Explore the rich heritage of the state

For enthusiasts of history and heritage, Telangana offers a treasure trove of remarkable sites. Among these, Golkonda Fort stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Qutub Shahi kings. Its ruins of palaces and mosques paint a vivid picture of its former glory. Warangal Fort, once the stronghold of the Kakatiya dynasty and Musunuri Nayakas in Warangal District, showcases exceptional stone architecture with gracefully carved arches and pillars, exemplifying the skilled craftsmanship of its era. In Hyderabad, the iconic Charminar, now under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), holds historical significance, believed to have been built in the 1500s to mark the end of a devastating plague.

At the base of Hanamkonda hill in Warangal lies the Thousand Pillar Temple, dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Surya, renowned for its exquisite temple architecture featuring beautifully carved pillars, rock-cut elephants, and a carved Nandi. Finally, the Ramappa Temple, originally named Ramalingeswara Temple but popularly known as Ramappa Temple, is a unique architectural gem. Built in 1213 AD by the skilled sculptor Ramappa during the Kakatiya kingdom's reign, it's notably the only temple in India named after its craftsman rather than a deity. These heritage sites offer a captivating journey through Telangana's rich history and architectural splendour.

Behold the beauty of spiritual sites

Telangana is a land rich in cultural heritage. It boasts spiritual sites that beckon travellers seeking a glimpse into its profound spirituality. Among these, the thousand-pillared marvel of Warangal's Rudreswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Surya, stands as a testament to extraordinary architectural craftsmanship. The serene Ramappa Temple, unique in that it derives its name from its craftsman, Ramappa, showcases stunning Kakatiya architecture, while the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad encapsulates the essence of historical grandeur. Golkonda Fort, once the stronghold of the Qutub Shahi kings, invites exploration of its majestic ruins and fascinating history. These spiritual gems offer not only a sense of divinity but also a journey through time, making Telangana an enticing destination for those in search of both cultural depth and architectural marvels.

The land of first female ruler

The history of Telangana dates back nearly two millennia, with deep-rooted connections to significant empires such as the Satavahanas, Kakatiyas, Ikshvakus, Qutb Shahis, and Asif Jahis. The Satavahanas ascended to prominence following the decline of the Mauryan empire during the 3rd century BC. After the decline of the Satavahanas, Telangana experienced several centuries of governance by various small rulers before the rise of the Kakatiyas. This dynasty holds the distinction of having the first female ruler in the subcontinent, Rani Rudrama Devi. The state faced numerous invasions during this period, culminating in the defeat of Prataprudra by Malik Kafur in 1323 and subsequent fragmentation for the next 150 years.

Celebrations of diversity and traditions

Telangana is a diverse land of various religions, therefore festivals here unfold with vibrant celebrations. Bathukamma, a unique Telangana tradition, forms part of the Dusshera festivities, typically falling in September or October following the lunar calendar. This Hindu festival is a heartfelt tribute to Maha Gauri Devi, the goddess of womanhood, affectionately referred to as 'Bathukamma,' which translates to 'Mother Goddess comes alive' in Telugu.

Bonalu, another significant festival is celebrated during June or July and revolves around the worship of Goddess Maa Kali. Devotees express their gratitude to the goddess for granting their wishes, culminating in a lavish family feast. The sacrificial offering, often comprising goat or chicken meat, is made ceremoniously, and it holds a sacred place in the celebration. The offering of alcohol is also customary in this festival. Ramzan takes centre stage as the main festival for Muslims in Telangana, uniting communities in joyful observance. Additionally, the grand scale celebration of Moharram, witnesses active participation from both Hindus and Muslims, reflecting the spirit of unity and harmony in the region.

A land of art & culture

Telangana is renowned for its rich artistic heritage and ancient dance traditions. Given the region's status as a major cotton producer, textile-based arts, and crafts flourish across the state. Batik paintings, renowned for their wax-resist dyeing technique, bring to life traditional motifs, captivating the hearts of art enthusiasts. The vibrant hues and intricate designs of Pochampalli handlooms make them a cherished choice among women seeking unique and traditional attire. Narayanapet handlooms stand as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and a vibrant colour palette, while Gadwal handlooms weave yet another colorful chapter in Telangana's textile artistry.

Nirmal painting and Nirmal toys have been cherished throughout India since the 14th century, known for their beautifully crafted soft wooden toys and paintings adorned with a vibrant array of colours. Additionally, artisans have skilfully applied Nirmal paintings to craft large boxes, bowls, screens, and other specific items.

The dance forms of Telangana are both unique and captivating to behold. Perini Thandavam stands out as one of the most revered traditional art forms in Telangana. This dance style originated during the Kakatiya Dynasty, where it was performed by male warriors as a prelude to battle in honour of Lord Shiva. Gusadi, Kuchipidi, and Lambadi are other popular traditional dance forms that showcase the state's rich cultural heritage. Bhamakalpam and Gollakalapam are deeply rooted in the state's dance traditions. Additionally, the Gonds of Northern Hyderabad perform Danndaria, a captivating dance form that they claim is a part of their heritage as descendants of the Pandavas, the legendary heroes of the Indian epic Mahabharata.

Explore the scenic landscape of the state

Telangana, located in the southern part of India, is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty that entices tourists from all over the world. The state is dotted with lush green forests, sparkling lakes, majestic hills, and sprawling waterfalls, offering a visual feast to its visitors. The picturesque countryside, adorned with golden fields of paddy, swaying palm trees, and vibrant wildflowers, is a sight to behold. From the tranquil Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary to the serene Laknavaram Lake and the awe-inspiring hills of Warangal, Telangana boasts of natural wonders that leave visitors spellbound. Come and immerse yourself in the lap of nature in Telangana and experience a slice of paradise on earth.

Savour the culinary delights

Hyderabad is renowned for its unique and diverse culinary traditions. Dum Ka Biryani, Qubani Ka Meetha, special Hyderabadi biryani, Irani Chai, Sakinaalu, and Sarva Pindi are some of the delectable specialties. The heartlands of Telangana offer an even more immersive culinary experience, with local flavours and spices infusing these dishes with distinctive character. Hyderabadi Haleem, particularly, is a revered dish enjoyed both within the region and beyond, with some of the city's leading brands exporting this lip-smacking non-vegetarian delight. Haleem has even earned the prestigious Geographical Indicator (GI) tag.

Telangana's culinary artistry is celebrated for its expert blending of a variety of spices, including jaggery, rice flour, wheat flour, maida, chilies, dal, and other aromatic condiments. Hyderabad takes pride in its reputation as a hub for one-of-a-kind culinary creations, where Mughlai cuisine seamlessly mingles with Nawabi delicacies, all harmoniously intertwined with the delicious offerings of Telangana and Andhra brought by migrants. Indeed, the capital city represents a beautiful convergence of diverse culinary traditions.