Thousand Pillar Temple, Hanamkonda / Warangal.

The above photographs are of my family at the historic and marvelous 847 year old Veyyi Sthambhala Gudi that is 1000 Pillar Temple at Hanamkonda. Warangal and Hanamkonda are Twin Cities and the Thousand Pillar Temple is generally referred to be in Warangal. This magnificent temple was constructed by Rudra-I of the Kakatiya dynasty in 1163 AD. The Temple is one of the finest examples of Kakatiya architecture and an affirmation of the Vishwakarma Brahmins excellence in art and sculpture.

As the name suggests there are 1000 pillars at the Temple. These pillars are of many varieties and sizes and some of them are part of other pillars. The Mandapam in front of the Temple is of 400 pillars and this is presently undergoing reconstruction under the supervision of the Archeological Survey of India. There are 600 pillars in the main Temple and most of them are so closely sculpted that they form walls of the Temple. Between the Mandapam and the main Temple is the colossal structure of Nandi – the sacred Bull, Vahanam of Lord Shiva, beautifully carved out of a single piece of black basalt. The Temple is star shaped and on an elevated platform with beautiful sculpture within and all around it. The intricately carved pillars, perforated screens and rock cut elephants are a delight to see and experience. There are three Shrines inside the Temple.  The three shrines are of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Surya the Sun God.

Warangal is just 155 Kms. from Paradise in Secunderabad, with an excellent road all along the route. While at Hyderabad one should certainly visit Warangal and visit the ancient Bhadrakali Temple, 1000 Pillar Temple and the Ramappa Temple in Palampet, which is 74 Kms. from Warangal.

PS. You may zoom into the photographs to view some details of the sculpture.