Siddeshwara Temple Hanamkonda – one of the few Paschimdwara Mukha temples of India
The city of Hanamkonda, one of the Tri-Cities of Warangal houses some fascinating temples dedicated to Lord Shiva like the Siddheshwara Temple. Known to be a Paschimdwara Mukha Temple (which means the temple with its entrance gate facing west) the Siddheswara temple is famous for the exquisite architecture displayed on its walls and pillars. It’s uniqueness also lies in the fact that it is one of the few Paschimdwara Mukha temples existing in the country today.
Located in serene and peaceful surroundings, the Siddheshwara temple was built in the 3rd century AD. The carvings engraved on the walls indicate a strong resemblance to the Chalukyan style of architecture.
One of the major attractions of the temple is the observance of the popular event of Maha Shivaratri. The event is a major festival when devotees throng the temple to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva. The festival occurs every year on the 14th night of the New moon in the month of Phalgun. This corresponds to February-March in the Gregorian calendar. During this time the temple is decorated with lights and flowers and dons a regal look. The whole area lights up with the joy of celebrations.
The Siddheswara stands tall and has a majestic appearance. Its real beauty lies in its pillars which are adorned with intricate carvings. The uniqueness of the temple lies in these intricate designs which are scattered liberally throughout the temple. It is owing to these marvels that the Siddhewara Temple is regarded as one of the most beautiful temples of Warangal.
The temple is open to devotees throughout the year. Also there is no entrance fee charged from devotees. Set in the idyllic locales of the Hanamkonda hills, the temple fills the mind with peace and tranquility. It provides visitors with the right excuse to surrender to the almighty.
The Siddheswara Temple is located at a distance of 4 kms from Warangal City and can be easily accessed by road. Also Warangal and Kazipet are the railway stations in the area, all trains stop here enroute to different parts of the country. The temple therefore is accessible by train from various locations as well. Siddeshwara Temple Hanamkonda is 3 kms far from the famous Kakatiya’s Thousand Pillar Temple.
Despite being located in idyllic surroundings, the temple precincts are not too remote. It is conveniently located within a stone’s throw of several markets and shopping areas like Yellamma Bazaar, Battala Bazaar, Green Square Plaza and the Nirmala Mall. Visitors are able to purchase their everyday needs and more from these shopping joints. This ensures that the temple stays close to urban necessities yet at the same time retains its surreal charm.
Travel itineraries in the Indian context have often been defined by religion. Pilgrimages and shrines have therefore often been regarded as popular tourist destinations. However, the Siddheswara Temple has established its presence in history not only owing to its religious nature but also as a great study in architectural styles. The attention to detail in each of its intricate carvings is truly a marvel in itself and deserves to be appreciated. Its attraction therefore reaches a wider audience and is not constrained by being defined as a religious site. Siddeshwara Temple is one of the oldest temples of Telangana and Warangal and now it has become an important tourist destination of Warangal.
Special Attractions of Siddeshwara Temple Hanamkonda:
– Maha Shivaratri festival
– Pillar Carvings
Siddeshwara Temple Hanamkonda Timings: Daily 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Distance to Siddeshwara Temple Hanamkonda:
-150 kms from MGBS Hyderabad
-79 Kms from Karimnagar Bus Station
How to Reach:
– Warangal City is connected with good Train facility and bus facilities.
– There are many buses from Hyderabad to Hanamakonda. Once in every 15 minutes, there is a bus to Hanamkonda from MGBS Bus stop.
– Kazipet Railway Station is one of the major junctions which is very well connected with Hyderabad is 7 kms far from Hanamkonda. Plenty of sharing autos run between Kazipet and Hanamkonda at a reasonable price.
– Nearest Airport is Hyderabad Airport
Where to Stay: There are plenty of good hotels in Warngal
– Ashoka Hotel – Ph: 0870-2577955, 2578491
– City Grand – Ph: 0870-2454587
– Landmark HOtel – 0870-254633
– Suprabha Hotel – Ph: 0870-2573888, 2574888
– Ratna Hotel – Ph:0870-2500645
Nearby Attractions:
– Bhadrakali Temple
– Kakatiya Musical garden
– Warangal Fort
– Thousand Pillar Temple
Contact Numbers:
Warangal Tourism Office Contact Number: 0870-2459201
State Tourism Department – 040-23450444
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