Thousand Pillar temple is in the Warangal district of Telangana. The architecture of the Temple illustrates the Kakatiyan culture of the 12th century. The Temple is precisely located on the Warangal – Hanumkonda highway. It is 150 kilometres away from Hyderabad city. The Temple was built in the year 1163 AD by King Rudra Devi. Thousand Pillar Temple timings are from 5 am to 9 pm.
Thousand Pillar Temple is the main attraction of Hanumakonda. It looks like a star with three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Surya, and it is on a one-meter high Hanumakonda Hills constructed temple platform.
Thousand Pillar Temple History:
Contents
- 1 Thousand Pillar Temple History:
- 1.0.1 Thousand Pillar Temple Architecture:
- 1.0.2 Significance of Thousand Pillar Temple:
- 1.0.3 Thousand Pillar Temple Timings:
- 1.0.4 Best time to visit Temple:
- 1.0.5 Thousand Pillar Temple Entry Fee:
- 1.0.6 Festivals Celebrated at Thousand Pillar Temple:
- 1.0.7 Thousand Pillar Temple Dress Code:
- 1.0.8 Tourist places near Thousand Pillar Temple:
- 1.0.9 Hotels near Thousand Pillar Temple:
- 1.0.10 Thousand Pillar Temple Address & Contact Number:
- 1.0.11 How to reach Thousand Pillar Temple:
- 1.0.12 FAQs:
- 1.1 Why should people visit Pillar Temple?
- 1.2 Who destroyed the 1000 Pillar Temple?
- 1.3 When was the Temple built?
- 1.4 Who built the Pillar temple?
- 1.5 In which architectural style was the Pillar Temple built?
- 1.6 Is the Temple open to all visitors?
Legends surrounded the Thousand Pillar Temple, adding to its mystique and historical significance. One prominent legend associated with the Temple is that it was constructed by a Kakatiya king named Rudra Deva as an offering to his coach, Swayambhu Linga.
According to the mythology, the king had a dream where he was advised by Lord Shiva to construct a temple with a thousand pillars, each representing a lingam (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva).
In obedience to the divine command, King Rudra Deva initiated the construction of the Temple, which was completed under the supervision of his minister, Amar Singh. Another popular legend relates to the Temple’s architecture and craftsmanship.
It was believed that the artisans who worked at the Temple could carve such intricate and detailed sculptures because they had a unique technique of melting and combining metals, such as brass and gold, to create a special alloy. This alloy was said to have been used in the construction of the pillars, resulting in their exceptional beauty and durability.
Thousand Pillar Temple Architecture:
The temple architecture was characterized by a star-shaped platform and around a thousand intricately carved pillars. The Temple combines Chalukyan, Dravidian, and Nagara architectural styles. It houses three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Surya, along with a central lingam in the main shrine.
The temple complex includes a grand entrance, a Nandi statue, and smaller shrines adorned with sculptures of Hindu deities. The detailed carvings and sculptures depict mythological figures and display the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans. The Temple is renowned for its historical and architectural significance, attracting visitors who appreciate its beauty and religious importance.
Significance of Thousand Pillar Temple:
It takes 3 hrs from Hyderabad to reach the Temple in Warangal, the capital of Andhra Pradesh, in the 11th and 12th centuries. It is a city with scintillating lakes, spectacular wildlife and beautiful temples. Kakatiyas ruled it for over 200 years, and the architecture was excellent.
The Temple became the most famous Temple built by King Rudra Dev in 1163 AD. All the pillars are beautifully carved to represent Chalukyan architecture. A thousand Pillars are dedicated to three lords: Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. The massive statue of Nandi was placed at the entrance.
Thousand Pillar Temple Timings:
The temple timings are 06:00 am to 08:00 pm.
| Days | Timings |
| Monday | 6 am to 8 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am to 8 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am to 8 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am to 8 pm |
| Friday | 6 am to 8 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am to 8 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am to 8 pm |
Best time to visit Temple:
The Thousand Pillar Temple is a great example of Kakatiyan architecture. Splendidly carved pillars, unique icons, rock-cut elephants and perforated screens are worth watching. October to March is the best time to visit the Temple.
Thousand Pillar Temple Entry Fee:
The Temple does not take even a single rupee to the visitors who wish to seek the blessings of the lord.
Festivals Celebrated at Thousand Pillar Temple:
The Thousand Pillar Temple celebrates several festivals yearly, attracting many devotees and visitors. Some of the prominent festivals observed at the Temple include:
Mahashivaratri:
It is one of the main significant festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated enthusiastically at the Temple.
Karthika Masam:
It is a month-long festival celebrated during the auspicious month of Karthika (November-December).
Vinayaka Chaturthi:
This festival honours Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity.
Diwali:
The festival of celebration and lights, Diwali, is celebrated joyfully and enthusiastically at the Temple.
Ugadi:
Ugadi marks the Telugu New Year and is enthusiastically celebrated at the Thousand Pillar Temple.
These festivals bring the Temple to life with vibrant decorations, devotional music, and a festive atmosphere.
Thousand Pillar Temple Dress Code:
Modest attire was recommended when visiting the Temple. Visitors must dress conservatively, covering their shoulders and legs. Shorts, Sleeveless tops, and skirts above the knee may not be permitted. It’s best to wear comfortable shoes as the temple grounds require walking.
Tourist places near Thousand Pillar Temple:
- Ramappa Temple
- Sri Bhadrakali Devastanam
- Laknavaram Cheruvu
- Ekashila Park
- Kush Mahal
- Bogatha Waterfalls
- children’s park
- Mini Zoo Warangal
- ISKCON Temple
Hotels near Thousand Pillar Temple:
- Hotel Thousand Pillars
- Lahospin Hotel
- Suprabha Hotel
- Flagship Hotel Bluemoon
- Hotel Grand Inn
- V Grand
- Hotel Sushmitha Inn
- Sri Laxmi Lodge
- Hotel prime Inn
Thousand Pillar Temple Address & Contact Number:
- Thousand Pillar Temple, Hanamkonda, Warangal, Telangana, India.
- Contact Number: 0984 9014 974
How to reach Thousand Pillar Temple:
By Road:
The Warangal Bus Station is the nearest bus stand to the Temple in Hanamkonda, Telangana.
By Rail:
Warangal Railway Station is the closest railway station to the Temple.
By Air:
The nearest airport to the Temple is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, Telangana.
FAQs:
Why should people visit Pillar Temple?
Visiting this Temple is a must to witness India’s rich heritage and culture. Situated in the Hanamkonda region in Warangal City, this Temple is an important pilgrimage centre, where people of all faiths from every corner of the country visit to pay their homage.
Who destroyed the 1000 Pillar Temple?
The Tughlaq dynasty of Turkic origin destroyed the Temple during their invasion of South India.
When was the Temple built?
In the 12th century, the Temple was built.
Who built the Pillar temple?
Rudreshwara Swamy Temple is another name for the Temple. In 1163 AD, Rudra Deva constructed the Temple.
In which architectural style was the Pillar Temple built?
Rudradeva constructed the Pillared Temple. It was built in the Chalukyan architectural style.
Is the Temple open to all visitors?
Yes, the Temple is open to all visitors, irrespective of their religious beliefs.
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