Bhadrakali Temple (Warangal)

Overview data: 0% complete

Heritage Overview

Temple

Located atop a hillock between Warangal and Hanamkonda in Telangana, the Bhadrakali Temple is dedicated to the fierce goddess Bhadrakali. Believed to have been built during the Chalukya period, it showcases their architectural style and features a unique stone image of the deity with eight arms holding various weapons. The temple, situated near the scenic Bhadrakali Lake, is an important pilgrimage site in the region, attracting devotees seeking the blessings of the powerful goddess, especially during Navaratri festivals.

Location

Warangal, Telangana, India(Telangana)

Year Built

625

Visit Information

Visiting Hours

5:30 AM - 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Daily.

Entry Fee

Free entry.

Website

https://www.bhadrakalitemple.in/

Heritage Status

Important historical temple, managed by Endowments Dept./Trust.

Preservation Status

Fair to Good, ongoing upkeep for active historical temple.

Historical Context

Historical evidence suggests Chalukyan origins (Pulakeshin II era, c. 625 CE), making it one of the oldest Bhadrakali temples. Its zenith was under the Kakatiyas (11th-14th C), particularly Ganapatideva who constructed the large Bhadrakali Lake adjacent to it, integrating water management with sacred geography. As Kuladevi of the Kakatiyas, it held immense political and religious significance. The temple likely suffered damage during Alauddin Khilji's Deccan campaigns (Malik Kafur) and later Ulugh Khan's conquest of Warangal (1323), followed by periods of neglect before eventual revival.

Archaeological Survey

Department of Heritage, Telangana (likely). Possibly ASI involvement in regional context.

Location Map

Architectural Details

Chalukya Influence

Chalukya Period

Built by

Chalukyas of Vengi (possibly 7th century), Kakatiya dynasty (renovations/patronage)

Materials

Granite, Sandstone

Featured Image

Excavation Details

No major excavations reported at the temple site itself. Archaeological context derived from association with nearby Warangal Fort (Kakatiya capital). Studies focus on its history (built ~625 CE by Chalukyas, prominent under Kakatiyas) and architecture. Possible lakeside findings nearby.

Restoration Work

Regular upkeep by temple authorities; potential state conservation involvement.

Patronage

Chalukyas of Vengi, Kakatiya dynasty

Construction Technique

Stone masonry, Rock-cut elements (cave potential)

Architectural Influences

2 items

Building Techniques

Lake-side construction, Square sanctum, Pillared mandapa, Potential rock-cut techniques

Coordinates

18.006600, 79.605000

Accessibility Info

{"notes":"Temple generally accessible at ground level. Lakefront area involves walking. Steps might exist for specific viewpoints or shrines.","restrooms":"Available, likely basic","wheelchair_accessible":"Partial (main temple area likely accessible)"}

Visitor Facilities

5 items

Best Visit Times

October to March offers pleasant weather. Evenings provide a cooler experience near the lake. Visiting during Navaratri allows participation in major festivities but expect larger crowds. Mornings are generally quieter for darshan.

Seasonal Events

3 items

Visitor Restrictions

Modest Indian attire recommended. Remove footwear before entering the temple premises. Photography might be restricted inside the main sanctum. Respect the lakeside environment; follow boating rules if applicable. General temple decorum is expected.

View Count

Is Featured

Yes

Is Published

Yes

Completion Score

Completion Status

in-progress

Created By

68408625-44a5-46e3-b746-71290aac1079

Created At

2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00

Updated At

2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00

Inheritage Foundation

Bhadrakali Temple (Warangal)