Ramappa Temple, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Telangana

Ramappa Temple, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Telangana

Ramappa Temple also known as the Ramalingeswara temple, is located 77 km from Warangal, the ancient capital of the Kakatiya dynasty, 157 km from Hyderabad in the state of Telangana in southern India. It lies in a valley at Palampet village of Venkatapur Mandal, in erstwhile Mulug Taluq of Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, a tiny village long past its days of glory in the 13th and 14th centuries.An inscription in the temple dates it to the year 1213 AD and says it was built by a General Recherla Rudra, during the period of the Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva.

The temple is a Shivalaya, where Lord Ramalingeswara is worshipped. It stands majestically on a 6 ft high star-shaped platform. The hall in front of the sanctum has numerous carved pillars that have been positioned to create an effect that combines light and space wonderfully. The temple is named after the sculptor Ramappa, who built it, and is perhaps the only temple in India to be named after a craftsman who built it. History says that it took 40 years to build this temple.

The main structure is in a reddish sandstone, but the columns round the outside have large brackets of black basalt. These are carved as mythical animals or female dancers or musicians, and are “the masterpieces of Kakatiya art, notable for their delicate carving, sensuous postures and elongated bodies and heads”.

Architecture

Ramappa Temple is reached through a lush green path dotted with trees, which was once a royal garden. This temple although constructed with bricks that can float in water, is still standing strong. It is built on a 6 feet high platform. It is consisted of a garbhagriha, an antarala, and maha mandapam. The main entrance gate, which is built on the outer wall of the temple, is now in ruins. Hence, you will have to enter through the small gate. The main temple is surrounded by walls.

The walls of the temple showcase intricate carvings. Even pillars and ceilings have been engraved beautifully. The sanctum, surrounded by pradakshina path is dotted with a shikhara. In front of the temple is consisted of many pillars with exquisite carvings. As you enter the temple, you will see a Nandi mandapam with Nandi, facing the Lord Shiva shrine. Although the mandapa is no in good condition, the majestic statue of Nandi, divine vehicle of Lord Shiva, is undamaged and presents an impressive sight.

Inside the temple, Shivalingam has been placed at a height of 9 feet in garbhagriha. At the entrance of Garbhagriha, you will see carvings on the walls, showcasing various dance forms as well as different musical instruments. Its ceiling consist of carvings, depicting scenes from Hindu epics Ramayana, Shiva Purana and various other ancient texts. There are sub shrines in the temple, which are located on both the sides. Kameswara and Koteswara shrines are the two shrines built here; the Kameswara Temple is now in ruins. Ramappa temple, presents a classical style of structures as per which the main building of the temple is built on a raised platform so as to differentiate it. It is symbolic of the connection of Heaven and earth in the middle of both.

Ramalingeswara temple which is popularly known as Ramappa Temple dates back to 1213 AD. It was built during the reign of Kakatiya kingdom. Dedicated to Lord Ramalingeswara, it is the said to be the only temple in the country which is known by the name of its sculptor, whose name was Ramappa.

Now under the administration of The Archaeological Survey of India, this temple presents a glimpse into the glorious past of this region and Kakatiya rule. Presently, there are cottages by the side by the lake side along with restaurant, which have been set up by the tourism department. Hence, you can explore this beautiful temple and the surrounding areas at leisure and later spend a relaxed time at the cottages.

Legend / Local stories

As per a few inscriptions, Ramappa temple was built around 1213 AD. This temple was constructed during the rule of Kakatiya King Ganapati Deva. It was built under the supervision of Chief Commander Recherla Rudra. However the temple came to known by the name its sculptor Ramappa.

This temple is considered to be one of best among the medieval temples of South India. In spite of being decades old and witnessing various invasions and wars over the course of time, Ramappa Temple still stands majestically, creating a mesmerising impression on every visitor.

Photo Gallery

How to Reach:

Ramappa temple is located in Palampet, Venkatapur mandal which is 19 km far from Mulugu Mandal (around 70 km off Warangal Town). It is 6 km away from Kota Gullu where another Shiva temple is located. Tourists from Hyderabad can reach to Ramappa Temple via Hanamkonda.

Contact Details

Official Address