Ramappa Temple - UNESCO World Heritage Site in India

Warangal on the Deccan Plateau is popular for its classic and splendid Kakatiya art. The Ramalingeswara Temple, which is situated in Warangal, commonly known as the Ramappa Temple, is one such wonderful work of art that stands as a testament to the Kakatiya dynasty of the royal family.

The temple was named Ramappa after its main sculptor, and it is probably the only temple in the country known by its sculptor's name.

Ramappa Temple History

After being released from the rule of the Chalukyan dynasty, the Kakatiya dynasty ruled most of central India to the east coast in the 12th and 14th centuries. The medieval Deccan Ramappa Temple was built in 1213 AD in what was known as Ranakude in the province of Atukuru (and is now Palampet village in Mulug Taluq, Warangal), with the support of the Kakatiya ruler Kakati Ganapatideva, under the authority of his commander-in-chief Rudra Samani. Outside the temple is a Telugu inscription describing said commander-in-chief.

Ramappa Temple - Overview

The exquisite craftsmanship of the Ramappa temple is carved from one of the most uncommon and valuable stones, black basalt. The Ramappa temple flaunts its walls and pillars made out of this amazing black basalt and sandstone. Another notable feature of this temple is that it is made of bricks which are incredibly light in weight and form a good impression of the structure. The temple took nearly 40 years to complete.

The Ramappa Temple is said to be the brightest star among the various medieval temples in the Indian Deccan region. You arrive at the temple through the Royal Gardens, which is now a lawn with paved paths of trees. Gorgeous sculptures line the walls, pillars, and ceiling of the temple.

The temple is supported by a 6-foot-high platform with a cruciform plan. The temple room is covered with a Shikharam (the Telugu word for apex) and encircled by Pradakshinapatha ("exquisite temple carvings"). There is a Nandi Mandapam ("pavilion") at the entrance of the temple with a majestic Nandi Vigraham ("statue of the sacred bull Nandi") standing on it.

The Ramappa Temple UNESCO World Heritage Site in India is revered for and known for its beauty, mesmerizing spiritual ambience, and regal construction. The UNESCO label breathes new life into this exquisite exhibition of medieval architecture and technology.

The Ramappa Temple and the region surrounding it is the perfect place for those who admire the brilliance of architecture and enjoy taking in the panoramic view of true scenic beauty.

FAQs on Ramappa Temple

Q.1. How far is the Ramappa Temple UNESCO World Heritage Site India from Warangal?

The Ramappa Temple is about 70 km from the city of Warangal and is easily accessible by road.

Q.2. Who called the Ramappa Temple "the brightest star in the galaxy of the Deccan Temple in the Middle Ages"?

Marco Polo, an Italian merchant and explorer, described the Ramappa Temple as "the brightest star in the galaxy of the medieval Deccan Temple."

Q.3. When was the Ramappa Temple registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

The nomination was reviewed and approved at the 44th World Heritage Committee meeting in Fuzhou in 2020. They finally put the temple on the listing in 2021.