Earthquake-proof architecture, Floating Bricks – Amazing Ramappa Temples

The Ramappa group of temples, which were constructed in 1213 CE, was commissioned by Recharla Rudra, who was the army head under king Ganapatideva of the Kakatiya dynasty. The temples were built around a large artificial lake, which was constructed to serve as water resources for irrigation. The Kakatiyas were well known for building many such tanks, which changed vast areas of their arid kingdom (modern Telangana and Andhra Pradesh) into fertile tracts, thus showing administrative ingenuity and governing skills of this dynasty.

This complex shows another unusual feature: it is named after the main architect Ramappa Stapathi and is among the rare monuments that honour its designer. The temple complex consists of Rudreswara temple (dedicated to Shiva) which is the main temple and survives wholly; a damaged Nandi mandapa; two subsidiary temples Kateswara (partly damaged) and Kameswara (in ruins), an inscription pillar, and a Dharamsala. A Prakara or wall runs around the entire temple complex.

The special feature of the Ramapada temples is that the red sandstone built in front of the temple objects was made of bricks. These bricks are made up of special technology, they are light and long: when these bricks fall into the water, they float! An architectural ingenuity of 13th century India!

Kakatiyan rule was largely synonymous with prosperity and well being of the common people, widespread agrarian developments, and strong trade connections with foreign countries. Today 900 years down the line when we see joy and happiness resonating from the sculptures in this temple, we observe historical documentation, a look into a society where once lives were filled with prosperity and ensuing happiness.

How to reach: Palampet can be reached both from Warangal (77 km away) and Hyderabad (157 km away). The best way to travel would be to rent a car, though local conveyances are available too.

Time to visit: The best time to visit would be the cooler months of December and January.