GREATER WARANGAL SMART CITY CORPORATION LIMITED

WARANGAL, TELANGANA

SITUATION ANALYSIS:
HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
WARANGAL, TELANGANA

LEA Associates South Asia Pvt. Ltd., India

in consortium with
PricewaterhouseCoopers Pvt Ltd., India

November 2018

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CANADA | INDIA | AFRICA | MIDDLE EAST

 HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
Warangal, Telangana

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF TABLES...................................................................................................................................................... ii
LIST OF FIGURES.................................................................................................................................................... ii
ACRONYMS.......................................................................................................................................................... iii
1 Project Background................................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................................................4
1.2 History.....................................................................................................................................................5
1.3 Need for the project................................................................................................................................5
1.4 Intent of the report..................................................................................................................................7
1.5 Report Structure......................................................................................................................................7
2 ABOUT WARANGAL.................................................................................................................................. 8
2.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................................................8
2.2 DEMOGRAPHY.........................................................................................................................................8
2.3 LOCATION & REGIONAL SETTING............................................................................................................8
2.3.1 LINKAGES & CONNECTIVITY......................................................................................................9
2.3.2 CLIMATE & GEOLOGY................................................................................................................9
2.3.3 ECONOMY..................................................................................................................................9
2.3.4 PHYSICAL SETTING...................................................................................................................10
2.3.5 CULTURAL SETTING.................................................................................................................10
2.4 TOURISM IN WARANGAL......................................................................................................................11
3 Existing Situation Analysis....................................................................................................................... 12
3.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................................................12
3.2 Land use.................................................................................................................................................12
3.3 Locational Advantages..........................................................................................................................13
3.3.1 Bhadrakali Temple & Lake.......................................................................................................14
3.3.2 Padmakshi Temple & Pond.....................................................................................................14
3.3.3 Kakatiya Musical Garden.........................................................................................................14
3.3.4 Vana Vigyan.............................................................................................................................14
3.4 Site Features..........................................................................................................................................14
3.4.1 Approach Road/ Connectivity.................................................................................................14
3.4.2 Rock Carvings..........................................................................................................................15
3.4.3 Fort Remains...........................................................................................................................16
3.4.4 Stair-case.................................................................................................................................16
3.4.5 Natural Features......................................................................................................................16
3.4.6 View Points..............................................................................................................................18
3.4.7 Physical Infrastructure at Site.................................................................................................19
3.4.8 Social Infrastructure at Site.....................................................................................................19
3.4.9 Environment Condition...........................................................................................................20
4 Site Investigation & Consultantion Process.............................................................................................. 21
4.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................................................21
4.2 Field Observation...................................................................................................................................21
4.3 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION.............................................................................................................21

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 HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
Warangal, Telangana

5 Conclusion and way forward................................................................................................................... 23

5.1 Challenges.............................................................................................................................................23
5.2 WAY FORWARD.....................................................................................................................................23

LIST OF TABLES

Table 2-1: Population Details of Warangal City.......................................................................................................8

Table 2-2: Tourist Growth Rate in Warangal........................................................................................................11
Table 2-3: Projected tourists in Warangal for the year 2041.................................................................................11
Table 3-1: Existing Physical Infrastructure, Bhadrakali Lake..................................................................................19
Table 3-2: Existing Social Infrastructure, Bhadrakali Lake....................................................................................20
Table 3-3: Existing Environment condition, Bhadrakali Lake.................................................................................20

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1-1: Location of Adventure Trail Route within ABD Area, Hanamkonda Hill............................................4
Figure 1-2: Relics of Jain Tirthankara in Hanamkonda Hill....................................................................................5
Figure 1-3: Adventure Trail in Hanamkonda Hill (Phase-I)....................................................................................6
Figure 3-1: View of Hanamkonda Hill...................................................................................................................12
Figure 3-1: Land use showing Hanamkonda Hill and its surrounding area (2041).............................................13
Figure 3-2: Hanamkonda Hill and its surrounding tourist spots..........................................................................14
Figure 3-3: Jain Tirthankaras Sculptures in Hanamkonda Hill.............................................................................15
Figure 3-4: Fort wall stretch on Hanamkonda Hill...............................................................................................16
Figure 3-5: Vertical rock cut staircase in Hanamkonda Hill.................................................................................16
Figure 3-6: Granite Block of Hanamkonda Hill & Surrounding............................................................................17
Figure 3-7: Foothills of Hanamkonda with thorny bushes...................................................................................18
Figure 3-8: City views from Hanamkonda Hill......................................................................................................18
Figure 3-9: Lake views from Hanamkonda Hill.....................................................................................................19
Figure 4-1: Contour Map, SOI Sheet and Satellite Imagery of Hanamkonda Hill...............................................21

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 HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
Warangal, Telangana

ACRONYMS

ABD : Area Based Development

ASI : Archaeological Survey of India
BIS : Bureau of Indian Standard
CBO : Community Based Organization
CPCB : Central Pollution Control Board
DPR : Detailed Project Report
FTL : Full Tank Level
GoI : Government of India
GWMC : Greater Warangal Municipal Corporation
GWSCCL : Greater Warangal Smart City Corporation Limited
HRIDAY : Heritage Development and Augmentation Yojna
ICT : Information and Communication Technology
INR : Indian Rupees
KUDA : Kakatiya Urban Development Authority
LASA : LEA Associates South Asia Pvt. Ltd.
NCZ : No Construction Zone
NGO : Non - Governmental Organization
PCB : Pollution Control Board
PMC : Project Management Consultancy
PPP : Public-Private Partnership
PWC : PricewaterhouseCoopers Pvt. Ltd.
PWD : Public Works Department
SCP : Smart City Proposal
SOI : Survey of India
STPI : Software Technology Park of India
TSPCB : Telangana State Pollution Control Board
TSRTC : Telangana State Road Transport Corporation
ULB : Urban Local Body

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 HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
Warangal, Telangana

1 PROJECT BACKGROUND
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The Government of India has launched an ambitious "Smart Cities Mission" to promote cities that
provide core infrastructure and a good quality of life to its citizens with a clean and sustainable
environment by application of ‘Smart Solutions’. In this regard Warangal, the second largest city of
Telangana state was chosen as one of the 100 cities to participate in the Smart City Challenge.
Subsequently, the city was selected in the Fast Track Stage towards implementation the Smart City
Proposals identified in the challenge stage.
The present assignment is a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) for Warangal Smart City
Project initiated by the Greater Warangal Smart City Corporation Limited (GWSCCL), referred
hereafter as the Client Agency for designing, developing, managing and implementing this project.
Warangal aspires to be the cultural capital of Telangana and will continue to be the centre of
heritage and cultural tourism, which Telangana people proudly identify. The vision for the city is “to
transform Warangal into an economic hub in Telangana with a focus on tourism and heritage and
to make it a livable, clean, green, inclusive, modern, safe and citizen friendly and well governed
city”.
Smart City Proposals are divided into Area Based Development (ABD) and Pan City proposals.
Warangal’s ABD proposals envisage retrofitting and redeveloping 1,583 acres of Core Area of
Warangal and transform it into a light-house for the city and to show case as a smart neighborhood
by improving lively hood of nearly 39,187 residents residing within this area. This is depicted in
Figure 1 -1.

Figure 1-1: Location of Adventure Trail Route within ABD Area, Hanamkonda Hill.

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 HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
Warangal, Telangana

One of the proposals under Smart City Mission comprises Heritage Walk and Adventure Trail which
envisions better connectivity, safe, functional and aesthetically pleasing nature trails in Hanamkonda
Hill with appropriate utilities, improved and planned landscaping and softscaping elements.

1.2 HISTORY
Based on archaeological
evidences, it has been established
that Hanamkonda and its
surrounding was once thrived as
seats of Jain learning. According
to the Warangal Kaifiyat (local
records), Jains of Vengi region
migrated to Hanamkonda on
account of attacks against them.
The Kakatiya Prola-II had
patronised Jainism.

The images of Jain Gurus

Parsvanatha, Vardhamana
Mahaveera have been discovered
in the hillocks. They also found
out stone images of Kubera and
Chowisa (24) Teerthankara in Figure 1-2: Relics of Jain Tirthankara in Hanamkonda Hill.
Hanamkonda Hill. There is a Jain
inscription with Betana and Mylama images along Mahavira’s image. The statue was discovered on
the north-west side of the hillock overlooking Rajput Street given in Error: Reference source not
found.

The rock carvings believed to be of 4 th and 5th century suggests that Jainism has its prominence in
Hanamkonda region. The presence of the Jain carvings and caves implies that the place was once a
‘Jaina aramam’ or a place of meditation and education. The relics have evidently lost its original
colour and form over the years. Also, ‘Thristhala Chakram’ can be seen above the head of some of
the statues.

1.3 NEED FOR THE PROJECT

The Hanamkonda Hill (Aggaliahgutta) forms part of the Bhadrakali Temple and Lake Precinct and
houses Mahavir Sculptures and relics on the Rocks and a small stretch of fortified wall. The hill
provides breathtaking views of the Bhadrakali Lake with panoramic view of the city.

The Adventure Trail project involves a direct connectivity between the Bhadrakali and Padmakshi
temples across the Bhadrakali main weir and the Hanamkonda hill. Two routes are planned, one
along the foothill and the other over the hilltop. The routes have been identified through multiple
site visits, videography survey and consultations with KUDA and GWMC officials. A 150m long
pedestrian suspension bridge is also planned across the Bhadrakali main weir as part of this project.

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 HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
Warangal, Telangana

Alignments of the two stretches stated above are as follows:

i) Along Hanamkonda foothill: Padmakshi Temple road - Kalbhairav temple – southern foot hill of
Aggaliahgutta - Hanuman temple on Bhadrakali Lake side main weir
ii) Along Hanamkonda hilltop: Padmakshi temple Road - Jain statue - ridge of Aggaliahgutta -
Hanuman temple on Bhadrakali Lake side

Figure 1-3: Adventure Trail in Hanamkonda Hill (Phase-I).

The Project envisions safe, functional and aesthetically pleasing adventure trail with picturesque
view of the surroundings. The project study elements are identified through consultations with local
residents, elected representatives and concerned officials of GWSCCL. The project has been phased
into two parts; Phase I is dealt in the present report; as given in Figure 1 -3.

The major features identified for developing heritage walk and adventure trails are the following:

 Suspension bridge: 1.5m wide footpath with 1.2m height hand rail joining Bhadrakali temple side
bund and Aggaliagutta foot hill across the Bhadrakali lake main weir;
 Natural rock cutting and PCC pathways;
 Pavilion on the hill top;
 Viewpoints with railings;
 Public Utilities;
 Hard and Soft Landscape;
 Statues and Effigies;
 Solar lighting.
Being located in the centre of the city, the development has locational as well as historical
significance; and can be accessed from all walks of life. It will encourage eco-tourism prospects in the
region.

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 HERITAGE WALK & ADVENTURE TRAIL,
Warangal, Telangana

1.4 INTENT OF THE REPORT

The present report ‘Situation Analysis: Heritage Walk and Adventure Trail’ is the first deliverable of
the ‘Detailed Project Preparation Report’ which presents the existing situation of the natural trail,
focussing on the issues/ challenges and proposing relevant solutions or strategies. The detailed
structure of the report are discussed below.

1.5 REPORT STRUCTURE

The report has been compiled in the following chapters as mentioned below.

CHAPTER 1: PROJECT BACKGROUND

This chapter introduces the Project providing brief background of the Project, discussing intent and
structure of the Report.

CHAPTER 2: ABOUT WARANGAL

This chapter involves the comprehensive analysis of the city with Demography, Linkages and
Connectivity, Climate, Economy, Physical setting, Cultural setting and Tourism aspects in Warangal.

CHAPTER 3: EXISTING SITUATION ANALYSIS

This chapter brings in front the existing situation of the project area and its surroundings.
Introduction to site, along with issues, opportunities and observations are highlighted here.

CHAPTER 4: SITE INVESTIGATION & CONSULTATION PROCESS

The chapter brings in front various field observations and initiations, different types of surveys
carried out for detailed understanding of site. Consultation with various officials/ organization.

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND WAY FORWARD

The report concludes with key observations and challenges as discussed in Chapter-2 Chapter-3 and
Chapter-4, based on the site assessment.

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 2 ABOUT WARANGAL
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Warangal, also historically called as Orugallu or Ekasila Nagaram is the headquarters of Warangal
district in Telangana. The city is experiencing rapid urbanization of about 28% according to 2011
census. Warangal aspires to be the cultural capital of Telangana and will continue to be the centre of
heritage and cultural tourism, which Telangana people proudly identify.
Warangal has also been selected as one of the hundred Indian cities to be developed as a Smart City
under PM Narendra Modi's flagship Smart Cities Mission.
“Smart City Mission” promotes to provide core infrastructure and a good quality of life to its citizens,
a clean and sustainable environment with the application of 'Smart' Solutions'. Figure 1-1 illustrates
the regional extent of ABD area around the Bhadrakali Lake which forms the core area between
Warangal and Hanamkonda. The area encompasses the historic 1000 Pillar Temple, Bhadrakali
Temple, Padmakshi Temple and Hanamkonda CBD area.

2.2 DEMOGRAPHY
An official Census 2011 detail of Warangal, a district of Andhra Pradesh has been released by
Directorate of Census Operations in Andhra Pradesh. Enumeration of key persons was also done by
census officials in Warangal District of Andhra Pradesh.
As per KUDA Master Plan, population of Warangal in 2011 is 615,998; of which male and female are
308,509 and 307,489 respectively. Although Warangal city has population of 615,998; its urban /
metropolitan population1 is 753,438 of which 377,943 are males and 375,495 are females.
Table 2-1: Population Details of Warangal City

Warangal City Total Male Female

City + Out Growths 704,570 353,309 351,261
City Population 615,998 308,509 307,489
Literates 463,801 251,406 212,395
Children (0-6) 59,195 30,380 28,815
Average Literacy (%) 83.30 % 90.39 % 76.22 %
Sex ratio 997
Child Sex ratio 948
Source: Based on proposed KUDA Master Plan 2041

2.3 LOCATION & REGIONAL SETTING

Warangal is the second largest city in Telangana after Hyderabad, spreading across 406.87 sq.km.
(157 sq.mi.) with a population of 811,844. Along with 11 other cities in the country having rich
culture and heritage, it has been chosen for the HRIDAY – Heritage City Development and
Augmentation Yojana scheme by the Government of India. It was also selected as a Smart City in the
"fast-track competition", which makes it eligible for additional investment to improve urban
infrastructure and industrial opportunities under the Smart City Mission.
Bhadrakali Lake is located near the Lal Bahadur College of Warangal. Tourists can easily reach the
temple via locally run auto rickshaws or by hiring a private taxi.
1
Consisting the City and Out growths.
2.3.1 LINKAGES & CONNECTIVITY
2.3.1.1 Roadway
The city is connected to major cities and towns by means of road and railways. National and state
highways that pass through the city are, National Highway 163, connecting Hyderabad and
Bhopalpatnam; NH 563 connecting Ramagundam and Khammam; State Highway 3. TSRTC operates
buses to various destinations from Hanamkonda and Warangal bus stations of the city. City buses
run in various routes across the city and sub urban areas.

2.3.1.2 Railway
Warangal has two railway stations namely, Kazipet and Warangal on the important New Delhi-
Chennai main line of Indian Railways. They are administered under the jurisdiction of the
Secunderabad railway division of South Central Railway Zone. Kazipet Junction shelters both Electric
and Diesel Loco sheds with a capacity of holding 175 and 142 locomotives. Kazipet town,
Vanchanagiri, Pendial, Hasanparthy Road railway station are the other railway stations within the
city limits. The construction of third railway line between Balharshah and Kazipet was sanctioned at
an estimated cost of ₹24.032 billion (US$370 million). Bhadrakali Lake is located around 5 km away
from Warangal railway station.

2.3.1.3 Airway
Warangal has an airport built by the Nizams at Mamnoor in 1930. It was largest airport in undivided
India with 1,875 acres of land, a 6.6-km runway, a pilot and staff quarters, a pilot training centre and
more than one terminal. Many cargo services and Vayudoot services were served. During the Indo-
China war, it served as a hangar for government aircraft due to Delhi airport being a target in
combat. It remained in service until 1981.
This airport is currently being used as NCC Training Centre by No. 4(A) air squadron for gliding
sorties, skeet shooting and aero-modelling. There is no scheduled commercial air service from this
airport at present.
2.3.2 CLIMATE & GEOLOGY
Warangal is located at 18.0°N 79.58°E. It has an average elevation of 302 metres (990 feet). It is
settled in the eastern part of Deccan Plateau made up of granite rocks and hill formations which left
the region barren making the cultivation depend on seasonal rainfalls. There are no river flows
nearby Warangal, which makes it to rely on Kakatiya Canal which originates from Sriram Sagar
Project to meet the drinking water requirements. Located in the semi-arid region of Telangana,
Warangal has a predominantly hot and dry climate. Summer starts in March, and peak in May with
average high temperatures in the 42°C (108°F) range. The monsoon arrives in June and lasts until
September with about 550 mm (22 in) of precipitation. A dry, mild winter starts in October and lasts
until early February, when there is little humidity and average temperatures in the 22–23 °C (72–
73°F) range. Many hill rocks and lakes are located around Warangal. Padmakshi hill and Govinda
Rajula Gutta are two famous hills with temples.
2.3.3 ECONOMY
Warangal city economy is predominantly agricultural in nature. This is a rice-growing region and
most farmers grow rice for both subsistence and commerce. Cotton is the major cash crop in the
region. Chilly cultivation is also wide spread in the area. The region intensely depends on secondary
rainfalls. The important agricultural activities taken up in the region and their products are,
Agriculture: Rice, Cotton, Red gram, Bengal gram, Spices, Chilies, Jowar, Maize, Gherkin.
Horticulture: Mango, Bananas, Oranges, Custard-apple, Watermelon, vegetables like Tomato, Ladies
finger, Brinjal etc.

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Floriculture: Rose, Jasmine, various Aromatic and Medicinal plants like Citronella, Lemon grass.
Warangal has several small and medium scale industries. A Software Technology Park of India (STPI)
was set up recently at NIT Warangal, with the intention of taking the benefits of the Information
Technology revolution to the second tier cities. Warangal makes an excellent location because of its
proximity to Hyderabad, the student pool from some of the best institutes in the country. The city
has a large grain market in Enamamula, which is supposed to be the second biggest market in the
entire Asia. The city has also good transportation facilities, infrastructure, lesser traffic problems, etc.
Warangal being the service town for the pilgrims and an educational centre is the key driver in
service sector, agriculture and related trade. Leather tanning in Desaipet, and Enumamula is the
biggest and most famous.
Most of the leather is exported outside the city to the trade housing in Chennai and Kolkata. Granite
formation is exposed in the forms of hills, hillocks and small scattered outcrops. The granite rock are
being intruded by dolerite dykes, quartz veins etc. They are found in different shades of grey, pink
and dark grey. Phorparictic granite is also available. There are many small scale industrial units like
rice mills, oil mills, cotton ginning mills, beedi making factory, dairy product, granite slab polishing.
Large numbers of factories are concentrated in Hanamkonda followed by Geesugonda.
2.3.4 PHYSICAL SETTING
The Warangal town is surrounded with isolated hills, hill streams, seasonal rain fed tank and large
water bodies & lakes. The district generally tends to be dry without major fluctuations in the
temperature. It gets quite warm during the summer months of April, May and June and continues to
be warm in rest of the year except during December and January, when the temperature drops
slightly. The rainy season sets in the Warangal City with the onset of Southwest monsoon in the later
part of June month, and ends in the month of September with the closure of the South-west
monsoon. The average annual rainfall of the district is 800 mm, with maximum rainfall recorded in
the months of July, August and September every year. The major water supply source for irrigation
and drinking water to Warangal City is Kakatiya Canal. The other sources of water supply for
irrigation in Warangal district include rain fed tanks, wells and hill-streams which require good
showers in the season. Granite stone of Warangal district is very famous as construction material.
Warangal has both black soils and Red soils, which are rich in Potash and deficient in nitrogen and
phosphorus.
2.3.5 CULTURAL SETTING
A majority of the city population speak ‘Telugu’. Several ancient Telugu poets viz., Kavi Potana and
Kavi Palkuriki Somanna and also many modern day poets hail from this place. Major Hindu festivals
celebrated in the city include Bathukamma festival — local festivals celebrated by women to worship
the goddess. Dassera, Deepavali, Sankranti are also celebrated here. The district hosts the famous bi-
annual event, Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara or congregation, which records the participation of over
six million people for a full three day period around the small village of Medaram and its adjacent
stream/rivulet, Jampanna Vagu. Medaram Village is 90 km from Warangal city. This fair is believed to
be the largest repeating congregation of tribal communities across the world and commemorates
the valiant fight put up by a mother daughter combination (Samakka and Sarakka) with the reigning
Kakatiya king over an unjust law. Also, this is biggest congregation after Kumbha Mela in India.

2.4 TOURISM IN WARANGAL

The city of Warangal attracts many tourists from all over country. The 1000 pillar temple, Fort
Warangal, Bhadrakali Lake and Temple attracts many tourists and there are many attractions which
are located away from the city, like the Ramappa temple, Ramappa Lake, Laknavaram Lake Etc. The
Warangal city contributes about 20% of total tourist inflow of the Warangal district. The tourists
camp in Warangal City, to visit these tourist attractions.

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Out of the approximate 32 lakh tourists to Warangal in a year, an average of 400 – 500 visitors are
coming to Bhadrakali Temple on a daily basis. The huge number of visitors to the temple indicates
the cultural value of temple and explains that it is one of the major tourist attractions in the city.
Also being adjacent to the historical Bhadrakali Lake, people visiting the temple get attracted to visit
the Bhadrakali Bund. The lake is considered as a religious prospect as many of the temple’s activities
are happening around it.
Table 2-2: Tourist Growth Rate in Warangal
Growth Growth Growth
Year Domestic International Total
rate rate rate
2004 1,709,561 310 1,709,871
2005 2,625,788 54% 512 65% 2,626,300 54%
2006 2,528,312 -4% 810 58% 2,529,122 -4%
2007 1,648,679 -35% 1,081 33% 1,649,760 -35%
2008 2,713,199 65% 1,243 15% 2,714,442 65%
2009 2,921,667 8% 537 -57% 2,922,204 8%
2010 2,515,263 -14% 350 -35% 2,515,613 -14%
2011 3,801,395 51% 315 -10% 3,801,710 51%
2012 3,213,367 -15% 1,034 228% 3,214,401 -15%
Source: Based on proposed KUDA Master Plan 2041

Based on the available data the tourist projection for the district is done by using geometric,
arithmetic and incremental progressions and the average value is being considered for the future
tourist inflow of the district.

Table 2-3: Projected tourists in Warangal for the year 2041

Increment G.Ratio Average

Year A.P. G.P.
al (Max.) Population
3,267,54
2015 3,243,621 3,369,684 3,283,565 3,291,102
0
3,296,82
2018 3,272,841 3,532,468 3,354,216 3,364,088
7
3,302,26
2021 3,302,061 3,703,116 3,426,388 3,433,457
1
3,148,11
2031 3,399,460 4,333,754 3,678,366 3,639,923
0
3,496,85 2,728,93
2041 5,071,788 3,948,875 3,811,614
9 5
Source: Based on proposed KUDA Master Plan 2041

With adventure trails, eco-tourism prospects in the region will increase, giving avenue for additional
form and type of tourism in the region.

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 3 EXISTING SITUATION ANALYSIS
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Initially, Hanamkonda
or Anmakonda was a
village founded by two
brothers, Kondaiah and
Hanumaiah, during the
Kakatiya Dynasty. One
can visit numerous
Hanuman (the Monkey
God and an ardent
devotee of Lord Ram)
temples in this village
which is also a reason
for the localities name.
It is believed that when
Lord Hanuman was
returning with the Figure 3-4: View of Hanamkonda Hill.
Sanjeevni Mountain, a
few stones fell out of it, which formed hills at this place. At present, Hanamkonda is the major
commercial centre with shopping and residential locality at the centre of the tricity of Warangal-
Hanamkonda-Kazipet.
The envisage project for ‘Heritage Walk and Adventure Tourism’ under SCM has been approved in
two phases:
 Phase-I: Project cost is of INR 11.32 Cr.; and
 Phase-II: Project cost is of INR 12.99 Cr.
The total length of the Heritage Walk is 5.08 km including existing roads. The present study deals
with the Phase-I existing features detailed out in this chapter.

3.2 LAND USE

Hanamkonda Hill is located almost in the heart of the Warangal city and the ABD area, having easy
accessibility to all class of city dwellers. At present, the hillock with historical and heritage
significance has been under-utilized. Keeping in view the growing aspirations and population, it is
felt that the Jain relics lying in Hanamkonda Hill to be enhanced as tourist allure.
The proposed land use pattern of the Hanamkonda Hill is depicted on Figure 3 -5. It falls under the
Heritage and Conservation Zone of the proposed Master Plan, 2041.

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 Figure 3-5: Land use showing Hanamkonda Hill and its surrounding area (2041).

While the northern and eastern part of the hillock is mostly residential land use and partially mixed-
use; the southern and western part consists of the Bhadrakali Lake and Temple, Padmakshi Hill and
Temple and is under recreational facilities.

3.3 LOCATIONAL ADVANTAGES

Apart from historical and heritage significance of Hanamkonda Hill, the destination is surrounded by
major landmarks in Warangal; as given in Figure 3 -6.

Figure 3-6: Hanamkonda Hill and its surrounding tourist spots.

The tourist spots in and around Hanamkonda Hill has been elaborated below.

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3.3.1 Bhadrakali Temple & Lake

Bhadrakali Temple is known to be one of the oldest temples for Goddess Bhadrakali in India, located
on the banks of Bhadrakali Lake. The temple’s main deity is Bhadrakali’s idol, which is unlike other
images of the mother goddess, and is with pleasant looking eyes holding weapons in her eight
hands. As per the inscriptions on the temple wall, the temple is believed to be constructed by the
King Pulakesi ll of Chalukya dynasty around 625 AD.
The Bhadrakali Lake is constructed by the Kakatiyas for the irrigation and drinking water purpose
during 12th century. It is still one of the important drinking water sources for the urbanscape.
3.3.2 Padmakshi Temple & Pond

Padmakshi temple, believed to be built during 12 th century, is an ancient beautiful temple with
Goddess Padmakshi as the main deity. Wonderful pillar known as Anakonda Pillar, a stunning
quadrangular column made with granite black stone, is placed at the entrance of this temple. The
four faces of the pillar are marvellous and impressive. The sculptures and carvings at the pillar and
Mahavir sculptures on the rocks provide light to the belief that initially his was a Jain shrine.
3.3.3 Kakatiya Musical Garden

An enchanting Musical Garden is spread over 15 Acres. A visually pleasing landscaped green space,
musical fountain with eye catching colourful lights is the main attraction. A mammoth rock and an
artificial waterfall in the rock structure are placed as the background of Kakatiya Musical Garden.
The authorities have also made a man-made lake for facilitating leisure activities such as boating.
3.3.4 Vana Vigyan 

Vana Vigyan Park is located in Hunter road, in proximity to Hanamkonda Hill. Spread over 50 Acres of
land, the Zoological Park houses a variety of flora and fauna which are looked after by the Forest
Department. The place is a habitat for animals like spotted deer, nilgai, sambhar, crocodiles, rabbits,
tortoises and sloth bear. Pleasant chirping of birds helps to add to the beauty of the delightful
surroundings. Feathered friends like peacock, pheasants, lovebirds, pigeons, ring doves and ducks
add pleasure and variety to the visitors.

3.4 SITE FEATURES

The region is located in the Eastern part of Deccan Plateau made up of granite rocks and scattered
hill formations. The oldest geological formation comprising of Archaean rocks with presence
of Granite Gneisses and Schists, intruded by Dolerite Dykes are present throughout the area. These
are distributed into several bands that run in different strikes emerging from the east north-east
direction with steep dips towards the east.
3.4.1 Approach Road/ Connectivity

The most approachable point of the Hanamkonda Hill is approx. 1km distance from Hanamkonda
Chowrasta Bus Station; and also through Brahmanawada residential area which is only 0.5 km from
Alankar Bus Stop. The hillock can be approached from the Bhadrakali Lake and Temple, but there is
no defined route. There is lack of public transport connecting the place and most of the visitors
arrive in their own initiatives. Also due to absence of dedicated parking zone, the vehicles are parked
haphazardly.
3.4.2 Rock Carvings
The sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras were found in an abandoned state on a hillock, indicating pre-
historic presence of practice of Jainism. The sculptures are engraved on the rocky surface of the

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hillock. These sculptures represent the first Tirthankara Rishabhanatha of Vedic period,
23rd Tirthankara Parshvanatha and 24 th Tirthankara of 599-527 BC. A few inscriptions are also found
on the hillock. The presence of Siddhis 2, who engaged in achieving spiritual enlightenment, may have
led to the village being called as Siddenki. 
Most of the rock carvings in Hanamkonda Hill are is dilapidated state and requires immediate
restoration. Some of the relics are given in Figure 3 -7.

Figure 3-7: Jain Tirthankaras Sculptures in Hanamkonda Hill.

3.4.3 Fort Remains

There are remains of ruined Fort Wall in
Hanamkonda Hill as given in Error:
Reference source not found. This can be
witnessed along the Lake/ Tank stretch.
The Fort wall is in dilapidared condition,
often broken and erratic. Due to years of
negligence, the wall is discontinuous with
gaps having wild vegetative cover and
shrubs in frequent intervals.
Climbing to the top of the Fort Wall, one
can get a serene view of the surrounding
area. The walls are wrecked and not much
of a structure left. This spot is mostly
abandoned, isolated and poorly
maintained. There is no defined approach
to the destination and as a result there is
hardly in visitors.
Figure 3-8: Fort wall stretch on Hanamkonda
Hill

2
The term Siddhi denotes enlightenment.

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3.4.4 Stair-case

Rock cut vertical steps are major feature in the Hanamkonda Hill. Though rock cut architecture is
found in abundance throughout India, this particular section has been not much accentuated in
Hanamkonda Hill. These are most adorned exquisite stone carvings. These ancient and medieval
works of art represent significant achievements of structural engineering and craftsmanship, as
given in Figure 3 -9. There is absence of any railing or support while climbing the stairs with huge
irregular rise, making difficulty while ascending or decending and creating unsafe condition.

Figure 3-9: Vertical rock cut staircase in Hanamkonda Hill

3.4.5 Natural Features

Hanamkonda Hill is a natural granite rock block with sparse vegetative cover in and around the
hillock, as described below.
3.4.5.1 Hillock
Hanamkonda Hill is located at
Northern side of the
Bhadrakali Lake, which has
covered the lake from the side
of Bhadrakali temple and has
importance and significance in
the historical past of
Warangal.
The crystalline rocks like
granite and gneisses lack
primary porosity. They
develop secondary porosity
through fracturing and
weathering over ages and
thus become water bearing.
The granite block of
Hanamkonda hill is depicted Figure 3-10: Granite Block of Hanamkonda Hill & Surrounding.
in Error: Reference source not
found.

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In the vicinity of the hillock are major sites of tourist interest like Bhadrakali temple and lake,
Kakatiya Musical Garden, Padmakshi temple and pond, Vana Vigyan Park and others. Also there is
presence of Government office building and Education Institutes amongst others.
3.4.5.2 Vegetation
The surrounding area of the Hanamkonda Hill range is limited in plant diversity and shows varying
microclimate of moist deciduous trees and of the dry deciduous forest around it interspersed with
grasslands. Hill consist of mainly thorny plants and bushes with limited trees, some of them includes
azadirachta indica (neem), bauhinia purpurea, dioscorea bulbiferia, acacia etc.
The foothill has dry and degraded fire-prone grassland. The hillock has dry deciduous forest on the
hill top (which is unusually flat) and around the hill, moist deciduous on the slopes and semi
evergreen in the valleys. The throny bushes are given in Figure 3 -11.

Figure 3-11: Foothills of Hanamkonda with thorny bushes

3.4.6 View Points

The elevation of the Hanamkonda Hill at the top is 340m above the Bhadrakali Lake front. This gives
advantage of panoramic view point of the city in one side and the picturesque Bhadrakali Lake
precinct in the other side. Defined scenic viewpoints and vista will provide opportunity of the
trekkers/ hikers with nature trail, resting area, and magnificent backdrop.
The city view from Hanamkonda Hill has been given in Figure 3 -12.

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 Figure 3-12: City views from Hanamkonda Hill

The view of lake and its surrounding hillocks from Hanamkonda Hill has been depicted in Figure 3
-13.

Figure 3-13: Lake views from Hanamkonda Hill

3.4.7 Physical Infrastructure at Site

Physical infrastructure is an important aspect, on which the attraction of a place depends. The
existing physical infrastructure in and around Hanamkonda Hill has been detailed in Table 3 -4.

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 Table 3-4: Existing Physical Infrastructure, Bhadrakali Lake
S.No. Components Status

1. Public Toilets No
2. Signage No
3. Lighting No
4. Paved Areas Partial
5. Designated seating area No
6. Informal Seating Facility Partial
7. Drinking water facility No
8. Lighting along approach roads Partial
9. Designated Parking Space No
10. Control Entry and Exit points No
11. Landscaping and Beautification No
Source: Reconnaissance Survey LASA, 2018
3.4.8 Social Infrastructure at Site
Social sustainability relates to inclusion, i.e., the project should provide benefit to all residents in the
influence zone equitably. It should also be based on identification of the gainers and losers from the 
project and to ensure that the gainers are subject to development.
The existing social infrastructure in and around Hanamkonda Hill has been detailed in Table 3 -5.
Table 3-5: Existing Social Infrastructure, Bhadrakali Lake
S.No. Components Status

1. Safety and Security No

2. Public transportation Partial
3. Signage No
4. Lighting Partial
5. Resting area No
6. Drinking Water facility No
7. Toilet No
8. Designated Parking Space No
9. Recreational Space No
10. Commercial activity No
11. Designated space for Socio-cultural activities No
12. Archaeological Heritage element Yes
Source: Reconnaissance Survey LASA, 2018
3.4.9 Environment Condition
The condition of environment in the project area is without much human interference. However, if
planned development is not enforced, there is a possibility to be encroachment and illegal activities
may develop as a consequence.

The existing environmental condition in and around Hanamkonda Hill has been detailed in Table 3
-6.

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 Table 3-6: Existing Environment condition, Bhadrakali Lake
S.No. Components Status
Eco‐sensitive buffers like river, water bodies and wetlands 
1. Yes
Hill zone
2. Yes
Forest cover
3. No
Pollution levels  ‐ air, water, noise, soil 
4. Partial
Disaster Management
5. No
Solid Waste Management
6. No
Sewerage line
7. No
Strom water drainage
8. No
Water supply
9. No
Dedicated Recreational Area
10. Work under progress
Source: Reconnaissance Survey LASA, 2018

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4 SITE INVESTIGATION & CONSULTANTION
PROCESS
4.1 INTRODUCTION
Two routes are planned, one along the foothill and the other over the hilltop for heritage walk and
adventure trails in Hanamkonda Hill. The routes have been identified through multiple site visits,
videography survey and consultations with the KUDA and the GWMC officials.

4.2 FIELD OBSERVATION

The initial field observation includes route survey, mobile GPS location survey, present and past
topographical features, reconnaissance of existing site features, photographs, and interpretation of
Google Earth satellite image; as given in Figure 4 -14.

Figure 4-14: Contour Map, SOI Sheet and Satellite Imagery of Hanamkonda Hill

While the base of the Hanamkonda hill is approx. 860 ft. (260m), the top hill elevation is approx.
1,120 ft. (341 m), giving a steep upsurge of 260 ft. (79 m).

4.3 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

Hills and hillocks are natural assests and require special consideration from the concerned authority
for any improvement or development work. The management, restoration or conservation requires
an integrated, broad based inter-agency/ partnership all working towards a common goal involving
the Development Authorities, City Corporations, Department of Archeology and Museum,

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Department of Tourism, Telangana Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), INTACH, Forest
Department, educational institutions, Public Works Department (PWD) and Pollution Control Board.
The active participation of local community, conservation organizations, CBOs, NGOs, and citizens
groups with active support from the media at all levels of planning, executing and monitoring is
required for implementation of measures to meet the set goals. This is an effective management
method in which the CBOs/ NGO have acted as great catalysts.

Keeping in mind the need and rational of heritage walk and adventure trail in Hanamkonda Hill,
various stakeholders were involved and consulted. The initial outline was given by HRIDAY in
consultation with KUDA officials considering the cultural importance of the area; owing to
beautification of the place and precinct for adventure trails. The next stage of discussions held with
Greater Warangal Municipal Corporation (GWMC) officials, local Corporator, and neighbouring
inhabitants for improvement provisions and addressing critical issues within the study area.

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5 CONCLUSION AND WAY FORWARD
5.1 CHALLENGES
Being one of the historical as well as natural precincts in the urbanscape, and unique in style with its
geological formations, the identity of Hanamkonda Hill is not coming out and its potential is not fully
exploited. At present, there is no provision of heritage walk and adventure trails in the region. This
form of eco-tourism will generate new breed of visitors in the region, one which focuses on heritage,
adventure tourism and trekking. The natural and pre-historic relics of the site to be kept intact, along
with world-class infrastructure provisions to attract the suitable gentry with this novel ‘niche’ or
‘segment’ of tourism.
Environment remains a source of tourist attraction as long as it is not damaged beyond control. But
it needs a greater care to protect all its components from the harmful effect of tourism particularly
w.r.t. vandalism and defacement. Solid waste management is another key area which requires strict
guidelines in case of tourism development. With additional heritage element associated with
Hanamkonda Hill, conservation and preservation measures to be adequate. There is requirement of
forethoughts so that there is no further deterioration of sculptures, wall paintings and the rock
frescoes in the study area.
A planning for adopting a sequence of steps like detailed assessment of the requirement of services
and facilities needed by tourists and measures for development of a healthy and responsible tourism
has become a dire need. Also, understanding the market share of heritage and adventure tourism is
required to provide a long-term sustainable future. This requires addressing not only protecting the
natural environment, but also protecting tourist/ visitors from potential risks and danger.

5.2 WAY FORWARD

After Situation Analysis, Concept Plan will be prepared and its feasibility will be discussed in the next
report. Feasibility Analysis Report will primarily focus on the Technical and Financial Feasibility,
including the social economic benefits and environmental improvement that are accrued.

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