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Telangana

A land of rich history, majestic forts, and vibrant traditions

Charminar, the iconic 16th-century monument and mosque in Hyderabad, Telangana

Telangana, the youngest state of India, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient heritage and modern dynamism. From the grandeur of Golconda Fort to the spiritual serenity of Ramappa Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the state is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. Known for its Deccani hospitality, Hyderabadi cuisine, and folk arts like Perini Shivatandavam, Telangana offers a unique cultural experience.

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Must-Visit Attractions in Telangana

Golconda Fort, a majestic 16th-century fortress in Telangana, featuring grand stone walls, royal palaces, and iconic acoustic architecture.

Golconda Fort

A historic fortress famed for its acoustic wonders, diamond legacy, and grand Qutb Shahi-era light & sound show.

Iconic Charminar monument in Hyderabad, Telangana - a 16th-century granite mosque with four grand arches and minarets, surrounded by bustling markets.

Charminar

Hyderabad’s iconic 1591 monument, surrounded by Laad Bazaar’s pearls and bangles, symbolizing the city’s vibrant culture.

Ancient Ramappa Temple in Palampet, known for its intricate Kakatiya-era stone carvings.

Ramappa Temple

A 13th-century Kakatiya marvel with floating bricks, intricate carvings, and earthquake-resistant engineering.

Ruins of Warangal Fort, featuring massive stone gateways and Kakatiya dynasty architecture.

Warangal Fort

A Kakatiya-era masterpiece showcasing majestic stone gateways, Nandi sculptures, and ancient grandeur.

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Heritage of Telangana

Historic Golconda Fort in Telangana, showcasing grand stone ramparts and acoustic architecture.
Golconda Fort

Telangana’s history is a captivating saga of mighty dynasties like the Kakatiyas, Qutb Shahis, Nizams, and Chalukyas, each leaving behind architectural marvels and cultural legacies. The state boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Ramappa Temple, the grand Golconda Fort (under consideration), and the majestic Qutb Shahi Tombs. Beyond these, ancient Jain and Buddhist sites like Kondagattu Anjaneya Temple and Nelakondapalli reveal the region’s spiritual past, while historic stepwells (Baolis) such as Sulakshan Cheruvu showcase ingenious water-harvesting techniques from bygone eras. This rich heritage makes Telangana a living museum of India’s glorious history.

The Performing Arts of Telangana

Telangana’s cultural tapestry is woven with vibrant dance forms, soulful music, and age-old folk traditions that reflect its rich heritage. From the fierce Perini Shivatandavam, a warrior dance dedicated to Lord Shiva, to the rhythmic Lambadi and Gussadi of tribal communities, the state’s performing arts are a celebration of its history and spirituality. Folk music like Oggu Katha and Dappu beats narrate tales of valor and devotion, while Qawwali and Ghazals echo the Nizami legacy of Hyderabad. Each art form, whether classical or tribal, preserves the essence of Telangana’s identity, making it a living museum of India’s diverse cultural expressions.

Music Form

Telangana’s music ranges from soulful folk ballads to the grandeur of Qawwali, echoing its syncretic Deccani culture. These traditions thrive in temples, villages, and Sufi shrines alike.

Traditional Telangana folk music performance with dholak, harmonium, and rural singers.

Telangana Folk Music

Rustic songs celebrating agrarian life and local legends.

Sufi Qawwali and Ghazal performance in Telangana, with musicians in traditional attire.

Qawwali & Ghazals

Poetic Sufi melodies rooted in Hyderabad’s Nizami heritage.

Oggu Katha, a traditional Telangana storytelling art with music and mythological tales.

Oggu Katha

 Mythological storytelling through song, dedicated to folk deities.

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Others Music forms – Burra Katha

Dance Form

Telangana’s dance traditions reflect its warrior legacy, tribal vibrancy, and devotional fervor. From the energetic Perini Shivatandavam to the rhythmic Dappu, each form narrates stories of valour, folklore, and celebration. These dances are deeply tied to festivals, rituals, and community gatherings.

Perini Shivatandavam, an ancient Telangana warrior dance performed with vigorous movements and drums.

Perini Shivatandavam

A fierce warrior dance invoking Lord Shiva, known for its vigorous movements and Tandava energy.

Lambadi tribal dance in Telangana, with women in mirror-work attire and rhythmic folk steps.

Lambadi Dance

A colorful Banjara tribal dance with swirling skirts and rhythmic footwork.

Gussadi dance of Telangana's Gond tribe, featuring elaborate costumes and energetic movements.

Gussadi Dance

A Gond tribal dance featuring elaborate horned masks and spirited jumps.

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Others Dance forms – Dappu Dance and Oggu Katha

Festivals and Celebrations​

Telangana’s festivals are a vibrant blend of agrarian traditions, tribal heritage, and spiritual devotion, reflecting the state’s deep-rooted culture. From the colorful floral celebrations of Bathukamma to the thunderous drum beats of Bonalu, each festival tells a unique story of faith, unity, and joy. These celebrations bring communities together, showcasing Telangana’s rich folklore, rituals, and timeless customs.

Colorful Bathukamma festival in Telangana, with women arranging flower stacks in circular patterns.

Bathukamma

Devotees carrying Bonalu pots during the Bonalu festival in Telangana, honoring Goddess Mahakali.

Bonalu

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara, a grand tribal festival in Telangana, with rituals and folk dances.

Sammakka

Telangana’s Cuisine

Flavorful Hyderabadi biryani from Telangana, layered with basmati rice, spices, and tender meat.

Hyderabadi Biryani

Rich and creamy Haleem, a Ramadan delicacy from Telangana, made with wheat, lentils, and meat.

Haleem

Crispy Sarva Pindi, a savory Telangana rice flour pancake with peanuts and spices.

Sarva Pindi

A rich tapestry of flavors blending spicy, tangy, and aromatic traditions, Telangana’s food reflects its royal Nizami heritage and rustic agrarian roots. From the world-famous Hyderabadi Biryani to earthy Telangana spices, every dish tells a story of culture and craftsmanship.

  • Hyderabadi Biryani – Fragrant slow-cooked rice layered with tender meat and saffron.

  • Haleem – A hearty Ramadan delicacy of wheat, meat, and slow-stirred spices.

  • Sarva Pindi – Crispy rice flour pancake topped with peanuts and sesame.

  • Pachi Pulusu – A refreshing raw tamarind soup with onions and green chilies.

  • Qubani Ka Meetha – Sweet stewed apricots served with cream or ice cream.

Popular Shopping Items

Telangana offers a shopper’s paradise with Pochampally Ikat sarees, Hyderabadi pearls, and Bidriware. Explore vibrant bazaars for Nirmal toys, Cheriyal paintings, and Lac bangles. Don’t miss spices, handwoven fabrics, and Dokra metal crafts for unique souvenirs.

  • Hyderabadi Pearls & Lac Bangles – From Laad Bazaar & Begum Bazaar.

  • Pochampally Ikat Silk – UNESCO-recognized handwoven sarees.

  • Nirmal Toys & Paintings – Made from softwood and natural dyes.

  • Bidriware – Silver-inlaid metal craft from Bidar (now in Telangana).

  • Telangana Handicrafts – Cheriyal Scroll Paintings & Dokra Metal Art.

Best shopping places: Laad Bazaar, Sultan Bazaar, Begum Bazaar, Nampally Exhibition and, Shilparamam

Hyderabadi Pearls

Lac Bangles

Pochampally Ikat Silk

Nirmal Toys & Paintings

Evolution of Telangana

⇒ Ancient Era: Ruled by Satavahanas, Chalukyas, and Kakatiyas.

⇒ Medieval Period: Flourished under Bahmanis & Qutb Shahis (Golconda Sultanate).

⇒ Nizam Rule: Hyderabad State under Asaf Jahi dynasty (1724-1948).

⇒ Post-Independence: Merged into Andhra Pradesh (1956) before becoming India’s 29th state (2014).

Folk Dances of Telangana

Perini Shivatandavam, an ancient warrior dance form from Telangana, performed with intense energy.

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