Erstwhile undivided Andhra Pradesh, like its neighbours Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, is a land of tanks. The ‘Cheruvus’, ‘Eris’ and ‘Keres’, as they are known in the respective regional languages, are irrigation tanks dug centuries ago by kings and philanthropists to feed thousands of acres of thirsty paddy fields.
The Kakatiyas who ruled over most of modern day Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are responsible for decorating the landscape with irrigation tanks of varying sizes and shapes. Close to 5000 colossal tanks were commissioned during their reign, many of which are still in use even today. ‘Mission Kakatiya’ is the Telangana government’s ambitious project to rejuvenate all tanks and lakes in the state over the next five years.
With mountains all around and paddy fields interspersed with turmeric patches in between, the drive from Warangal to Laknavaram is a sight to behold. Located at a distance of around 70 kilometres from Warangal town, Laknavaram is a slice of paradise nestled amidst the state’s extensive paddy landscape. Though not one among the focus tanks under Mission Kakatiya, Laknavaram is one of the state’s famed rain-fed irrigation tanks turned tourist paradise.
How to get there
The nearest airport is Hyderabad, around 130 kilometres away. Warangal is well connected by road and rail with daily services to and from Hyderabad.
If you have more than a couple of days in Warangal, make sure to visit the ruins of the Kakatiya Fort which now house the famed 'Kakatiya Kala Thoranam' or Warangal Gates, the official symbol of the Government of Telangana.
You could hop on a town bus or hire a taxi from Warangal town and visit Ramappa Gudi and Laknavaram and be back just in time to savour the sunset at the famed Thousand Pillared Temple in Hanamakonda, just outside Warangal.