At a distance of 145 km from the northeast of Hyderabad, Warangal in historical times was the capital of a Shaivaite kingdom that was ruled by the Kakatiya dynasty from 12th to the 14th centuries. The entire city was reportedly carved in a single rock. Warangal is well connected by rail from Hyderabad, New Delhi, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Chennai. The city represents a cluster of three towns such as Warangal, Kazipet and Hanamkonda. Among the most famous monuments of Telangana is the Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda. Located nearby is the temple of Bhadrakali. The Warangal Fort consists of 45 towers and pillars, which are spread over a radius of 19 km. The iconic ‘Ekasshila’, a carved gateway in the fort, is the official symbol of Telangana. Other attractions include Khush Mahal, Ramalingeswara Temple, Ramappa Lake, Pakhal Lake and Eturunagaram Sanctuary.