Karimnagar

Karimnagar is a district in the north-western region of the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Karimnagar District has an average elevation of 265 metres above sea level. This region, through which the Godavari and Maneru flow, holds importance for its commodities-yielding forests.

Covering an area of 11,823 sq km, Karimnagar District is bordered by Adilabad in the north, Warangal District in the south, Medak District in the south-west and Nizamabad District in the west. The states of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh bound the district from the north-east, while Madhya Pradesh surrounds it to the east.

There are a total of 58 mandals or administrative units, in Karimnagar District. The headquarters of this district is the namesake town of Karimnagar, which is a major business, educational and administrative centre. This town is the largest in the district and the fourth largest in the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh.

Karimnagar was formerly known by the name of Elgandal, which represents the native Telangana people. The region was ruled by the Satavahanas, followed by the Vishnukumdin, Vemulavada Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Qutubshahis and Asaf Jahis. It was declared as a district in the year 1906.

The district served as the capital during the rule of the Nizams. They rechristened the district as Karimnagar after one of the then renowned saints, Syed Karimullah Shah Saheb Quadri. Historic monuments that depict the rich heritage of this former centre of Vedic learning include Tower Circle, Kaman Circle and Elgandal Fort.

Earlier, the district was occupied by tribes like Gonds, Koyas and Chenchus. Some of these tribes still exist in Karimnagar. The main language spoken by the people of Karimnagar is Telugu, while Urdu and English are also spoken.

Both Hindu and Muslim festivals are celebrated with zeal here; however, the biggest cultural festival of the region is Bathukamma. Karimnagar is known for its delicate form of metal craft called silver filigree work.

Travellers to Karimnagar can take a flight to Hyderabad (170 km), and from thereon, continue the journey via bus or train. The city is also well-connected to different parts of India directly, via means of rail and road transport. The best time to visit Karimnagar is during the winter season, December through February.