Elevate Kaleshwaram–Manthani–Ramagiri as tourism circuit, Sridhar Babu urges Shekhawat
New Delhi: Telangana Industries and IT Minister, D Sridhar Babu, has presented an ambitious proposal to Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, to elevate ‘Kaleshwaram–Manthani–Ramagiri’ corridor into an iconic spiritual and heritage tourism circuit.
With its unparalleled cultural significance, timeless architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty, this triad of destinations has the potential to redefine tourism in India.
Kaleshwaram Mukteshwar Temple: The Southern Jewel of Devotion
Perched on the serene banks of the sacred Godavari River, the Kaleshwaram Mukteshwar Temple is a divine marvel with over a thousand years of spiritual legacy. Revered as ‘Dakshina Kashi’ (The Varanasi of the South), this temple is uniquely blessed with two Shivlingas in its sanctum sanctorum — one symbolizing Mukteshwara (Lord Shiva) and the other Kaleshwara (Lord Yama).
Sridhar Babu elaborated on its unparalleled importance, drawing parallels with spiritual landmarks like Somnath, Kedarnath, and Kashi.
The Kaleshwaram Temple is more than a place of worship; it is a spiritual powerhouse that attracts millions of devotees annually. This year’s Saraswati Pushkaralu is expected to bring in 30–40 lakh pilgrims, and the Godavari Pushkaralu in 2027 could see over a crore visitors. “With the government central assistance, we can transform this temple into a world-class spiritual and eco-tourism hub, complete with amenities that elevate the experience for global visitors,” he explained.
Ramagiri Fort: Where History Meets Mythology
Towering over the landscape with its 1,200-year-old legacy, the Ramagiri Fort is a treasure trove of history and legend. Its mention in the Ramayana, ancient temples dedicated to Lord Rama, cascading waterfalls, and an abundance of rare medicinal plants make it an irresistible destination for travelers and history enthusiasts alike.
Sridhar Babu called for its transformation into a mega tourism hub under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme or similar initiatives: “Ramagiri Fort is a hidden gem, embodying the spirit of India’s ancient heritage. Its scenic beauty, mythological significance, and archaeological wealth make it a perfect fit for global recognition. Visitors are already flocking here, and with strategic investments, this fort can be elevated to the ranks of world-class heritage sites,” he said.
Crafting a Global Tourism Landmark
Sridhar Babu’s visionary proposal highlights the transformative potential of the ‘Kaleshwaram–Manthani–Ramagiri’ circuit as a flagship tourism project. By weaving together history, spirituality, and natural splendor, the region can be positioned as a global magnet for tourists, pilgrims, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
“This is not just about tourism; it’s about celebrating India’s soul. With the central government’s support, we can turn this dream into a reality, establishing Telangana as a shining beacon of India’s spiritual and cultural legacy on the global stage.”
With such grand ambitions, the Kaleshwaram Temple and Ramagiri Fort could soon stand shoulder to shoulder with India’s most iconic destinations, drawing millions from across the globe and leaving an indelible mark on the world tourism map, he added.