Laknavaram

Laknavaram cheruvu is a picturesque lake surrounded by verdant hills and forest in the village Laknavaram in Govindraopet mandal of Warangal district in Telangana.  It is about 70 Km from Warangal.  It can be reached by own vehicle or RTC buses.  It is 70 Km from Warangal and can be reached via NH 202. After passing Mulug Taluq, we reach Jangalapally.  Here a right turn should be taken and travel for another 8 Km to reach the mesmerizing tourist spot.  The journey after Mulug passes through forest.  The greenery on either side of the road makes the journey pleasant. 

Laknavaram cheruvu has become a favourite tourist sight for the visitors to Warangal.  The construction of 160 metres hanging bridge that connects to an island in middle of lake makes it a memorable visit.  There are 13 islands on this lake which occupies an area of 10,000 acres. The bridge that leads to the island has a restaurant and rooms for the tourists.  There is an area for children to play.  This is the spot from where boating services will start.  There are cottages on other island.  In rainy season the tank is full and walking on the bridge that is just above water and boating around in the lake makes it a delightful family holiday.  For youth it will be a beautiful spot to chill out in the weekends. 

The lake was constructed during the reign of Kakatiya rulers of Orugallu.  Kakatiya kings have encouraged agriculture by constructing lakes and reservoirs.  As agriculture was regarded as main occupation the rulers have encouraged development of water resources by its officials and the rich people in the kingdom.  Wherever ground water was detected wells and lakes were dug or tanks were built.  Laknavaram cheruvu was built by Kakatiya King Ganapathi Deva*.  This is based on one of the tributary of river Godavari*.  The stream that was flowing was fully utilized to construct Laknavaram reservoir.  The surrounding hills have become strong and perfect boundaries of the reservoir with an area of 108 Sq. miles.  This reservoir stores rain water, when the tank overflows the water will reach Saddimadugu.   From here irrigation canals will run.  The right is 32.8 Km irrigating 5928 acres and the left which runs for 14.2 Km irrigates 2500 acres.  The overflowing water of Laknavaram stream will join river Godavari in Eturinagaram.  Laknavaram cheruvu makes the lands fertile in 6-7 villages that are surrounding it.  Rice is the main crop and they harvest two crops in a year.

Laknavaram is nature’s gift to man, a serene place surrounded by lush green hills.  The development of tourist attractions makes the visit ecstatic.  It is one of the must see places not only in Telangana but in India.

*Information source:  Warangal Zilla Vignyana Sarvaswam, Orugallu Vignyana Sarvaswa Samithi, Warangal (2008).