The Thousand Pillar Temple was constructed in 1163 CE by King Rudra Deva (also known as Prataparudra I), the most powerful ruler of the Kakatiya dynasty, who ruled from his capital at Orugallu (modern Warangal). The Kakatiya dynasty, which rose to prominence after the decline of the Chalukyas of Kalyani, were great patrons of art and architecture.
The temple was built during a period of political stability and economic prosperity, which is reflected in the quality and scale of the construction. After the decline of the Kakatiya dynasty following the invasion of Malik Kafur in the 14th century, the temple fell into disuse and was partially buried under earth and vegetation for centuries. The temple was rediscovered and excavated in the 19th century by British archaeologists.
The temple was restored by the ASI in the early 20th century and has since been maintained as an archaeological monument. In 2021, the temple was included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as part of the 'Kakatiya Temples of Telangana' nomination.
