Eluru is primarily known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is famous for its hand-woven products, especially the Eluru carpets also known as Jamdani or Uppada Jamdani sarees. Additionally, Eluru was part of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Vengi and has a number of historical sites related to this heritage.
Tourists in Eluru can visit sites such as the Kolleru Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, which is a haven for bird watchers, especially during the migratory season. The Eluru Ashram, also known as Nam Datta Natha Kshetram, is another point of interest. For historical exploration, the Guntupalli Caves, an ancient Buddhist site, is a must-visit. There are also numerous temples like the Dwarka Tirumala temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, located nearby.
The ideal time to visit Eluru is between October and March when the weather is relatively cooler and more pleasant, making it suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This time also coincides with the migratory season for birds at Kolleru Lake.
The Flamingo Festival at the nearby Kolleru Lake is an annual event that attracts tourists, celebrating the migration of Greater Flamingos and other birds. Eluru also celebrates traditional Indian festivals such as Makar Sankranti, Ugadi, and Deepavali with great fervor, providing tourists with an opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.
Eluru provides a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, including hotels, lodges, and guest houses. For a more immersive experience, visitors may choose to stay in nearby towns such as Bhimavaram or Rajahmundry, which offer additional options for lodging.
Visitors to Eluru should try local Andhra cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors. Dishes such as pulihora (tamarind rice), pesarattu (green gram dosa), gongura (sorrel leaves) pickles, and seafood from Kolleru Lake are quite popular. Sweet delicacies like pootharekulu (paper-thin sweet rolls made of rice flour) and kaja (a sweet made of maida and sugar syrup) are also a must-try.
Tourists can get around in Eluru through various modes of transportation such as auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and local buses. For a more comfortable and flexible travel, hiring a taxi or renting a car is recommended.
Tourists can shop for traditional handloom sarees and fabrics, which the region is famous for. Local markets and government emporiums offer a range of hand-woven items. The city is also known for its gold jewelry and pearl shops.
While Kolleru Lake can be visited anytime, the best time is during the bird migratory season from October to March, when the lake is bustling with a variety of bird species, making it a spectacular sight for bird enthusiasts.
Some historical sites in and around Eluru may have a nominal entry fee, but many places do not charge visitors. It is advisable to check the details of each site before visiting.