Konda Reddy Fort, also known as Kurnool Fort, is a historical site that stands as a testament to the bygone era of the region. The fort has a rich history that dates back to the 12th-century when the area was under the rule of the Vijayanagara Empire. It played a significant role during various battles and witnessed many dynasties. The fort is named after Konda Reddy, the last ruler of Alampur who was imprisoned here. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, marvel at the architecture, and take a walk through the tunnels that are said to stretch all the way to the Alampur temples, though these are not accessible. The fort provides panoramic views of the surrounding city and the Tungabhadra river. As it's a protected monument, there's no need for a long duration visit; an hour or two would be enough time to take in the history and scenery at the site.
Belum Caves are a natural underground cave system located near Kurnool. These are the second longest caves in the Indian subcontinent, known for their unique spelothems, such as stalactite and stalagmite formations. Stretching over 3,229 meters, the caves are known for their long passages, spacious chambers, and fresh water galleries. A visit to the Belum Caves is like stepping into an entirely different world, with formations that spark the imagination. The lighting inside the caves highlights their beauty, making the experience all the more ethereal. There is also a Buddha statue near the caves, signifying the historical presence of Buddhist monks who were likely to have used the caves for meditation. Exploring the Belum Caves typically takes around two to three hours, and it's worth knowing the site can be quite warm inside, so visitors should be prepared.
The Orvakal Rock Gardens, also known as Oravakallu Rock Garden, is a scenic natural landscape featuring ancient rock formations, a serene lake, and well-maintained gardens. The rock formations here are believed to be over 250 million years old and provide a visually stunning backdrop. The garden also offers boat rides on the lake, giving visitors a unique perspective of the rock structures from the water. These boat rides are a peaceful way to spend time in nature, and families often enjoy picnics in the garden areas. The rock garden is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and naturalists alike. A visit to the Orvakal Rock Gardens, including a leisurely boat ride and exploration, can typically take up to two hours or more depending on how much time you want to spend relaxing in the gardens.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spread over 614 sq. km, this sanctuary is known for its vast grassy plains and is a conservation area for the Great Indian Bustard, which is a critically endangered species. Apart from the bustard, it is also home to many other species of birds and animals like blackbucks, sparrows, mynas, and much more. The sanctuary offers guided tours, which are a great way to observe wildlife in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts. A visit here offers a tranquil experience away from the bustling city life, and its serene environment is perfect for rejuvenation and bird watching. Typically, a trip to the Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary can last anywhere from a few hours to an entire day, depending on the level of exploration and interest in wildlife.
Ahobilam, located in the hills of the Eastern Ghats, is a prominent pilgrimage site featuring nine Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temples, collectively known as Nava Narasimha, are spread across the Upper and Lower Ahobilam regions. A trek through the dense Nallamala Forests to visit these shrines not only offers spiritual fulfillment but also presents an opportunity to appreciate the tranquility of natural surroundings and rich wildlife. The varying difficulty levels of the trek to each temple cater to both seasoned trekkers and casual visitors. The entire journey to all nine temples can take a full day, whereas visiting a few selected shrines might take a few hours. It is not only a spiritual journey but also a physical adventure, blending devotion with the raw beauty of nature.
The Sri Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple is an ancient temple that becomes a focal point of festive activities during Maha Shivaratri, when the temple's car festival is held annually. The temple itself boasts stunning architecture and is renowned for the growing Nandi idol inside its premises. Pilgrims gather from distant places to witness the temple rituals and partake in the holy event, which is an immersion into South Indian culture and devotion. During the festival days, visitors can observe special poojas, ritual dances, and the unique practice of casting away of the evil eye. While the temple is open year-round, it becomes particularly lively during this period. Exploring the temple and participating in the festivities can take several hours, especially if one is interested in witnessing different rituals or wishes to engage with the local culture in depth.
The Kurnool Museum is a place of historical and cultural importance, displaying a vast collection of artifacts that showcase the region's rich heritage. Visitors will find items ranging from ancient coins, sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts from the prehistoric Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. The museum also houses a collection of weapons, armory, and relics from various dynasties that ruled the region. A walk through the museum reveals the evolution of human civilization and culture in the Rayalaseema region. It's a great spot for history buffs, researchers, and anyone interested in learning about the past. The museum is well-organized, offering insights into the lifestyle, art, and traditions of the past. Browsing through the museum's collections can take about an hour or two, making it an educational yet leisurely venture.
Jurala Dam, also known as the Priyadarshini Jurala Project, is positioned on the Krishna River and serves as a perfect picnic spot for families and nature lovers. Not only does the dam function as a hydroelectric project, but its scenic surroundings offer a refreshing getaway. Visitors can enjoy the serene environment, take walks along the water's edge, and, depending on the season, may witness the dam's gates open, a sight that is as mesmerizing as it is powerful. Children can play around the large open spaces, and the area is also suitable for bird watching. Being at Jurala Dam is relaxing and enables travelers to take a break from their routine while enjoying the soothing sounds of cascading water. The visit can last from a couple of hours to a full day if you opt to indulge in a laid-back day outing.
A marvel of modern engineering, Srisailam Dam is not only a source of power and water for the region but also a tourist attraction. Situated on the Krishna River in a deep gorge in the Nallamala Hills, it offers an awe-inspiring view of the mighty river and surrounding landscapes. Apart from its primary purpose, the dam is a preferred spot for tourists to enjoy leisure activities, such as motorboat rides and photography. Many pilgrims, who visit the nearby Srisailam temple, often conclude their visit with a relaxing trip to the dam. It's a great way to cool off, particularly during hot summer months. Depending on the water levels and time of the year, visitors may be able to take a dip in designated safe zones. Usually, spending half a day is sufficient to enjoy the essence of Srisailam Dam's beauty and activities.
The Raghavendra Swamy Temple in Mantralayam is a renowned spiritual site dedicated to the famous Vaishnava saint, Sri Raghavendra Swamy. The temple is a hub of religious activity where devotees come from all over to pay respects and seek blessings. It's well known for the Brindavan of Sri Raghavendra Swamy, which is said to house his mortal remains and believed to be a place of miracles. The peaceful atmosphere and the highly charged spiritual surroundings add to the sanctity of the temple. Visitors will find a sense of comfort and serenity within the temple premises. The temple also feeds thousands of pilgrims every day as a part of their hospitality. To fully absorb the calm and participate in the various services and poojas, plan to spend at least a couple of hours to half a day at Mantralayam.
Hill Stations (3)
Beaches (7)
Religious Places (80)
Historical Places (57)
Museums (16)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (9)
National Parks (4)
Forts (2)
Villages (4)
Zoos (3)
Mountains (3)
Island (1)
Gardens (5)
Waterfalls (9)
Dams (10)
Lakes (6)
Trekking Places (1)
