Our Guide To The Best Tourist Places To Visit In Kurnool
Kurnool, also known as ‘The Gateway of Rayalaseema,’ is one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations from Hyderabad. The historical sites, shrines and natural beauty of the places near the city have always pleased the visitors.
Kurnool Tourism
A road trip to Kurnool from Hyderabad is loved by all adventure enthusiasts. If you plan a trip to Kurnool, then we have curated a list of 10 places that you should not miss:
1. Konda Reddy Fort
Konda Reddy Fort, also known as Kondareddy Buruju, is one of the most famous historic sites in Kurnool. This fort was constructed in the 12th century, after which several rulers of the Vijayanagar Empire contributed to its architecture.
This three-storeyed fort is a sight to behold! The first storey is closed for the public while the second and third storeys of the building are open. The porches on the second floor and a tower on the third floor are some of the most attractive architectural features of Konda Reddy Fort.
- Location: Old Bus Stand Area, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001
- Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Nearby attractions:
- Tomb of Abdul Wahab
- Dakshina Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
- Archaeological Museum Kurnool
- Kids World
2. Orvakal Rock Garden
Orvakal Rock Garden is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Kurnool. Once you visit this rock garden located at about 20 kilometres from Kurnool, the beautiful natural rock formations will surely mesmerise you.
The rare rocks found in this area are said to have been formed by volcanic eruptions. Hiking, trekking and boating on the lake situated on the rock garden are some of the popular activities that you can enjoy while visiting Orvakal Rock Garden. A cave museum and an animal garden are also located within its premises.
- Location: Chittoor Road Kurnool
- Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
- Nearby attractions:
- Jagannatha Gattu Hill
- Kalvabugga Rameswara Swamy Temple
- Archaeological Museum Kurnool
3. Belum Caves
Belum Caves, also known as Belum Guhalu in Telugu, is one of the longest and most extensive cave systems on the Indian subcontinent. The Belum Caves are situated near Belum Village, which is at a distance of about 106 kilometres from Kurnool. Interestingly, the village also derives its name from the caves.
Pataalaganga, situated at a distance of 46 metres from the entrance, is the deepest point of Belum Caves. Deposits of several minerals, especially quartz and limestone, are found inside this cave. It is one of the most spectacular places in the country to learn more about the geology of the area.
Excavations in these caves have led to the discovery of relics that belong to Buddhist and Jain monks. In addition to its natural beauty, these caves are also known for their historical and cultural significance. Thus, they are one of the most popular tourist places in Kurnool district.
- Location: 1/1, Opposite Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Kolimigundla, Andhra Pradesh 518123
- Timings: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry fee: ₹65 for Indian and ₹300 for Foreigners
- Nearby attractions:
- Kona Gundam Waterfalls
- Chintala Venkataramana Swamy Temple
- Owk Waterfalls
4. Tomb of Abdul Wahab
Tomb of Abdul Wahab is one of the most famous monuments in Kurnool. This 17th-century tomb situated near River Handri was constructed in the memory of Abdul Wahab Khan, the first Nawab of Kurnool.
Since the architectural features of the tomb resemble the Gol Gumbaz of Bijapur, it is also known as the Gol Gumbaz. The captivating structure boasts of elaborate carvings, which are sure to win every visitor’s attention. The domes and arches are some of the most striking architectural features of this structure.
- Location: Abdul Wahab Khan Gumbad, Osmania College Rd, Peta, KVR Garden Colony, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001
- Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
- Nearby attractions:
- Archaeological Museum Kurnool
- Konda Reddy Fort
- Kids World
5. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of the rarest species of flora and fauna in this region. This wildlife sanctuary, spread over an area of about 16.4 square kilometres, is a habitat of some of the most critically endangered species such as the Great Indian Bustard and the Lesser Florican.
In addition to the critically endangered species and migratory birds, one can easily spot several other animals and birds within its premises. Jackals, Indian Rollers, Bonnet Macaques, Russell’s Viper, Indian Cobra, Demoiselle Cranes and Greater Flamingos are some of the species that can be spotted in this area.
- Location: Rollapadu, Andhra Pradesh 518405
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Nearby attractions:
- Orvakal Rock Garden
- Archaeological Museum
- Shri Jogulamba Temple
6. Yaganti Temple
Sri Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple, also known as Yaganti Temple, is one of the most famous temples in the region. The magnificent temple was constructed in the 15th century during the reign of Vijayanagara Kings. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, was built according to the Vaishnavite traditions.
The temple, Pushkarini, a small pond and the caves near the temple also have a historical and religious significance. Devotees often take a dip in the holy waters of the Pushkarini.
- Location: Temple Gopuram, Yaganti Road, Yaganti, Andhra Pradesh 518124
- Timings: 6 AM to 11 PM and 3 PM to 8 PM
- Nearby attractions:
- Belum Caves
- Orvakal Rock Garden, Kurnool
7. Jumma Masjid
This mosque, located at the heart of the city, is one of the most splendid mosques in the district. The mosque was constructed in the 17th century during the reign of Bijapur Sultans, and it continues to fascinate its onlookers till date.
The artistically decorated minarets, arches and dome of the mosque are some of the most striking features of Jumma Masjid.
- Location: Badi Market Road, Qila, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001
- Nearby attractions:
- Tomb of Abdul Wahab
- Dakshina Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
- Archaeological Museum Kurnool
8. Dakshina Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Dakshina Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, situated on the banks of River Tungabhadra, is another famous pilgrimage centre in Kurnool. This 70-year-old-temple star-shaped temple attracts devotees and tourists alike to experience the serenity and beautiful architecture of the temple.
Although it attracts devotees throughout the year, one can witness a more massive crowd on Thursdays. The four-feet tall marble idol of Sai Baba is sure to leave you awe-struck. Dakshina Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is one of the best places in the town to experience a peaceful environment.
- Location: 59/9, Chithambarao Street, Kothapeta, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Nearby attractions:
- Konda Reddy Fort
- Tomb of Abdul Wahab
- Archaeological Museum Kurnool
9. Archaeological Museum Kurnool
The Archaeological Museum, located at Budavarapupeta in Kurnool, was opened to the public in the year 1999. The exciting collection of the museum includes artefacts, sculptures, weapons and inscriptions. Most of the items date back between the early Chalukyan era and the late Vijayanagara era.
- Location: NH40, Alluri Sitarama Raju Nagar, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518002
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Friday and Public Holidays.
- Entry Fees: ₹3 for adults and ₹1 for children
- Nearby attractions:
- Tomb of Abdul Wahab
- Konda Reddy Fort
- Dhakshina Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
10. Shri Jogulamba Temple
Alampur is known by several names such as Dakshina Kashi, Navabrahmeshwara Theertha and Western Gateway of Srisailam. Alampur is known as Dakshina Kashi because of the confluence of two sacred rivers, Tungabhadra and Krishna, takes place in the town.
Shri Jogulamba Temple is one of the most famous holy sites in the Southern region. This temple is considered to be one of the Shakti Peetha in the world. It is believed that the upper teeth of Sati Devi fell here. The temple was constructed in the 6th century by the rulers of Badami Chalukyas.
- Location: Temple Road, Alampur, Gadwal, Telangana 509152
- Timings: 7 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 8:30 PM
- Nearby attractions:
- Arka Brahma Temple
- Tomb of Abdul Wahab
- Konda Reddy Fort
Conclusion
A two-day trip to Kurnool will help you explore some of the best places in the city. If you have been to Kurnool before, what is your favourite tourist spot near the city? Let us know in the comment section below.
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