Kurnool is the administrative headquarters of Kurnool district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Often called “The Gateway of Rayalaseema,” it holds historical significance as the capital of Andhra State from October 1, 1953, to October 31, 1956.
places to visit in Kurnool
Srisailam Devasthanam
Srisailam Devasthanam is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna, beautifully located atop the Nallamalai Hills. Known as one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in India, Srisailam is an important spiritual destination for devotees.
Srisailam Tiger Reserve
The Srisailam Tiger Reserve is the largest tiger reserve in India, spanning across five districts: Kurnool, Prakasam, Guntur, Nalgonda, and Mahbubnagar. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife and a key conservation area for tigers.
Mantralayam Temple
Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Mantralayam Temple is famous for the Brindavan of Raghavendra Swami. The saint, who lived in the 17th century, entered into a living samadhi in front of his disciples, making it a place of great significance for devotees.
Mahanandi
Mahanandi is a village located to the east of the Nallamala Hills near Nandyal in Kurnool District. Surrounded by forests, Mahanandi is known for its nine Nandi shrines, collectively called Nava Nandulu, which are scattered within a 15 km radius.
Belum Caves
Belum Caves is the longest and largest cave system open to the public in the Indian subcontinent. The caves are famous for their stunning speleothems, including impressive stalactites and stalagmites, making them a popular tourist attraction.
Rollapadu Sanctuary
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Kurnool district, is primarily known as a habitat for the endangered Great Indian Bustard. The sanctuary has witnessed a decline in their numbers in recent years, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.
Ahobilam
Ahobilam, located in the Allagadda mandal of Kurnool district, is a significant holy site. It is 70 km from Nandyal and 150 km from Kurnool, offering devotees a chance to visit temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha.
Yaganti Temple
The Sri Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Kurnool District. Built following Vaishnavaite traditions, it is a famous pilgrimage site, known for its serene atmosphere and historic significance.
Alampur Jogulamba Devi Temple
Located in the Jogulamba Gadwal district of Telangana, Alampur is the meeting point of the Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers. It is often referred to as Dakshina Kashi and is also known for the Navabrahmeshwara Theertha and as the Western Gateway of Srisailam.
Gadwal Fort
Gadwal Fort is a historic structure in the town of Gadwal, Telangana. The fort is home to several ancient temples, including the famous Sri Chennakesava Swamy temple. Another prominent temple, Jammulamma, is located west of the town.
Konda Reddy Buruju
Konda Reddy Buruju is a historic fort known for offering panoramic views of the surrounding city. It stands as a significant landmark, reflecting the region’s rich history and architecture.
Best Time to Visit Kurnool
Kurnool experiences a hot climate for most of the year, with high temperatures and low chances of rainfall. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March, when the weather is more bearable. During this period, temperatures are relatively mild, making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
If you prefer warmer weather, March to May are the hottest months, with temperatures often reaching around 41.5°C during the day and rarely dropping below 28.2°C at night. However, these months can be quite scorching, so visitors looking to avoid the intense heat should plan their trip outside this peak summer period.
