Kurnool – The Gateway of Rayalaseema
Kurnool, often known as the Gateway of Rayalaseema, is a historic and culturally rich district in Andhra Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, it boasts a glorious past filled with dynasties, forts, temples, and caves that tell the story of ancient South India. With its scenic landscapes, ancient architecture, and spiritual landmarks, Kurnool is a perfect blend of history and nature.
Altitude
Kurnool lies at an average altitude of 273 meters (896 ft) above sea level, surrounded by rocky terrain and rolling hills.
Distance from Airport / Railway Station
Nearest Airport:
- Kurnool Airport (KJB) – Located about 18 km from the city center, offering flights to major cities like Hyderabad and Chennai.
- Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (HYD) – Approximately 200 km away for broader connectivity.
Railway Station:
- Kurnool City Railway Station (KRNT) – A major railhead connecting to Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Vijayawada.
Best Time to Visit
- October to February – Cool and pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and exploration.
- March to June – Hot and dry, suitable for short temple visits or evening tours.
- July to September – Refreshing monsoon season when the surrounding hills turn lush green.
Top Attractions
- Konda Reddy Fort – A 16th-century fort built by Vijayanagara rulers, standing as a proud symbol of Kurnool’s heritage.
- Belum Caves – India’s second-longest natural caves, featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
- Ahobilam – A sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Narasimha, nestled amid the Nallamala Hills.
- Mahanandi Temple – A famous Shiva temple surrounded by natural springs, known for its pure and continuous water flow.
- Oravakallu Rock Garden – A scenic landscape of eroded volcanic rock formations, ideal for photography and picnics.
- Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary – Home to the endangered Great Indian Bustard and other rare bird species.
- Srisailam – Located nearby, one of India’s twelve Jyotirlingas, drawing thousands of devotees every year.
- Yaganti Temple – A unique rock-cut temple of Lord Shiva, famous for its growing Nandi statue.
Adventure Activities
- Cave Exploration – Discover the mesmerizing depths of Belum Caves.
- Trekking – Hike through the Nallamala Hills and scenic trails near Ahobilam.
- Wildlife Watching – Spot rare birds and animals in Rollapadu Sanctuary.
- Photography – Capture the raw beauty of Konda Reddy Fort and Oravakallu Rock Garden.
- Spiritual Trails – Visit temples like Mahanandi and Yaganti for divine experiences.
How to Reach
By Air:
Kurnool Airport offers direct flights to Hyderabad and Chennai. For more connectivity, travelers can use Hyderabad Airport (200 km).
By Rail:
Kurnool City Railway Station (KRNT) is well-connected with major cities in South India.
By Road:
Located on NH40, NH44, and NH167, Kurnool has excellent road connectivity to Hyderabad, Anantapur, Tirupati, and Bengaluru. Regular buses and taxis are available.
Ideal Trip Duration
3–4 days to explore historical sites, caves, temples, and nature around Kurnool.
Final Thoughts
Kurnool is a land where legends meet landscapes. From the mysterious depths of Belum Caves to the sacred serenity of Ahobilam, every site tells a story of devotion, courage, and time. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a pilgrim, or a nature lover, Kurnool welcomes you with its rich heritage and timeless beauty — a true gateway to Andhra’s soul.
