Top places to visit

Top places to visit

Anantapur is a treasure trove of historical, spiritual, and natural attractions. From ancient temples and grand forts to spiritual ashrams and natural landscapes, the district offers a rich blend of heritage and adventure.

1. Lepakshi Temple (Architectural Wonder)

• A 16th-century temple built during the Vijayanagara Empire.
• Famous for its hanging pillar (which does not touch the ground).
• Features intricate carvings, ancient murals, and the giant monolithic Nandi (bull statue).

 Location: 120 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: October – February

2. Penukonda Fort (Historical Landmark)

• A massive fort built during the Vijayanagara period, used as a second capital.
• Houses ancient temples, mosques, and secret tunnels.
• Offers stunning hilltop views of the surrounding landscape.

 Location: 70 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: November – February

3. Puttaparthi & Prasanthi Nilayam (Spiritual Center)

• Birthplace of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, a globally renowned spiritual leader.
• Prasanthi Nilayam Ashram attracts thousands of devotees.
• Known for meditation halls, cultural events, and charitable services.

 Location: 80 km from Anantapur
Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: November (Sai Baba’s birthday celebrations)

4. Dharmavaram (Silk City)

• Famous for handwoven silk sarees with gold zari work.
• Home to Sri Lakshmi Chennakesava Swamy Temple, known for its architectural beauty.
• A must-visit for saree shopping and witnessing traditional weaving techniques.

 Location: 50 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year

5. ISKCON Temple, Anantapur (Peaceful Retreat)

• A beautiful Krishna temple with modern architecture.
• Offers spiritual discourses, bhajans, and vegetarian prasadam.
• A perfect place for peaceful meditation and relaxation.

 Location: Anantapur City
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: Evening hours for Aarti

6. Thimmamma Marrimanu (Largest Banyan Tree)

• Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest Banyan tree in the world.
• Covers 5 acres, with sprawling branches and a sacred shrine beneath it.
• A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

 Location: 100 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for a peaceful experience

7. Gandikota (Grand Canyon of India)

• A stunning gorge formed by the Pennar River, offering breathtaking views.
• Home to Gandikota Fort, built in the 13th century.
• Best for trekking, photography, and adventure tourism.

 Location: 140 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: October – March

8. Rayadurg Fort (Hidden Gem)

• A lesser-known fort with well-preserved bastions and hilltop views.
• Famous for Narasimha Swamy Temple and historical ruins.
• A great spot for trekking and exploring ancient architecture.

 Location: 130 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: November – February

9. Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple (Sacred Site)

• A historic Shiva temple, where the lingam is continuously bathed in water from an underground spring.
• Believed to have miraculous healing properties.
• Surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful ambiance.

 Location: Tadipatri, 60 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: Early morning for temple rituals

10. Kalyan Durg Fort (Ancient Hilltop Fort)

• A fort built by the Vijayanagara rulers, offering panoramic views of Anantapur.
• Ideal for trekking, history lovers, and photography.
• Features ancient reservoirs and stone structures.

 Location: 70 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon

11. Veerapuram Bird Sanctuary (Pelican Paradise)

• A haven for migratory birds, especially spot-billed pelicans.
• Perfect for birdwatching and nature photography.
• Best visited during winter months when the birds nest here.

 Location: 60 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: November – March

12. Yogi Vemana Cave (Mystic Attraction)

• Associated with Yogi Vemana, a famous Telugu saint and poet.
• A spiritual retreat located inside a natural cave.
• Offers a quiet atmosphere for meditation and trekking.

 Location: 100 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience

13. Hemavathi Fort & Temples

• A historical fort with several Chola-era temples.
• Known for its intricate stone carvings and sculptures.
• A must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

 Location: 140 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
 Best Time to Visit: Winter months

14. Belum Caves (Second Largest Caves in India)

• A natural underground cave system, with stalactites, stalagmites, and stunning rock formations.
• Offers guided tours exploring its fascinating tunnels.
• One of India’s longest cave systems, covering 3.5 km.

 Location: 120 km from Anantapur
 Entry Fee: ₹65 per person
 Best Time to Visit: October – February

15. Kalpavruksha Temple (Sacred Wish-Granting Tree)

• A unique temple built around a 400-year-old sacred tree.
• Believed to fulfill wishes when devotees pray with faith.

 Location: Near Anantapur
 Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Anytime

Anantapur is a blend of history, spirituality, adventure, and nature. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, nature lover, or adventure seeker, the city has something for everyone!

✅ Plan your trip to Anantapur and explore these fascinating attractions!