Legend has it that in the 11th century A.D., the Odderas carted stones for construction of a temple at Alampur and halted at the present town of Kurnool before crossing River Tungabhadra. The locals supplied oil for greasing carts here and the place came to be known as Kandenavolu (Town of grease), which subsequently became Kurnool.

The temple of Ahobilam, the Jyotirlinga at Srisailam, the large caves of Belum, all stand testimony to the rich heritage of this district.

Kurnool served as the capital of Andhra Pradesh from 1953 until 1956 when Hyderabad became the capital. Kurnool lies on the Deccan Plateau on the Tungabhadra River. Recognizing its strategic location, rulers of the Hindu Vijayanagar kingdom (1336-1565) built a fort on the site, which was taken over by Muslims. Although the fort was later destroyed, the ruins of a palace, an ancient wall, and bastions still stand on the bluff. Household industry, especially artistic handicrafts, is important to Kurnool"s economy. Manufactures include specialized cotton textiles and hydrogenated oil made from groundnuts (peanuts) grown in the region. The city is also an important regional trade center. A major rail line and a national highway serve Kurnool. The nearest airport is in Hyderabad. Kurnool has several colleges, all affiliated with Andhra University. The majority of the population is Hindu, although Muslims make up a significant minority. Population (1991) 236,800.

Area: 17,658 Sq.Kms

Population (1991) : 29,67,837

Rain Fall: 630 mm

STD Code : 8518

What to wear Cottons for most part of the year. A woolen pullover may be required during winters (Nov - Feb).

Kurnool is well connected by rail and road with other parts of the state. The nearest Airport is at Hyderabad.

The fort, once a strong hold of the Vijayanagar empire, stands in ruins upon the hills. The Jama Masjid in this town is a classic example of Islamic architecture. 

The Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple that dates back to the early 16 th century, is unique in that it is the only temple where all the nine forms of Lord Narasimha are worshipped. Other sites worth seeing are Amrutavalli Tayar Temple; Sannidhi Pushkarini; Bhashyakara Sannidhi and the Upper Ahobilam Narasimha Shrine. Located 160 Kms from Kurnool, it is well connected by road. Best time to visit: July - February 

Alampur 

Alampur, also known as the Dakshina Kailash, is located on the banks of River Tungabhadra. The nine temples or "Nava Brahma Temples were built by Chalukyas of Badami. The main deity here is of Lord Shiva. It is also famous for a Dargah of a peer, Shah Ali Pehelwan, located within the temple complex. Both Hindus & Muslims offer their prayers at this dargah. Yet another important temple is the Sangameshwara Temple built on the confluence of Rivers Tungabhadra and Krishna. It is situated 15 Kms from Kurnool. 

Made known in 1982 by a team of European speleologists led by Mr Gebaner, Belum Caves are the second largest natural caves in Indian Sub-continent after Meghalaya Caves. These underground caves are located on a flat agricultural field, have 3 well like cavities with the central one being the main entrance to the caves. After a descent of 20 meters at the entrance, the cave is horizontal & has a length of 3229 meters. Longer than Borra Caves in Vishakapatnam district, Belum Caves have long passages, spacious chambers, fresh water galleries and siphons. All this makes Belum Caves a geological & archaeological attraction worldwide. Located 125 Kms from Kurnool, the place is well connected by road. 

Gadwal is internationally renowned for its beautiful saris. While the body of these saris is in cotton, the border and pallu are in silk. Adorned with rich traditional designs, the saris are available in several colors. While in Gadwal do visit the Chenna Keshava Temple. Legend has that "Chenna Keshava" a Brahmin was offered as sacrifice by the then ruler to build the fort. In recognition of this the temple was named after the Brahmin as Chenna Keshava Temple. Situated 150 Kms from Hyderabad and 40 kms from Kurnool, it is well coneected by road and regular bus service. 

Located in the heart of Kurnool & supposedly built by the Rajas of Vijayanagaram, Konda Reddy Buruju was a part of Kurnool fort & was used as a prison. One revolutionary Konda Reddy attained martyrdom in this prison. Since then the place is known as Konda Reddy Buruju. Other interesting places to see in & around Kurnool are the Gol Gumbaz, Church, Shirdi Sai Baba temple and Jagannatha Gutta. 

A noted pilgrimage center, Mahanandi is surrounded by dense forests and is famous for the Mahanandishwara temple that dates back to the 7 th century AD. The remarkable feature here is the crystal clear water which flows throughout the year from perennial springs. Other places of interest are Pushkarini, a pond with water so clear and pure that even a pin at the bottom can be seen, Kodanda Ramalayam, and the Kameswari Devi Temple. Situated at a distance of 14 Kms from Nandyal & 80 Kms from Kurnool, it is well connected by rail and road. 

This village has an ancient gateway in ruins. The resemblance of the gateway of India in Mumbai is however noticeable. 

Situated on the banks of the river Tungabhadra, Mantralayam is famous for the "Samadhi" of the well-known saint, Sri Raghavendra Teertha. The temple built over 300 years ago, still attracts a large number of followers and devotees. Other places to see include Raghavendra Swamy Brindavan, the tomb that he entered alive; Anjaneya Swamy Temple; Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy and Venkateswara Swamy Temple. Lying 90 Kms from Kurnool and 256 Kms from Hyderabad, it is well connected by road and rail. 

Extending over an area of 3568 Sq. kms, rich in flora & fauna, the Reserve is home to wildlife such as Tigers, Panthers, Jackals, Striped Hyenas, Small Indian Civet, as well as various species of Deer and Reptiles. The "Chenchu" are primitive tribals indigenous to the area. The magnificent Ethipothala falls located 11 kms from Nagarjunasagar Dam are definitely worth seeing. 

Rollapadu Sanctuary 

Apart from a wide variety of birds and animals, this sanctuary is renowned as one of the last refuges of the endangered Great Indian Bustard, which is a heavy ground bird like a young ostrich or peahen. Located about 60 Kms from Kurnool. 

Also known as Sapta Nandi Sangam, this is the sacred confluence of the Bhavanasi and Krishna Rivers. This scenic spot has a temple with a wooden Lingam. Thousands of pilgrims congregate here on Mahasivaratri day. 

Srinilayam is the holy residence of Bhagawan Balasai Baba in Kurnool. Balasai Baba is a staunch advocate of peace and love among the masses, is well known for his magnanimity and philanthropic services to the people - especially the poor. Of late, a flurry of activities of Sri Balasai Baba Central Trust have also come into prominence whose emphasis is to promote peace among all nations in the world. A number of people from different nations and denominations participate in the social activities. The Trust promotes medical tourism and is attracting a number of tourists to temples, colleges and various other buildings developed by it.

Srisailam is situated in the thick and inaccessible forests of the Nallamalai hills, in the northeastern portion of the Nandikotkur Taluk of Kurnool District. It lies on a straight line west of Vijayawada, right as it were in the centre of South India. It is 73 miles north of Nandyal Railway Station. On leaving Nandyal, one has to proceed to Atmakur, which is at a distance of 38 miles by road and from Atmakur to Nagaluti, which is 10 miles off. There are two routes to reach Srisailam from Nagaluti. One goes via Pedda Cheruvu, and across the hills, and through dense forests by footpath, and the other by road to Dornal, and from Dornal to Srisailam, by the recently opened ghat road. The road from Nagaluti to Pedda Cheruvu is paved with a remarkable series of stone steps, and the forest scenery, and the ravines of the rock are magnificent and hallowed. The Brahmarambha Mallikarjuna Swamy temple at Srisailam houses one of India"s twelve Jyotirlingas (natural stone formations in the shape of a linga). Built in the 14th century, the temple walls are carved with depictions of elephants, hunting scenes and Lord Shiva in different manifestations. Apart from the main temple, there are other places that are well worth a visit . Pandava Pratistitha Lingas where legend has it that the Pandavas worshipped Lord Mallikarjuna . Thriphaleswara Tree which is believed to bless childless couples . Nava Brahmalayams which depict various manifestations of Lord Shiva . Mallika Gundam, a well that devotees believe has medicinal properties . Vridda Mallikarjuna, where an aged linga is worshipped . Sita Pratistitha Linga, an attractive linga believed to have been installed by Goddess Sita . Sri Brahmarambha Devi Temple, one of the 18 Sakti Pitas o Sankaramutt, which conducts a Vedic school . Arana Veereswara Temple . Bayalu Veerabhadra Swamy Temple . Ankalamma Temple . Shivaji Spurti Kendra, where Chatrapati Shivaji had stayed . Patala Ganga Bath Ghats. 

Around Srisailam are many other places to visit . Sikhareswaram, site of the Sikhareswara Swamy temple on the highest peak in the Nallamalai Hills . Hatakeswaram, a temple of Lord Shiva . Paladhara and Panchadhara are natural springs flowing at a spot where Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have performed penance . Sivanandalahari temple of Sakthi Ganapati . Srisailam Project which is one of the biggest hydel projects, with the dam stretching 512 metres. 

The shrine of Mahanandiswara and the surrounding temples attract pilgrims, admires of architectural beauty and those who enjoy scenic loveliness. The annual temple festival is in February-March. 

It is well-known for the temple of Uma Maheshwar, built in the 15 th century, which has a magnificent Gopura at the entrance and a pond surrounded by animated friezes of court and mythological scenes carved on stone. Other places of interest include a huge Nandiswara; Agasthya Pushkarini; and scenic natural caves. In the vicinity are the Garimi Reddy Gari Achchamma Mutt; Kasaiah Thota; Kotturi Subramanya Swamy Temple; Nandavaram Chandeswari Devi Temple; and Ravvalakonda. Located 90 Kms from Kurnool, it is well connected by frequently plying buses. 

Tirupati, the holy city is located in the southeastern part of Andhra Pradesh, in Chittoor district. Known as the abode of the "Kaliyuga" deity Lord Venkateswara popularly known as Balaji, Tirupati is famous for the Venkateswara temple in the sacred Tirumala hills at an elevation of 860m. One of the most important pilgrimage centers in India, the temple draws millions of pilgrims and is believed to be the busiest pilgrimage centre in the world. In fact, the government has proposed to give special status to the town on the lines of the Vatican. Lying at the southern tip of the Eastern ghats in Andhra Pradesh, the district has a number of perennial water falls and vast forest cover. Tirupati town itself, has several temples and is famous for its red wooden toys, copper and brass idols. Tirupati has for centuries remained a destination divine and this feeling grows on one as one goes round the various temples and spots of natural beauty surrounding this major town. Around 700 kms from Hyderabad, Tirupati is situated amidst the lush green Eastern Ghats in Chittoor district.

Population: 189,000

Temperature :Max.Min.

                        Summer430C22.30C

                        Winter320C130C

Best Season : Throughout the year

STD Code : 08574

Air: Tirupati airport is 15km from the city. Flights to Tirupati are available from Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai and Vijayawada. Indian Airlines, Opposite Central Bus stand Ph: 22349

Rail: Tirupati railway station is in the centre of the town. Good rail links with Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad etc. There are trains via Renigunta (10km from Tirupati) or Gudur nearby. From Renigunta / Gudur one can reach Tirupati by train, bus, or taxi. 

Bus: APSRTC (Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) buses run from all the important places in the south and between Tirupati and Tirumala. TTD also runs buses between Tirupati and Tirumala, free of cost. There are two bus stations, Sri Venkateshwara and Sri Padmavathy near the railway station to take the pilgrims to Tirumala. 

Nestled among high Eastern Ghats, Tirumala can be reached only after covering the range of hills. The presiding deity Lord Venkateswara is also referred to as Lord of the Seven Hills. Patronized by Pallavas, Pandyas, Cholas, Vijayanagar kings and later by the king of Mysore, the temple finds a mention in the Sastras and Puranas. The main temple is a magnificent example of the fine Indian temple architecture. Both the Vimana over the sanctum sanctorum and the Dhwajasthambam (temple flag-post) are plated with gold. 

This museum is situated at the Sri Govindarajaswamy Temple compound, Tirupati. Visit: 0800 - 2000, Entry fee -Re.1. This museum contains exhibits of temple arts. The entrance of the Tirumalai temple exhibits an interesting collection of Indian musical instruments. 

The Institute has the collection of stone images, wood and metal images, pottery, coins and inscriptions. Visit : 1000 -1630. Free. 

Akasa Ganga 

About 3 kms north of the main temple is a perennial stream that is said to flow from the feet of the deity. The Akasa Ganga, as it is called, is considered sacred as the Vedas describe it as flowing from the feet of Lord Vishnu. The water from here is used for the daily rituals in the temple. 

Located 11 km from Tirupati, in Chittoor district, Chandragiri was the former capital of the mighty Vijayanagar Empire. The fort here was built on a 180m high rock. The fortifications, "Raja Mahal" with its romantic lily pond and the "Rani mahal" are well preserved. The Museum in Raja Mahal contains Chola and Vijayanagara bronzes. 

Goddess Alamelumanga Temple 

The temple of Goddess Alamelumanga, the divine consort of Lord Venkateswara, is at Tiruchanur near Tirupati. One more temple is dedicated to the Goddess at Srinivasa Mangapuram, 12 kms from Tirupati. 

One of the most important temples in the heart of Tirupati is Sri Govindaraja Swami Temple, which was consecrated by Saint Ramanujacharya in 1130 AD. It is built by the Nayakas, the successors to the Vijayanagar empire. The temple has an impressive outer gopuram. The inner most gopuram is the earliest dating from the 14th-15th centuries. The main shrines are dedicated to Vishnu and Krishna. 

Horsley hills, situated at an altitude of 1,265m is a hill resort located 151-km from Tirupati and named after WD Horsley, who was the collector of Cuddapah district. Horsley chose this spot for his summer residence. The place is luxuriously green and cool, with a maximum summer temperature of 32°C, and minimum of 20°C. 

The present temple of Lord Ganesha was constructed in the 11th century by king Kullottunga of the Chola dynasty and further developed in 1336 by the kings of Vijayanagar. One peculiarity of the Idol is that it eternally grows in size. To testify the fact that the Lord is growing, the Silver "Kawacham" that was manufactured 50 years ago is now too small for the idol. 

This perennial waterfall located in the Nagari valley near Tirupati in Chittoor district originates from a fracture in a sheet rock. The water is clear and is considered sacred. Said to be of substantial mineral value, the water is believed to have curative powers. APTDC Punnami hotel here has cottages. 

Lord Shiva is said to have appeared before the Saint Kapila at this historic site. The cascading waterfalls from the holy hills are a treat to the eyes. 

Located in the heart of the Tirupati town, a Chola king built the Kodandaramaswami Temple in the 10th century AD. The presiding deities here are Sita, Rama and Lakshmana. The temple of Anjaneyaswami, which is directly opposite, is a sub-shrine of this temple. 

It is a small village, 16 Kms away from the Hindupur railway station at Anantapur district. The beautiful temples are the main attraction of this village. The Vijayanagar styled temples have number of paintings on its wall and ceiling. The hanging tower supported from top is a surprise for the visitors. The monolithic bull mount of Shiva (Nandhi) is perhaps the largest sculpture of its kind. 

Located 5 km north of Tirupati, the Papa Vinasanam dam site is serene and beautiful. The dam is filled with fish. 

In Tiruchanur, about 3 km south of Tirupati is the temple of goddess Padmavati, the consort of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji). The large temple is also known as "Alamelumangapuram" and it is said that a visit to Tirumala is fruitful only after visiting the Sri Padmavati Devi temple. 

Narayanavanam 

This famous garden is believed to be the venue of the sacred marriage between Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavati. 

Situated on Tirumala, this is a rare geographical arch and the only one of its kind in the whole of Asia. Two other such arches are known to exist in the world - the Rainbow Arch of Utah in USA and the Arch of "Cut Through" of UK. This is one of the rarest "geological faults" of India and geologists compute the age of the arch as 1500 million years. This is also a rare geological feature called "eparchean unconformity". This natural arch is believed to have formed due to intensified weathering and erosion of stream action and has withstood the torque of nature. The length of this arch is 25 feet and the height 10 feet. 

From among the legends lying behind temples, one of the strangest is from Srikalahasti, 36 kms from the temple town of Tirupati. There is a temple of Shiva in the form of a Vayu Linga and the legend behind it is that the deity was worshipped by a spider (Sri) that spun a web over it, while a snake (Kala) placed a gem a the linga and an elephant (Hasti) washed the linga with water. The temple lies on the banks of the River Swarnamukhi in a valley. There are frequent buses to Srikalahasti. 

Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple, is situated about 3-km north at the foot of the Tirumala Hills. This is the only temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, in Tirupati. Annual " Brahmotsavams" and festivals like " Vinayaka Chavithi", " Maha Shivaratri", " Skhanda Shasthi" and " Annabhishekam" are performed in a grand manner. The sacred and beautiful waterfall, "Kapila Teertham" or "Alwar Teertham" is located here. 

Spread over 506 sq. kms of greenery, Sri Venkateswara Sanctuary & National Park at Tirupati are an adventure"s delight. The rich wildlife provides a great outing. 

A sacred tank adjacent to the Balaji temple, a dip here is considered a custom before entering the temple. According to legend, Swami Pushkarini was a pleasure tank of Lord Vishnu in Vaikuntam and brought to earth by Garuda for the sport of Lord Venkateswara. 

Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami temple is located 12 km west of Tirupati at Srinivasa Mangapuram. It is believed that Lord Venkateswara stayed here after his marriage with Sri Padmavati Devi, before proceeding to Tirumala. 

Situated in Narayanavanam, 40-km from Tirupati, there is another Kalyana Venkateswaraswami temple. Lord Sri Venkateswaraswami and Sri Padmavati Devi, daughter of Akasa Maharaja were married here. 

Sri Prasanna Venkateswaraswami is situated in Appalayagunta, 4-km from Tirupati. It is believed that Sri Venkateswaraswami, after marrying Sri Padmavati Devi, blessed Sri Siddeswara and other sages here. 

This waterfall is considered the threshold of the Hills of Tirumala on which the shrine of Lord Venkateswara is located. Nestled in lush forests, the 60-metre fall is a perennial one and standing under the cascade is said to cleanse the mind and body. Local transport can be engaged from Tirupati to reach Talakona. APTDC Punnami hotel has cottages here. 

Mantralayam or Manchale is a town located in the Kurnool District of Andhra Pradesh, at a distance of 256 km from the capital city of Hyderabad. Mantralayam, the abode of the Samadhi of Vaishnava saint Shri Raghavendra Swamy, is a famous pilgrimage destination in South India.

Mantralayam is a popular pilgrim destination located on the banks of River Tungabhadra in the Kurnool District of Western Andhra Pradesh, bordering the state of Karnataka. It is a small village visited by the ardent followers and disciples of Sri Raghavendra Teertha.

Samadhi Temple or Moola Brindavanam is the prime attraction of Mantralayam. Other attractions include Manchalamma Temple, Lakshmi-Venkateshvara temple and Vedic Pathashala, which are located within the Mantralayam Mutt complex. 

Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple, the 200 year old Narasimha Swamy Temple of Chinna Tumbalam and Urukunda Lakshmi-Narasimha Erranna Temple are the popular pilgrim spots near Mantralayam. 

Bichchali, Kowthalam and Navabrindavan of Anegundi are the must-visit holy sites for the devotees of Sri Raghavendra Teertha and the followers of Dwaita philosophy. 

Mantralayam also offers one-day trips to Adoni, Alampur and Anegundi which are some of the famous historical places of Andhra Pradesh. 

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport 

200 KM near.

MANTHRALAYAM RD 

Andhra Pradesh,Kurnool,Kosigi 

15 KM near.  

KOSGI 

Andhra Pradesh,Kurnool,Kosigi 

25 KM near.  

SECUNDERABAD JN 

Andhra Pradesh,Hyderabad,Hyderabad 

225 KM near. 

Major Near By Railway Station that connects to Maximum Number of Main stations in India.  

MUMBAI MAIL 

CHENNAI CENTRAL , Tamil Nadu   to   MUMBAI CST , Maharashtra 

Stops at KOSGI

NED SBC EXP 

NANDED , Maharashtra   to   BANGALORE CY JN , Karnataka 

Stops at KOSGI

SBC NANDED EXP 

BANGALORE CY JN , Karnataka   to   NANDED , Maharashtra 

Stops at KOSGI

HYB KOP SPL 

HYDERABAD DECAN , Andhra Pradesh   to   KOLHAPUR , Maharashtra 

Stops at MANTHRALAYAM RD

YESVANTPUR SPL 

AHMADABAD JN , Gujarat   to   YASVANTPUR JN , Karnataka 

Stops at MANTHRALAYAM RD

YPR ADI EXPRES 

YASVANTPUR JN , Karnataka   to   AHMADABAD JN , Gujarat 

Stops at MANTHRALAYAM RD

KOP HYDERABAD SP 

KOLHAPUR , Maharashtra   to   HYDERABAD DECAN , Andhra Pradesh 

Stops at MANTHRALAYAM RD

LOKMANYA TT EXP 

COIMBATORE JN , Tamil Nadu   to   LOKMANYATILAK , Maharashtra 

Stops at MANTHRALAYAM RD

COIMBATORE EXP 

LOKMANYATILAK , Maharashtra   to   COIMBATORE JN , Tamil Nadu 

Stops at MANTHRALAYAM RD

CHENNAI MAIL 

MUMBAI CST , Maharashtra   to   CHENNAI CENTRAL , Tamil Nadu 

Stops at MANTHRALAYAM RD

March is best time to visit Mantralayam.

Ahobilam is an important pilgrimage center located in Kurnool District of Andhra Pradesh at an altitude of above 3000 feet. At a distance of 50 kms from Nandyal, 120 Kms from Kurnool and 340 Kms from Hyderabad, this is said to be the place where the Lord Narasimha (an incarnation of Vishnu - meaning `Human with Lion head`) killed Hiranyakasipu and saved Prahalada. The temples are built by Vijayanara kings around 16th century, there are few inscriptions indicating the involvement of Chalukyas of 8th century.

Situated amidst dense Nallamala Forest, Ahobilam is one of the 108 Divya Desams. This place is also called as Nava Narasimha Kshetra since Lord Narasimha is worshipped in 9 different forms and separate temples exist for all the forms. Few of these temples have easy access, but most of them have to be reached by difficult treks through thick forest and rocky paths. The holy shrines of Ahobilam are praised by the famous Tamil poet Thirumangai Mannan. The consort of the Lord, Mahalakshmi took avatar as Chenchulakshmi among local tribal and married the Lord. 

The town is divided into tow parts, Lower Ahobilam and Upper Ahobilam. All the 9 shrines can be visited in 2 days with help of guide. Ahobilam is very well connected by bus with nearest town Allagadda (20 Kms away), which is connected to Kurnool, Cudappah, any many other towns in Andhra Pradesh.

Ahobilam By Train (Nearest station )

Ahobilam does not have a train station, and the nearest station is , at a distance of 9511 kms from Ahobilam.

Best time to visit Ahobilam is between August to December.

Kadapa is one of the sprawling cities in Andhra Pradesh. It is now a contemporary city standing in contrast with the ancient and historical ones. The town is surrounded on three sides by the Nallamala and Palakonda hills. Cuddapah has a rich flow of rivers with five rivers flowing through it- Penna, Chitravathi, Kunderu, Papaghni, Sagileru and Cheyeru. Thus agriculture is one of the main sources of occupation for the people living in Cuddapah. Rice, jowar, cotton, turmeric, maize, chilies, sugar cane, sesame, melons and peanuts are grown in large quantities in this region.

`Kadapa` got its name thus from a Telugu word `Gadapa`, which means threshold. The city is so called because it is the gateway to the sacred pilgrimage centre, Tirumala (the abode of Lord Venkateshwara), for those travelling from north.

There is an ancient temple of Lord Venkateshwara, called as Devunikadapa, in the city, from which the city got its name as `Kadapa`. The folklore say and believe that one has to visit this temple in the city before proceeding to visit Lord Venkateshwara temple at Tirumala.

The city has many prominent places in and around that are worth visiting. The beautiful architecture of the temples and other monuments that still adorn the region stand as the evidence for the rich heritage and culture of the bygone days. A small village called Gandi situated in the valley-like place is famous for the temple of Lord Hanuman, is worth visiting. There is a fort in Gandikota standing for ages, a place not to be missed. A legendary village called Kandimallayapalli, famous for the Brahmamgari Matham, is a place of religious order and makes it a good place to visit.

There are also a couple of temples like Eswaramma temple, Poleramma temple, Siddaiah Jeeva Samadhi and the Veerabrahmam Reservoir that are worth paying a visit. Pushpagiri, Vontimitta and Tallapaka are also religious places with very beautiful temples. All the three places are legendary and famous for the temples of Chenna Kesava Swami temple, Sri Kodandarama Swami temple.

Kadapa By Train (Nearest station Cuddapah)

Kadapa does not have a train station, and the nearest station is Cuddapah, at a distance of 1 kms from Kadapa.

October to March is the best time to visit Kadapa.

Vellore is a town bisected by the Palar river, one of many tributaries of the life giving Cauvery flowing west to east in south India. Vellore is famous for its historic Fort constructed in the 13th Century, and has the hallmark of grandeur with its double-walled fortress with a massive moat and high gateways that lead to the gigantic Jalakandeswarar temple with its ornate Kalyana Mandapam in the interior. Vellore itself has a place in India`s history of independence, since it is here that the first movement to free India was initiated by the Vellore Sepoy Mutiny some 200 years back, on 9th July 1806.

Vellore is well connected with its neighbouring cities. The bus stand is located near Chelliamman Temple in Samuel Nagar. Vellore is located on NH 46 that connects Bangalore and Chennai. Chennai is 125 km from Vellore, Triupati is 90 km and Bangalore is 200 km away from Vellore.

Vellore has three major railway stations. Katpadi Juntion is located 5 km north of main Bus stand and it serves all north-bound (Anantpur, Vijaywada, Hyderabad); east-bound (Chennai) and west-bound (Bangalore) trains. Vellore Cantonment is on the Villupuram-Tirupati broad gauge line, 10 km from Katpadi Junction. Currently EMU and passenger trains to Tirupati, Chennai and Arakonnam depart from here. Vellore Town Station is on the line connecting Katpadi Junction to Villipuram Junction. 

The nearest international airports are at Chennai (130 km) and Bengaluru (200 km). Tirupati Airport (100 km) is the nearest domestic airport to Vellore.

The vellore fort is located just 6 km from the vellore railway station and can be easily reached by auto fare not exceeding 80 INR or a bus. 

The fort has a temple - a protected heritage site; which has a history of its main idol stolen. The carvings and decorations are totally intact and the intricate details are spell bounding. 

I was told that the main Shiva temple is 1000 years old. 

You feel very peaceful and calm in the premises. 

The temple remains closed in the afternoon between 1:00-4:00

There are no food joints in teh premises, you might have to walk a bit to reach the main road , so carry your water bottles.

mirthi zoological park is situated under the Javadu Hills of Tellaiacross Amirthi river which is 25 kms away from vellore. It also is atourism spot. This zoo logical  park was  started  in  the year 1967October. The  area of  the  park  is 25 hectares  and  one  can findbeautiful  water  falls.  There  are also  different kinds of birds andanimals.   Swings,  Seesaw  etc.,  are  there  for  children  to  play.Numerous kinds of herbal plants and trees  and sandal wood treesalso grow here. There are 2 rest houses and five members can stayis one dormitory. There is a meditating hall where one can have fullconcentration and be in serenity.

This zoological  park  has  been  recognized  recently  and  so  the  state Government  has taken  initiative to develop this area.  The entrance fees  is only Rs 2/- per head, for cycles Rs.3/-  for  van  Rs.5/-  for motor cyclesRs.2/-.

The Golden Temple was built in a short span of 7 years. It was inaugurated on August 24, 2007. The consecration ceremony was witnessed by thousands of devotees. Since then, the temple has attracted hundreds of thousands of devotees; often breaching the 1 lakh mark on special occasions. The temple has also changed the face of hiruamalaikodi village and the nearby town - Vellore. In the coming years, the temple envisages to create a positive influence on the society and ultimately bring about a change.

Best time to visit Vellore is October to March.

Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu is the fourth largest metropolis in India. Located on a 17 km stretch of the Coramandel coast, the city is trisected by the waterways of Cooum and Adyar and the Buckingham Canal. With a population of 6 million people, Chennai is a vibrant city ever growing, expanding and changing every year.

Popularly regarded as the "Gateway to the South", Chennai presents a culture that is distinctly different from that of northern India. Music, dance and all other art forms of the South are cherished and nurtured in this city, which, though industrialized, continues to be traditional and conventional in many ways.

Chennai is a gracious city that has a clear skyline, long sandy beaches, parks, historic landmarks and tourist infrastructure facilities which make it a convenient entry point or base to start your tour of Tamil Nadu and South India. As far as religion is concerned, history has certainly left its mark on this city, which is believed to have been the place of St. Thomas, in the outskirt of the city. There are a number of churches in Chennai that are connected with the life and times of this apostle. There are also several ancient temples around Chennai, and, within the city itself are two magnificent temples - a temple in Triplicane and another in Mylapore.

Area: 174 sq. kms.

Population: 3,795,028 (1991 census)

Altitude: Sea Level

Climate:Max.Min.

              Summer370C21.100C

              Winter320C19.810C

Rainfall: 1,272 mm.

Season: Tropical Throughout The Year

Clothing: Tropical

Languages: Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, Urdu and English.

Telephone Access Code:++91 44

Chennai is an international airport connected by several international airlines while the domestic traffic is handled by Indian Airlines. There are regular flights to several cities around the world from the International Terminal. There are also daily flights to all important centres in India from the Domestic Terminal. There are two major railway stations in Chennai. Chennai Central is the bigger one and connects the city by broad gauge as also broad gauge trains to all major cities and towns of India. The Egmore station is the starting point for both meter gauge and broad gauge trains proceeding to destinations within the state as well as trains to neighbouring Kerala. Chennai is also accessible by road from any part of India.

Air: Kamaraj National and Anna International Airports are situated at Meenambakkam about 20 kms. from city. Can also be reached by suburban train services.

Rail: Chennai is connected by rail with all major towns and cities in India. Main Railway Stations: Central and Egmore. Central linking north and west and Egmore south.

Road: Chennai is connected by good network of roads with all important places in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India. You may rent a car with private cab owners. Pre-paid taxis and airport coaches are available at airports.

Fort St. George - Fort St. George occupies a place of pride and prominence in Chennai. The British East India Company under the direct supervision of Francis Day and Andrew Cogon built it in 1640 AD. This bastion achieved name from St. George, the patron saint of England. The fort houses St. Mary"s Church and fort museum. St. Mary"s Church the oldest Anglican Church in India built in 1680 and the tombstones in its courtyard are the oldest British tombstones in India. This ancient prayer house solemnized the marriages of Robert Clive and Governor Elinu-Yale, who later founded the Yale University in the States. The Fort Museum is the repository of rare exhibits of weapons, uniforms, coins, costumes, medals and some other artifacts dating back to the British period. The flagstaff at Fort St. George is still the tallest in India. South of the Fort is the War Memorial, a graceful monument built in 1939 in memory of the warriors who sacrificed their lives during the First World War. The Island Grounds, the biggest lung space in the city is situated on an island formed by the river Cooum. This ground is the eventful venue of Trade and the Tourist Fairs held periodically which are seasonal attractions. The High Court with the decorative domes and corridors reminiscent of Indo/Saracenic architecture and the adjacent Parry"s corner are the important landmarks of Chennai. This area is always crowded and active. Built in 1892, the High Court of Chennai is believed to be the second largest judicial complex in the world.

San Thome Cathedral Basilica - San Thome at the southern end of Marina derives its name from St Thomas, the apostle of Christ who is believed to have come to Madras sometime during 52 AD. He was killed on St Thomas Mount just outside the city in 78 AD. and was interned in San Thome beach where a church was later built. Several years later, another church was built further inland and his mortal remains were transferred from the old church to the new one. In 1606 the church was rebuilt as a cathedral and in 1896 it was made a basilica. The beautiful stained glass window at the basilica portrays the story of St Thomas and the central hall has 14 wooden plaques depicting scenes from the last days of Christ. In the cathedral is a 3ft. high statue of Virgin Mary, which is believed to have been brought from Portugal in 1543.

Theosophical Society - The world headquarters of the Theosophical Society, formed to facilitate and encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy and science is situated in beautiful sylvan settings in Adyar. The society was founded by Madame Blavatsky and Col. Olott in USA, and later moved to Adyar in 1882. Apart from shrines of all faiths and the peaceful Garden of Remembrance, there is a 95-year old library which has a very good collection of rare Oriental manuscripts written on palm leaves and parchment.

Along Elliot"s Beach - Following the road along the coast down south from Marina one will come to Elliot"s beach where you can spend a few hours relaxing. At the end of this beach are the Velankanni church and the Ashtalakshmi temple. Though the church is much smaller than the original one at Velankanni it attracts its own share of pilgrims. The Ashtalakshmi temple dedicated to goddess Lakshmi looks quite different from the usual South Indian temples as it is a modern granite tier construction, not even 20 years old.

Kalakshetra - In Thiruvanmiyur, beyond Elliot"s beach, is Kalakshetra or "Temple of Art". It was founded in 1936 by Rukmini Devi Arundale to train, encourage and revive interest in Bharatanatyam, which is the classical dance form of the state. This institution is among the finest of its kind in the country and is run on the ancient gurukulam system. Throughout the year Kalakshetra conducts music recital and dance performances in different parts of Chennai. Details about venue and timings can be obtained from the daily newspapers or ascertained from the information desk of the 

Government of India Tourist Office at 154, Anna Salai or from the Govt. of Tamil Nadu Tourist Office, Panagal Building, Saidapet, Chennai 600015.

Birla Planetarium - The Birla Planetarium at Kotturpuram, between Adyar and Guindy, is the most modern planetarium in the country. Adjoining the planetarium is a Periyar Science and Technology Museum which will be of interest to students and other science scholars.

Valluvar Kottam - The memorial to the poet-saint Tiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is, in fact, the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. A life-size statue of the saint has been installed in the chariot, which is 33m. tall. The 133 chapters of his famous work Thirukkural have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. The auditorium at Valluvar Kottam is said to be the largest in Asia and can accommodate about 4000 people. It stands as a modern memorial to the great poet who represents the glorious culture of the Tamils.

Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur) - Its main attractions are: Safari parks, a nocturnal animal house, an Aquarium, Natural Museum etc.

The Government Museum - National Art Gallery, Gallery of Contemporary Arts and Children"s Museum also lie in the Museum Complex.

Marina - Marina Beach, the pride of Chennai, is the second largest beach in the world and has a wide sandy foreshore. Situated on the beach, the Anna and MGR samadhis, which are the memorials of the most popular former Chief Ministers of the State attract good crowd everyday. An aquarium is also located on the Marina Beach. Some of the most beautiful buildings in Chennai such as the University of Madras,Senate-House,Chepauk Palace, Presidency College, P.W.D office and Ice House are located on the beach drive

Kapaleswarar Temple - Not far from Triplicane, in Mylapore, there is yet another 8th century Pallava temple. The temple "Gopuram" (tower) is characteristic of Dravidian style architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has some beautiful sculptures, among which the bronze idols of 63 Saivite Saints (Nayanmars), which adorn the outer courtyard are rare specimens. Also in the courtyard under the old Punnai tree is a small shrine depicting Goddess Parvathi in the form of a Peacock Worshipping Lord Shiva.It is from this legend that Mylapore derived it"s name -"myil" meaning peacock and "oor" meaning town.Mylapore swarms with life during the Arupathu Moovar festival that is held in March-April every year.

Sri Parthasarathy Temple - This temple in Triplicane is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The Pallavas originally built the temple in the 8th century A.D. though additions were later made to it by the Chola and Vijayanagara kings.

Santhome Cathedral Basilica - This gothic style cathedral is built above the tomb of St. Thomas.

V.G.P Golden Beach Resort: This beach resort is popular not just with the people of the city, but also with tourists. There is an entertainment arcade for children and for adults. There are folk dance performances apart from an Art Centre, which sells handicrafts and articles made out of seashells. The beach is clean and ideal for sunbathing.

Vandalur: Spread over an area of 1,265 acres, the Anna Zoological Park at Vandalur is the largest in South Asia and has a rich variety of different species of mammals, reptiles and birds. The animals roam in natural surroundings and there is also a special enclosure for nocturnal creatures.

Kanchipuram (75 kms.): One of India"s seven great mythologically famous Hindu cities, Kancheepuram has a plethora of temples, each one unique in its own way.Besides being the Golden City of temples,Kancheepuram has for over four centuries, been famous for its weavers who till today weave sarees using the best quality silk and pure gold thread. It has been the centre of culture and learning and Adhi Shankaracharya, one of the famous Gurus of India has established his ashram (Kamakoti Peetam) here.

Mamallapuram (58 kms.):Built in the 7th century, this ancient Pallava port is the site of several antique sculptural marvels. The only remaining shore temple is a spectacular two-spired shrine which is unique in that it houses shrines for Vishnu and Shiva.

The Pallavas had perfected the art of sculpting rocks to build temples without using brick, mortar or timber and the five monolith Raths (chariots) stand as the surviving masterpieces of Pallava sculpture.

Arjuna"s penance is the world"s largest bas relief measuring 27m by 9m. This sculptural panel shows animals, Gods and Angels contemplating the descent of the Ganges from it"s source in the Himalayas and also depicts popular fables from the Panchatantra. Besides these, the Mahishamardhini Cave, the Krishna Mandapam and Varsha Mandapam also have beautiful reliefs depicting Vishnu reclining on the coils of seven-headed serpent, Krishna as incarnation of Vishnu lifting mount Goverdhana to protect his kinsman from the wrath of Indra respectively.

Vedanthangal (85 kms.): Vedanthangal is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. It is a marshy, 30 hectare park with lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. The majority of these birds can be seen between November and February. The variety of birds include Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Pelicans, Sandpipers, White Ibis, Cormorants,Blue winged teals and Swans.

Crocodile Bank: (44 kms.) Not far from Mamallapuram, this crocodile breeding and research centre is run by Romulus Whittaker. Here several species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are bred in captivity. The reptiles are kept in their natural habitat in open pools and can be viewed from safe proximity. This farm breeds crocodile to augment the crocodile population of the wildlife sanctuaries.

Muttukadu: (36 kms) The backwaters of Muttukadu have been developed by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation to serve as a scenic picnic spot and a centre for water sports. In February every year, a windsurfing regatta is organised in Muttukadu. Competitions in windsurfing and other water sports are also held. Training and demonstration programs are held for youth.

Covelong: (48 kms) The remains of the Fort have now been converted into a luxury beach resort, which offers facilities for windsurfing and swimming. An ancient Catholic Church, a mosque and the ruins of the Fort make interesting viewing from this 5 Star hotel.