Situated amidst the scenic Deccan Plateau, Kurnool is the former capital of Andhra state. As you become a part of Kurnool tourism, imagine the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire reflected in the ruins of its once-mighty fort. Delve deeper into the past at the Belum Caves, one of the largest cave systems in India, where every stalactite and stalagmite whispers secrets of a bygone era. Explore the bazaars, savour the flavoursome Andhra cuisine, and experience the warmth of the local people. This Kurnool travel guide will be your companion as you navigate this city of contrasts. Get ready to discover the hidden gem of Andhra Pradesh.
How to reach Kurnool
- By air: Kurnool Airport (KJB) serves the city with an integrated terminal. It is about 18 km from the city centre and is well connected to the rest of the town by various means of transport. The airport offers many services to help you have a convenient time at the airport. Book your flights to Kurnool now.
- By train: Kurnool Junction provides convenient connectivity to major Indian cities. Several trains have stoppages connecting Kurnool to Hyderabad, Indore, and Kanpur.
- By bus: Kurnool is well-connected to various cities and towns across India. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates regular buses, and private bus services also offer connections.
- Getting around/local transport in Kurnool: Kurnool has a well-established local transportation network with regular buses, autos, cycle rickshaws, and cab facilities. Car rentals are also available for convenient exploration of the city.
Places to visit
Belum Caves
The second-largest caves in India feature stalactite and stalagmite formations, unique passages, and a large chamber called "Meditation Hall”.
Exploration time: 2-3 hours
Konda Reddy Fort
Experience Time: 1-2 hours
Nallamala Hills
Exploration time: Variable depending on activities
Srisailam
Exploration time: 1-2 days
Nandyal
Exploration time: 2-3 hours
Yaganti Temple
Exploration time: 1-2 hoursView All 6 places
Places to eat
Exploring Kurnool isn't complete without savouring its unique and flavourful cuisine. Here's a glimpse into some popular restaurants known for their taste and hospitality:
Geetha Bhavan
This local favourite in Nandyal offers a delightful vegetarian experience. They are renowned for their breakfast options and South Indian staples.
Popular dishes: Idli, vada, dosa, pongal, and filter coffee.
Hyderabad Paradise
Craving Hyderabadi specialities? Hyderabad Paradise offers a taste of the Deccan, featuring flavourful biryanis and curries.
Popular dishes: Hyderabadi biryani, mirchi ka salan (tangy gravy), and kebabs.
Aahar Fine Dining
This well-regarded restaurant, it caters to vegetarians, and is known for focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative takes on classic South Indian dishes.
Popular dishes: Ulavacharu biryani (tangy jackfruit biryani) and paneer makhanwala (creamy cottage cheese curry).
Ajwa Restaurant
In Kurnool, Ajwa Restaurant is a culinary haven offering various Indian delicacies with delectable biryanis. With a focus on authentic flavours and impeccable hospitality, Ajwa is a go-to destination for food enthusiasts
Popular dishes: Special chicken biryani, paneer tikka, and tandoori gobi.
Lotus Restaurant
Lotus Restaurant is celebrated for its tantalising Indian cuisine. Each dish at Lotus is crafted with precision, care, and warm hospitality.
Popular dishes: Natu kodi roast, apollo fish, and tangdi kebab.
Golden Cafe & Restaurant
Golden Cafe & Restaurant is a beloved dining spot known for its diverse menu and inviting ambience. Whether craving hearty comfort food or indulgent desserts, Golden Cafe offers something for every palate.
Popular dishes: Veg gravy, paneer butter masala, and jeera rice.
Things To Do
Kurnool, nestled amidst the scenic Nallamala Hills in Andhra Pradesh, offers a captivating blend of historical sites, architectural wonders, and natural beauty. Here's a glimpse into what awaits you:
Historical sites
Cave exploration
Temple visits
Cultural tour
Shopping trips
Local cuisine
Nature and wildlife
Best time to visit
October to March offers comfortable temperatures perfect for sightseeing.
Most commonly spoken languages
Telugu is the primary language spoken in Kurnool. English and Hindi are also understood in some areas.
Shopping
While Kurnool offers modern shopping options, the authentic charm lies in its vibrant bazaars and bustling streets.
- Siva Nagar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Siva Nagar, a bustling market catering to various needs. Browse through a variety of fabrics like Uppada silks, known for their intricate gold and silver zari work. Also, discover a wide range of shops selling handcrafted leather footwear that are known for its quality and comfort.
- Handloom Bazaar: Dedicated to the art of traditional weaving, the Handloom Bazaar is a haven for textile enthusiasts. In addition to the exquisite Uppada sarees, a perfect souvenir or a statement piece for your wardrobe, feel the soft and breathable comfort of khadi fabrics, an eco-friendly choice for various kurtas, shirts, and dresses.
- Old Town (Chowrasta): Step back in time as you explore the historic area of Old Town (Chowrasta). Unearth hidden gems at antique shops selling vintage cameras, old gramophones, and brassware, each piece whispering stories of Kurnool's past. Explore a vibrant spice market, where you can find a variety of spices, herbs, and medicinal ingredients used in traditional Ayurvedic practices.
- Nandikonda Road: Head to Nandikonda Road, renowned for its brassware and metalware shops. Discover a treasure trove of handcrafted idols of deities or pieces depicting everyday objects like bowls and vases. Find various shops specialising in bridal sarees and lehengas adorned with intricate embroidery and dazzling embellishments, sherwanis for grooms, and elaborate jewellery.
- Nandyal Cotton Market: For the ultimate textile experience, venture out to Nandyal Cotton Market. This is a must-visit for textile lovers as it is famous for its exquisite Nandyal cotton sarees, known for their intricate weaving patterns and lightweight feel. The market offers a unique opportunity to buy textiles at wholesale prices.
Festivals
Here are some of the festivals celebrated in Kurnool:
Sri Chakrayapeta Temple Brahmotsavam
Sri Chakrayapeta Temple Brahmotsavam is a grand festival celebrated in Kurnool with great enthusiasm and devotion. The festival, held annually at the Sri Chakrayapeta Temple, attracts devotees from far and wide. It spans several days and features elaborate processions of the temple deity, accompanied by music, dance, and rituals. The atmosphere during Brahmotsavam is filled with spiritual energy and celebration.
Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti, or Uttarayan, is a famous harvest festival celebrated in Kurnool and across India. People celebrate by flying kites, exchanging sweets, and participating in cultural activities. Traditional dishes like Pongal and sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery are prepared and shared with friends and family.
Sri Sankara Jayanti
Sri Sankara Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya, the renowned philosopher and theologian. The festival is observed with reverence in Kurnool, with devotees paying homage to Adi Shankaracharya through prayers, bhajans, and discourses on his teachings. Special ceremonies are held at temples and ashrams dedicated to Adi Shankaracharya, promoting his philosophy of Advaita Vedanta.
Ram Navami
Ram Navami is observed in Kurnool with deep devotion, marking the birth of Lord Rama. Temples are illuminated and decorated with vibrant flowers as devotees congregate to chant prayers and hymns praising Lord Rama. Processions featuring idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman are taken out, depicting scenes from the epic Ramayana.
Vinayaka Chavithi
Vinayaka Chavithi, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is celebrated with enthusiasm in Kurnool as the birthday of Lord Ganesha. Colourful decorations embellish homes and streets, while clay idols of Lord Ganesha are placed in pandals and households. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and participate in cultural programmes during the festival.
Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr, also known as Ramzan Eid, is celebrated in Kurnool with joy and festivity. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month. On this day, devotees gather for prayers at mosques, followed by feasts with family and friends.
More reasons to visit
Kurnool provides a distinctive and memorable experience for travellers looking to venture off the typical tourist path. Here are a few more reasons to visit this beautiful city:
- Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary: This 6,000-acre sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It is home to endangered species like the Great Indian Bustard. The sanctuary's diverse landscape of grasslands and scrub forests offers a unique habitat for various wildlife.
- Oravakallu Rock Garden: Oravakallu Rock Garden is a unique tourist destination known for its stunning rock formations and serene surroundings. The garden is set amidst millions of-year-old natural rock formations and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the garden's pathways, admire the intricate rock carvings, and enjoy the peaceful ambience. The garden also has a lake where visitors can relax and enjoy the area's natural beauty.
- Culinary delights: Kurnool offers a unique culinary experience, blending Andhra spices with regional flavours. Indulge in the fiery taste of Andhra Gongura (hibiscus leaves) chutney, savour the melt-in-your-mouth Kurnool Pulao (a rice dish), or try the local favourite - Khaman (a steamed lentil cake). Don't miss the chance to relish the city's famous sweets like Kaju Barfi, a rich and delicious cashew fudge.
