Nallamala Hills: A Dense Forest of Andhra Pradesh

People from India is having special attraction for hill stations. Today we will discuss about the hill station known as the Nallamalas (also recognized as Nallamalla Range). Nalamala hills are basically in Kurnool region that spread to Mahabub Nagar, Prakasam, Guntur, Chittoor and Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh, India. 

This Indian tourist place is parallel to the coat Coromandel. Pennar and Krishna are two big rivers in this region and Nallamala hills are located between these two rivers. The two big peaks of this hill range are Bhairani at 1100 meters distance from the sea level and Gundla Brahmeswara at 1048 meters level. 

The interesting part of such hill area is there are some tribes living in the jungles of Nallamalla. In this region transportation is another big issue and you have to go by road if you want to reach this place. The famous Late Chief Minister Mr. YSR Reddy of Andhra Pradesh found dead in this forest after helicopter crash. The major part is forest department and government both did search for his dead body and it took more than 24 hours to find that. 

Weather:

Climate is almost hot of Nallamala and the average rainfall is 90 cm. Monsoon is better period to reach here as the temperature get quite manageable and greenery is spread everywhere. River Gundlakamma is the largest flowing river in such area. Winter is dry and average temperature recorded is 25 o Celsius.

Attraction in Nallamala hills:

It is a big jungle area, though the forest is spread in large amount so there is a risk of life if there is no proper plan. However, still there are countless locations where you can visit. 

Srisailam: The Initial place here is Srisailam that is a holy place, big power project area as well as dense forest area. Krishna River is the biggest source of electricity generator as the dam is constructed on this river at two different places. Sarisailm is one of them having large hydroelectric power station. Here the Lord Shiva temple is unique as well and devotees are reaching this place in large group. Few key attractions of this town are dam visit, swim in Krishna River, Shiva temple, jungle safari and local sightseeing. 

Mahanandi and Ahobilam Narsimha Temple: Another holy location in Nallamala ranges that is popular for descending stream from Gundla Brahmeswara peak. Both temples are ancient shrines and the local people is having huge values. A pool at this location is known as Nemaligundam (also referred as Peacock Pool).

River Krishna is listed as one of the big rivers of India and the high flow of water is amazing. You will find the countless small and big streams at different locations. A best than others waterfalls created by nature in this region is Mallela Theertham. 

Cumbum Lake: An oldest man-made lake of India nearly built in 15th century. The ruler of Gajapati Empire of Orissa ordered their architectures to create an artificial lake for harvesting water for 420 km 2 agricultural land of his limits. 

Few more impressive locations at this Indian tourist place are Mahanandi Temple built on foothills, Srisailam Gopuram, Dam view, Mallelatheertham Waterfalls, Upper Ahobilam temple and valleys. 

How to reach Nallamala Hills?

As the hills are spread in larger area so selecting best location then whole place is good option. Even the transportation is also limited and available for certain areas in this tourism place of India. Andhra Pradesh state is having transport for Srisailam and many other nearby towns and cities. 

By Road: If you are reaching in your own vehicle then get the highway of Vijayawada to Guntakal. A route is good, but covered with dense forest so be careful when you drive especially in night. Buses for Srisailam are available from almost every city of Andhra Pradesh. 

By Rail: Closest railway station for Nallamala hills are Hyderabad and Vijayawada.

Ananthapur: Historical City of Andhra Pradesh

India’s glorious city Ananthapur is prime target today. This tourism place of India is famous as holy region. However, the city is having different nearby best tourist attractions that mean if you reach the Ananthapur then you can enjoy many other tourism locations.

Ananthapur is also known as Anantpuram and Anantpur so don’t get confused if you get different spellings on the internet while searching for this destination. This city is the headquarters of Ananthapur region AP (Andhra Pradesh) state, India. The city played a vital role in 2nd World War for British East India Company.

Climate: 

The semi-arid climate with dry and hot conditions can disturb you, but the place is really impressive for voyagers. Summer is not a good season to visit as you will not be able to roam outside during the day time due to high temperature. Winter and the pre-monsoon rain that starts in March is a good time to reach the spot. The best period for Ananthapur is between Septembers to January. 

Talking about tourism spots in the city, there are limited locations to visit. However, the surrounding spots are amazing and must attain destinations. Once you reach the Ananthapur then you must go to the surrounding tourism places of the city. 

Attractions in/nearby Anantapuram:

Dharmavaram: The first place of the city is Dharmavaram that is located in a gap of 46 km from the central part of the city. Dharmavaram is 200 KM away from Bangalore. You will get the city transport from Anantpur to reach Dharmavarm. This initial place is having historical values like this place was ruled by King of Bijayanagar Vidya Empire around 500 years ago. Don’t forget to visit the Dharmavaram tank that is one of the largest tanks of the region. Dharmavaram town is famous for the shrine of Sri Lakshmi Chennakesava. Silk Saree of the town are famous and exported to abroad nations as well.  

Gooty: Next tourism spot of Ananthapur is Gooty that is just 52 km away from the town. You have to get the Kurnool to Bangalore highway for Gooty. Here you can visit the old fort of AP (Andhra Pradesh). You will get the local transport for Gooty from Anantpur. The fort constructed at this place is actually special because of hill area. You have to trek 300 meters height to reach the fort. Construction was done during the ruling period of Vijayanagara Kingdom. Structural design of Gooty fort is different than other monuments of India so we can say it is must visit place of Ananthapur.  

Hemavathi: Once you are in the town you can attain to Hemavathi that is another tourist spot of the area. Hemavathi is located at 37 km distance from Madakasiri, though Ananthapur is 148 km away from this place. Hindupur is the closest railway station to reach Hemavathi. In ancient period this town was the capital of the rulers of Pallavas Empire. Chola architectures were famous in that period and you will find several monuments in the town of Chola structural designs. It is historical destination and by visiting this spot you will learn a lot about the history of ancient Ananthapur. 

Penukonda: located at 50 km distance from Ananthapur on Bangalore highway. Local people recognize this spot as Ghangari. Here again you will get the amazingly constructed fort and the strategic view of the town. 

Lepakshi: one of the important tourist attractions of Anantapur region is Lepakshi. This town is well-known for historical view located at 110 km distance from Ananthapur. Hindupur is the closest another tourist attraction of this town.  

Tadipatri: As there are many places to visit in Ananthapur, Tadipatri is one of them located at 90 km distance from the destination. In Tadipatri you can visit Chintala Venkataramana shrine. Here you can enjoy the Pennar River flows from 1 km distance of the temple. 

Aluru Kona: A small town at 5 Km distance from Tadipatri is next place to visit. The ruler Bukkaraya constructed Ranganatha Swami temple in 1334 AD. Here a small waterfall is one more attraction for the voyagers. 

There are many more locations that are famous of Ananthapur such as Penna Ahobilam, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Thimmamma Marrimanu, Kadiri, Puttaparthi, Vemana Samadhi, GUGUDU and Yadiki Caves. Each spot is best and you should not miss them once you are in Ananthapuram region. 

How to reach Ananthapur?

By Air: Closest International airport is Bangalore, though Puttapurthi is having airport too. Domestic travelers can get the flights for Puttapurthi and abroad users can reach the spot through Bangalore. 

By Train: Railways are the best mode of transport in India. For tourism railway department is having special trains for passengers. However, Anantapur is the Indian tourist place that is linked to big cities of India like Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar, Vishakhapatnam and Pune. 

By Road: Get the public transport like state buses to reach Ananthapur easily. NH 7 pass from this city that link this place with many metropolis so that travelers can reach the destination easily.

Lambasingi: Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh

A hotspot of Andhra Pradesh that is becoming the first demand especially for hill station lovers. Our target of the day is Lambasingi that is also known as Kashmir of South India. A small town of AP with full greenery everywhere is definitely going to attract voyagers. Surrounding is covered with hills and dense forest so you are going to enjoy the nature as well as best hospitality of India at this special destination. This Indian tourist place is all time favorite spot for nature lovers.

Imagine you are at calm place and fog is spread in everywhere. You are not able to see anything nearby. 

What will be your reaction? 

Lambasingi is the kind of location that is having all such features. Lambasingi is also recognized as Lammasingi and Korra Bayalu. It is the small town of Chintaplli Mandal, Vishakapatnam region of AP. 

The most important part of this town is the temperature goes below 0 °C in winter. December and January are two most difficult months in this region due to chilled air flow. However, snow fall rarely occurs in this place, but the temperature is always low than 10 degree throughout the year. The town is having different climate than other cities of the state. Sun rises at regular time but the sunlight reach the town after 10 am every day except winter season. In winter the sun gets little bright after 12 noon. However, the light become shorter after 3 pm every day because the place get blank with thick fog after 3 pm.

The nearby forest hill station Chintapalli is one more tourist attraction. Tajangi valley is best attraction in Chintapalli. The major source of income of Lambasingi is coffee and pepper plantations. However, tourism is also increasing here so future is bright of this town. This Indian tourist place is popular for producing best coffee ever. The maximum production of coffee is exported to USA and UK nations. 

This place has coffee & pepper plantations. All these plantations are being cultivated since the British Regime in India. Coffee grown here is exported to the USA.

Talking about attraction in this place the greenery and valleys are important areas that you can cover. Some spots are famous for trekking and adventure events like camping. However, walking the area will give you more enjoyment as you will be able to watch the natural beauty closer. 

The tourist department of Andhra Pradesh is having travel packages for Lambasingi. You can contact the office through online for booking of your favorite accommodation in this town. APSRTC is providing service related to tourism in this area like you can enjoy the forest safari and can watch the real jungle closer than ever.  

How to reach Lambasingi?

By Road: Lambasingi is properly connected through road and direct buses for the town are available from Visakhapatnam, Narsipatnam, Chintapalle and some more cities. 

By Air: Vishakhapatnam is big international airport located at 101 km distance from Lambasingi. Flights for Vishakhapatnam are available from Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai and almost every big city of India. 

By Train: Chintapalle is closest railway station to reach Lambasingi. You just have to 19 km distance from Lambasingi.

Papikondalu - Holy Town of Andhra Pradesh

Indians are mythological, godly and have faith in God, and we always correlate the things as wish of God. Lord Rama, Goddess Sita is big proof of our devout values. Lord Rama spent his most valuable period of life because of exile given by his father. During their deport they visited countless places of India. If you go through history, you will find that Lord Rama started is journey from North, and he came to the last point of India in South as well. One of the places in Andhra Pradesh known as PapiKondalu is listed as hill range of Khammam region. This town is closer to Bhadrachalam that is popular spot as the sources say Goddess Sita was kidnapped by Ravan at Bhadrachalam town only.

In real Papikondalu is a mixture of two different names such as Papidi Kondalu that is a hill range of this area. The huge river Godavari gets split because of this hill. Today Papikondalu peaks are in demand for AP travelers. Lots of Tourism departments are having direct buses for Papikondalu hills. Once you reach here you can enjoy the dense forest, camps, and boating that will take you to the real temple of Bhadrachalam from Papikondalu.

Kollur village is available where you can do the night stay if you want to enjoy more to this place. The attraction part for this village it is covered by dense forest. That means once you are in the village you can enjoy the real jungle life of India. Forest department suggests not to go out in the night if you are not aware of Kollur village routes. However, the natural scenery of town and best waterfalls located at Munivaatam is enough to take your breath away. It is totally peaceful area having fresh air. The town is completely different than cities that are crowded and full of noise.

Few key attractions of Papikondalu are:

1. Shiva temple at Munivaatam.

2. Polavarm project.

3. Teak, Arjun and Rose Wood forest.

4. Natural vegetation farms

5. Real wildlife in dense forest.

6. Eastern Ghats and Godavari River.

7. Boating in Godavari River.

8. Bird Watching.

People visited this place are having different opinions. Some say the place is not attractive, though maximum people are agreed that it is the unique and adventure place where you are getting to watch the live wild animals like cheetah, tiger, bore, snakes and many more. This is the reason why forest department warns the visitors to be attentive all time. I personally believe Papikondalu is the place where a strong hearted person should only visit. Of course, it is natural beauty spot the danger is always there of your life. It could be your memorable moment or the most horrifying time in your life. Online ticket booking is available for accommodation, boating and some more services. You need to prepare mentally and physically to enjoy this wonder place.

Rajahmundry is another big tourist attraction closer to Papikondalu. The city is having countless scenic spots.

When we talk about the Papi Hills, you can have to get the boat from Rajahmundry. It is approximately eight-hour distance and steamers; speed boats and big yachts are available for Papikondalu. A single steamer can carry around 50 to 60 people at the time. The finest feature of such a journey is it is full of adventure like you can enjoy the cool water, tilting boat, wild animals moving of the jungle, etc.

Papikondalu is having tribal communities as well though they are on hills. These communities are Pattiseema and Perantalapalli. The major source of living of these tribal coms is fishing and farming. You will be surprised if you visit the handicraft pieces of these communities. Few more interesting things that people love are riverside camping, trekking and jungle breakfast.

Papikondalu is having religious values of India, though few of the spots are best among all. Go through mentioned details to learn about the most demanding places of Papikondalu:

Bhadrachalam Temple: This temple is related to Indian myth because sources say Ravana kidnaped Sita Mata from Bhadrachalam. You will find several signs and indications of her to kidnap at this temple. River Godavari is always flowing with high pressure. On every Ram Navami, the water level of river Godavari gets increase and tries to enter the temple to touch the feet of Lord Rama Idol. There is one more temple in Bhadrachalam that is also of Lord Rama. It is built on peak of Bhadragiri.

Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuary: A jungle safari spread in 591 square km is the next place to visit in Papikondalu. The sanctuary starts from East Godavari area and ends to Khammam regions. This park is the home of several dangerous animals such as tiger, leopard, hyena, snake and many more.

Perantala Palli: A village with limited land area is home of fishermen and ancient Lord Shiva temple. You can touch this town if you follow the route between Rajahmundry to Kunavaram. 

Pattisam: A pilgrimage place near river Godavari is next spot to visit. This shrine is dedicated to God Veerabhadra.

Kinnerasni Wildlife Sanctuary: One more important spot located at 12 km distance from Paloncha. It is the bio preserve park also a part of Dandakaranya forest.

How to reach Papikondalu?

Rajahmundry is the closest city connected to various parts throughout the country.

By Air: Domestic airport of Rajahmundry is allowing visitors to reach the city by air. Direct flights for Rajahmundry are available from Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore and many other cities.

By Bus: AP tourism is having buses for Papikondalu from Hyderabad, Rajahmundry and other cities. However, services for Rajahmundry are in high level so reaching this town is better option. Hyderabad town is located at distance of 300 km from Papikondalu.

By Train: Rajahmundry is the big station connected to different parts throughout the country.

Nellore - A District of AP with full of Tourist Spots

Nellore is the district as well as important city of AP (Andhra Pradesh) State, India. The Nellore region is having countless tourist places which mean if you plan the vacations in Nellore you should plan long holidays. This Indian tourist place is getting popularity in European visitors. People from different nations are arriving Nellore at diverse periods.

Nellore is 6^thhigh populated city of Andhra Pradesh and serving the state as administrative headquarters of Potti Sri Ramulu region. Earlier the city was known as Vikrama Simhapuri. It’s only 168 Kms away from Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu.  However, Hyderabad city is 453 Kms far from Nellore. Penner River is one of the popular rivers of south India. Agricultural produce is the finest part of Nellore.

Past of the City:

The city was existed during the ruling period of Maurya Empire. Ashoka was the successful ruler of Maurya dynasty and Nellore was under his empire. He came to city in 3^rdera B.C but was captured by Pallava’s rulers among 4^th to 6^thcentury A.D. By the end of 13^th century the city was formed a part of Cholas Empire. Lastly city was ruled by British East India Company in 18^thcentury.

Attraction in Nellore district:

Talpagiri Ranganathaswamy Temple: A shrine famous as Talpagiri Ranganatha is first place to visit. Temple is located at 5 kms gap from city Bus stand. This temple is 600+ years old placed closer to river Pennar. Attain Nellore at the time of annual Rath Yatra as the period is best for voyagers to learn more about the cities ritual things.

Jonnawada: Another holy place to visit is Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakshi temple of Jonnawada located at 12 Kms distance from Nellore. Trains are available for Jonnawada from various parts of state.

Narasimha Konda:A temple of Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy is next spot for voyagers. Its 500+ years old shrine built by King Narasimha Varma of Pallava Empire. Vedic scripture of Brahma Purana is important attraction of the temple. You can also watch 7 tanks renovated with Mandapams.  Temple is 15 Km far from Nellore City center.

Penchalakona:Another oldest sacred center is Penchalakona where lord Narasimha established himself as huge rock. According to sources Lord Narasimha took bath in Penchalakona after killing the demon “Hiranya Kasipa”. Because of such reason the place is named as Somasila Narasimha Swamy temple.

Mannar Poluru: don’t miss to visit Alghu Malluru Swamy temple located at Mannar Poluru Village. You have to reach Sullurpet to attain the Mannar Polaru town that is only 103 Km away. This shrine was constructed in 17^th century by Yadama Nayudu. The legend of India is having details that Lord Krishna beaten Jambavantha in fight and lord Vishnu deflated the ego of Garut Mata at this place.

Chengalamma Temple: located at Sullurpet is next spot for voyagers. Nellore is famous Indian tourist place and Sullurpet is big destination in this region. Goddess Chengalamma Parameswari appeared in this village lies at 100 Km distance from Nellore. Kanlangi River is flowing from this area and foundation year is between 4^thto 5^th centuries.

Somasila Dam:A best location for travelers in Nellore is Somasila Dam. This is biggest Project of Nellore region. Dam is built over the river Pennar in Somasila town. Move towards east direction of Nellore to attain the spot. This place is full of natural beauty and the temple Someshwara Temple is special destination to visit in town.           

Kandaleru Dam: Another spot is available for you known as Kandaleru Dam located 60 kms far from Nellore. State Highway is directly connected to Kandaleru town from Nellore. Dam is constructed on River Kandaleru.

Udayagiri Fort: If you love to watch historical places then visit Udayagiri Fort in Nellore located at 100 kms distance only. Udayagiri itself is a tourist place and Fort is the major attraction of Udayagiri town. Altitude of fort is 3079 feet and surrounding area is full of natural beauty. Some stunning waterfalls are also able to make holidays memorable.

Pulicat Lake: A 2^nd highest lake of Andhra Pradesh is Pulicat spread in Tamil Nadu state as well. Average area for lake is 600 square km in AP covering 5 taluks of Sullurpet, Tada, Doravari satram Durgarajupatnam  and Chittamur of Nellore region.

Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary: Nature lovers can attain to NBS (Nelapattu bird sanctuary) which is the largest park in South-East Asia. Around 1500 birds and other species are visiting this park every year. Get NH (National Highway) 5 to reach the park. Its basically a big water tank with huge volume of Barringtonia Acutangula trees.

Mulasthan Eswara Swamy Temple: A 1400 years old temple is another attraction of region known Sri Mulasthaneswara Swamy temple. Get the route in west direction from Nellore to reach this spot.

Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple: A shrine in Mallam town is next place to visit. Also known as Malla village located closer to Naidupeta town. It is just 96 km far from Nellore city center constructed by rulers of Chola dynasty in 10^th to 11^th Centuries.

There are many more places like Masthan vali Dargah (located in Kasumuru village), A. S. Peta Dargah, Sri Venkaiah Swamy Mandir (located in Golagamudi town), Krishnapatnam, Prabhagiri Patnam, Sriharikota, Sri Talpagiri Ranganatha temple, Mulastaneswaraswamy shrine, Venugopala Swamy Temple, Erukalal Parameswari Temple, Sri Rajarajeswari Temple, Ayyappa swamy temple, Swarnali Tank, Children Park, Bharashid Dargah, Mallikarjuna Kamakshi tai temple (located in Jonnawada), Kodanda Ramaswamy temple, Vedagiri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Temple, Vijayeswari Matha Ashramam, Vengamamba Temple, Siddeshwara Swamy Temple, Somalingeswara Swamy Temple, Jain Temple and Siddalaiahkona. There are many more places which mean you enjoy your holidays properly.

Attaining to Nellore:

By Road: NH-5 is directly connected to Nellore from Chennai and Kolkata. APSRTC (Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) buses are available for Nellore from various parts of the state. TNSTC is also having buses for this famous town. If you are coming from Karnataka then get the KSRTC buses for Nellore. Buses from Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and various other cities are available in good quantity.

By Rail: Nellore is having own railway station having direct trains from Vijayawada, Chennai, Hyderabad and other big cities.

By Sea: Nellore is having another transport method. You can reach the town through Krishnapatnam Port formed by state government of AP. Ships from Visakhapatnam Port are available for Nellore.

By Air: The closest airport is Renigunta in Tirupati located at only gap of 130 km from Nellore. Flights for destination are available from Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Delhi and Mumbai. Big international airport closer to Nellore is Chennai so abroad visitors can also get the destination easily. 

Udayagiri: Amazing Destination of India

Udayagiri is our next Indian tourist place popular as Mandal of Nellore region, Andhra Pradesh born in 14th century. Earlier the city was capital of Langula Gajapati Kingdom from Orissa. However, Krishna Deva Raya the ruler of Vijayanagara captured the city under Andhra Pradesh in 1512. Udayagiri fort was constructed by Ruler Langula Gajapati. To reach fort people use to go through dense jungle track from eastern side of state. 

Famous Udayagiri Hills: major attraction parts of city are Hills mingled with historical background. Such hills are explained the Ramayana as well. It is the place where Lord Hanuman carried Sanjeevini mount to cure Lakshmana. At the time of returning from Lanka god Hanuman thrown the Snajeevini hill in this place. The crystal clear flowing water from hill states the importance of Udayagiri hills. Experts are still not able to find the source of water coming from the hills. Local people are using the water for drinking purpose. Some best spots to visit in Udayagiri are shrines of Udaya Lakshmidevi, Lakshmi Narasimha, Devastanam village Loddi, Tapka, Kona, Choti and Badi Masjid. 

It was really difficult to built roads, place electricity polls, etc. in this region. However, the AP government did hard work to constructed clean roads and light polls. Today Udayagiri is turned as best holiday spot of the State. 

Amazing spots of Udayagiri:

Gandipalem Dam: This popular spot is famous for storage of drinking water and cultivation for farmers. Name to this dam area is given after Langula Gajapati the ruler of Udayagiri. 

Ghatika Siddeswaram Shrine: A shrine dedicated to god Shiva is another amazing spot for voyagers. This stunning and picturesque location is famous for continuous water supply. The shrine constructed is added in list of oldest temples of India. 

Siddeswaram: A small but effective village is available for you as next tourist place. You can visit lord Shiva temple also known as Siddeswaradu, Kasi Nayana, Istakameswari devi Ayyappa, Agasthya Rishi Thapovan, Veera Bhoga Vasantaraya temples, 7 water sources, Sree Lalita Devi, Sree Guru Datta, Lord Shiva and Vinayaka shrines, etc. 

Forest products: Once you reach to Udayagiri you should search the local market and must get the pure honey and dried fruits such as Sara Pappu. The fresh and pure items from forest are not available everywhere. You can also get the red sandal and several other sandal trees in this region. 

Attaining to Udayagiri: 

By Road: If you have planned to visit the spot then closer station to reach Udayagiri is Nellore located at only gap of 96 kms. Road is the best mode to reach Udayagiri as the hills are quite dangerous to drive so you must be careful if going through own vehicle. State buses are running daily from various parts such as Kavali, Atmakur, Nellore and Ongole. 

By Rail: Closest railway station is Kavali located at only gap of 75 kms from Udayagiri. Hyderabad is next big closer city for Udayagiri placed at 410 km distance. Direct bus is available from Hyderabad for Udayagiri. Some other Telangana regions are also having buses for Udayagiri such as Nizamabad, Warangal and Karimnagar.

By Air: Chennai is most convenient city to reach Udayagiri through airplane. Chennai is only 280 km far from Udayagiri and local buses are available for the destination. Other big airports available for Udayagiri are Hyderabad and Bangalore (only 380 kms away).

Ongole - Beach Place of Andhra Pradesh

The world is full of exciting places and India is the one having maximum spots where travelers can reach. Almost each place of India is unique and having numerous qualities that is the reason voyagers from the world are attaining to India at regular intervals. Today we are going to discuss about the city known as Ongole. 

It is the biggest town of Prakasam region, Andhra Pradesh. If we go through the history of Ongole, the town is famous for cattle breeds. Rulers from Maurya’s and Satavahana’s controlled the town for a longer period. Kakatiya rulers also ruled Ongole and constructed some port towns in this Prakasam district. Overall the town is having historical and religious values of the Indian people. There are many ashrams and swami Sansthan in Ongole serving the nation with religious facts. 

Attraction of Ongole:

Tangutur: positioned at only gap of 18 kms from the central part of Ongole is the first place to visit. Tangutur is a valuable holy place also known as Tanguturu. Temple of Goddess Valluramma is located in this region and the distance between Tangutur city and temple is just 8 km. 

Chennakesava Swamy Shrine: The holy place of Lord Vishnu is next spot in Ongole. This shrine was built in 18th era, though voyagers must attain to the temple at the time of Vishnu Ashtami or a concert of Goddess Lakshmi. The architectural structure of the temple is amazing that has no comparison with other temples of India. 

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: a shrine of Sai Baba is another holy place in Ongole. Construction of the temple was done on 17th Aug, 1989 under the supervision of Sri Telledevulapalli Siddanthi. 

KVS (Kashi Visweswara Swamy) Temple: a place of pilgrimage known as KVS (Kashi Visweswara Swamy) is the next location in the list. Construction of the temple was done in 1945 dedicated to Addala Mandapam. 

Kothapatanam Beach: If you are a beach lover and want to enjoy the sunset, sunrise then reaches Kothapatanam. This beach is only 25 km away and located in BOB (Bay of Bengal). Don’t forget to reach the beach area on the Karthika Purnima Fest. People reach the spot on Karthika Purnima and take a holy dip in the sea. 

Voderevu Beach: another beach just 6 kms away from Chirala is destination for travelers. It is located under Prakasam region famous for picnic and weekend activities. 

Attaining to Ongole:

Chennai is 302 km away from Ongole, Hyderabad is 370 km, Bangalore is 503 km, Coimbatore is 718 km and Nagpur is 792 km far from Ongole. 

By Air: Closest airbase for Ongole is Hyderabad has international as well as a domestic airport. Flights to Hyderabad are available from various cities such as Chennai, New Delhi and Mumbai. 

By Rail: Ongole railway station is available with all modern amenities. Trains for Ongole are available from New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Tirupati, Kanyakumari, and many other parts. 

By Road: Andhra State Transport is having buses for Ongole from almost every part of the state. Hyderabad is having frequent bus service for Ongole so no worries for voyagers to reach Ongole city.

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam - A Dam Site of Andhra Pradesh

Krishna is the ever flowing river of India and dams constructed on this river are always full of water. Reaching places where the dam is constructed could be different experience for the visitors. Nagarjuna Sagar is the popular destination close to Hyderabad City, Andhra Pradesh. The reason behind construction of Nagarjuna Sagar Dam was storing water of Krishna River and controlling the high flow because earlier lots of villages got drown because of Krishna River. 

The area where dam is constructed is known as Nadikonda Village. The other name of such location is Hill Colony. Its listed as biggest man made reservoir of the world. An island known as Nagarjunakonda is best place in Nagarjuna dam area. Here you will find the Buddhist inscriptions, though you have to take the boat to reach such spot. Dangerous crocodile and wild animals are always there so you are going to have complete adventurous trip in Nagarjuna Sagar area.

Nandikonda village was submerged in the river at the time of dam construction. However, local people were shifted to hill colony as safety reasons. In ancient period the village was not into the water but after the dam construction it’s almost area is submerged. Some of the parts like Buddhist temple and some more areas of village are located on the hills so they are safe compared to other land areas of Nandikonda.

You will be surprised that Nagarjun Sagar Dam is covered with dense forests and countless wild animals are taking shelter in this area. The beautiful scenery and the best weather conditions allow you to enjoy the place properly. However, if you reach Nagarjuna Sagar place in rainy season you will be able to enjoy the heavy waterfall, higher flowing river, and the flow of water from the dam gates. The impressive places in surrounding gives you chance to make holidays memorable. Try to reach the spot in winter season and reach the Hill Colony in steam boat.

Languages spoken: If you are able to speak English, Hindi or Telugu language you can easily manage the things here.

Best Season to visit: reach Nagarjuna Sagar Dam between Octobers to March every year if you want to enjoy the place.

Attraction:

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam: A dam constructed on river Krishna is first thing to watch here. The altitude of the dam is 900 meters and there are 26 gates in the dam. It is constructed in Nandikonda village and reaching such spot.

Chennakesava Swamy Temple (Macherla): a temple located close to Chandra Vanka is next spot in Nagarjuna Sagar Area. This place comes in Guntur region and elevation is 136 meters. This temple was constructed during the ruling period of Haihaya Kings. This ancient shrine was made in 13^thAD.

NWS (Nagarjunasagar Wildlife Sanctuary): to reach NWS you have to attain to Srisailam another big tourism spot of Andhra Pradesh. NWS is also recognized as NSS (Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Sanctuary).

Nagarjunakonda Museum: if you want to learn about the past of Nagarjunakonda or the Nagarjuna Sagar dam then reach the Nagarjunakonda Museum located in the island. Basically this museum is famous for Buddhist collections.

Ethipothala Waterfall: the big waterfall known as Ethipothala is famous stream place of India available with average height of 21.3 meters.  Enjoy the three streams known as Tummala, Nakka and Chandravanka Vagu. Keep yourself secure from the attack of crocodile because Ethipothala waterfall is full of crocodiles.

Attaining to Nagarjuna Sagar Dam:

If you are reaching to Nagarjuna Sagar Dam from Bangalore then you have to cover the distance of 638 kms, though Pune is 704 km, and Mumbai is 876 km away.

By Train:  Nagarjuna Sagar itself is not having own railway station. This means you have to search for the nearby station for the destination. Closest big railway station for Nagarjuna sagar dam is Guntur connected with major cities of the nation. Train for Guntur is available from Delhi, Bangalore,  Chennai and many other cities. However, small station that is having good frequent road service for Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is Macherla.

By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International airport located in Hyderabad city is best way to reach Nagarjuna Sagar Dam through flight. Direct buses and private taxis are available for your destination; though the distance of airport and destination is only 150 km. Flight for Hyderabad is easily available from almost every city of India, though international flights are also reaching the city at regular interval.

By Bus: Andhra Pradesh state transport is having buses for Dam area from several parts of the state. Properly managed roads allow voyagers to enjoy the trip properly. Buses from Hyderabad are available in large quantity for Nagarjuna Sagar Dam.