Nandyal is one of the most-visited towns in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. One of the reasons for this place becoming very popular among tourists is that it is believed to be one of the abodes of Lord Shiva, making it a famous Hindu pilgrimage hot spot that offers natural views to visitors. Whether planning a solo trip, a family vacation, or a honeymoon trip, Nandyal can be an ideal choice. Are you wondering what this place is famous for, how to visit there, when is the right time to see it, and some interesting tourist places in Nandyal? This blog will shed light on everything you need to know about this tourist place to plan a great trip to Andhra Pradesh.
About Nandyal
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Nandyal is a famous town amidst Nallamala Hills and the Kundu River, making it the perfect blend of natural beauty and religious importance. Among the devotees of Lord Shiva, Nandyal holds significant importance as this is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in South India since the days of the Vijayanagar Kingdom.
Thousands of people visit this place yearly due to its religious significance. But that’s not the only reason people come here. It is also a prevalent choice for people looking for trekking opportunities. Thus, it is the best place for people of all age groups.
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Tourist Places To Explore Near Nandyal
Here is a list of the top most famous tourist places you can explore while staying at Nandyal:
1. Mahanandi Temple
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One of the region’s most famous religious tourist attractions is Mahanandi Temple, which dates back to the 7th century A.D. This is also one of the oldest temples in India. Located at a distance of 14 Km from Nandyal, this temple is a scenic spot to the east of the Nallamalas hill range. From an aerial view, it looks like nature comes to its best at this place. This temple has many remarkable things, including the crystal clear water that flows throughout the year from perennial springs. Every year, from February to March, the Mahanandiswara festival is celebrated here, attracting tourists and pilgrims from all over the country, particularly South Indians who visit this place to experience the magnificent celebration.
Location- FJCF+25C Big, Nandi Park, Mahanandi, Andhra Pradesh 518502
Timings: 5 am to 8 pm
2. Ahobilam
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Another famous tourist attraction near Nandyal is Ahobhilam, also known as Ahobalam and Nava Narasimha Kshetra. Located at a distance of 40 km amidst Nallamall Hills in the Kurnool district, Ahobilam is not just an important pilgrimage site of South India but also an adventure trekking site. Many people visit here to enjoy trekking to the nine Narasimha temples in the surrounding hills’ thick forests. According to mythology, this temple is where Lord Narasimha blessed Prahlada and killed Hiranyakashipu. So, when you want to see mythology coming to life, it is the place to be.
Location: Allagadda mandal of Nandyal district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
Timings: 6 am to 10 pm
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3. Belum Caves
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Nandyal is famous for being a pilgrimage and a very well-known choice for people looking to uncover the pages of history. This is because of the presence of Belum Caves, which are one-of-a-kind archaeological and geological attractions worldwide. Belum Caves are located in the Kurnool district, a mere 30 km from Nandyal. Talking about the speciality of these caves, they’re 3.5 km long and are the second longest cave in India after Krem Um Lawan cave in Meghalaya. These caves also have well-like cavities; the central one is the main entrance to the caves. Additionally, there are some spacious chambers, syphons, freshwater galleries and long passages.
4. Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary
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Are you an adventure lover who wants to explore wild animals in their natural habitat? If so, then Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary can be a very good choice for you to enjoy your time travelling to Nandyal. They are located at a distance of around 30 km from Nandyal, this Wildlife Sanctuary. This place is home to a sizeable faunal population. Some of the wild animals available in the region include wild dogs, bonnet monkeys, jungle cats, hyenas, tigers, and panthers. At this wildlife sanctuary, one can explore the animals in their natural home without boundaries. It also has an abundance of flora and fauna, and the picturesque sanctuary has a great tale to tell. Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across 1194 km sq and is covered by mixed deciduous forests.
Location: 1/1, Opposite Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Kolimigundla, Andhra Pradesh 518123
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
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5. Oravakallu Rock Garden
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Another famous tourist attraction near Nandyal is Oravakallu Rock Garden, which is just 50 km from Nandyal. This place is renowned for its natural rock formations around a long, winding water body. It is safe to call it a small or miniature Grand Canyon, where the rocks are naturally made using quartz and silica. This park was developed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). The best part about this park is that it has to offer untouched natural beauty. Since it will be a whole-day activity, you can enjoy delicious food at restaurants near this rock garden. One can also plan a picnic with family and cook food at this fantastic place.
Location: M5V2+5V3, NH40, Orvakal, Andhra Pradesh 518010
Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
How to Reach Nandyal?
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Nandyal is a well-connected town via rail, road and air transport. Here are some of the best ways one can easily reach here:
By Rail – This town is well connected to the other parts of the country via rail transport as Indian Railways connects it to the rest of the country. Nandyal junction is a famous train station with direct rail connectivity to important cities throughout the country, including Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata.
By Road—This place is also well connected by road transport. APSRTC (Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) provides bus services to connect it to important cities within and outside Andhra Pradesh. There is a bus service to Nandyal from Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
By Air—The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. Once at the airport, one can take a private taxi or public transport to Nandyal.
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With pleasant weather conditions, various tourist attractions, and many comfortable accommodation options, Nandyal is the perfect choice for people planning the best trip to Andhra Pradesh. If you’re also planning a vacation, make sure to visit these tourist attractions in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Nandyal
Are there some good temples near Nandyal?
Yes, this place is very famous among national and international tourists as there are many pilgrimage sites available such as Srisailam, Mahanandi, Ahobilam, Yaganti, Sri Chowdeshwari Devi Temple: Saraswati Devi Temple, Sangameswaram Temple, Sri Lakshmi Maddileti Narasimha Swamy Temple, etc.
What is Nandyal famous for?
Nandyal is primarily famous for being a pilgrimage. The place gets its name from the word “Nandi Alayam”. This is evident because this place is approximately the centre point of nine Nandi temples.
Is Nandyal a good place for tourists?
For years, Nandyal has been famous among tourists. Following this, the local authorities are trying to make tourism a safe experience in this region. To increase tourism, many hotels and restaurants are constructed to offer tourists a comfortable and luxurious experience during their trip.
Can I reach Nandyal by flight?
The nearest airport here is Cuddapah (CDP) Airport, which is located 111.6 km away. Apart from this, Nandyal is also well connected to Hyderabad (HYD), which is located at 196 km distance.
Is it safe to travel to Nandyal with my family?
Yes, Nandyal is a very safe tourist destination with many families travelling to this place to visit the pilgrim sites like temples. So, one can plan a family vacation to Nandyal and enjoy a comfortable and safe travelling experience without any hassle.
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