Kurnool a city headquarters of Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh. Once it also serves as a capital to the state. The name Kurnool is said to be derived from “Kandanavolu” which means ancient inscriptions. It also referred as “The gateway of Rayalaseema”.  The Tungabhadra (and its tributary is Hundri) the Krishna and the Kunderu flow across Kurnool district and city. Kurnool is famous for its ancient caves and historic inhibition. It works as a magnetic hub for history driven people. The most popular attraction of this place is the giant caves that have stood here for over a million years. City also a rich habitant for flora and fauna species. It is one of the ASI cities of nation. If you want to boost you history knowledge and imbibe few new details then visit Kurnool. Kurnool is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination. Let’s explore caves and archaeology of the cave city. 

BACKGROUND

Situated on Tungabhadra river this city was first mentioned in 11th century during Vijayanagara Empire. Until 16th century it was ruled by several kings. It was in 17th century it was ruled by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. After his reign it was amicably transferred to Nawabs who ruled untile Britishers invaded India. Post independence it was declared as capital of Andhra Pradesh until

LIP SMACKING FOOD

• UGGANI BAJJI: Uggani bajji is a very popular and famous Kurnool district dish. It is made with puffed rice and served with pakoda as siding. 
•  POT BIRYANI: Pot biryani is almost available at every restaurant and hotel with a wide range of variety. If your relish biryani then do try some spices flavor’s in biryani. 
•  FULL MEALS: You may also find a full meal kind of thali in several menus. It is a platter served on Banana leaf with endless dishes. 
•  PULIHORA: It is a famous Andhra Pradesh dish popular in country. It’s available at almost every nuke and corner of city. 

PLACES TO VISIT

• YAGANTI: Yaganti, dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is located in Kurnool district. Sri Yagantiswamy temple also known as the Uma Maheshwara Templewas built by Vijayanagara Sangama King Harihara Bukka Rayalu in the 15th century. Archeological exquisite site here Lord Shiva doesn’t have a shivaling instead is worshipped in a form or idol. Lord Shiva and Parvati are carved out of the same stone denoting Ardhanareeswara.
• BELUM CAVES: A prime tourist attraction for Kurnool city, Belum caves are Largest and longest cave system in India. Several monks have visited and meditated in second largest operating caves of India. It is the only cave tk have stalagmite and stalactite formation. A forty feet long budhha statue was installed outside cave. It is a study point for several geologists in nation. 
• KONDA REDDY: Kurnool fort or Konda Reddy fort was built by Vijayanagara Empire king. It has now been left with bit of ruins. Located inside City it is the watch tower from top you can glance over entire city. It is one of the major landmark and attraction of Kurnool. 
• ROLLAPADU WILDLIFE SANCTUARY: Established in 1988, house to endangered species The Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican. Rollapadu wildlife sanctuary is spread across 615 sq km, inhabiting abundant flora and fauna. It is delight to tourist who wants to enjoy nature and wildlife reserve. It is a worth it place to imbibe about biodiversity on different species. 
• VENUGOPLASWAMY TEMPLE: A famous and popular temple with revered faith it is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It has immense faith and popularity among locals. 
• NAGARESWARASAWAMI: One of the prime hindu revered shrines of Kurnool, Nagareswarasawami temple is dedicated to several Hindu deities. Worshipper throng across state to seek blessings from this temple in auspicious days. It is a classic representation of south Indian style temple architecture. 
• TOMB OF ABDUL WAHAB: A replica of Gol Gumbaz of Bijapur, this 17th century tomb of Abdul Wahab is a must visit place for architectural connoisseurs. The two dome exquisite craftsmanship of Mughal’s is a tomb for Abdul Wahab who conquered this region from Vijayanagara Empire. It is the fine architectural blend of Mughal and South Indian culture. 
• BUDDHA STATUE: A white gigantic Budha sitting on a lotus in a mesmerizing landscape, this place is renowned for taking images. Nestled in front of a hillock, Budha sitting and blessing with his hand. Constructed by the tourism board of the state, it is 40 feet (12 metres) tall and sees many visitors each year.  
• SAI BABA TEMPLE: A temple dedicated to Sai Baba, this temple witness several devotees flocking for a visit. A white crystal marble Sai Baba statue is worshipped by many devotees. Visit this temple if you are a believer of Baba. 
• AHOBILAM TEMPLE: Dedicated to Lord Narsimha, Ahobilam is temple where all nine forms of lord are worshipped. The temple was built according to the Vijayanagara style of architecture and houses idols of all the nine forms of Lord Narasimha Swami. It is perched on Nalmalla Hills. 
• ORAVAKALLU ROCK GARDEN: Oravakallu is a magmatic rock garden which is a fascinating landscape. A picnic spot with a small restaurant, boating and a cave museum it is a complete one stop solution of entertainment and day at leisure.

 
HOW TO REACH 

• AIRPORT: Nearest airport to Kurnool is Hyderabad airport. It has several domestic flight operators which connects well with other cities. You can easily book a cab prior to your trip. 
• RAILWAY: Falling on Secunderabad-Bangalore railway track which connects it to almost every South Indian city. 
• ROAD: A good network of state and district buses serve Kurnool. You can travel by local buses or private bus operators. It can also be reached by self mode of transport. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT

October to March is the best time to visit Kurnool. 
• SUMMER: Temperature hovers from 32°c minimum to 42°c maximum. (Extremely hot and Humid) 
• RAIN: Temperature hovers from 23°c minimum to 30°c maximum.( Heavy showers) 
• WINTERS: Temperature hovers from 20°c minimum to 28°c maximum. ( Pleasant weather)