Kadapa is one of those underrated cities in Andhra Pradesh that is steeped in history, religious significance and cultural heritage. The district stands out for being home to some of the most unique tourist attractions, especially natural wonders. Be it religious spots like Ameen Peer Dargah Shrine and Veerabhadra Swamy Temple or natural wonders like Gandikota Fort and Palkonda Waterfall, there are many places to visit near Kadapa, each catering to the diverse interests of the travellers. The next time you are planning a getaway around Andhra Pradesh, consider exploring the sites around Kadapa.
10 Places To Visit Near Kadapa
Kadapa itself is a city filled with a lot of attractions. Here is a list of places to visit near Kadapa.
1. Gandikota
Photo: Kartik Kumar S / Wikimedia Commons
One of the main attractions near Kadapa that you can’t miss out on is Gandikota. It is renowned as the “Grand Canyon of India,” due to the gorge that forms from the flowing Pennar River. The lush greenery, scenic views from the viewpoints and adventure activities like trekking around the dense forests make Gandikota a sight you have to explore. One of the main attractions in Gandikota is the ancient Gandikota Fort, which is home to several temples and a mosque. Some of the most popular temples around Gandikota include Madhavaraya Swamy Temple and Raghunatha Swamy Temple.
Distance From Kadapa: 91 km
Major Attractions: Gandikota Fort, Penna River Gorge, Ranganatha Swamy Temple, and Jamia Masjid
2. Belum Caves
Photo: Hkotra / Wikimedia Commons
Although a little far out from Kadapa city, Belum Caves is one of the best places to see near Kadapa. Measuring 3229 metres in length, the caves are the second largest ones in India. You do have to be mindful of when you visit these caves since they remain covered in water and mud for almost 6 months in a year, especially during the monsoons. It is believed that the caves are millions of years old, formed from the limestone deposits from the Chitravati River. Many people enter the cave from the Belum village.
Distance From Kadapa: 125 km
Major Attractions: Stalactite and stalagmite formations and Patalaganga
3. Ahobilam
Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons
Up next is Ahobilam, one of the popular tourist attractions near Kadapa. The main attraction in this town is the Divyadesam Yeguva Sri Ahobila Narasimha Swamy Temple, also known as the Ahobilam Temple. The town itself is located amid Nallamala Hills, which adds to the charm of the place. One of the unique elements of the Ahobilam Temple is that it is divided into two sections – Upper and Lower Part. You can also visit Mahanandi, which is a holy Shivaite pilgrimage in Ahobilam. Some of the other temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha include Bhargava Narasimha Temple and Yogananda Narasimha Temple.
Distance From Kadapa: 92 km
Major Attractions: Divyadesam Yeguva Sri Ahobila Narasimha Swamy Temple, Bhargava Narasimha Temple, Chathravata Narasimha Temple, and Yogananda Narasimha Temple
4. Vontimitta
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One of the nearest places to visit from Kadapa is Vontimitta. This quaint village in the Cuddapah district is home to the ancient Sri Kodandarama Temple, which was constructed by the rulers of the Chola dynasty. It was later improved by the Vijayanagara Empire. It is located right in the middle of Srisailam and Siddavatam, making it a religious and spiritually charged spot to visit. You must also visit Dandakaranya Kshetra, which is the place where Jambavantha reportedly set up his shrine. Inside, you will find idols of Lord Rama, Lord Lakshmana and Maa Sita.
Distance From Kadapa: 25.1 km
Major Attractions: Sri Kodandarama Temple and Dandakaranya Kshetra
5. Tallapaka
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Tallapaka is yet another one of the best places to go near Kadapa. It is located in the Annamayya district and is the birthplace of the 15th-century Telugu Saint Annamacharya, which contributes to the historical significance of the spot. According to historical reports, he is one of the oldest and earliest known musicians who wrote and composed “sankeertanas.” Once you step foot in Tallapaka, you will witness the influence of that quite heavily. During his lifetime, he reportedly created 32,000 sankeertanas on Lord Venkateswara. At present, around 13,000 of them are available and known to us.
Distance From Kadapa: 53 km
Major Attractions: Sri Chennakeshava Swamy Temple and Tallapaka village
6. Sidhout Fort
Photo: Rvithejaa Kumar Reddy C / Wikimedia Commons
Sidhout Fort or Siddavatam Fort is one of the most popular sightseeing spots around. The fort is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Dakshina Kasi,” and is built on the Penna River. The fort dates back to the Vijayanagara period, during which time it served as a military post. It was built in 1303 AD and is spread across an area of 30 acres. One of the most charming elements of this fort is the two grand entrances with intricate carvings on the pillars. The carvings of Gajalakshmi at the top of the fort are quite charming.
Distance From Kadapa: 24 km
Major Attractions: Sidhout Fort, bastions and intricate carvings
7. Yaganti
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Yaganti is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites that you can consider visiting from Kadapa. The main attraction in the town that draws in devotees from across the country is the Sri Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located amidst the rocky hills the surrounding greenery adds to the charm of the place. Inside the temple, there is a Pushkarini. What’s fascinating is that the water flows from the bottom of the hill to the mouth of the Nandi. Since the water is directly sourced from the hills, it is quite sweet and fresh to taste.
Distance From Kadapa: 141 km
Major Attractions: Sri Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple and Pushkarini
8. Horsley Hills
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If you are looking for a getaway to a nearby hill station, consider adding Horsley Hills to your itinerary. It is one of the best places to visit near Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, perfect for tourists who want some respite from the chaos of the city. There are several sightseeing spots including the Kalyani Tree, which is a massive eucalyptus tree. Beyond that, you can head to Horsley Hills Zoo to witness wildlife, birds and the local flora around. Some of the popular viewpoints include Gali Bandalu or the Wind Rocks. The charm of this hill station is truly mesmerising.
Distance From Kadapa: 130 km
Major Attractions: Horsley Hills Zoo, Gali Bandalu and Kalyani Tree
9. Tirupati
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Another pilgrimage site to visit from Kadapa is Tirupati. It is located on the border of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and is home to one of the biggest pilgrimage sites in India, Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, also known as the Tirupati Balaji Temple. Beyond the pilgrimage and religious significance, you can also visit nearby sightseeing spots like Sri Venkateswara National Park and Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple. Also, to immerse yourself in the history of the place, consider adding Chandragiri Fort to your itinerary as well.
Distance From Kadapa: 140 Km
Major Attractions: Tirupati Balaji Temple, Sri Venkateswara National Park and Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple
10. Mydukur
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Mydukur is another quaint village near Kadapa that you can consider adding to your itinerary. Despite being in an offbeat location, the place has a historical significance too. You can explore historical and ancient temples like Sri Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple, which you can visit. The peaceful ambience of the village is also a reason why it is one of the top places to travel near Kadapa, enabling you to unwind and relax. If you want an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is a pretty great spot to visit and explore.
Distance From Kadapa: 33 km
Major Attractions: Sri Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple and Mydukur village
There are many places to visit near Kadapa, each standing out with its distinct features and significance. The next time you are exploring the district and venturing out to explore the nearby spots, there are quite a few different options to choose from. What’s quintessential is to have a well-planned itinerary and the vacation booked with TripXL so you don’t miss out on any of these unique experiences.
Cover Photo: Ebenezer Paul / Unsplash