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Often renowned for its enriching history, Anantapur is a popular city in Andhra Pradesh that stands as a great getaway spot for history enthusiasts. From temples to forts, there are several places to visit in Anantapur offering a variety of unique options that depict the rise and fall of empires over the decades. Be it exploring the renowned Ahobilam temple or immersing in history at Gooty Fort, there are a lot of unique experiences waiting for you. As you whip up the details of your next vacation to Andhra Pradesh, including Anantapur in your itinerary further enriches your travel experience.
10 Places To Visit In Anantapur
Despite being quite underappreciated, these places to visit in Anantapur offer a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Andhra Pradesh.
1. Thimmamma Marrimanu
Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
To kick off the list, you have to visit Thimmamma Marrimanu, which is this colossal marvel of nature. It is the world’s largest banyan tree, as recorded under the Guinness Book of World Records. The tree covers an area of 19,107 sq.m and beyond being a natural wonder, it has a lot of religious and spiritual significance too. Several religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism consider this tree sacred. Legends suggest that the banyan tree’s origin is associated with Thimmamma, a local lady who performed Sati. The banyan tree is believed to have originated from one of the wooden branches used in the pyre.
Location: Gootibylu, Thimma Marrimanu, Andhra Pradesh 515521
Timings: 12 AM – 04:30 AM and 06 AM – 12 AM
2. Penukonda Fort
Photo: Maxmad007 / Wikimedia Commons
Located roughly 79 km from the main city of Anantapur, Penukonda Fort is one of the top tourist attractions in Anantapur. Following the fall of Hampi, Penukonda was the second capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. Historical inscriptions depict that the fort was a gift from King Bukka-I to his son Virupanna, which would later be used as a defence mechanism for the Vijayanagar Empire. The fort is built on a steep hill and offers panoramic views of the town underneath. There are natural fortifications around, offering security and protection. The inside of the fort features a blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture with domed halls.
Location: Andhra Pradesh 515110
Timings: 09 AM – 05 PM
3. Puttaparthi
Photo: Thewhiteboard / Wikimedia Commons
Puttaparthi, a small town in Anantapur, is globally renowned as the birthplace of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The main attraction of this small town is the Prasanthi Nilayam Ashram, which is a spiritual centre that attracts tourists from across the country and the world. With the vast complex of the ashram, the main attraction happens to be the Sai Kulwant Hall, which hosts regular discourses and bhajans. The majority of the tourists visit this town to unwind, relax and even indulge in spiritual growth.
Location: 79.2 km from Anantapur
Timings: 24 hours
4. ISKCON Anantapur Temple
Photo: Dr Murali Mohan Gurram / Wikimedia Commons
ISKCON temples offer recluse and respite from the daily hustle and bustle of life, enabling you to unwind and truly connect with Lord Krishna through the aartis. If you are in Anantapur, you can’t miss out on exploring the ISKCON temple there. Its beautiful architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and regular devotional programs create a spiritually uplifting experience. Also, the temple’s dedication to the teachings of Lord Krishna is evident in every corner, making it a popular pilgrimage site for devotees from far and wide. You can even indulge in a free lunch service at the temple and shop from the gift shops around.
Location: Hare Krishna Land, National Highway No.7, Somaladoddi, Andhra Pradesh 515001
Timings: 04 AM – 12 PM and 04:30 PM – 08:30 PM
5. Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Among the Anantapur tourist places, ensure that you add Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple to the list. This unique temple is famous for its water-filled lingam. It is located on the banks of the Penna River, adding to the peace and the picturesque views that exist around it. The natural underground spring is from where the water creeps into the inner temple complex where the deity resides. There are several legends and folklore associated with the temple. One of the most common beliefs is that Sage Parasurama lived in this temple and indulged in deep meditation.
Location: పెన్నానది ఒడ్డున, Sunkulammapalem, Tadipatri, Andhra Pradesh 515411
Timings: 06 AM – 11:30 AM and 05 PM – 07:30 PM
6. Ahobilam Temple
Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons
While discussing temples, Ahobilam Temple is another one of the places to visit in Anantapur. It is located in the Nallamala Hills and Ahobilam is a cluster of nine Narasimha temples, each with its distinct charm. The primary highlight of this spot is the serene surroundings and the divine aura of the temples. If you are looking to indulge in a spiritual retreat, this is undoubtedly the best spot for it. One of the most rewarding experiences is trekking through the hills to reach these temples.
Location: Allagadda Mandal, Ahobilam, Andhra Pradesh 518543
Timings: 06:30 AM – 07:30 PM
7. Gooty Fort
Photo: Imrx100 / Wikimedia Commons
Next on the list of places to visit in Anantapur Andhra Pradesh is Gooty Fort, which is located around 300 metres above sea level. It is one of the oldest forts in Andhra and has centuries worth of history behind it. Since the town was initially named Gowthampuri, that’s where the name of Gooty Fort comes from. The majority of the fort now remains in ruins but it is still a popular tourist attraction that has been utilised by the rulers of the Chalukyas, Mughals, Marathas, East India Company and also the Vijayanagara Empire.
Location: Gooty, Andhra Pradesh 515401
Timings: 09 AM – 06 PM
8. Rayadurg
Photo: rajaraman sundaram / Wikimedia Commons
While places like Gooty Fort are often hyped and frequented by tourists, Rayadurg Fort often sits in the back of the line, less explored. The fort stands at an elevation of 2727 feet and has a variety of monuments constructed inside. If you are a fan of Tenali Raman folklore, chances are that you have witnessed this fort being mentioned on multiple occasions. The fort’s existence is associated deeply with the rise and fall of the Vijayanagar Empire, so you will witness the influence of that in the architecture inside. There are several temples inside the fort.
Location: Rayadurgam, Andhra Pradesh 515865
Timings: 24 hours
9. Veera Bhadra Temple
Photo: Bikashrd / Wikimedia Commons
More commonly known as the Lepakshi temple, the Veera Bhadra Temple is one of the most popular tourist places in Anantapur that you must add to your itinerary. Located about 120 kilometres from Anantapur, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its hanging pillar, which defies conventional architectural norms. Beyond that, several frescoes adorn the walls of the temple, which you must witness from up close. There are popular idols and sculptures like the famous Veerabhadra and Nandi sculptures. Also, the serene atmosphere of the temple makes it worth visiting.
Location: Main road, Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh 515331
Timings: 06 AM – 06 PM
10. Anantapur Clock Tower
Photo: Guptaele / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The last but not the least is the Anantapur Clock Tower. It is one of the leading landmarks, located in the middle of the city surrounded by the bustling market. According to historical evidence, the clock tower was built in the middle of the city right after Indian independence. Since then, the local government has focused on its maintenance. The tower itself is 71 meters tall and was inaugurated in 1947. Many individuals visit the clock tower to not only take pictures but also to admire the beauty of the tower in passing.
Location: Main City Centre of Anantapur.
Timings: 24 hours
With so many different places to visit in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, ensure that you add it to your itinerary the next time you are exploring this South Indian State. Be it to feed your religious soul or the history nerd in you, Anantapur has something to cater to the interests of every traveller. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the magic of Anantapur after booking your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Rajaraman Sundaram / Wikimedia Commons
