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Anantapur is a quaint city that is located in the southwestern part of Andhra Pradesh. It is home to a variety of temples, forts, and heritage sites, which contribute to the historical and cultural significance of the place. Having a solid travel itinerary with the things to do in Anantapur can be a game-changer for your trip, enabling you to make the most out of your travel experience the next time you are in Andhra Pradesh. From exploring spots like the revered Lepakshi temple complex or witnessing the birthplace of Sathya Sai Baba here is a well-curated list.
Top 11 Things To Do In Anantapur
From exploring its architectural marvels to learning about its vibrant history, there are countless things to do in Anantapur, offering a plethora of experiences for travellers.
1. Explore The Lepakshi Temple Complex
Photo: Bikashrd / Wikimedia Commons
The crown jewel of Anantapur is the Lepakshi Temple complex. It is located around 120 km from the main city of Anantapur, offering travellers a unique experience of witnessing the remarkable example of Vijayanagara architecture. The temple, dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, is famous for its stunning frescoes and intricately carved pillars. Inside the temple, you can find shrines dedicated to several deities including Shiva, Vishnu, Papanatheswara, Raghunatha, Rama, etc. One of the temple’s highlights is the “hanging pillar,” an architectural anomaly where one pillar appears to be floating without touching the ground.
Location: Lepakshi Road, Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Andhra Pradesh For Your Next Trip
2. Hike Up The Historic Gooty Fort
Photo: Vihang Ghalsasi / Shutterstock
Ravadurg or Gutti Kola also known as Gooty Fort is another popular and major attraction in Anantapur. It is a ruined fort, located atop a hill in the town of Gooty. Inside the fort, one of the main attractions is the Narasimha Temple, which features around eight visible inscriptions. While the exact dating of the temple’s origins hasn’t been confirmed, it is believed that it belongs to the era of the Western Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI. The fort is located at an elevation of around 680 metres above sea level and its entrance is termed as “Mar Gooty.”
Location: Gooty, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
3. Discover The Thimmamma Marrimanu
Photo: Aritro Mukherjee IN / Wikimedia Commons
If you are a nature enthusiast, visiting Thimmamma Marrimanu when you are in Anantapur is a must. This is believed to be the largest banyan tree in the world featuring a canopy that’s spread across 25,000 sq.m and has around 1200 prop roots. When you look at the tree from afar, it appears as a forest entity itself. However, the closer you get to the tree, the branches and surroundings become a lot more prominent. Legends depict that the banyan tree was planted by Thimmamma, a royal lady, back in the 16th century. Once you visit this site, the iconic Thimmamma Marrimanu photos will be a memory of a lifetime.
Location: Gootibylu, Thimma Marrimanu, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andhra Pradesh
4. Visit Sri Venkataramana Swamy Temple
Photo: Pranav Sujay / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the things to see in Anantapur is the Sri Chintala Venkataramana Swamy Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkataramana, a form of Vishnu. Located on the banks of the Penna River, the temple was constructed by Pemmasani Timmanayudu II of the Pemmasani Nayaks and features granite sculptures and buildings. One of the key attractions in the temple is the Garuda Mandapa, which mimics the one at Vittala Temple in Hampi. Legends suggest that the presiding deity, Lord Venkataramana was found inside a tamarind tree, which led to the name of Chintala Venkataramanam, thus, making it one of the major temples in Anantapur.
Location: Gandhi Katta, Tadipatri, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM and 5 PM – 8 PM
5. Experience Spiritual Bliss At Penna Ahobilam
Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For those seeking spiritual solace, Penna Ahobilam is a revered pilgrimage site located near Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh. It is known for the Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple and the Penna Ahobilam Balancing Reservoir. Dedicated to Lord Narasimha, this temple stands on the banks of the Penna River and is often considered a spiritual counterpart to the more famous Ahobilam in Nandyal. The temple’s origins are believed to date back several centuries, where local legends associate it with the fierce form of Lord Vishnu.
Location: Anantapur district
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Top Temples In Andhra Pradesh To Explore On A Vacation
6. Visit Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
This Shiva shrine dates back to 1490 and 1509 when it was built by Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayu I. Inside the temple lies the Shiva lingam in the Swayambhu form. Besides the main shrine, the temple has seven small independent pillars in the surroundings, which are dedicated to the formation of other shrines including Lord Vishnu. Architectural historian, James Anderson, defined the unfinished “gopurams” in this temple as archaeological marvels as well. Since the temple is located on a hilltop, you have to embark on a short trek to reach this religious site.
Location: On the bank of Peddanadi, Sunkulammapalem, Tadipatri, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 11:30 AM and 5 PM – 7:30 PM
7. Find Serenity At ISKCON Anantapur
Photo: Dr Murali Mohan Gurram / Wikimedia Commons
ISKCON Anantapur is located in the Somaladoddi village, which is on the outskirts of the city, away from the constant chaos and hustle. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and focuses on spreading the message of “Krishna Consciousness,” which depicts Lord Krishna as the supreme power. Beyond the temple complex, you can witness poojas and even be part of the evening aartis where chants are said by the pandits inside. Not just the inner complex, the exterior and the surrounding areas around the temple are also worth exploring.
Location: Hare Krishna Land, National Highway No.7, Somaladoddi, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 4 AM – 12 AM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Suggested Read: Ganesh Temples In Andhra Pradesh To Enhance Your Spiritual Journey
8. Immerse In History At Penukonda Fort
Photo: Maxmad007 / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the things to do in Anantapur Andhra Pradesh is visit the renowned Penukonda Fort, located 80 km from the main city. Previously, the fort served as the 2nd capital of the Vijayanagar Kingdom. The beauty of this medieval fort now remains in shambles but it is still a popular tourist attraction among history enthusiasts. In the basement of the fort lies a selection of walls, bastions and gateways made using stone, mortar and lime. One of the highlights of this fort is the massive entrance gate called Erramanchi Gate.
Location: Penukonda Fort, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
9. Explore The Ruins Of Hemavathi Fort
Photo: Prashant / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Once a flourishing capital of the Nolamba dynasty, Hemavathi Fort now stands in ruins, whispering stories of its glorious past. This fort complex features ancient temples, intricate carvings, and scattered relics from the 9th and 10th centuries. Though partially dilapidated, its historical charm remains intact, offering a quiet escape for those interested in archaeology and forgotten kingdoms. The adjacent Doddeswara Swamy temple, with its beautiful sculptures, adds a spiritual element to the visit.
Location: Hemavathi, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Top Forts In Andhra Pradesh
10. Discover History At Rayadurgam Fort
Photo: Tejj / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Rayadurgam Fort is an impressive yet lesser-known historical marvel. Perched on a rocky hill, the fort was built during the Vijayanagara Empire and offers stunning views of the surrounding plains. Inside, you’ll find several temples with fine carvings, old stone structures, and remnants of royal architecture. The fort is mostly in ruins, but it still draws visitors for its heritage value and scenic setting. It’s ideal for history buffs and those who enjoy offbeat exploration.
Location: Rayadurgam, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
11. Mounagiri Hanuman Temple
Photo: Mounagiriashram / Wikimedia Commons
Mounagiri Hanuman Temple is known for its towering 39-foot monolithic idol of Lord Hanuman. Set amidst rocky terrain, the temple complex is serene, clean, and ideal for quiet reflection. The spiritually charged atmosphere, combined with well-maintained paths and views of the hills, makes this a peaceful stop for devotees and travellers alike. Whether you’re religious or not, the location is one of the top places to visit in Anantapur, offering calm surroundings and a welcome break from city noise.
Location: Hampapuram, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Suggested Read: Jyotirlinga Temples In Andhra Pradesh
Top Things To Do Near Anantapur On A Day Out
Here are some of the best things to do near Anantapur for a memorable and enriching experience on your day trip.
1. Enjoy A Day Trip To Puttaparthi
Photo: Thewhiteboard / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the best things to do in Anantapur is planning a day trip to Puttaparthi, which is the birthplace of the renowned spiritual leader, Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The town is home to the Prasanthi Nilayam ashram, which attracts devotees and visitors from around the world. The ashram is the main attraction in this municipality where you get to immerse yourself in the peace and tranquillity of the place. Inside the ashram lies the Sai Kulwant Hall and the Meditation where devotees can relax and meditate to attain their inner peace.
Location: Sri Sathya Sai district, Andhra Pradesh; 80 km from Anantapur
Timings: 24*7
2. Explore The Wilderness Of Nallamala Forest
Photo: Dubbala Divya / Wikimedia Commons
For the travellers wondering what to do in Anantapur, a visit down to the Nallamala Forest should answer all your questions. It is believed to be the largest “undisturbed” forest in South India and the beauty of it explains why. The key attractions of this forest lie in its vast biodiversity. You can find a variety of wildlife there including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, and others. Even the surrounding hills are covered in lush greenery and thick woods, making them conducive for the survival of rare and endangered species.
Location: Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh; 167 km from Anantapur
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Andhra Pradesh
3. Discover the Mystic Belum Caves
Photo: Belum Caves / Wikimedia Commons
Belum Caves are India’s second-longest cave system open to the public. These naturally formed limestone caves feature long passages, spacious chambers, underground streams, and interesting rock formations. Highlights include the meditation chamber and natural air vents. Belum Caves are lit for easy navigation, making it suitable even for first-time explorers. The caves are a geological wonder and are one of the best places for those seeking a mix of adventure and natural beauty.
Location: Kolimigundla, Andhra Pradesh; 85 km from Anantapur
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
4. Marvel At The Gandikota Fort And Gorge
Photo: Karthik H S / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Grand Canyon of India,” Gandikota is a dramatic river gorge carved by the Pennar River beside a 13th-century fort. It’s a favourite weekend escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The Gandikota Fort itself features ancient temples, stone structures, and ramparts overlooking the canyon. The scenic cliffs, sunset views, and rustic landscape create a perfect backdrop for photography and camping. It’s one of the most breathtaking spots near Anantapur.
Location: Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh; 138 km from Anantapur
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Explore The Historical Marvel Of Challapalli Rajavari Fort Of Andhra
Among the diverse range of things to do in Anantapur, there’s something to cater to every traveller’s interest. From temples to historical forts and natural wonders, you can explore them all. Plan a trip with TripXL ahead of time to avail some of the best deals and discounts. Sort out your trip to have the best experience exploring the nature and the heritage of the city.
Cover Photo: Dr Murali Mohan Gurram / Wikimedia Commons
