In and around Chittoor, you will find many places that represent the rich culture and tradition of the place. Chittoor not only has historic association, it has to offer some of the most picturesque landscapes in Andhra Pradesh. The richest temple in the world is located in Chittoor district. Chittoor has a perfect blend of various elements to satisfy spiritual, religious and artistic minded persons and not to leave out those who love history. Here are the most important 8 places to visit in Chittoor that you need to see on you stay here.
1. Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills is a hill station in Chittoor. It is called ‘Andhra Ooty’. This would be a great place if you want to relax and not keen to be looking for some place to visit. The views are picturesque and the weather is awesome. An ideal place with a serene atmosphere if you are keen to rejuvenate your spirits. Trekking would be challenging and you can indulge in other outdoor activities like swimming and archery. Children will love the park and the small zoo here.
2. Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary
Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is located 60 km from Chittoor. The sanctuary is located in a picturesque setting with valleys and hills surrounding it. Spread across 358 sq.km of land, the sanctuary has a wide range of plants and animals. The wild animals found here include elephants, Himalayan black bear, hippopotamus, jackals, sloth bear, hyena, panther and many more. Kaigal and Kaundinya are the two streams that flow through this sanctuary and make it more enchanting.
3. Kalavagunta
Kalavagunta is situated at the convergence of Aragonda and Ponnai rivers. It is located 8 km away from Chittoor and it houses temples of historic importance. The two famous temples found here belong to the 9th century and they are built in Chola architectural style. The carvings are intricate and the architecture brilliant.
4. Gurramkonda Fort
Gurramkonda Fort is located on top of a hill that is 500 foot high. Initially, the fort was constructed using mud and rock during the Vijayanagar empire and later went into the hands of Golconda sultans. It was during this period the fort was strengthened with rock walls. The famous Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan had occupied the fort before they succumbed to British.
5. Nagari Hills
Situated on the banks of River Kusasthali, Nagari is a favorite tourist spot. Nagari Hills has an elevation of about 855 meters. Its highest cliff strikes resemblance with human nose and hence it is famously called the ‘Nagari Nose’. Mountaineers love the place as it offers wide scope for challenging expeditions. Nagari has many famous temples and hence it is frequently visited by pilgrims.
6. Sri Venkateswara Temple
One of the most famous and ancient temples is Sri Venkateswara Temple. Dedicated to Lord Balaji, famously known as Venkateswara, the temple belongs to the 12th century. It is located at an height of 853 meter from sea level. The temple is a favorite spot for pilgrims. The architecture of the temple is a combination of the style of Chola, Pandya and the Pallava. The gold plated dome and the Papanasam waterfalls attract tourists.
7. Mogili
The coastal village Mogili is situated 25 km away from Chittoor. The place houses a famous temple called Mogileeswara temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and its sculptural work is amazing. It is said that the pond in the temple does not dry even in peak summer. The first day of January sees a great number of pilgrims to this spot.
8. Ramagiri
Image credit – Urssiva, CC BY-SA 3.0
Ramagiri is also called as Bhairava Kshethra. The small village houses some of the famous ancient temples. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated at the base of the hill and another famous temple dedicated to Lord Muruga is at the hilltop. The tank close to the temple is said to contain medicinal properties. The water flows from mountaintop and it is said to carry the medicinal properties of herbs.
If you are looking for a relaxed holiday and visit some places of historic importance including ancient temples, you are sure to find tourist places in Chittoor fit the bill perfectly. Make sure you head towards the place when the climate is right.
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Hi,
The information is very useful. Can you let me know the landmark nearer to “Sri Venkateswara Temple” and also the timing of the temple?
One of the most famous and ancient temples is Sri Venkateswara Temple. Dedicated to Lord Balaji, famously known as Venkateswara, the temple belongs to the 12th century. It is located at an height of 853 meter from sea level.
Is it really located near chittoor? if yes, Please share the address or area name.