A charming city in the south-Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, Kurnool is a must-visit destination for all history buffs. Located on the banks of the mighty Tungabhadra River, the town has been inhabited since ancient times. Successive rulers have left their mark on the town. Kurnool is an amalgamation of two words in the local language that mean a spot where the wheels of bullock carts were greased. It has been a part of the Chola dynasty, Kakatiyas and the great Vijayanagara Empire in the past. It was then ruled by the Mughals before being captured by the British. Numerous forts, temples, tombs, and historical ruins can be explored here. Check out our recommendations for the best things to do in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
1. Admire the 17th-century tomb of Abdul Wahab
Bearing a striking resemblance to the more popular Gol Gumbaz of Bijapur, the tomb of Abdul Wahab is one of the highlights of Kurnool. It was erected in memory of the first Mughal ruler of the region, Abdul Wahab Khan, who captured the town from its former Vijayanagara rulers. It is a lovely example of traditional Mughal craftsmanship with intricate carvings, arches, two domes, and other features grabbing the visitors’ attention. This 17th-century structure offers great photo opportunities as well.
Tomb of Abdul Wahab
Address: Abdul Wahab Khan Gumbad, Osmania College Rd, Peta, KVR Garden Colony, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001, India
2. Offer prayers at Nagareswarasawami
Nagareswarasawami is a prominent temple in Kurnool dedicated to Hindu deities. It is one of the main temples in town and one that is visited by people from far and wide. Worshippers throng to this temple during Hindu festivals and auspicious occasions. Tourists can admire its beautiful architecture, carvings, detailed statues, and figurines, which is a typical representation of the traditional temple style of south India. For believers, offering prayers at Nagareswarasawami is one of the must-do things in Kurnool.
Nagareswarasawami
Address: N R Peta, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001, India
Price: Free
3. Click a picture with Buddha statue, Kurnool
In stark contrast to the earthy brown surroundings is the massive white statue of Buddha in Kurnool. Framed against a hillock, the statue is an imposing structure that portrays Buddha in the seated position with one hand raised in blessing. A giant lotus, which also doubles up as a room, forms the base of this statue. Constructed by the tourism board of the state, it is 40 feet (12 metres) tall and sees many visitors each year. When in Kurnool, do drop by to click a picture with this magnificent statue.
Buddha statue, Kurnool
Address: Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, India
4. Pray for your family at Sai Baba Temple
With a unique star-shaped construction, Sai Baba Temple is an unmissable attraction in Kurnool. Dedicated to the Indian saint, Sai Baba, the temple attracts thousands of devotees each year. It has a marble statue of Sai Baba in the sanctum sanctorum and a tall and an intricately carved tower-like structure atop the star-shaped temple. Tungabhadra River flows right next to the temple, making it the ultimate place to visit if you seek spirituality and peace along with natural beauty.
Sai Baba Temple
Address: Konda Reddy Buruju Opposite the District Civil Court, Kurnool India
Price: Free
5. Explore Konda Reddy Fort
Constructed in the 1500s by the Vijayanagara ruler, King Achyuta Raya, Konda Reddy Fort is a major landmark in Kurnool. Also known as Kurnool Fort or ‘Kondareddy Buruju’ in the local language, it is a massive fort that is named after the last ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire. Located in the centre of town, this fort has many levels, bastions, gateways and tunnels. The tunnels are now sealed but visitors can explore the other areas of the fort. A huge watchtower also rises out of the fort.
Konda Reddy Fort
Address: Old Bus Stand Area, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001, India
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
6. Shop if you need at Jyoti Mall
For a bit of retail therapy in Kurnool, make your way to Jyoti Mall. This mall is a popular shopping outlet in the city and offers a range of stores, entertainment avenues, dining options and more. It houses stores of many famous Indian brands selling menswear, women’s fashion, kidswear, home goods, etc. The mall’s food court is perfect for taking a break from all the shopping. An entertainment area with games for children and a multiplex showcasing the latest movies is also located in the mall. It is definitely a fun place to hang out for the entire family!
Jyoti Mall
Address: 40-323 Park Road Opp Zilla Praja Parishad, Gandhi Nagar, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001, India
Website: Jyoti Mall
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
7. Feel the spirituality at Shikaresvara Temple
Shikaresvara Temple is a popular attraction and a major place of worship in Kurnool. Located in Srisailam area, this temple is situated atop a hill and dedicated to the ‘Veera Shankara Swami’ avatar of the Hindu deity, Shiva. Worshippers throng to this temple to seek the deity’s blessings and to enjoy stunning bird’s-eye views of the natural surroundings. People often try to spot the ornately carved entrance tower called 'gopura’ of the nearby Mallikarjuna temple.
Shikaresvara Temple
Address: Nallamala Hills, Srisailam, Kurnool India
Opening hours: 6am - 2pm, 5pm - 8:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
8. Chill out at 7 Rivers Restaurant Amusement Park
To unwind and relax in Kurnool, head down to 7 Rivers Restaurant Amusement Park. This hang-out spot is a resort, restaurant and amusement park, all rolled into one! It has a large and well-maintained swimming pool, an amusement park-like area with games and rides, a cycling track, a tennis court and many other recreational activities. A restaurant that serves scrumptious good and a resort with spacious rooms are also available here. It is a good place to spend a day or the entire weekend with family or friends in Kurnool.
7 Rivers Restaurant Amusement Park
Address: NH 44, opp. Harsha Toyota, Santosh Nagar Colony, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518006, India
Website: 7 Rivers Restaurant Amusement Park
Opening hours: 10am - 10:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
9. Go gold shopping at Shroff Bazaar
If you want an old-school shopping experience in Kurnool, then swing by Shroff Bazaar. It is said to be the oldest market in the city and is renowned for its gold and silver shops. A range of outlets selling traditional gold jewellery for various occasions is located here. Bangles, earrings, rings, necklaces and other intricately designed jewellery can be purchased at Shroff Bazaar. This market is frequented by people from the city as well as nearby villages.
Shroff Bazaar
Address: Coles College Rd, Marwari Street, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518001, India
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
10. Sample some tasty treats at G. Pulla Reddy Sweets
Add a dash of sweetness to your Kurnool trip by sampling traditional sweetmeats at G. Pulla Reddy Sweets. The shop started life over 70 years ago in the old market area of Kurnool where the owner first started selling sweets made from pure ghee. As the popularity of his sweets increased, he opened more shops in both Kurnool and Hyderabad. G. Pulla Reddy Sweets now has several branches across the world and specialises in selling sweets made from pure ghee, like Mysore Pak, badusha, burfi, and more. You can even try milk sweets, savouries, and snacks at the shop.
G. Pulla Reddy Sweets
Address: Shop no: 7, Collectorate Complex, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518002, India
Website: G. Pulla Reddy Sweets
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
Lots to see and do in Kurnool
Temples, tombs, forts, malls, parks and restaurants come together to give visitors a wholesome travel experience in Kurnool. Savour beautiful nature views or enjoy amazing shopping opportunities, Kurnool will surely keep you occupied. Before you visit this amazing city, do remember to check out our list of the best things to do in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
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