Kurnool
Location: In Andhra Pradesh, India.
Significance: Famous for Sreesailam Temple.
Climate: Tropical climate with temperature ranging from 31°C to 44°C in summers and 19°C to 32°C in winters.
Introduction
Kurnool, situated on the southern banks of the Tungabhadra and Handri rivers, has been the capital of Andhra Pradesh for three years from 1953 until 1956. It is said that the Odders who were carting stones for the construction of the temple Alampur used the site as a halting place before crossing the Tungabhadra. They bought oil here to grease their cartwheels and called it 'Kandanavolu', which became Kurnool with time. The most well known even of the city is the car festival of Sri Ajaneyaswami, which is celebrated for eight days from Margasira Suddha Triodasi, which usually falls during November-December, is one of the most important festivals and is also well-attended.
The highlights of the city are the historical ruins of a royal fort belonging to the times of the medieval kingdom of Vijayanagar from 14th to the 16th century. It houses several Persian and Arabic inscriptions throwing light on various aspects of historical interests noted here. The Kondareddy Burz protected under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, the early-17th century tomb of Abdul Wahab on the banks of River Handri, the remains of the palace of Gopal Raju, the last Hindu rulers of Kurnool and the temples of Nagareswarasawami, Peta Anjaneyaswami, Venugoplaswami, Iswaraswami, Saibab and Birla Mandir or Stayanarayaswami, are the place that one should not miss while at Kurnool.
Kurnoor Attractions
Adoni:
The fort belonging to the Vijayanagar Empire is now in ruins. Standing atop the five rocky-granite hills, it houses Jama Masjid, a classic example of Islamic architecture.
Madhavaram:
The village sports an ancient gateway, very much alike the Gateway of India of Mumbai.
Ahobilam:
The Prahlada Varada Laxminarasimha Temple in its lower parts and Nava Narasimha shrine, situated atop a plateau at 2,800 ft above sea level are the highlights of the place.
Sangameswaram:
Situated at the confluence of Bhavanasi and Krishna Rivers, it is also known as Sapta Nandi Sangam. The temple here sports a wooden Lingam.
Thimmapuram:
The shrine of Mahanandiswara and the surrounding temples is known for their architectural beauty and panoramic location. The annual temple festival is in February-March.
How To Reach:
By Air
The nearest airport is at Hyderabad, 219 km from Kurnool.
By Train
Well connected to all the stations from Secunderabad to Bangalore.
By Road
Well connected by bus services to and from Cuddapah, Anantapur, Chittoor and Hyderabad.
