Kadapa, a city steeped in history and culture, lies nestled in the heart of Andhra Pradesh. Known as the gateway to the sacred Tirumala hills, Kadapa boasts a rich legacy of ancient forts, majestic temples, and scenic landscapes. From the architectural beauty of Gandikota Fort—often called the Grand Canyon of India—to the tranquil waters of the Penna River, Kadapa offers a perfect blend of heritage and natural charm. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or an offbeat traveler, Kadapa is a destination waiting to be explored.
1. Gandikota Fort
Gandikota Fort, known as the “Grand Canyon of India,” is a historic 13th-century fort in Andhra Pradesh. Overlooking the dramatic Pennar River gorge, the fort features ancient temples, a mosque, and stunning views, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and nature lovers.
Location : Gandikota Fort is located in Gandikota village, near Jammalamadugu town in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, India.
Timing : Gandikota Fort is generally open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Entry Fee : Gandikota Fort does not have an entry fee, visitors can explore the fort free of charge.
2. Bhagwan Mahavir Government Museum
The Bhagwan Mahavir Government Museum is an archaeological museum located in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. Established in 1982, the museum was funded by a Jain businessman and named after Lord Mahavira.
Location : Railway Colony, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh – 516004, India
Timing : The Bhagwan Mahavir Government Museum in Kadapa operates from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and remains closed on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
Entry Fee : The Bhagwan Mahavir Government Museum in Kadapa charges an entry fee of ₹3 for adults and ₹1 for children.
3. Ameen Peer Dargah
Ameen Peer Dargah, also known as Pedda Dargah, is a revered Sufi shrine located in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, India. Established in the 17th century by Hazrat Khaja Sayyed Sha Peerullah Hussaini, who arrived from Bidar in 1645 AD, the dargah serves as the final resting place for him and his successor, Arifullah Hussaini II.
Location : Ameen Peer Dargah, also known as Pedda Dargah, is located at Ameen Peer Road, YV Street, Ganagapeta, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh 516001, India.
Timing : The Ameen Peer Dargah in Kadapa operates on the following schedule:
- Saturday to Thursday:
- Morning: 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM
- Evening: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday:
- Afternoon: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee for visitors.
4. Palakondalu Waterfalls
Palakondalu Waterfalls, also known as Palkonda Waterfalls, is a picturesque natural attraction located near Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh, India. The name “Palkonda” translates to “Milk Hills,” inspired by the legend that the water flowing through these verdant hills is as pure as milk.
Location : Paalakondalu Waterfalls is located near Puttampalli village, around 7 kilometers from Kadapa city, in Andhra Pradesh, India.
Timing : Palakondalu Waterfalls does not have officially designated operating hours, as it is a natural site open to the public.
Entry Fee : there is no entry fee to visit the waterfalls.
5. Veerabhadra Swamy Temple
The Veerabhadra Swamy Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located in Rayachoti, a town in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, India. This ancient temple, believed to be over a thousand years old, is dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, an intense manifestation of Lord Shiva.
Location : Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple Kothapeta, Rayachoti Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh 516269
Timing : The Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple in Rayachoti operates during the following hours:
- Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Entry Fee : The Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple in Rayachoti does not charge an entry fee for general darshan.
6. Kodandarama Temple
The Kodandarama Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located in Vontimitta, a town in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Location : NH716, Vontimitta, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh 516213, India
Timing : The Kodandarama Temple in Vontimitta operates daily with the following schedule:
- Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Afternoon Break: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee : The Kodandarama Temple in Vontimitta offers free general darshan to all devotees.
Famous Food In Kadapa
1. Kadapa Karam Dosa
Kadapa Karam Dosa is a must-try dish for spice lovers visiting the region. Unlike the regular dosa, this one packs a fiery punch thanks to its signature karam (spicy chutney) smeared right on top.
Ingredients : Idli rice, urad dal, poha, dry red chillies and spices
2. Ulava Charu
Ulava Charu is a delicious, rich, and earthy dish from Andhra Pradesh, especially loved in regions like Kadapa, Guntur, and Krishna districts. It’s often called the “Andhra Rasam”, but it’s thicker, heartier, and made from horse gram (ulavalu).
Ingredients : horse gram and spices
3. Bongu Chicken
Bongu Chicken, also known as Bamboo Chicken, is a tribal delicacy from the forest regions of Andhra Pradesh, especially popular in Kadapa, Araku, and Paderu. It’s rustic, smoky, and cooked inside bamboo stalks.
Ingredients : chicken and spices
4. Avakaya
Avakaya is the spicy queen of Andhra pickles, and no Andhra meal is ever truly complete without a spoonful of it on the side! 🌶️🥭 It’s made with raw mangoes, lots of red chili powder, and mustard seeds, and it packs a punch of heat, tang, and bold flavor.
Ingredients : raw mango pieces, red chilli powder and spices
