The westernmost district of Andhra Pradesh, Anantapur is a hub of culture and history. Anantapura is famous as it is the birthplace of Sri Satya Sai Baba. The city is located in the Rayalaseema uplands region, about 80 miles (130 km) south-southwest of Kurnool and 120 miles (190 km) north of Bengaluru (Bangalore), Karnataka state. This beautiful district has several temples and apart from it, the entire district is known for silk trade. Anantapur lies on the main road between Hyderabad, Telangana state, (north) and Bengaluru. The city’s name is derived from Ananda, the name of the wife of the diwan (official) of the medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar who built the city.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Puttaparthi
- Hindupur
- Guntakal
- Dharmavaram
- Kadiri
- Gooty
- Tadipatri
- Hemavathi
- Penukonda
- Lepakshi
- Tadipatri
- Penna Ahobilam
- Thimmamma Marrimanu (Banayan Tree)
- Yogi Vemana Samadhi
- Gugudu, Yadiki Caves
How to Reach:
The best way to reach Anantapur is by train. There are railway stations like Anantapur (ATP), Virapur (VP), Somalapuram (SLM), Basampalle (BSPL), Narayanapuram (NRYP), Taticherla (TAC) from where trains are available for major cities in India.
Best Time to Visit:
September to March.