Amazing Places to Visit in Eluru
Exploring Eluru – A Potpourri of Andhra Pradesh’s Cultural Riches
Nestled on the verdant banks of river Tammileru, Eluru is a vibrant city in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Covering all the best places to visit in Eluru. Once hailed as the heartland of the ancient Kalinga kingdom, it is now the district headquarters of West Godavari.
Beyond the bustling bazaars and commercial hubs lies a treasure trove of architectural marvels, scenic nature spots and spiritual havens waiting to be uncovered!
This Eluru travel guide maps ancient carved temples, and historic sites like Gandhi Hill and Kondapalli Fort to misty hills. Let’s find out places to visit in Eluru.
Places to Visit in Eluru
This article captures the essence of culture, heritage and tourism offering of best places to visit in Eluru.
Start planning your next holiday effectively!
Prominent Temples
With a blend of ornate Dravidian as well as regal Vijayanagara architectural styles, the ancient temples of Eluru provide a glimpse into its glorious past:
Sri Someswara Janardhana Swamy Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu, this 13th-century temple is renowned for its intricately carved stone pillars within the ‘mukhamantapa’ hall. Intriguing inscriptions on its walls highlight Eluru’s historical significance.
Dwaraka Tirumala: One of India’s acclaimed Vaishnavite shrines about 40 km from Eluru city. The impressive gopurams and mandapas display fine craftsmanship in black granite stone celebrating Lord Venkateswara. The vibrant Brahmotsavam festival draws over a million devotees.
Sri Matsyagundam: This 15th-century temple honors Goddess Matsyagandhi consort of Lord Shiva. The structures showcase a fusion of classic Kalinga architecture infused with Dravidian elements. The archeological museum near premises houses rare palm leaf inscriptions.
Gudimetta Anjaneya Swamy Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this shrine atop a small hillock offers panoramic views of Eluru city and becomes one of the best places visit in eluru. The larger than life size idol carved out of a single black stone is an awe-inspiring sight.
Historic Monuments
Eluru district serves up some fascinating historic sites offering glimpses into its grand heritage over centuries:
Kondapalli Fort: Once the military fortress for Vijayanagara rulers, this 14th century fort sprawls over 300+ acres in the suburbs of Vijaywada. Still intact bastions, granaries, ponds and temples make it an architectural delight worth exploring.
Kolleru Lake: One of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes dating back thousands of years. Watch tiny islands dotted with temples emerge during summer. Migratory birds, marsh crocodiles and much more rare flora-fauna thrive by lake’s biodiverse wetlands.
Gandhi Hill: Erected in honor of the Father of the Nation, this site marks Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to Eluru in 1933. His relics commemorate India’s struggle for independence as national sentiments overwhelm visitors here.
You can also check out our guide for places to visit Barrackpore.
Nature Escapes
Some the most popular nature getaways promises relaxing times amidst scenic locales:
Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary near Guntur: Spot a mind-boggling variety of winged beauties from painted storks to pelicans Thousands migrate here each winter making it a bird watcher’s paradise.
Mangalgiri Hills: Dotted with ancient shrines, these scenic hillocks serve up moderate trekking trails. Mist-laden peaks offering panoramas of Vijaywada city down below make it worthwhile mini-adventure and spiritual experience.
Nagarjuna Sagar Dam: Spend time boating in the expansive reservoir flanked by the mammoth dam. Or hike up Ethipothala Falls dropping from impressive heights into the lagoon-like waters. Scenic spot for family picnics popular all year round.
Excursions Around Eluru
Some fabulous destinations for memorable day trips or short excursions:
- Vijaywada: Also hailed as the business hub of new Andhra state. Must-see attractions are heritage sites like Undavalli Caves, Prakasam Barrage, Bhavani Island and the opulent Kanaka Durga Temple.
- Rajahmundry: Explore this scenic town on the banks of Godavari river. Key sights are the picturesque Dowleswaram Barrage, Markandeya temple, ISKON Temple
- Visakhapatnam: Gorge on seafood delicacies and indulge in water sports like scuba diving rafting across numerous beaches dotting Vizag city. Also tour majestic Buddhist sites and scenic Araku Valley nearby.
Getting to Eluru
Eluru is well connected by air, rail and road to major metropolitans. Located enroute important National Highways, regular state transport and private buses make journey fairly smooth. Vadlamannadu railway junction provides direct train links even as Vijaywada airport serves nearest air connectivity just 2 hours away.
With heritage temples coexisting in harmony with vibrant commerce, Eluru offers intriguing travel experience for history lovers, spiritual souls as well as those seeking to discover Andhra’s regional sights and culture off the beaten track!
