Belum Caves, Andhra Pradesh

Belum Caves, Andhra Pradesh

 Belum Caves is the second largest cave in Indian subcontinent and the longest caves in plains of Indian Subcontinent, known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations. Belum Caves have long passages, spacious chambers, fresh water galleries and siphons.





Description

The caves reach its deepest point (120 feet from entrance level) at the point known as Pataalaganga. Belum Caves derives its name from "Bilum" Sanskrit word for caves. In Telugu language, it is called Belum Guhalu. Belum Caves has a length of 3229 metres, making it the second largest natural caves in Indian Subcontinent.

Other Attractions
• Nallamala forest
• Belum Caves
• Srisailam
• Ketavaram
• Ahobilam
• Mahanandi
• Tadipathri Temples

Accommodation
Andhra Pradesh Tourism Operates Punnami Hotel in the vicinity of Belum Caves. The accommodation offered is a 32-bed dormitory, which is comfortable and clean. There is also a restaurant and a small shop operated by Andhra Pradesh Tourism at the entrance to Belum Caves. One can find accommodation at Tadipatri (30 km) and Banganpalli (20 km), the nearest towns to Belum Caves. Kurnool (106 km) and Anantapur (85 km) are other places, which have good hotels.

Mahanandi

The picturesque village of Mahanandi is located east of Nallamala Hills, near Nandyal, in Kurnool District. The village is enveloped by dense verdant forest. About 15 kilometres from the village are nine shrines to Nandi. Mahanandi is one of the nine shrines. The other eight are Shivanandi, Vinayakanandi, Somanandi, Prathamanandi, Garudanandi, Suryanandi, Krishnanandi (also known as Vishnunandi) and Naganandi The Mahanandiswara Swamy Temple is about 1,500 years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shivalinga in the temple is considered to be unique because it is formed by a rough, uncut rock containing two cavities. Devotees are allowed to touch the shivalinga. There is a huge Nandi located in front of the main shrine. The tower above the shivalinga is what makes this temple unique. It is constructed in the North Indian style of architecture.
Accommodation

Haritha Hotel, Mahanandi

This hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, air-conditioned deluxe rooms, standard rooms and a dormitory with 5 beds. The staff is courteous, polite and friendly, making holidays unique and memorable.