Things To Do
in Anantpur
Anantapur, officially Anantapuramu, is a sun-baked inland city in Andhra Pradesh that blends ancient temples with rugged Deccan landscapes. It serves as a gateway to centuries-old forts, sacred sites, and the agricultural heartland of the region. The city is known for its markets, historical ruins, and a climate that tests visitors with heat and resilience.
Use Anantapur as a base to explore Lepakshi, Penukonda Fort, and nearby hill stations while sampling spicy Andhra cuisine along the way.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the iconic Gooty Fort, where you can hike up to enjoy panoramic views of the landscape. Experience the early morning tranquility as you navigate the historic architecture and lush greenery surrounding the fort. Capture stunning photos of the sunrise against the backdrop of the ancient walls.
After exploring the fort, head to the Ananthasayana Temple, an architectural marvel that showcases intricate carvings and rich history. Spend your afternoon learning about the local legends and significance of the temple while appreciating its peaceful ambiance. Don't forget to grab a local lunch at one of the nearby eateries that serve traditional Andhra cuisine.
Wrap up your day by wandering through the local markets, where the vibrant atmosphere is filled with the sounds of bargaining and the aroma of street food. Enjoy sampling various regional snacks as you discover unique handicrafts and souvenirs. As the sun sets, take a moment to sit at a local café, sipping tea while watching the bustling life of Anantapur unfold.
Begin your day with a visit to the NTR University of Health Sciences, noted for its impressive architecture and serene gardens. Engage with students and faculty to understand the educational culture and local health initiatives. Enjoy a refreshing morning walk in the well-maintained campus grounds.
Visit the Dharmavaram Saree Weaving Town, famous for its exquisite handloom sarees, to see artisans at work. Participate in a workshop to learn about the saree-making process and its historical significance in the region. Savor a traditional lunch at a local restaurant that specializes in regional delicacies.
As dusk falls, head to the local cultural center for a performance featuring classical dance or music that embodies the artistic spirit of Andhra Pradesh. Engage with the performers and deepen your appreciation for their craft. End your day with a relaxing stroll around the beautiful parks in Anantapur, where you can unwind beneath the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚌One-way local transport (bus/taxi within town) | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Budget hotel / guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich temple architecture and historical forts within a short drive
- Low-cost travel with abundant street food and friendly locals
- Can be very hot in summer and the infrastructure is more basic than big metro cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer mainstream tourist facilities compared with larger destinations
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Meeru ela unnaru?" - How are you?
- "Nenu Anantapur nunchi vachchaanu" - I am from Anantapur
- "Dayachesi" - Please
- "Dhanyavaadam" - Thank you
- "Meevu chusaaru?" - Do you understand?
Places to Visit in Anantpur
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Vijayanagara-era temple renowned for its vibrant frescoes, giant Nandi statue, and the famous hanging pillar; a must for architectural and detail photography.
Hilltop fortress ruins offering expansive views over the plains and a sense of historical scale, ideal for wide-angle and sunset shots.
Scenic hill station viewpoint with forested slopes and cooling vistas, perfect for landscape photography and misty morning photography when accessible.
Colorful textile workshops and markets provide vibrant portraits of artisans at work and close-ups of traditional looms and fabrics.
Food in Anantpur
Anantpur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, fragrant rice dish tempered with tamarind, curry leaves, and spices; a staple in Andhra households and a popular takeaway item.
Must-Try!
A sour, spicy pickle made from gongura (sorrel) leaves; pairs with rice, dal, and flatbreads for a signature Andhra flavor.
Eggplants stuffed with sesame, peanut paste, and spices, slow-cooked to a rich, savory curry that showcases regional vegetarian cooking.
A lentil-based pancake or crepe often served with ginger chutney, reflecting the region’s adaptation of groundnut and green-gram preparations.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market area offering fresh produce, spices, pulses, and regional snacks; best explored in the morning for live activity and aromas.
Lanes lined with vendors selling dosas, idlis, vadas, mirchi bajji, and quick chaat; great for inexpensive, flavorful bites on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove footwear before entering temples, and seek permission before photographs inside sacred spaces. On greetings, use a respectful tone and avoid pointing feet toward religious icons.
Public displays of affection are discouraged in rural areas; hospitality is valued, and offering seats or sharing food is common courtesy.
Telugu is widely spoken; use polite phrases and avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces. When in doubt, observe locals and follow their lead.
Safety
Tipping in Anantpur
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, consider rounding up or leaving 5-10% if service charge is not included. For local street vendors, small change and courtesy are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted in town markets and smaller eateries. Cards are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels; digital wallets (UPI/PhonePe/Paytm) are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings extreme heat with daytime temperatures often surpassing 40°C. Carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak sun.
June to September sees the southwest monsoon with variable rainfall and humidity. Expect lush landscapes after rain, but occasional downpours can disrupt outdoor plans.
November to February offers milder days and cooler evenings, making temple visits and outdoor exploration more comfortable. Nights can be cool, so bring a light jacket.
Dry spells between monsoon seasons are common; plan travel around temple fairs and local festivals to experience culture and traditional performances.
Anantpur at Night
Hiking in Anantpur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hill trails around Penukonda Fort with panoramic views and historical ruins—accessible for a half-day hike.
Popular hill station with forested paths and viewpoints; offers cooler air and scenic treks in appropriate weather.
Airports
How to reach Anantpur by plane.
A major regional airport serving domestic and some international flights; provides onward connections to major Indian cities and beyond; drive time to Anantapur is a long but feasible day trip or overnight journey.
A large international hub about a few hours’ flight away and reachable by road/train; frequent domestic connections to other Indian cities and international routes.
A well-connected regional airport with domestic flights and convenient rail links; closer than some other hubs for certain itineraries in Andhra Pradesh.
A smaller regional airport serving limited flights; useful for regional travel within Andhra Pradesh and nearby states.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant linguistic group with Hindu-majority demographics; diverse communities including Muslims and Christians present in the city and surrounding towns.
Communities connected to cotton, groundnuts, and rice farming, contributing to local markets and crafts such as silk weaving.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local leagues and informal games in parks and school grounds.
A traditional contact sport often played in villages and local tournaments.
Common in community centers and gymnasiums; suitable for indoor and outdoor play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anantpur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries in Anantapur offer ample vegetarian options—marked bowls, dals, curries, and rice-based meals. Look for thali-style meals and clearly label dishes with ghee or spice levels; ask for spice-adjusted preparations when needed.