Things To Do
in Chittoor
Chittoor is a market town and district headquarters in Andhra Pradesh, known for its agricultural plain, mango orchards and proximity to hill stations and important temples. The area blends rural traditions with small-town commerce and serves as a gateway to Horsley Hills and several pilgrimage sites. Visitors will find spicy Rayalaseema-influenced Telugu cuisine, open-air markets and a relaxed pace compared with nearby bigger cities.
Chittoor’s location makes it a convenient base for short nature trips, temple visits and experiencing southern Andhra culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the famed Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, offering breathtaking architecture and a serene atmosphere. Marvel at the intricate carvings and the vibrant rituals that take place within the temple grounds. Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like idli and dosa.
After lunch, head to the ancient Chandragiri Fort, where you can explore the remnants of the Vijayanagara Empire. Stroll through the lush gardens, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Engage with the local guides to learn about the fort's rich history and its strategic importance.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Tirumala hills to witness the evening Aarti ceremony at the Venkateswara Temple. The atmosphere is filled with devotion, as thousands gather to participate in this spiritual experience. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in authentic Telugu cuisine.
Start your day with an early morning trek to the beautiful Horsley Hills, where fresh air and stunning views await you. As the sun rises, take in the breathtaking landscapes and the singing of the native birds. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the lush greenery, surrounded by nature's tranquility.
After your trek, visit the local wildlife sanctuary where you can spot various species of flora and fauna. Engage in bird watching or take a guided nature walk to learn about the unique ecosystem of the region. Have a leisurely picnic lunch under the shade of the trees, soaking in the serenity of the wilderness.
As evening approaches, return to Horsley Hills and enjoy a scenic drive through the winding roads. Stop at a viewpoint to catch a stunning sunset over the valleys below. Treat yourself to a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, relishing fresh farm-to-table dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee (local cafe) | $0.8-1.8 |
| 🚌Local bus ride (short) | $0.1-0.5 |
| 🚕Short auto-rickshaw/taxi ride | $1.5-5 |
| 🛌Budget hotel (per night) | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good base for hill stations and temple tourism (Horsley Hills, local temples).
- Authentic Rayalaseema/Andhra cuisine and vibrant local markets (especially mango season).
- Less touristy than major cities — offers genuine small-town cultural experiences.
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale amenities compared with larger cities.
- Summer heat can be intense in the plains; monsoon may disrupt travel to rural spots.
- Public transport within the district can be infrequent for some rural destinations; private vehicle or arranged transport often needed.
- "Namaskaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Dhanyavadamulu" - Thank you
- "Kshaminchandi" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Idhi enta?" - How much is this?
- "Ekkada undi?" - Where is it?
- "Naku sahaayam kavali" - I need help
- "Avunu / Ledu" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Chittoor
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic hill station with panoramic viewpoints, pine-clad slopes, winding roads and sundown vistas — great for landscape and sunrise/sunset shots.
Historic hilltop Ganesha temple with colorful architecture and devotional activity; good for capturing religious rituals and close-up cultural portraits.
Bustling fruit and spice markets with vibrant colors — especially mango stalls during season provide excellent still-life and street photography opportunities.
Forest streams and a dramatic waterfall set in a protected area; ideal for nature and long-exposure water shots.
Scenic agricultural landscapes, village life, and seasonal harvest activity — perfect for documentary-style photography.
Food in Chittoor
Chittoor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tangy seasoned rice commonly made at home and available at local eateries; great as a portable snack or temple offering.
Must-Try!
Gongura (sorrel) chutney served with dal (pappu) and rice — a Rayalaseema staple available in most homes and restaurants.
A spicy, rustic chicken curry slow-cooked with tamarind and traditional spices; find it at family-run restaurants and local messes.
Green gram crepe usually eaten for breakfast with ginger chutney; commonly sold at street stalls and small breakfast joints.
Chittoor district is famous for mango cultivation — try Totapuri and other seasonal varieties at markets when in season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market selling fresh produce, spices and mangoes; ideal for photographing stacked fruit and bargaining for seasonal produce.
Evening vendors offer dosas, mirchi bajji, samosas and sweet treats; a good spot to sample inexpensive local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes before entering temple premises, dress modestly, and follow queueing and prasad rituals. Photography inside sanctums is often restricted — ask first.
Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, address elders respectfully, and accept hospitality politely. Avoid public displays of affection; conservative dress is appreciated in rural and religious areas.
Bargaining is normal in markets — be friendly and fair. Fixed-price stores and supermarkets expect no haggling.
Safety
Tipping in Chittoor
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but modest: round up taxi fares, tip hotel porters INR 20–50, and 5–10% at restaurants if service charge not included. For guides and drivers on day tours, a small daily tip is customary.
Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used, especially in markets and small shops. Debit/credit cards and UPI/mobile wallets are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants and retail outlets; keep small notes for rickshaws and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May are hot and dry with temperatures often high in the plains; mornings and evenings are best for outdoor activities and hill visits like Horsley Hills for relief from heat.
June–September bring variable rains — countryside becomes lush and waterfalls swell, but some rural roads can be muddy and slippery; carry rain gear and expect occasional delays.
October–November offer pleasant weather, clearer skies and comfortable temperatures — a good time for sightseeing, hiking and temple visits.
December–February are mild and comfortable, with cool mornings and evenings but warm days — ideal for outdoor exploring and photography.
Chittoor at Night
Hiking in Chittoor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several short routes through pine forests and viewpoints; accessible, well-known and suitable for most visitors.
Forest trekking routes leading to the Talakona waterfall with varied terrain and scenic forest landscapes.
Less developed trails for hikers seeking quieter routes and rural vistas; best undertaken with a local guide or clear directions.
Easy, low-elevation walks through paddy fields and orchards offering cultural insights and photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Chittoor by plane.
The closest commercial airport serving Tirupati and the region; it connects to major Indian cities and is followed by road or rail transfer to Chittoor.
Major international airport with many domestic and international flights; reachable by road or train from Chittoor in a few hours and offers extensive onward connections.
A larger international airport serving Bangalore with many flight options; a longer drive from Chittoor but useful for international connections or if flying into Bengaluru.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population practicing local customs and festivals tied to agrarian cycles and Hindu temples.
Present as minorities with their own places of worship, markets and cultural contributions to town life.
Large portion of the district population engaged in agriculture — mango orchards, paddy and other crops dominate the rural economy.
Small-business owners, shopkeepers and service-sector workers who run the town’s commerce and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region — local matches and street cricket are common and community-oriented.
Traditional contact sport played in villages and by school teams; popular in rural communities.
Played in schools, colleges and community grounds; common recreational sports among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chittoor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available — Andhra vegetarian meals, dosas, idli and thalis are common. Ask for less oil or spice if needed; ‘no onion, no garlic’ can usually be accommodated at temples and pure vegetarian eateries.
Vegan choices exist (rice, sambar, many vegetable curries) but clarify dairy use in ghee or yogurt in gravies. Street vendors may use butter/ghee—ask explicitly.
Rice-based meals, dosas and idlis are naturally gluten-free. Be cautious with some fried snacks and gravies that may contain wheat; ask the cook.
Cross-contamination can occur; carry translations for common allergens (peanut, dairy, gluten) and medication if you have severe allergies.