Things To Do
in Ellore
Eluru, commonly referred to as Ellore, is a historic city in Andhra Pradesh known for its calm waterways, traditional markets, and a relaxed pace of life. Located in the West Godavari district, it serves as a quieter gateway to rural Andhra and the nearby Kolleru wetlands. The city blends heritage temples, handloom weaving, and approachable South Indian cuisine into a welcoming, village-to-city travel experience.
Visitors will find easy day trips to nature reserves, temple complexes, and scenic canal-side walks, all within a comfortable, walkable footprint.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the magnificent Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the intricate rock-cut architecture and the stunning sculptures that date back to the 5th century. Spend time at the Kailasa temple, the largest monolithic structure carved from a single rock.
Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties like puran poli and misal pav. After lunch, continue your exploration of the caves, focusing on the Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples that showcase the region's rich spiritual history. Take a leisurely walk around the site, soaking in the historical significance of these ancient structures.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful moment at the base of the hills, watching the changing colors of the sky. Consider visiting a local market to pick up handicrafts and souvenirs that reflect the rich heritage of the region. Conclude your day with a traditional dinner at a local eatery, sharing stories of your experiences.
Begin your day with a visit to the Grishneshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Participate in the morning Aarti, where you can witness the spiritual fervor of the devotees and the beautiful rituals performed by the priests. Explore the temple's exquisite carvings and architecture while learning about its historical significance.
After visiting the temple, enjoy a lunch of authentic South Indian cuisine at a local restaurant, trying dishes such as dosa and idli. Post-lunch, take a short drive to the nearby Ellora village to experience the local lifestyle and culture. Engage with artisans and craftsmen, learning about their traditional trades and skills.
Return to your accommodation to relax and unwind after a day of exploration. In the evening, visit a local café to enjoy a cup of chai while watching the sunset over the hills. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the village, absorbing the night’s ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a mid-range café | $2-4 |
| 🧵Local handloom fabric or saree | $15-60 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-5 km) | $4-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, walkable city with easy access to rural Andhra and natural wetlands
- Affordable cuisine, welcoming locals, and strong handloom traditions
- Good base for birdwatching at Kolleru Lake and temple touring
- Moderate size for uncomplicated navigation and less crowds
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues compared with larger cities
- Summer heat can be extreme; monsoon can bring travel delays
- Some attractions require road trips of up to 1–2 hours
- Smaller scale of international amenities compared with metro centers
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Meeru ela unnaru?" - How are you? (polite)
- "Dhanyavaadalu" - Thank you
- "Dayachesi" - Please
- "Cheppandi" - Excuse me / Please tell me
Places to Visit in Ellore
Visit one of these nice places.
Open water and reeds provide a scenic backdrop for sunrise or sunset photography and birdwatching silhouettes.
Wide canal banks with long shadows at golden hour, ideal for reflection shots and silhouettes.
Architectural details, courtyards, and vibrant festival scenes offer strong cultural photography opportunities.
Colorful textiles and weaving looms create a vivid, textural photo subject amid a working environment.
Food in Ellore
Ellore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A green gram dosa typically served with ginger chutney or upma; a quintessential Andhra breakfast.
Must-Try!
Eggplant stuffed with peanut-chili masala, commonly enjoyed with rice or roti.
Tamarind rice seasoned with curry leaves and peanuts; a tangy staple often served with chutneys.
Spicy, tangy fish curry cooked with coconut and tamarind, best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market where you can taste fresh produce, pickles, spices, and quick bites from street stalls.
Stalls offering mirchi bajji (chili fritters), vadas, spicy snacks, and sweets; great for an informal tasting session.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before temple entry, and ask before photographing people or ritual performances.
A polite Namaskaram or handshakes are common; use formal address with elders and show respect in conversations.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many areas; conserve loud talking in religious or sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Ellore
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is common if service is good. Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small, informal eateries.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops and restaurants also accept cards, and mobile wallets/UPI are increasingly popular for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically hot and dry from March to May, with temperatures often climbing above 40°C (104°F). Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
The region sees rainfall from June to October; expect humidity and lush landscapes, with occasional flooding in low-lying areas. Carry a compact umbrella and water-resistant gear.
Milder and more comfortable, with temperatures commonly from 15–25°C (59–77°F). This is a good time for outdoor photography and city strolls.
Ellore at Night
Hiking in Ellore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, nature-centered route near Eluru offering flat, easy trails and opportunities for bird photography and quiet nature walks.
Relaxed, accessible paths along irrigation canals suitable for casual hikes and sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Ellore by plane.
Major regional airport with domestic and limited international connections; roughly 60–90 km by road from Eluru.
Regional airport serving nearby districts; about 120–150 km from Eluru by road, suitable for shorter domestic hops.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Telugu-speaking residents with Hindu majority, plus small communities of Muslims and Christians.
A mix of traditional handloom workers, farmers, traders, and service-sector employees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport with local-friendly matches and informal play in parks and grounds.
Common in community centers and clubs, especially among younger residents.
Traditional sport visible in schools and local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ellore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; communicate clearly to avoid hidden non-veg ingredients in gravies or broths.