Kadapa, formerly spelt as Cuddapah, is a city of historical significance in Andhra Pradesh. It has derived its name from Telugu word 'Gadapa', which means 'threshold'. Since the city acts like a gateway from the north to the blessed hill of Shri Venkateshwara, it was named as Kadapa. Cuddapah forms a major part of the state's tourism. Bordered on three sides by the Nallamala and Palakonda hills, the lovely city is located about 8 km to the south of Penna River.
The chronological events affirm that Kadapa had been ruled by the Cholas and the Kakatiyas from the 11th to 14th century. Later, it was swayed by the kings of Vijayanagar Empire and subsequently, by the Muslims of Golkonda. In 1800, the British had power over Cuddapah. Though it is an ancient town, it was essentially extended by the Nawabs. The city still houses the ruins and remnants of the erstwhile royalty.
The ancient city has many primordial temples and mosques to boast of. Exotic variety of flora and fauna revitalizes the lackluster monuments. Cuddapah also has the distinction of embracing Maghdoom-e-Ilahi, which is one amongst the biggest shrines in the Rayalaseema region. To put succinctly, Kadapa is one of the place to explore the relics of the times of yore.
Places to See:
Brahmamgari Matam Temple
In Andhra Pradesh, Brahmamgari was a famous person who envisaged many events of the Dark Age (Kaliyuga). In fact, what all he predicted has really happened. Brahmamgari Matam Temple is dedicated to the legend. People still believe that Brahmamgari will appear as Veerabhoga Vasantha Rayalu in Kaliyuga, to demolish the evil forces and restore the values.
Sri Venkateswara Temple
Considered the door step for Lord Venkateshwara, Sri Venkateswara Temple is visited by thousands of devotees. It is said that one should visit this temple before going to Tirupati, in order to accomplish their pilgrimage. The unique feature about this shrine is that here, Lord Anjaneya's idol is placed right behind the idol of Sri Venkateswara.
Sri Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple
Sri Kodanda Ramaswamy temple is dedicated to Sri Kodanda, one of the most worshipped deities in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is located in Vontimitta town and is about 25 km away from Kadapa. The majestic gateway and magnificent architecture of the temple allures its tourists.
Veerabhadra Swamy Temple
One of the famous temples of the region, Veerabhadra Swamy Temple is to be found on the Mydukur-Proddutur Road. Situated on the banks of Kundu River, the temple attracts people in large number. The festival of Maha Shivratri is observed here with grand celebrations.
Tallapaka Temples
Tallapaka, a small village located in the Rajampet mandal of Kadapa district, is abode to a number of temples that attract the tourists due to their architectural magnificence. Apart from the temples, the village gains prominence, because it is the birth place of Saint Annamacharya, the composer of some of the popular devotional songs dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.
Pushpagiri Temples
One of the pilgrimage destinations of Kadapa district, Pushpagiri is house to a group of temples, popularly referred to as 'Pushpagiri Temples'. Built on the banks of River Pennar during the Vijayanagara period, Pushpagiri Temples are located 16 kms away from the city of Kadapa. Famous for its numerous temples, Pushpagiri holds significance for being the only holy place for both Shaivas and Vaishnavas.
Bhagavan Mahavir Government Museum
Bhagavan Mahavir Government Museum has been established by the Government to conserve the important artifacts of the primeval age. It has a collection of valued bronze icons, antediluvian stone sculptures and primitive inscriptions. The priceless artifacts peep into the ancient civilization.
Ontimitta
Ontimitta is a small town, renowned for Kodanda Rama Swami Temple. The aesthetic splendor of this temple has been mentioned in the travelogues of Tavernier, a French traveler who visited the place in 1652. Its colossal size and artistic beauty attracts people from far and wide.
Devuni Kadapa
Near Kadapa city, Devuni Kadapa is a place that is believed to be the doorstep of Tirupati. Before proceeding towards Tirumala Tirupati, the pilgrims stop at this place to pay their homage to the presiding deity.
Ankalamma Gudur
Abode of Ankalamma Swamy, Ankalamma Gudur is the famous place sited on Pulivenlda-Simhadripuram Road. Ankalamma Swamy Temple is visited by hundreds of people on Thursdays and Sundays.
Gandikota Fort
Situated on the right banks of River Pennar, Gandikota village is renowned for its Fort. Gandikota Fort is beautified with the picturesque beauty of nature and wild forest, thereby making it one of the tourist attractions of Kadapa. The history of the Fort dates back to 112 A.D. Historical records suggests that the Fort was prominent during Kakatiya, Vijayanagara and Qutub Shahi periods.
Ameen Peer Dargah
Kadapa district is a much visited destination by Muslims as well, because the well known Ameen Peer Dargah is located there. The 325 year of Dargah is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. One can witness flock of devotees especially on Thursdays and Fridays, because they visit the Dargah to seek blessings of Saint Peerullah Hussaini and Saint Arifullah Hussaini, who were buried here.
Lankamala Sanctuary
Lankamala Sanctuary, one of the major tourist attractions of Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, is spread over 464.42 sq km of area. It is about 15km away from the city of Cuddapah. The sanctuary is characterized by steep slopes and deep gorges. Waterfalls in its premises add to its picturesque beauty. It is home to a number of endemic species, while its forest consists of dry deciduous and dry evergreen shrubs.
Located in Rajampet, Sri Venkateswara Wild Life Sanctuary is a very popular national park. It is home to rare and slender Lories. Plant species like Sandalwood, Thumbergiana, Shorea and Redsandars can be found in the sanctuary.
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