Belum Caves are situated in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of India's longest caves and the second-largest cave in the Indian subcontinent. Belum Caves have a length of 3229 meters and a depth of 120 meters. It was discovered in 1982 and is believed to be over 3 million years old. The caves are rich in deposits of stalactites and stalagmites.
Belum Caves are a major tourist attraction known for their majestic beauty. The cave has many chambers, galleries, passages and huge halls. The cave walls are made up of lime and quartzite rocks, and the cave is rich in deposits of limestone, quartzite and other minerals. The walls have many paintings and sculptures of animals and birds. One of the remarkable features of the cave is the presence of a huge Indian Flag and the image of a trident on the wall. The shelter also houses a large number of bats and blind fish.
The temperature inside the cave ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the humidity level is around 90 %. The cave is well-lit, and visitors can explore the cave by taking a guided tour. The visitors are allowed to explore the cave independently, but they must wear protective gear to avoid any injuries.
Places To Visit In Andhra Pradesh Near Belum Caves:
Belum Caves is a popular tourist destination located in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. Known for its stunning underground formations, Belum Caves attract visitors from near and far. While visiting Belum Caves, you can explore several other attractions in the surrounding areas. Here are a few notable places to visit in Andhra Pradesh near Belum Caves:
Located approximately 60 kilometers from Belum Caves, Gandikota is a picturesque village known for its stunning landscapes and historical significance. It is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of India" due to its resemblance to the Grand Canyon in the United States. The impressive Gandikota Fort, situated on the banks of the Penna River, is a major attraction in the area.
Situated around 80 kilometers from Belum Caves, Yaganti is a small temple town known for its ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is carved out of a single rock and is known for its unique architectural features. The town is also surrounded by scenic hills and offers a tranquil atmosphere.
Located approximately 130 kilometers from Belum Caves, Ahobilam is a significant pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites. It is believed to be the place where Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, appeared to protect his devotee Prahlada. The Ahobilam Temple complex consists of nine shrines, each dedicated to a different form of Lord Narasimha.
Situated around 240 kilometers from Belum Caves, Srisailam is a renowned pilgrimage center and hill town. It is home to the ancient Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is located on the banks of the Krishna River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Nallamala Hills.
Kurnool, the district headquarters, offers various attractions for visitors. Some notable places to visit in Kurnool include the Konda Reddy Fort, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Oravakallu Rock Garden, and the historic ruins of Alampur. The city also has vibrant markets and local cuisine to explore.
These are some of the notable places to visit near Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh.