Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. 

Nandyal, located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India, is a historic city known for its religious significance, cultural heritage, and agricultural economy. It serves as the headquarters of the Nandyal revenue division and is one of the major urban centers in the Rayalaseema region. The city is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Nallamala Hills” due to its proximity to the Nallamala Forest Range.

Key Features of Nandyal:

1. Geography and Location:

• Nandyal is situated approximately 350 km south of Hyderabad and 60 km east of Kurnool.
• The city lies at the foothills of the Nallamala Hills, part of the Eastern Ghats, and is surrounded by scenic landscapes and natural beauty.
• It is well-connected by road and rail networks, making it a key transportation hub in the region.

2. Historical Significance:

• Nandyal has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was an important center during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire.
• The city is mentioned in ancient texts and inscriptions, highlighting its cultural and religious significance.
• Nandyal played a role in the Indian independence movement, with several freedom fighters hailing from the region.

3. Religious Significance:

• Nandyal is known for its religious sites and temples, attracting pilgrims from across the country.
• Mahanandi Temple: Located about 15 km from Nandyal, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the Nava Nandis (nine sacred Nandi temples). It is famous for its natural spring and architectural beauty.
• Sri Yaganti Uma Maheshwara Temple: Located about 30 km from Nandyal, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its unique idol of Shiva and Parvati in a single stone.
• Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple (Srisailam): Located about 80 km from Nandyal, this is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a major pilgrimage site.

4. Economy:

• Nandyal is primarily an agricultural city, with crops like cotton, groundnut, sunflower, and pulses being the mainstay of the local economy.
• The city is also known for its granite industry, with several granite quarries and processing units in the region.
• Small-scale industries, including textile manufacturing and handicrafts, also contribute to the local economy.

5. Transportation:

• Nandyal is well-connected by road and rail. The National Highway 40 (NH-40) passes through the city, linking it to major cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
• The Nandyal Railway Station is a major stop on the Guntur-Hubli rail route, providing connectivity to cities across India.
• The nearest airport is Kurnool Airport (about 60 km away) and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (about 350 km away).

6. Education and Healthcare:

• Nandyal has several educational institutions, including Government Degree College, Nandyal Medical College, and Krishnadevaraya Engineering College.
• The city has well-equipped healthcare facilities, including Government General Hospital and several private clinics.

7. Tourism and Attractions:

• Mahanandi Temple: A famous pilgrimage site known for its natural spring and architectural beauty.
• Sri Yaganti Uma Maheshwara Temple: A unique temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvati.
• Nallamala Forest Range: A scenic forest area offering trekking and wildlife exploration opportunities.
• Belum Caves: Located about 60 km from Nandyal, these are the second-largest cave system in India, known for their stalactite and stalagmite formations.
• Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary: Located about 80 km from Nandyal, this sanctuary is home to the endangered Great Indian Bustard.

8. Culture and Festivals:

• Nandyal is a multicultural city with a mix of Telugu, Urdu, and Kannada-speaking communities.
• Major festivals celebrated include Maha Shivaratri, Ugadi, Diwali, and Eid.
• The city is known for its traditional music, dance, and art forms, such as Kuchipudi and Burra Katha.

9. Food and Cuisine:

• Nandyal offers a variety of Andhra cuisine, known for its spicy and flavorful dishes.
• Popular local delicacies include pulihora (tamarind rice), gongura pachadi, biryani, and pappu charu.
• The city is also known for its sweets, such as arisa and pootarekulu.

10. Future Developments:

Nandyal is a city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an important destination in Andhra Pradesh. Its religious significance, agricultural economy, and scenic landscapes contribute to its prominence in the region.