Places to Visit

Nettikanti Veera Anjaneya Swamy Temple, Kasapuram

The Nettikanti Veera Anjaneya Swamy Temple in Kasapuram is the most important spiritual destination in the Guntakal area. The temple features a towering statue of Lord Hanuman (Anjaneya), visible from a distance as you approach the village. "Nettikanti" refers to the forehead (nettu) — the deity is depicted with a distinctive tilakam on the forehead.

Pilgrims visit from across Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and beyond. The temple sees especially large crowds during Hanuman Jayanti and on Saturdays, which are considered auspicious for Hanuman worship.

Practical Tips

• Timings: Typically 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Confirm locally as timings vary by season.
• Distance: The temple is about 4 km from Guntakal town center and 11 km from the railway station.
• Getting there: Auto-rickshaws are available from Guntakal Junction (~‍200–300). Local buses also run to Kasapuram.
• Dress code: Modest clothing recommended. Remove footwear before entering the temple premises.
• Photography: Check with temple authorities. Usually allowed in outer areas.

Gooty Fort

Gooty Fort (also known as Gooty Konda or Ravadurg) is a massive hill fort perched atop a granite hill near the town of Gooty. The fort dates back to the Vijayanagara period and was later strengthened by the Marathas and the British. Its strategic location offers commanding views of the surrounding plains.

The fort features multiple gateways, ancient cisterns for water storage, remnants of palaces, and a temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari at the summit. The climb, while moderately strenuous, rewards visitors with stunning 360-degree views of the Rayalaseema landscape.

Key Highlights

• Architecture: Blend of Vijayanagara, Maratha, and later British modifications
• Views: Panoramic vistas from the top — especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset
• History: Associated with the Vijayanagara Empire, the Adil Shahi dynasty, and Tipu Sultan
• Getting there: Take a bus or taxi from Guntakal to Gooty town (about 30 km). Auto-rickshaws are available from Gooty to the fort base.
• Difficulty: Moderate. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water (no shops on the fort).

Jambu Dweepa, Konakondla

Jambu Dweepa at Konakondla is an important Jain pilgrimage center, featuring a complex of ancient Jain temples and carved pillars. The name "Jambu Dweepa" refers to the central continent in Jain cosmology, and the site has been a center for Jain worship and learning for centuries.

The temple complex features exquisite stone carvings, including detailed depictions of Jain tirthankaras. The peaceful, rural setting adds to the contemplative atmosphere of the site.

Practical Tips

• Location: Konakondla village, about 16 km from Guntakal on the way to Gooty
• Transport: Best reached by private vehicle or taxi. Public buses to Konakondla are limited.
• Best time: October to March. The site is open throughout the year.
• Combination trip: Can be combined with Gooty Fort as a full-day excursion from Guntakal.

Guntakal Junction (GTL) — A Heritage Experience

For railway enthusiasts, Guntakal Junction itself is an attraction. As one of the busiest junctions in South India, it's a fascinating place to watch trains. The station features a classic colonial-era building, multiple platforms spread across a wide yard, and a constant flow of trains heading in all four directions.

Highlights for railfans:

• Observe trains being marshaled and re-routed in the large railway yard
• See locomotives being changed — common at this junction where electric and diesel traction meet
• Photograph trains from the foot overbridge (FO) for a panoramic view
• Visit the station's heritage building with its vintage architectural elements
• Sample the famous railway station tea and snacks from platform vendors