Exploring The Interiors Of Chittoor!

Located in the southernmost part of Andhra Pradesh, Chittoor has earned its place in history. The region has been ruled by several dynasties, including the Dravidian's, and they have left many indelible marks here. In 1911, the district was formed by dividing Cuddapah, SPS Nellore District, and North Arcot, and Chittoor District celebrated its centenary in the year 2011.

This world renowned temple in Chittoor district is a must visit. Located on the seventh peak of the Tirumala Hill, Venkatachala, this temple houses the most breathtaking idol of Lord Venkateshwara that will leave you spellbound. According to the Hindu scriptures, Vishnu, driven by the love for his devotees, incarnated as Venkateswara and appeared for the salvation and upliftment of humanity in Kaliyuga. This is considered the supreme form of Vishnu in this age. Hence, the Venkateswara Swamy Temple is also called Kaliyuga Vaikuntam.

While all the temples in and around Tirupati are dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, this holy place is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated in Tirupati, on the way to Tirumala, it is one of the most illustrious South Indian Shiva temples and also features a majestic waterfall. The temple derives its name from Kapila Maha Muni, who received the Shiva-Parvati Divya Darshan due to his devotion and sacrifice.

Once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, Chandragiri is a small village, popular with tourists because of its beautiful fort. The main fort, called the Raja Mahal, features a museum with antique sculptures, swords, and household items which belonged to the Vijayanagara empire and their beloved king, Sri Krishnadevaraya. Tourists visit the fort for its historical importance. Take a stroll in the lavish gardens and don’t miss the light and sound show that happens in the evenings.

Situated around 38 kilometres from Tirupati in the town of Sri Kalahasti is this famous Shiva temple. ‘Sri’ means spider and ‘Kala’ means snake and ‘hasti’ stands for elephant. These three sacrificed their lives for Lord Shiva (or Lord Maheshwara) and were granted moksha; the temple is named after them. The inner sanctum of the temple was constructed around the fifth century and the outer temple was built in the 12th century. Devotees come here to perform the Rahu Ketu Pooja to get rid of the faults in their planetary orientation.

Silathoranam is a natural rock arch in Tirumala. It is 3-metre-high and 8-metrelong and is believed to be about 1.5 billion years old. A geological wonder, there are only three such structures in the world. ‘Sila’ means rock and ‘thoranam’ means a garland strung over a threshold, connecting two vertical columns or an ‘arch’ as in this case. According to the myth, Lord Venkateswara, the presiding deity of Tirumala, appeared through this arch and made this place his abode.

Silathoranam is a geological wonder. There are only three such natural features in the world, the other two being in the U.S and the U.K.

TALAKONA

Falling from a height of 270 feet, it is the highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. Surrounded by dense sandalwood and wild flowers, this place is quite unique. It does get crowded by noon but come here in the morning and you can see the magnificent sight of waters descending from the skies above and pooling at your feet undisturbed. It is said that the waters of Talakona are enriched with herbs and they can treat skin conditions.

PARASURAMESHWARA TEMPLE

In the small sleepy village of Gudimallam, the Parasurameshwara Temple has the earliest shivalingam in India, dating back to third century. The main temple consists a shrine in the lower level. The entrance to the shrine is fascinating with a walled enclosure; while the ornamental pillared porch makes the architecture truly unparalleled.

SRIKALAHASTI

Kalamkari, a style that involves hand painting a fabric using a pen, is prevalent in Andhra Pradesh and the centre for all the work is Srikalahasti (38 kilometres from Tirupati). Artists draw motifs and fill their designs with natural dyes. At the handloom shop set up by the side of APTDC Hotel, you can find pretty table cloths, folders, wall hangings, sarees, and bags. An artist spends long hours to create these beautiful products, so expensive as they may seem, they are definitely worth the price.

MADHAVAMALA

Madhavmala is a small village near Srikalahasti, popular for its wooden crafts. The handicrafts have intricate work depicting Hindu mythological stories Pradesh and you will find many artists selling flower pots, vessels, and decorative pieces. Around 100 families from the village are engaged in this craft and they are keeping alive this heritage of the state. When here, buy earthy lamps, musical instruments, animal figurines, and other items. These make for great souvenirs and on the other side, buyers support the livelihood of these artists who put their life and blood into each piece. Angallu is another place in the Chittoor district is also famous for terracotta.

Palamaneru is the hub of terracotta in Andhra Pradesh and you will find many artists selling flower pots, vessels, and decorative pieces. Around 100 families from the village are engaged in this craft and they are keeping alive this heritage of the state. When here, buy earthy lamps, musical instruments, animal figurines, and other items. These make or great souvenirs and on the other side, buyers support the livelihood of these artists who put their life and blood into each piece. Angallu is another place in the Chittoor district is also famous for terracotta.

LITTLE BOUTIQUE GEMS

The properties in Tirupati that offer the best locations to explore in the region.

This luxury hotel is conveniently located at the foot of Tirumala Hills, mere 33 minutes from the Lord Venkateswara Temple. For the first time in India, a hotel has themed its concept around the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and the result is soothing. Its 121 rooms and suites offer stunning views of the hills or the hotel’s water bodies. The property also features two speciality restaurants, a bar, a fully-equipped health club, a swimming pool, and a spa. For business travellers, it has a business centre to host trainings, workshops, meetings, and events.

Marasa Sarovar Premier Hotel has themed its concept around the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and the result is soothing.

The 138-room hotel is just a few minutes away from the city centre. It has two speciality restaurants, a bar, a swimming pool, a gym and spa, and a business centre. A great advantage is the travel desk that can assist you in planning your excursions. Also, the hotel also has a banquet that can accommodate up to 1,500 people.

Escape to the hills of Tirupati and stay at the Haritha Hill Resort run by the state government. This quaint property features rooms with idyllic views of the surrounding hills and forests. You can choose from a range of bungalows, cottages and the suites, and visit nearby tourist attractions.

A boutique business hotel, Minerva Grand has comfortable rooms equipped with flat screen TVs and coffee/tea makers. For your daily dose of coffee, head to the hotel’s café, Minerva Coffeehouse. You can have your meals at Blue Box, a multi-cuisine restaurant. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, a business centre, and a fitness centre.