Articles by alphabetic order
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
 Ā Ī Ñ Ś Ū Ö Ō
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0


Difference between revisions of "Belum Caves"

From Tibetan Buddhist Encyclopedia
Jump to navigation Jump to search
(Created page with "'''Belum Caves''' is the second largest cave in Indian subcontinent and the longest caves in plains of Indian Subcontinent, known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations....")
 
Line 1: Line 1:
'''Belum Caves''' is the second largest cave in Indian subcontinent and the longest caves in plains of Indian Subcontinent, known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations. Belum Caves have long passages, spacious chambers, fresh water galleries and siphons. It is a natural underground cave formed by the constant flow of underground water. The caves reach its deepest point (150 feet from entrance level) at the point known as Pataalaganga. Belum Caves derives its name from "Bilum" Sanskrit word for caves. In Telugu language, it is called Belum Guhalu. Belum Caves has a length of 3229 metres, making it the second largest natural caves in Indian Subcontinent.
+
'''[[Belum Caves]]''' is the second largest {{Wiki|cave}} in [[Indian]] subcontinent and the longest [[caves]] in plains of [[Indian]] Subcontinent, known for its stalactite and stalagmite [[formations]]. [[Belum Caves]] have long passages, spacious chambers, fresh [[water]] galleries and siphons. It is a natural underground {{Wiki|cave}} formed by the [[constant]] flow of underground [[water]]. The [[caves]] reach its deepest point (150 feet from entrance level) at the point known as Pataalaganga. [[Belum Caves]] derives its [[name]] from "Bilum" [[Sanskrit]] [[word]] for [[caves]]. In {{Wiki|Telugu}} [[language]], it is called Belum Guhalu. [[Belum Caves]] has a length of 3229 metres, making it the second largest natural [[caves]] in [[Indian]] Subcontinent.
  
Originally discovered in 1884 by a British surveyor Robert Bruce Foote, later in 1982-84, a team of German speleologists headed by H Daniel Gebauer conducted a detailed exploration of the caves. Thereafter in 1988, the state government declared them protected, and Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) developed the caves as a tourist attraction in February 2002. Today, 3.5 km of the cave has been successfully explored, though only 1.5 km is open to tourists. There are 16 different pathways, including the main entrance and there are deposits of Quartz in the caves. The caves are formed in Black Limestone.
+
Originally discovered in 1884 by a [[British]] surveyor Robert Bruce Foote, later in 1982-84, a team of [[German]] speleologists headed by H Daniel Gebauer conducted a detailed exploration of the [[caves]]. Thereafter in 1988, the [[state]] government declared them protected, and [[Andhra Pradesh]] Tourism [[Development]] Corporation (APTDC) developed the [[caves]] as a tourist [[attraction]] in February 2002. Today, 3.5 km of the {{Wiki|cave}} has been successfully explored, though only 1.5 km is open to tourists. There are 16 different pathways, [[including]] the main entrance and there are deposits of Quartz in the [[caves]]. The [[caves]] are formed in Black Limestone.
 
==The site==
 
==The site==
 
[[File:Cave_entrance.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Cave_entrance.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
'''Belum Caves''' is located at Belum Village in Kolimigundla Mandal of Kurnool District in State of Andhra Pradesh, India. 15.102346°N 78.111541°E Kolimigundla is situated 3 km from Belum Caves.
+
'''[[Belum Caves]]''' is located at Belum Village in Kolimigundla Mandal of Kurnool District in [[State]] of [[Andhra Pradesh]], [[India]]. 15.102346°N 78.111541°E Kolimigundla is situated 3 km from [[Belum Caves]].
 
==Discovery==
 
==Discovery==
  
Even though the Belum Caves were known to the locals, the first records of Caves were mentioned in expedition report of Robert Bruce Foote, in 1884. Thereafter, Belum Caves remained unnoticed for almost a century till a German team headed by Herbert Daniel Gebauer conducted detailed exploration of the caves in 1982 and 1983. The German expedition was assisted by the locals Mr B. Chalapathi Reddy, Mr Ramaswami Reddy, Mr Boyu Madduleti, Mr K. Padmanabhaiah, Mr K. Chinnaiah and Mr A. Sunkanna.
+
Even though the [[Belum Caves]] were known to the locals, the first records of [[Caves]] were mentioned in expedition report of Robert Bruce Foote, in 1884. Thereafter, [[Belum Caves]] remained unnoticed for almost a century till a [[German]] team headed by Herbert Daniel Gebauer conducted detailed exploration of the [[caves]] in 1982 and 1983. The [[German]] expedition was assisted by the locals Mr B. Chalapathi Reddy, Mr Ramaswami Reddy, Mr Boyu Madduleti, Mr K. Padmanabhaiah, Mr K. Chinnaiah and Mr A. Sunkanna.
::*4500 BC Remnants of vessels of that age were found in the caves.
+
::*4500 BC Remnants of vessels of that age were found in the [[caves]].
::*???? occupied by Jains and Buddhists.
+
::*???? occupied by [[Jains]] and [[Buddhists]].
::*1884 existence of the caves recorded by Mr Robert Bruce Foote.
+
::*1884 [[existence]] of the [[caves]] recorded by Mr Robert Bruce Foote.
::*1982 explored by the German Herbert Daniel Gebauer.
+
::*1982 explored by the [[German]] Herbert Daniel Gebauer.
::*1983 explored by the German Herbert Daniel Gebauer.
+
::*1983 explored by the [[German]] Herbert Daniel Gebauer.
::*1988 declared protected by the Andhra Pradesh Government.
+
::*1988 declared protected by the [[Andhra Pradesh]] Government.
::*1999 development of the cave by Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation started.
+
::*1999 [[development]] of the {{Wiki|cave}} by [[Andhra Pradesh]] Tourism [[Development]] Corporation started.
::*FEB-2002 cave opened to the public.
+
::*FEB-2002 {{Wiki|cave}} opened to the public.
 
::*JUL-2002 Musical chamber discovered.
 
::*JUL-2002 Musical chamber discovered.
  
 
==Historical importance==
 
==Historical importance==
  
Belum Caves are geologically and historically important caves. There are indications that Jains and Buddhists monks were occupying these caves centuries ago. Many Buddhists relics were found inside the caves. These relics are now housed in Museum at Ananthapur.
+
[[Belum Caves]] are geologically and historically important [[caves]]. There are indications that [[Jains]] and [[Buddhists]] [[monks]] were occupying these [[caves]] centuries ago. Many [[Buddhists]] [[relics]] were found inside the [[caves]]. These [[relics]] are now housed in Museum at Ananthapur.
  
Archaeological survey of India (ASI) also found remnants of vessels, etc. of pre-Buddhist era and has dated the remnants of vessels found in the caves to 4500 BC.
+
{{Wiki|Archaeological}} survey of [[India]] (ASI) also found remnants of vessels, etc. of pre-Buddhist {{Wiki|era}} and has dated the remnants of vessels found in the [[caves]] to 4500 BC.
==Development of Caves==
+
==[[Development]] of [[Caves]]==
The caves was being used to dump wastes of nearby places till 1988. The local people of nearby areas, notably Retired Additional Superintendent of Police M. Narayana Reddy, residents of Belum Village like B. Chalapathi Reddy,B.Maheswara Reddy and others followed up Government of Andhra Pradesh to develop the caves as tourist attraction. Finally their almost two decade long efforts resulted in when Government of Andhra Pradesh declaring entire area to be protected zone. Finally in the year 1999, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation took over the task of beautifying and maintaining the caves. APTDC sanctioned Rs.75,00,000.00 to develop the caves.
+
The [[caves]] was being used to dump wastes of nearby places till 1988. The local [[people]] of nearby areas, notably Retired Additional Superintendent of Police M. [[Narayana]] Reddy, residents of Belum Village like B. Chalapathi Reddy,B.Maheswara Reddy and others followed up Government of [[Andhra Pradesh]] to develop the [[caves]] as tourist [[attraction]]. Finally their almost two decade long efforts resulted in when Government of [[Andhra Pradesh]] declaring entire area to be protected zone. Finally in the year 1999, [[Andhra Pradesh]] Tourism [[Development]] Corporation took over the task of beautifying and maintaining the [[caves]]. APTDC sanctioned Rs.75,00,000.00 to develop the [[caves]].
  
The caves are now managed by Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has developed the pathways in around 2 km of the length of the caves, provided soft illumination and has created fresh-air-shafts in the caves. At many places inside the cave, APTDC has installed bridges, staircase, etc. for easy movement inside tha cave. It has also created a canteen, washroom and toilet facilities near the entry point.
+
The [[caves]] are now managed by [[Andhra Pradesh]] Tourism [[Development]] Corporation (APTDC). [[Andhra Pradesh]] Tourism [[Development]] Corporation (APTDC) has developed the pathways in around 2 km of the length of the [[caves]], provided soft [[illumination]] and has created fresh-air-shafts in the [[caves]]. At many places inside the {{Wiki|cave}}, APTDC has installed [[bridges]], staircase, etc. for easy {{Wiki|movement}} inside tha {{Wiki|cave}}. It has also created a canteen, washroom and toilet facilities near the entry point.
  
There is a giant Buddha Statue near a hillock near the Belum Caves. The area of cave known as "Meditation hall" was used by Buddhist Monks. The relics of Buddhist period were found here. These relics are now housed in museum at Ananthapur.
+
There is a giant [[Buddha]] Statue near a hillock near the [[Belum Caves]]. The area of {{Wiki|cave}} known as "[[Meditation]] hall" was used by [[Buddhist]] [[Monks]]. The [[relics]] of [[Buddhist]] period were found here. These [[relics]] are now housed in museum at Ananthapur.
==Main Sections of Belum Caves==
+
==Main [[Sections]] of [[Belum Caves]]==
 
::*pillidwaram — pillidwaram means cats gate. It is a natural arch of stalactites formed in the shape of a lion’s head;
 
::*pillidwaram — pillidwaram means cats gate. It is a natural arch of stalactites formed in the shape of a lion’s head;
  
::*Kotilingalu Chamber - This section contains stalactite formations which are akin to shiva lingams. This section has thousands of such stalactite ::giving it a surrealistic look. It has one huge pillar formed due to stalactite and stalagmite joining together.
+
::*Kotilingalu Chamber - This section contains stalactite [[formations]] which are akin to [[shiva]] [[lingams]]. This section has thousands of such stalactite ::giving it a surrealistic look. It has one huge pillar formed due to stalactite and stalagmite joining together.
  
::*Patalaganga - It is a small perennial stream which disappears into the depths of the earth. This stream flows from the southeast to northwest. It ::disappears and is believed to be heading towards a well at the Belum village, located 2 km away from the caves.
+
::*Patalaganga - It is a small [[perennial]] {{Wiki|stream}} which disappears into the depths of the [[earth]]. This {{Wiki|stream}} flows from the [[southeast]] to [[northwest]]. It ::disappears and is believed to be heading towards a well at the Belum village, located 2 km away from the [[caves]].
  
::*Saptasvarala Guha or Musical Chamber - Saptasvarala Guha means chamber of seven notes. The stalactite formations in this chamber reproduce musical ::sounds when these are struck with a wooden stick or knuckles. This section was opened to the public in 2006.
+
::*Saptasvarala Guha or Musical Chamber - Saptasvarala Guha means chamber of seven notes. The stalactite [[formations]] in this chamber reproduce musical ::{{Wiki|sounds}} when these are struck with a wooden stick or knuckles. This section was opened to the public in 2006.
  
::*Dhyan Mandir or Meditation Hall - This section is near to the entrance. An interesting formation at Meditation hall looks like a bed with pillow to ::recline. The local legend has it that in ancient times many sages used to live here. This section was used by Buddhist Monks. Many relics of ::Buddhist period were found here which are now housed in museum at Ananthapur.
+
::*Dhyan Mandir or [[Meditation]] Hall - This section is near to the entrance. An [[interesting]] formation at [[Meditation]] hall looks like a bed with pillow to ::recline. The local legend has it that in [[ancient]] times many [[sages]] used to live here. This section was used by [[Buddhist]] [[Monks]]. Many [[relics]] of ::[[Buddhist]] period were found here which are now housed in museum at Ananthapur.
  
::*Thousand Hoods - This section has amazing stalactite formations shaped like hood of Cobra. The stalactite formations on the ceiling looks as if ::thousands of cobras have opened their hoods.
+
::*Thousand Hoods - This section has amazing stalactite [[formations]] shaped like hood of {{Wiki|Cobra}}. The stalactite [[formations]] on the ceiling looks as if ::thousands of cobras have opened their hoods.
  
::*Banyan Tree Hall - This section has a huge pillar with stalactites hanging from the ceiling. This gives a look of Banyan Tree with its aerial roots ::when seen from below. The locals call it "Voodalamari" since it looks like a Banyan Tree with its aerial roots hanging from the branches.
+
::*[[Banyan Tree]] Hall - This section has a huge pillar with stalactites hanging from the ceiling. This gives a look of [[Banyan Tree]] with its aerial [[roots]] ::when seen from below. The locals call it "Voodalamari" since it looks like a [[Banyan Tree]] with its aerial [[roots]] hanging from the branches.
  
::*Mandapam - This is a huge area inside the cave with magnificent stalactite structures on the sides giving it a look of a hall with pillars.
+
::*Mandapam - This is a huge area inside the {{Wiki|cave}} with magnificent stalactite structures on the sides giving it a look of a hall with pillars.
  
 
[[File:Belumcave1.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Belumcave1.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
==Entrance to Caves==
+
==Entrance to [[Caves]]==
The tourists are charged an amount of Rs.50.00 for entrance. Foreign Tourists are charged Rs.300.00 per person for entrance. APTDC has installed electronic gates at entrance. After passing through the gates, one can reach the caves by a metal staircase installed by APTDC.
+
The tourists are charged an amount of Rs.50.00 for entrance. Foreign Tourists are charged Rs.300.00 per [[person]] for entrance. APTDC has installed electronic gates at entrance. After passing through the gates, one can reach the [[caves]] by a metal staircase installed by APTDC.
  
The entrance pit was originally smaller than what one sees today. It has been broadened as part of development of the caves to install the staircase to allow visitors to descend and ascend easily.
+
The entrance pit was originally smaller than what one sees today. It has been broadened as part of [[development]] of the [[caves]] to install the staircase to allow visitors to descend and ascend easily.
  
The entrance is like that of a Pit Cave. From the ground you can only see two pits side by side and third pit a little further away. After descending around 20 meters by a the stairs from the entrance, the caves become horizontal. The first section one enters is called Gebauer Hall named after Speleologist Mr H. Daniel Gebauer, who had explored and mapped the caves in 1982-1983. The path to Gebauer Hall leads below the second opening, which lies next to the main entrance.
+
The entrance is like that of a Pit {{Wiki|Cave}}. From the ground you can only see two pits side by side and third pit a little further away. After descending around 20 meters by a the stairs from the entrance, the [[caves]] become horizontal. The first section one enters is called Gebauer Hall named after Speleologist Mr H. Daniel Gebauer, who had explored and mapped the [[caves]] in 1982-1983. The [[path]] to Gebauer Hall leads below the second opening, which lies next to the main entrance.
==Awards to APTDC for Belum Caves==
+
==Awards to APTDC for [[Belum Caves]]==
  
::*In, 2003, APTDC won the prestigious "National Tourism Awards" instituted by Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, for its initiatives in developing and promoting Belum Caves.
+
::*In, 2003, APTDC won the prestigious "National Tourism Awards" instituted by Ministry of Tourism and {{Wiki|Culture}}, {{Wiki|Government of India}}, for its initiatives in developing and promoting [[Belum Caves]].
::*Belum caves was also adjudged the best destination award 2002 at the Tourism and Travel Fair held in Bangalore in 2002.
+
::*[[Belum caves]] was also adjudged the best destination award 2002 at the Tourism and Travel Fair held in [[Bangalore]] in 2002.
  
==Accommodation near Belum Caves==
+
==Accommodation near [[Belum Caves]]==
APTDC runs Punnami Hotel in vicinity of Belum Caves. The only accommodation type offered is a 32 beds dormitory. The charges for dormitory accommodation is Rs.40.00 per person. This hotel is planned to be upgraded in future. APTDC also runs a restaurant and a small shop at the entrance to Belum Caves.
+
APTDC runs Punnami Hotel in vicinity of [[Belum Caves]]. The only accommodation type [[offered]] is a 32 beds dormitory. The charges for dormitory accommodation is Rs.40.00 per [[person]]. This hotel is planned to be upgraded in {{Wiki|future}}. APTDC also runs a restaurant and a small shop at the entrance to [[Belum Caves]].
  
Nearest towns are Tadipatri (30 km) and Banganpalli (20 km) where one can find hotels to stay. There are no other place nearby where one can find a restaurant or any sort of eating joint. It is advisable to carry bottled drinking water when visiting the caves since it get very hot and humid at certain sections.
+
Nearest towns are Tadipatri (30 km) and Banganpalli (20 km) where one can find hotels to stay. There are no other place nearby where one can find a restaurant or any sort of eating joint. It is advisable to carry bottled drinking [[water]] when visiting the [[caves]] since it get very [[hot]] and humid at certain [[sections]].
  
Kurnool (106 km) and Ananthapur (85 km) are other places to stay and these places have good hotels. Both these places are well connected by road and rail.This cave can also be reached from Nandiyal railway station falling in Guntur-Bangalore section of South Central railway,which is about 60 km away.
+
Kurnool (106 km) and Ananthapur (85 km) are other places to stay and these places have good hotels. Both these places are well connected by road and rail.This {{Wiki|cave}} can also be reached from Nandiyal railway station falling in Guntur-Bangalore section of [[South]] Central railway,which is about 60 km away.
 
==Distance from major cities/towns==
 
==Distance from major cities/towns==
  
::*320 km from Bangalore
+
::*320 km from [[Bangalore]]
::*320 km from Hyderabad
+
::*320 km from {{Wiki|Hyderabad}}
::*420 km from Chennai
+
::*420 km from [[Chennai]]
 
::*106 km from Kurnool
 
::*106 km from Kurnool
::*85 km from Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh
+
::*85 km from Anantapur, [[Andhra Pradesh]]
 
::*165 km from Puttaparthi
 
::*165 km from Puttaparthi
 
::*68 km from Proddatur
 
::*68 km from Proddatur

Revision as of 23:50, 9 February 2016

Belum Caves is the second largest cave in Indian subcontinent and the longest caves in plains of Indian Subcontinent, known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations. Belum Caves have long passages, spacious chambers, fresh water galleries and siphons. It is a natural underground cave formed by the constant flow of underground water. The caves reach its deepest point (150 feet from entrance level) at the point known as Pataalaganga. Belum Caves derives its name from "Bilum" Sanskrit word for caves. In Telugu language, it is called Belum Guhalu. Belum Caves has a length of 3229 metres, making it the second largest natural caves in Indian Subcontinent.

Originally discovered in 1884 by a British surveyor Robert Bruce Foote, later in 1982-84, a team of German speleologists headed by H Daniel Gebauer conducted a detailed exploration of the caves. Thereafter in 1988, the state government declared them protected, and Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) developed the caves as a tourist attraction in February 2002. Today, 3.5 km of the cave has been successfully explored, though only 1.5 km is open to tourists. There are 16 different pathways, including the main entrance and there are deposits of Quartz in the caves. The caves are formed in Black Limestone.

The site

Cave entrance.jpg

Belum Caves is located at Belum Village in Kolimigundla Mandal of Kurnool District in State of Andhra Pradesh, India. 15.102346°N 78.111541°E Kolimigundla is situated 3 km from Belum Caves.

Discovery

Even though the Belum Caves were known to the locals, the first records of Caves were mentioned in expedition report of Robert Bruce Foote, in 1884. Thereafter, Belum Caves remained unnoticed for almost a century till a German team headed by Herbert Daniel Gebauer conducted detailed exploration of the caves in 1982 and 1983. The German expedition was assisted by the locals Mr B. Chalapathi Reddy, Mr Ramaswami Reddy, Mr Boyu Madduleti, Mr K. Padmanabhaiah, Mr K. Chinnaiah and Mr A. Sunkanna.

Historical importance

Belum Caves are geologically and historically important caves. There are indications that Jains and Buddhists monks were occupying these caves centuries ago. Many Buddhists relics were found inside the caves. These relics are now housed in Museum at Ananthapur.

Archaeological survey of India (ASI) also found remnants of vessels, etc. of pre-Buddhist era and has dated the remnants of vessels found in the caves to 4500 BC.

Development of Caves

The caves was being used to dump wastes of nearby places till 1988. The local people of nearby areas, notably Retired Additional Superintendent of Police M. Narayana Reddy, residents of Belum Village like B. Chalapathi Reddy,B.Maheswara Reddy and others followed up Government of Andhra Pradesh to develop the caves as tourist attraction. Finally their almost two decade long efforts resulted in when Government of Andhra Pradesh declaring entire area to be protected zone. Finally in the year 1999, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation took over the task of beautifying and maintaining the caves. APTDC sanctioned Rs.75,00,000.00 to develop the caves.

The caves are now managed by Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has developed the pathways in around 2 km of the length of the caves, provided soft illumination and has created fresh-air-shafts in the caves. At many places inside the cave, APTDC has installed bridges, staircase, etc. for easy movement inside tha cave. It has also created a canteen, washroom and toilet facilities near the entry point.

There is a giant Buddha Statue near a hillock near the Belum Caves. The area of cave known as "Meditation hall" was used by Buddhist Monks. The relics of Buddhist period were found here. These relics are now housed in museum at Ananthapur.

Main Sections of Belum Caves

  • pillidwaram — pillidwaram means cats gate. It is a natural arch of stalactites formed in the shape of a lion’s head;
  • Kotilingalu Chamber - This section contains stalactite formations which are akin to shiva lingams. This section has thousands of such stalactite ::giving it a surrealistic look. It has one huge pillar formed due to stalactite and stalagmite joining together.
  • Patalaganga - It is a small perennial stream which disappears into the depths of the earth. This stream flows from the southeast to northwest. It ::disappears and is believed to be heading towards a well at the Belum village, located 2 km away from the caves.
  • Saptasvarala Guha or Musical Chamber - Saptasvarala Guha means chamber of seven notes. The stalactite formations in this chamber reproduce musical ::sounds when these are struck with a wooden stick or knuckles. This section was opened to the public in 2006.
  • Dhyan Mandir or Meditation Hall - This section is near to the entrance. An interesting formation at Meditation hall looks like a bed with pillow to ::recline. The local legend has it that in ancient times many sages used to live here. This section was used by Buddhist Monks. Many relics of ::Buddhist period were found here which are now housed in museum at Ananthapur.
  • Thousand Hoods - This section has amazing stalactite formations shaped like hood of Cobra. The stalactite formations on the ceiling looks as if ::thousands of cobras have opened their hoods.
  • Banyan Tree Hall - This section has a huge pillar with stalactites hanging from the ceiling. This gives a look of Banyan Tree with its aerial roots ::when seen from below. The locals call it "Voodalamari" since it looks like a Banyan Tree with its aerial roots hanging from the branches.
  • Mandapam - This is a huge area inside the cave with magnificent stalactite structures on the sides giving it a look of a hall with pillars.
Belumcave1.jpg

Entrance to Caves

The tourists are charged an amount of Rs.50.00 for entrance. Foreign Tourists are charged Rs.300.00 per person for entrance. APTDC has installed electronic gates at entrance. After passing through the gates, one can reach the caves by a metal staircase installed by APTDC.

The entrance pit was originally smaller than what one sees today. It has been broadened as part of development of the caves to install the staircase to allow visitors to descend and ascend easily.

The entrance is like that of a Pit Cave. From the ground you can only see two pits side by side and third pit a little further away. After descending around 20 meters by a the stairs from the entrance, the caves become horizontal. The first section one enters is called Gebauer Hall named after Speleologist Mr H. Daniel Gebauer, who had explored and mapped the caves in 1982-1983. The path to Gebauer Hall leads below the second opening, which lies next to the main entrance.

Awards to APTDC for Belum Caves

  • In, 2003, APTDC won the prestigious "National Tourism Awards" instituted by Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, for its initiatives in developing and promoting Belum Caves.
  • Belum caves was also adjudged the best destination award 2002 at the Tourism and Travel Fair held in Bangalore in 2002.

Accommodation near Belum Caves

APTDC runs Punnami Hotel in vicinity of Belum Caves. The only accommodation type offered is a 32 beds dormitory. The charges for dormitory accommodation is Rs.40.00 per person. This hotel is planned to be upgraded in future. APTDC also runs a restaurant and a small shop at the entrance to Belum Caves.

Nearest towns are Tadipatri (30 km) and Banganpalli (20 km) where one can find hotels to stay. There are no other place nearby where one can find a restaurant or any sort of eating joint. It is advisable to carry bottled drinking water when visiting the caves since it get very hot and humid at certain sections.

Kurnool (106 km) and Ananthapur (85 km) are other places to stay and these places have good hotels. Both these places are well connected by road and rail.This cave can also be reached from Nandiyal railway station falling in Guntur-Bangalore section of South Central railway,which is about 60 km away.

Distance from major cities/towns

  • 320 km from Bangalore
  • 320 km from Hyderabad
  • 420 km from Chennai
  • 106 km from Kurnool
  • 85 km from Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh
  • 165 km from Puttaparthi
  • 68 km from Proddatur
  • 30 km from Tadpatri
  • 60 km from Nandyal
  • 25 km from Banganapalle
  • 34 km from koilkuntla
  • 44 km from Jammalamadugu

It is very near to Owk, and adjacent to Belum Village,

Source

Wikipedia:Belum Caves