Nestled in the state of Andhra Pradesh, the town of Cuddapah (Kadapa) offers a mix of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. My recent holiday to this relatively lesser-known destination provided an experience that was both relaxing and enriching. Here’s a detailed account of my journey from Mumbai to Cuddapah, with insights into the food, stay, transport, attractions, and shopping experiences.
1. Journey from Mumbai to Cuddapah
The journey began with a flight from Mumbai to Bengaluru, as there are no direct flights to Cuddapah. From Bengaluru, I took a connecting flight to Kadapa Airport, which is just 8 km from the town center. For those who prefer road travel, there are also trains from Mumbai to Cuddapah via Renigunta Junction, which takes around 20-24 hours depending on the train schedule.
Traveling by air was smooth and convenient, with flights from Mumbai taking approximately 2 hours to Bengaluru and an additional hour to reach Cuddapah. I booked a cab from the airport to my hotel, a short and pleasant ride.
2. Accommodation in Cuddapah
For my stay, I chose a mid-range hotel, Haritha Hotel run by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department. Located centrally, it offered easy access to the town’s major attractions. The rooms were clean and spacious, with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a well-maintained restaurant.
The hotel staff was welcoming, and the hospitality exceeded expectations. Given the affordable rates (ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per night depending on the room type), it was a great choice for both comfort and value. For those seeking more luxurious options, there are a few boutique hotels like Kadapa Club and Hotel Blue Diamond that offer upscale amenities.
3. Food in Cuddapah: A Gastronomic Delight
Cuddapah offers a unique food experience, blending Andhra cuisine with local specialties. For lunch, I indulged in a traditional Andhra thali that featured spicy pappu (dal), tangy pulusu (tamarind-based curry), and gongura chutney, which is made from sorrel leaves. The thali was a perfect balance of flavors and spice, served with heaps of rice, papadam, and curd to tone down the heat.
Street food enthusiasts will enjoy mirchi bajji (fried chili fritters), punugulu (savory fritters), and Idli-Sambar, which are popular snacks found at local stalls. For dinner, I tried the local non-vegetarian delicacies such as Chepala Pulusu (fish curry) and Natu Kodi Pulusu (country chicken curry), which are cooked with a special blend of spices unique to Andhra.
Vegetarian travelers need not worry, as Cuddapah has plenty of options for them too. The food is extremely affordable, with a full meal costing anywhere between ₹100 to ₹300 per person at local eateries.
4. Transport Within Cuddapah
Cuddapah is a small town, so getting around is easy and affordable. Auto-rickshaws and cabs are the most common modes of transport. I found auto-rickshaws to be the best option for short distances, while cabs were ideal for exploring attractions outside the main town.
For longer trips, such as to Gandikota and Belum Caves, I hired a private car. Renting a car for the day typically costs around ₹2,000 to ₹3,000, depending on the distance covered and the time spent.
5. Top Attractions in and Around Cuddapah
Despite its small size, Cuddapah is rich in cultural and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers.
- Gandikota: Known as the “Grand Canyon of India,” Gandikota is just a 90-minute drive from Cuddapah. The gorge, carved by the Pennar River, is a stunning natural formation surrounded by ancient ruins. The Gandikota Fort offers breathtaking views of the canyon, making it a must-visit spot for photography and nature lovers.
- Belum Caves: Located about 100 km from Cuddapah, the Belum Caves are the longest caves in India open to the public. The limestone formations and long underground passageways offer a fascinating underground adventure. A visit to the meditation hall inside the caves is a serene experience.
- Sri Venkateswara National Park: For wildlife enthusiasts, this park is home to several species of flora and fauna. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a nature walk and possibly spot animals like deer, bears, and various bird species.
- Devuni Kadapa Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara is believed to be the gateway to the famous Tirumala Temple. Devotees often visit this temple before making their pilgrimage to Tirupati. The temple’s rich history and spiritual significance make it a serene place to spend a few hours.
- Ameen Peer Dargah: Also known as Pedda Dargah, this Sufi shrine is a symbol of communal harmony. It attracts devotees from all religions and is a peaceful, spiritual retreat in the heart of the town.
6. Shopping in Cuddapah
Cuddapah may not be a shopping hub like larger cities, but it offers unique, locally made products that are worth exploring. I visited the local market to purchase Kadapa stone products, as the town is famous for its stone, which is used in construction and handicrafts. These items, particularly stone mortar-pestles and decor items, make for excellent souvenirs.
Additionally, the weekly market is a good place to shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Prices are reasonable, and the local vendors are friendly, offering a glimpse into the town’s traditional craftsmanship.
7. Cultural Experiences and Festivals
During my stay, I was fortunate enough to witness a local festival celebrating Ugadi (the Telugu New Year). The festivities included music, dance performances, and traditional rituals, giving me a taste of the region’s rich culture.
Religious festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Vinayaka Chaturthi are also celebrated with great enthusiasm, with temples adorned with flowers, lights, and devotional music echoing throughout the town.
8. Conclusion: A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
Cuddapah may not be on the typical tourist map, but it offers an authentic experience for those seeking a quieter, more culturally immersive holiday. The town’s combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and delicious cuisine made for an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Cuddapah is a destination worth considering.
With easy connectivity from Mumbai, affordable stay options, and an array of attractions to explore, Cuddapah is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by curious travelers.
