Belum Caves

Belum Caves

Located in the Nandyal district of Andhra Pradesh, Belum Caves are the second-longest cave system open to the public in the Indian subcontinent (stretching over 3.2 kilometers). Formed millions of years ago by the constant flow of an underground river, these caves are a massive geological and historical marvel.
The History of Belum Caves
The word “Belum” is derived from the Sanskrit word Bilam, which means “cave.”
1. Ancient Buddhist Heritage
Long before they were a modern tourist attraction, Belum Caves were used by Buddhist and Jain monks as meditation halls dating back thousands of years. Inside the caves, archaeologists have unearthed ancient relics, including earthen vessels and remnants dating back to the 4th and 5th century BCE. The presence of these artifacts confirms the caves were an integral part of the regional monastic life.
2. Scientific Rediscovery
Though locals knew about the cavernous sinkholes for generations, the caves faded from official records until 1884, when British geologist Robert Bruce Foote conducted the first scientific survey of the site.
3. Exploration and Protection
The caves lay largely neglected for another century until 1982, when a German speleologist (cave expert) named Herbert Daniel Gebauer led a comprehensive expedition alongside local enthusiasts to map out the entire subterranean network. Recognizing its historical value, the Government of Andhra Pradesh declared the caves protected in 1988, and the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) officially opened them to the public in 2002.

FAQs

What is the structure and deepest point of the caves?

The cave system is filled with massive passages, spacious chambers, and intricate fresh-water galleries. The deepest accessible section is known as Patalaganga, located roughly 150 feet (46 meters) below the surface level, where a perennial underground stream flows.

What are the key historical and natural attractions inside?

Meditation Hall: A specific section used by ancient Buddhist monks where dynamic artifacts were discovered. Kotilingalu Chamber: An area featuring breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites that look like thousands of Shiva Lingams grouped together. Simhadwaram: A natural limestone formation resembling the majestic archway of a lion’s mouth. Saptasvarala Guha (Musical Chamber): A chamber where the limestone stalactites produce distinct metallic, musical notes when gently tapped with a wooden stick.

Is it difficult to breathe or walk inside Belum Caves?

Because the caves are deep underground, the temperature inside stays consistently warmer than the outside air (usually around 32°C to 35°C), and humidity is exceptionally high. To make exploration comfortable, the APTDC has installed continuous electronic aeration blowers to pump in fresh air along the pathways. The main paths are well-lit and paved, but some sections require bending or squeezing through narrow spaces.

What is the best time to visit?

The ideal window to visit is between October and February, when the weather in Andhra Pradesh is cooler and more pleasant for traveling. Traveler Note: A massive, 40-foot-tall Buddha statue stands on a hillock near the cave entrance to honor the ancient monks who once found sanctuary in these deep underground caverns.

What is the best route to reach Belum Caves from Hyderabad and Bengaluru, including nearby railway stations?

The route details and closest transit connections to reach Belum Caves from both major tech hubs depend heavily on your chosen travel mode. Route from Hyderabad The drive from Hyderabad to the caves spans approximately 326 kilometers and takes just over 6 hours. The Route: Take NH 44 southbound toward Kurnool. After crossing Kurnool, continue past Dhone, then exit the highway onto the local roads toward Banaganapalle and Kolimigundla to arrive at the caves. Route from Bengaluru The distance from Bengaluru is around 305 kilometers, which typically translates to a 5-hour and 44-minute drive. The Route: Head north out of the city on NH 44 passing through Anantapur. Shortly after Anantapur, turn off toward Tadipatri and proceed along the local routes leading directly into Kolimigundla. Nearby Railway Stations While the cave system is nestled deep in a limestone-rich rural belt, there are a few options for rail travel depending on how close you want to get before catching local transport: Tadipatri Railway Station: Located roughly 30 kilometers away, this is the closest functional railhead with frequent regional connections. From here, local buses or private cabs are easily accessible. Kurnool City: Located further north (approx. 106 km away), Kurnool City is a major railway junction with superb connectivity to both Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Many travelers take a train to Kurnool and hire a private vehicle for a day trip to the caves.

Price From : ₹400/-

Address

Near Avaloormadam temple, thathampally po, pin code 688013 , Alleppey, Kerala, India

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