Tourist places in Chirala

Chirala is a seaside jewel tucked away on India's east coast and home to an enchanted universe.

This article invites you to explore the stunning tourist sites virtually while you read about the places and learn why people love to travel to Chirala from near and far.

Chirala offers a particular blend of activities that are ideal for all levels of adventurer thanks to its stunning beaches, rich cultural past, and serene natural beauty. Whether you appreciate history, nature, or the sun, Chirala has something special in store for you.

So that you may start making plans for your next fantastic holiday, join us as we expose the hidden treasures and must-see landmarks in this small beach town.

Places To See Around Chirala

• Shri Veera Raghavaswamy Temple
• Papi Hills
• Oravakallu Rock Garden
• Amareswara temple
• Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary
• Chirala Markets
• Kotappakonda
• Ramapuram Beach
• Vodarevu Beach
• Suryalanka Beach
• Muntha Vari Center

Here is the list of top tourist places in Chirala

1. Shri Veera Raghavaswamy Temple

In Tamilnadu's Thiruvallur District, near Chennai City, lies the Hindu temple known as Veera Raghava Swamy Temple, which is devoted to Lord Vishnu. Also known as Thiruevvul, this temple.

A granite wall encircles the temple, which contains a five-tiered Rajagopuram (gateway tower). Each shrine is positioned within the complex, and the temple tank is to the west of the temple. For visiting this temple, Amavasya days are said to be lucky.

The temple was constructed in the latter half of the eighth century AD by the Pallavas, and Thanjavur Nayaks afterwards supported it. Salihotra was a guru and a fervent follower of Bhagwan Vishnu, and the Markandeya Purana claims that he lived in seclusion here.

Salihotra was asked to serve Bhagwan Vishnu food, which the sage did in order to test the devotee's dedication. Bhagwan Vishnu then made a disguised appearance as a guest.

The visitor asked more food from the sage since they were getting hungry. The sage gave the remaining food, which he saved for himself. When the visitor requested for a place to rest, the wise man immediately offered his hermitage. The visitor disclosed his genuine identity and praised the sage upon entering the hermitage.

Another myth holds that Bhagwan Vishnu visited this location to wed Devi Lakshmi, who was born Vasumathi, the daughter of Dilipa, the ruler of Dharmasenapura. Devi Lakshmi afterwards took the name Lakshmi.

Three inscriptions from the Chola era may be seen in the temple. Inscriptions from the reign of Kulothunga Chola I (1070-1122 AD) at the temple attest to Tiruvenkatadeva's donation of 1,000 kulis of land to the temple.

Veera Raghava Sadagoppa Jiyar, the twelfth seer of Ahobila Mutt, donated 130 pons (pon is the amount of gold coin in Tamil) of gold to the temple between 1630 and 1675, according to inscriptions on the eastern wall of the Vahanamandap.

2. Papi Hills

A magnificent valley on the Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh is formed by a group of three hills known as the "Papi Hills."

The closest location to stay is the settlement of Kolluru, which has a limited number of bamboo huts for residents. Papikondalu is another name for it.

Since Kolluru doesn't have a road connecting it, getting there requires another picturesque experience in and of itself. By bus or rail, you may go to Rajamundry or Bhadrachalam, two extremely well-known holy sites in Andhra.

Boats depart from Rajamundhry or Bhadrachalam, respectively, and go for 6 to 8 hours upstream or downstream. Through the package offered by a few travel companies, like AP Tourism, one must prebook the boat and the bungalows. A boat of your own is obviously required if you want to sail alone to the location.

The Papikondalu mountain range is in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, and it flows beside the Godavari (Western Godavari). Regarding scenic beauty, Papikondalu is a pure feast for the eyes. The width of the mighty Godavari narrows as the hills approach the visitor closer and closer.

It was originally called "Papidi" because, in this opinion, it resembled the middle section of a woman's hair. Kondalu- Paidi, which is translated as "the middle section of a woman's hair," is Telugu. Later, it was referred to as Papikondalu in the native tongue. A breath-taking visual experience is created by the river's constriction, its curves, and the Papi Hills.

Due to the quaintness and abundance of wildlife in the area surrounding the mountains, its beauty is sometimes contrasted with that of Kashmir. Waterfalls in Munivaatnam are another feature of the ranges.

3. Oravakallu Rock Garden

It is a 1,000 acre sculpture landscape that includes an old basement and volcanic rock formations in between water basins.

The Oravakal Rock Garden is known as such. Around 20 kilometres from chirala in Andhra Pradesh, South India, it lies near the Orvakal hamlet along the NH-18 highway.

Visits to Kurnool include the Oravakallu Rock Garden (sometimes spelt Oravakal Rock Garden). There are igneous rock formations in this 1000-acre park that is located on the outskirts of Orvakallu.

The Silica and Quartz rock formations known as Oravakal Rocks in Kurnool may have been created by the wind and a nearby body of water, or they might have been the result of a long-gone volcano.

On the NH 18, which connects the districts of Hyderabad and Chittoor and is located approximately 20 kilometres south of Kurnool district, are these boulders, which cover more than 1000 acres of land.

Orvakal rock formations are becoming increasingly well-known lately since they resemble a tiny Grand Canyon. The Orvakal Rock Park is situated on the route that connects Hyderabad and Bangalore, 250 km from Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh.

Probably due to volcanic eruptions or a nearby body of water, the majority of the rocks in this area are Silica and Quartz formations. Due to the modest size of the rocks and the opportunity for first-hand experience, it is a fantastic location for adventure seekers and novice hikers.

This region is being developed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department, which is building guest homes and other tourist amenities for the passing travellers.

Oravakallu Rock Garden Is Known For: -

1. Around a pool, the volcanic, oval rock formations are housed in the Oravakallu Rock Garden.
2. It is also possible to view the peculiar silica and quartz rock forms in the igneous rocks.
3. A picnic would be a great idea in this garden.
4. Climbing is a possibility in the rocky garden on the opposite side.
5. It is also categorized as an animal garden since there are many structures of iron-made creatures placed up there. The structures of the bear, lion, horse, rabbit, elephant, and so on may be seen.

4. Amareswara Temple

Lord Shiva, the "Destroyer of the Universe," has a temple named Amareswara in the city of Amaravathi. A 15-foot-tall marble Shiv Ling is enclosed within the sacred area.

Five lingams known as Pranaveswara, Agasteswara, Kosaleswara, Someswara, and Parthiveswara are said to contain the physical form of Lord Shiva.

The Amareswara Temple, which was built in the Dravidian architectural style, has a rich history of creation stories. The primary holiday here that is widely observed is "Maha Shivaratri" of "Magha Bahula Dasami." The spiritual atmosphere that permeates this sacred location permeates every visitor's heart, mind, and body.

The Amareswara Temple is located at a spot where the river changes its course, which is an intriguing detail about it.

The Pancharama Kshetram, which includes the Amareshwara Temple, is also known as Amararama. Amaravati Town in Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, is home to the Amareshwara Temple.

On the southern bank of the Krishna River is where you'll find this temple. According to popular belief, Lord Indra built the Shivalinga at this location.

Shivalinga in this location is so lofty that archakas must mount a platform and carry out daily rites. This 15-foot-tall Shiva temple has a red strain on the top of the Linga.

According to legend, the Lingam was constantly expanding in size until one of the archaka pounded a nail at the top to stop the expansion. The Shivalinga began to leak blood as soon as the nail was inserted. Red color strain is still visible now on the Linga's top.

Three prakarams round the Sanctum of the temple. The Mahisasura Mardini, Veerabadra, Omkareshwara, Guru Dattatray, and Agasteshwara Swamy temples are all located in the first Prakaram. The Lord Krishna statue is located under the tree in the second prakaram, which also houses the temples of Vinayaka, Khalabhairava, Anjaneya, Nagendra Swamy, and Kumara Swamy.

The temples of Kasi Vishwanath, Malli Karjuna, Pushpadanteshwara Swamy, and Kalahasthishwara are located in the third prakaram. In the second prakaram, there lies the temple of Lord Kala Bhairava in Kshetra Palaka.

5. Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary

In Uppalapadu, an Indian town close to Guntur City, you may find the Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary. Between September and February, the Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary attracts migratory birds from a variety of nations, including Serbia and Australia, including painted storks, spot-billed pelicans, and other species.

At the refuge, you may see migratory birds from over 40 different species, including painted storks, spot-billed pelicans, and white ibis.

Overview

Pelicans are among the main species present here, and you can see hundreds of these lovely birds soaring and chirping all throughout the sanctuary as a result. This results in a magnificent atmosphere that is calm and melodious. In addition to all of these species, you can see black-headed ibis, common teal, pintail ducks, and jungle crows.

The area is home to several fish species due to the existence of a few ponds. A full package for bird watchers and photographers is Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary.

In the past, there were around 12,000 birds that used to roost in these tanks, but nowadays, just about 7000 birds do so throughout the year. However, certain measures, such planting fake trees, raising neighborhood awareness, providing the ponds with adequate water supply, etc., have been made. Possibly more than 1500 pelicans are present.

Along with the 6 pintail ducks mentioned above, a few cormorants, 5 red crested pochards (rhodonesa rufina), common coots, common teal, black-headed ibises, and 2 stilts were also seen.

The forest authorities ought to plant more Prosopis velutina trees in and around this wetland instead of installing wire mesh fake trees. The pelican's leftover rotting fish droppings were where the ibises, painted stork, and jungle crow were discovered scavenging.

Both fresh and saltwater fish were the major food sources for the chicks. Among the fish that had fallen from the nests were those that were fresh and weighed around 0.8 kg, including LabeoRohita (Carp) and other marine creatures.

Since the pelicans weren't seen fishing from adjacent ponds, they must have been transported from the nearest river and sea, which are around 20 to 30 km distant from the site.

Despite not doing so in the first several years, pelicans started using the enormous wire mesh trees that the Forest department had installed in 2009 to build their nests. 2009 marked the culmination of this pelicanary's ten-year run. Currently, some pelicans have chosen to utilize a different pond at Ramchandrapalem, which is around 4 km away in the direction of Guntur.

6. Chirala Markets

In Chirala, there is a growing demand for handloom products. It is renowned for its peculiar method of cloth weaving and is one of India's most prominent handloom centres. It is recognized that they specialize in making traditional cotton and khadi sarees.

Due of this, the Chirala markets provide high-quality textile items here at reduced pricing. Various varieties of bodywear, bedspreads, and curtains are all available, along with everything else.

These shops and handlooms are all over the market, to speak of places. All of them, though, are close by. Shri Balaji, Soundarya Silks, and Mahatma Gandhi Cloths are just a few of the renowned shops that are close to one another.

7. Kotappakonda

Kotappakonda Kotappakonda is a sacred hill that is revered by both residents and visitors alike. It is located in the Chirala district of Andhra Pradesh. A little over an hour's journey separates it from the cities of Narasaraopet and chirala, respectively, and both cities are accessible by car.

The Thirunallu Festival, a large yearly celebration, is held at the Kotappakonda Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva. At this ceremony, several lakh devotees take part.

Trikoteswara Swamy is the name of the hill, which was given in honor of the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu. The great shrine in question is 1587 feet tall.

Kotappakonda Temple's history

In contrast to common belief, Prajapati Daksha's daughters did not wed Devas. Even though she did not have her father's approval, the younger daughter, Sati, chose to wed Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva and Daksha's son-in-law had a rocky relationship from the beginning. All the gods and goddesses were invited when Prajapati Daksha conducted a Yajna, however he left out his son-in-law Lord Shiva.

Even though she had previously been forbidden from doing so, Sati chose to visit her father's home after learning about the Yajna. She received a reprimand here, and she made the decision to set herself on fire. When Shiva learned of this, he became furious and sent Veerbhadra to put an end to the Yajna. Following the instructions, Veerbhadra put a stop to the Yajna and murdered Prajapati Daksha with the assistance of Kaali and other Gods. To find tranquilly, Lord Shiva undertook penance on himself at the peak that is now known as Maheshwara Sikhara.

After that, to ensure that Lord Shiva is back at the Kailash, where he belongs. On two additional peaks, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma performed penance. Lord Shiva granted the request.

Lord Shiva then used his Trishul to breach the mountain in order to create a lake so that Lord Vishnu may advise conducting Abhishekam. Lord Vishnu bathed in this river to make it into a sacred Tirtha. It is presently thought that absolving oneself of all sins by taking a bath in this holy water.

People are documented to have believed in yet another urban legend. Anandavalli used to do Abhishekam to the Shiva Linga on the hill, since she was a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. Anandavalli is said to have begged to Lord Shiva to move inside her house when it became impossible for her to travel great distances.

On one condition, Lord Shiva agreed to accept her requests; if she turned, Shiva would be there. Anandavalli became concerned as Shiva entered the Brahma Sikhara and turned. Shiva made a loud noise when he did so. Anandavalli also changed into a statue as Lord Shiva immediately materialised.

8. Ramapuram Beach

The incredibly beautiful and peaceful "Ramapuram Beach" is located near Chirala, also known as Ksheerapuri, in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

The sun rises and sets magnificently from this beach, which is well known for its spectacular vistas. The beach must be visited if you want to unwind in the midst of complete "serenity."

The favourable weather from October to March, they are the finest months to enjoy the panoramic splendour of this beach.

Things/Activities To Do

Everyone who wants to experience the serenity that the sun's rays offer as they rise and set must visit this beach. In addition, a well-known resort by the name of "Sea Breeze" is situated on this beach and is a popular holiday destination. You may benefit from the resort's amenities, which also include an amphitheatre and a gorgeous pool.

So if you want to unwind and heal, Chirala's beach is the perfect place to go.

9. Vodarevu Beach

Within 8 kilometres of Chirala, 28 kilometres of Suryalanka Beach, 103 kilometres of Vijayawada, and 72 kilometres of Guntur lies Vodarevu Beach, which is located on the shore of the Bay of Bengal.

Located in the Prakasam district, the Ramapuram Beach is 6 km distant.

Vodarevu Beach in the Vijayawada region is among the busiest and most well-known.

This beach is beautiful and is commonly frequented by tourists looking for a peaceful place to spend their weekends. Due to its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, the beach has a reputation for luring visitors who may find themselves losing track of time.

At the Vodarevu Beach, adventurers may enjoy exhilarating water sports like swimming and fishing. Having access to local boats makes sea boating simpler. There is also a lighthouse nearby that you may go see.

Vodarevu offers a variety of accommodations close to the beach. The Sip & Dip Cottages on the Vodarevu Beach Road offer all required amenities. Other great options in the area are the Jolley Home Resort and Ramapuram Beach Resort. A variety of hotel options are also available in Chirala town.

10. Suryalanka Beach

Suryalanka Beach is located in the Guntur District of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, 8 km from Bapatla. The ideal weekend getaway beach to spend time with loved ones is Bapatla Beach. The best weekend getaway beach for gatherings with friends and family is Bapatla Beach. The Suryalanka Beach is open from 9 am till 10 night.

The natural beauty of the beach is a major appeal for those seeking to relax and renew themselves. There is a large amount of coastline. The Bay of Bengal's waters are disregarded by Bapatla Beach. It is also known as Bapatla Beach and attracts a large number of people sometimes especially at the ends of the week.

Swimming and sunbathing are both quite safe along this coastline. The coast's primary vacation spot is dolphin-watching tours throughout the month of November.

Various Suryalanka Beach Attractions

Tourists seeking to unwind and refresh themselves are drawn in large numbers by Suryalanka beach's unmatched natural beauty. The Bay of Bengal's waters are pristine, and the beach is well-kept. Due to the beach's openness and size, visitors may swim and sunbathe without feeling crowded.

11. Muntha Vari Center

Bosenagar (Prakasam), Chirala, Ramakrishnapuram, and Santha Bazar are the locations of the Muntha vari Centre in Prakasam, Andhra Pradesh. In the Andhra Pradesh state's Prakasam district are the localities of Bosenagar (Prakasam), Chirala, Ramakrishnapuram, and Santha Bazar. Muntha vari Center's post office is located in Chirala, which has the zip code 523155.

When visiting Chirala, you really must sample the pink beverage with the cashew nuts in it.

Regarding its location, it may be found on the streets of the Munta Vari Centre neighbourhood in Kotla Bazar, Chirala. Go buy one for yourself if you spot a busy corner store where plenty of people are enjoying cool drinks from long white cups in the sweltering afternoons.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chirala is home to a remarkable variety of tourist sites that appeal to tourists looking for the ideal fusion of tranquilly, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.

Chirala offers a variety and satisfying experience for everyone who visits, from its immaculate beaches that extend as far as the eye can see to the historic temples that are housed behind their walls and contain centuries of history.

We hope that this overview of Chirala's tourist attractions has given you insightful information and the motivation to visit this undiscovered gem on your own adventure.

Pack your bags, soak in the calm, and allow Chirala's charm to leave an everlasting impression on your heart because here is a place where culture and nature come together to produce an unforgettable experience.