KadiriA historic spiritual hub in the Rayalaseema region, renowned for the ancient Narasimha Swamy Temple and its significant trade in groundnuts and jasmine.
Updated November 2026
Local businesses in Kadiri
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Kadiri in one minute
Kadiri — live weather, population, hidden places and cost of living, auto-updated.
Kadiri is a prominent religious and administrative center located in the newly formed Sri Sathya Sai district of Andhra Pradesh. The city is famous for the Sri Kadiri Laxmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, where the deity is said to be swayambhu — self-manifested — from the roots of a Khadra tree. This sacred site draws thousands of pilgrims annually, defining the cultural and economic rhythm of the local community.
The geography of Kadiri is characterized by its proximity to the Maddileru River and a landscape rich in mineral deposits and agriculture. As a major trading post, it handles significant volumes of groundnuts, sunflower seeds, and silk cocoons. The town serves as a vital transit point on the railway line connecting Dharmavaram to Pakala, fostering trade between the Rayalaseema hinterland and the southern markets of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Fast facts
| Status | Municipality |
| District | Sri Sathya Sai |
| Division | Kadiri |
| District population (2011) | ≈1840043— pending |
| City population (2011) | 89429 |
| Urban agglomeration | 89429 |
| Density | ≈1800 per sq km |
| Languages | Telugu, Urdu |
| Main stations | Kadiri (KRY) |
| Nearest airport | Bengaluru (KIA) |
| River | Maddileru |
| Sub-divisions | Kadiri, Tanakal, Talupula |
| District literacy | 63.5% |
| Famous for | Narasimha Swamy Temple, Jasmine |
City map
Demographics CENSUS 2011
Last official census — 2021 census deferred, estimates update on release.
89,429 residents
per 1,000 males
municipal area (2011)
≈9,837 children (est.)
Hidden & heritage places in Kadiri
Kadiri beyond the postcards — quiet places and lanes most guides skip.
Sri Kadiri Laxmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
A 14th-century architectural marvel featuring intricate gopurams and a unique idol that reportedly sweats after the daily ritual bath — abhishekam. It is one of the most significant Narasimha kshetras in South India.
Directions ↗Bathepalli Waterfalls
A seasonal waterfall located amidst the rugged terrain of the Eastern Ghats. It provides a scenic trekking spot for locals during the monsoon months when the Maddileru river tributaries swell.
Directions ↗Thimmamma Marrimanu
The world—s largest banyan tree by canopy area, spreading over five acres. It is a botanical wonder protected by the forest department and holds a Guinness World Record.
Directions ↗Yogi Vemana Samadhi
The final resting place of the celebrated Telugu philosopher and poet Vemana. The site includes a peaceful ashram and a research center dedicated to his moral poems and teachings.
Directions ↗Katarupalli Fort Ruins
Remnants of a historical fortification that once guarded the local chieftains. While largely in ruins, the stone walls offer a panoramic view of the surrounding groundnut farms and rocky outcrops.
Directions ↗C.B. Project Dam
An irrigation project on the Maddileru river that serves as a vital water source for the arid farm belts. The reservoir area is popular for quiet evening visits.
Directions ↗Weekend getaways near Kadiri
Approximate road distances from Kadiri.
Cost of living in Kadiri
Indicative monthly estimates for a single person — verify locally before deciding.
| 1 BHK rent (city) | ₹3,000 – 6,000 / mo |
| 2 BHK rent (city) | ₹6,000 – 11,000 / mo |
| Meal at a local eatery | ₹70 – 150 |
| Groceries (single, month) | ₹3,500 – 5,500 |
| Utilities (basic) | ₹1,200 – 2,500 |
| Monthly total (est.) | ₹10,000 – 17,000 |
Estimates only · tier-3 market · updated with market data over time
What runs Kadiri's economy
What actually runs Kadiri.
Groundnut Processing
Kadiri is a primary hub for groundnut cultivation and decortication. Numerous mills process the crop for oil extraction and export to neighboring states.
Primary ↗Jasmine Cultivation
The region is famous for a specific variety of jasmine known for its strong fragrance. Flowers are transported daily to Bengaluru and Chennai markets.
Farming ↗Silk Cocoon Trade
A significant center for rearing silkworms, with a government-supported market for the auction of high-quality silk cocoons used in the weaving industry.
Textiles ↗Barytes and Granite
The surrounding hills contain deposits of granite and barytes. Local units handle the quarrying and initial processing of these minerals for construction.
Mining ↗Temple Economy
Small-scale enterprises focusing on religious artifacts, brassware, and traditional textiles thrive due to the constant influx of pilgrims to the Narasimha temple.
Services ↗Oil Extraction
Sunflower and groundnut oil extraction units operate throughout the town, supplying refined and cold-pressed oils to the Rayalaseema region.
Manufacturing ↗Famous food & restaurants in Kadiri
Where locals actually eat — local counters, classics and street institutions.
Temple Road Mess
Standard Andhra meals served on banana leaves featuring spicy chutneys, pappu, and local ragi sangati. Popular with pilgrims for its hygiene and speed.
Directions ↗Rayalaseema Spice
Known for the authentic Kadiri style chicken biryani and mutton kurma, reflecting the local culinary influence of the Rayalaseema region.
Directions ↗Breakfast Stalls near Bus Stand
Busy stalls serving hot idli, vada, and the local specialty — uggani with bajji — a staple breakfast made of puffed rice.
Directions ↗Standard Bakery and Sweets
Famous for traditional sweets like khova and local biscuits, catering to travelers and residents for over two decades.
Directions ↗Verified from local guides · Sep 2026 · hours change — call ahead
Markets & shopping
Kadiri Market Yard
One of the busiest yards in the district for groundnut, pulses, and silk cocoon auctions, operating primarily in the early morning hours.
Directions ↗Bazaar Street
The primary retail corridor for gold jewelry, clothing, and household goods, serving the entire Kadiri revenue division.
Directions ↗Festival & fair calendar
Kadiri Brahmotsavam
A massive 15-day chariot festival at the Narasimha Swamy temple drawing lakhs of devotees from across South India.
Sankranti
The harvest festival celebrated with traditional cattle races and colorful muggu patterns in the agricultural neighborhoods.
Dussehra
Marked by special alankarams at the local temples and cultural performances in the town squares.
Kartika Masam
A month of spiritual significance featuring mass lighting of lamps and special rituals at the nearby hills and shrines.
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FAQ
What is Kadiri most famous for?
Kadiri is primarily famous for the Sri Laxmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and the Thimmamma Marrimanu banyan tree, which is recognized as one of the largest in the world.
How can I reach Kadiri by train?
Kadiri has its own railway station (KRY) located on the Dharmavaram—Pakala branch line, with regular trains connecting it to Tirupati, Hyderabad, and Vijayawada.
What are the local food specialties?
The local cuisine features spicy Rayalaseema flavors, with Ragi Sangati (millet balls) and Uggani (spiced puffed rice) being the most popular traditional dishes.
Is Kadiri suitable for a day trip?
Yes, Kadiri is an ideal day trip from Anantapur or Puttaparthi to visit the historic temple and the giant banyan tree at Gutibayalu.