KurnoolThe former capital of Andhra State and a historic riverside hub known for the Konda Reddy Fort and proximity to the Srisailam shrine.
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Kurnool in one minute
Kurnool — live weather, population, hidden places and cost of living, auto-updated.
Kurnool serves as the administrative headquarters of its namesake district and holds significant historical weight as the capital of Andhra State from 1953 to 1956. Situated at the confluence of the Tungabhadra and Handri rivers, the city acts as a vital transit point between Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Its skyline is dominated by the Konda Reddy Buruju, a 12th-century fortification that remains the city — most iconic landmark and a symbol of local resistance.
The city is a major commercial center for the Rayalaseema region, driven by its strategic location on National Highway 44. Beyond its urban core, Kurnool provides access to the Nallamala Forest and several ancient rock art sites. The local culture is a blend of traditional Telugu heritage with influences from the Nawabs of Kurnool, reflected in its distinct architecture, cuisine, and the prominence of the Srisailam Devasthanam in regional spiritual life.
Fast facts
| Status | Municipal Corporation |
| District | Kurnool |
| Division | Kurnool |
| District population (2011) | ≈4,053,463 — pending |
| City population (2011) | 460,184 |
| Urban agglomeration | 484,327 |
| Density | ≈9,300 per sq km |
| Languages | Telugu, Urdu, English |
| Main stations | Kurnool City (KRNT) |
| Nearest airport | Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy (KJB) |
| River | Tungabhadra and Handri |
| Sub-divisions | Kurnool, Adoni, Dhone |
| District literacy | ≈59.97% — pending |
| Famous for | Konda Reddy Fort and Stone Polishing |
City map
Demographics CENSUS 2011
Last official census — 2021 census deferred, estimates update on release.
4,60,184 residents
per 1,000 males
municipal area (2011)
≈50,620 children (est.)
Hidden & heritage places in Kurnool
Kurnool beyond the postcards — quiet places and lanes most guides skip.
Konda Reddy Buruju
The remains of a 12th-century fort built by the Rajas of Vijayanagar, later strengthened by Konda Reddy. It features a distinct circular tower that served as a strategic watchtower and a prison during the colonial era.
Directions ↗Jagannatha Gattu Temple
A hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva featuring a massive Shivalingam. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and is a significant pilgrimage spot during the Maha Shivaratri festival.
Directions ↗Ketavaram Rock Paintings
Prehistoric rock art dating back to the Mesolithic era located in the nearby hills. These sites depict animals and human figures, providing evidence of early human habitation in the Tungabhadra river basin.
Directions ↗Orvakal Rock Garden
A natural landscape of igneous rock formations surrounded by water bodies. The site is a popular location for film shoots and features hiking trails through ancient silica and quartz formations.
Directions ↗Tungabhadra Pushkar Ghat
A series of steps leading to the river where devotees perform ritual baths. It is the focal point of the Pushkaram festival held once every twelve years to honor the Tungabhadra River.
Directions ↗Nawab of Kurnool Palace
The historical residence of the Nawabs, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architectural elements. While partially in ruins, the structure reflects the 18th-century administrative history of the region under the local Muslim rulers.
Directions ↗Weekend getaways near Kurnool
Approximate road distances from Kurnool.
Cost of living in Kurnool
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 Kurnool's economy
What actually runs Kurnool.
Manufacturing Hub
The district is rich in limestone deposits, supporting several large-scale cement plants including those owned by UltraTech and Panyam Cements, which supply the entire South Indian market.
Industrial ↗Pulp and Paper
Home to Sree Rayalaseema Paper Mills, which was historically one of the largest integrated paper units in the region, processing wood pulp into various grades of industrial paper.
Production ↗Chlor-Alkali Units
Sree Rayalaseema Alkalies and Allied Chemicals produces caustic soda and chlorine, serving as a primary supplier for soap, detergent, and textile industries across the state.
Chemical ↗Seed Processing
Kurnool is a major center for the processing of sunflower, cotton, and paddy seeds, with numerous cold storage units and distribution centers supporting the local farming economy.
Agro ↗Bethamcherla Stone
Famous for the quarrying and polishing of Bethamcherla limestone, which is used extensively for flooring and decorative cladding in residential and commercial construction.
Mining ↗Green Energy
The region hosts the Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park, one of the largest single-location solar power projects in the world, generating significant renewable energy for the national grid.
Energy ↗Famous food & restaurants in Kurnool
Where locals actually eat — local counters, classics and street institutions.
Deccan Biryani
Renowned for serving authentic Rayalaseema style biryani and spicy Natu Kodi Pulusu, catering to locals and travelers on the highway.
Directions ↗Sree Durga Bhavan
A popular spot for traditional Andhra thalis and breakfast items like Pesarattu and Idli, known for its consistent quality and local flavors.
Directions ↗Kurnool Uggani Stalls
Street-side vendors specializing in Uggani, a local puffed rice dish served with spicy Mirchi Bajji, which is a staple snack of the city.
Directions ↗The Mourya Inn
The premier dining destination in the city offering a range of North Indian, South Indian, and Tandoori specialties in a formal setting.
Directions ↗Verified from local guides · Sep 2026 · hours change — call ahead
Markets & shopping
Kurnool Cloth Market
A bustling wholesale and retail hub for traditional handloom sarees, cotton fabrics, and ready-made garments from across the Rayalaseema region.
Directions ↗C. Camp Market
The primary vegetable and fruit market of the city where farmers from surrounding villages bring fresh produce daily for local distribution.
Directions ↗Festival & fair calendar
Sankranti
A major harvest festival celebrated with traditional kite flying, Haridasu performances, and the preparation of Pongal in every household.
Ugadi
The Telugu New Year marked by the preparation of Ugadi Pachadi and the reading of the Panchangam to predict the coming year — fortunes.
Ganesh Chaturthi
A massive public celebration featuring large idols and processions that culminate in immersion ceremonies in the Tungabhadra River.
Dasara
Celebrated with the Navaratri festivities at local temples and the traditional burning of effigies to signify the victory of good over evil.
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FAQ
What is the best time to visit Kurnool?
The ideal time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
How do I reach the Srisailam temple from here?
Kurnool is a major gateway to Srisailam. You can take a direct state transport bus or hire a private taxi for the five-hour journey through the Nallamala Forest.
Is Kurnool safe for travelers?
Yes, Kurnool is a safe and hospitable city. It is a major transit point for pilgrims and business travelers, with well-connected public transport and a range of accommodation options.
What are the local food specialties?
You must try Uggani-Bajji, a unique puffed rice and chili fritter combination, along with spicy Rayalaseema meat curries and the famous local Gongura pickles.