Places To Visit in Nellore | Top Tourist Attractions and Activities

Experience the beauty of Nellore’s tourism with its top sights and attractions! From historic temples to pristine beaches, Nellore has something for every traveler. Discover the best tourist places in Nellore and plan your trip today!

About Nellore

Nellore is a city located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. It has a rich history and has been ruled by various dynasties such as the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Cholas, Pallavas, and the Vijayanagara Empire. During the British rule, it was a part of the Madras Presidency. The city was also a center for the French settlement during the 18th century.

Nellore is known for its handloom industry and agriculture, specifically for the production of paddy and aquaculture. The city has also been a hub for various cultural and religious festivals, with several temples and historic sites that attract tourists from all over the world. The city has also played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence, with several freedom fighters hailing from the region. Today, Nellore is a bustling city that blends its rich history with modern developments, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Architecture of Nellore

Nellore is a city that showcases a blend of various architectural styles. The city has a rich history of several dynasties and empires that have left their architectural imprints. The city’s architecture comprises of various styles, including the Dravidian, Chola, Vijayanagara, Pallava, and British. The most prominent architectural sites in the city include the ancient temples, mosques, and churches. The Ranganatha Temple, Sri Mulasthaneswara Temple, and Jonnavada Kamakshi Temple showcase the Dravidian and Vijayanagara architectural styles. The Bara Shaheed Dargah, Syed Ali Shabbar, and Shah Khaleelullah Dargah are examples of the city’s Islamic architecture. The St. John’s Church in Nellore showcases the British architectural style.

15 Places to Visit in Nellore

1. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and a popular pilgrimage site for devotees.
2. Pulicat Lake: A scenic lake on the border of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, known for its bird sanctuary and picturesque views.
3. Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary: A sanctuary for various species of migratory birds, including pelicans, painted storks, and spoonbills.
4. Udayagiri Fort: A historical fort built in the 17th century, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
5. Penchalakona: A sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Nallamala forest range, known for its temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha.
6. Mypadu Beach: A beautiful beach located on the Bay of Bengal, known for its golden sands and calm waters.
7. Sri Someswara Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
8. Ranganayaka Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its rich history and beautiful sculptures.
9. Nellapattu Sanctuary: A sanctuary for various species of migratory birds, including pelicans, painted storks, and spoonbills.
10. Jonnawada: A famous pilgrimage site located on the banks of the Pennar River, known for its temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.
11. Barah Shaheed Dargah: A popular shrine dedicated to 12 Muslim martyrs who fought against the British in the 19th century.
12. Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
13. Krishna Mandir: A temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
14. Raja Rajeswari Temple: A temple dedicated to Goddess Raja Rajeswari, known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
15. Sri Ranganayaka Swamy Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Nellore

Nellore experiences a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and moderate winters. The best time to visit Nellore is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. The temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 30°C. It is advisable to avoid visiting Nellore during the monsoon season from June to September, as heavy rainfall may cause inconvenience and disrupt travel plans.

How To Reach Nellore

Nellore is well-connected to major cities and towns of Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states by road, rail, and air.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Nellore is Tirupati Airport, which is around 126 km away from the city. Another option is the Chennai International Airport, which is around 175 km away.

By Train:

Nellore has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi.

By Road:

Nellore is well-connected by road to major cities in Andhra Pradesh and other neighboring states. National Highway 16 passes through the city, making it easily accessible by road.

Local Transport:

Local transport options in Nellore include buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. Buses are the most popular mode of transport for getting around the city, with frequent services available to all major locations. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also available, but they are slightly more expensive.

Accommodation Options in Nellore

Nellore has several accommodation options for visitors ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Some popular options are:

1. Hotel Yesh Park: Located in the city center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
2. Haritha Beach Resort: Situated near the beautiful Mypadu Beach, this resort offers rooms with sea views and is ideal for a relaxing vacation.
3. Hotel Vikram: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers clean rooms and good service at affordable prices.
4. Hotel Abhiram: A budget-friendly hotel located in the city center, it offers clean and basic rooms.
5. Minerva Grand: A luxurious hotel that offers spacious rooms, excellent service, and a range of facilities including a swimming pool, gym, and spa.
6. Uday Residency: This hotel is ideal for those looking for comfortable accommodation at an affordable price.
7. Hotel Leo Meridian: Located on the outskirts of the city, this hotel offers a peaceful stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
8. Hotel Athidhi Grand: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the city, it offers clean rooms and good service.
9. Hotel Mourya: Located near the city center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and good service at affordable prices.
10. OYO 7023 SSR Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located in the city center, it offers clean rooms and good service.

Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Nellore As per users Reviews and Ratings

Here are the briefs on top 10 hotels to stay in Nellore based on user reviews and ratings:

1. Hotel Minerva Grand: A luxurious hotel with spacious rooms, excellent amenities, and impeccable service. It has a rooftop restaurant that offers a panoramic view of the city.
2. Seasons Inn: A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable and clean rooms. It has an on-site restaurant and provides complimentary breakfast.
3. Hotel Abhinand Grand: A mid-range hotel that offers well-furnished rooms with modern amenities. It has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious food.
4. Hotel Yesh Park: A budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms. It has an on-site restaurant and provides complimentary breakfast.
5. OYO 7167 Near Rtc Bus Stand: A budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and well-furnished rooms. It is located near the bus stand, making it easily accessible.
6. Haritha Hotel Nellore: A government-run hotel that offers clean and spacious rooms. It has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious food.
7. Sri Vengamamba Grand: A mid-range hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms. It has an on-site restaurant and provides complimentary breakfast.
8. Hotel Athidhi Grand: A mid-range hotel that offers well-furnished rooms with modern amenities. It has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious food.
9. Hotel Pavani Residency: A budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms. It has an on-site restaurant and provides complimentary breakfast.
10. OYO 23018 Flagship Nellore Railway Station: A budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and well-furnished rooms. It is located near the railway station, making it easily accessible.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Nellore

Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Nellore:

1. Plan your trip during the winter season (November to February) to avoid the scorching heat.
2. Carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
3. Always carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated.
4. Wear comfortable footwear as you will have to walk a lot.
5. Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious places.
6. Be aware of pickpockets and avoid carrying too much cash.
7. Do not travel alone at night and always take a trusted mode of transportation.
8. Learn a few basic phrases in Telugu, the local language, to communicate with the locals.
9. Respect the local culture and traditions.
10. Carry a first-aid kit with basic medicines and a mosquito repellent as Nellore is known for its mosquito problems.

Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Nellore

Here are some common travel mistakes to avoid in Nellore:

1. Not carrying enough cash: Many small shops and local markets in Nellore may not accept credit/debit cards. So, it’s better to carry enough cash with you.
2. Not carrying sunscreen and hats: Nellore can get pretty hot, especially during summer. Make sure to carry sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the sun.
3. Not researching enough: Nellore has a rich history and culture. Do your research before you go so that you can appreciate the local sights and sounds.
4. Not respecting local customs: Nellore has a conservative culture. Make sure to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites.
5. Not bargaining: Bargaining is common in local markets in Nellore. Don’t be afraid to bargain to get a better deal.
6. Not planning your transport: Public transport in Nellore can be crowded and uncomfortable. If you’re planning to visit multiple sights, it’s better to hire a taxi or rent a car.
7. Not carrying insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a problem in Nellore, especially during the monsoon season. Make sure to carry insect repellent to protect yourself from insect bites.

Best Places for Shopping in Nellore

Nellore is famous for its handloom sarees and fabrics, as well as for its local handicrafts. Here are some of the best places to shop in Nellore:

1. Ranganatha Puram Market: This is the main market in Nellore and is famous for its fresh produce, clothing, and handicrafts.
2. Gandhi Nagar Market: This market is known for its textiles, particularly handloom sarees, and fabrics.
3. Sarvani Shopping Mall: This is a popular shopping destination that offers a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and household items.
4. VRC Center: This is another popular shopping mall in Nellore that offers a variety of products, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and food.
5. Nellore One Shopping Mall: This is a modern shopping mall that offers a range of products, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and food.
6. Kavali Market: This market is known for its fresh produce and handicrafts, particularly leather products and jewelry.
7. Vasireddy Venkatadri Institute of Technology (VVIT) Market: This market is located on the campus of the VVIT college and is known for its trendy clothing and accessories.
8. Jonnawada Market: This market is famous for its traditional handicrafts, particularly wooden toys and leather goods.
9. Nellore Central Plaza: This is a shopping complex that offers a range of products, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and food.
10. Pogathota Market: This market is known for its fresh produce and is a great place to buy locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Food To Eat in Nellore

Nellore is known for its delicious Andhra-style cuisine, with a variety of spicy and tangy dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Nellore:

1. Gongura Pachadi – A tangy chutney made with Gongura (sorrel) leaves, a staple dish in Andhra cuisine.
2. Chepala Pulusu – A spicy fish curry made with tamarind, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices.
3. Ulava Charu – A thick, tangy, and spicy soup made with horse gram and served with rice.
4. Royyala Vepudu – A popular Andhra-style shrimp fry made with a blend of spices and curry leaves.
5. Natu Kodi Pulao – A flavorful chicken pulao made with spices, ghee, and basmati rice.
6. Pootharekulu – A popular Andhra sweet made with rice starch, sugar, ghee, and cardamom.
7. Kajjikayalu – A traditional Andhra sweet stuffed with a mixture of coconut, jaggery, and cardamom.
8. Bobbatlu – A sweet flatbread filled with a sweet mixture of chana dal, jaggery, and cardamom.
9. Andhra-style Biriyani – Spicy and flavorful biriyani made with a blend of spices, meat, or vegetables, and long-grain basmati rice.
10. Pesarattu – A crispy dosa made with green gram dal, onions, and green chilies.

There are many restaurants and street food stalls in Nellore where you can try these delicious dishes.

Things You Can Buy as a Tourist

Nellore is known for its handloom products, particularly the famous Venkatagiri sarees, which are made from fine cotton and are known for their intricate designs and durability. Apart from this, other things that tourists can buy in Nellore include:

1. Paddy Straws: Made from dried paddy straws, these are used to make mats, bags, and other items.
2. Brassware: Nellore is known for its brassware, including lamps, candle stands, and decorative items.
3. Wooden Toys: Nellore is famous for its wooden toys, which are made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques.
4. Leather Products: Nellore is also known for its leather products, including shoes, belts, and bags.
5. Handmade Jewelry: Tourists can also buy handmade jewelry made by local artisans, including silver, beaded, and stone jewelry.
6. Spices: Nellore is a major producer of spices, particularly black pepper, which is known for its rich flavor and aroma.
7. Handicrafts: Visitors can also find a variety of handicrafts made by local artisans, including wall hangings, paintings, and sculptures.

Nightlife in Nellore

Nellore is a peaceful city with limited nightlife options. There are a few bars and pubs that serve alcohol, but they close early. However, you can still enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the beach and indulge in some delicious street food. The city is known for its seafood, so make sure to try some of the local delicacies like prawn fry, fish curry, and crab masala. Overall, Nellore is a great place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Activities and Things to Do in Nellore

Nellore is a city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, known for its rich culture, history, and architecture. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Nellore:

1. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple: This ancient temple is one of the most famous and revered in Nellore. It is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu.
2. Explore Penchalakona Temple: Located in the Nallamala Hills, this temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, a form of Lord Vishnu. It is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Relax at Mypadu Beach: This picturesque beach is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful sunsets. It is a great place to relax and unwind.
4. Learn about history at Bara Shaheed Dargah: This important historical site is a tomb dedicated to 12 martyrs who lost their lives fighting against the British. It is an important site for Muslims in Nellore.
5. Take a boat ride at Udayagiri Fort: This ancient fort dates back to the 14th century and is surrounded by beautiful lakes. Visitors can take a boat ride around the fort and enjoy the scenery.
6. Visit Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a variety of rare and endangered birds, including the spot-billed pelican, painted stork, and open-billed stork. It is a must-visit for bird lovers.
7. Explore the ruins of Vedayapalem Fort: This ancient fort is believed to have been built in the 14th century and is now in ruins. It is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers a glimpse into the past.
8. Take a dip in Swarnala Cheruvu: This beautiful lake is believed to have medicinal properties and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can take a dip in the lake and enjoy the scenery.
9. Shop for handicrafts at Nellore Bazaar: This bustling bazaar is a great place to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Visitors can find everything from handwoven textiles to brassware.
10. Enjoy a boat ride at Pulicat Lake: This beautiful lake is located on the border between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride and explore the surrounding islands and mangroves.

Lesser Known Facts About Nellore

Here are some lesser-known facts about Nellore:

1. Nellore was once known as Vikramasimhapuri, named after the king Vikrama Simha of the Pallava dynasty.
2. Nellore has a rich history dating back to the Mauryan period, and has been ruled by various dynasties including the Satavahanas, Cholas, Kakatiyas, and Vijayanagara Empire.
3. The town of Nellore was once an important trading center for rice and other agricultural products.
4. Nellore is home to one of the largest brackish water lagoons in India, the Pulicat Lake.
5. The famous Indian mathematician Ramanujan had visited Nellore in 1919 and stayed there for a brief period.
6. The Narasimha Konda Temple in Nellore is believed to be one of the oldest temples in South India, dating back to the 7th century.
7. Nellore is known for its unique cuisine, which combines the flavors of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
8. The Venkatagiri Fort, located near Nellore, was once a stronghold of the Venkatagiri Rajas, who ruled the region in the 18th and 19th centuries.
9. Nellore is also known for its handmade products, including the Nellore towels, which are made of pure cotton and are famous for their softness and absorbency.
10. The Sriharikota Island, located near Nellore, is home to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, which is one of the main launch sites for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

FAQ About Nellore

1. What is the best time to visit Nellore?

• The best time to visit Nellore is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant.

2. What are the popular tourist attractions in Nellore?

• Popular tourist attractions in Nellore include Penchalakona, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, Pulicat Lake, Udayagiri Fort, and Jonnawada.

3. What are some of the best places to stay in Nellore?

• Some of the best places to stay in Nellore include Hotel Yesh Park, Haritha Beach Resort, Hotel Raja, Seasons Inn, and OYO 71120 Hotel Sri Balaji Residency.

4. What are the popular dishes to try in Nellore?

• Some of the popular dishes to try in Nellore include chepala pulusu (fish curry), gongura mamsam (mutton with sorrel leaves), and kobbari karam (spicy coconut chutney).

5. What is the nearest airport to Nellore?

• The nearest airport to Nellore is Tirupati Airport, which is located around 125 km away.

6. What are some of the best things to do in Nellore?

• Some of the best things to do in Nellore include bird watching at Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, exploring the historical Udayagiri Fort, taking a boat ride on Pulicat Lake, and visiting the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.

7. What is the local language spoken in Nellore?

• The local language spoken in Nellore is Telugu.

8. What is the currency accepted in Nellore?

• The currency accepted in Nellore is the Indian rupee.

9. Is Nellore safe for solo travelers?

• Nellore is generally safe for solo travelers, but it is always recommended to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

10. Are there any adventure activities to do in Nellore?

• Yes, adventure activities such as trekking and hiking can be enjoyed in the nearby hills of Nellore, and water sports like boating and fishing can be enjoyed in Pulicat Lake.