A Mesmerizing Escape: Exploring Horsley Hills and Lepakshi

The idea of exploring Horsley Hills has been firmly imprinted in my thoughts for a considerable period. I thought of adding a few more options to the itinerary. Eventually, I settled on visiting Lapakshi and the awe-inspiring Thimmamma Marrimanu, the largest banyan tree in the world. With Horsley Hills located approximately 550 km away and a 10-hour journey from Hyderabad, I devised a clever plan to make the long drive more enjoyable. Instead of embarking on the journey in one go, I decided to commence the adventure in the evening, covering some distance and taking a break for the night. The following day, I would continue the expedition, completing the rest of the journey for the sake of convenience.

Embarking on an enchanting voyage to the historical town of Lepakshi, spanning a remarkable distance of 480 kilometers, our journey commenced in the serene embrace of an evening. With meticulous planning, I decided to make a delightful halt at Kurnool, perfectly positioning myself closer to 40% of the captivating path leading to Lepakshi.

Embracing the Majestic Lepakshi With the break of dawn, a new day of exploration unfolded. After replenishing  with a delightful breakfast at 8:30 AM, we resumed our journey towards Lepakshi. The road beckoned us with promises of hidden wonders and ancient mysteries waiting to be unveiled.

Lepakshi is a small village located in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, a state in southern India. It is renowned for its historical and archaeological significance, as well as its beautiful temples and intricate stone carvings. Here is some information about Lepakshi. Lepakshi has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century during the Vijayanagara Empire. It was an important center for trade and commerce during that time.

Veerabhadra Temple : The main attraction in Lepakshi is the Veerabhadra Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is known for its architectural brilliance and stunning sculptures. The temple was built by the brothers Viranna and Virupanna, who were governors in the Vijayanagara Empire.

Hanging Pillar: One of the most fascinating features of the Veerabhadra Temple is the hanging pillar. There is a pillar in the main hall of the temple that does not touch the ground fully. It is believed that the British tried to move the pillar in the past to uncover the secret of its support but were unsuccessful.

Hanging Pillar Gap

Monolithic Nandi: In front of the Veerabhadra Temple, there is a huge monolithic sculpture of Nandi, the sacred bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva. This sculpture is about 4.5 meters high and 8 meters long, making it one of the largest monolithic Nandi sculptures in India.

Paintings and Carvings: The walls and ceilings of the Veerabhadra Temple are adorned with intricate paintings and carvings. These depict various mythological stories, deities, and scenes from the Vijayanagara Empire.

To reach Lepakshi from Bangalore:

By Road: Lepakshi is located approximately 120 kilometers from Bangalore. You can take the following route by road: Bangalore - Doddaballapur - Hindupur – Lepakshi. This route takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

To reach Lepakshi from Hyderabad:

By Road: Lepakshi is located approximately 120 kilometers from Hyderabad. You can take the following route by road: Hyderabad - Kurnool - Kodumur – Lepakshi. This route takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Enchanting Horsley Hills Beckon

After embarking on an enchanting journey and savouring a delightful lunch, we found ourselves heading towards the captivating Horsley Hills, a mere three-hour drive away.

Upon arrival, we eagerly settled into the charming AP Tourism resort, preparing ourselves for an evening filled with enchantment as we set out to explore the picturesque landscapes of Horseley Hills on foot.

Imagine a place where nature weaves its enchanting tapestry, where every step you take reveals a breathtaking vista. Welcome to the Whisper Wind View Point, a sanctuary of serenity nestled amidst the embrace of Mother Earth. As you stroll along the path, a gentle melody caresses your ears, carried by the playful breeze that dances through the leaves.

In the midst of this wondrous landscape, you chance upon the Mallamma Temple.

Gali Bandalu, or the Wind Rocks, stand tall and proud, like ancient sentinels guarding the secrets of the land. Their weathered faces tell tales of a time long past, while their rugged beauty beckons you to explore further. You find yourself drawn to their majestic presence, eager to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle they hold.

Nature, in its whimsical glory, blesses the surroundings with a gentle shower. Raindrops fall like liquid diamonds, painting the canvas of the horizon with an exquisite array of colors. The landscape comes alive, vibrant hues dancing in harmony with the rhythm of the earth. The air is infused with a delicate fragrance, carrying the scent of petrichor, a symphony of earth and rain.

As you meander through this ethereal realm, a cool breeze brushes against your skin, whispering secrets of forgotten tales. The atmosphere embraces you with its gentle touch, creating a sanctuary of peace and tranquility

As the sun gently rose, we awakened to the crisp mountain air and the promise of a day filled with exploration. Eager to embrace the beauty of Horsley Hills, we set out on a leisurely walk along the undulating hills. The rolling meadows stretched as far as the eye could see, painting a breathtaking panorama of nature's splendor. Verdant valleys, carpeted with a myriad of flowers, accompanied me on my journey, uplifting my spirits and soothing my soul.

Horsley Hills Mini Zoo: A short distance away, we found ourself standing before the Horsley Hills Mini Zoo.The zoo housed a diverse collection of animals, including playful monkeys, graceful deer, colorful birds, and slithering reptiles. Observing these creatures in their natural habitats filled me with awe and provided a deeper understanding of the rich biodiversity that thrives within the hills.

Fish Spa Experience: To add a touch of relaxation and rejuvenation to my day, I decided to indulge in a unique experience at the Fish Spa. As I submerged my feet into the cool waters, tiny Garra Rufa fish surrounded me, ready to perform their natural exfoliation process. The tickling sensation, combined with the therapeutic effects, made for a truly one-of-a-kind pampering session. It was a moment of pure bliss and a refreshing interlude amidst my adventurous pursuits

The adventure activities available in Hosley Hills encompass a range of thrilling experiences, including ATV rides, zip cycling, ziplining, rope courses, bungee jumping, rappelling, rock climbing, and a dedicated kids game zone.

Best time to visit Horsley Hills

Immerse yourself in the extraordinary charm of Horsley Hills during the winter season, a time when nature's embrace is at its most captivating. With comfortable temperatures and ideal conditions for sightseeing, this enchanting destination beckons travelers seeking a respite from the heat and hustle of everyday life. Embrace the months of December, January, February, and March, as they unveil a world of breathtaking beauty and endless possibilities for exploration. Indulge in an unforgettable journey that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

To reach Horsley Hills from Bangalore:

By Road: Horsley Hills is located approximately 144 kilometers from Bangalore. You can take the following route by road:Bangalore - Nandi Hills - Chintamani - Madanapalle - Horsley Hills. This route takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

To reach Horsley Hills from Hyderabad:

By Road: Horsley Hills is located approximately 528 kilometers from Hyderabad. You can take the following route by road:  Hyderabad - Kurnool - Anantapur - Madanapalle - Horsley Hills . This route takes around 9-10 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

In conclusion, visiting Horsley Hills was a delightful experience. The scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and tranquility of the place made it a perfect getaway. The hill station offered breathtaking views, lush greenery, and opportunities for adventure activities like trekking and ziplining. Exploring the various viewpoints and enjoying the local cuisine added to the overall charm of the visit.

Now, it's time to move on to the next destination, Thimmamma Marrimanu. Located just a two-hour drive away.

The Majesty of Thimmamma Marrimanu

The allure of Thimmamma Marrimanu, the largest banyan tree in the world, awaited us. The grandeur of this natural wonder was a sight to behold—a testament to the resilience and majesty of nature herself. As we stood beneath its sprawling canopy, we marveled at the intricate network of roots that supported this behemoth, providing shelter and sustenance to countless creatures.

In the shade of Thimmamma Marrimanu, time ceased its relentless march, allowing me to bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. The gentle rustle of leaves whispered ancient tales, while the interplay of sunlight and shadow painted a mesmerizing portrait of nature's harmony.

In conclusion, the journey to Horsley Hills, Lepakshi and Thimmamma, Marrimanu was an exhilarating adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, historical wonders, and a deep sense of cultural immersion. These destinations in Andhra Pradesh, India, offered a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural marvels that left me in awe at every turn.