Tourism in Sri Sathyasai District | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

Eco Tourism

• Thimmamamarimanu, situated near Kadiri, is home to a remarkable Banyan Tree, famously known as "Thimmamma Marrimanu." This tree is a significant landmark, with its sprawling branches covering an extensive area of nearly 5 acres. Local legends associate the name "Thimmamma" with a historical event, suggesting that she performed the act of "Sati" at this very spot back in 1434 A.D.
• The awe-inspiring dimensions of this Banyan Tree have earned it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. With an impressive area spanning 8 acres and 15 cents, adorned with a multitude of 5559 branches, Thimmamamarimanu stands as a natural wonder, attracting visitors from far and wide.

Veerapuramu Sanctuary

• Veerapuramu, located near Hindupur, is well connected by road from Ananthapuramu, Bangalore City, and Bangalore International Airport.
• The sanctuary at Veerapuramu is a breeding ground for various bird species, including painted storks that travel long distances to nest here.
• Painted storks from Siberia have been residing in Veerapuramu for over a century, showing a unique bond with the village.
• The villagers of Veerapuramu claim that their affection for the guest birds is what attracts and retains them in the village.
• Despite limited water sources in the village, the male storks travel significant distances to fetch food for their families.
• These painted storks undertake a remarkable journey of about 6,000 km from Siberia and Algeria to reach Veerapuramu.

Kumbakarna Theme Park

The Kumbakarna Theme Park is located near Penukonda and covers an area of 5 acres. It features a colossal statue of the sleeping Kumbhakarna, which is 142 feet long and 32 feet tall. Visitors can enter the statue's cavernous belly. The park showcases several asuras attempting to awaken the slumbering giant, illustrating the well-known tale of Ravana's invincible brother in the Ramayana.
Details of Kumbakarna Theme Park:

• Kumbakarna Theme Park location: near Penukonda
• Size of the park: 5 acres
• Statue description: Gigantic statue of sleeping Kumbhakarna
• Statue dimensions: 142 feet long, 32 feet tall
• Interactive feature: Visitors can walk into the statue's belly
• Depiction: Several asuras trying to wake up Kumbhakarna
• Story context: Illustrates the narrative of Ravana's powerful brother in the Ramayana

Religious Tourism

Penukonda Babayya Swami (Baba Fakruddin) Dargah Urs

• Hazrath Baba Fakruddin was a prominent Sufi Saint during the 12th century.
• Darga Urs symbolizes religious tolerance in South India and occurs in March.
• Devotees from various locations like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Kerala, Singapore, and Malaysia visit the dargah.
• The dargah is a highly revered place of worship in the South.
• The event commences with the 'Gandhapu Pooja Mahotsav'.

Culture & Heritage

Yogi Vemana Samadhi (Kataru Palle)

• About: Katarupalli, situated 25 kilometers from Kadiri en route to Thimmama Marimanu, is renowned for the Yogi Vemana Samadhi. This site attracts numerous pilgrims and offers breathtaking views of diverse rock formations. Yogi Vemana, celebrated as the people's poet, is famous for his simple and colloquial Telugu poems that reflect everyday life experiences and societal issues. His works encompass themes of yoga, wisdom, and ethics, resonating with both literate and illiterate audiences. Known as the "Praja Kavi" or "Poet of the People," Vemana's poetry holds enduring popularity.
• Coordinates: 14.114359649462955, 78.24900631018286
• Routes to Reach:
  • Yogi Vemana Samadhi is easily accessible from Kadiri (12 km) by road.
  • It is well-connected by road from Puttaparthi (55 km) and 183 km from Bangalore City.
  • Located 161 km from the International Airport, Devanhalli, Bangalore.

Handicraft

Dharmavaram: The Silk City

• Dharmavaram is a vibrant city located in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, India.
• It serves as the administrative headquarters of Dharmavaram mandal and revenue division.
• The city is renowned for its exquisite handloom silk sarees, symbolizing the rich weaving heritage of the region.
• Alongside silk, Dharmavaram is also known for its cotton weaving industries, emphasizing its diversity in craftsmanship.
• Moreover, the art of crafting leather puppets thrives in this city, adding to its cultural significance.
• Due to its expertise in weaving, Dharmavaram has earned the title of the Silk City of Andhra Pradesh.
• The weaving industry plays a pivotal role in the town's economy, showcasing the reliance of the community on this traditional craft.
• Notably, the agricultural practices in the region heavily rely on rainfall as water resources are limited.

Nimmalakunta Leather Puppetry Craft

• Nimmalakunta, a quaint village within Dharmavaram Mandal, is celebrated for its skilled artisans in leather puppetry craft.
• This ancient folk art form, known as Tholu Bommalata, holds deep cultural roots in Andhra Pradesh.
• Artists from Nimmalakunta have excelled in creating intricate models and puppets, showcasing their dedication to preserving this traditional art.
• The craft predominantly focuses on depicting Indian epics such as Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavata, reflecting the cultural essence of the region.
• Through meticulous craftsmanship, these artisans bring these legendary stories to life, captivating audiences with their artistry.