Ankapur Travel Guide

Plan a trip to Ankapur with our comprehensive travel guide, covering places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food scene, accommodation options, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Ankapur

Ankapur is a small town located in the state of Telangana, in Southern India. Despite its size, Ankapur offers an array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that attract thousands of tourists every year. The town’s rich history and unique culture are reflected in its architecture, cuisine, festivals, and customs.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore Ankapur’s must-visit places, the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, how to get there, and other travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to this charming destination.

List of Places to Visit in Ankapur

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ankapur Heritage Village: This living museum showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of Telugu people, with a focus on the village life of Ankapur. Visitors can witness pottery-making, weaving, brass work, and other traditional activities. The village also has a museum showcasing ancient artifacts, weapons, and a unique collection of vintage radios.

  • Satyanarayana Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Satyanarayana is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike. The temple’s architecture, intricate carvings, and rich history make it a must-visit attraction.

  • Kala Ashramam: This is an art school founded by Padmashree awardee Shri Uday Shankar. It offers courses in various forms of classical and contemporary dance, music, painting, and sculpture. Visitors can witness students’ performances and interact with the artists and instructors.

Natural Attractions of Ankapur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pulikat Lake Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary is a paradise for bird-watchers and nature lovers, housing over 120 species of migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and herons. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the lake and its surroundings.

  • Nagarjuna Sagar Dam: This dam, built on the Krishna River, is one of the largest and tallest in the world. Its scenic surroundings offer stunning views of the river and the hills. Boating, fishing, and other water activities are available here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ankapur

  • Ankapur Hill Trek: This eight-kilometer trek offers breathtaking views of the town and its surroundings. The trek starts at Satyanarayana Temple and passes through the Ankapur Heritage Village, the Kala Ashramam, and ends at the hilltop temple.

  • Krishna River Cycling Trail: This 40-kilometer trail follows the banks of the Krishna River, starting from the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and passing through lush green fields, quaint villages, and scenic landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Ankapur: Activities and Tours

  • Pottery-making Workshop: Visitors can learn the art of pottery-making from the experts at the Ankapur Heritage Village.

  • Traditional Cooking Class: Get hands-on experience in the traditional Telugu cuisine with a cooking class conducted by the locals.

  • Heritage Village Tour: Take a guided tour of the Ankapur Heritage Village, witnessing traditional activities and interacting with the locals to learn more about the Telugu culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ankapur

Day Activity
1 Arrival and Check-In
2 Visit Satyanarayana Temple and Ankapur Heritage Village
3 Trek to Ankapur Hill and Kala Ashramam
4 Explore Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and Bird Sanctuary
5 Take a cycling tour along the Krishna River
6 Attend a traditional cooking class
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Ankapur

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gongura Mutton: A spicy and tangy dish made with lamb and sorrel leaves, usually served with steamed rice.

  • Jaggery Pongal: A sweet dish made with rice, lentils, and jaggery, similar to a rice pudding.

  • Ulava Charu: A flavorful soup made with horse gram and tamarind, usually served with steamed rice.

Local Beverages

  • Gurramannam: A popular non-alcoholic drink made with jaggery, dry ginger, lemon juice, and black pepper.

  • Karak Chai: A strong and aromatic tea made with black tea leaves, milk, and spices.

Where to Stay in Ankapur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Ankapur Palace Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

  • Heritage Village Resort: This resort is located within the Ankapur Heritage Village and offers cottages and villas with all modern amenities.

  • Aalankrita Resort: This eco-friendly resort is located a few kilometers away from Ankapur and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving organic food.

What to Buy in Ankapur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kalamkari fabric: A hand-painted and block-printed cotton fabric, usually used for clothing and home decor.

  • Mango Pickle: A spicy and tangy pickle made with locally grown mangoes, usually served with rice.

  • Brass handicrafts: Brass utensils, idols, and other decorative items, handcrafted by the local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Ankapur

  • Ankapur is an ancient town, and its culture and customs are deeply rooted in its history and traditions.
  • The locals are friendly and hospitable, and visitors are expected to show respect towards them and their customs.
  • The Telugu language is widely spoken in Ankapur, and learning a few basic phrases can help visitors in their interactions.

Best Time to Visit Ankapur

The best time to visit Ankapur is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months, between April and June, can be hot and dry, while the monsoon months, between July and September, can be unpredictable and wet.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ankapur

Do:

  • Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites and temples.
  • Respect the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the locals.
  • Try the local cuisine and engage in cultural activities.

Don’t:

  • Carry and use drugs or other illegal substances.
  • Disrespect the environment and wildlife.
  • Take pictures of the locals without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ankapur

Ankapur is a safe town, and violent crimes or thefts are rare. However, visitors are advised to take precautions like keeping their valuables safe and being vigilant while traveling at night.

Health in Ankapur

Ankapur has adequate medical facilities, and visitors can avail medical assistance if required. Tourists are advised to carry their medication and be careful while consuming food and drinks.

Getting to Ankapur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ankapur

The nearest airport to Ankapur is in Hyderabad, which is approximately 130 kilometers away from the town. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ankapur.

Bus Stations Near Ankapur

The town has a well-connected bus station, and visitors can get direct buses from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and other nearby cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Guntur or Vijayawada, which are the nearest railway stations, and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ankapur.

How to Get Around in Ankapur

Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available in Ankapur and are the best options for local transportation. Visitors can also rent bicycles and motorbikes to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Ankapur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hyderabad: The vibrant capital city of Telangana, known for its food, culture, and history, is located just a few hours away from Ankapur.

  • Warangal: This ancient city, known for its architecture and historical significance, is located approximately 200 kilometers away from Ankapur.

Conclusion

Ankapur is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. With a plethora of attractions and activities, Ankapur is an ideal destination for tourists looking for an offbeat and authentic travel experience. Plan your trip to Ankapur, and immerse yourself in the charming Telugu culture and its glorious past.