A remote tribal village in the Kasipatnam area of Ananthagiri mandal, Alluri Sitarama Raju district, is emerging as a hub for spiritual tourism. The village of Kondaparthi, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,333 feet above sea level, is captivating visitors with its serene beauty and the revered Venkateswara Swamy temple.
The hilltop temple, constructed over two years at a cost of ₹10 crore, stands as a testament to the dedication of local communities. Housing deities including Venkateswara Swamy, Vinayaka, Anjaneya Swamy, Alivelu Mangamma, Padmavathi, and Godadevi, the temple attracts about 2,000 devotees daily. Devotees undertake a challenging journey from Visakhapatnam through Vizianagaram district, navigating a hilly road with 36 sharp turns for the final 18 kilometers to reach Upper Kondaparthi.
The temple’s location offers a peaceful escape from the chaos of city life, with stunning views of the surrounding hills, clouds, and the Tatipudi reservoir. The tranquil environment, free from noise pollution, has made it a favorite destination during Kartika Masam, a significant month in the Hindu calendar.
This newfound popularity of Kondaparthi has impacted nearby tourist spots like Araku and Paderu. According to Gauri Shankar, tourism manager at Borra Caves, the footfall at these destinations has declined significantly. On recent weekends, Borra Caves recorded daily incomes of nearly ₹2 lakh, but the influx of tourists has since dwindled. “Most tourists are now heading to Kasipatnam, drawn by its spiritual and scenic allure,” he explained.
Local transport providers have adjusted to the surge, but tourism officials in Paderu and Araku are considering new facilities and attractions to compete with the rising popularity of Kasipatnam. As the serene hilltop temple continues to draw large crowds, it underscores the growing appeal of spiritual tourism in India’s tribal regions.
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