Table of Contents
Eluru is a beautiful city in Andhra Pradesh, right in the middle of the state. It’s a special place with a mix of history, culture, and nature. Located in the West Godavari district, Eluru has a rich history, impressive buildings, and stunning natural scenery. In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Eluru so unique, looking at its past, interesting places to visit, its culture, and the way of life in the area.
Eluru History
Eluru has a rich history that goes way back in time, and it’s closely connected to the ruling dynasties of the region. A long time ago, in the inscriptions of King Vishnuvardhana of the Chalukyan dynasty, we can find some of the earliest mentions of Eluru. The city really thrived during the rule of the Eastern Chalukyas, who left behind impressive architectural wonders in the area.
One of the most important historical places in Eluru is Kolleru Lake. This big freshwater lake is not only a home to wildlife but also a crucial part of the city’s history. In the past, it was used for travelling and trade, connecting Eluru to different parts of the region. It was a significant hub for business, especially in transporting things like salt and other goods.
In the 17th century, Eluru became part of the Golconda Sultanate and later the British Empire. You can still see signs of British influence in some of the old buildings and infrastructure in the city today. Eluru was also a significant centre for the Indian independence movement, with many freedom fighters coming from this region.
Eluru Rich Culture
Eluru is a city where many different cultures and traditions come together. The main culture you’ll find here is Telugu, which has a deep history and is a big part of daily life. The primary language spoken in Eluru is Telugu, and the people here celebrate various festivals and traditions with a lot of excitement.
One of the most famous festivals in Eluru is Sankranti, a harvest festival. During this time, the whole city gets decorated with colourful art on the ground (rangoli) and people enjoy traditional sweets. You can also hear the sound of drums and see kites flying high in the sky during this festival. Another important festival is Ugadi, the Telugu New Year, which is celebrated with lots of energy and grand celebrations.
Eluru’s food is a real treat for those who love to eat. The region is well-known for its traditional Andhra cuisine, which is famous for its bold and spicy flavours. Some must-try dishes include the spicy Andhra chicken curry, biryani, and the classic Andhra thali, which offers a variety of delicious items. If you have a sweet tooth, you can savour delightful desserts like bobbatlu and ariselu in Eluru.
Eluru Best Local Markets and Shopping Location
Eluru is a great place for shopping with its lively markets and shopping areas. One of the city’s special items is beautiful handwoven silk sarees, which make for wonderful souvenirs. You can find these sarees, as well as a wide variety of other items, at places like Eluru Market and One Town Market. They offer everything from clothes to crafts and jewellery. Also, make sure to check out the lively street markets to buy local spices, pickles, and tasty traditional snacks.
Best Places to Visit in Eluru
Eluru is a treasure trove of tourist attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, this city has something to offer everyone.
- Kolleru Lake: This enormous, peaceful lake is like a dream come true for bird lovers. It’s a haven for many different kinds of birds that fly in during certain times of the year. You can take a calm boat ride and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.
- Dwaraka Tirumala Temple: This temple is also known as Chinna Tirupati and is a significant place of worship for followers of Lord Venkateswara. It’s perched on a hill, and to reach it, you can either climb 300 steps or take a more comfortable vehicle ride.
- Kolleru Bird Sanctuary: If you’re a bird enthusiast, you’ll love this place. It’s like a paradise for birds and nature lovers. Many migratory birds find their home here, making it a must-visit spot.
- Vatluru: This is a historical village that’s famous for its old inscriptions and ancient things. When you visit, you get a peek into the rich history of the region.
- Kolleru Wildlife Sanctuary: Besides the birds, this sanctuary is home to various animals and aquatic life. So, if you’re into wildlife, this is the place to be.
- Raghava Patnam Beach: This beach is where the Godavari River meets the Bay of Bengal. It’s a lovely, peaceful spot where you can unwind and escape the city’s busy life.
- Eluru City Architecture: Eluru has many old and colonial-style buildings, like the Kolleru Bridge and the Eluru Fort. These buildings tell the city’s history and show off some fantastic architecture.
- Buddha Park: At this park, you’ll find a huge statue of Lord Buddha. It’s a peaceful place where you can relax and think.
- Papanasanam: This place in the West Godavari district is a favourite for people on pilgrimages. It has a temple for Lord Shiva, and the natural setting with a beautiful waterfall makes it a serene spot for both spiritual folks and nature lovers.
- Basara Saraswathi Temple: While not exactly in Eluru, this temple isn’t too far away. It’s dedicated to the Goddess of Knowledge, Saraswathi, and it’s a special place for students and scholars.
Exploring Eluru
The best way to explore Eluru is by taking walks around the city. Stroll through its bustling markets, visit historical sites, and interact with the warm and welcoming locals. This city has a unique charm that can only be experienced by immersing yourself in its culture and lifestyle.
The People of Eluru
The people of Eluru are known for their warmth and hospitality. They are proud of their culture and heritage and are always eager to share their stories and traditions with visitors. It’s not uncommon to be invited into a local’s home for a traditional meal or to participate in a festival celebration.
The city’s residents are known for their love of art and music. You can often find classical music and dance performances happening in various parts of the city. The folk art forms, such as Kuchipudi and Burrakatha, are also an integral part of the local culture.
Eluru Transportation
Eluru is well-connected to major cities in Andhra Pradesh and the rest of India. The city has a railway station that is part of the South Central Railway network, making it accessible by train. The nearest airport is Vijayawada Airport, approximately 65 kilometres away, which connects Eluru to major Indian cities. Local transportation within Eluru includes buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. They provide convenient access to all the major attractions and destinations within the city.
Eluru, with its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who simply wants to experience the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the people, Eluru has something to offer everyone. As you walk through its historic streets, visit its serene temples, and explore its natural wonders, you’ll come to understand why Eluru holds a special place in the hearts of those who have had the privilege of visiting this enchanting city in Andhra Pradesh.
| Check Andhra Pradesh Cities |
|
| Adoni | Amaravati |
| Anantapur | Chandragiri |
| Chittoor | Dowlaiswaram |
| Eluru | Guntur |
| Kadapa | Kakinada |
| Kurnool | Machilipatnam |
| NagarjunaCkoṇḍa | Rajahmundry |
| Srikakulam | Tirupati |
| Vijayawada | Visakhapatnam |
| Vizianagaram | Yemmiganur |
Eluru Related FAQs
Why is Eluru famous?
Eluru is a city that makes a lot of things like clothes and leather items, but it's famous for its soft and comfy carpets. People in Eluru also do a lot of trading in things like rice, oilseeds, tobacco, and sugar. The city has a college that's connected to Andhra University in Vizianagaram.
What is the old name of Eluru District?
Eluru district was created in 2022 by taking a part of the old West Godavari District and 8 areas from the old Krishna District. It has a total of 27 areas and is divided into 3 Revenue divisions. The district's main office is located in Eluru.
What is the new district name of Eluru?
On April 2, 2022, Eluru District was created, and Eluru became its main centre. All the important government offices and regional offices for the district were also established in Eluru city. Before this change, Eluru used to be the main centre for West Godavari district.
Why is Eluru called Helapuri?
A long time ago, there was a place called Helapuri that later became known as Ellore. It was a very important city back then and was part of a place called the Vengi Kingdom, where people believed in Buddhism. This city used to be the capital of the Vengi Kingdom.
Is Eluru one of the largest?
Eluru is the capital of West Godavari District in Andhra Pradesh. It's a small, vibrant city that covers an area of 14.5 square kilometres. In terms of size, it's the sixth largest city in Andhra Pradesh and is home to about 350,000 people.
