Belum Caves, the second-largest cave in the Indian Subcontinent and the longest cave in the plains, is well-known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations. Long tubes, large chambers, fresh water tunnels, and syphons can all be found in Belum Caves. It is a naturally occurring subterranean cave created by the continuous flow of subterranean water. The Pataala ganga point is where the caves’ deepest point (150 feet from entrance level) is located. The Sanskrit word “Bilum,” which means “cave,” is how Belum Caves got their name. [1] It is known as Belum Guhalu in Telugu.
Location:
Belum Caves is situated in Kolimigundla Mandal, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Kolimigundla is located 3 kilometres from Belum Caves.
Inception:
Belum caves were formed millions of years ago as a result of erosion in a limestone deposit in the area by the Chitravati River. Carbonic acid or weakly acidic groundwater formed by the reaction of limestone and water responsible for the formation of these limestone caves. Carbonic acid dissolved minerals in the area’s limestone rocks. The presence of the Chitravati River in the area for a long time allowed a large tunnel of underground caves to form. The Chitravati River now flows nearly 30 kilometres south of Belum. Belum Caves are located in Belum Village on a flat agricultural field. The central cavity serves as the primary entrance to the caves.
Discovery:
Despite the fact that the Belum Caves were known to the locals, the first mention of the Caves was in Mr Robert Bruce Foote’s expedition report in 1884. Belum Caves went unnoticed for nearly a century until 1982 and 1983, when a German team led by Mr Herbert Daniel Gebauer conducted detailed exploration of the caves. Locals Mr B. Chalapathi Reddy, Mr Ramaswami Reddy, Mr Boyu Madduleti, Mr K. Padmanabhaiah, Mr K. Chinnaiah, and Mr A. Sunkanna assisted the German invasion.
Historical Significance:
Belum has historical significance. Caves are geologically and historically significant. There is evidence that Jains and Buddhist monks occupied these caves centuries ago. Many Buddhist relics were discovered within the caves. These remains are now housed in the Anantapur Museum.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) discovered pre-Buddhist era vessel traces and has dated the vessel traces found in the caves to 4500 BC.
Cave Development:
Until 1988, the caves were used to dump waste from nearby areas. Locals in the surrounding areas, including Retired Additional Superintendent of Police M. Narayana Reddy, residents of Belum Village such as B. Chalapathi Reddy, and others, supported the government of Andhra Pradesh’s decision to develop the caves as a tourist attraction. Finally, after nearly two decades of effort, the government of Andhra Pradesh declared the entire area a protected zone. Finally, in 1999, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) took over the responsibility of enhancing and preserving the caves. The APTDC approved Rs.75,000,000.00 for the advancement of the caves.
APTDC has developed pathways along approximately 2 km of the caves’ length, added soft illumination, and created fresh-air bars in the caves. APTDC has built bridges, staircases, and other structures throughout the cave to facilitate movement. It has also built a canteen, restrooms, and toilets near the entrance.
An immense Buddha statue can be found near the Belum Caves. Buddhist monks used the “Meditation hall” area of the cave.
Timings:
Every day from 10 AM to 5 PM
Entrance Fee
Adults cost Rs.50 each in India; adults from other countries cost Rs.300 each; children cost Rs.35.
Accommodation
The Haritha hotel has rooms; reservations must be made in advance.
Contact Details
Office for Belum Caves: +91 9705389600
