Andhra Pradesh has hosted variety of cultures, religions and traditions for centuries and still continues to embrace them. While Buddhist civilization flourished under the great reign of emperor Ashoka, before the birth of Christ, the early part of the last millennium witnessed the Hindu civilization at its best. Beside its rich cultural and historical background, Andhra Pradesh today boasts of innumerable tourist destinations that attract tourists from India and abroad. The State has continuously been adding and developing tourist destinations which have made Andhra an irresistible destination in the world.

The latest addition is Horsley Hills, a fascinating hill resort in Andhra Pradesh and one of the lesser-known wonders of South India. Situated at 1265 mts above sea level, this idyllic place is located in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, just 144 kms from Tirupati and 150 kms from Bangalore.

Named after W.D.Horsley, the collector of Cuddapah during the British regime, who discovered these pristine hill tracts and made it his summer retreat, Horsley Hills have amazing natural beauty and cool environs. Later a road was laid to the resort and the cottage atop the hill was used as summer residence of Governor of Andhra Pradesh for years.

Horsley Hills have lush green vegetation and beautiful landscape. While Rayalaseema the region in which Horsley Hills are located is dry and arid land but the hills serves as oasis. The drive from Madanapalle down hill to the resort through groves of teak, sandalwood eucalyptus, gulmohar, mango and other emerald vegetation offer delectable feast to the eyes.

Horsley Hills offer option for trekking, hiking, leisure walks and bird watching. It is an excellent place to limber up your legs close to Mother Nature and once you feel tired relax on the slopes of these enchanting hills. The beauty of Horsley Hills is that all tourist attractions are within walking distances of each other.

While at Horsely Hills, you have other places of interest such as Gurram Konda located within the hill tracts of Horsley Hills. The steep pathways was once accessible only on horseback, leads to a fortress believed to have been under the occupation of Raza Ali, the nephew of Tipu Sultan who is known as the Tiger of Mysore. Stone plaques at the fort suggest that Tipu Sultan himself stayed here once.

Gali Bandalu is thrilling spot offering spectacular views of sunset. Strong winds blow here throughout the day. Tallest tree and highest point are other important spots.

Rishi Valley is another exotic location on the way to Horsley Hills from Madanapalle. Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurthy established Famous Rishi Valley School that follows teaching method, which is closer to nature and natural development of child. Beside the valley attracts hundreds of species and exotic birds migrating from different parts.

How to get there

Hoarsely Hills are a little above three hours drive from Tirupati and Bangalore. Regular buses and Taxis are available from Tirupati and Madanapalle. The nearest airport is Tirupati. Tirupati is well connected by air, road and bus from Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore.

Where to stay

AP Tourism has excellent accommodation at Horsley Hills at its Punnami Hill Resorts equipped with a restaurant and attached bar and a mini conference hall. The room tariff range from Rs.300 to 700. The reservation can be made at Punnami Hill Resort Phone No. 08571-69323 or Central Reservation office Phone No. 040-23453036, 040-23450165