Belum Caves, located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, are the second largest natural caves in India. Nestled amidst the Nallamala hills, these caves attract tourists for their stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations and archaeological significance. Travelers from Hyderabad, Bangalore, and other nearby cities often visit Belum Caves for weekend trips, nature exploration, and historical interest.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Belum Caves, including train, bus, car, and local transport options. Whether you are planning a solo trip or a family outing, you will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best times to visit, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.

Getting from Major Cities to Belum Caves – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical option for reaching Belum Caves, especially from Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai. The nearest railway station is Adoni, about 35 km from the caves, well connected by several trains daily.

• Nearest station – Adoni:

  Adoni Railway Station lies on the Guntakal–Guntur line. It is approximately 35 km from Belum Caves, and taxis or buses are available from here. Trains from Hyderabad and Bangalore to Adoni take around 5–7 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class.

• Train frequency and classes:

  Multiple express and passenger trains run daily. Booking AC or sleeper class via IRCTC is recommended for comfort on longer journeys. Advance booking is advised during weekends and holidays.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Adoni station, autos and private taxis are available but can be scarce in the late evening. Pre-booking a cab or coordinating with your hotel can save waiting time.

• Scenic route:

  The train journey passes through the scenic Deccan plateau and rural Andhra landscapes, especially pleasant during the cooler months.

• Potential delays:

  Trains in this region can face delays during monsoon due to track maintenance. Check real-time status on NTES before traveling.

Bus

State-run and private buses provide a direct and affordable way to reach Belum Caves from nearby towns and cities. Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates regular services to Adoni and nearby stops.

• Direct buses to Adoni:

  Frequent APSRTC buses run from Kurnool, Hyderabad, and Anantapur to Adoni. The journey from Hyderabad takes about 6–7 hours, costing ₹200–₹400 depending on bus type.

• From Adoni to Belum Caves:

  Local buses or shared autos connect Adoni to Belum Caves. These are infrequent, so hiring a taxi or private vehicle is often more convenient.

• Bus types and comfort:

  Options include deluxe, non-AC, and sleeper buses. Deluxe buses offer better comfort for long journeys but book early during peak seasons.

• Road conditions:

  The NH167 and SH33 highways connecting Adoni to Belum Caves are in good condition, with some tolls. Avoid night travel on these roads due to limited lighting.

• Seasonal tips:

  During monsoon, bus services may be slower due to road conditions. Summer afternoons can be hot, so prefer early morning departures.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Belum Caves is a flexible and scenic option, especially for travelers from Hyderabad, Bangalore, or Kurnool. The route offers beautiful views of the Nallamala forest and rural Andhra Pradesh.

• Route details:

  From Hyderabad, take NH44 towards Kurnool, then NH167 to Adoni, and finally SH33 to Belum Caves. The total distance is about 280 km, taking approximately 5.5 to 6 hours.

• Road quality and tolls:

  Most highways are well maintained with multiple toll plazas. Fuel stations and eateries like Indian Oil pumps and local dhabas are available en route.

• Navigation tips:

  Use Google Maps or offline GPS apps as mobile signals can be weak near the caves. Carry a physical map as backup.

• Parking and access:

  Belum Caves has designated parking areas near the entrance. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.

• Driving cautions:

  Avoid night driving on SH33 due to wildlife crossings and limited street lighting. Watch for slow-moving vehicles and livestock on rural stretches.

Flight

While there is no airport near Belum Caves, air travel can be combined with other modes for faster access. The nearest airports are in Hyderabad and Vijayawada.

• Nearest airports:

  Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Hyderabad) is about 280 km away, and Vijayawada Airport is approximately 320 km from Belum Caves.

• Connecting transport:

  From Hyderabad or Vijayawada airports, travelers can hire taxis or take trains/buses to Adoni, then proceed to Belum Caves.

• Flight frequency and fares:

  Hyderabad is well connected nationally and internationally. Flight fares vary seasonally, with budget airlines offering competitive prices.

• Travel time savings:

  Flying reduces long-distance travel time, but last-mile connectivity from airports to Belum Caves requires planning.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights and onward train/bus tickets well in advance during festival seasons to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time visitors to Belum Caves, ensuring smooth transitions between transport modes and minimizing wait times.

• Book train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or APSRTC online portals for buses at least a week in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Arrive early at departure points:

  Reach Hyderabad Railway Station or bus terminals at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and secure good seats.

• Coordinate last-mile transport:

  Pre-book a taxi from Adoni station or bus stop to Belum Caves via local operators or apps like Ola to avoid waiting or overpaying.

• Carry essentials for the cave visit:

  Bring water, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes. The cave interiors can be cool and damp, so a light jacket is advisable.

• Plan your return:

  Check train and bus timings back to your origin city and consider booking return tickets in advance to avoid sold-out situations.

• Use local guides if possible:

  Hiring a guide at Belum Caves enhances the experience with historical and geological insights.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety and health:

  Carry a basic first-aid kit and stay hydrated. Avoid touching cave formations to preserve them and prevent skin irritation.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks as options near the caves are limited. Try local Andhra cuisine at Adoni for authentic flavors.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official IRCTC and APSRTC websites or apps for reliable ticket booking. Avoid agents charging extra fees.

• Local commute:

  Ola and Uber are limited in Adoni; prefer prepaid taxis or arrange transport through your accommodation.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light, especially if using buses or shared autos. Keep valuables secure and carry a daypack for essentials.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid monsoon months (July–September) for cave visits due to slippery paths and possible flooding inside the caves.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to visit Belum Caves is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the cave interiors remain comfortable for exploration.

Summer months can be hot and humid, while monsoon rains may restrict access and cause slippery conditions inside the caves.

• Avoid peak traffic hours around Hyderabad and Kurnool during weekends to reduce travel time.

• Visit early morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds at the caves.

• Steer clear of festival weekends like Sankranti or Diwali when transport and accommodation are in high demand.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling to avoid disruptions from heavy rains or fog.

Arrival at Belum Caves & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Belum Caves, visitors are greeted by a well-maintained entrance with ticket counters and basic amenities. The site offers guided tours that last about an hour, showcasing the vast chambers and unique rock formations.

Local transport options include shared autos and taxis for nearby towns. Accommodation is limited near the caves, so many travelers stay in Adoni or Kurnool, which offer a range of hotels and guesthouses.

Conclusion

Among the various options, traveling by train to Adoni followed by a taxi to Belum Caves is the most efficient and comfortable way for most visitors. It balances cost, convenience, and connectivity, making it ideal for both solo travelers and families.

With proper planning, early bookings, and awareness of local conditions, you can confidently embark on your journey to Belum Caves and enjoy one of Andhra Pradesh’s most fascinating natural wonders.