Nestled in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh Horsley Hills (or Horsleykonda) is a hidden gem tour offering lush greenery, breathtaking viewpoints, and a cool climate. Known as the “Ooty of Andhra Pradesh,” this scenic hill station is a perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and peace seekers.
Located at an altitude of 4,100 feet, Horsley Hills Tour provides a refreshing escape from city life. Whether you want to enjoy panoramic valley views, explore thick forests, or try adventure activities like trekking and rappelling, Horsley Hills is a must-visit destination in South India.
This Horsley Hills Tour Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, accommodations, must-visit places, adventure activities, travel routes from Rajahmundry and Kakinada, distances from major cities, and local cuisines.
How To Reach Horsley Hills? 🚗🚆✈️
Horsley Hills is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
By Road 🛣️
Horsley Hills is connected via NH 42 and NH 71, offering a scenic drive through Eastern Ghats and coffee plantations.
- From Madanapalle (27 km) – A 45-minute drive.
- From Tirupati (130 km) – A 3-hour drive via Punganur.
- From Bangalore (160 km) – A 4-hour drive via Chintamani and Madanapalle.
Regular buses and taxis operate from Tirupati, Bangalore, and Madanapalle to Horsley Hills.
By Train 🚆
The nearest railway stations to Horsley Hills are:
- Madanapalle Road Railway Station (27 km) – Connected to Tirupati, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
- Chittoor Railway Station (124 km) – Well-connected to major South Indian cities.
From these stations, take a taxi or bus to Horsley Hills.
By Air ✈️
The nearest airport is:
- Tirupati International Airport (130 km) – Connected to Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore.
- Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (160 km) – The best option for international travelers.
From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Horsley Hills.
Best Time to Visit Horsley Hills ☀️❄️
Horsley Hills enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year, making it a great year-round destination.
| Season | Months | Weather | Best Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | October – February | Cool & Pleasant (15°C – 22°C) | Trekking, Photography, Adventure Sports |
| Summer | March – May | Mild & Breezy (20°C – 30°C) | Sightseeing, Nature Walks, Boating |
| Monsoon | June – September | Moderate Rainfall (18°C – 25°C) | Greenery, Waterfalls, Peaceful Retreat |
Best Time to Visit: October to March for outdoor activities and adventure sports.
Horsley Hills Activities 🎒🌲
Horsley Hills offers a mix of adventure, nature exploration, and relaxation.
1. Trekking & Nature Walks 🥾
- Explore dense forests of eucalyptus, sandalwood, and mahogany trees.
- Take a trek to Gali Bandalu (Wind Rocks) for breathtaking valley views.
2. Zorbing, Rappelling & Rope Adventures 🧗♂️
- Try ziplining, rock climbing, and bungee trampoline at adventure parks.
- Horsley Hills is a great place for beginners to experience zorbing and rappelling.
3. Wildlife Spotting at Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary 🦌
- Home to Indian elephants, leopards, wild boars, and over 190 bird species.
- Ideal for birdwatching and photography.
4. Swimming & Boating at Horsley Hills Lake 🏞️
- A man-made lake perfect for boating and picnicking.
- Enjoy serene sunrises and sunset views by the lake.
5. Visit the 150-Year-Old Eucalyptus Tree 🌳
- A gigantic eucalyptus tree planted by British collector W.D. Horsley.
Horsley Hills Hotels & Resorts 🏨🌿
Horsley Hills offers budget resorts, eco-friendly lodges, and luxury hotels, ensuring a comfortable and scenic stay.
Luxury & Boutique Resorts 🌳
- Haritha Hill Resort (APTDC) – A government-run resort with breathtaking views and cottages.
- Horsley Hills Holiday Homes – A luxury stay with modern amenities and adventure activities.
- Windfall Resorts – A boutique resort offering wooden cottages and scenic landscapes.
Budget Stays & Homestays 🏡
- Governor’s Bungalow – A historic stay with colonial charm and mountain views.
- Horsley Hills Jungle Camp – A budget-friendly camping experience in nature.
- Hotel Grand Ridge – A mid-range option with a peaceful ambiance.
For an authentic experience, opt for a forest lodge or an eco-homestay.
Best Places to Visit in Horsley Hills 🌄🏞️
1. Gali Bandalu (Wind Rocks)
- A breathtaking viewpoint with strong winds and stunning sunset views.
2. Horsley Hills Viewpoint
- The highest point of the hills, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Ghats.
3. Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary
- A must-visit for wildlife lovers, home to elephants, leopards, and exotic birds.
4. Mallamma Temple
- A centuries-old temple dedicated to Goddess Mallamma, located amidst scenic hills.
5. Man-made Horsley Hills Lake
- A serene lake, perfect for boating and relaxing in nature.
Horsley Hills Tour from Rajahmundry 🚗
Horsley Hills is a long but scenic drive from Rajahmundry, making it a perfect weekend retreat.
- Distance: 660 km
- Travel Time: 12 hours
- Route: Rajahmundry → Vijayawada → Tirupati → Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills Tour from Kakinada 🚗
Horsley Hills is easily accessible from Kakinada, making it a great road trip destination.
- Distance: 700 km
- Travel Time: 12.5 hours
- Route: Kakinada → Rajahmundry → Tirupati → Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | 160 km | 4 hrs |
| Tirupati | 130 km | 3 hrs |
| Hyderabad | 540 km | 10 hrs |
| Chennai | 270 km | 6 hrs |
Horsley Hills Local Cuisines 🍛🌶️
Must-Try Dishes 🍽️
- Andhra-style Pulihora (Tamarind Rice)
- Gutti Vankaya (Stuffed Brinjal Curry)
- Ragi Sangati with Natu Kodi (Chicken Curry)
- Pesarattu (Green Gram Dosa)
Final Thoughts 🌿🏕️
Horsley Hills is a hidden paradise, offering stunning landscapes, adventure activities, and a peaceful ambiance. Whether you want to relax in the hills, trek through forests, or experience wildlife, Horsley Hills is the perfect offbeat getaway in Andhra Pradesh.
So pack your bags and escape to the scenic charm of Horsley Hills! 🌲✨
