Belum Caves

Belum Caves is a natural underground cave system near Belum Village in Kolimigundla Mandal, Nandyal District, Andhra Pradesh. It is the second longest cave system in the Indian subcontinent, extending about 3.5 km with 1.5 km open to visitors. Formed by the action of the Chitravati River on limestone, it features stalactite and stalagmite formations, spacious chambers, and passages developed and maintained for tourism by Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation.

Visitors can expect a developed show cave with illuminated passages, staircases and walkways leading through large chambers such as Kotilingalu Chamber, Patalaganga, Mandapam and Meditation Hall. The interior features limestone formations including stalactites, stalagmites, and natural sinkholes with daylight shafts. A large Buddha statue is installed near the entrance at Meditation Hall. The site includes a visitor centre, landscaped gardens and pathways outside the cave entrance.

The caves were formed over millions of years by the underground flow of the Chitravati River dissolving limestone. They were first scientifically noted in 1884 by British geologist and archaeologist Robert Bruce Foote. Archaeological findings indicate occupation by Jain and Buddhist monks, with relics of Buddhist period vessels dating back to around 4500 years. The caves were developed for tourism by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation in 2002.

The caves include a Meditation Hall believed to have been used by Buddhist monks for meditation, now marked by a large Buddha statue installed near the entrance. The Kotilingalu Chamber holds cultural interest for its lingam-like formations. The site is valued as a geological heritage and educational site showcasing speleothems and underground hydrology.