Explore Gudur on Your Day Off

Penchalakona Waterfalls

  • Best Time to Visit: July–September (monsoon) for full water flow; October–March for cooler weather.
  • What to Wear: Light, quick‑dry clothes; sturdy shoes.
  • Distance from Tapaswini Ashram: ~90‑110 km (approx 2‑3 hours).
  • Getting There: By road via Nellore; local buses/taxis to village then a short trek to waterfall.
  • Photography: Early morning light or just after rains gives lush landscapes; avoid midday glare.
  • Entry Fee: No formal ticket—possible parking or local guide cost.

Tupilipalem (Thupilipalem) Beach

  • Best Time to Visit: October–February for mild weather; avoid monsoon storms.
  • What to Wear: Swimwear, sun protection, modest cover‑ups, footwear for sand.
  • Distance from Tapaswini Ashram: ~70‑100 km (rough estimate) depending on route.
  • Getting There: Drive via Nellore / Vakadu; road may be sandy; public transport options limited.
  • Photography: Sunrise and sunset are dramatic; long beach shots, shorelines, reflections.
  • Entry Fee: None known; it’s a public beach. Bring your own supplies (water, snacks).

Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary

  • Best Time to Visit: October–March when migratory birds arrive.
  • What to Wear: Neutral colours; closed shoes; hat; binoculars or lens for photography.
  • Distance from Tapaswini Ashram: ~100‑120 km approx.
  • Getting There: Via Sullurpeta; road transport by taxi or private vehicle.
  • Photography: Early morning (6‑9 am) and late afternoon best for bird sightings; respect quiet zones.
  • Entry Fee: Very low for Indian nationals; higher for foreign visitors (exact rate depends).

Tirupati / Tirumala Temple (Sri Venkateswara)

  • Best Time to Visit: Non‑festival periods to avoid huge crowds; early morning darshan.
  • What to Wear: Modest traditional clothing; men often dhoti or long pants; women saree or long dress.
  • Distance from Tapaswini Ashram: ~100‑130 km depending on route.
  • Getting There: By road, via Renigunta/Tirupati; buses and taxis available.
  • Photography: Inside temple premises photography often restricted; outside architecture, steps, gopurams good subjects.
  • Entry Fee: Free darshan / tickets; certain special services or queue passes have charges.

Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple (Srikalahasti)

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning / late evening; avoid midday heat; May‑June heat intense.
  • What to Wear: Traditional modest dress; cover shoulders; remove footwear; quiet tones.
  • Distance from Tapaswini Ashram: ~120‑150 km (estimate).
  • Getting There: By road from Tirupati or Chennai; bus/taxi to Srikalahasti.
  • Photography: Sunset/sunrise light; ornate carvings and temple architecture; avoid busy worship times.
  • Entry Fee: No standard entry fee; puja fees vary for special rituals.

Ahobilam Temple

  • Best Time to Visit: Post‑monsoon months (August‑October) when waterfalls & paths are easier; cooler weather.
  • What to Wear: Good walking shoes, modest temple dress; prepare for trekking / steps.
  • Distance from Tapaswini Ashram: ~200‑250 km (depending on route and starts).
  • Getting There: Drive to Lower Ahobilam; then trek or climb steps for Upper Ahobilam temples; local transport limited.
  • Photography: Scenic hills, river crossings, waterfalls; early morning best to avoid harsh light and crowds.
  • Entry Fee: Temple darshan usually free; may be small charge for parking or guide.

Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple, Buchireddypalem

  • Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or during festivals; winter months pleasant.
  • What to Wear: Modest clothing; traditional if possible.
  • Distance from Tapaswini Ashram: ~80‑100 km (estimate).
  • Getting There: Via road towards Nellore / Buchireddypalem; local buses or taxi.
  • Photography: Beautiful architecture; interiors during non‑crowd times; capture carvings.
  • Entry Fee: No known entry fee; possible donations.