Horsley Hills: A Scenic Hill Station
About Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills, also known as Horsleykonda or Yenugulla Mallamma Konda, is a beautiful hill station in Andhra Pradesh. It is located in Madanapalle taluka of Chittoor district, approximately 9 miles from Madanapalle town. Horsley Hills is situated at an elevation of 1300 meters above sea level, offering a serene escape from the surrounding dry and hot climate. The hill station is named after W.D. Horsley, a British collector who built his home here around 1870.
Climate of Horsley Hills
Winters in Horsley Hills start in December and last until February. The weather during these months is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C. Summers in Horsley Hills, from March to May, are relatively hot, with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. Due to the heat, tourists usually avoid visiting Horsley Hills during summer.
Best Time to Visit Horsley Hills
The best time to visit Horsley Hills is during the winter season. The climate remains comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing. The best time to visit Horsley Hills is from December to March.
How to Reach Horsley Hills
By Air
The nearest international airport is Bangalore International Airport, approximately a three-hour drive from Horsley Hills. The airport connects to major cities like Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Madanapalle Railway Station, about 26 km from Horsley Hills. This station is on the New Delhi-Chittoor railway line and is well-connected to cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Chennai, and Patna.
By Road
Horsley Hills is well-connected by road, with distances from major cities as follows:
- 29 km from Madanapalle
- 121 km from Chittoor
- 185 km from Bangalore
- 277 km from Chennai
- 521 km from Hyderabad
Accommodation Options in Horsley Hills
Visitors can find deluxe, medium, and budget accommodations near Horsley Hills, including:
- Bans The Hotel (Pantrampalli Village)
- Haritha Hill Resort (Horsley Hills)
- Sree Krishna Lodge (Madanapalle)
- Bhaskara Hotel (Chittoor)
- TSN Residency (Nagari)
Festivals and Events in Horsley Hills
Pongal
Pongal is an important festival in Horsley Hills, celebrated in mid-January. The locals prepare a special sweet dish, Pongal, which they offer to the Sun God.
Ganesh Chaturthi
Celebrated in August-September, Ganesh Chaturthi is a vibrant festival in Horsley Hills, marked by processions and prayers.
Things to Do in Horsley Hills
Sightseeing in Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills is home to stunning sights, including:
- Kalyani - The oldest known eucalyptus tree, over 148 years old.
- Thimmamma Marrimanu - The world's largest banyan tree, covering 8 acres.
- Horsley Hills Environment Centre - Houses deer, crocodiles, and other wildlife.
- Gurramkonda Fort - A historic fort near Horsley Hills.
- Governor’s House - A British-era bungalow with colonial architecture.
Adventure Activities in Horsley Hills
Visitors can enjoy several adventure activities in Horsley Hills, such as:
- Trekking in Horsley Hills
- Rock climbing and rappelling
- Rope sliding and Burma Bridge crossing
- Elephant rides and fish spa
- Zorbing and water walking
Local Cuisine and Shopping
While visiting Horsley Hills, don’t miss trying Pulihora Tamarind Rice, a local delicacy. Visitors can also shop for traditional tribal handicrafts made by the Chenchu tribes.
Conclusion
Whether you want to visit Horsley Hills for its scenic beauty, adventure activities, or vibrant festivals, this hill station offers a memorable experience. The best time to visit Horsley Hills is during winter when the climate is pleasant. Plan your trip now and enjoy the tranquility of Horsley Hills!
