Anupu-- Buddhist Excavations Reconstructed

There are many Buddhist monuments and sites in India like Sanchi, Sarnath and Gaya. But Anupu in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh is unique because it is a reconstruction of Buddhist excavations namely a monastery, temple and amphitheatre. The reconstruction has been done using bricks, stones and pillars dating back to 3rd century AD and excavated in 1920s and 30s. Located 8 kms from Nagarjunasagar boating station (in AP), it is a must-visit for those interested in history. You may browse this link for a short write up on Anupu. 
Ghumakkad visited Anupu in June 2017 along with five other travellers. We had engaged the services of a local guide Mr Satyanarayana. He did a great job. Not many tourists visit Anupu. From AP boating station, it is a mere 15 minutes drive. Cabs or autos can be hired. Maintained by ASI- Archaeological Survey of India, it is worth a visit. Visitors must clear the area by sunset.
Pictures for you.

We invite you to our earlier story on Nagarjunakonda Island and Museum and how to get there from Hyderabad. The route map reproduced below.

Normally we hear of transplantation of trees or kidneys. But Anupu is a re-transplanted Buddhist site.

Here is a 50 second video giving you an all round view from top of the amphitheatre.

Here is another short video wherein you can hear the faint yet clear call 'wapas aao' वापस आओ (come back) by Neeta who was sitting in the car more than 500 meters away! Please concentrate on the audio as the video may be blurred!

You may like to view a short 30-second video of a black-winged kite calling while flapping its tail.

Ghumakkad's last story (5th in the series) will bring out an upcoming tourist destination near Nagarjunasagar called 'Buddha Vanam'. Constructed on a sprawling 35 acre site, it portrays the "Life of Buddha". Preview picture for you.

We end with a quotation from Abram Joseph Ryan who said "A land without ruins is a land without memories-- a land without memories is a land without history". Anupu is surely helping in recreating history of Buddhist era in India.

Thanks for browsing,

    Harsh-the-Ghumakkad/ 8th July 2017

Nagarjunakonda An Island Museum

Boating in large water bodies is a thrill by itself. Nagarjunasagar reservoir on the border of AP and Telangana provides such a thrill. Both AP and Telangana tourism departments operate motor boats to visit Nagarjunakonda island. It houses a museum on Buddha's life with artefacts and sculptures dating back to 3rd century AD. Boat service is subject to calm weather. The museum is closed on Fridays and the last boat leaves at 4.30 pm from the island. So much for the facts.

Ghumakkad went to Nagarjunakonda in June 2017. You may browse the previous story 'Nagarjunasagar- A Getaway from Hyderabad'. It gives details of the travellers, route by car and accommodation. Route reproduced here.


This story takes you on the boat ride and the island.
Enjoy the picture story.

You are welcome to browse the story 'Coracle- Not for the weak hearted' from our trip to Hampi in Feb-2017.

Moving on, have you ever seen a church built like a temple?

If you haven't seen a River Tern in flight, browse the story 'Flying with a River Tern' which includes video clips.

Here is a short 40-seconds video of Nallamala forest as seen from the boat. Please disregard the engine noise in the video.

After 40 minutes or so, the island comes into view. We approach the jetty.

While approaching Nagarjunakonda jetty, the guide pointed out  hill feature named 'Simhagiri'. The hill top does resemble a lion stalking for a kill. Does it not?

Got a feel of the climb in the video below-- 20 seconds only.

Our guide Mr Satyanarayana explained the history of the place and formation of the museum. See a short 24 seconds video.

Though fairly warm afternoon, but bright sunlight gave us some sharp images including a short video comparison of how the two States are managing their affairs.

We end with a quotation "Find what brings you joy and go there"! 

Coming up next is Anupu, a small village 8 kms from AP boat station where a Buddhist monastery and an amphitheatre have been reconstructed. Watch out for the next story.

 Thanks for browsing,
      -Harsh-the-Ghumakkad/ 4th July 2017