Things To Do
in Ongole

Ongole is a vibrant city located in the Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, Ongole is famous for its lush greenery and the iconic Ongole cattle breed. The city serves as a hub for trade and agriculture, particularly in the production of rice and other crops.

With a mix of modernity and tradition, Ongole offers visitors a glimpse into the local lifestyle and an array of attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Culture and Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the famous Sri Ramachandra Swamy Temple, a significant religious site known for its intricate architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles unique to the region.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Ongole River, followed by dining at a local restaurant to taste authentic Andhra cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the nearby Kottarakkara village to explore the scenic countryside and enjoy a picnic amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Engage in some outdoor activities like cycling or bird-watching at the local parks.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a popular café or bar, enjoying live music and cultural performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$1-3
🏨Budget hotel per night$10-20
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$15-30
📶SIM card (monthly)$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming local population.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "నమస్కారం" - Hello
  • "ధన్యవాదాలు" - Thank you
  • "క్షమించండి" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "మీరు ఎలా ఉన్నారు?" - How are you?
  • "ఇది ఎంత?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Ongole

Visit one of these nice places.

Sri Ramachandra Swamy Temple

A stunning temple with intricate carvings and beautiful architecture, perfect for architectural photography.

Ongole River

The serene riverbank offers picturesque sunset views, ideal for nature photography.

Kottarakkara Countryside

Lush green fields and traditional villages provide a stunning backdrop for landscape photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ongole

Ongole is a food lover’s paradise, offering a delectable range of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Andhra Pradesh.

Ongole Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gongura Pachadi

A tangy and spicy chutney made from Gongura leaves, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Pulihora

A flavorful tamarind rice dish, seasoned with mustard seeds and curry leaves.

Andhra Chicken Curry

A spicy and aromatic chicken curry, cooked with traditional spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ongole Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local delicacies.

Street Food Stalls at Raju Road

Popular for serving delicious snacks like dosa, idli, and vada.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ongole experiences a tropical climate, with hot summers, a monsoon season, and mild winters. Summers (March to June) can be extremely hot, while the monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rainfall. Winters (November to February) are pleasant and cool, making it an ideal time for visitors.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders, as it is an important cultural norm.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ongole is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables. Additionally, ensure to drink bottled water to avoid waterborne diseases.

Tipping in Ongole

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments via apps like Paytm and UPI are increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect hot and dry weather, with temperatures soaring above 35°C. Stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Monsoon

Rainfall is frequent between June and September, leading to lush greenery but also potential travel disruptions.

Winter

Cooler temperatures from November to February make it a pleasant time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.

Spring

March to May sees warmer weather, ideal for outdoor activities and local festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Ongole at Night

Ongole's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a variety of options for a relaxed evening. Cafés and restaurants often feature live music, and some bars provide a lively atmosphere for socializing. While not as vibrant as larger cities, local spots provide a chance to enjoy regional drinks and snacks in a friendly setting.

Hiking in Ongole

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nallamala Hills

Located about 80 km from Ongole, this area offers several trails with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

Penchalakona Hills

Approximately 50 km away, these hills feature trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and are ideal for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Ongole by plane.

Vijayawada Airport (VGA)

Located approximately 160 km from Ongole, Vijayawada Airport is the nearest major airport, offering domestic flights to major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ongole is fairly walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, markets, and eateries are concentrated. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of traffic and potholes. Exploring on foot allows visitors to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Telugu Speakers

The majority of the population speaks Telugu as their first language, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region.

Agricultural Community

A significant portion of the population is engaged in agriculture, contributing to the local economy and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in Ongole, with many locals engaging in matches and supporting local teams.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi is a traditional sport in the region, often played in local tournaments and festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ongole can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and auto-rickshaws, which are common and affordable. It's advisable to use local transport apps for ride-hailing services.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ongole.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, catering to dietary preferences.

Spice Levels

Inform the staff about your spice tolerance, as Andhra cuisine is traditionally very spicy.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Ongole include both public and private hospitals, with basic medical services available. However, for specialized treatments, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance and carry basic medications.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

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