Period
Medieval (likely 14th-15th century)
Style
Dravidian architecture
Protected by
State Archaeology Department (unofficially, locally maintained)
Best time to visit
Oct-Feb
Chennakesava Swamy Temple (main structure, gopuram, mandapams)
This ancient Vaishnavite temple is the spiritual heart of Markapur. Full details →
Hours
6am-12pm, 4pm-8pm
Entry
Free
Getting there
Located in Markapur town centre, walkable or short auto-rickshaw ride for rupees 30-50
Cumbum Lake (historical man-made reservoir)
Cumbum Lake is one of Asia's oldest man-made lakes, dating back to the 15th century. Full details →
Hours
Sunrise-Sunset
Entry
Free
Getting there
Approximately 25km from Markapur, hire an auto-rickshaw for rupees 300-400 (round trip) or take a local bus to Cumbum
Allowed in outer temple areas, restricted inside sanctum. No flash photography.
Maintained by local temple committee; periodic minor renovations.
Markapur is a quiet town in Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, primarily known for its ancient Chennakesava Swamy Temple.
The best time to visit Markapur is from October to February. The weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and temple visits.
You can reach Markapur by train (Markapur Road station), by bus (APSRTC from major cities), or by road. The nearest major airport is Vijayawada (VGA), 170km away.
No, entry to the Chennakesava Swamy Temple and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is free. Donations are optional.
Markapur is generally safe. However, solo female travelers should exercise caution, especially after dark in isolated areas. Stick to well-lit, populated places.
You must try Pulihora, Gongura Pachadi, Pesarattu, and spicy Andhra Chicken Curry. Explore local eateries for authentic flavors.
Telugu is the primary language spoken. Hindi and some English are understood by a few people, especially in commercial areas.
Markapur is not a major tourist hub, so there are no specific 'tourist traps' or overcrowded places to skip. However, if you dislike rural settings, you might find the town too quiet.
A low budget can be rupees 900-1500 per day, a mid-range budget rupees 2000-3000, and a high budget rupees 4500+ if you opt for the best available accommodation and dining.
Planning a trip to Markapur Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit?
Read the full destination guide for transport, hotels, food and more.
Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!
Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.
Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Essential cookies are always enabled.