<p>Hyderabad: The Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh's Nandyal region have been designated a Geo Heritage Site by the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Located in Kolimigundla mandal of Nandyal district, these caves are India's second largest natural cave system after those in Meghalaya.</p><p>With this recognition, Belum Caves becomes the seventh site in Andhra Pradesh to receive this prestigious status. State Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh hailed the designation as a proud moment, stressing that these caves are not merely natural wonders but ancient cultural sites deserving national and global attention. Belum caves already attract tourists in large numbers from across the country. </p>.Kolar Leaf Nosed Bat: This bat is only found in one cave in Kolar. One man is fighting to save them.<p>It is believed the cave system was formed over tens of thousands of years by the constant flow of underground water from the now-disappeared Chitravathi River. Carved from limestone deposits in the Erramalai region, the caves extend 3,229 meters (10,593.8 feet) in length and feature extensive passages, galleries, spacious chambers, freshwater sections, and siphons.</p><p>The caves reach their deepest point 150 feet below the entrance level at a section known as Pataalaganga. One remarkable section features stunning stalactite formations resembling cobra hoods, with ceiling formations that appear like thousands of cobras with opened hoods.</p><p>The caves hold considerable historical importance, with evidence suggesting occupation by Jain and Buddhist monks centuries ago. Archaeological surveys have uncovered Buddhist relics now housed in the Ananthapur Museum, as well as pre-Buddhist pottery and vessel remnants dating back to 4500 BC.</p><p>The caves were first documented in 1884 by British geologist Robert Bruce Foote, later explored in the 1980s, and declared a protected site in 1988. They opened to the public in 2002, allowing visitors to experience this remarkable underground wonder that combines geological marvel with rich cultural heritage.</p>
<p>Hyderabad: The Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh's Nandyal region have been designated a Geo Heritage Site by the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Located in Kolimigundla mandal of Nandyal district, these caves are India's second largest natural cave system after those in Meghalaya.</p><p>With this recognition, Belum Caves becomes the seventh site in Andhra Pradesh to receive this prestigious status. State Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh hailed the designation as a proud moment, stressing that these caves are not merely natural wonders but ancient cultural sites deserving national and global attention. Belum caves already attract tourists in large numbers from across the country. </p>.Kolar Leaf Nosed Bat: This bat is only found in one cave in Kolar. One man is fighting to save them.<p>It is believed the cave system was formed over tens of thousands of years by the constant flow of underground water from the now-disappeared Chitravathi River. Carved from limestone deposits in the Erramalai region, the caves extend 3,229 meters (10,593.8 feet) in length and feature extensive passages, galleries, spacious chambers, freshwater sections, and siphons.</p><p>The caves reach their deepest point 150 feet below the entrance level at a section known as Pataalaganga. One remarkable section features stunning stalactite formations resembling cobra hoods, with ceiling formations that appear like thousands of cobras with opened hoods.</p><p>The caves hold considerable historical importance, with evidence suggesting occupation by Jain and Buddhist monks centuries ago. Archaeological surveys have uncovered Buddhist relics now housed in the Ananthapur Museum, as well as pre-Buddhist pottery and vessel remnants dating back to 4500 BC.</p><p>The caves were first documented in 1884 by British geologist Robert Bruce Foote, later explored in the 1980s, and declared a protected site in 1988. They opened to the public in 2002, allowing visitors to experience this remarkable underground wonder that combines geological marvel with rich cultural heritage.</p>