Orvakal rock garden gears up for adventure sports

KURNOOL: The naturally formed Orvakal rock garden is all set for adventure sports, including rock-climbing and gliding.

Tourism officials say hillocks at Orvakal, Ahobilam, provide invigorating ambience for rock climbers.

Tourism department official Eswarayya said all infrastructure-related issues have been put in place to allow adventure at the rock garden. As regards paragliding, enthusiasts can get fine-tuned at the academy in Gandikota, which provides training.

Orvakal rocks in Kurnool are Silica and Quartz rock formations, possibly formed by volcano or just by wind and a water body present there. These rocks span over 1000 acres of land and this adventurous site is present on the NH 18, connecting Hyderabad and Chittoor districts, about 20 km south of Kurnool district.

A miniature grand canyon of sorts, Orvakal rock formations have been gaining popularity in recent times. It is ideal for adventure enthusiasts and rookie trekkers because the rocks are small.

Ahobilam is also perfect for rock climbing and draws several adventure enthusiasts. Trekking to Ugrastamba is through a narrow path that is full of small rocks that are slippery.

Naresh Setty, an adventure sports enthusiast, said Ahobilam is challenging even for a professional trekker. He said trekking leads one to a narrow path carved along the mountain with a waterfall gushing down from the top of it.

Shri Jwala Narasimha Swami temple is located at the end of this path. This is a cave temple and a small pool of water called 'Raktha Gundam" is located on the left side of the temple.