On the southeastern edge of Kurnool, the Orvakal Rock Gardens occupy a landscape of weathered granite outcrops and balancing boulders that have been shaped over millennia by wind and water into peculiar formations. An ancient cave in the complex adds a historical dimension to what is primarily a scenic attraction.
The gardens are a popular local picnic spot and worth a visit for the geological interest alone. The Deccan Plateau's characteristic granite landscape is dramatically on display here, with massive rounded boulders piled on top of each other in formations that seem improbably balanced. The site is most atmospheric in the late afternoon when the reddish stone catches the low sun.
Getting there requires either a hired auto-rickshaw or a private vehicle from the centre of Kurnool. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Facilities are basic, so bring water and snacks.