3 Days in Nellore for a Spicy Food Trip

Nellore is a hidden gem for food lovers, especially if you enjoy bold Andhra flavors. I've spent years eating my way through the city, from tiny street stalls to family-run restaurants. The food here has a unique character - think fiery curries, fragrant rice dishes, and seafood that'll make you forget about fancy dining. This itinerary covers the must-try spots while leaving room for unexpected discoveries.

Andhra Pradesh, andhra-pradesh
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Eating fresh prawns at a local dhaba by the Penna River
Tasting the famous Nellore-style biryani that locals line up for
Discovering how different their version of pesarattu is from the rest of Andhra

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Nellore

Kick off your Nellore food and culture tour with the city's most iconic spots, from historic temples to legendary eateries serving up Andhra's fiery flavors.

Activities

Breakfast at Ramayya Hotel

Start your day like a true Nellore local at this 70-year-old institution famous for its crispy, golden-brown pesarattu (green gram dosa) served with tangy ginger chutney. The ghee roast version is legendary. Arrive early to beat the office crowd.

Ramayya Hotel, Near Municipal Office, Trunk Road7:30-10:30 AM (best before 9 AM)₹100-200 per person
Tips:
  • Try their special 'Nellore style' coffee - stronger and sweeter than typical South Indian filter coffee
  • Cash only - no card payments accepted
Explore Jonnawada Temple

This 13th-century temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi sits peacefully on the banks of the Penna River. Watch devotees perform unique rituals like floating coconuts downstream. The temple's gopuram (tower) offers great views of the surrounding countryside.

Jonnawada, 12km from Nellore city center9 AM-12 PM (avoid noon heat)Free (₹20 for camera)
Tips:
  • Remove footwear before entering temple complex
  • Women should carry a shawl to cover shoulders if wearing sleeveless
Lunch at Kakatiya Mess

Dive into Nellore's most famous culinary export - the fiery Chepala Pulusu (fish curry). This no-frills eatery serves it with perfect, fluffy Andhra meals rice. Their mutton fry and gutti vankaya (stuffed brinjal) are equally memorable.

Kakatiya Mess, Near RTC Bus Stand12:30-3 PM (peak at 1:30 PM)₹300-500 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for 'Nellore special' extra spicy version if you can handle heat
  • They don't serve alcohol - try the spicy buttermilk instead

Must Try Foods

Chepala Pulusu (Nellore-style fish curry)
Pesarattu with Upma (green gram dosa)
Gutti Vankaya (stuffed brinjal curry)
Royyala Iguru (prawn fry)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Nellore Railway Station (2km from city center, 10 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Nellore RTC Bus Stand (central location, buses every 15-30 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Ola/Uber available but autos (₹50-100 per ride) are more common for short distances

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Nellore

Dive deeper into Nellore's culture with visits to its historic sites and savoring more of its iconic flavors.

Activities

Visit Udayagiri Fort
Visit Udayagiri Fort

Start your day with a trip to Udayagiri Fort, a 14th-century hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The fort's ruins, including a small temple and ancient cannons, tell stories of its past glory. The climb is moderate, but the breeze at the top makes it worth it.

Udayagiri Fort, about 30 km from Nellore city centerMorning, around 8 AM to avoid the midday heatFree entry
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb
  • Carry water and a hat for sun protection
Lunch at Subbamma Vantillu

Head back to the city for a hearty Andhra meal at Subbamma Vantillu, a no-frills spot loved by locals for its homely flavors. Their spicy mutton curry and tangy Gongura pachadi (sorrel leaves chutney) are must-tries. The thali here is a great way to sample a bit of everything.

Subbamma Vantillu, near RTC Bus Stand, NelloreAround 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM₹200-₹400 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for their daily specials
  • Be prepared for bold, spicy flavors
Explore Nellore Beach and Mypad Beach
Explore Nellore Beach and Mypad Beach

Spend the late afternoon unwinding at Nellore Beach, a quiet stretch of sand perfect for a stroll. If you're up for it, drive a bit further to Mypad Beach, known for its cleaner shores and fewer crowds. The sunset here is stunning, with fishing boats dotting the horizon.

Nellore Beach (city center) and Mypad Beach (about 15 km away)4 PM to 6 PMFree
Tips:
  • Mypad Beach is less crowded and cleaner
  • Try fresh coconut water from local vendors

Must Try Foods

Gongura pachadi
Nellore Chepala Pulusu (fish curry)
Royyala Iguru (prawn fry)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Nellore Railway Station (city center, 0 km)
Nearest Bus Stop
Nellore RTC Bus Stand (frequent buses to Udayagiri and Mypad)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws are easily available; Ola/Uber operate in the city

Day 3

Hidden Gems of Nellore

A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and savoring local flavors in Nellore.

Activities

Morning at Penchalakona Forest
Morning at Penchalakona Forest

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Penchalakona Forest, a hidden gem about 60 km from Nellore. The forest is home to the beautiful Penchalakona Temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha. The drive through the lush greenery is refreshing, and the temple’s serene setting makes it a perfect morning escape. Don’t miss the small waterfall nearby if you visit during the monsoon.

Penchalakona Forest, near Rapur6:00 AM - 10:00 AM (best to avoid afternoon heat)Free (small donation at temple optional)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking
  • Carry water and snacks as options are limited
Lunch at Sri Sai Ram Tiffins

Head back to Nellore for a hearty lunch at Sri Sai Ram Tiffins, a local favorite known for its authentic Andhra-style meals. Their thali is a must-try, featuring a variety of curries, pickles, and fluffy rice. The place is simple but packed with locals, which speaks volumes about the quality of food.

Sri Sai Ram Tiffins, Near RTC Bus Stand, Nellore12:00 PM - 2:00 PM (peak hours, so arrive early)₹150-₹300 per person
Tips:
  • Try their Gongura pickle—it’s a local specialty
  • Cash-only, so carry small bills
Evening at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
Evening at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Spend your evening at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a stunning but often overlooked temple in Nellore. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple’s architecture is a blend of Chola and Vijayanagara styles. The peaceful atmosphere and intricate carvings make it a great place to unwind. Visit around sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Nellore4:00 PM - 6:00 PMFree
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
  • Check if any special evening rituals are happening

Must Try Foods

Pesarattu (green gram dosa)
Royyala Iguru (prawn curry)
Bobbatlu (sweet stuffed flatbread)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Nellore Railway Station (central location, cabs available)
Nearest Bus Stop
Nellore RTC Bus Stand (frequent buses to Penchalakona)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws easily available; Ola/Uber work well in the city

Travel Tips

Carry tissues - many authentic spots don't provide napkins
Ask for 'less spicy' if you're not used to Andhra heat levels
Visit the morning fish market near the port for incredibly fresh seafood

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