Matsyagundam
Large fish considered sacred gather in the deep pools of the stream, beside a Shiva temple. It is a lesser-known sacred site where tribal belief and nature meet.
Matsyagundam means 'fish pond.' It lies in the Matsya River valley near Hukumpeta, where the river forms deep pools among boulders. The pools hold many large fish that locals regard as sacred. Visitors may feed the fish but must not catch them. Nearby are a Shiva temple and a tribal legend about a struggle between a fish and a snake, and a grand tribal gathering is held during the annual Shivaratri festival. The trail requires climbing among rocks, so take care when the water is high in the rainy season. About 40 kilometers from Araku, Matsyagundam can be combined with Paderu and Vanjangi. Admission is free.
Opening hours
Daytime
Nearby sights
- Vanjangi Hills
- Chaparai Water Cascade
- Araku Coffee Museum
- Araku Tribal Museum
- Padmapuram Gardens
- Galikonda Viewpoint
- Vistadome Train & Shimiliguda Station
- Lambasingi