Kotturu Dhanadibbalu, Buddhist mound and monument in Vishakapatnam district, India.
Kotturu Dhanadibbalu is a Buddhist site near Kotturu village in Rambilli mandal, Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh, on a forested hill by the Sarada River. A Maha Stupa stands at the hillock's entrance, with small rock cisterns nearby; further up are ruined vihara mounds with scattered bricks and rock-cut caves in about five sections, locally called Pandavula Guha.
The hillock's Maha Stupa, vihara mounds and rock-cut caves were used by Buddhist monks between the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD. Excavation of the viharas and minor edicts is still pending with the archaeology department. The site is a Monument of National Importance.
The five rock-cut cave sections show how Buddhist monks lived and practiced their faith in this region. The spaces were designed as places for daily life and meditation within a monastic community.
The site is located about 8 kilometers from Yelamanchili town and features protective fencing with informational signs. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and exploring the caves involves climbing and scrambling over rock surfaces.
Small rock cisterns remain visible near the Maha Stupa entrance and held water for the monks. Scattered ancient bricks mark where other monastery buildings once stood, revealing the practical infrastructure of daily life.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 93,083 contributors worldwide.