Markapur

Markapuram is headquarter of Markapuram district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a municipality and is the headquarters of Markapuram Municipality in Markapuram revenue division. Markapuram is notable for the Chennakesava Swamy Temple (2nd largest gopuram in Telugu States with 135 feet height), built by King Sri Krishnadevaraya. During Ratha Yatra (Tirunalla in Telugu) there occurs a popular carnival; the town is also famous for Chenna Kesavaswamy (Saptavahana Seva) on the day of Rathsapthami, which is attended by around 1 lakh+ people coming from different parts of the state. Markapuram was formerly a part of Kurnool District, serving as the east gate of Rayalaseema. The town is close to the Nallamala Hills and it is often transit hub to Srisailam. It currently has a population of approximately 1,00,000. Markapur Town's religious breakdown is 60% Hindu, 35% Muslim, and 5% Christian. Markapuram is known for slate manufacturing industries.