South India, home to breathtaking beaches, enthralling temples, and charming hill towns, has countless undiscovered treasures that showcase the country’s rich cultural history and age-old customs. And Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh’s centre is undoubtedly one of the world’s most unspoiled and unknown locations.
Araku Valley is one of the most amazing holiday locations in the state of Andhra Pradesh and has yet to be fully discovered. The peaceful surroundings not only quiet your spirit but also provide joy to your inner self.
How to reach Araku Valley?
By air: The nearest airport to Araku Valley is located in the city of Visakhapatnam, which is 115 km away.
By train: Araku Valley is served by two railway stations. Both are located in the Araku Valley on the east coast line from Visakhapatnam.
By road: Araku Valley can be reached by bus from Visakhapatnam (125 kilometres).
Marvellous places to visit in Araku Valley
Araku Valley, surrounded by towering mountains, lush green trees, misty clouds, and a pleasant atmosphere, is the ideal getaway for people who are sick of leading a routine existence. Check out this list of Araku tourist places.
Chaparai Waterfalls
Chaparai Waterfalls is one of the most breathtaking sites to visit in Araku Valley. The falls, around five kilometres from the valley, is the perfect destination for those who want to have a great day with friends and family. This is one of Araku’s top tourist destinations and is 15 km from the town.
Timings: 8 am – 6 pm
Ananthagiri Hills
Ananthagiri Hills, a little hill station tucked between Araku and Vizag, is 26 kilometres from Araku Valley. One will discover coffee plantations and waterfalls in one of Andhra Pradesh’s most stunning and significant hill stations, and they look just incredible together. The site is amongst the best attractions of Araku Valley tourism.
Source: Pinterest
Padmapuram Botanical Garden
The Padmapuram Botanical Garden, one of Araku Valley’s most important historical sites, is home to some of the most unusual flora that is difficult to find elsewhere. Not only that, but also this is where the soldiers received their vegetable supply during World War II. Eventually, the area was transformed into a whole botanical garden with lovely tree cabins.
Timings: 8:30 AM-6 PM
Entry Fees: Rs 40
Ananthagiri Waterfalls
The simplest approach to enjoying what nature offers in this location is by trekking to the falls, also known locally as Ananthagiri Waterfalls. A spectacular vista is created by the waves dashing from 100 feet above, which also calms the spirit. Even though the water is a little unclean, one can swim in it.
Timings: 9 AM-5 PM
Matsyagundam
Near Paderu, at a place commonly referred to as “the fish pool,” is a century-old temple called Sri Matsyalingeshwara Swamy Temple that is home to a variety of fish. The place has a lot of potential for tourism and is surrounded by some fascinating legends.
The Mother Fish is said to have saved all the fish and brought them here after a fierce battle between the Singarajulu (snakes) and the Matsyarajulu (fish) in a location called Gemmili. The hamlet was afterwards given the name Matsya Gundam. Due to this superstition, the locals haven’t killed or eaten fish up to this point.
Source: Pinterest
Bheemili Beach
At the source of the River Gosthani, Bheemunipatnam is where Bheemili Beach is situated in Araku Valley. Here, a fort and cemetery may still be seen as remnants of Dutch and British colonies from the 17th century. A lighthouse and a small dock are key features of the stunning Bheemli beach.
On the Visakhapatnam-Bheemili beach route, a beach park has recently been constructed as a tourist destination. Water activities are available at this beautiful beach. Both East India Companies had their commercial ports here throughout the colonial era.
Source: Pinterest
Araku Tribal Museum
The Araku Tribal Museum, which was established by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation in 1996, showcases the tribal culture of Andhra Pradesh. The museum offers a glimpse into what traditional tribal lifestyles were like through kitchenware, jewellery, hunting gear, and wedding photos.
The museum, which is not historically significant but is about 200 metres from the Araku bus station, was built to educate visitors about tribal lifestyles by displaying the way of life of roughly 19 local tribes. Local Mayur and Dhimsa dances are displayed in one of the museum’s sections, where tribal artworks cover the walls.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fees: Rs 40
Borra Caves
The Borra Caverns are the biggest caves in the nation and are situated at the height of around 705 metres, making it one of the greatest experiences to have when visiting Araku Valley. These limestone karst caves, dating to 1807, look stunning when lit by a natural skylight.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fees: Rs 40
Source: Pinterest
FAQs
What makes Araku Valley unique?
Araku Valley, situated in the lovely eastern ghats, is renowned for its picturesque splendour, verdant valleys, stunning waterfalls, and sparkling streams. The picturesque Araku Valley offers a rejuvenating retreat for visitors staying in adjacent towns.
Which season is ideal for visiting Araku Valley?
The ideal time to visit Araku Valley is from December to February.
Where are the Ananthagiri Hills located?
One of the most fabulous hill resorts close to Hyderabad is Ananthagiri Hills, located in Vikarabad and 26 km away from Araku Valley.