Araku Valley

Araku valley has a lot to offer to its tourists. Some of its must visit places include –

1. Borra caves: A visit to araku caves is incomplete without visiting the ancient borra caves. These million year old limestone caves are evidently the deepest caves in the country. Situated at an elevation of 1400 m, these caves are bound to mesmerize the visitors with its historical and archaeological splendour.

2. Dubriguda waterfalls: A fifteen kilometre drive from araku valley will lead you to these stunning waterfalls where you would be welcomed by fresh breeze and striking views. The waterfalls have massive natural rock formations with milky water streams flowing gently through the valley.

3. Aruka valley coffee museum: A paradise for all coffee enthusiasts; it is a small museum located inside the araku valley coffee house where the origin of coffee in east Africa and it’s cultivation in the araku valley are explained. Don’t forget to collect its amazing coffee beans and assorted coffee based chocolates on your way back home.

4. Ananthagiri hill station: Situated between vizag and araku valley, ananthagiri is a pristine hill station which offers a picture perfect view of the araku valley. It has numerous waterfalls with a striking view of the valley on one side and coffee estates on the other. Enjoy the picturesque sights like the dense forests, the sunrise and sunsets and colossal mountains along with a warm cup of coffee.

5. Tribal museum: This museum is a treat for all those people who have a thirst for discovering new traditions and cultures, and then this is the perfect place for you. This museum has extensive exhibits of the tribal people of eastern Andhra Pradesh which includes models of village panchayats, agricultural activities, village ceremonies, and many other scenes. The drawings and artwork of the tribal people here adorn the museum’s walls.

6. Araku valley coffee house: Araku valley has a special bond with coffee. The refreshing aroma of the special coffee here entices coffee lovers from all over the world. It is a sin to not visit this place on your trip to the Araku valley. You can sample and buy local coffee and chocolate goods here, which also houses a tiny coffee museum.

7. Vasundhara restaurant: Probably the most famous eatery in the valley, vasundhara restaurant is the perfect place to gorge on the local delicacies of the araku valley especially the bamboo chicken. You can also try some mouth-watering veg dishes like the famous Andhra thali.

8. Katiki waterfalls: Katiki waterfalls originates from river gosthani and is at a short distance from the barro caves. This aesthetic waterfall is at a height of about 50 feet and the water cascades down in a pond. It is believed to be named after the mythological figure kaitki.

Trekking: Araku valley is the perfect place for all the travel and adventure junkies. It is considered one of the top trekking destinations in Andhra Pradesh.  You will love to hike and explore the colossal mountains of the valley. You can indulge in early morning treks and can even join some of the trekking camps being held there.

Shopping: Bring out the shopaholic in you with a visit to the Araku adivasi arts and crafts centre. Located between the coffee house and the bus station, this tribal and crafts centre is a very famous shopping hub.  Spoil yourself with the vast selection of local tribal jewellery, jute bags and ornaments made from brass and wrought iron.

Camping: If you are a wildlife explorer and love camping, then you ought to visit the tyda nature park. There are log huts and tents being set up for tourists for a great camping experience.  You can also enjoy many other activities here including rock climbing, trekking, bird watching, and bow arrow shooting.

By Train: There are trains available from Visakhapatnam to Araku valley. Trains are probably the best option to travel to the valley as you will get to witness the mesmeric scenery, the stunning Eastern Ghats and the sparkling waterfalls enroute. Also, you will be passing from approximately 65 tunnels which would be a unique experience altogether.

By Bus: There are bus services available from Visakhapatnam which is approximately 129 km from Araku valley. It is also connected to other small towns and cities of south India by a smooth road network.

By Air: Being a hill station, Araku valley is devoid of an airport. However, Visakhapatnam has an international airport which has well connected flights from various metro cities of India like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Bangalore. You can then hire a private taxi or cab directly from the airport for the valley.

Finding good accommodation in Araku valley is not much of a challenging task. It comprises a number of resorts, lodges and inns. These are some of the places where you can have a decent stay without burning a hole in your pocket. Some of them include –

Haritha valley resort: Outed as one of the best resorts in araku valley, this resort is a perfect culmination of greenery and fine infrastructure. It is also close to many attractions like the Borra Caves, Katika Waterfalls, and Tyda Park.

Ananthagiri haritha hill resort: Engulfed by scenic meadows and loft mountains, it is a budget friendly and convenient option suitable  for those who are planning to have an extensive and carefree vacation.

Punnami yatri niwas: Fashioned by the beach side, punami offers modern amenities at affordable rates for its visitors. it offers services like car parking, car rental, doctor on call etc. The hotel also offers a snack bar where guests can unwind for a drink and relax.