Nestled in the lap of the lushly forested Eastern Ghats; araku valley is an unexplored jewel situated in the north eastern corner of Andhra Pradesh. Located at about 1,200 above sea level, Araku valley is a frieze of earth. It is fondly known as the ooty of Andhra Pradesh, owing to its quaintness and unmatchable beauty. The valley is renowned for its delectable coffee, exquisite green countryside and rich tribal culture.
Blessed with dazzling waterfalls, dense green forests, sprawling coffee plantations and astounding climate, Araku valley has been a prominent tourist destination for quite some time now. Situated 120km away from Visakhapatnam, this picturesque valley offers peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The charisma attached to this place has been successful in luring tourists from around the globe.
Araku has several fascinating sites to explore, including the caves of Borra, Tyda, Katiki Falls, Tribal Museum & Padmapuram Botanical Gardens. Besides, such areas, coffee plantations are a must- for those who want to indulge themselves in the richest flavors of coffee. The valley also boasts of growing the first sustainable coffee brand by Indian tribal farmers. Araku doesn't disappoint adventure enthusiasts either because it's a popular trekking spot drawing adventure enthusiasts from all over the world.
The valley enjoys a pleasant climate all year long, with days being warm and nights cool and crispy.The year starts with the winter season and slowly progresses towards a somewhat tougher summer season. The mid-time of the year is for monsoons and finally, the year ends with the winter season. This is why the location is a must-see when you're considering a ride to Vizag.
People Also Ask About Araku Valley
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What is there to see in 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. -
What are the best things to do in Araku valley?
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. -
What is special about Araku Valley?
Araku valley is all things exceptional, be it's exquisite coffee plantations, rich biodiversity, wonderful climate or striking landscapes. The valley doesn't fail to charm you. -
How far is it from Vizag?
Araku valley is located approximately 120 kms away from Vizag. You can either board a train or a bus or you can hire a private taxi from Vizag.
You will get to witness the gorgeous countryside your way to the place. -
How do I get to Araku Valley?
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. -
Which are the best places to stay in Araku 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.
Araku Valley Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Araku Valley
One of the places to visit in Araku Valley is the Coffee Museum. In 1930, a migrant by name Prakash Rao had set up a catering service for tourists to highlight the uniqueness of the Arabica Coffee. In 1954, he started a Coffee house, which catered to foreign delegates and coffee traders. However, it is now open to all. The museum manned by educated tribal staff showcase a series of pictures detailing the origin and history of coffee. They market 60 varieties of coffees and an array of 600 coffee-chocolates. Visitors can satiate their hunger and appease their craving by indulging in delicacies such as chocolates, sandwiches, brownies, mousses, tarts, etc and savor stimulating coffees.Location: Visakhapatnam Road, Araku, Andhra Pradesh.Price: Entry Fee is Rs. 10 per person.Timing: Monday-Sunday from 09:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Padmapuram Gardens is one of the prominent places to visit in Araku Valley. It was built in 1942 for growing and supplying vegetables to World War II soldiers. Later it was converted into a Horticultural Nursery cum training center. The 26-acre nursery comprises orchards, a colorful riot of flowers, a fabulous rose garden, exotic plants, trees like eucalyptus, pine, etc. The striking feature of the Padmapuram Botanical Gardens is the tree-top huts. Also known as hanging cottages, they are 10 ft above the ground level and have attached toilets and continuous water supply. Visitors can stay & experience the thrill of swaying in the air when a heavy wind blows across. This Garden also features a toy train by name Araku Express. Araku Express takes adults (Rs. 20) and children (Rs. 10) on the tour of the whole botanical garden.Location: Padmapuram village, ITDA Paderu, Araku, Andhra Pradesh.Price: Entry Charges Rs. 10 per personTiming: Monday- Sunday (8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. & 2:00 pm -6 p.m.)Best Time to Visit: Winters and post-monsoon periods are the most suitable time to visit the Padmapuram Gardens.
It is one of the acclaimed places to visit in Araku Valley. Araku Tribal Museum is located in the small town of Araku, around 110 km of Visakhapatnam. Unlike other museums, which house historical items, the Tribal Museum showcases the artifacts from tribal life. The 2 storey Tribal building is built using the traditional indigenous materials such as mud, metals, etc and showcases native tribal architecture in the form of colors, motifs, and frames used. The first floor of the red-colored rotund structure displays dioramas depicting tribal lifestyle, day-to-day kitchen utensils made of iron and mud, musical instruments, and wall paintings of market scenes and clay pottery. It exhibits local tribal dances of Mayur and Dhimsa from a range of festivals and life-sized figurines wearing vibrant clothing with matching accessories. The walls adorn the masks, and exotic artifacts belonging to the Tribal culture of Eastern Ghats. The second floor houses a souvenir shop and the Tribal Arts and Craft center. The center also houses 10 double rooms, public conveniences, and a cafeteria.Location: Araku, Andhra Pradesh, IndiaPrice: Entry Charges – Adults- Rs. 40, Kids – Rs.20.Timing: 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.Best Time to Visit: October: March is considered the best time to visit Araku Tribal Museum, though the climate throughout the year remains pleasant and balmy.
Galikonda View Point is the uppermost point of the Visakhapatnam district. Visitors can enjoy the bird’s view of the lush green valleys, rivers and streams, railway tracks, hillocks, and buildings. Galikonda is the second highest mountain in the Eastern Ghats. It is 4320 ft above the sea level. It lies on the route between Borra Caves and Araku Valley. It is one of the places to visit in Araku Valley.Location: Araku, Visakhapatnam, Andhra PradeshTiming: Open 24 hours every dayBest Time to Visit: Aruku enjoys a mild tropical climate throughout the year. Visitors can visit the place any time of the year but the most ideal season is during winter.
Katiki Waterfalls is located in Katiki village, near Borra Caves. Visitors need to travel and trek to reach the base of the waterfalls. Shared Jeeps safaris will take visitors from Gatevalsa to the railway track, which is 7 km afar. From the railway track, the visitors need to trek 1- 2 km to reach the base of the Waterfall. The whole Journey is adventurous as the road will be bumpy and the trek thrilling through the narrow slippery path. Katiki Waterfall, which originates from the Gosthani River, falls from a height of more than 100 ft. The dense green vegetation all around the gushing white silvery Waterfall lends enchantment to the viewers. The moisture or water droplets that arise from the fall add a sense of romanticism to the surroundings. The pristine white waters allure visitors to take a shower and soak in the atmosphere. The hot and spicy bamboo chicken by locals leave visitors smacking their lips. Visitors can buy organic honey from the tribes.Location: Katiki Waterfalls Rd, Tummikapalle, Andhra Pradesh, India. Timing: Open 7 days a week from 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.Best Time to Visit: The monsoon season brings more rainwater and doubles up the quantity and force of the falls adding charm to the surroundings. So, it is most preferable to visit after the monsoon season. While the winters are also suitable, the stream tends to shrink a lot in summers.
Ananthagiri Waterfalls is located on the Eastern Ghats, about 60 km from the Visakhapatnam. It is 30 km from Araku Valley and 3 km from Ananthagiri Town. The thick rainforests, lush green coffee plantations, rolling hills, deep ravines, and swirling waterfalls will sweep the visitors off their feet. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and honeymooners to enjoy the spectacular Sunrise and Sunset and get lost in the all-pervading beauty of nature. The waterfall is at a distance of 1 -2 km from the main road connecting the Araku Valley and Ananthagiri Town. Visitors can walk from the main road and reach the Waterfalls in 20 minutes. Location: Ananthagiri Town, Vizag district, Andhra Pradesh.Price: No entry FeesTiming: It is open on all days of the week between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.Best Time to Visit: The most suitable time to visit Ananthagiri Waterfalls is after the monsoon period. The streams inundated with rainwater flow at full force and present a panoramic vista. Visitors also prefer to visit the place during winter.
Chaparai Water Cascade is situated on the Paderu-Araku road, about 15 km from Araku Valley. Though the place is not a waterfall in its strict sense, the slanting surfaces of the hillocks make water glide over them and flow as a continuous stream over the massive rock formations. The lush greenery, thick forest cover, and hills in the background add beauty to the place. The ankle-deep gushing water entices families to get in and indulge in splashing waters over each other or enjoy swimming. However, visitors should take care of the depth of the water and the slippery nature of the rocks. Tourists can enjoy the delicious “Bamboo Chicken” prepared by the locals and also participate in their traditional dance.Location: on Paderu- Araku Road, Visakhapatnam.Price: Entry Fees Rs. 10Timing: Monday -Sundays between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.Best Time to Visit: Though visitors can visit the place round the year, the most preferred time to visit Chaparai Water Cascade is immediately after the rainy season. The water flow will be more after the monsoons and people can enjoy swimming and sliding. The cascading waters will be less during summers. People visit it during winters too.
Sangda Waterfalls, situated in the Eastern Ghats near the Sangda village, is one of the places to see in Araku Valley. The cascading milky white waters against the backdrop of the verdant vegetation on surrounding mountain ranges present an inexplicable experience. It is a gateway to millennials, accustomed to sound and air pollution, to enjoy the quietude and pristine atmosphere. The falls are a favorite tourist place to nature lovers, families, and honeymooners. Location: Sangda village, Araku, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.Timing: Open 24 /7 Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Sangda Waterfalls is, post rainy season. The streams overflow as a result of rains and feed the waterfalls, thus increasing the width and volume of the waterfall. The gushing waters from height present a visual treat to the visitors. Tourists visit during winters too. Summer is not suitable as the water dries up and does not present a beautiful sight.
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