Araku Valley, a tranquil hill station situated 115 km away from Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, is often hailed as the "Ooty of Andhra Pradesh" due to its captivating beauty and pleasant weather. Nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats, the valley is renowned for its sprawling coffee plantations. The crystal-clear waterfalls, melodious birdsong resonating amidst lush greenery, and the delightful climate offer a unique and refreshing experience for urban dwellers seeking an escape.
Embarking on a train journey to Araku Valley unveils a memorable experience, as you traverse a picturesque landscape adorned with misty hills, charming tunnels, cascading waterfalls, and glistening streams, enhancing your voyage. Alternatively, a road trip through winding roads is equally enticing. The valley is home to tribal communities, and the Tribal Museum stands as a significant attraction, providing valuable insights into their culture and way of life.
Situated in the Ananthagiri hills of Araku Valley, the Araku Valley Borra Caves stand as one of the finest attractions. Among the largest caves in the country, these ancient caverns boast stalactite and stalagmite structures dating back millions of years. Perched at an elevation of 1,400 meters above sea level, the caves offer a mesmerizing experience to visitors. The formations within resemble various figures, including Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, a mother with a child, a crocodile, a human brain, and a tiger. A small temple built by the villagers adds to the cultural significance of the place.
The Tribal Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Araku Valley. As the valley is home to tribal communities belonging to the Araku tribes, this museum offers valuable insights into their tradition, culture, art, and craftsmanship. Located a stone's throw away from Araku Bus Stop, the museum aims to create awareness about tribal life and heritage. It showcases various artifacts made of clay, hunting tools, kitchen utensils, and tribal jewelry. Visitors can also explore and purchase authentic handmade tribal art at the handicraft stall in the museum.
Located just 15 km from Araku Valley, Chaparai Waterfalls is easily accessible by road. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for camping and swimming, making it a sought-after spot among the places to visit in Araku Valley. The waterfall is surrounded by breathtaking scenic beauty, creating an unparalleled experience for visitors. Indulge in the delightful street food available here, and don't miss out on trying the famous bamboo chicken, a must-try delicacy during your excursion to Chaparai Waterfalls. Treat yourself to freshly cooked kababs or bhutta (corn), accompanied by a piping hot cup of tea or coffee, as you immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of nature.
Katiki Waterfalls stands as one of the finest waterfalls in Araku Valley, derived its name from Katiki, which adds to its charm. Situated approximately 4 km away from Borra Caves, the waterfall boasts a height of around 50 ft. The mighty Gosthani River serves as its source, creating a picturesque setting with lush greenery and crystal-clear waters in its vicinity. This enchanting spot has become a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering numerous trekking opportunities that appeal to trek lovers seeking thrilling escapades amidst nature's beauty.
Originally established in 1942 to supply vegetables to soldiers during the Second World War, Padmapuram Botanical Garden has since transformed into a horticultural nursery cum training center. Plant enthusiasts will be delighted to find a collection of rare species of flowers and trees in the garden. The lush surroundings are adorned with tree houses and stone sculptures, adding to the charm of the place. You can also take a ride on the Araku Express toy train to explore the garden conveniently. Additionally, for a unique experience, you have the option to book tree-top houses, elevated 10 feet above the ground, allowing you to relish the picturesque views from your cottage. Nature lovers seeking places to visit in Araku Valley that cater to their interests should not miss this captivating spot.
Araku Valley is renowned for its expansive coffee plantations, and no trip to the places to visit in Araku Valley would be complete without indulging in some coffee shopping. Araku coffee, grown and processed organically by the Adivasis, has gained global recognition for its exquisite taste and aroma. Additionally, you'll find a delightful assortment of handmade chocolates in various flavors such as peanut butter, coffee biscuit, coconut, honeydew, and honey with almonds. Among them, the unique coffee-bean chocolates stand out, loved by both kids and adults, making them a perfect souvenir to take back home.
An essential experience to include in your Araku Valley itinerary is a visit to a strawberry farm. Plucking ripe strawberries and bringing them back is a popular activity in the valley, offering a sweet and memorable experience.
While exploring the mountains of Araku Valley, you'll be enthralled by captivating sightseeing opportunities and numerous outdoor activities. The tranquil ambiance of Araku Valley is sure to soothe your mind and offer a rejuvenating retreat amidst nature's beauty.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Araku Valley, here are some quick facts to keep in mind:
1. Araku Valley is a Hills & Mountains destination, offering picturesque landscapes and natural beauty.
2. The best time to visit Araku Valley is from September to February, which includes the months of September, October, November, December, January, and February. During this peak season, the weather remains pleasant throughout the day with cooler nights. However, expect a slightly higher number of tourists during this time.
3. The months of March, April, and May experience moderate weather in Araku Valley. If you prefer avoiding large crowds, this period might be a better option for your visit.
4. During the off-season, which is marked by heavy rainfall and occasional landslides, the weather can be unpredictable and less suitable for outdoor activities.
5. The moderate season offers pleasant weather with slightly higher temperatures, making it an attractive time to explore the valley.
6. If you enjoy bustling streets and local festivities, consider visiting during Itika Pongal and Visakha Utsav, which are celebrated in April and January, respectively.
How to Reach Araku Valley
Reaching the captivating places in Araku Valley is convenient, with options for roadways or train travel. The journey itself is a delightful experience, especially if you choose the roadways. Winding roads lead you to Araku Valley, allowing you to savor the scenic route. Located 115 km away from Vishakhapatnam, the valley can be reached in approximately 3 hours by train. For those preferring air travel, Vishakhapatnam Airport is the nearest, and from there, you can easily hire a cab to explore the alluring places in Araku Valley.
Andhra Pradesh
Vishakhapatnam
You'll find restaurants serving a variety of dishes, including North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, and Odiya cuisine. For a taste of local flavors, head to the small eateries and roadside stalls that serve delicious snacks. A must-try delicacy synonymous with Araku Valley is Bamboo Chicken (Bongulo Chicken). The aroma of bamboo chicken wafts through the meandering roads, enticing all tourists.
Araku Valley boasts pleasant weather all year round, making it an appealing destination for travelers. However, the best time to visit Araku Valley is between June to September.
