Araku Valley

Araku Valley, nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh, is a popular hill station renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine coffee plantations, and tribal villages. Here are some offbeat places you can visit in Araku Valley, apart from the usual tourist spots:

• Ananthagiri: This charming hill station, located around 30 km from Araku, offers stunning views of the valley and surrounding hills. You can enjoy trekking amidst coffee and pepper plantations, explore waterfalls, or visit the Tribal Museum to learn about the indigenous culture.

  

  Ananthagiri Araku Valley

• Tyda Falls: Nestled amidst dense forests, Tyda Falls is a series of three cascading waterfalls offering a refreshing escape. Trekking down to the base of the falls and taking a dip in the cool water is a rejuvenating experience.

• Sangda Falls: Another hidden gem, Sangda Falls is known for its serene beauty and natural pool. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing time in nature.

• Galikonda View Point: Offering panoramic views of the Araku Valley, Galikonda View Point is a great place to capture breathtaking sceneries. Enjoy the scenic beauty, especially during sunrise or sunset.

• Kotipla Reservoir: This scenic reservoir surrounded by hills is a popular spot for boating and fishing. You can also enjoy a peaceful time amidst nature.

• Bodbogor Waterfall: This secluded waterfall, surrounded by dense forests, is a perfect getaway for nature lovers. The trek to the waterfall is a bit challenging but the view is totally worth it.

• Dhimsa Dams: These are a series of three dams built across the Gosthani River, offering a scenic spot for picnicking and enjoying the beauty of the valley.

In addition to these offbeat destinations, here are some popular places you might want to include in your Araku Valley itinerary:

• Padmapuram Botanical Garden: Spread over 30 hectares, this beautiful garden houses a variety of indigenous and exotic plants, flowers, and herbal collections.

  

  Padmapuram Botanical Garden Araku Valley

• Tribal Museum, Araku Valley: This museum is a great place to learn about the rich culture and heritage of the Araku Valley tribes. It showcases their traditional way of life, artifacts, and handicrafts.

  

  Tribal Museum Araku Valley

• Katiki Waterfalls: These cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery are a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the beauty of nature.

  

  Katiki Waterfalls Araku Valley

• Borra Caves: Located about 90 km from Araku Valley, the Borra Caves are one of the largest natural caves in India. These fascinating limestone caves with unique speleothe formations are a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

  

  Borra Caves Araku Valley

• Tribal Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich tribal culture of Araku Valley at the Tribal Museum. The museum houses artifacts, traditional clothing, and tools used by the local tribal communities, offering a glimpse into their way of life.

  

  Tribal Museum Araku Valley

• Katiki Waterfalls: Perfect for a picnic or a refreshing escape, Katiki Waterfalls are a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by dense greenery. Take a dip in the natural pool, enjoy the scenic beauty, or embark on a short trek to explore the surrounding area.

  

  Katiki Waterfalls Araku Valley

• Padmapuram Gardens: Spread over 30 acres, Padmapuram Gardens is a haven for nature lovers. Explore the vast expanse of landscaped gardens, adorned with a variety of flowering plants, fountains, and walking paths.

  

  Padmapuram Gardens Araku Valley

• Tatimada Waterfalls (Anantagiri Waterfalls): Nestled amidst the Anantagiri hills, Tatimada Waterfalls is a cascading waterfall surrounded by thick forests. Hike up to the falls for stunning views or take a refreshing dip in the natural pool below.

These are just a few of the many sightseeing places Araku Valley has to offer. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventure activities, Araku Valley is a perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.