Explore Andhra Pradesh, the ‘Kohinoor of India’! know everything from places to visit to delicacies to taste. Here’s everything a traveller must know about the state.
Andhra Pradesh, a state on the southern coast of India, is a hub of potential tourism offering history, culture, geography, and food. Tourism is one of the key sectors the state relies on and it has got a lot to cater to tourists. Whether one has an interest in historical sites, exploring nature, enjoying the seaside, or savouring exotic food, Andhra Pradesh is quite an offbeat destination waiting to be explored. Now, let’s dig deeper into the beauty of this state and learn about its stunning sightseeing, the combination of experiences to consider, and the most delicious tastes.
History of Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh boasts of its long civilization history which originated thousands of years ago from the Satavahana and Vijayanagara dynasties. The state has had its share of rulers starting from the Cholas right from the regimes of the Mughals whose successes have left imprints in the form of art, architecture, food etc. Moreover, it has many temples, forts and archaeological sites and few of them are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Best Tourist Attractions in Andhra Pradesh
1. Visakhapatnam (Vizag)
‘The city of destiny’, Vizag is also known for its tourism attractions which include beautiful beaches, green hills and historical sites. It is indeed a perfect holiday destination. Add Rishikonda Beach and Kailasagiri Hill Park to your must-visit list. Similarly, you must consider visiting the Submarine Museum, and to make yourself connected with nature and serenity, Araku Valley is a beautiful hill station in Andhra Pradesh. There is a perception about this place, but in reality, it is way more than just coffee plantations and waterfalls.
2. Tirupati
With the state emblem Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati truly is one of the holiest cities in India attracting thousands of devotees every year. Moreover, being a famous temple, this place holds a belief of the devotees visiting from different parts of the country and even across the globe just to get the benign look of holy Lord Venkateswara.
3. Amaravati
The first and current capital of Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati is a perfect offbeat destination offering both historical as well as modern destinations one can visit. The Amaravati Stupa is for the archaeological wonder. In addition, in the same regard, new state buildings exemplifying modern architecture are also very appealing.
4. Vijayawada
Vijayawada is a great and vibrant city filled with cultural and enchanting environmental endowments. Kanaka Durga Temple is worth visiting in this city. Additionally, the Prakasam Barrage and the Undavalli Caves along with many rock-cut caves with wonderful paintings on the walls are another great destination to add to your travel checklist.
5. Lepakshi
Here is another vibrant destination to include on your list. Lepakshi is another offbeat destination to explore. This place is home to the ancient Veerabhadra Temple. This appealing temple is well known for its intricate Vijayanagara-style architecture. Moreover, a massive monolithic Nandi bull statue is worth visiting too.
6. Gandikota
Famous as the “Grand Canyon of India,” this place is a natural wonder. Made up of stunning red sandstone gorges and offering scenic views of the Penna River, Gandikota is actually a paradise for adventure seekers and photographers.
7. Horsley Hills
A beautiful place enveloped by a mantle of green hills, Horsley Hills provides the one kind of climate much needed today, the healthy climate that this world needs. With mesmerizing views and a serene environment, these hills are soaring high and beautiful.
8. Srikalahasti
Srikalahasti is located in the southern part of Andhra Pradesh and is aptly known as truly Dakshina Kasir because of the temple of Lord Shiva, Srikalahasti Temple. Dive inside the devotion this destination offers you.
9. Papikondalu
Moreover, tourists can go boating on the Godavari River through the riverside district; passing through the Papikondalu Hills provides breathtaking views of hills, forests, backwaters etc.
10. Kurnool
This historical city includes Konda Reddy Fort and the second longest cave system in India that is Belum Caves with outstanding fascinating features of stalactites and stalagmites.
Must-do activities in Andhra Pradesh
Temple Tours: Might it be Tirupati’s Venkateswara Temple, the Srikalahasti Temple, the Mundrika Kataksham Temple or the Srisailam Temple in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh has many famous temples sitting there waiting for the devotees to witness the magic they offer.
Beach Hopping: A number of beaches are found along the Andhra Pradesh coast which are Rishikonda, Bheemunipatnam and Yarada Beach, each of which provides a distinct view of the beach and calm environment.
Cave Exploration: Visit Belum Caves or Borra Caves in Araku Valley as they are an example of natural creation that dates back to thousands of years ago.
Araku Valley Coffee Plantation Tour: Learn the techniques of making coffee at Araku Valley. Sit and sip coffee in a natural environment with natural beauty all around you.
Wildlife Safari: The state houses numerous sanctuaries and national parks like Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarjunasagar, and Srisailam Tiger Reserve for a sight of the biological heritage.
Water Adventures: Lastly, the adventures include those as exciting as Rishikonda Beach Jet Skiing and the Godavari River Boating for water sports enthusiasts.
Andhra Pradesh’s Cuisine to Taste
Food is undeniably the essence of the state, of Andhra Pradesh and is as colourful and rich as the culture of the region. Here are some best dishes to try:
Pulihora
Pulihora is a tamarind rice delicacy classic of Andhra that is prepared and consumed during the festive season and occasions.
Gongura Pachadi
Prepared from the sour Gongura leaf, which is a popular side dish in Andhra Pradesh. It goes well with rice and curries kind of meals making it a relish among most people.
Andhra-Style Chicken Curry
Andhra chicken curry has a hot and tangy factor and is prepared with different spices that make it taste different. It is best relished with steamed rice or genuine Indian bread known as roti.
Bobbatlu (Puran Poli)
Sakra: This special sweet flattened round bread filled with boiled jaggery and lentils is famous during festivity.
Kodi Kura
It is a spicy chicken curry dish that is made from rice and a combination of spices and coconut chillies.
best time to explore Andhra Pradesh
The best time for travellers to spend some quality time in Andhra Pradesh is between the months of October and March. During this time, the climate is comfy in all aspects and not too tropical. In addition, during these months, the climate is mild and agreeable, best for exploring significant landmarks. Summer is quite hot, especially in the interiors and the monsoon season starts in June and lasts till the end of September.
Things to Buy in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh truly offers a variety of unique handicrafts and souvenirs that make perfect keepsakes:
Kondapalli Toys
Produced from softwood and decorated with brilliant paint, these products are typically carved in Kondapalli – a small village near the city of Vijayawada.
Kalamkari Fabrics
It is an old technique that is done by either hand painting or block painting on fabrics, the outcome is bales of saris, scarves and hangings for the walls.
Lepakshi Handicrafts
The handicrafts of Lepakshi like filigree brassware, wooden carved work etc. are a few of the best items to buy in Andhra Pradesh.
Araku Valley Coffee
Get some coffee from the freshly ground organic Araku Valley coffee plantation that has a strong aroma and pleasant taste.
Bidriware
The Bidri metal craft is an art form of traditional metalwork. Additionally, it is done using silver in blackened alloy and is famous for products such as trays, vases and jewellery.
Major events of Andhra Pradesh
Here are the famous celebrations you can be a part of in this city:
Ugadi: The Telugu New Year also known as Ugadi is another festival happily welcomed across the state.
Sankranti: A grain festival followed by the flying of kites, folk dancing, and eating is a treat to witness here.
Travel Tips to Follow
Language: Being a tourist, you must know English or Telugu to communicate fluently with the locals, some people might also communicate in Hindi.
Local Transport: Andhra Pradesh has a great connectivity of roadways, railways and taxi services. Employing the service of a local guide is also useful when it comes to getting around to the historic sites.
Clothing: For the summer season, light cotton dresses are good while for winter light woollens will suffice. When in temples, dress appropriately so as not to offend the traditions of the places you are in.
Currency: Currency commonly used in the state includes the Indian Rupee (INR).
Thus, it can be aptly said that Andhra Pradesh is an enjoyable world in itself containing opposing extremes. This state is a trove of stunning beach and mountain retreats, holy shrines and metropolises that you can explore. It offers cuisines that taste amazing and places that will help you make lifetime memories. Whether you are in search of peace, spirituality, nature, or delicious delicacies, Andhra Pradesh caters to everyone’s needs. So, get your backpacks, and be ready to experience something that is both magical and modern.