Andhra Pradesh
-The Essence of Incredible India
South India is a world in its own. Ancient temples, magnificent palaces, rich culture, and the colourful folklore represents the rich heritage of our country.
One of the states in south India, Andhra Pradesh represents a part of our beautiful south India.
It shares borders with Telangana and Chattisgarh on the north, Tamil Nadu on the south, and the Bay of Bengal on the east. If you too wish to explore the gems of South India, Andhra Pradesh is a place where you should head to.
History of Andhra Pradesh:
The first Indian state primarily formed on linguistic basis was Andhra Pradesh. It was separated from the Madras Presidency in the year 1953.
Pre-independence Andhra Pradesh was home to many great dynasties such as the Pallava dynasty, Kakatiya dynasty, and the Chalukya Chola dynasty.
With the invasion of the Qutub shahis from the western regions, Andhra Pradesh was under the control of Shah Alam. However, upon the arrival of the Europeans, the ultimate power was in the hands of the East India Company.
The modern Andhra Pradesh consists of major metropolitan cities of India such as Hyderabad and Vishakapatnam and is also plays an important role in the trade routes towards East Asia.
In the year 2014, the Lok Sabha of India approved the formation of Telangana from ten districts on Andhra Pradesh with a common capital as Hyderabad.
Popular Languages of Andhra Pradesh:
The official language of this state is Telugu
Capital of Andhra Pradesh:
The capital of Andhra Pradesh is Amravathi.
Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh:
Mr. Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy
Governor of Andhra Pradesh:
Mr. Biswabhushan Harichandan
The High Court of Andhra Pradesh:
The high court of Andhra Pradesh is located in Amravathi.
Andhra Pradesh on Map:
Andhra Pradesh Tourism
Ranging from chilly hill stations that allow you to escape the scorching summer heat to serene lakes and national parks that let you take a peek inside the wildlife, Andhra Pradesh has a lot to offer.
We bring to you top places to visit in Andhra Pradesh to make your visit a memorable one.
50 Best Places To Visit In Andhra Pradesh:
1. Horsely hills:
Located at a height of 4312 meters above sea level, Horsely hills lie near the southwestern border of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
Its gorgeous landscapes and a heartwarming climate makes Horsely hills the ‘Ooty of Andhra’.
This place is also the home to the world’s largest Banyan tree spanning across an area of 8 acres and the oldest living eucalyptus tree which is said to have been in existence for the past 148 years.
2. Araku Valley:
Located 120 kilometres away from Vishakapatnam, Araku valley is an unexplored yet an amazing place if you’re looking for a weekend getaway.
Famous for its aromatic coffee that leaves you craving for another cup, make sure you enjoy the exhilarating trekking experience at the breathtaking sights of Araku hills.
3. Borra caves (Near Araku Valley):
Formed as a result of the flow of Gosthani River on the limestone deposits, Borra caves are known for its captivating stalactite and stalagmite formations like that of Shiva-Parvathi, Rishi’s beard, crocodile and much more.
4. Lambasingi:
A small village nestled in the Chintapalli Mandal in the forested Araku valley, Lambasingi is also called the ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’ due to a bit of snowfall every year.
With an altitude of 1025 meters above sea level, this village is worth visiting for it offers soothing views like that of Thajangi reservoirs, tea, and coffee plantations, cascading Kothapalli waterfalls, and the divine Annavaram temple to name a few.
5. Tirumala hills:
Located at a height of 3200 feet above sea level, Tirumala is surrounded by the seven hills of the Seshachalam range.
Silathoraman, a natural arch is a geological wonder found in Tirumala hills, which can be sighted at a distance of one kilometre from the Tirumala Venkateshwara temple.
6. Ananthagiri hills (Near Araku Valley):
A serene retreat 90 kilometres away from Hyderabad city, Ananthagiri hills is a hill town of old caves and exhilarating trekking trails amidst the Eastern Ghats.
If mountains are your calling, be sure to visit this small yet serene abode during winters to have an enthralling experience.
7. Papi Kondalu:
Running along river Godavari, Papi Kondalu mountain range possesses sheer natural beauty. It was initially named ‘papidi’ kondalu in Telugu, due to its resemblance to the middle partition of a woman’s hair.
However, later it was locally called as Papi Kondalu. These hills allow you to immerse in the local culture as well as offer a divine retreat in its beautiful temples.
8. Adilabad:
Earlier known as Edulapuram, Adilabad is a perfect place for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. Once a part of great dynasties such as the Mauryas and Chalukyas, Adilabad today is a haven of ancient relics amidst gurgling waterfalls and misty climate.
With a plethora of ancient structures and temples, Adilabad is also rich in flora and fauna which is a sight for sore eyes.
9. Nagalpuram, Tirupati:
Famously known as Nagala hills, Nagalpuram was built by King Krishna Deva Raya, the ruler of Vijayanagar.
Hidden behind the lush green forest, Nagalpuram is an unexplored dense forest where you’ll find water bodies and rivers meandering through the forest, birds perched on tree’s branches and animals like deers, bears, and monkeys ensuring an adventurous experience.
10. Vijaywada:
Known as the ‘Place of Victory’, Vijaywada has settled on the banks of river Krishna and is the second-largest populated city in Andhra Pradesh.
As the commercial and media hub of Andhra Pradesh, this city reflects its olds old as well as the modern world through places like Bhavani island, Victoria museum, Hazrat mosque, Undavalli caves to name a few.
11. Bhavani island (Near Vijaywada):
Located amidst river Krishna in Vijaywada, Bhavani Island is a perfect place for a relaxing weekend.
With water sports like kayaking and parasailing on the beachside and the lush greenery of the island, take a weekend trip to this gorgeous abode to unwind from your daily hustle.
12. Kurnool:
Holding immense historical value, Kurnool is also known Gateway of Rayalaseema. The city is said to have been established over 2000 years ago.
The Belum caves and the Ketavaram rock paintings are must-visit as they belong to the Paleolithic era.
13. Belum caves (Near Kurnool):
The largest and the longest cave system formed over the years on the Indian subcontinent are Belum caves.
Belum caves are known for their rich stalactites and stalagmite formations in the Saptasvarala Guha which produce musical sound when struck by a wooden stick or knuckles.
Being an abode of Jain and Buddhist monks, these caves hold immense historical importance.
14. Orvakullu (Near Kurnool):
Orvakullu rock garden is a garden spanning across 1000 acres of land comprising of sculptures made out of ancient caves and ingenious rock formations.
It is about 20 kilometers from Kurnool. It is a famous location for film shoots where acclaimed movies like Bahubali have been shot.
15. Nellore:
Settled at the banks of Penna River, Nellore district is famous for its paddy fields and hence got its name from ‘Nelli’- Tamil equivalent for paddy.
It is bounded by the Bay of Bengal on the east and has serene beaches apt for a relaxing evening.
16. Guntur:
Famous for its largest chilli yard in Asia, Guntur is also known as the land of chillies. The city that houses the famous Buddhist town Nagajurnasagar, Guntur is a perfect place for a day outing.
For the history buff and the nature lover in you, some amazing places to visit in Guntur are the Nagajurna Dam, Uppalpadu nature conservation, and the lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Mangalgiri.
17. Nagarjunakonda:
A Buddhist pilgrimage town established nearly 1800 years ago, Nagajurnakonda is 150 kilometres away from Hyderabad near the Nagarjuna Sagar reservoir.
It is said that Buddhist monk Nagajurna, after whom the place is named used to live and preach his teachings during ancient times, making this place an important pilgrimage site for Buddhist scholars.
An archaeological site that lets you relive the history, make sure you visit the Nagajurnakonda caves, Dhamma Nagajunna and the Nagarjunakonda dam when you visit this place
18. Machlipatnam:
Also known as Masaulipatnam, this port town was one of the first places where the British claimed power during the colonial period.
Along with British, other European powers like the French, Dutch, and the Portuguese also established their centers at Machlipatnam and flourishing the sea trade through this route.
Machlipatnam has a variety of beaches and historical ruins that let us immerse in the beauty and leave us awe-inspired.
19. Vishakhapatnam:
Popularly known as Vizag, Visakhapatnam is one of the major port cities in India. Known for its picturesque beaches, serene atmosphere, and its historic value Vishakapatnam is very well connected to major cities in India. One of the famous beaches in Vishakapatnam is Yarada beach, surrounded by lofty hills one side, and the Bay of Bengal on the other. Unlike other beaches, Yarada beach is a lot cleaner and less crowded allowing you to relax and bask in the warmth of sunrise and sunsets.
20. Ramakrishna Beach:
Located on the coastline of the Bay of Bengal in Vishakapatnam, Ramakrishna beach is the most visited beaches in Vizag. The serene waters and the alluring atmosphere at this beach offer a wonderful view of the countryside.
21. Tirupati:
One of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India, Tirupati is a place that is acclaimed internationally.
This holy abode of Lord Venkateshwara is situated in Tirumala, one of the seven hills of Tirupati.
It is believed that Tirupati is the place where Lord Venkateshwara, one of Lord Vishnu’s incarnations, took place of an idol, and hence Tirupati is home to this deity.
A must-visit in Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is a place where the constant chant of ‘Om Namo Venkatesaya’ amidst the majestic hills would surely make you feel as if you’re in the home of the almighty.
22. Puttaparthi:
Earlier a small quaint village and today known as the divine abode of Shri Sathya Sai Baba, Puttaparthi has gained prominence as a religious pilgrimage site over the years.
The Sathya Sai Ashram is the main attraction of Puttaparthi. It is also known as ‘Prashanti Nilayam’ which literally translates into ‘the abode of peace’.
23. Mantalayam:
Situated 74 kilometers away from Kurnool, Mantralayam is located on the banks of river Tungabhadra. It is known Sri Guru Raghavendra Swami who took Samadhi alive in front of his disciples.
He was a Madhwa saint who was considered to be a reincarnation of king Prahlada. Hence Mantralayam is a place that signifies ardent devotion and sacrifice.
24. Chittoor:
Brimming with ardent devotion, religion, and ancient architecture Chittoor is yet another place that you should visit once in your life.
Cascading waterfalls amidst majestic hills, Chittoor offers a plethora of scenic beauties to please its visitors.
25. Srisailam:
Located near Kurnool district Andhra Pradesh, Srisailam is an important religious place housing the holy Malikarjuna Jyotirlinga and one of the eighteen Shaktipeethas of Goddess Parvati.
26. Maredumili:
A quaint village 85 kilometres from Rajahmundry, Maredumilli is located amidst the dense forest and has been developed and taken care of by the forest department of India.
The pure and quiet beauty of the place makes it one of the most scenic tourist places in India. Jalatarangini waterfalls, Amruthadara waterfall, Manyam viewpoint are some of the most visited places of Maredumilli.
27. Rajahmundry:
Located on the banks of river Godavari, this place is also known as Rajamahendravarman as it was founded by Raja Narendra in the 19th century.
It is the cultural capital of Andhra Pradesh as it is believed that the official language Telugu had originated from this place.
28. Amravathi:
The capital city of Andhra Pradesh, Amravathi is a prime hub for religious pilgrimage and sightseeing, Amravathi is a city settled on the banks of river Krishna.
It is renowned for its Buddhist Stupa, comprising of ancient Buddhist relics and is often called the abode of God.
29. Kakinada:
A land reflecting our rich cultural as well as modernity if urbanization, Kakinada is a commercial hub that represents the best of worlds.
A city with numerous temples as well as relics pertaining to our history, Kakinada promises an unforgettable experience to its Visitors.
30. Uppada Beach (Near Kakinada):
Located 10 kilometres away from Kakinada, Uppada Beach is yet again another picturesque location to bask in the warmth of the sun. Uppada is a village known for its weaving and fisheries.
31. Anantpura:
Known as a holy place for pilgrimage, Anantpuram is located in the Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh.
A small town, Anantapuram is known as a home for temples like the Ahobilam temple, the veer Bhadra temple, and the Penukonda fort.
32. Gooty fort (near Anantapur):
One of the oldest hill forts in the state, Gooty fort is also known as Ravadurga and is a ruined fort located on the Gooty hills in Andhra Pradesh.
Gooty fort was earlier headquartered by the Mughals, Marathas and the British. It is acclaimed due to various inscriptions excavated from this site.
33. Samalakota (Near Kakinada):
Situated in the East Godavari district, Samalkota is known as one of the Panchakarma temples, one of the forms of Lord shiva known as the Sri Kumararama Bheemeshwara Swamy.
It faces an influx of devotes specifically during Mahashivaratri.
34. Srikalahasti:
A holy town in the Chittoor district, the Srikalahasti temple is a huge hundred pillared temple mandapam built by Raja Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagar during the 16th century.
Srikalahasti is an amalgamation of three words; Sri (spider), Kala (snake), and has (elephant) that once worshipped shiva lingam and attained moksha.
35. Gandikota (Belum Caves):
Just about 1.5 kilometers from Belum caves, the village of Gandikota is famously known as the Grand Canyon of India.
A narrow valley with steep rocky walls and streams running through it resembles the Grand Canyon of Arizona. Gandikota is also famously known for the ruins of the Gandikota fort which was built in the 13th century.
36. Lepakshi:
Located in the Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh, Lepakshi is a small village that traces its origins back to the 16th century when it was founded by Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijaynagara Empire.
Lepakshi has magnificent temples, ancient ruins as well as relics that are sure to entice the history buff in you.
37. Konaseema:
Nicknamed as ‘God’s own Creation’ due to its resemblance to backwaters of Kerala, Konaseema is a group of islands between tributaries of Godavari river in the East Godavari district.
Its picturesque beauty and a serene climate make it one of the most visited places in Andhra Pradesh.
38. Vizianagaram:
Formed in the year 1979, the district of Vizianagram, the name of the place is synonymous as the ‘City of Victory’. This region has a glorious past linked with the history of Kalinga.
As it lies close to the coastline of Bay of Bengal, the tropical climate along with majestic forts and divine temples lures numerous visitors to this place.
39. Draksharamam:
Built between the 9th and the 10th century by a Chalukyan king Bhima, Draksharamam temple is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras that are sacred to lord shiva.
40. Ahobilam temple:
An important pilgrimage destination near the Kurnool district, Ahobilam is the holy abode of Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu in a man-lion form.
According to a legend, it is this place where Lord Narasimha killed Hiranyakashayapa and saved Prahlada.
41. Rayadurgam (near Anantpura):
Built at a height of 2722 feet above sea level, Rayadurga is a small town housing monuments reflecting rich cultural heritage.
Located at the Karnataka border, this place traces the history of Tenali Rama folklore, as it held an important place in the Vijayanagar empire.
42. Hamsaladevi:
Located 20 kilometers from Machilipatnam, Hamsaladevi is famous for the old Venugopalsawmy temple of Lord Krishna.
At Hamsaladevi, the river Krishna converges in the Bay of Bengal, and hence the place is known as ‘Sagara Sangam’.
43. Chirala:
Famously known as Ksheerapuri, the sunrise at Chirala beach is a breathtaking view that you must see on your visit.
44. Cumbum lake:
Also known as Gundlakamma lake, Cumbum lake is one of the oldest man-made lakes in Asia. The lake is about 7 kilometers long and 3.5 kilometers wide. The dame over this lake was built by Ruchidevi, wife of Sri Krishnadevaray.
45. Annavaram:
A village nestled on the banks of river Pampa, Annavarnam is famously known for its Veera Venkata Satyanarayana temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
46. Yaganti:
Famous for its temple of Sri Yagantiswamy dedicated to Lord Shiva, Yagant is located near Kurnool district. This temple dates back to the 6th century.
The idol of lord shiva and Devi Parvati fused together in this temple is called Ardhanareeswara, which is carved out of a single stone and is a sight to behold.
47. Rishikonda Beach:
Situated on Bheemili road in Vishakapatnam, Rishikonda beach is rich in its sheer natural beauty.
Due to its natural blue waters and emerald picturesque beauty, it is rightly named as the ‘Jewel of east coast’.
48. Tadipatri:
Located near Anantapur, Tadipatri is a small town in Andhra Pradesh ancient temples and historic relics that date back to the Vijayanagara empire from the 6th century.
49. Kaigal Falls:
Located near Chittoor district, with a height of about 40 feet, Kaigal falls is nestled in the Koundiya Wildlife Sanctuary.
50.Undavalli caves (Near Vijaywada):
Located 6 kilometres southwest from Vijaywada, Undavalli caves were carved out of solid sandstone.
One of the best examples of rock-cut architectures in India, Undavalli caves are surrounded by green hillsides overlooking river Krishna, providing you with an enriching experience.
Famous National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries In Andhra Pradesh:
1. Sri Venkateshwara national park:
About 10 kilometres away from Tirupati, Sri Venkateshwara national park is home to many endemic plant species like slender loris and tree shrew.
It is also a perfect place for bird watchers who can sight species like Indian roller kingfishers and many more.
2. Papikondalu National park:
Spanning over an area of 1000 kilometre square, Papi Kondalu national park is rich in forest reserves.
3. Kaundinya wildlife sanctuary:
It is the only sanctuary that is home to a faint population of Asian elephants.
4. Nagarjuna- Srisailam wildlife sanctuary:
Earlier specifically built as a tiger reserve, today Nagarjuna wildlife sanctuary is home to several species of carnivores like jackals and birds like grey hornbill.
5. Coringa wildlife sanctuary:
It is home to 35 species of mangrove trees, 120 species of rare birds, and other innumerable species of flora and fauna.
6. Gundla Brameshwaram wildlife sanctuaries:
Located in the Kurnool district, it is home to animals like tigers, wild dogs, bears, pythons, and many more species of animals.
7. Rollapadu wildlife sanctuary:
Spanning across an area of 614 square kilometres, Rollapadu is home to endangered species like the Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican.
Andhra Pradesh Is Famous For:
Dance and Music:
When it comes to dancing music and folklore, an indication of culturally rich heritage, it is this state where classical dance forms like Kuchipudi and the traditional warrior dance, Perini have emerged.
Traditional Handlooms:
This state is also famous for its traditional handloom style called ikat, which includes skillfully weaving yarn into cloth adorned with intricate designs and patterns. This style was soon followed by people in Gujarat and Orissa.
Food and Delicacies:
Along with rich and impressive culture, the cuisines of Andhra Pradesh captivates you in its glory.
The exotic seasonings from the kitchen of nawabs mixed with our own Indian tadka makes Andhra delicacies one of the best.
From their traditional Pulihora (tamarind rice) to the Andhra chicken Biriyani, the cuisine has a divine mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian offerings.
Fairs and Festivals of Andhra Pradesh:
1. Ugadi:
Also known by other names such as Gudi Padwa in some parts of India, Ugadi is the New Year celebration of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka.
People prepare traditional delicacies like Puran Poli and Bhakshya and offer their prayings to the lord seeking blessing for a prosperous new year.
2. Pongal:
Famously known as the harvest festival, Pongal or Makar Sankranti is celebrated all over India.
People of Andhra Pradesh dress up in ancient mythological characters and celebrate this festival for four days by rejoicing the new harvest with a grand feast and plenty of sweets, a rejoice for the sweet tooth in us!
3. Tirupati Tirumala Brahmotsavam:
The festival of Lord Brahma, this festival is vastly celebrated at the Tirumala Venkateswara temple in Tirupati.
This festival lasts for nine days every year in October where the influx of visitors in Tirupati Is on the rise to offer ardent devotion and seek blessings of the Lord
4. Lumbini Festival:
Also known as the Buddhist temple organized by the department of tourism of State Government of Andhra Pradesh, it has a great significance as Buddhism is a major religion practised in this state.
This three-day festival witness thousands of visitors every year during December and is celebrated in the region of Hyderabad and Nagajurnasagar.
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