Discover the enchanting allure of Araku Valley, an unexplored gem nestled in the gentle hills of the Eastern Ghats. This serene hill station, located about 120 kilometers away from

Vishakhapatnam, is a favored weekend getaway for locals seeking exclusivity and tranquility.

For an extraordinary journey, hop on the Vistadome train departing Vishakhapatnam at 6.50 AM. As you embark on this scenic voyage, the train weaves through 58 tunnels and glides over 84 bridges, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. In approximately 5 hours, you’ll arrive at Araku Valley, captivated by its natural beauty.

Not only is Araku Valley renowned for its picturesque surroundings, but it is also a dwelling place for various tribes. Immerse yourself in their rich culture by visiting tribal caves and the Museum of Tribal Arts, where you can experience their unique way of life.

The allure of Araku Valley extends to its exquisite coffee, with a subtle aroma that will leave you yearning for a delightful cup. For adventure enthusiasts, the valley offers an array of thrilling activities like trekking and swimming, promising an adrenaline-packed holiday experience.

If you believe you’ve seen it all, think again. Araku Valley promises an unparalleled escapade, where perplexity and burstiness of experiences intertwine, ensuring an unforgettable journey amidst nature’s splendor. So wait no more, venture forth and embrace the enigma of Araku Valley!

 

More About Araku Valley

Things to Do in Araku Valley 

Explore the wonders of Araku Valley with a plethora of captivating experiences:

    1. Borra Caves: A must-visit attraction, the million-year-old Borra Caves mesmerize with their ancient text, pictures, and symbols adorning the walls. History and archaeology enthusiasts will find themselves enthralled by the caves’ timeless existence, while art and culture enthusiasts will be captivated by the unique aura. For those seeking tranquility, the cave’s serene atmosphere is a true delight.

 

    1. Coffee Plantations: En route from Borra Caves to Araku, take a break at one of the lush coffee plantations.

 

    1. Chaprai and Anantgiri Falls: Nearby, the enchanting Chaprai and Anantgiri Falls await your visit, offering picturesque encounters with nature’s beauty.

 

    1. Kartiki Waterfall: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Kartiki Waterfall, nestled within the valley’s bounds.

 

    1. Coffee Museum: Delve into Araku’s rich coffee culture at the nearby coffee museum. Treat yourself to a steaming cup of coffee and indulge in assorted coffee-based chocolates, perfect mementos to take home.

 

    1. Gastronomic Delights: Savor the unique flavors of the region by trying Dhimsa, a delectable dish of chicken cooked in bamboo.

 

    1. Botanical Garden and Toy Train Ride: Embark on a delightful journey through the Botanical Garden on a toy train ride, adding a touch of joy to your exploration.

 

    1. Thrilling Adventures: Calling all adrenaline junkies! Embark on invigorating treks and hikes through the valley’s magnificent mountains, an experience like no other.

 

    1. Diverse Activities: Apart from trekking, take a dip in the refreshing waters and try your hand at swimming. Engage in sightseeing, photography, and immerse yourself in the local culture to make the most of your trip to Araku Valley.

 

Prepare yourself for a journey of wonder, adventure, and cultural immersion in the magical embrace of Araku Valley.

Sample Itinerary For Araku Valley.

Embark on a captivating journey to Araku, where two distinct means of transportation await you, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Whether you catch the morning train or opt for the road, your adventure is bound to be memorable.

When exploring Araku, make sure to include Shimliguda, Tyda, Borra Caves, Galikondalu Viewpoint, and the Tribal Museums in your itinerary. These attractions promise to enchant and enrich your experience with their unique offerings.

For a swift return, hop on the night train, or if you prefer a leisurely escape, plan a weekend trip and indulge in an overnight stay, immersing yourself in the valley’s serene embrace.

Prepare for an unforgettable escapade, where natural wonders and cultural treasures await your discovery in the alluring realm of Araku.

Tips For Visiting Araku Valley

    1. Before embarking on your journey to Araku Valley, ensure you secure your ticket in advance. While numerous cabs are available for travel, there’s only one train that runs from Vishakhapatnam to Araku. Departing early in the morning and returning late at night, this train journey promises to be a delightful experience.

 

    1. It is advisable to pack a few woollens, an umbrella, and a comfortable pair of shoes, as the weather in the valley tends to fluctuate. Be prepared for changing conditions throughout your trip.

 

    1. Accommodations in Araku Valley cater to diverse preferences, offering hotels of all kinds for travelers. Additionally, this journey provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, as the majority of locals are from tribal communities.

 

  1. For vegetarian travelers, it is recommended to carry your own food. Ensuring you have your preferred meals will enhance your overall experience during the trip.

Prepare yourself for an enriching and rewarding adventure in Araku Valley, where nature’s beauty and cultural encounters await your discovery.

How to Reach Araku Valley 

To reach Araku Valley, you have several transportation options:

    1. Train: Catch the Vistadome or Glass Top coach train number 58501 from Visakhapatnam at 6.50 AM, arriving at Araku by 10.50 AM. For the return journey, board train number 58502 departing Araku at 3:40 PM and reaching Visakhapatnam by 8:10 PM daily. The ticket price for these comfortable coaches is INR 565.

 

    1. Private Buses: Enjoy the convenience of private buses running regularly from major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Vijayawada, Hyderabad, and Chennai to Araku Valley.

 

    1. Air: If you prefer air travel, the nearest airport is Vishakhapatnam, which is 80 kilometers away from Araku Valley. From there, you can continue your journey via train, bus, or taxis.

 

    1. Rail: Besides the Vistadome train from Vishakhapatnam, there are no other direct train connections to Araku Valley. The journey from Vishakhapatnam takes approximately five hours.

 

    1. Road: State government buses and numerous private cabs provide road connectivity between Araku Valley and Vishakhapatnam. You can conveniently choose from various options for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

 

No matter which mode of transportation you select, the captivating landscapes and cultural experiences of Araku Valley await your arrival.

Places To Visit In Araku Valley

 

Borra Caves
The Borra Caves, also known as Borra Guhalu in the native language, were discovered by William King George of the Geological Survey of India in 1807. Read More

 

Borra Caves
With the pristine waters of the Gosthani River gracing this place, it is undoubtedly a must-visit destination if you are in the area. Read More
Borra Caves
3. Chaparai Waterfalls

Located a mere 13 kilometers away from
Araku, the Chaparai Waterfalls, also known
as the Dumbriguda Waterfalls, is a highly
popular weekend getaway and a coveted
filming location for the Telugu film industry.

Read More

Borra Caves
4. Tadimada Waterfalls

The Tadimada Waterfalls, also commonly
known as Ananthagiri Waterfalls, is a captivating
beauty that will instantly steal your heart.
To truly embrace the wonders of nature at this
enchanting spot, hiking is the easiest and most
immersive way to experience its splendor.

Read More

Borra Caves
5. Matsyagundam

Famously referred to as the fish pool,
Matsyagundam, situated near Paderu,
is a haven for various fish species and
houses the age-old Sri Matsyalingeshwara
Swamy Temple. With its immense potential
for tourism, this stream is enveloped in
captivating folklore, adding to its allure.

Read More

Borra Caves
6. Bheemili Beach

Bheemili Beach, situated in the Vishakhapatnam
District’s Araku Valley, holds a special significance
as it marks the origin of River Gosthani, near
Bheemunipatnam. This scenic beach not only
offers a serene retreat but also serves as a historical
site, with visible remains of 17th-century British and
Dutch settlements, including a fort and cemetery.
Exploring these remnants provides a fascinating
glimpse into the colonial history of the region.

Read More

Borra Caves
7. Tribal Museum

The Araku Tribal Museum, established in 1996
by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development
Corporation, offers a captivating depiction of
the tribal culture in Andhra Pradesh.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore a
diverse array of artifacts, including utensils,
jewelry, hunting tools, and even wedding
photographs, providing a vivid glimpse into
the essence of traditional tribal life.
Immerse yourself in this cultural journey
and gain a deeper appreciation for the
customs and heritage of the tribal
communities that have enriched the
heritage of Andhra Pradesh over the years.

Read More

Borra Caves
8. Padmapuram Gardens

Padmapuram Gardens is a beloved destination
for numerous tourists visiting Araku Valley.
This enchanting garden delights visitors with
its diverse collection of flora, including an
exquisite rose garden, which adds a burst of
colors and fragrance to the surroundings.
The garden also features unique treetop huts
that provide a unique and picturesque experience.

 

Read More