Araku Valley is a popular tourist destination located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is a picturesque valley surrounded by lush green forests, waterfalls, and coffee plantations.
Araku Valley is located at an altitude of 600-900 meters above sea level and is spread across an area of about 36 square kilometers. It is situated about 120 kilometers from Visakhapatnam, and the best time to visit is from September to February. The valley has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C.
Attractions:
Araku Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty and exciting attractions. Some of the popular tourist spots include:
Borra Caves: The Borra Caves are located about 29 kilometers from Araku Valley and are famous for their stunning stalactites and stalagmites. They are believed to be over a million years old and are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Araku Valley.
Katiki Waterfalls: The Katiki Waterfalls are located about 4 kilometers from Borra Caves and are a popular picnic spot. The waterfall is about 50 feet high and is surrounded by lush green forests.
Tribal Museum: The Tribal Museum in Araku Valley is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the culture and traditions of the local tribes. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the tribal lifestyle and history.
Coffee Plantations: Araku Valley is known for its coffee plantations, which produce some of the best coffee in India. Visitors can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the process of coffee production.
Ananthagiri Hills: Ananthagiri Hills is a beautiful hill station located about 30 kilometers from Araku Valley. It is known for its stunning views, lush green forests, and trekking trails.
Padmapuram Gardens: Padmapuram Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden located in Araku Valley. The garden has a wide variety of flora and fauna and is a popular spot for nature lovers.
Activities:
Araku Valley offers several exciting activities for visitors, such as:
Trekking: The valley has several trekking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Camping: Visitors can camp in the valley and enjoy the peaceful surroundings and starry nights.
Sightseeing: Visitors can take a tour of the valley and visit the popular tourist spots.
Shopping: Araku Valley is known for its local handicrafts and souvenirs, which visitors can buy from the local markets.
Overall, Araku Valley is a perfect destination for nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The valley's stunning natural beauty, exciting attractions, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit destination in India.