About 115 km from Vizag (Visakhapatnam) lies Araku Valley, located at an altitude of 900 m above sea level. Although it is a year-round destination, the monsoons are a good time to visit Araku. The drive up the ghats offer spectacular views of the lush green hills playing hide and seek with the mist and clouds.
Araku is neither too far nor too close to the city. You can even make a day trip to Araku from Visakhapatnam!
Visit the tribal centre museum and pick up souvenirs from the gift shop. For the adventurous, Araku offers quite a few trekking trails.
On the way to Araku, you will come across the Ananthagiri Hills, known for their coffee plantations.
It is advisable to first visit Borra Caves and then head to Araku. Located 29 km from Araku Valley, Borra Caves, one of the largest natural limestone caves in Asia are a must see! Hire a guide (Rs 30) for a tour of the caves.
Where to stay
Lodging options include Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation's Punnami Yatri Nivas, Punnami Hill Resort (Phone: 08936 249491), Jungle Bells Nature Camp (Phone: 0891 2713135, 0891 2746446) and Padmapuram Hanging Cottages (Phone: 08936 249225).
How to get there
Visakhapatnam airport is 112 km away.
APTDC conducts a Rail-cum-Road package tour to Araku from Visakhapatnam.
Vizag Railway Station is about 136 km from Araku. You can drive up from Visakhapatnam or take an APTDC Bus.
Text and photograph: Tanya Munshi
Also see: Weekend getaways around Bangalore
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