Andhra Pradesh, also known as the Koh-i-Noor of India, is a traveler’s haven. Encompassing the foamy beaches in the east, to entrails of the Enlightened One, globally-famed temples, to vintage forts from that take you back to India in all its prehistoric galore, this state has it all. Being a region ruled by a hoard of rulers from Ikshvakus, Pallavas, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijay Nagar to the Mughals, this state is a successive amalgamation of an extensive range of cultures that complement each other in the best fashion.

The people

Andhra Pradesh harbors Hindus, Muslims, Christians & Buddhists who coexist in harmony. The dance form of Kucchipudi originated here. Andhra cuisine ranges from mild, digestive dishes like curd & rice to the fiery Gutti Vankaya Koora which is a spicy gravy based eggplant dish. The state offers the variety of fish curries being near the coast & is famous for its Andhra Chicken Biryani. Punugulu, Bobbatlu & Medu Vada are also some of the delicacies worth a try.

How to Reach

Andhra Pradesh shares its capital Hyderabad with Telangana, which is a hub for an international airport. Apart from Hyderabad there are airports in Tirupati, Vishakhapatnam, Rajahmundry & Vijaywada that makes Andhra Pradesh easily accessible by air. The state encompasses 5,085 km of the rail tracks, making it one of the most well connected states via train. Four National Highways pass through the state, making it fairly reachable through public or reserved vehicles too.

PLACES TO VISIT

Shri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple :

Also known as the Tirupati Temple, is located on the seventh peak of the Tirumala hills in Andhra Pradesh. The temple witnesses the visit of 5,00,000 visitors especially during the nine-day festival of Brahmotsavam. They make hefty donations in cash & gold, making the Tirupati Temple the richest in the world, receiving upto 22.5 million in cash in a regular day as donations. Visit the temple for its famous laddus & to witness the sheer grandeur the religious organization holds.

The Golconda Fort :

11km away from Hyderabad, this fort was once home to the Koh-i-noor. Admired for its architectural achievements. The Fateh Darwaza and the structures surrounding it was built in such a fashion that clapping your hand near the Darwaza makes the clapping sound resonate for a good 1 km. This was useful to spread signals during periods of distress in the ancient times but it continues to awe the visitors till the present.

The Chaitanya Jyoti Museum :

Built in honor of Sai Baba, the structure of the museum was designed by a NASA scientist Art-ong Jum Sai and sees the amalgamation of Thai, Japanese, Gothic & Chinese style of architecture. The visitors are provided with visual presentations of the life & times of Sai Baba and are acquainted with the reason behind his exalted status & popularity.

Bhavani Island :

Situated in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, visit this place to lounge by one of the biggest lagoons in the region. Sprawled over an area of 130 acres, you can opt for activities like kayaking, reef walking, snorkeling, canoeing or go sailing on a yacht. It san ultimate getaway destination for water enthusiasts.

Borra Caves :

One tourist site unique to this state than all the previously stated states is a number of caves present in this region. Borra is the deepest & the largest one in entire India extending to the a depth of 262ft approx. Mouth itself is 100m wide & holds a vast collection of limestone stalactites & stalagmites in interesting shapes that are remnants of the Paleolithic culture. Explore a unique shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva inside the caves too.

Katiki Waterfalls :

This 50ft high ice-cold waterfall named after the region it is located 4km away from Borra Caves & is not to be missed during your stay in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The fall originates from Gosthani River & sports cool, clear water and scenic surroundings for the tourists to enjoy while they snack on the famous ‘Bamboo Chicken’ that is served plenty near the vicinity by the locals.

VUDA Park :

Located in the city of Vishakhapatnam, this park is named after the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh & is profoundly equipped with arrangements for the incoming visitors. The Park hosts a musical fountain show on a daily basis & sports a yoga center, boating clubs, a multi-gym, Telegu musical classes, and more. Check out the MGM Dizzee Theme World when you’re there.

Mypadu Beach :

22km away from Nellore, this isolated chunk of shoreline cut out from the humdrum of civilization is an ultimate retreating spot to visit with your loved one. Lounge near the shore with your favorite beverage chilling against the sea-breeze or play in the foamy waves of the east before you go back home. The serendipitous beach is open till 6pm year-round.

ANDHRA PRADESH (APTDC) (AC & Non AC Rooms) :

Up to 20% Extra on Friday to Sunday

ARAKU Rail cum Road Package :

Rs.875 per Adult & Rs.700 per Child (3-10 yrs.)