Araku Valley is a hill station in Alluri Sitharamaraju district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, lying 111 km west of Visakhapatnam city. This place is often referred to as “Ooty of Andhra”. It is a valley in the Eastern Ghats inhabited by different tribes, mainly Araku Tribes.
Araku Valley is located at an average altitude ranging between 600 m and 900 m above the sea level. Spreading over an area of 36 kms and offers beautiful views of valley, waterfalls and streams. The pleasant weather and beautiful hills and valleys make the place ideal for its natural beauty and coffee plantations.
Also Visit Official Website of Alluri Sitharamaraju District
Araku Valley is home to vibrant tribal communities that have preserved their rich cultural heritage for generations. Housing more than 17 tribal societies, some of the prominent tribes in the region include the Bagatha, Gadaba, Kondadora, and Valmiki tribes. Dhimsa Dance is a unique feature of the tribes of Araku, which is being organized in the nights of every Saturday and Sunday for entertaining tourists.
Celebrations like Itikala Panduga (Seeds Festival) and Pusapandi Panduga (Harvest Festival) are deeply connected to their agricultural cycles. These festivals involve communal feasts, music, and dance, fostering unity among the tribes.
Tribal Museum: Located in Araku Valley, the Tribal Museum showcases indigenous ways of life, including jewelry, hunting tools, kitchenware, and life-sized statues depicting daily activities.
Borra Caves are natural caves located about 18 kms from Araku and 90 kms from the coastal city of Visakhapatnam. Borra Caves are among India’s deepest limestone caves, extending up to 80 meters in depth. Discovered in 1807. A local legend narrates that a cow fell into the cave, leading to the discovery of a Shiva Lingam, which is now worshipped by locals.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
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Galikonda View Point is the highest peak in Visakhapatnam and 2nd highest peak in Eastern Ghats. Situated at an altitude of 4,320 feet, Galikonda View Point offers panoramic view of the valley, including rivers, hills, and railway tracks. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Approximately 14 km from Araku, Katiki Waterfalls is a picturesque cascade formed by the Gosthani River. The Waterfall is located near Borra Caves. The journey to the falls involves a short trek, making it a popular spot for adventure seekers.
Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM
Also known as Dumbriguda Waterfalls, this serene spot is about 13 km from Araku. Natural setting known for a cascading waterway with rocky pools for swimming & sliding. It’s a favorite among locals and filmmakers for its tranquil ambiance and natural beauty.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Padmapuram Garden is a 26-acre botanical garden, established in 1942, featuring a rose garden, sculptures, and treetop huts. Visitors can enjoy a toy train ride around the garden, making it a favorite among families and children.
Timings: 8.30 AM to 6 PM
Located near Ananthagiri, 30 km from Araku, Tadimada Waterfalls is a hidden gem surrounded by dense forests. The area is ideal for hiking and offers a peaceful retreat into nature. It is one of the best waterfalls in Araku.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
The Araku Valley Coffee Museum, also known as the Sampoorna Coffee Gallery, is a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and travelers exploring Araku Valley.
Timings: 8 AM to 8 PM
Located approximately 0.68 km from the Araku Railway Station, this factory provides an immersive experience into the world of chocolate making. The factory offers a diverse range of handmade chocolates, catering to various tastes and preferences. The factory features colorful, chocolate-themed decor and play areas, making it an enjoyable visit for families with children.
Timings: 9.30 AM to 5 PM
Araku Pinery is a 27 acre serene eco-tourism destination located in Anjoda, approximately 8 km from Araku Valley. The location is approximately 130 km from Visakhapatnam. It is established in November 2023 by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department. The attractions and activities here are Pine forest trails, Camping facilities, Viewpoints and the picturesque setting has become a favored location for Photography and Film shoots.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Ananthagiri Coffee Plantations, nestled in the Ananthagiri Hills near Araku Valley offer a serene retreat into lush greenery and tribal heritage. These plantations are renowned for producing Araku Emerald – India’s first organic coffee, crafted by local tribal communities.
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The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport (107 km away). Flights from major cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and Delhi operate regularly. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Araku Valley.
The Araku Railway Station is the nearest railhead. Trains from major cities like Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Chennai connect to Visakhapatnam, from where you can take a train or road transport to Araku.
The most common route is from Visakhapatnam, which is about 112 km away. You can drive or take a bus via NH16 and Araku Road, which offers breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats. Private taxis and rental cars are available for a comfortable journey.
Package Details | |
Package Name | Visakhapatnam-Araku (Rail-cum- Road Package) |
Destination Covered | Araku Valley(Tribal Museum, Tea Gardens & Dhimsa Dance), Ananthagiri coffee plantations, Galikonda view point, Borra caves |
Travelling Mode | Train |
Station/Departure Time | Vishakhapatnam/ 06:45 Hrs |
Class | EV/SL/2S |
Frequency | Everyday |
Meal Plan | 1 Breakfast, 01 Lunch & 1 Evening Snacks |
Duration | 01 Day |
Tour Itinerary:
Day 01 [Vishakhapatnam to Araku & back]
Board Train No. 58501 from Vishakhapatnam railway station take your train to Araku Valley. Departure from Vishakhapatnam by Train no. 58501 at 06.45 hrs. Enjoy the train passing through tunnels, Bridges and landscapes. Upon arrival at Araku at 10.55 hrs. Pick up from Arakku Station visit the Tribal Museum Chapurai and Gardens. Lunch and return back to Vizag by road. Enroute visit Ananthagiri Coffee Plantations, Galikonda View Point, Borracaves. Reach Vizag and drop at VSKP Railway station or in the City limits.
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