Get ready for the magical state of Andhra Pradesh, where heritage is enflamed in modernity – arguably woven into one enchanting curtain. Set out on your journey through this exceptional region and be enthralled by the culture that has survived centuries.
The Iconic Charminar in the happening capital of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad is one of those must-visit historical sites. This formidable 16th-century structure adorned with four elaborate minarets is a tribute to the architectural smart of the region and is one of them, he monuments that spotlighted the reign f Qutb Shahi dynasty. Get lost in the latoto complex of arches, marvel at filigree work songs by locals and wander through street markets making your way around a myriad traditional arts & crafts offered here along the delicious variety of street foods this part have to offer.
For a deeper look into the illustrious history of the state, head to Golconda Fort. Perched on a hill, this mighty fortress – once the domain of Qutb Shahi kings and containing captivating tales of valiantry, political sagas involving poison cups; f telephone distance calls that turned to be very short indeed! And had within its precincts even these legendary diamonds. Ascend to the highest reaches of those towering ramparts and enjoy spectacular 360-degree vistas, all while contemplating how advantageous this fortress must have been in its time. Travel through various chambers, gates and underground tunnels to discover the rich tapestry of Andhra Pradesh’s history.
Places to Visit in Andhra Pradesh, Natural Places of Interest
Apart from the historical treasuries, there are a large number of Natural elements that will stimulate every sense in nature for any traveler passing by Andhra Pradesh. Out of many such destinations is a mesmerizing town, Araku Valley nestled in the lap of Eastern Ghats hill ranges. Offering a getaway from the city life, Dhanachuli is an idyllic hill station for nature lovers.
On the winding roads leading to Araku Valley, you ride amidst beautiful landscapes with verdant coffee plantations on either side and waterfalls cascading down beside into valleys hidden by mist laden hills. Relax in the peaceful atmosphere, experience that cool refreshing air and enjoy some locally produced Araku coffee with its famous fragrance of enticing aroma and smooth flavour. Head to the mystical Borra Caves for an adventure amidst spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations, or embark on an exciting trek to explore secluded waterfalls & scenic hilltop views.
Vishakhapatnam, or Vizag, is a great retreat for all you sea lovers out there! 1) VISAKHAPATNAM: Located in the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam is a beautiful port city offering endless miles of clean sun-kissed beaches to relax and toss into golden sands with sea breeze touching your face. Take a leisurely walk by the tranquil RK Beach, enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city from atop Kailasagiri Hill or spend some quiet time gazing at sun as it sets beneath on horizon coloring the sky with its golden hues at Ramakrishna Beach.
Places of worship in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh is not only the Land of Ancient History and Nature’s Wonders but also has some great spiritual importance, as it houses one of India’s Holiest Religious Sites. One of such destination is divine Tirupati Balaji Temple which draws devotees in the numbers that run into millions annually.
A temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, one of the incarnations of Hindu deity Vishnu – it is an awe-inspiring architectural marvel that stands tall showcasing some fine details and devotion with every stone placed. With 3,550-odd steps to take you up just the same number way to choose, Nagaraja Temple is a testimonial of sheer size & height that make it appear larger than many other temples that are built on traditional scale but regardless filled with intricate carvings and richness in vibrant colors. The noble deity sleeps in the principal sanctum and amazes all with reverence.
Apart from Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh is known for many other spiritual destinations showcasing the rich traditions of spirituality in this state. These archaeological remains are a window into the state’s ancient Buddhist heritage or The Amaravati ‘Buddhist Site’ nestles amid these compassionate settings, germinating with its well-preserved stupa. Thousand Pillar Temple of Warangal, a fine specimen of Kakathiyan architecture and the any sublime artistry in stone carving that must have primed to satiate divinity. Engaging all the senses, these sacred spaces also offer deep spiritual reflection.
Andhra Pradesh Festivals and Events Trending in 2020
The vibrant and colorful festivals in Andhra Pradesh add life to its rich cultural tapestry, celebrating the state’s indigenous traditions while showcasing its diversity. Karthika Masam is the most famous festival celebrated in this village during Hindu calendar month of Karthika(Nov-Dec) and it will host for a period of one-month.
Throughout this period, the streets of Andhra Pradesh burst into life with a plethora of celebrations including elaborate processions and traditional music and dance performances while thousands upon thousands light lamps. The premier event of the Karthika Masam is none other than the famous display – The Karhtik Deepaalu, where all devotees come together to light diyas and offer their prayers by creating a beautiful sight with lights in every temple which speaks volumes about their love towards God.
One more not-to-miss of the Andhra Pradesh events is Bonalu Festival conducting in honor of the Goddess Mahankali. Known for the colorful processions, traditional food offerings and Thummeda Kaya-where Gussadi dancers wear elaborate masks and costumes to pay tribute to the divine mother-the annual festival is predominantly celebrated in Hyderabad. In all, the energy and vigor of Bonalu Festivalare so contagious that you literally find it unforgettable even after leaving the place.
Nestled in the Heart of Andhra Pradesh, Popular Cities and Towns to Explore
Get the complete experience of Andhra Pradesh state with its urban hubs and towns displaying every soulful aspect that characterizing this wonderful Appinda adi.
Hyderabad at its core is the cosmopolitan capital city of Andhra Pradesh, blending history with culture and modern day living. Explore the old city where you’ll find that Charminar is still standing from What Shahi legacy in this region and while walking freely through lively markets experiencing local crafts, street food flavors, colors and people. But look beyond its historical landmarks and an emerging modern metropolis awaits, one with a lively IT hub,gourmet restaurants galore and pulsating nightlife.
A peaceful and serene experience can be found in the enchanting town, Tirupati that is famous with its holiest of all temples -Tirupati Balaji Temple. Thousands of devotees flock to this sacred place from various parts of the world seeking divine blessings of Lord Venkateswara. Apart from the temple, Tirupati is known for its scenic beauty in a blend of hills and pilgrim town.
Head further down south to coastal city Vishakhapatnam, more commonly known as Vizag or get lost your peace in Bay of Bengal. So take a walk on the RK Beach, enjoy panoramic views from Kailasagiri Hill and dive deep into the region’s maritime past at Submarine Museum. The vibrant combination of nature, culture and modern facilities in Vizag makes it an important place to visit Andhra Pradesh .
Authentic Andhra Pradesh Culinary Experiences
From its cultural heritage, Andhra Pradesh is as diverse and fascinating when it comes to the culinary landscape too that includes flavors of every kind for a traveler who wants his taste buds enchanted with flavorful gastronomic delights.
The Andhra Chilli Chicken is a spicy, tangy chicken preparation that exemplifies the fiery attitude of this region when it comes to flavorful food and Liquor Manufactures in Maharashtra. A dose full of flavours with spicy hot fresh chilies and fragrant blend of spices paired along succulent chicken makes it a debatable pleasure to the senses, that lingers-on in your mouth… All balanced & adjusted for taste perceptions. This dessert goes well with some Andhra Fried RiceGayatrinair85 / WikiGoldBrothers – Personal work or Gongura Mamsam (Lamb cooked in Sorrel Leaves) to have oneself a complete taste of the true culinary attractions of Andhra Pradesh.
Complementing the list is a must-try rich tradition of Brahmin cuisine, for those looking to indulge in vegetarian delights. Specialties such as the Pesarattu (Mung Bean Dosa), Pachi pulusu (Raw Mango Curry) and Gongura pachadi Spinacio Paratha reflect the culinary prowess of an area known for it’s array of mouth – watering vegetarian delicacies. Pair them with the age-old Andhra Thali, an all-encompassing platter that gives you a taste of everything great about food from this state.
You can’t have an Andhra Pradesh food from home without sampling the state’s delicacies. The traditional sweets range from the sweet and decadent Ariselu (jaggery based confection) to the delicate Pootharekulu – wafer-thin, transparent rice paper stuffed with coconut-sugar mixture & ghee is a celebrate of both skilled Conelulerers ina long culinary heritage. Relish yourself with sweets and wash them down with a steaming cup of Andhra Coffee, known for its aromatic richness and smooth flavors to transport you into food heaven!
Andhra Pradesh Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks
Not only it flaunts the pristine beauty of natural wonders but is also a paradise for nature-loving enthusiasts, which offers an amazing range of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks to explore.
Tiger at Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, Andhra PradeshOne of the key wildlife attractions in Andhra Pradesh is the massive protected expanse – which hosts a large population of Bengal tigers. Ride on safari from the dense forests of this untamed wilderness to rugged terrain, with some amazing sightings like tigers and possibly even more elusive leopards or sloth bears, plus watch out for Jerdon’s Courser, which is increasingly hard to find and rare as compared to its counterpart the Indian Fox.
Nelapattu Bird SanctuaryLocated in Naidupet, the sacred repose of Nelapattu plays host to an unbelievable variety of our winged friends. This sanctuary, who is the birdwatcher’s heaven offers too much to see and offer photographers with the gorgeous painted storks found here meandering for water along with flamingos surrounded by chilled paddy. Discover tranquil marshes and mangrove woods, along with the soundtrack of bird calls echoing through the tree-tops.
Sri Venkateswara National ParkAnother wildlife hotspot of Andhra Pradesh, the gateway to Tirupati Balaji Temple is home for the Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary through all its colored environs. The park is a rich habitat for many species of native flora and fauna-including the critically endangered Slender Loris, among other majestic creatures like the Sambar. From wildlife safaris and nature treks in the lush forest reserve, to soaking up its spiritual ambiance as one with flora & fauna.
Quirky and Unexplored Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh not only has best iconic landmarks and some of the finest tourist places but also a treasure trove when it comes to offbeat destinations, with rare charm in every corner.
One of these secret treasures is Belum Caves, a large underground cave formation that ranks as the second-longest in the Indian subcontinent. Embark on a trip to this geological splendour and behold the enchanting stalactites, as well as be amazed by its mammoth chambers which look breathtakingly extraterrestrial. Admire the labyrinthine system of tunnels and underground lakes, as well as uncovering its long history and rich mythology.
A visit to the Araku Valley Tribal Museum offers a window into two million years of tribal culture preserved and kept alive by indigenous tribes that have traversed through this region since 7000 BC. Explore vivid depictions of traditional dress, fine handiwork and cultural relics as you learn more about the resilient practices that define these centuries old traditions.
Kolleru Lake in Andhra Pradesh is another offbeat destination which has an immense freshwater lake and Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. This place is few of the silent and gorgeous part on our planet where thousands to migratory birds take shelter over long period… Thus an eye candy for all those who love bird watching or have respect towards nature in real sense. Take a boat tour, walk through the wetlands and enjoy peaceful beauty of this unspoilt treasure.
Andhra Pradesh Best Places to See
ImageCredit – unsplash Andhra Pradesh is a sensory extravaganza of rich history, monumental wonders, spiritualism culture and nature. With incredible places such as the iconic Charminar & Golconda Fort to Araku Valley full of serenity to Beaches in Vishakhapatnam dotted along its vast coastline, this mesmerizing region is a promise for an unforgettable expedition.
Witness colourful festivals that showcase the rich heritage and spirituality of Andhra Pradesh, or visit its revered Tirupati Balaji Temple. Eating the bold and spicy dishes of Andhra cuisine, or visit offbeat attractions like Belum Cavesand Kolleru Lake to find out about hidden secrets in this enigmatic land. If you like reading this article then please consider reading our article about Nagarkot.
