Top Destinations In Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh presents a glorious synthesis of culture against a colourful natural backdrop. Varied wildlife, rich history, vivid culture, majestic architecture make Andhra Pradesh a destination of endless surprises. Welcoming visitors with innumerable charming facets Andhra Pradesh captivates the eager traveller, looking for a wonderful holiday experience. Andhra Pradesh Tourism has always been the frontrunner in attracting greatest number of tourists, inland and foreign, as it boasts of a naturally, ecologically, culturally and religiously rich and diverse variety of tourist destinations that are treasures of visual treat where one can continuously explore new experiences of visitor gratification and delight.

Bounding in natural resources, the state of Andhra Pradesh having the longest eastern coastline and with a trail of Buddha Period glory, houses and holds many heritage sites adorned with pristine splendour, the forts, citadels and architectural masterpieces built by the past Royal hegemony and its noble Emperors. The magnificent palaces and places, monuments, memorials, tombs and stately structures built by them reflect the art and craftsmanship, architecture and culture that originated on this land. There are beautiful dams, valleys, hills and ridges with the scenic dale, tranquil lake waters, swirling beach waves, meadows, resorts, hill stations, caves, virgin forests, sanctuaries and national parks which a visitor can enjoy to his heart's content.

Tirupati

Among the most popular global pilgrimage places, Tirupati, in Andhra Pradesh, is a stopover for those seeking spirituality and sanctity. Situated at the foot of Tirumala Hills, this lively pilgrim place attracts devotees all year round. Tirupati Balaji or the Lord Venkatesha Temple is the main attraction here. Said to be one of the richest temples in the country, it sees an estimated footfall of 60,000 every day. Devotees donate their hair and various riches in the temple in order to please the god.

Though the temple is an overwhelming presence in the town, Tirupati also houses one of the oldest and the rarest geological formations in the world – a natural stone arch. Lying in close proximity to the temple, the stone arch or Sila Thoranam (garland or festoon of rocks) has been categorised as Precambrian and is believed to be 1,500 million years old!

Tirupati has been ruled by various kingdoms such as the Pallavas around the 9th century, Cholas in the 10th century, and Vijayanagara between the 14th and 15th centuries. It is believed that the rituals in this temple town were formulated by Shri Ramanujacharya, a Hindu theologian and philosopher, in the 11th century.

The Tirumala Hills, which is a group of seven hills namely, Seshadri, Vedadri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrishabadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri, add to the beauty of the town. When viewed from the top, these hills appear to be in the form of a coiled serpent. It is believed that they were once the resting place of Lord Vishnu.

Visakhapatnam

Sprawling along the pristine waters of the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam, the largest city of Andhra Pradesh, is a beach paradise. Boasting stretches of golden sand kissed by tranquil waters, the city is surrounded by picturesque waterfalls, lush forests and scenic hill stations. Popularly known as Vizag, the city is home to the oldest shipyard in the country, ancient temples and spectacular caves.

The main attraction in the city is a submarine-turned-museum, the first of its kind in Asia. Exploring life in the underbelly of the sea as you move through the various rooms that house exhibits showing the same can be an exciting experience. Borra caves, one of the largest in the country, are a delight for adventure lovers, who get to walk to the deep reaches of the warmly-lit caves. The city is peppered with parks and gardens, where visitors can laze around and soak in the natural beauty.

Built around 11th century, Visakhapatnam is popularly called the city of destiny, referring to its soulful natural beauty. It is also the headquarters of the Eastern Command of the Indian Navy. History says Visakhapatnam was ruled by king Visakha Varma, who built a temple here in the name of Lord Visakha and hence the city was minted. It is said Visakhapatnam was once a part of the empire of Kalinga, where emperor Ashoka fought a fierce battle. Primarily an industrial city, it draws a large number of tourists throughout the year. It is fondly called as "Jewel on the Coromandel Coast."

Amaravati

Poised along the banks of River Krishna, the quaint town of Amaravati, in Andhra Pradesh, is rooted in rich Buddhist culture. Dotted with various remnants of ancient Buddhist settlements, Amaravati is a retreat for followers of Buddhism and lovers of history. Located around 35 km from Vijayawada, the town was an ancient Buddhist settlement called Chintapalli. The stupa here, built in 3rd century BC during Mauryan king Ashoka’s reign, was apparently bigger than the one at Sanchi and had a gateway at each cardinal point. One of the gateways was reconstructed and can be seen, though all other structures no longer exist. Stories from the life of Lord Buddha is carved on this gateway.

Tourists can also visit the Kondapalli toy village, which is the hub of the renowned Kondapalli toys that are made using a 500-year-old process and are known for their bright colours and distinct features.