The significance of Andhra Pradesh as an Indian state is spread across a lot of categories. Known as the “Rice Bowl of India”, Andhra Pradesh is a major producer of rice in the country. Andhra Pradesh is one of the oldest places of inhabitation. Traces of the first of their kind are traced back to the Vedic period. Andhra Pradesh is tipped to be one of the most ancient kingdoms of India as evidence suggests that the state has been ruled by the Satavahanas kings known as Andhras.
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Andhra Pradesh has witnessed a lot of history as it has been ruled by countless dynasties. Early inhabitants of the state appreciated local art culture by building temples and sculptures of Buddhist monuments. As a result, Andhra Pradesh was once a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage centre in India.
Andhra Pradesh got its current form in 2014 after the separation of Telangana. With Amravati as its state capital and many sites of interest, find places to visit in Andhra Pradesh if you are planning a trip to this culturally and historically rich state.
10 Places to Visit in Andhra Pradesh
Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, commonly known as Vizag, is one of the oldest port cities in India. Visakhapatnam is adorned with spots that reflect the rich cultural past of the state. The coastline of Visakhapatnam is dotted with countless beaches as Andhra Pradesh boasts the second-largest coastline in India after Gujarat. Vizag also houses the oldest shipyard in the nation.
Upon visiting Visakhapatnam, make sure you spare a day or two to visit the famous Yarada beach and Araku Valley. Araku Valley is situated close to the city and brims with natural beauty that could take you one step closer to mother nature. With stunning waterfalls and crystal clear water streams, Araku Valley is a place that you cannot miss. Visakhapatnam is one of the top places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Major Attractions: Araku Valley, Yarada beach
Ideal duration to explore: 2 days
Things to do: Sunset or Sunrise view, trekking
Tirupati
Tirupati is a globally renowned city due to the presence of the highly popular temple Tirupati Balaji. Tirupati is made of seven hills, out of which Tirumala, home to Tirupati Temple, is the most famous one. As per legend, Tirumala in Tirupati is where Lord Venkateshwara took the form of an idol. Tirupati is one of the most ancient cities in India. Its mention could be found in centuries-old scriptures like Vedas and Puranas.
Tirupati is a prime pilgrimage centre in India. Apart from Tirupati Balaji temple, the city also hosts many famous temples like the Kondandarama Temple, Sri Kalahasti temple, ISKCON temple, and Sri Govindarajaswami Temple and the Parashurameshwara Temple. Make sure you witness the geological wonder in the city called Silathoranam. Silathoranam literally translates to ‘rock garland’. Tirupati is one of the major destinations in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Major Attractions: Tirupati Balaji Temple
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Pilgrimage
Amaravati
Amaravati, the state capital, stands as a fine example of a planned city in India. This fine city welcomes tourists from all parts of the world. Most visit Amaravati for pilgrimage or for sightseeing. The Buddhist Stupa is a famous attraction over here. Called the “Abode of God”, the structure was originally established by Emporer Ashoka. It now serves as a meditation site in the city.
Amaravati was built and developed after proper planning on the banks of the Krishna river. More than half, about 51% of the city, is covered in green spaces. The clean air and the vibrant city vibes make Amaravathi a popular tourist spot in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Major Attractions: Buddhist Stupa
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Learn about the Buddhist culture in India
Vijayawada
Vijayawada is the second-most populated city in Andhra Pradesh. Dubbed the commercial, political and media capital of the state, Vijayawada is a fast-growing city. By visiting Vijayawada, you will get to witness the harmony between the bygone and the modern eras. The city is full of caves and rock-cut temples. There are also numerous hills and canals that add to the aesthetics of this heritage city.
Some of the famous caves within the city are Undavalli Caves and Akkana Madanna Caves. Once known as Bezawada, Vijayawada boasts a tropical climate almost throughout the year. The same makes this city a year-round destination. Visiting Vijayawada should surely be added to your list of places to see in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Major Attractions: Undavalli Caves and Akkana Madanna Caves
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Learn about various dynasties and their architecture
Nellore
Many rivers and their tributaries find their paths through the state of Andhra Pradesh. As a result, many major cities within the state are nestled on the banks or close to these rivers. One such city is Nellore which lies on the banks of the Penna River. Nellore was once known as “Nelluru” which means Paddy (Nel) and Place (Ooru) in the Tamil language.
Owing justice to its name, Nellore is a leading agricultural city and is a leading exporter of Rice, Sugar cane and various crops. The city is also renowned for the export of seafood like prawns and shrimps. With numerous temples and educational institutions, Nellore is doing its bit in growing in every possible sector. For its eye-soothing paddy fields and prominent shrines, Nellore is one of the popular places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Major Attractions: Penna River
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Pilgrimage, Learn about the trade sector of Andhra Pradesh
Guntur
Guntur is nicknamed the “Land of Chilles” for its expansive chilli market fields. Guntur is a busy city indulged in trade and transportation activities on a continuous basis. Apart from chillies, the city is also a prominent trader in the textile and transportation industry. Guntur is an essential part of the Visakhapatnam-Guntur industrial corridor.
Guntur is a part of Andhra Pradesh’s rich cultural past and houses the only Buddhist pilgrimage site called Nagarjunakonda, in South India. Guntur is close to major cities like Amaravathi and Hyderabad. Hence, it is a favourite weekend getaway for most tourists. Guntur can be added to your itinerary under places to visit in Andhra Pradesh in one day.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Nagarjunakonda
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Pilgrimage
Gandikota
There must arguably be no traveller who isn’t fascinated by the geological wonder called the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA. The rocky terrain formed in a unique pattern is one of the finest natural wonders on this globe. While going all the way to the US might not be everybody’s cup of tea, there is an alternative that could be easily accessed within our very own India! We are talking about a dainty village in Andhra Pradesh called Gandikota.
Nicknamed the ‘Grand Canyon of India’, Gandikota rests beside River Pennar and is popular for stunning gorges formed as a result of the river cutting through Erramala Hills. The village, which is a beauty in itself, is also home to — now in ruins — Gandikota Fort. The formidable structure is protected by deep gorges on both sides and a long wall. Gandikota, one of the main tourist places in Andhra Pradesh, is dotted with temple ruins and intimidating rock structures.
Best Time to Visit: All around the year
Major Attractions: Gandikota Fort, Erramala Hills
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Photography
Srisailam
Srisailam is one of the popular places to visit in Andhra Pradesh for pilgrimage. This hill town is home to Malikarjuna Jyotirlinga and also one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas of Goddess Parvati. The town is bespeckled with magnificent shrines and additionally, is renowned for its dam and wildlife sanctuary. If your agenda is solely pilgrimaging then make sure Lord Shiva’s Sikhareswara Swamy Temple is visited.
You can also extend your trip to the famous Bhramaramba Mallikarjunaswamy Temple which is perched upon a hilltop. The hills of Srisailam are flanked by the Nallamala forest range that boasts a wide variety of flora and fauna. This quaint village is ready to host you at any time of the year.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Major Attractions: Bhramaramba Mallikarjunaswamy Temple, Nallamala forest range
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Trekking, Pilgrimage
Anantapur
Anantapur is one of the fast-growing towns in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The town pulsates India’s esteemed past through ethnic traditions and values. Anantpur leaves the metronome ticking that merges the past and the future together. Officially known as Anantapuramu, this town experiences a dry climate throughout the year.
Anantapur experiences the second-lowest rainfall in India. The mighty Vijayanagar Empire has had a great influence on Anantapur and shards of the same could be easily discovered by you upon visiting this town. Anantapur derived its current name from Anaatasagaram meaning ‘Endless Ocean’. It is one of the major attractions in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Major Attractions: Architecture from the era of the Vijayanagar Empire
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Learn about the city’s history, photography
Bhavani Island
Bhavani Island is at a touching distance from Vijayawada. This vast island is located on the Krishna river and is a perfect spot to find some leisure time off your busy schedule. The island is named after a highly revered Hindu Goddess Bhavani. This lush green island can be accessed by a boat that starts from the banks of River Krishna. Water sport is an activity over here that you cannot miss.
Another popular attraction at Bhavani Island is witnessing the sunset. You can also choose to relax on a hammock with a picturesque view in front of your eyes and a favourite drink in your hand. It is one of the most famous places to visit in Andhra Pradesh for families.
Best Time to Visit: All around the year
Major Attractions: Krishna River
Ideal duration to explore: 1 day
Things to do: Water sports, Family vacation
Andhra Pradesh is a place where many dynasties and cultures grew and flourished. The same has left a permanent mark upon this state that reverbs India’s glorious past in every way. From traditions and architecture to food and art, every bit of Andhra Pradesh will teleport you to ancient India. This state is an ideal example of unity between the past, present and future.
While many travellers spend their time compiling places to visit in Kerala or any other tourism rich state in South India, Andhra Pradesh is often overlooked. Hope this article helps you dive deep into the tourist aspect of this relatively less explored state. One of the perks of visiting Andhra Pradesh is its weather. The tropic climate makes it an ideal vacation spot for 12 months of the year.
FAQ
What is the most beautiful place in Andhra Pradesh?
Andhra Pradesh is covered with places of natural beauty and historic, cultural and religious heritage. While it is difficult to segregate places for their beauty, it could be divided by popularity. Visakhapatnam, Amaravati, Bhavani Island and Srisailam among others are considered to be the most beautiful places in Andhra Pradesh.
What is famous in Andhra Pradesh?
Just like any other state in South India, Andhra Pradesh is dotted with places of natural beauty and rich history. The most famous landmark of the state is Tirupati. Apart from that, monuments like Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Gandikota Fort are some of the famous attractions. The state is also famous for its Hyderabadi biryani.
What is the coolest place in Andhra Pradesh?
While Andhra Pradesh mostly experiences a tropic climate, there are a few exceptions to the same. Hilly areas like Lambasingi, Chintapalle, Araku Valley and Horsley Hills are some of the coolest places in Andhra Pradesh.