Andhra Pradesh is home to one of the most-visited Indian destinations: Tirupati. But there’s so much more to the southern state than meets the eye. Here, we list some of the must-explore hidden gems of Andhra Pradesh. By Karan Kaushik
Known for its historic forts, stunning temples, soft sandy beaches, and fast-paced urban centres, Andhra Pradesh is a traveller’s delight. From eco-tourism hubs to wildlife havens and adventure activities like surfing and trekking, the state has it all. Not to forget the spellbinding valleys, sloping hill ranges with dense covers and historical caves that add to Andhra’s charm. The state has its fair share of untouched places, that serve as a welcome departure from the touristy chaos.
9 hidden gems of Andhra Pradesh you must explore
Lambasingi
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Known as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh, Lambasingi is a small village in the Eastern Ghats. Often touted as the only region in southern India to receive snowfall, this hill station is shrouded in white mists with whiffs of coffee and pepper plantations swirling in the air. Lambasingi’s prime attraction is the Kothapally Waterfalls. Any trip to Lambasingi would be incomplete without a trek to the Lambasingi View Point. Located at a short distance from the village bus stand, the vantage point can be reached after a challenging but rewarding hike. Other attractions include Susan Garden, Thajangi Reservoir, Bojjannakonda, and Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary.
Dindi
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Dindi, also known as Coconut County, is cradled in the Konaseema delta in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district. The extremely fertile soil of the region supports the cultivation of both, paddy and coconut. Picture a vast, open land covered with young, lime-coloured paddy fringed with thick palm leaves, with soft, white clouds floating past the mighty Eastern Ghats in the background—that’s Dindi in a nutshell for you. While you’re in Dindi, take a few hours out to explore the Sagara Sangamam, or ‘sea confluence’, where the River Godavari, after cutting across most of the Deccan Plateau, gently flows into the Bay of Bengal. This place is particularly famous for spotting dolphins.
Pulicat Lake
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The historic seashore town of Pulicat is known for its old-world charm and birding opportunities. Located in the Thiruvallur district, Pulicat is home to Pulicat Lake, which serves as a birdwatching haven between the months of October and March. Flamingos are the main lure at the swampland attached to the lake. The town once served as a settlement for the Dutch during the early 17th century. Even though the fort that the Dutch built here does not exist anymore, the colonial charm can be experienced at the lighthouse here. Pulicat is also famous for its palm leave handicrafts made by local women. Seafood lovers can expect a rewarding gastronomical experience.
Yaganti
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Next up on our list of hidden gems of Andhra Pradesh is Yaganti. Located in the Kurnool district, this little town is famous for its stunning temples. The Yaganti Temple is the most popular among all. Constructed by King Harihara Bukka Rayalu of the Sangama Dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire, the temple dates to the 15th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, his consort Goddess Parvati and Nandi. The highlight here is the tranquil pond called Pushkarini, which stands in the middle of the Yaganti temple complex.
Silathoranam
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If you are visiting Tirupati anytime soon, make sure to include Silathoranam in your itinerary. History and nature lovers from all corners of India gather here to marvel at the natural rock formation. The natural bridge or arch is one-of-its-kind in Asia. The shape of the rock formation resembles that of a serpent’s hood and conch. It is said that Lord Venkateswara’s idol at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is of the same height as Silathoronam.
Talakona
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This quaint place should be visited for its magnificent waterfall. Talakona waterfalls are housed within the Sri Venkateswara National Park in Chittoor. Water roars down a cliff, into a valley from a height of 270 feet here and that, along with the dense forests around it, make it a sight to behold. This is the largest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. Local lore states that the water here is enriched with healing herbs and the region was declared a biosphere reserve in 1990 due to the diverse set of medicinal plant species here. The thrilling trek to the waterfall begins from the Siddeswara Swamy temple.
Uppada
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Uppada, a village near Kakinada, is famous for the Uppada Jamdani saris. These beautiful pieces of art were once woven exclusively for the erstwhile royal families of Andhra, and are known for their lightness and beautiful drape. When here, you can interact with the local weavers and buy a saree or two. The pristine Uppada Beach is the most popular attraction in Uppada. Most people come here during the evening hours to watch the sunset from the rocks on the seashore.
Hope Island
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The peaceful Hope Island is also located in Kakinada. The tadpole-shaped island will introduce you to the unmatched beauty of mainland India. The best way to explore Hope Island is by taking a boat ride to the island. Hope Island serves as a natural protection for Kakinada from heavy storms that emerge from the Bay of Bengal. Major attractions here are the Kakinada harbour and the Godavari point, the northern-most part of the island.
Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
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This little-known birding haven is the largest surviving patch of Mangrove forests in Andhra Pradesh. It is home to as many as 65 species of Mangrove trees like Rhizophora, Avicennia, Sonneratia, and Aegiceros. The wildlife sanctuary inhabits rare and endangered species like Smooth Indian Otter, Fishing Cat, and Estuarine Crocodile. The diverse fauna here includes jackals, otters, fishing cats, and marine turtles, among others. Commonly spotted birds are storks, herons, snipes, ducks, flamingos, and seagulls.
Feature and hero image courtesy: Vihang Ghalsasi / Shutterstock.com
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