From the unspoilt beaches of Vishakhapatnam to the green paddy fields of Nellore district and from the Pulasa Fish of Rajahmundry to the spiritual centre like Puttaparthi, everything in the state of Andhra Pradesh is distinct and alluring. As a tourist, one may want to explore places with rich history; high spiritual definition; profuse natural splendors and remarkable culture and trust us Andhra Pradesh offer just that! The land of Nizams, Pearls Kalamkari, Kondapalli Toys, Scrumptious Food and Amiable People, Andhra Pradesh is certainly a destination that needs to be explored on India tour. Here are some of the best places to visit in Andhra Pradesh for you.
Vishakhapatnam
Probably one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam is a place that every nature lover should visit. Fondly called Vizag, this city is not only a beach destination in Andhra, but a land with vivid landscape. Lakes, beaches, caves, valleys and hill ranges all make Vishakhapatnam a must-visit place in Andhra Pradesh. Apart from natural splendors, Vizag is enriched with architectural grandeurs, the spiritual centres or temples are the best specimen of the architecture in the city.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- R K Beach
- VUDA Park
- Visakha Museum
- Submarine Museum
- Bheemunipatnam Beach
- Araku Valley
- Kailasa Giri
- Borra Caves
- Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
- imhachalam Temple
- Temple of Arasavalli Sun God
- Buddhist Shrines
How to Reach: Vishakhapatnam has good transport facilities. The city is well-connected by air, rail and road. So, one can decide which mode to use accordingly.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Tirupati
Famed for its temple, Tirupati is the popular spiritual hub in Andhra Pradesh. Tirupati is in the Chitoor distrct of Aandhra Pradesh and it houses the famous Hindu temple of Sri Venkateswara that is frequented by millions of devotees each year. Apart from temples, Tirupati is known for red wooden toys and it is also a major educational centre in the state.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Goddess Alamelumanga Temple
- Tirumala Venkateswara Swamy Temple
- Kanipakam, Srikalahasti Temple
- Chandragiri Fort
- Horsley Hills
- Silathoranam
- TTDC Garden
How to Reach: At a distance of 15kms from the main city, Tirupati airport is situated in the Renigunta region. Flights to Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore operate from here. Tirupati also has good rail connectivity. From Tirupati Railway Station trains to Bangalore, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Mumbai are available. Road transport is also well-maintained in Tirupati, buses from all major cities of South India are available.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Vijayawada
Located on the bank of Krishna River, Vijayawada is known for its luscious mangoes, tasty sweets and beautiful spring season. The city is also famed for having the largest railway junction in South India. Once an important town during the Vijayanagra Kingdom, Vijayawada is replete with heritage edifices and natural splendors like caves and hills and is one of the must-see places in Andhra Pradesh.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Kondapalli Fort
- Mogalarajapuram Caves
- Kanaka Durga Temple
- Bhavani Island
- Prakasam Barrage
- Undavalli Caves
- Kuchipudi
- Mary’s Church
- Rajiv Gandhi Park
- Gandhi Hill
- Mogalarajapuram Caves
- Hazratbal Mosque
- Mangalagiri
- Manginapudi Beach
How to Reach: Vijayawada airport is situated 20kms from the city of Gannavarman. Regular flights to Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam operate from Vijayawada. Rail transport is also easy as Vijayawada is a major railhead in Andhra Pradesh. Road transport is well-maintained; there are many state and interstate buses available on regular intervals from Vijayawada.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year
Nellore
Nellore boasts of an incredible spiritual and religious legacy in Andhra Pradesh. Having significance as a historic centre, Nellore is probably one of the places that might intrigue every history buff. At Nellore the evidences available with regard to its contribution to arts and literature since prehistoric times highlight its rich cultural past. Also, the city is known for the production of ores such as mica and lime and agriculture production of rice. The city is also admired for aquaculture and delicious sweets like Malai Kajaa and the Bobbatlu.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Krishna Mandir
- Penchalakona
- Rangatha Temple
- Pulicat Lake
- Jonnawada
- Udayagiri Fort
- Venkatagiri Fort
- Nellapattu Bird Sanctuary
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Mypad Beach
- Barah Shaheed Dargah
- Narasimhaswamy Temple
- Patu ru
- Ramalingeswara Temple
- Ranganayaka Temple
- Somasila
How to Reach: The best way to reach Nellore would be to board a train, as the Railway Station of Nellore is well-connected with major cities of India. Road transport is also decent, as there are several buses that ply between Nellore and major cities of Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Reach: October to March
Chittoor
Horsley Hills, Photo: Flickr
One of the most beautiful districts, Chittoor is a popular place to visit in Andhra Pradesh. Rich in flora and fauna and having copious historic significance, Chittoor certainly is an epic land in the state. It is to be mentioned that Chittoor has some of the richest temples in the world and this district has a perfect blend of various elements to satisfy people of spiritual, religious and artistic mindset.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Horsley Hills
- Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kalavagunta
- Gurramkonda Fort
- Nagari Hills
- Sri Venkateswara Temple
- Mogili
- Ramagiri
How to Reach: The best way to reach Chittoor would be by train. There are railway stations at Chittoor (CTO), Piler (PIL), Gudupalli (GDP), Kotala (KEN), Yerpedu (YPD) that have trains connecting Chittoor to major cities of the country.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Anantapur
The westernmost district of Andhra Pradesh, Anantapur is a hub of culture and history. Anantapura is famous as it is the birthplace of Sri Satya Sai Baba. This beautiful district has several temples and apart from it, the entire district is known for silk trade. Anantapur was also a significant part of the Vijayanagar Kingdom, thus along with being a religious hub, the district is also an exemplary example of architecture.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Puttaparthi
- Hindupur
- Guntakal
- Dharmavaram
- Kadiri
- Gooty
- Tadipatri
- Hemavathi
- Penukonda
- Lepakshi
- Tadipatri
- Penna Ahobilam
- Thimmamma Marrimanu (Banayan Tree)
- Yogi Vemana Samadhi
- Gugudu, Yadiki Caves
How to Reach: The best way to reach Anantapur is by train. There are railway stations like Anantapur (ATP), Virapur (VP), Somalapuram (SLM), Basampalle (BSPL), Narayanapuram (NRYP), Taticherla (TAC) from where trains are available for major cities in India.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Kurnool
Situated on the southern bank of River Handri and Tungabhadra, Kurnool is reckoned to be one of the gateways to Hindu Pilgrimage Sri Sailam. Kurnool is an excellent place for history buffs as the place is full of historical monuments that offer the glimpse of fine ancient architecture. It is believed that Kurnool is a 2000 years old city, thus one has the opportunity to walk down the historic lanes and learn more about the rich past of this destination.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Srisailam
- Srisailam Tiger Reserve
- Mantralayan
- Mahanadi
- Belum Caves
- Rollapdu Sanctuary
- Ahobilam
- Yaganti
- Alampur
- Gadwal
- Konda Reddy Buruju
- Kalva-Bugga
- Jagannatha Hill
- Konda Reddy Fort
How to Reach: Train is the best way to reach Kurnool as the Kurnool Railway Station is well-connected to several major cities of India. Kurnool also have a good road transport system, there are several state and inter-state buses that ply to and fro regularly.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Kadapa
Replete with resplendent architectural marvels, Kadapa is one of the best places to see in Andhra Pradesh. Bounded on the three sides by the Nallamala and Palakonda hills, Kadapa is also known as ‘Gateway’ city to Tirumala. Kadapa was ruled by different kingdoms over the years and thus it has left this place with a rich cultural influence. It is believed that one of the seven Kandas of the Ramayana, Kishkindakanda might have happened in Vontimitta,which is situated at a distance of just 20 Kms from the Kadapa.
Major Attractions:
- Bhagwan Mahavir Museum
- Gandikota Fort
- Sri Venkataswara Sanctuary
- Pushpagiri
- Ameen Peer Dargah
- Brahmamgari Matam Temple
- Masjid-e-Azam
- Sidhout Fort
How to Reach: Kadapa Railway Station has trains that connect it some of the major cities in India. There are regular trains to Chennai, Bangalore, Mangalore, Coimbatore and Hyderabad.
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Srikalahasti
It is one of the most important religious cities in Andhra Pradesh. Also, the city is known as one of the significant Shiva Kshetras of South India. Srikalahasti is regarded as one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams of Lord Shiva; the other four includes Tiruvannamalai, Thiruvanaikaval, Chidambaram and Kanchipuram. The legend has it that Arjuna (from Mahabharata) visited this place and worshipped Kalahastiswara (form of Lord Shiva).
Major Attractions:
- Gudimallam Temple
- Srikalahasti Temple
- Thondamanadu Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple
- Bhakta Kannappa Temple
- Sahasra Linga Temple
- Talakona Waterfall
How to Reach: Train is the best way to reach Srikalahasti. There are direct trains to destinations like Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Hyderabad and Pune along with trains to several cities of Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ongole
Ongole is yet another religious centre in Andhra Pradesh. Boasting of its rich legacy of spirituality and heritage, Ongole has become quite popular amongst travellers who are seeking to explore Andhra Pradesh to its core. Ongole is also one of the key centers for tobacco trading in Andhra Pradesh. The city offers fun activities at the beach, treat to the eyes with its natural beauty and peace to the soul with its surrounding serenity.
Major Attractions:
- Kothapatnam Beach
- Chennakesava Swamy Temple
- Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir
- Kashi Visweswara Swamy Temple
- Tangutur
- Voderevu Beach
How to Reach: Ongole has its own Railway Station, which is connected to the major cities like New Delhi, Bangalore, Mysore, Lucknow, Chennai, Kanyakumari, Puri, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and Howrah
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Puttaparthi
Puttaparthi is renowned as a spiritual learning centre. Abode of famous saint Sathaya Sai Baba, this place is probably the most popular destination in Andhra Pradesh. This lively village is located on the bank of River Chitravathi and is surrounded by some rugged hills. There are numerous attractive tourist spots including famous temples and other places that attract large number of travellers not only from India but from all over the world.
Major Attractions:
- Sri Sathya Sai Space Theatre
- Chaitanya Jyoti Museum
- Prasanthi Nilayam
How to Reach: Although the best way to reach Puttaparthi would be train as the Puttaparthi Railway Station is well-connected with many cities of India, but taking a flight can also be a good option. The domestic airport called Sri Sathya Sai Airport has regular flights to Mumbai and Chennai, and offers bi-weekly flights to Chennai and Mumbai.
Best Time to Visit: September to February
Rajahmundry
Also known as the Culture Capital of the state, Rajahmundry is one of the most visited places in Andhra Pradesh. Having a rich historic past, today, Rajahmundry is a famous pilgrimage centre in the state. There are numerous temples like Pushkarama that grabs the attention of the devotees here. The city also shares a special bond with Tollywood as its scenic spot called Pattiseema, sees the shooting of many a Telugu movies every year. Rajahmundry is also famous for Pulasa Fish, which is a rare species found only during the monsoon season.
Major Attractions:
- Swami Vivekananda Statue
- River Bay Resort
- Dhavaleshwaram Barrage
- Kambala Park
How to Reach: Rajahmundry has well-maintained transport system. One can choose to travel by train, flight or bus depending upon the distance from Rajahmundry.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year
Secunderabad
One of the two cities that make twin-cities in Andhra Pradesh, Secunderabad is certainly worth exploring. Reflecting the rich culture and tradition of the state, this city is an absolute delight to be visited. The rich cultural history and serene environment makes it an ideal destination for both history and nature lovers.
Major Attractions:
- Trimulgherry Fort
- Rashtrapati Nilayam
- Golconda Fort
- Hussain Sagar Lake
- Konaseema
- Birla Mandir
- Birla Planetarium
- Saidanimba Tomb
- All Saints’ Church
How to Reach: Secunderabad has a very well-maintained transport system. One can easily travel by flight, train and bus to Secunderabad depending upon the availability and distance.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Amalapuram
Filled natural splendor and grace, Amalapuram is one of the most preferred nature destination in Andhra Pradesh. Picturesque landscapes, plenty of palm trees and dense coconut grooves with canals running through at various places, the vistas offered at Amalapuram are so pleasurable and certainly beyond description. The town has some of the most famous temples in Andhra Pradesh like Amaleswara, Sidheswara and Chandramouleeswara. Since it is the land of five important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is also called Panchalingapuram.
Major Attractions:
- GMC Balayogi Memorial
- Appanapalli Temple
- Ainavilli Siddhi Vinayaka Temple
- Sree Veereswara Swamy Temple
- Allavaram Beach
- Ramalingeswara
- Chandramouleeswara
- Ganesh Temple
- Mukteswara Swami temple
- Vireswara temple
- Loppulinheswara Swami Temple
How to Reach: The best way to reach Amalapuram would be to take a flight till Rajahmundry and then book a cab or board a bus. One can also take a train till Palakollu and then take a bus/cab to Amalapuram
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Srikakulam
Srikakulam is located on the left bank of river Nagavali. Formerly known as Chicacole, Srikakulam has great potentials to become a popular tourist spot in Andhra Pradesh. Tourist spots in Srikakulam include Buddhist locations at Salihundam and Danthapuram, pilgrim centres like Srikurmam, Srimukhalingam, Arasavilli and Ravivalasa. Along with this, there are beaches, bird watching spots and many other places to unwind, relax and rejuvenate.
Major Attractions:
- Jamia Masjid
- Sri Koteswara Swamy Temple
- Sri Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple
- Sri Kurmam Shrine
- Kalingapatnam Beach
- Mogadalapaadu Beach
- Baaruva Village
- Bhaavanapaadu Village
- Kaviti (Uddanam) Beach
- Mettu Guda Waterfall
- Sunnapugedda Waterfall
- Kusumi Waterfall
- Teli Neelapuram Village
- Telikunchi Village
How to Reach: Train is the best way to reach Srikakulam as there are regular trains to several major cities of India.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Lepakshi
Situated in Anantapura district, Lepakshi has been a favourite haunt for many travellers in Andhra Pradesh. Lepakshi is culturally and historically significant location as it houses shrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Veerabhadra which were built during the Vijayanagara reigning period (1336–1646). It is not that after the construction of Veerabhadra Temple, Lepakshi became popular,but if the legends are to be believed Lepakshi had great significance earlier as well. Today, a large number of devotees as well as tourists throng Lepakshi making it one of the important places to visit in Andhra Pradesh
Major Attractions:
- Veerabhadra Temple
- Monolithic Nandi
How to Reach: In order to reach Lepakshi, the ideal way would be to take a train till Anantapur and then hire a cab or board a bus to reach the destination.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Guntur
Located around 60 km from the Bay of Bengal, Guntur is considered the hub of learning and administration. It is amongst the most developed cities in the state and has its history traced back to 500 BC. Guntur houses several parks, museums, nature conservation sites, forts, resorts and caves. The landmark places include Uppalapadu Nature Conservation, Viswa Nagar Viswayogi Viswamji and the Universal Integration Pillar. Guntur offers a good blend of nature and historic sites, thus it can be a great place to head out to when variety is being seeked.
Major Attractions:
- Kondaveedu Fort
- Kotappakonda
- Sitanagaram
- Uppalapadu Nature Conservation
- Mangalagiri
How to Reach: The best way to reach Guntur is by train. There are many regular trains that connect Guntur with major cities of India.
Best Time to Visit: September to February
Eluru
Situated off the coast between Vishakhapatnam and Vijayawada, Eluru has a rich cultural and political history. Eluru is enclosed by several splendors of nature that add to the charm of this small yet beautiful place. The city is well known for its paddy, coconut and tobacco exports along with green chilies (mainly to Maharashtra) and a very large number of sweet water fish. A quiet place to unwind, Eluru is one destination that should not be missed on Andhra Pradesh tour.
Major Attractions:
- Kolleru Lake
- Dwaraka Tirumala
- Buddha Park
- Guntupalli Caves
- Holy land Replica
How to Reach: Eluru can easily be reached by train, there are number of regular trains to Eluru that connects it with major cities of Andhra Pradesh and its neighbouring states.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Amaravati
In Guntur district Amaravati is probably the most famous destination. The town is a pilgrimage center to both Hindus and Buddhists. It is also well known for the temple dedicated to the God Siva. The place had also served as the capital of Satavahanas, who reigned from the 2nd century BC to the 3rd century during the downfall of Mauryan Empire. Therefore, Amaravati has some delightful architecture that pleases every history buff.
Major Attractions:
- Dhyan Buddha Statue
- The Stupa,
- Amareswara (Siva) temple
How to Reach: The best way to reach Amaravati is by first reaching Guntur by train. Guntur is only at a distance of 33kms from Amaravati. Thus cabs and buses are available for Amaravati from Guntur.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Adoni
Adoni was an important part of the Vijayanagara Kingdom in Andhra Pradesh. The city is known for its mythological as well as historical legacy, it is believed during his exile Lord Rama frequented this place. Adoni is a beautiful city in the Kurnool district; it is most famous for its grand fort. Adoni Falls on Bangalore-Chennai Rail line is another attraction here apart from the gold and cloth market.
Major Attractions:
- Ranamandala Swamy Temple
- Adoni Fort
- Jumma Masjid
- Laxmamma Avva Temple
- Kaman Bavi
- Venkanna Bavi
- Baichigeri Sai Baba Ashramam
How to Reach: Regular trains to Adoni are available from major cities of Andhra Pradesh and of other states. Buses also ply on regular basis.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Machilipatnam
Once a thriving port and textile centre, Machilipatnam is an important part of Krishna district. The city was occupied by Dutch and French, thus today, we can trace ruins that are ornate in their style of architecture. A giant tidal wave once hit Machilipatnam and since then the city lost its importance as a port but its Kalamkari work has helped it stay in the list of popular places in Andhra Pradesh.
Major Attractions:
- Dattashram
- Panduranga Swamy Temple
- Agastheeswara Temple
- Jodugudlu Temple
- Manginapudi Beach
How to Reach: There are regular trains from other major cities of India to Machilipatnam.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Prakasam
Tracing its history to the Mauryan Period, Prakasam is yet another lovely place to visit in Andhra Pradesh. This district saw the rise of the Satavahanas, Buddhism in the region and the construction of several stupas. Since, the district was ruled by different dynasties a distinct imprint on the cultural landscape of the district can be seen. Prakasam is an ideal place for history lovers as this place has lots to offer to them.
Major Attractions:
- Bhairava Kona Caves
- Singarayakonda
- Chirala
- Motupalli
- Chandavaram
- Tripurantakam
- Markapur
- Vodarevu
- Kothapatnam Beach
How to Reach: The most convenient way to reach Prakasam is via Ongole. One can board a train till Ongole (84kms from Prakasam) and then take a bus or hire a cab to reach Prakasam.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Hyderabad
The fifth largest city in India, Hyderabad is the capital of the newly form state of Telangana and the former capital of Andhra Pradesh. Since, it has been the major tourist destination when it was the part of Andhra Pradesh for so long, one must not ignore this place. So, as an exception, we would like to add Hyderabad to the list. The city’s sights include the grand palaces, colourful bazaar and mosques. Divided into parts, the Old City and the new one, Hyderabad is a perfect blend of modern and old and this is what makes this city a preferable place for all kinds of travellers. Yes, food is also the highlight of the city; no one forgets the distinct taste of Hyderabadi Biryani and Haleem. The Irani Chai/Tea is also one thing that is savoured much in the city.
Major Attractions:
- Charminar
- Nizam’s Museum
- Salar Jung Museum
- Badshahi Ashurkhana
- Falaknuma Palace
- Mecca Masjid
- Laad Bazaar
- Golconda Fort
How to Reach: Hyderabad is a well-connected city; therefore it is easy to reach here. All three means of transport namely, Rail, Road and Air connect to all major cities of India.
Best Time to Visit: October to March