Monday 8 December 2014

Kothapatnam beach, named after the nearby Kothapatnam village, is located, 18 kms away from the city of Ongole in Prakasham district of Andhra Pradesh.
It is a place still unaffected by the modernization and has a soothing and natural tone to its existence, accompanied by the splashing sea waves, and the picturesque surroundings with boats lined up to the shore.
Kothapatnam has few nearby attractions, they are, Suryalanka beach in Bapatla city which is 38 kms from Ongole, and the Kondaveedu fort in Narsaraopet which is 51 kms from Ongole. In addition to that, thousands of people visit this beach during Karthik Purnima (month of October or November) to take a holy dip in the sea water.
As this beach is located in a secluded place, there are not much options to eat. But yes, the city of Ongole, 18 kms away has options of good Andhra cuisines, and other dishes to satiate tourist’s taste buds. There are nearby tourist lodges too that offer good accommodation as well as good food.
How to reach
By Road: There are state buses, private buses, and private cars/taxis available from the nearest city of Ongole from where this beach can be reached directly by road.
By Rail: The nearest city of Ongole has a railway station which can be reached from Hyderabad, which is connected by proper rail network with other parts of the country. From there one can follow the road journey to Kothapatnam beach.
By Air: The nearest Airport is in Hyderabad, which is connected to a proper airway network with the rest of the country.
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Kothapatnam Beach,Andhra Pradesh,India

Saturday 6 December 2014

Gandikota is a small village in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh that is known for its spectacular gorge formed by river Pennar that cuts through the Erramala hills. 
This piece of Nature’s architecture has come to be known as the Hidden Grand Canyon of India by travelers who visit it and get bewitched by its beauty.
There are several other attractions in and near the village that allure visitors, the most special being the ancient, magnificent Gandikota fort that sits majestically on top of the gorge. Apart from the unmatched beauty of the gorge, the mystical charm of this fort makes a visit to this village all the more exciting for history lovers and adventure seekers.
Gandikota, also known as Grand Canyon of India is a fort built in 12th century with red granite stones. The fort is protected by a deep gorge on one side, several hundred meters long and deep, with gigantic boulders scattered all around. Camping under the stars here would be a memorable night.
The hot climate here is as rugged as the terrain; Gandikota, being in the southern part of India, remains hot throughout most of the year and the best time to visit it would be between the months of August and February when the weather is pleasant.

Gandikota,Andhra Pradesh,India

Thursday 4 December 2014

Kothapalli is a village in Gangaraju Madugula Mandal, near Paderu in Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh.  A recent find by locals, this waterfall is gaining popularity but lacks any public infrastructure. 
A completely unexplored waterfalls of Araku Valley, you must not miss out a visit here when you are in Lambasingi. This rocky waterfalls serves well for a picnic spot and enjoy the beauty of nature.

At a distance of 38 Kms from Araku and 4 km from Borra, this 120+ feet high cascading waterfall is situated at dence forest near Borra Caves. Needing a combination of walk and trek, this water fall is perfectly placed in one of the dense patch of forest in the area. Originating at Ghostani River the water fall needs tourists to cover 100 steps and 2 km long trek amidst the thick greens to reach.
The waterfall attracting large number of tourists interest with its beautiful cascading waterfalls. To reach this place, number of Buses, Cabs and Auto Rickshaws are available from Narsipatnam.
How to Reach
By Air - Nearest Airport is Vishakhapatnam from where curvy roads to Araku Valley can be relied on.
By Rail - Araku Valley has two railway stations that are on Eastern coastal line. It is a great way to journey to the valley, as the views from rail are quite enchanting passing through bridges and tunnels.
By Road - From Vizag the route is quite clear for a road travel. Those coming from everywhere else, they generally have to reach Vizag to reach to Araku Valley.
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Kothapally Waterfalls,Andhra Pradesh,India

Tuesday 2 December 2014

Considered to be one of the safest, Bheemunipatnam beach is located at the mouth of Gosthani river in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh.
The name of the beach is derived from a Hindu mythological tale. Bheema killed the devil Bakasura and it is believed the demon was killed where the beach is situated. Hence, the name Bheemunipatnam. The beach is also called by the name Bheemli beach.
The beach, located about 24 km from Visakhapatnam, is known for its soft golden sand, blue water and groves of coconut trees. The beach is the considered to be the safest beach for swimming.
Bheemunipatnam was an important Buddhist centre. Evidence of Buddhism dating back to the second century have been found on the Pavuralakonda hillock, which surrounds the beach. Several Buddhist remains have been found during excavation. Another attraction of the beach is the lighthouse, which is in ruins.
Attractions in the vicinity of the beach are the Bhimili Bhimeswara Swamy temple, built in 1226 by Salivahana Saka and the Erramattidibbalu, formation of red stands, mostly used for film shooting.
The town on its banks is filled with numerous pilgrim centers, old churches and temples which offer a soothing sight for the visitors at Bheemunipatnam Beach. The clock tower, light house and the port adds to the charm of the place.
How to Reach
By Bus: Travellers can choose to go on a Visakhapatnam trip by bus. Dwarka bus stand is the 3rd largest bus station in Andhra Pradesh and this where you need to go when on a Visakhapatnam trip by bus. Visakhapatnam visit by bus is the best way to get to know the beauty and essence of this wonderful place.
By Train: Visakhapatnam is located on one of the busiest rail routes in the country. It has rail connectivity to almost all places in India. Regular trains to Visakhapatnam from both North and South are available as it stands on the Chennai-Howrah central line.
By Air: Visakhapatnam airport is one of the very few airbases in India which is being used for military as well as public purposes.
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Bheemunipatnam Beach,Andhra Pradesh,India

Monday 24 November 2014

Yarada Beach is surrounded by hills from three sides and Bay of Bengal on the fourth side. Located in close vicinity of the destination, the beach is dotted with lush green surroundings and soft golden sands. 
Yarada Beach is a well-kept local secret, surrounded by rocky hills. It is not crowded and best suited for small groups half day outing in a very secluded and natural environment at this beach.
Yarada Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches of Andhra Pradesh that still retains its natural beauty and charm.
The beach is an ideal tourist spot for nature lovers as they can capture beautiful views of sunrise and sunsets on this huge coastline.
How to reach
By RoadState and private buses are available from the nearest city of Visakhapatnam to reach Yarada beach.
By RailVisakhapatnam has its own rail station which is well connected with the other major cities and towns of India by proper railway network. From there private cars/taxis can be hired to reach Yarada.
By Air : The nearest airport is in Visakhapatnam which is well-connected by flights that come from Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi and other major cities of India.
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Yarada Beach,Andhra Pradesh,India

Saturday 22 November 2014

The lovely Rishikonda Beach here with golden sands and vast stretch of water is considered the best beach in Vizag. 
The unspoiled beauty of the beach is its main attraction and offers a unique opportunity to relax and enjoy the golden sands, palm trees and cool breeze. The beach is a haven for watersports lovers and one can enjoy water skiing, speed boating, sunbathing, wind surfing and swimming.

There is a 14th century temple on Rishikonda beach called Sapta Rusheswara Temple.
Here you can venture in to the beach or you can take boat ride ( Avoid country boats) and adventurous activities like parasailing and surfing are planned. You can opt to gaze around with a cup of coffee and look at the vast spaces changing hues during the day and night.

How to Reach
By Air
There are regular flights from prominent cities to Vishakhapatnam. The airport is about 15 km from Rishikonda beach. Flights come to Vishakhapatnam from Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkatta.
By Rail
The city is well connected by rail also. Chennai-Howrah rail link and Howrah-Secundrabad link connects Vishakhapatnam with other cities of the state.
By Road
States like Odisha and Madhaya Pradesh are connected to Vishakhapatnam through a properly developed road network. Both private and state transport buses ply on the National Highway Number 5 to allow visitors reach Rishikonda beach.
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Rishikonda Beach,Andhra Pradesh,India

Thursday 20 November 2014

Mangalagiri is a quaint town in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. Literally translating to 'The Auspicious Hill', this place is one of the 8 important Mahakshetrams or sacred destinations in India.
There are three Narasimha Swamy temples in Mangalagiri. The temple on the hill is that of Lord Panakala Narasimha Swamy and it is said that the lord has been worshipped since the beginning of the Satya Yug.
In addition to its Vishnu temples, places of tourist interest around Mangalagiri include Chinna Jeeyar ashram in Seeta Nagaram, Vundavalli Caves, Bhavani Island, Kanakadurga temple in Vijayawada direction and Jain Temple, Uppalapadu Birds sanctuary, Amaravati in Guntur direction.
The Vaishnav temples of Mangalgiri attract devotees and pilgrims from all over the country. 
How to Reach Mangalagiri
Mangalagiri Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swami temple is located 12 kilometres from Vijayawada and 25 Kilometres from Guntur. You can reach the temple by steps or through Ghat road. Buses ply from Vijayawada to Mangalagiri as well.
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Mangalagiri,Andhra Pradesh,India

Tuesday 18 November 2014

The picturesque hill fort at Kondapalli is situated in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh State. 16 km northwest of Vijayawada city, it is locally known as Kondapalli Quilla. It is believed that the Kondapalli Fort have been founded by the Eastern Chalukya in the 8C, before being occupied by Prolaya Vema Reddy in the 14th Century.
The lower fort, can be entered through three succuessive gates at the foot of the hill. The path is thickly overgrown with jungle and cactus. The barracks within the wall are ruined. The climb of the hill is by way of a path winding between two ridges, climbing up for more than 1 km, mostly by way of a stone staircase.

The fort has many towers and battlements. At the far end of the Fort complex is the Tanisha Mahal which is in the crest in between two hills.
The surrounding Kondapalli village is well known for its brightly painted wooden Kondapalli toys, locally known as 'Kondapalli Bommalu'. 
The toys have a great demand in both national and international markets. The Kondapalli Fort and the famous Kondapalli toys makes it a must visit when in Vijayawada.
How to Reach
Air :
The nearest airport is at Gannavaram, situated 24kms from Vijayawada city. It is a mid-sized domestic airport and flights are available to Hyderabad and Chennai, thrice a day.
Rail : 
Vijayawada is the largest and most important railway junction of South Central Railway. A number of express and superfast trains connect Vijayawada to the rest of the country. It lies along the Chennai-Howrah and Chennai- Delhi route.
Bus :
Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) buses connect Vijayawada to all places within the state as well as to all major cities in India. Tourist Taxis, Metered Taxis, Auto rickshaws are available for local transport.
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Kondapalli Fort,Andhra Pradesh,India

Sunday 16 November 2014

Bhavani island is a picturesque spot blessed by the placid waters and is one of the most favored travel attraction of Vijayawada visited by the locals as well as tourists with equal zest. 
Surrounded by mangroves and manicured gardens, Bhavani Island is the perfect destination for enjoying evening walks amidst the serenity, fresh air and lush green surroundings of this place.
One can enjoy boat ride and swimming here with the amazing facilities offered by the Andhra Pradesh Tourist Development Corporation. One can also indulge in adventure activities and water sports in this island.
This place seems to have good boarding and lodging options being run by the Andhra Tourism department. 
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest International Airport from Bhavani-Island is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, roughly four and half hour drive from Bhavani-Island.
By Rail
The nearest Railway Station is located in Vijayawada named as Vijayawada Railway Station, roughly 7 Kms from Bhavani-Island.  It serves as a transit point for many important trains.
By Road
It is connected through Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) and some private travel services.
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Bhavani Island,Andhra Pradesh,India

Friday 14 November 2014

At a distance of 2 km from Vijayawada Railway Station, Prakasam Barrage is a 1223.5 meter long modern regulator and Road Bridge built across the River Krishna and is located at the southern entrance of Vijayawada.
The beautiful backwaters formed by the barrage give the city a unique setting with the backdrop of Kanakadurga Hill. 
The barrage was first built by Sir Arthur Cotton in 1855 and later reconstructed in the 1950s. This is one of the earliest major irrigation projects in Southern India. It was named after the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Tanguturi Prakasam.
Besides irrigation, the dam provides a spectacular view of the lake and has become a major tourist attraction of Vijayawada. 
 How to Reach
By Rail
Kolanukonda RailWay Station,Krishna Canal Rail Way Station are the very nearby railway station to Prakasam Barrage Road, Sitanagaram, Vijayawada, Krishna. However Vijayawada Jn Rail Way Station is major railway station 7 KM near to Prakasam Barrage Road, Sitanagaram, Vijayawada, Krishna 
By Road
Mangalagiri , Vijayawada are the nearby by towns to Tadepalle having road connectivity to Tadepalle and Prakasam Barrage Road, Sitanagaram, Vijayawada, Krishna
By Bus
Pedavadlapudi APSRTC Bus Station , Vijayawada APSRTC Bus Station , Benz Circle APSRTC Bus Station are the nearby by Bus Stations to Prakasam Barrage Road, Sitanagaram, Vijayawada, Krishna .APSRTC runs Number of busses from major cities to here. 

Prakasam Barrage,Andhra Pradesh,India

Wednesday 12 November 2014

Located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, the holy city of Srikalahasti is a popular tourist destination due to its famous Srikalahasti Temple, one of the most important Shiva temples of South India built during the ancient Pallava period. Overflowing with rich and vivacious yesteryears, this place has showcased its potential to allure the visitors with its extravagant shrines and pristine beauty.
Kalahasti is a fine example of south Indian architecture where highly adorned gopurams and extensively carved interiors unfold the magnificent charms of Dravidian structural designs.
Srikalahasti is a quaint temple town which can be explored in one day. The main reason why people visit this place is for the temples.
How to reach
By Air
The nearest Domestic Airport is Tirupati Airport, Chittoor, roughly half an hour drive from Srikalahasti.
By Rail
It has its own Railway Station named as Srikalahasti Railway Station which is connected to all the major cities of Andhra Pradesh. It is very well connected to the major cities.
By Road
It is well connected through Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) and some private travel services.
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Srikalahasti,Andhra Pradesh,India

Saturday 8 November 2014

Silathoranam is a natural rock formation in Tirumala, which is situated near the Chakra Theertham. This rock formation holds an archaeological importance and resembles the hood of a serpent, a discus and a conch.
Local inhabitants also believe that this rock is dedicated to the idol of Lord Venkateswara. It actually dates back millions of years and is generally categorized as a pre-Cambrian rock formation.
This site is equivalent to two other sites in the world, including the Rainbow Arch Bridge of Utah in the USA and the other cutting through the headland of the Dalradian Quartzite in UK. It was found accidentally while geologists were digging a geological fault on the hills of Tirumala. 
How to Reach
By Air
The Tirupati Airport is located at Tirumala, about 14 kilometres away from the city centre. The Tirupati Airport is well connected to the airports at Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore, which in turn are well connected to major cities in India. You can hire a taxi or a cab from the airport to get to your preferred location in the city.
By Bus
Tirupati is well connected to all the major cities in the state by the Andhra Pradesh State Run Transport Corporation buses. Cities in Karnataka are connected to Tirupati through the services of Karnataka State Run Transport Corporation buses. Private buses also ply from many South Indian cities to Tirupati.
By Train
The Tirupati Railway Station is well connected to the major railway stations in South India. You can board a bus or hire a taxi to get to your preferred destination in the city.
Road/Self Drive
It’s a pleasant drive from the nearby cities of states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to Tirupati. You can hire a cab or get behind the wheel yourself and explore the beautiful countryside where nature and architecture mingle to form a panorama of beauty and bliss.
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Silathoranam,Andhra Pradesh,India

Thursday 6 November 2014

Nallamala Forest is one of the largest undisturbed stretches of forest in South India. It is located in the Nallamala Hill which is a part of the Eastern Ghats. It is spread over five districts namely, Kurnool, Guntur, Kadapa, Mahabubnagar and Prakasam. 
The highest peak of these forest is sikhareswaram which is about 2835 feet above sea level. You can also watch here the Cumbum Lake which is belongs to 15th century AD. This lake was considered one among the oldest man-made lake made in Asia.
Breathtaking views of Nallamala ranges can be seen enroute to Srisailam. Almost half stretch of this journey belongs to the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve. It is also common to sight wild animals in some parts of this route.
The calm and peaceful environments all-around of these forest attracts thousands of people from different part of Andhra.
This is the perfect place to spend some hours close to nature. The healthy climate of these forest will surely rejuvenate you and you will fill with lot of happiness and enjoyments. 
How to Reach
By Road: If you are reaching in your own vehicle then get the highway of Vijayawada to Guntakal. A route is good, but covered with dense forest so be careful when you drive especially in night. Buses for Srisailam are available from almost every city of Andhra Pradesh. 
By Rail: Closest railway station for Nallamala hills are Hyderabad and Vijayawada.

Nallamala Forest,Andhra Pradesh,India

Tuesday 4 November 2014

Mahanandi is a holy Shivaite pilgrimage center located in Kurnool District of Andhra Pradesh. This is also one of the famous Andhra Pradesh places to visit.
Located to the east of Nallamala Hills, Mahanandi is a picturesque village surrounded by thick forest. Within 15 km radius from Mahanandi, there are nine Nandis (Bulls) known as Nava Nandis. Mahanandi is famous for the Mahanandiswara Temple and foremost shrines of Nava Nandis. The nine Nandi temples are Mahanandi, Shivanandi, Vinayakanandi, Somanandi, Prathamanandi, Garudanandi, Suryanandi, Krishnanandi and Naganandi.
The 7th century Mahanandiswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is very famous and sacred place. Though the initial structure was built by Chalukyas in 7th century, several additions were done in 10th and 15th centuries. The gopuram over central sanctum is built in Badami Chalukyan style of architecture and other structures in the temple are in Vijayanagara style. According to the legend, the local kings known as Nandas ruled here in the 10th century AD and they built a number of temples and worshipped their ancestral deity the Nandi, hence the name Mahanandi.
The best time to visit Mahanandi is from Nov to Mar while the peak season is from Feb to Mar. Usually it takes half day to visit Mahanandi.
How to Reach
To reach Mahanandi there are good bus facilities from the nearest villages. It can be well-reached by train with the nearest railway station at Nandyal. The small temple town is also connected by rail and road from the town of Kurnool. The nearest airport is at Hyderabad that is about 288kms from Kurnool. 
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Mahanandi Temple,Andhra Pradesh,India

Sunday 2 November 2014

Yaganti in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh is famous for Sri Yagantiswamy Temple (also called Uma Maheshwara Temple) dedicated to Lord Shiva. 
The Uma Maheshwara Temple at Yaganti houses the idol of Shiva & Parvathi (Ardhanareeswara) carved out of a single stone. This is probably the only place where Lord Shiva is worshipped in an idol form instead of Shiva Linga. It is believed that Sage Agastya performed penance for Lord Shiva at this place and requested Shiva to appear in Ardhanareeswara form which is worshipped here. Another unique feature of the temple is Nandi statue which has been growing in the size.
An amazing feature of this temple is its Pushkarini with very pure water. No one knows how the water flows into Pushkarini in all the seasons. Devotees consider that a bath in the holy Pushkarini before visiting Shiva is highly beneficial.
The best time to visit Yaganti is from October to March while the Peak Season is from February to March. Usually it takes half day to visit Yaganti.
How to Reach
By Road: It is associated with state transport to Hyderabad, Chittoor, Tirupati, Cuddapah, Nellore, Kurnool and Chennai which is 24km from the place called Allagadda and is also connected to the rest of the major cities. Buses are also available to Yaganti from Banaganapalli twice a day i.e., at 7:00 am and 3:30 pm. One can also find buses to Banaganapalli from Cuddapah, Nandyal, Hyderabad and Kurnool.
By Train:  The nearest railway station to the Sri Uma Maheswara Temple is the Secunderabad Railway station which is about 7 km from the temple. Nandyal railway station which is 55 km away from the temple is the nearest railway station connected to connected to major cities like Hyderabad, Howrah, Bangalore, Goa, Machilipatnam, Vijaywada, Puri, Hubli, Vizag and Bhubaneshwar.
By Air: The nearest airport to Sri Uma Maheswara Temple is Rajiv Gandhi International airport, Hyderabad and it is about 12km from the temple.

Yaganti Temple,Andhra Pradesh,India