A scenic hill station, Araku Valley is at an altitude of 3,100 ft in Anatagiri Hills of
Visakhapatnam District in
Andhra Pradesh. Over 35 km in area, it is 115 km from
Visakhapatnam and is close to
Orissa.
Blessed with waterfalls, streams, rich landscape and pleasant weather, Araku is inhabited by over 17 tribal groups, who have colorful costumes and rich cultures.
Dhimsa Dance in accompaniment with rhythmic songs is very popular. Itika Pongal is a famous hunting festival that falls in April.
Araku Tribal Museum, Sangda Falls,
Matsyagundam,
Rishikonda Beach, Padmapuram Gardens and Paderu form the major attractions. Borro Caves at a distance of 90 km and Anatagiri Coffee Plantations (35 km away) are other places of interest. The festival organized by the Andhra government every year from the third Friday to Sunday in January is worth seeing.
The tourist offices run by APTDC cater to tourists’ needs. There are cottages and resorts ensuring superb accommodation. Araku has its own railhead and the nearest airport is at Visakhapatnam. Bus service is available from Visakhapatnam.
