Araku Valley Tourist Places (2026) | Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley Trip | Best Places to Visit
Araku Valley is a beautiful and popular hill station in the Eastern Ghats. It is surrounded by green hills and thick forests and is known for its amazing natural beauty. In this post, you will get to know about the most popular tourist places in Araku Valley, the best time to visit, and some useful travel details.
Araku Valley is located about 110–118 km west of Visakhapatnam in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It was once part of the Visakhapatnam district, but now it is one of the most popular tourist places in the Alluri Sitharama Raju district.
Traveling through the Araku Ghat Road by car or bike in the winter season is a truly memorable experience. Every year, many tourists visit the top attractions in Araku Valley to enjoy its pleasant weather, misty hills, and beautiful scenery. The valley is especially lovely during the monsoon season (June to August), and it is also very nice in winter (November to January), so both seasons are good for a visit.
Some of the most popular places to visit in Araku Valley include Borra Caves, Katiki Waterfalls, Chaparai Waterfalls, Padmapuram Gardens, Galikonda Viewpoint, the Tribal Museum, and the Coffee Museum.
Araku Valley is an excellent destination for family trips, picnics, group outings with friends, and honeymoon getaways. It is also a perfect choice for nature lovers who want to unwind in a peaceful setting surrounded by lush greenery, scenic hills, and breathtaking landscapes.
Vizag → Borra Caves → Araku One-Day Tour Itinerary
Start your one-day trip by boarding Train No. 58501 (Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger), which departs from Visakhapatnam Railway Station at 7:00 AM daily. Get down at Borra Caves Railway Station and begin your sightseeing from Borra Caves.
Follow the route below in the same order to cover all the major attractions before reaching Araku Railway Station.
Board Train No. 58502 (Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Passenger) from Araku Railway Station, which arrives at around 3:30 PM. You can reach Simhachalam Railway Station by approximately 7:45–8:00 PM and Visakhapatnam Railway Station by around 9:00 PM. Train timings may occasionally be delayed by about 1 hour.
Travel Route:
Vizag Railway Station → Borra Caves Railway Station → Borra Caves → Araku Ananthagiri Coffee Plantations → Galikonda View Point → Wooden Bridge Araku Plantation → Sunkarimetta CBM Church → Araku Tribal Museum (No Time Skip) → Coffee Museum (No Time Skip) → Araku Railway Station → Simhachalam Railway Station/ Visakhapatnam Railway Station
Borra Guhalu (Borra Caves)
Borra Caves are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Araku Valley and are located just a short walk from Borra Caves Railway Station. These natural limestone caves are believed to be over one million years old and are among the largest and deepest cave systems in India.
The caves were formed naturally by the continuous flow of water through limestone rocks over thousands of years. Inside, visitors can see stunning stalactites and stalagmites in unique shapes, creating a fascinating underground landscape.
Borra Caves Timings: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹80
- Children: ₹60
Araku Ananthagiri Coffee Plantations
As you travel from Borra Caves toward Araku Valley, you will pass through the beautiful Ananthagiri Coffee Plantations. These lush, shade-grown coffee estates cover the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
The plantations are surrounded by silver oak trees, making them a perfect place to stop, relax, and enjoy nature. Several roadside stalls serve freshly brewed organic Araku coffee, and you can also buy locally grown coffee beans as souvenirs.
With its cool climate, green landscapes, and scenic viewpoints, Ananthagiri is one of the most beautiful stretches of the journey to Araku Valley and a must-visit stop for coffee lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Galikonda View Point
Galikonda View Point is one of the most scenic stops on the journey to Araku Valley. Located along the ghat road between Borra Caves and Araku, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and dense forests.
Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,320 feet (1,317 metres) above sea level, it is one of the highest viewpoints in the Eastern Ghats. Visitors can enjoy cool mountain breezes throughout the year, making it a perfect place to relax and take photographs.
From the viewpoint, you can see the rolling hills, lush green valleys, and the winding Vizag–Araku railway line, one of the most scenic railway routes in India. Local stalls nearby also sell hot snacks, tea, coffee, and refreshing beverages.
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Wooden Bridge Canopy Walk | Coffee Trail, Sunkarametta
Located near Sunkarametta in Araku Valley, the Wooden Bridge Canopy Walk is a unique eco-tourism attraction that lets visitors enjoy the beauty of the region from an elevated wooden pathway. Built amidst lush coffee plantations and towering silver oak trees, the bridge offers a peaceful walk through the green canopy with refreshing mountain air.
The scenic walkway provides stunning views of the surrounding hills, making it a favorite spot for photography, nature walks, and relaxing amidst the tranquil landscapes. Early mornings and evenings are especially beautiful, with mist-covered valleys and golden sunlight creating picture-perfect views.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Araku Valley, the Wooden Bridge Canopy Walk is an ideal stop for families, couples, and nature lovers seeking a memorable experience. Its serene atmosphere and picturesque setting make it one of the newest must-visit attractions on the Araku tourist circuit.
Timings: Open daily from 08:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee:
- Adults (Canopy Walk): ₹50
- Children (Canopy Walk): ₹20
- Tree Deck (Additional): ₹20
- Bird's Nest Viewpoint: ₹100
- Photo & Video / Pre-Wedding Shoots: ₹2,000
Sunkarimetta CBM Church
Sunkarimetta CBM Church is a well-known landmark in the Araku Valley region. Surrounded by lush green hills and scenic valleys, the church is a peaceful stop for travelers on the way to Araku.
The church has also been featured as a filming location in several Telugu movies, making it a popular attraction among visitors. Its beautiful surroundings and hilltop setting provide excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural landscape.
The calm atmosphere and panoramic valley views make Sunkarimetta CBM Church a worthwhile stop during your Araku trip.
Katiki Waterfalls
Katiki Waterfalls is a beautiful natural attraction located near Borra Caves in the Araku Valley region. The waterfall, which originates from the Gosthani River, cascades from a height of approximately 50 feet and is surrounded by lush green forests.
To reach the falls, visitors need to take a jeep ride from the main road, followed by a short trek through the forest. The scenic trail and refreshing surroundings make it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
The area is also known for local food stalls serving the famous bamboo chicken and other snacks.
Best Time to Visit: During or just after the monsoon season (July–October), when the waterfall is at its fullest and most spectacular.
Araku Tribal Museum
The Araku Tribal Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich culture and heritage of the tribal communities of Araku Valley. Located at the entrance of Araku town, the museum showcases the lifestyle, traditions, and customs of the indigenous tribes of the Eastern Ghats.
Inside the museum, you can explore life-sized clay models, traditional handicrafts, tools, musical instruments, weapons, clothing, household items, and beautiful tribal wall art. These exhibits provide an authentic look at the daily life and cultural practices of the local tribes.
One of the highlights of the museum is the Dhimsa Dance, a traditional folk dance performed by tribal women, including members of the Porja tribe. Dressed in colorful sarees and traditional tribal jewelry, the performers showcase the vibrant culture of Araku. Live Dhimsa dance performances are often held during peak visiting hours.
A visit to the Araku Tribal Museum is a must for anyone interested in learning about the history, traditions, and unique lifestyle of the tribal communities of Araku Valley.
Araku Coffee Museum
The Araku Coffee Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Araku Valley and is located right next to the Araku Tribal Museum. It offers visitors an interesting introduction to the history, cultivation, and unique coffee culture of the region.
The museum features informative exhibits that explain the complete journey of coffee—from coffee berry harvesting and bean processing to roasting and brewing. Visitors can learn how the famous Araku Organic Coffee is grown in the surrounding coffee plantations.
The museum also has a coffee house where you can enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffee, specialty coffee drinks, chocolates, and snacks. Before leaving, don't miss the gift shop, which sells Araku organic coffee powder, coffee beans, chocolates, and coffee-flavored sweets, making it a great place to buy souvenirs.
Padmapuram Gardens
Padmapuram Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden located just a short distance from Araku Railway Station. Established during World War II, the garden was originally developed to grow fruits and vegetables for soldiers.
Today, the garden is a popular tourist attraction featuring rare flowering plants, fruit orchards, and well-maintained green landscapes. One of its unique highlights is the tree-top hanging cottages, which offer visitors a distinctive experience.
The garden also features a toy train ride that takes visitors around the park, making it a favorite attraction for families and children.
With its peaceful atmosphere, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths, Padmapuram Gardens is an ideal place to relax before returning to Araku Railway Station.
Chaparai Waterfalls (Dumbriguda Waterfalls)
Chaparai Waterfalls, also known as Dumbriguda Waterfalls, is a popular natural attraction near Araku Valley. Located a short distance off the main road to Araku, it is known for its wide, gently sloping rock formations over which crystal-clear water flows throughout the year.
Unlike a vertical waterfall, Chaparai features smooth natural rock surfaces that create shallow streams, making it a favorite spot for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the scenic surroundings. The area is surrounded by dense forests, adding to its peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.
Visitors can walk through the shallow water, take photographs, or simply relax by the stream. However, the rocks can become slippery, especially during the monsoon season, so extra care is advised while walking.
With its beautiful natural setting and calm environment, Chaparai Waterfalls is one of the most visited picnic spots in the Araku Valley region.
Other Popular Attractions Around Araku Valley
In addition to the major tourist attractions, Araku Valley is home to several other beautiful places worth visiting. Popular spots include the Mustard Plantation, Sunflower Garden, Yellow Flowers Garden, Matsyagundam (Fish Pool), and Madagada Viewpoint.
These attractions offer stunning natural landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and unique local experiences. They are perfect for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Eastern Ghats. If you have extra time during your trip, these destinations are well worth adding to your Araku itinerary.
Araku Valley Waterfalls: In and Around Araku
Araku Valley is home to several beautiful waterfalls surrounded by lush forests and scenic hills.
Some of the major waterfalls in and around Araku Valley are:
- Katiki Waterfalls
- Chaparai Waterfalls (Dumbriguda Waterfalls)
- Tatiguda Waterfalls
- Dharagadda Waterfalls(also known as Aluru Waterfalls or Aluru Kona Waterfalls), located near Kesali Village
- Kollaput Jala Tarangini Waterfalls
- Kothapalli Waterfalls
Each waterfall offers a unique experience, ranging from easy roadside access to adventurous treks through forests. The best time to visit these waterfalls is during and after the monsoon season (July–October), when the water flow is at its peak and the surrounding landscapes are at their greenest.
Best Time to Visit Araku Valley
Road Trip to Araku Valley
FAQs
What are the Vizag to Araku Vistadome train timings?
The Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger departs from Visakhapatnam Junction at 7:00 AM and arrives at Araku at approximately 11:00 AM. It operates daily.
What is the name of the glass train from Vizag to Araku?
The glass-roof train from Visakhapatnam (Vizag) to Araku is the Vistadome Coach attached to the Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger (Train No. 58501). It departs from Visakhapatnam Junction at 7:00 AM and arrives at Araku Railway Station between 10:55 AM and 11:30 AM, depending on the schedule and operational conditions.
What is the price of a Vizag to Araku Vistadome train ticket?
The fare for a Vistadome AC (EV) ticket is approximately ₹755–₹790, depending on the booking date and applicable railway charges.
How many Vistadome coaches are available from Vizag to Araku?
The Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express generally operates with three Vistadome coaches. However, the number of coaches may vary depending on demand and operational requirements.
Does the Vistadome coach offer 360-degree views?
Yes. The Vistadome coach features a glass roof, extra-large panoramic windows, and rotating seats, allowing passengers to enjoy spectacular views of the Eastern Ghats throughout the journey.
Is the Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger (58501) and Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express (18515) a daily train?
Yes. Both the Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger (58501) (journey time: 4 hours) and the Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express (18515) (journey time: 3 hours 15 minutes) operate daily between Visakhapatnam and Kirandul, with scheduled stops at Araku Railway Station.
The Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express departs from Visakhapatnam Junction at 9:10 PM and reaches Araku at around 12:25 AM (approximately 3 hours 15 minutes).
The Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger departs from Visakhapatnam Junction at 7:00 AM and reaches Araku at approximately 11:00 AM, taking about 4 hours.
Is Araku Valley safe for tourists?
Yes, Araku Valley is a safe destination for tourists. Local authorities and tourism organizations work to maintain a secure environment. However, it is always a good idea to take basic precautions and follow general safety guidelines while traveling.
What is the famous food in Araku Valley?
Bamboo Chicken (Bongulo Chicken) is the most famous traditional food in Araku Valley. It is cooked inside a bamboo stalk over an open fire, giving it a unique smoky flavor. It is a must-try delicacy for non-vegetarian visitors.
Is Bamboo Chicken available in Araku?
Yes. Bamboo Chicken is widely available at roadside stalls, local restaurants, and tourist spots across Araku Valley. It is freshly prepared and is one of the most popular dishes among visitors.
Is Bamboo Chicken spicy?
Bamboo Chicken is moderately spicy and is prepared using local spices. The spice level may vary depending on the vendor, and some stalls can adjust it according to your preference.
