Spiritual & scenic: Discover the best of Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh, in southern India, is a vibrant blend of spiritual heritage, natural beauty and cultural richness. From the sacred hills of Tirupati to the tranquil beaches of Visakhapatnam, this state offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveller.

The southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh boasts a rich tapestry of heritage, religious sites, stunning landscapes, and serene beaches that attract millions of tourists each year.

The state offers a diverse range of experiences, catering to all types of travellers, from adventure seekers to nature lovers and spiritual pilgrims to those in search of immersive cultural experiences.

Visitors can explore Visakhapatnam’s breath-taking coastline, wander through the lush coffee plantations of Araku Valley, visit the revered Tirupati Balaji temple and marvel at the ancient Borra Caves.

Each destination promises unforgettable experiences that make for a lifetime of memories.

A spiritual haven

Spiritual tourism has become a significant driver of economic and social development in many regions, and Andhra Pradesh is leveraging its rich heritage to enhance its appeal as a spiritual destination. Among its most prominent sites is the Tirupati Balaji Temple, a renowned pilgrimage destination that attracts millions of devotees and tourists each year.

“Tirupati is one of the most sought spiritual tourists place. In fact Andhra Pradesh attracts 90 pc tourists for just spiritual tourism with Tirupati being the central focus point,” S Mahalingaiah, Director, Skyway International Travels tells India & You.

“We are now getting more and more customers for spiritual tourism. Even high-end customers are opting for such experiences,” he adds.

Tirupati Balaji, located in the Tirumala hills, about 760 km from Vishakhapatnam, is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, an incarnation of Vishnu. This temple is not only one of the richest in the world but also a marvel of Dravidian architecture, characterised by its intricate carvings and the striking gold-plated dome, known as the “Vimana.” The temple complex sees an influx of approximately 50,000 to 100,000 pilgrims daily, reflecting its immense spiritual significance and popularity.

Visitors to Tirupati are drawn not only by the temple’s religious importance but also by its serene and picturesque surroundings. The sacred hills of Tirumala provide a tranquil backdrop for reflection and prayer. Daily rituals, including the famous Archana and Seva offerings that create a deeply immersive spiritual experience, making Tirupati a place of devotion and connection to the divine. In addition to the temple, Tirupati is home to unique geological wonders, such as a rare, naturally occurring pre-Jurassic stone arch, standing 7.6 m long and 3 m high. This geological feature is one of only three known in the world. Overall, Tirupati Balaji Temple serves as a focal point for spiritual tourism in Andhra Pradesh, promoting cultural heritage and offering visitors an opportunity to engage with India’s rich traditions and beliefs while contributing to the local economy.

However apart from Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh also nestles many other sites of spiritual significance like the Mahanandi, a pilgrimage centre located in the Kurnool District, Lepakshi, a sacred village in Andhra Pradesh revered for its connections to the Hindu epic Ramayana. Recognising the significance and growth of spiritual tourism as a key driver of economic development, the government plans to implement a new tourism policy to promote Andhra Pradesh. These initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure and engage in promotional activities to attract more visitors to the state, positioning it as a premier destination for spiritual experiences. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation has also announced the launch of a new spiritual tourism circuit which would include six holy sites namely Korukonda, Annavaram, Pithapuram, Samarlakota, Daksharamam and Vadapalli.

Vishakhapatnam 

Beyond spirituality, to explore the scenic beauty of Andhra Pradesh, most visitors make a beeline to Vishakapatnam, a key port on the Eastern Coast of India. Boasting eight stunning beaches, hilltop parks, a nature preserve, diverse wildlife, caverns sacred Buddhist monuments, temples and even a fascinating submarine museum, Vishakhapatnam caters to every traveller’s needs and desires.

Also known as Vizag, the city nestles one of the most fascinating and unique natural wonder, the Bora Caves. Over 150 years old, these caves are made up of stunning karstic limestone structures that are up to 80 m deep. The Rushikonda Beach in Vizag is an ideal spot for adventure enthusiasts as it offers visitors a chance to engage in water sports such as wind surfing and jet skiing. The golden sands and the serene waves of the beaches in Vishakhapatnam make it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Ishaq Madina Dargah is one of Visakhapatnam’s hidden gems, located just a kilometre from Ross Hill Church. Renowned for its stunning views, this shrine has historical records dating back to 1869, though locals believe it has an even older legacy.

The port city also boasts other unique attractions worth exploring, such as the Buddhist ruins at Bojannakonda located 40 km from the city. Visitors can discover excavated pottery, seals, inscribed terracotta tablets, terracotta beads, gold coins from the Samudragupta era and copper coins from the Chalukya dynasty.

Araku Valley

Located about 110 km west of Visakhapatnam, the Araku Valley is a serene and largely unexplored hill station renowned for its stunning flower gardens, picturesque valleys, enchanting waterfalls,

lush green plantations, and delicious cuisine.

One of the valley’s standout features is the vibrant participation of the local tribal community in cultural activities, offering tourists a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tribal heritage. A highlight of the area is the famous Coffee Museum, established in 1930, which showcases the unique Arabica coffee grown in the region. Notably, the museum is managed by local tribal members, enhancing the authentic experience.

Another must-visit spot is Padmapuram Gardens, which features distinctive treetop huts, also known as hanging cottages. These accommodations are perched 3 m above ground and come with attached toilets and a continuous water supply, allowing visitors to enjoy the thrill of swaying in the treetops during windy days. The Araku Tribal Museum is also a key attraction, offering insights into the daily lives of indigenous communities. Its main gallery displays dioramas of traditional dances, ritualistic scenes and hunting practices, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.

Lepakshi

Lepakshi, a village located about 120 km north of Bangalore, is a treasure trove of archaeological sites, handicrafts and temples waiting to be discovered. The village is home to the Lepakshi temple, also known as Veerbhadra which is famous for its architecture characterised by hanging pillars, cave chambers and the ceiling paintings which are also said to be some of the finest and best preserved examples of pictorial art in southern India under Vijayanagara.

The village also gives visitors a chance to experience some of the best markets for handicrafts and art. The artistic traditions of Lepakshi date back centuries to the Vijayanagara Empire. The town boasts intricate stone carvings, mural paintings and fine workmanship.

You will also find exquisite textiles such as traditional Kalamkari and Pochampally sarees reflecting complex patterns, vibrant colours and different aspects of the local cultures. These sarees are made by manual weaving process.