20 Places to visit in Andhra Pradesh for a Memorable Travelling Experience!
Andhra Pradesh is a land of diversity deep-rooted in rich cultural, religious and historical heritage and is located in the southern part of India. Blessed with sacred temples on one end and the untouched natural beauty of Maredumilli Forests on the other end, the state promises a multitude of experiences for travellers, be they history enthusiasts, nature lovers, or spiritual seekers. In this detailed travel guide, we will take you through the most splendid places to visit in Andhra Pradesh, each so different in existence and worthy of a visit for their unique significance.
20 Places to Visit in Andhra Pradesh
1. Tirupati: The Soul of Andhra Pradesh
Tirupati is one of the most popular pilgrimage places to visit in Andhra Pradesh, located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. It houses the world-famous Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Situated in the foothills of the Tirumala Hills, the temple lures millions of devotees every year, with the title of being one of the richest and most visited sacred sites in the world.
Temple grandeur with exquisite carvings, golden domes, traditions and hill beauty combined make this one of the must-visit tourist places in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
2. Amaravati: The Ancient Buddhist Stupa
The dreamy Amaravati is a historical, religious and cultural treasure on the banks of the Krishna River, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The most conspicuous part of this site is the Amaravati Buddhist Stupa, the grand structure once belonging to a Buddhist monastery.
It stands as one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist structures found in India which further makes it to the list of places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. The fearsome carvings illustrating scenes from the life of the Buddha and various Jataka tales signify the rich Buddhist heritage that the region had.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
3. Araku Valley: The Hidden Paradise
If you love a relaxing holiday surrounded by nature, the Araku Valley is one of the top hill stations in Andhra Pradesh for nature lovers. Sitting at a height of around 1300 mts in the Eastern Ghats at a distance of about 115 kms from Visakhapatnam, Araku Valley is a charmingly tranquil hill station. Acclaimed for its great coffee gardens, lovely climate and astounding panoramic views, the valley is a perfect site to stroll about freely into nature.
Araku Valley is also remarkable for the indigenous tribes of the region and their radiant culture, making it one of the significant places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. Another interesting place to explore around Araku visit is Borra Caves, which have astounding limestone structures. The Tribal Museum in the area depicts everything about the lives and customs of the tribal people residing in the area.
Best Time to Visit: September to March.
4. Visakhapatnam: The Coastal Charm
Looking for places to visit in Andhra Pradesh that have both natural beauty and city comfort then Visakhapatnam (Vizag) has to be on your list. It is one of the liveliest cities in Andhra Pradesh. Adorned with beautiful beaches, hills and historic places, this city is equally fulfilling for someone venturing to relax or indulge in adventure.
RK Beach, Kailasagiri and Simhachalam Temple are some of the places to visit in Vishakhapatnam. The beautiful landscapes of the region make it one of the top places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
5. Temple Lepakshi: A Wonder of Architecture
If you love heritage architecture then Lepakshi Temple is located in the Anantapur district. It is one of the most notable architectural examples of Vijayanagara that defines the history of the area. It houses an idol of Lord Veerabhadhra, painted frescoes, a rich lattice of sculptures and a Hanging Pillar suspended in the air.
Another attraction of the temple complex is the giant statue of Nandi, the monolithic bull. The Nandi here is one of the largest in India. It is also uniquely proportioned and offers yet another unique opportunity to capture the beauty of the temple, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
6. Srisailam: The Holy Mallikarjuna Temple
For spiritual devotees, Srisailam is one of the pilgrimage places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. Located on the banks of the Krishna River, Srisailam is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its main attraction is the Mallikarjuna Temple, one of the auspicious pilgrimage centres of the devotees of Lord Shiva. Beautifully sculpted and surrounded by exquisite scenery, the temple adds to the divinity of the place.
Moreover, Srisailam is part of the Nagarjunsagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve, the country’s largest tiger reserve spread across 3500 sq.kms. You can explore the natural beauty including rich flora and fauna while trekking through the dense Nallamala Forest.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
7. Vijayawada: Kanka Durga Temple and Prakasam Barrage
You cannot miss Vijayawada while travelling to the state as it is home to famous tourist attractions in Andhra Pradesh like the Kanaka Durga Temple and Prakasam Barrage. The Kanaka Durga Temple is built atop Indrakeeladri Hill and is dedicated to Goddess Durga while offering spectacular views of the city and river Krishna.
On the other hand, Prakasam Barrage is a magnificent bridge over the Krishna River. The barrage appears stunning at sunset when either the golden light of sunset or the brilliant colours of dusk reflect in peace and beauty off the water, making it a perfect escape from daily hustle and bustle and one of the tourist places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
8. Konaseema: The Godavari Delta
Known as the Venice of Andhra Pradesh, Konaseema is a quiet region in the Godavari Delta. This area consists of verdant paddy fields and coconut groves surrounded by serene backwaters, ideal for those looking for peace far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Another highlight of Konaseema is the famous Sri Rajarajeswari Temple, a spiritual site. You can enjoy boat rides on the backwaters which take you through scenic rural landscapes and peaceful surroundings, which further makes it one the perfect places to visit in Andhra Pradesh for a relaxing getaway.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
9. Gandikota: The Grand Canyon of India
Famous as the Grand Canyon of India, Gandikota is a hidden gem tucked away in Kadapa. Situated on a hilltop, the fort built around the 12th century allows for some breathtaking views of the gorge formed by the Pennar River. With cliffs bordering the gorge and the river flowing below, Gandikota is no doubt one of the most picturesque wonders of India.
The panoramic views of the gorge formed by the Pennar River from the Gandikota Fort, make it one of the most remarkable places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. You can also explore the historic villages, caves and forts surrounding the regions.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
10. Belum Caves: Underground Marvel.
The longest caves in India, famous for their stalactites, stalagmite formations, and long narrow passageways are Belum Caves, one of the Kurnool tourist places. These limestone caves have been formed probably for millions of years and finally stretch to more than 3 kilometres. Out of the 16 paths inside the caves, is the stunning Saptaswaralu Guha, known to produce musical sounds of seven notes when one strikes any wooden or metal material.
Upon further exploring the caves, one can encounter strange and striking rock shapes and chambers that stem from peculiar names like Swan’s Path, Thousand Hoods, and Ravana’s Entrance. So, don’t miss to dive into a veritable haven for geology lovers with windows into the natural processes that formed this underground world while looking for places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
11. Horsley Hills: The Comfortable Retreat
While looking for an escape from daily chaos, Horsley Hills, in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the famous hill stations in Andhra Pradesh. These hills got their name from a British officer, W.D. Horsley, who founded this place as a summer refuge. The cool weather and peaceful surroundings offer a break from the heat of the plains. With exquisite views, these hills are covered with pine and eucalyptus trees. You can explore the Mallamma temple and indulge in trekking, bird watching and nature walks.
The breathtaking views from the Horsley Hills Viewpoint make it one of the most soothing places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. Everything in sight from the viewpoint simply screams greenery and beauty. The place serves as an ideal weekend getaway that provides a breathing space from the busy life of any city.
Best Months to Visit: September to March.
12. Talakona Waterfalls: A Hidden Paradise
Looking for tranquil tourist places in Andhra Pradesh on your next trip? Talakona Waterfalls in the Sri Venkateswara National Park can be the one. One of the tallest waterfalls in the state, Talakona is surrounded by deep forests and rich biodiversity. This cascading waterfall is an outstanding haven for nature and trekking fans. The trek to the falls through the rich forest is an actual thrill.
For hikers, the area around the waterfall has plenty to offer including various plants and animals, making this one of the ideal places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. So, don’t miss to visit the waterfalls on your next vacation to the state.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
13. Anantapur: Lepakshi Nandi and Penukonda Fort
Anantapur is a harmonious mixture that combines history, culture and nature into a tourist’s legitimating prospect. It is home to the two major tourist attractions in Andhra Pradesh, namely Lepakshi Nandi and Penukonda Fort. The Lepakshi Nandi, a monolithic statue of a bull, is one of India’s largest and is located in the Lepakshi Temple complex.
The ancient fortification of Penukonda is noted for its historical significance during the Vijayanagara Empire. The fort, garnished with majestic views of the surrounding countryside along with many impressive buildings such as temples and gateways makes it one of the must places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
14. Rajahmundry: Soul of the Godavari
Rajahmundry located on the banks of the river Godavari is a gifted city by nature, filled with cultural heritage. Godavari forms the heart of Rajahmundry. Visiting the Dowleswaram Barrage would introduce you to the very majesty of this flow of the Godavari River. The Pushkar Ghat, adjacent to this is one of the places to visit in Andhra Pradesh where the locals and pilgrims gather to take a holy dip in the Godavari.
Other significant temples found in Rajahmundry are the ISKCON and the Kotilingeshwara offering serene settings for a spiritual getaway. Rajahmundry is also famous for handicrafts, particularly Mangalagiri Sarees, plus the culture that is alive all year round with festivities and celebrations.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
15. Ahobilam: The Lord Narasimha’s Abode
Ahobilam combines a unique experience of spirituality and nature into one making it an ideal place for both pilgrims and adventure seekers. The Ahobilam shrine complex contains nine temples of different forms of Lord Narasimha and is one of the most important pilgrimage shrines. The main temple at the base of the hills is believed to have been installed by the great sage Adivaraha.
As one of the places to visit in Andhra Pradesh, the place offers a trek to the upper temple of Ahobilam where you can witness the beauty of lush green forests and rocky slopes giving the connection to a divine experience.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
16. Nagarjunakonda: The Buddhist Heritage
The historic and peaceful setting of Nagarjunakonda is much in tune with those interested in historical treasure hunts and spiritual quests. This archaeological Buddhist site is one of the popular places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. It is dedicated to the great scholar and monk Nagarjuna, one of the most ardent proponents of Mahayana Buddhism. Located near the Nagarjunasagar Dam in the Nalgonda district, the site is made up of ruins and dates back to the 3rd century BCE. You can explore several Buddhist stupas, monasteries and museums with relics of the period here.
If you want to dive down into the history, take a ride across the lake to the disappearing islands of Nagarjunakonda and unearth the leftovers of some ancient civilisations including Buddha statues that capture the imagination and inscriptions that speak of centuries.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
17. Kadapa: The Richness of Temples and History
Kadapa located in Nallamala and Palkonda Hills boasts beautiful temples, historical places and scenic beauty making it one of the popular places to visit in Andhra Pradesh. Pushpagiri, the oldest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Ameen Peer Dargah, an Islamic shrine, are popular tourist attractions in Andhra Pradesh located in this region.
To witness the spirituality of the place, you can plan your trip around the 10-day Pushpagiri Temple Festival (March-April), when the whole area is immersed in spiritual chantings.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
18. The Pilgrimage of Mantralayam, a Holy City of Raghavendra Swamy
Mantralayam is indeed a holy city on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. The Raghavendra Swamy Temple here is dedicated to Saint Raghavendra Swamy, the great philosopher and spiritual leader of the Dvaita school of Vedanta. For many years, this place has been a centre for devotion and has attracted thousands of pilgrims from every corner of the world. The surrounding scenery is a quiet landscape complemented by the serene Tungabhadra river, which adds to the overall peaceful atmosphere.
The Mantralayam Wildlife Sanctuary and Panchamukhi Anjaneya Temple are some other attractions in the region. Since it is one of the popular tourist places to visit in Andhra Pradesh, book your stay in advance.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
19. Kolleru Lake-Birdwatchers’ Paradise
A heaven for bird-watchers, Kolleru Lake formed at the delta of the Krishna and Godavari, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India. This lake serves as a haven for many migratory birds during the winters when thousands of cranes and ducks visit it. This place is classified as Ramsar Wetland and is a major ecotourism junction.
The green surroundings and the quaint little villages make it a pleasant backdrop for boating and bird-watching. You can visit Kolleru Bird Sanctuary nearby, a habitat for many varieties of waterfowl and other bird species. So, do visit the sanctuary while covering the places to visit in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
20. Maredumilli Forests- The Secret Gem of Nature
Want to explore the tribal lifestyle of the state? Then Maredumilli is a wonderful hidden treasure amid dense forests and beautiful sceneries in the East Godavari district. Maredumilli forests are a part of the Sri Venkateswara National Park, rich in biodiversity and serenity, making it one of the popular tourist places in Andhra Pradesh.
Maredumilli Community Conservation & Eco Tourism Area offers exposure to tribal lifestyle, ecological conservation and natural beauty. The Jungle Star Campsite is the highlight of the area which is surrounded by three water streams adding breathtaking beauty to the site.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Andhra Pradesh, a state of contrast imagery offers spiritual richness and natural beauty complemented with the history interleaved with culture. From the magnificent Tirumala Venkateswara Temple to the serene Maredumilli forests, each place has a unique something to offer and together they form a trove for discoverers of various natures. Adventure in Araku Valley hills, architectural wonders in Lepakshi Temple or peace at Kolleru Lake take you on an unforgettable journey. Plan a trip to places to visit in Andhra Pradesh and spend beautiful memories in this diverse state by mapping out your itinerary based on your preferences. You can easily find comfortable and affordable hotels in Andhra Pradesh near major tourist attractions. So, while planning your next visit do not miss these enchanting locations for a memorable travelling experience.
