While there are many natural formations in Araku Valley, Borra Caves are some of India’s largest and deepest natural caves, famous for their stalactite and stalagmite formations. Locally called Borra Guhalu, people believe that a cow grazing near the cave’s roof fell through a hole and found a Shiva linga that protected the animal.
The locals have been growing coffee ever since the British introduced it in the early 20th century. The region is famous for its high-quality Arabic coffee, especially around Ananthagiri, and for Araku coffee, a premium brand known worldwide among coffee connoisseurs. You can explore the estate, learn about coffee cultivation and processing, capture breathtaking views of the landscape, go trekking, or enjoy some freshly brewed coffee.
And if you’d like to stay in a coffee plantation for an immersive experience, call us at xxx to book Araku Valley tour packages.
Fed by the valley’s rivers and streams originating in the Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is home to several waterfalls that cascade beautifully and look wholesome when surrounded by lush forests and set amidst scenic trails.
Katiki, the most famous of them all, originates from the Gosthani River and is located near the Borra Caves. The water falls from over 50 feet and is a popular picnic spot surrounded by greenery and clear waters. If you’d like to include Katiki Waterfalls in your Araku Valley tour packages itinerary, we suggest you inform us beforehand, as there is no public transport available and driving in regular cars can be challenging due to bumpy road conditions.
Chaparai, another popular cascade, can be reached by auto-rickshaw or taxi and is situated in the middle of a dense forest. You can glide through the smooth rocks like a slide, or enjoy some great Bongulu chicken and chicken Kababs sold on the streetside.
Some other popular waterfalls among tourists and locals include Tatiguda, Dharagadda, and Kothapalli.
The beautiful valleys offer panoramic vistas that look stunning and are worth capturing. For instance, the Galikonda Viewpoint is the second-highest peak in the Eastern Ghats and offers a wonderful view of the surrounding hills, valleys, rivers, streams, and hillocks. You will surely love the verdant greenery, especially in the morning, when mist envelops the hills.
Another scenic viewpoint, Madagada, is a great place to view sunrises and sunsets in Araku Valley. To the uninitiated, there are two viewpoints at Madagada – the first can be observed by trekking from the nearby parking area, and the second, which offers a unique view of clouds hovering above your head and offering a panoramic view of the lush forests.
The Rushikonda Viewpoint is on the way to Araku Valley and is a popular photo spot offering panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding hills.
The Dumuku Viewpoint is known for its captivating sunrises and sunsets, as well as magnificent views of the valley.
If you love adventure, Araku Valley is a great place to visit. You can explore the Borra Caves to learn more about the stalactites and stalagmites, and other natural formations. Or, trek your way to the Katiki Falls to dip into the calm waters. The Chaparai Falls trek is equally interesting and scenic thanks to the beautiful surroundings.
Besides trekking and hiking, you can always sign up for activities like zip lining, mountain biking, rock climbing, and target shooting at one of the many companies offering adventure Araku Valley tour packages.
It is heartwarming to learn that Araku Valley has preserved the culture of its indigenous communities by encouraging their participation in the mainstream economy. They are shareholders and major beneficiaries in the Araku Coffee enterprise.
As tourists, you can explore their rich culture, including their unique traditions and social customs, by visiting the Araku Tribal Museum, witnessing Dhimsa dance performances, and even seeing live demonstrations of traditional crafts.