Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is India's fifth-largest state, with a total area of 275,068 square kilometres. Tamil Nadu borders the state on the south, Karnataka on the west, Maharashtra on the north and northwest, Madhya Pradesh and Orissa on the northeast, and the Bay of Bengal on the east.

Because it is blessed with two lovely rivers, the Krishna and the Godavari, the tourism administration promotes this state as the Kohinoor of India. With hills covered with a diversity of flora and fauna, meandering rivers, and a lengthy coastline, Andhra Pradesh is rich in natural beauty. The state, which has a rich cultural history, features several historic and pilgrimage sites.

Andhra Pradesh is a destination you should visit at least once in your life, with its gorgeous beaches, sacred lush green hills, ancient caves, thrilling animals, lush forest, and sacred temples, mosques, and churches. Tea houses, small lanes, multi-hued shops, and a variety of biryani shops fill the streets of Andhra Pradesh's Old Quarter, which is graced with palaces and monuments from a bygone era.

Andhra Pradesh's attractive capital, Hyderabad, provides several reasons to visit. The IT-fueled teenagers light up hotels, resorts, fine restaurants, bars, and stores. Hyderabad, Telangana's common capital, is adorned with a wealth of forts and tombs that speak volumes about the past monarchy that formerly reigned here.

Summer in Andhra Pradesh is terrible. Many travellers plan their visits around this time of year and stay in hill stations or near beaches to cool off. The monsoon season is quite enjoyable because of the rainfall, and the lush foliage soothes the eyes. Keep in mind that the state gets a lot of rain, so if you're planning a vacation during the monsoon, check the weather prediction first. The winter is the greatest season to visit Andhra Pradesh. Tourists from all around the country, as well as from other countries, rush to the city during this period.
 

Main Attractions

Lord Venkateshwara Temple, one of the country's most visited pilgrimage centres, is located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh's Chittoor district. The main temple is located on Tirumala, one of Tirupati's seven hills. In this temple, Lord Venkateshwara is reported to have taken the form of an idol, which is home to the goddess Govinda. Tirupati is one of India's oldest cities, with allusions to it appearing in a number of ancient Indian texts.

Also known as Vizag is a coastal and port city on the Bay of Bengal's coasts in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Visakhapatnam, or Vizag, is named after Visakha, the Hindu God of Valour. The region contains several beaches along the Bay of Bengal coast, as well as picturesque hills, valleys, and caves.

It is regarded as a holy spot by Buddhists, and it is said to be surrounded by 101 lakes. At an elevation of 13,700 feet, this mountain pass is completely covered in snow all year. This lake is special because it freezes over in the winter, providing a stunning spectacle. This spot is a photographer's dream as well as a nature lover's haven.

These caves are the longest caves in the plains of the Indian Subcontinent and one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. It's a water-filled natural underground cave with stalactite and stalagmite.

It is a hill station in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district that has the sacred Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga and one of goddess Parvati's eighteen Shakti Peethas. Srisailam is noted for its wildlife reserve and dam on the Krishna River's banks.

Founded in 1535 AD by Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijayanagara kingdom, Lepakshi is a treasure trove of fascinating archaeological monuments, gorgeous historic temples, and rich culture. This magical community takes its name from the Sanskrit language, which means "rising of bird," and is steeped in folklore. According to mythology, Jatayu fell in Lepakshi after being wounded by Ravana, as described in the Ramayana. Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Veerabhadra are honoured at the temples of Lepakshi, which are outstanding examples of ageless art and construction. Apart from the ornately carved temples with Kannada inscriptions and the hanging pillar, Lepakshi's most prominent features are the ornately carved temples with Kannada inscriptions and the hanging pillar.

The city is a mix of old and new worlds; it is renowned as Andhra Pradesh's "commercial, political, and media centre" and is located on the banks of the Krishna River in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Among the most notable attractions to visit in Vijayawada are Bhavani Island, Victoria Museum, Hazratbal Mosque, Rajiv Gandhi Park, and Kolleru Lake, as well as numerous temples and shrines.

It is the most famous hill station in Andhra Pradesh, approximately 120 kilometres from Visakhapatnam. The valley is recognised for both its biodiversity and its popular coffee farms.

Tradition & Culture

The state, also known as the Rice Bowl of India, has been ruled by dynasties such as the Kakatiyas, Pallavas, Mughals, Chalukyas, and Vijayanagara. These numerous influences have had a significant impact on Andhra Pradesh's culture and heritage. The Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Salar Jung Museum are all examples of past rulers' abilities and intelligence.

Andhra Pradesh's inhabitants are deeply religious and hold their faith in high regard. Andhra Pradesh's four major religions are Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism. Throughout the state, people of diverse religious views, as well as their own ideas and traditions, can be found.

Telugu is the ethnic and official language of the state, and it is a rich language. Telugu is a robust language with a touch of Sanskrit thrown in for good measure. It has created a number of well-known prose and poetry works. Other widely spoken languages in Andhra Pradesh include English, Hindi, Urdu, and Banjara. Other languages, including as Tamil, Marathi, Kannada, and Oriya, have recently witnessed an increase in their usage.

Andhra Pradesh has historically dominated the jewellery business as a province, controlling it till 1826. The Golconda mine is a historic spot in the state where rare gems like the Hope and Kohinoor diamonds can be found. Although some Muslim women prefer to wear a salwar kameez, most ladies wear a saree with a top. The younger age favours Chudidaars, Pants, and Shorts. Their pearl jewellery, as well as their clothing, have established a strong fashion heritage in Andhra Pradesh. Because of its weaving and dyeing business, Andhra Pradesh is regarded as India's Kohinoor. They have some of the best dying and cloth-making traditions in the world.

A short dhoti folded over the knee is worn by men with a kurta or shirt. A scarf is usually worn around their neck. Normally, Muslim males dress in pyjamas rather than dhotis.

Kuchipudi, Andhra Natyam, Bhamakalapam, Veeranatyam, and folk dances (Janapada Nrutyam) such as Butta bommalu, Tappeta Gullu, Lambadi, Dhimsa, Teenmar, and Chindu are all popular in Andhra Pradesh. In the state's many rural districts, folk music are popular. Burra katha and Poli are two forms of Burra katha that are still used today. Thyagaraja, Shyama Sastri, and Muthuswami Dixitar, the Carnatic Music Trinity's three prodigies, were all born in the state.

The omnipresent Telugu language of Andhra Pradesh provides Carnatic music its genuine meaning and character.

Andhra Pradesh is a diversified state with interests ranging from technology to arts and crafts. A wide range of handicrafts, sculptures, and handlooms are among the state's arts and crafts.
 

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs and Festivals of Andhra Pradesh:

Andhra Pradesh is one of the most visited Indian states due to its unique culture and festivities. Festivals in Andhra Pradesh, as well as native dance genres such as Kuchipudi, have a distinct scent that draws millions of admirers and visitors.

  • Pongal- Pongal is a four-day festival celebrated in Andhra Pradesh. During this holiday, every house in Andhra Pradesh is attractively decorated with rangoli and flowers. You must cook the traditional Pongal dish for this event.

 

  • Ugadi- This celebration commemorates the Telugu New Year. In the months of April and May, it takes place. People put on new attire, decorate their homes, and create sweets on this day. Puran Poli or Bhakshya is a particular treat made on this day.

 

  • Ganesh Chaturthi- This celebration takes place in August or September. People make or buy Ganesh (Indian Mythology's Elephant God) idols and worship them for a few days before immersing them in any body of water. There will be a multitude of colourful and entertaining festivities throughout this festival.

 

  • Tirupati Tirumala Brahmotsavam- It is one of Andhra Pradesh's most prominent festivals, as it is exceedingly auspicious and draws worshippers from all across India and beyond. It takes place in the Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. Various yagnas, as well as regular processions in which idols of Gods are brought out on chariots for people to seek blessings, are held during the nine days of this important festival in Andhra Pradesh.

 

  • Visakha Utsav- One of the most well-known cultural festivals in South India is the Visakha Utsav. Since 1997, the four-day festival has taken place. Huge numbers flock to cultural displays, sporting events, traditional crafts, a garment market, flower shops, and various heritage tours.

 

  • Shivaratri- The Shivaratri festival is celebrated with tremendous passion in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Two of the state's most important Shiva temples, Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple in Srikalahasti and Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam, attract devotees. Devotees fast and chant mantras in honour of Lord Shiva to mark the fortunate event.

 

  • Deccan Festival- The Deccan Festival is a cultural event that takes place in a number of major cities around the world, including Hyderabad. Several local fairs and exhibits will be held throughout the festival. To honour the cuisine of this state, a number of culinary festivals will be conducted in various areas. Stop by the pearl exhibition if you're in the state during the festival and pick up some Hyderabadi pearls.

 

  • Diwali- The 'festival of lights,' as it is known in India—is celebrated with enormous fanfare. The magnificent event in Andhra Pradesh has a rich history of presenting Hindu culture. To mark the triumph of good over evil, every house in Andhra Pradesh is decked with diyas.
     

Cuisines

Cuisines

The cuisine of Andhra Pradesh is noted for its fiery, spicy, and delectable meals, as well as its diversified culinary community. Ragi is popular in the Rayalaseema region, whereas jaggery, shallots, and fenugreek paste are popular in Uttar Andhra. Coastal Andhra offers a lot of meat and seafood cooking in pots, which is served with rice and tangy spicy curries.

  • Andhra Style Chicken Curry- Fresh and juicy chicken pieces are mixed to a spicy masala mixture for a delightful flavour and scent. This dish is served with steaming hot rice and fresh coriander leaves on top.
  • Panasa Puttu Koora (Andhra jackfruit curry)- This renowned Andhra recipe uses jackfruit. Jackfruit is marinated in hot masalas and topped with cashew nuts to form this wonderful curry.
  • Pesarattu- A popular breakfast food among Telugu speakers is the Pesarattu, or green Dosa. Moong dal batter is used to make it. Green gram (Moong Daal) is grown in the Uttar Andhra areas, therefore it's very well-known there.
  • Gongura Pachadi- Andhra cuisine would be incomplete without a vast variety of pachadis and chutneys. One of the most unique dishes is spinach pachadi. Your taste buds will be tantalised by the unusual flavour, and you will be left wanting more. Sorrel leaves are used to make a tangier pickle version of the chutney.
  • Pulihora- An exotic form of tamarind rice, also known as Chitrannam, is supplemented with spicy flavours to give it a sour and salty flavour at the same time. One of the key components, along with curry leaves, onions, and mustard seeds, is tamarind. During festivals and special occasions, pulihora is frequently used in kitchens.
  • Eggplant Curry- Gutti Vankaya Stew is a classic eggplant/brinjal curry from Andhra Pradesh. Vegetable curries are the most popular cuisines in Andhra Pradesh. This dish is created with fresh herbs and spices and served with rice.
  • Kodi Pulao- Meat enthusiasts will adore the fantastic spicy mix of rice and meat in Kodi Pulao. You just cannot miss this meaty delight before checking into an hourly hotel in Banjara Hills to retire for the day.
  • Shikampuri Kebab- It is a popular street cuisine in Hyderabad. It is a member of the royal kebab family. Minced mutton, chana dal, yoghurt, and spicy spices are wrapped in these delectable Hyderabadi kebabs.
  • Crispy Andhra Bhindi- This deep-fried bhindi is tossed in home-made fresh spices, coconut, and garlic and served as a side dish.
  • Gongura Pickle Ambadi- This flaming spicy pickle is made using ambadi leaves, also known as sorrel leaves. In both Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, this tasty pickle-chutney combination is popular. This distinctive Andhra meal, which is well-balanced with a variety of spices, can be served with tasty rice or a pair of steaming chapatis.
  • Gongura Mutton- This delectable spinach dish has a unique spicy scent and flavour that is hard to find anywhere else. The inclusion of potatoes and coconut milk enhances the flavour and texture of the delectable gravy.
  • Pootharekulu- Also known as paper sweet, is a delightful sweet delicacy made with rice flour and ghee. Between the thin rice flour layers, jaggery and spices like cardamom and elaichi are placed.
  • Andhra Pepper Chicken- Chicken marinated in turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, and lemon juice is cooked till soft in crispy onions and curry leaves.
  • Bobbatlu- Also known as Puran Poli, is a classic sweet dish popular in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. It is considered to be pious and is cooked in big quantities during major festivals and celebrations. The exterior layer is made of wheat flour or refined flour, and the internal stuffing is made of lentils and jaggery, which gives it a delicate and tempting flavour.
  • Mudda Pappu- Mudda Pappu is Andhra Pradesh's most popular dish, and it's a staple at many weddings. It's a straightforward Toor Dal, and the way it's pressure cooked, together with the rice and pickle, gives it a traditional flavour.

Excursion

Shopping

This location is well-known for its art, pearls, and a variety of other products. Most significantly, there are numerous important retail locations where you can haggle, window shop, and purchase items.

  • Visakhapatnam's Old Book Market- If you are a book aficionado who appreciates reading a wide variety of books, come here and be astounded at the selection of old books available. Here you will find all non-academic works from antiquity. The selection of good novels is well worth investing in. This region is also known for its delicious samosas and food booths.

 

  • Kurupam Market, Visakhapatnam- It is a local market in Tawang Township that consists of small stores and roadside shacks that cater to the requirements of both locals and tourists. Local cafes and businesses selling traditional goods are the main attractions in this area. Porcelain and China clay crockery, as well as Chinese crockery, are commonly available. Flags, prayer wheels, Lord Buddha sculptures, wall hangings, and other Buddhist religious items can also be found here.

 

  • Tirumala Tirupati Market, Tirupati- This is one of Tirupati's busiest shopping locations, where you may pick up a variety of gifts to remember your visit to Lord Venkateswara Temple. The most popular products available are mallas, pilgrim attire, pooja pieces, and travel accessories. You can also buy homemade items to put in your home as decorations.

 

  • Lepakshi Handicrafts, Lepakshi- Lepakshi Handicrafts shops are one of the best places to shop in Andhra Pradesh. The Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation is a government initiative. Almost all of the state's arts and crafts are sold at Lepakshi Handicrafts shops, which can be found all around the state. All of the items are authentic and come at a reasonable price.

 

  • Cheriya Town and Pembarti, Warangal- If you wish to go shopping, there are two locations known as the city's centre. You will be unable to resist purchasing one if you come across one. Cheriya is a haven for wonderful handcrafted artwork. There are a myriad of things to pick from, ranging from religious feelings to modern art. Pembarti is a fantastic area to find metal artwork.

 

  • Vijayawada's MG Road- This is the place to go if you're looking for something tiny or to give as a present. The pieces are made of metal, stones, wood, marbles, and other materials. You'll find Kalamkari print silk pieces, as well as an art and craft store, in addition to silver jewellery.
     

Things To Do

Getting There

By Air – Hyderabad International Airport is the largest and only international airport in Andhra Pradesh. The other domestic airports in Andhra Pradesh include Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, and Tirupati.

By Railway – The Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station, popularly known as Nampally Station, is the busiest railway station in Hyderabad. It is owned and operated by South-Central Railways. It connects the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Vijayawada Junction, Visakhapatnam Junction, Tirupati Junction, and Dharmavaram Junction are all prominent railway stations in the state.

By Road – The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) serves as the state's major mode of public transportation, linking all of the state's cities and villages. Two of the state's main bus stations are the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station in Hyderabad and the Nehru Bus Stand in Vijayawada. Hundreds of thousands of private bus operators connect major cities and communities.

Shown Map