The gorgeous southeastern state of Andhra Pradesh in India is one of the most popular eco-tourist destinations in the country. With dense green forest cover, rivers, hills, caves and a wide variety of flora and fauna, this state is one with abounding beauty. From majestic temples, breathtaking waterfalls, azure beaches, beautiful valleys, mesmerizing heritage spots and rare endemic wildlife, Andhra Pradesh promises a cherished holiday with a reinvigorating interaction with nature coupled with exciting activities. Severely famous for adventure activities like swimming, surfing, trekking, hiking etc., Andhra Pradesh proves to be the most exotic location to have fun. We list 5 best trekking spots in Andhra Pradesh which will add spice to your holiday.
1. Ahobilam
Nestled in the dense cover of Nallamala forest, Ahobilam is located in the Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh. Situated 407 kilometers from Bangalore and 350 kilometers from Hyderabad, this site is also one of the most famous pilgrimage destinations in the state. It is said to be the dwelling place of Lord Narasimha, who was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He is believed to have killed the evil king Hiranyakashyapu here to save Prahlada, his son who was a devotee of Lord Vishnu. The Chalukya dynasty constructed the initial temples here in the 8th century followed by Vijaynagara kings who erected the later structures in the 15th century. Ideal for trekking, this enchanting location can easily consume your time. With rocky paths, sparkling waterfalls and caves, Ahobilam is the perfect place for an adventure and a brief look at history at the same time.
2. Sri Venkateswara National Park
Sprawling over 353 square kilometers of lush green land in the districts of Kadapa and Chitoor, Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. A great place for trekking, this land is home to animals like tiger, jackals, civets, panthers, ibex, deer, bears, Bonnet monkeys, bison etc. Also host to more than a hundred species of exotic birds, which include White Bellied Woodpecker, Kingfisher, Indian Roller, Crowned Finch Lark, Crested Serpent Eagle etc., this wildlife sanctuary offers an exhilarating trekking experience. Located 15 kilometers from Tirumala, the trekking trails here require a time of anything from half a day to three days. Several waterfalls like Gunjan and Gundalakona and many streams provide with the necessary drinking water.
3. Nagalapuram
288 kilometers from Bangalore and just 87 kilometers from Chennai, the temple town of Nagalapuram, in Tirupati, hosts the lovely Nagalapuram falls. The Nagalapuram falls trekking is a famous and fun activity here. Also known as Saddhi Koodu Madugu, this trekking adventure provides a wonderful experience with a dazzling view of the waterfalls. The town is also home to Sri Vedanarayana temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed to have been built by Krishna Devraya of Vijaynagara dynasty in the memory of his mother Nagala Devi, after whom the town is named.
4. Kadalivanam Caves
The historical caves of Kadalivanam are located close to Srisailam. A wonderful and exhaustive trek of about 12 kilometers through mountain ranges will find you near these caves. The forests of Kadalivanam are the largest Tiger reserve in India. A trek through these rocky paths will bring you a sight of a variety of animals like turtles, panthers, bears, crocodiles etc. Located on the banks of river Krishna, Kadalivanam trekking begins with a calm ride on a boat. The trek concludes at the caves which hold idols of Akkamahadevi and Narasimha Saraswati. All in all, Kadalivanam promises a fascinating trekking experience.
5. Gandikota Fort and Valley
Deriving its name from ‘gandi‘ or gorge in Telegu, this fort is the result of a gorge formed by the Erramala hills and the river Penneru. Set in the breathtaking beauty of the lush forest, sloping hill ranges, spellbinding valleys and full of brimming life, Gandikota is situated 350 kilometers from the city of Hyderabad. The trekking experienced here has earned Gandikota the accolade of the ‘Grand Canyon of India‘.
