Araku Valley, India, has an amazing hill station that is located in the Eastern Ghats. This scenic area, which lies at a height of 911 meters above sea level, is a sanctuary for both outdoor enthusiasts and ecotourism lovers. Seeking only about 120 kilometers from Visakhapatnam (Vizag), a coastal city, you can easily get to this valley by using any of the road or rail means available. The area is very popular because it houses rich vegetation as well as misty hills that are dotted with coffee plants. The journey to this serene hill station is itself an experience; every curve on the route offers panoramic views.
Moreover, Araku Valley has some indigenous tribes dwelling in it. Their cultural heritage significantly contributes to the charisma of this region. Tourists may therefore explore these people’s customs as well as their arts and crafts, providing them with additional depth about their culture during their visits. Apart from those stated above, there are uncountable numbers of natural resources within Araku Valley, such as waterfalls, caves, and viewpoints, making it an ideal place for anyone seeking a combination of leisure activities and adventure tourism. Consequently, Araku Valley caters to all kinds of travelers because it has different destinations available for each one of them, who will always cherish their stay here with memories refreshed afresh. We now want to look at what exactly are the options of things to do in Araku Valley, when one travels to Araku Valley.
Top 15 Things to do in Araku Valley
1. Padmapuram Gardens
Padmapuram Gardens is a popular spot in Araku Valley. It was built during World War II to grow vegetables for soldiers. Now, it is a beautiful garden with many exotic plants and flowers. You can see pine trees, eucalyptus, roses, and orchids here. The garden also has hanging cottages, which are unique and interesting. These cottages are 10 feet high and have toilets and a water supply. You can also enjoy a toy train ride around the garden.
- Timings: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Entry Fees: INR 40 for adults, INR 20 for kids
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
2. Coffee Museum
If you love coffee, visiting the Coffee Museum is a must. This is one of the best things to do in the Araku Valley. It showcases the history and making of Arabica coffee. The museum was set up in 1930. It has 60 varieties of coffee and 600 types of coffee chocolates. You can taste different coffee flavors and enjoy delicious chocolates. There is also a coffee house where you can relax and enjoy other treats like tarts, mousses, brownies, and sandwiches.
- Timings: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
3. Tribal Museum
The Tribal Museum is a great place to learn about the tribal people of the region. Exploring the tribal museum is among the top things to do in Araku Valley. It is 110 kilometers from Vizag and easily accessible. The museum is made of metal, mud, and other local materials. It has artifacts and items that show the history and culture of the tribal people. You can see clay pottery, paintings, musical instruments, and masks. The museum also has a section for arts and crafts, a cafeteria, and rooms for visitors.
- Timings: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Entry Fees: INR 40 for adults, INR 20 for kids
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
4. Galikonda View Point
Galikonda View Point is one of the highest points in Araku Valley. It is 4320 feet above sea level. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the valleys, streams, and rivers. The view is especially beautiful in winter. Visiting this viewpoint is one of the best things to do in Araku Valley. The viewpoint is open 24 hours a day, so you can visit anytime.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
5. Ananthagiri WaterFalls
Ananthagiri WaterFalls is a must-visit spot in Araku Valley. It is 30 kilometers from Araku and has a beautiful landscape. The waterfalls are surrounded by lush green coffee plantations and thick rainforests. Exploring these waterfalls is one of the top things to do in Araku Valley. The site is perfect for nature lovers and couples. You can reach the waterfalls by walking 20 minutes from the main road.
- Timings: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
6. Katiki Waterfall
Katiki Waterfall is another beautiful spot in Araku Valley. Visiting Katiki Waterfall is one of the best things to do in Araku Valley. It is near Borra Caves and Katiki Village. To reach the waterfall, you need to take a 7-kilometer jeep ride and then trek for 2 kilometers. The trek is a bit challenging, but worth it. The waterfall is surrounded by green vegetation and has a romantic setting. You can enjoy the fresh air and the sound of the waterfall.
- Timings: 6 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
7. Chaparai Water Cascade
Chaparai Water Cascade is a unique spot in Araku Valley. It looks like a waterfall but is actually a cascade with large rocks. The water flows over the rocks, creating a beautiful sight. Visiting this cascade is one of the most refreshing things to do in Araku Valley. The area is surrounded by greenery, making it a perfect spot for a picnic. You can buy a ticket for INR 10 to enter the site.
- Timings: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
8. Borra Caves
Borra Caves are one of the most famous attractions in Araku Valley. Exploring Borra Caves is among the top things to do in Araku Valley. These limestone caves were discovered in 1807 and are known for their stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. The caves have natural skylights that let in sunlight, creating a beautiful play of light and shadow. The local tribes consider these caves sacred.
- Timings: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Best Time to Visit: November–FFebruary
9. Dumbriguda Waterfalls
Dumbriguda Waterfalls, also known as Chaparai Waterfalls, is a beautiful spot near Araku Valley. It is a popular picnic spot with its cascading waters and natural rock formations. Visiting Dumbriguda Waterfalls is one of the enjoyable things to do in Araku Valley. The area is surrounded by forests, making it a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature.
- Timings: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
10. Tyda Park
Tyda Park is a great place for adventure lovers. It is a nature camp located between Vizag and Araku Valley. Engaging in activities at Tyda Park is one of the most adventurous things to do in Araku Valley. You can enjoy activities like trekking, rock climbing, and bird watching here. The park also offers camping facilities, so you can stay overnight and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
11. Matsyagundam
Matsyagundam is a sacred place near Araku Valley. It is a small pond with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visiting Matsyagundam is one of the spiritual things to do in Araku Valley. The pond is home to many fish, and it is believed that feeding them brings good luck. The area around Matsyagundam is peaceful and perfect for a quiet retreat.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
12. Sangda Waterfalls
Sangda Waterfalls is another beautiful spot near Araku Valley. It is less known but equally stunning. Exploring Sangda Waterfalls is one of the serene things to do in Araku Valley. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and offers a serene environment. It is a great place for nature lovers and photographers.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
13. Tatipudi Reservoir
Tatipudi Reservoir is a scenic spot near Araku Valley. It is a large reservoir surrounded by hills and greenery. Enjoying a day at Tatipudi Reservoir is one of the relaxing things to do in Araku Valley. The reservoir is a source of water for the nearby areas and a popular spot for boating and picnics. The view of the reservoir at sunset is particularly beautiful.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
14. Rishikonda Beach
Rishikonda Beach is a beautiful beach near Araku Valley. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea. Visiting Rishikonda Beach is one of the fun things to do in Araku Valley. The beach is clean and has golden sands. You can also enjoy water sports like swimming, jet skiing, and windsurfing here.
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
15. Submarine Museum
The Submarine Museum in Vizag is an interesting place to visit near Araku Valley. It is a real submarine turned into a museum. Exploring the Submarine Museum is one of the educational things to do in Araku Valley. The museum gives you a glimpse into the lives of submariners and the workings of a submarine.
- Timings: 2 PM–8:30 PM
- Entry Fees: INR 40 for adults, INR 20 for kids
- Best Time to Visit: October–MMarch
Final Thoughts
A true jewel of the Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is a place where people can find a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. It doesn’t matter whether you are an eco-enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or simply want to relax; exploring what to do in Araku Valley will give you unforgettable memories. It can be anything from the lush Padmapuram Gardens or Coffee Museum and the ancient Borra Caves to scenic views from Galikonda View Point. Every moment spent in Araku Valley is a delight to the senses.
Araku Valley visit will make you feel as if you have entered a peaceful and untouched world where you can enjoy nature once again with simple life’s joy. The best time to visit October-March is when the climate is really pleasant and this valley is in its best possible state. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Araku Valley, where each day is spent with full of pleasure in doing various things to do in Araku Valley and adding moments that will forever stay with us.
