Andhra Pradesh
While India has seen economic and social progress like never before over the last decade, some states have not just participated in the growth, but led it. Andhra Pradesh, the nation’s fourth largest state by area and fifth largest state by population is one such prime example. A hotbed of political action, social developments and economic progress, Andhra Pradesh has come to represent diversity, progress and of course, abundant natural beauty. From religious places to film complexes to forts to gardens, Andhra Pradesh has something to delight everyone.
Location
Andhra Pradesh is located on the south east coast of India, boasting of the second longest coastline amongst all states in India. It is bordered by Maharashtra, Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, while a gleaming Bay of Bengal kisses it on the eastern side. The state is also blessed with two great rivers – Godavari and Krishna, which add to the natural resources of Andhra Pradesh strongly.
Places to see
With a diverse face, rich history and a progressive future, Andhra Pradesh puts forth many travel attractions for one to explore and experience. While we list only a few below, one has to visit the state and soak in its many sights and sounds to experience the completeness and richness of the wonderful state of Andhra Pradesh.
Hyderabad : With Andhra Pradesh being one of the pioneers of IT development in India, it is no wonder that the state capital of Hyderabad is today known also as Cyberabad. Also known as the ‘City of Pearls’ due to a number of fine pearls the city is known for, Hyderabad contains within itself many places with different hues and aspects. A tribute to the traditional Islamic architecture, the monument looks especially stunning at nights as it is illuminated to wonderful and awe-inspiring effect.
Charminar, Hyderabad : With its name literally meaning ‘The Mosque of Four Minarets’, Charminar is one of the most famous mosque and monument in Andhra Pradesh. Built in 1591 by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the Charminar is a tall and strong testimony of a regal heritage Andhra Pradesh has seen. And as if the monument itself was not enough, one can experience a chaotic, yet bustlingly interesting market around the monument. You can pick up jewellery, pearls and bangles here. Make sure you do, because if you visit the City of Pearls and do not buy any pearls, you are sure missing out on something!
Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad : One of the largest Film Studio Complexes in the world, this place in Andhra Pradesh is a delight for those who love movies and are interested in the art of making them. With over 5000 astounding set locations, this place is enough to make you fall into a lifelong affair with Indian movies. The place boats of a strong legacy and many a movie has been shot completely or partially at this venue. And even if you are not a movie fanatic, you are sure to have a good time here with multiple recreational facilities. If you are visiting Andhra Pradesh, this place should be one of the top places on your list of places to see. It is located on the Hyderabad Vijayawada highway, and is easily accessible.
Golconda Fort, Golconda : Another majestic testimony of Andhra Pradesh's royal past, the Golconda Fort is an imposing monument which finds place in the state. Built in the 13th century by the kaktiya kings, the fort is located on a hill which further adds to the charm of the monument. We urge you to visit the Golconda Fort for gaining a peek into the royalty and wealth which has defined the past of Andhra Pradesh.
Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad : One of the most enchanting and royal monuments you shall ever see not just in Andhra Pradesh, but in the world, this palace is a reflection of the splendor and finery the royalty of Andhra, Pradesh has seen. One can view the entire city from the Palace, and with 220 lavish rooms in its lap, the Palace is luxury contained within walls.
Tirupati Balaji : A religious place from Andhra Pradesh which attracts pilgrims from across the nation in large numbers, Tiraupti Balaji located in Tirupati is one of the most important religious places of the nation. Include it during your trip to Andhra Pradesh for a blessing of the divine powers.
Rajiv Gandhi Park, Vijayawada Bhavani Island : A mesmerising collection of gardens and musical fountains, this park is a feast for the senses. You can take a leisurely walk here, or be awed by the wonderful display of fountains which dance to musical tunes with a beautiful grace. A mini zoo just adds to the attraction, especially if you have any kids with you!
Vishakapatnam : One of the most important and bustling cities of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam is also known as Vizag. It is home to a large port and one of the oldest shipyards in the country. It has many attractions for the tourists in the form of cultural events and historical monuments. Being the second largest city in the state, it is extremely crucial for the overall progress and development of Andhra Pradesh. One indication of the importance and beauty of this city is how people describe it – As the Jewel of the East Coast. Some of the more prominent places to see you can add to your list when visiting this city are the famous submarine museum, Ramakrishna Mission, the imposing Gateway hotel and the third century BC Buddhist ruins of Thotlakonda.
Tirumala : A beautiful hill town which is also the location for the famous Sri Venkateswara temple built by the Chola Kings in 300 A.D. The Tirumala Hill is another gem from this Andhra Pradesh, a collection of seven peaks of great beauty and high religious importance.
How to reach
Being one of the most commercially and politically active states of the nation, one faces no problems travelling to or within Andhra Pradesh. Enjoying strong connectivity with almost every Indian city via air and road, travelling is the least of worries for you during your trip to Andhra Pradesh.
By Air: A number of airports are situated in Andhra Pradesh, thus ensuring that you can travel to Andhra Pradesh quickly and conveniently. To name a few, there are airports at Hyderabad, Vizag, Warangal, Tirupati and Vijawada.
By Rail: An extremely robust railroad infrastructure in the state means one can easily travel to and within the state. A host of railway stations exist in the state.
By Road: A very integrated and well constructed roadways structure in the state adds to the travel ease. You can easily use a public or private operator to move within the state.
What to do
With a diverse range of attractions in the state, one can experience very different places within Andhra Pradesh. From the majesty of the Charminar to the sacred chants of Tirupati Balaji, or from the excitement of discovery at Ramoji Palace to the awe inspiring presence of the Golconda Fort, every place in Andhra Pradesh has an appeal of its own. On the whole, it can be said that Andhra Pradesh is not a hill station, but an equally beautiful and alive place to be at. It offers unmatched diversity and brings a multitude of enchanting experiences to the tourists. One should expect this state to be delightful, rich, deep and surprising at the same time.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Andhra Pradesh is between the months of October to February, when the weather is most pleasant and mild. Essentially a hot and humid state, other seasons such as summers, winters or monsoons are rather extreme, hence making this period the most pleasant and moderate.
History
Andhra Pradesh is said to have one of the most enriched and learned historical heritage amongst the states in India. Displaying strong influences from Buddhism and as well as Sanskrit, the state is said to have given birth to the language of Telegu. The state has seen many rules such as the Cholas, Pallavas, Chalukyas and the Mauryans, each of these dynasties adding to the heritage and development of the state in their own ways.
Later on, the British gained control of parts of the state, while the Nizams continued to hold other parts by being granted local autonomy. After India’s independence in 1947, the Nizam wanted to continue his rule over the Princely state of Hyderabad, but the people demanded that it be established as democratic part of India. Hence in 1948, as a result of Operation Polo, Hyderabad was established as a part of the Republic of India.
Climate
The state of Andhra Pradesh is generally observant of rather hot and humid weather. The state continues to receive intermittent rainfall all during the year. The summers last from March to June, with the temperatures ranging from 20 degree Celsius to 40 degree Celsius. Rains hit the state in a big way between July to September, with strong influence from the north east monsoons. Winters last from October to February, with the temperatures tending more towards the 15 degree Celsius mark.
