People passing through coffee plantations on the new wooden bridge developed by AP Forest Development Corporation near Galikonda Viewpoint near Araku, 150 km from Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
Tranquil landscapes, lush coffee plantations and glimpses of tribal culture: this winter Araku offers experiences that are a blend of adventure, nature and culture. Here’s a look at five attractions worth seeing during a trip to this lush valley.
walking through the woods
People passing through a cabbage field near Araku, 150 km from Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
Hidden within the leafy folds of Ananthagiri’s coffee plantations, a wooden bridge invites visitors into the embrace of nature. The 120 meter long wooden bridge, aptly named Aranya, built by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Development Corporation near Sunkarametta, is more than a walkway – it is an experience. This recently inaugurated bridge meanders beautifully through the heart of the coffee plantation. Nestled beneath the lush canopy of tall silver oak trees, their slender forms sway gently in the misty breeze. The air is rich with the aroma of coffee and black pepper, as the vines wrap around the oak trunks. Aranya doesn’t just offer walks; It offers a place to stay. Two wooden decks along the bridge provide ideal spots to enjoy panoramic views of the plantations below. A quaint tree hut adds to the charm, inviting visitors to climb up and view the vast greenery from a unique vantage point.
Adding a touch of culture to the scenes are three women from nearby Madagada village, who have set up a costume corner for visitors. Here, you can wear tribal attire and take photographs amidst the plantation backdrop. “This place is booming, especially on weekends,” says K Krishna, a forest department staff member who oversees entry tickets. “The influx of tourists has been remarkable because of the attractions and the intense activities. A dedicated selfie point is also in the works, which will ensure that every visitor leaves with a souvenir. On the other hand, the winding roads leading to this place are clogged with vehicles on weekends, as the peak tourist season has begun.
The entry ticket costs ₹50 and timings are 8.30 am to 5.30 pm
floating above the mist
People ride on a hot air balloon moored at Padmapuram Garden in Araku, 150 km from Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
The recently introduced hot air balloon ride at Padmapuram Gardens in Araku is an experience that is attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike. Priced at ₹1,500 per person, the ride is a three-minute journey in the sky. Despite being tethered for safety, the balloon climbs to such a height that breathtaking views of Araku’s tranquil landscape are visible. Starting at 6.30 am, the ride is perfectly timed to capture the beauty of the sunrise, when mist hangs over the fields and the first rays of sunlight bathe the valleys in golden hues. From the vantage point of the balloon, Padmapuram Gardens reveals itself in a new light. Neatly landscaped gardens with seasonal flowers spread out below like a vivid patchwork quilt. The strapped design ensures safety, making it suitable even for first-time travelers or families with children. For photography enthusiasts, this ride provides an opportunity to capture the natural charm of Araku from a bird’s eye view.
A journey through indigenous culture
People view exhibits at the renovated Tribal Museum in Araku, 150 km from Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
The renovated Tribal Museum in Araku offers visitors a journey through the cultural tapestry of the area’s indigenous communities. With its advanced exhibits, the museum stands as a testament to the rich heritage, customs and lifestyle of the tribal groups living in the Eastern Ghats. The main attraction of the museum is the series of well-lit, life-size sculptures and colorful paintings that bring to life the daily routines, celebrations and traditions of the tribal communities. From sculptural depictions of a tribal family preparing a meal in a bamboo hut, to vivid depictions of their ceremonial dances and bustling weekly hut (market), every exhibit exudes authenticity and attention to detail. Strategic lighting emphasizes the intricate features of the sculptures, making the scenes appear almost lifelike.
A fascinating exhibit depicts the lifestyle of the Gadaba tribe of Paderu who live in mud houses with walls decorated with red and black mud. Another exhibit shows women weaving small baskets from leaves, expressions of concentration and joy etched on their faces. The vibrancy of a tribal festival is captured in another display featuring drummers and dancers dressed in traditional attire. The realism of these sculptures immerses visitors in the essence of tribal life, offering a glimpse of their customs and values. Each exhibit has a detailed information board, providing information on the importance of tribal rituals, agricultural practices and craftsmanship. The museum’s new landscaped surroundings complement the exhibitions inside. The place also includes adventure activities like obstacle courses, sky cycling and ziplines.
a quiet retreat
A view of Mandala Farm in Araku, 150 km from Visakhapatnam. , Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
For those looking for a peaceful escape, the newly opened Mandala Farm in Araku offers a retreat that bridges the gap between modern luxury and the tranquility of nature. The residences at Mandala have been thoughtfully designed to reflect its commitment towards creating a sustainable setup. The high-ceilinged cottages, each with a wooden staircase leading to an additional floor, represent the essence of an eco-friendly lifestyle with a harmonious blend of minimalism and comfort. The large windows offered a beautiful view of the hills and the earthy tone of the interior made one feel warm. The absence of television is a deliberate choice, encouraging guests to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. This eco-conscious retreat takes meaningful steps to advocate no-plastic policies. Here, single-use plastic products are conspicuously absent. Food is served to guests in refillable steel bottles, bamboo baskets and reusable crockery and paper plates. The area is planning to open a farm-to-table food concept prepared from freshly harvested produce.
(Contact the farm on Instagram handle @mandalafarms_arakuvalley)
discussion of natural farming
People passing through a cabbage field near Araku, 150 km from Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
Araku’s farming community is known for its natural farming practices, and this is the perfect time to see the farmers at work. As the harvest season begins, the fields are filled with a variety of vegetables. Visitors can walk around these farms, interact with farmers and learn about their natural farming methods.
The nearest farm extension can be found at Gorapur, the next station on the Araku railway line. Here, the fields are a feast for the eyes, with cabbage, tomato and paddy fields stretching as far as the eye can see. The villagers take the harvested produce to the weekly hut at Araku on Friday and to Sunkarametta on Sunday morning.
published – December 13, 2024 07:16 am IST
