In this article, we provide comprehensive information about the geography, economy, population, and top tourist destinations of Bangalore. Araku Valley is a stunning hill station nestled in the Eastern Ghats, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage.
| About: | Araku Valley is a hill station and valley region in the southeastern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It’s surrounded by the thick forests of the Eastern Ghats mountain range. The Tribal Museum is dedicated to the area’s numerous indigenous tribes, known for their traditional Dhimsa dance, and showcases traditional handicrafts. A miniature train runs through Padmapuram Gardens, with its sculptures and tree-top huts. |
| Geography: | Araku is situated in the Western Ghats, approximately 114 kilometers (71 miles) from Visakhapatnam, near the Odisha state border. The Anantagiri and Sunkarimetta Reserved Forests, part of Araku Valley, boast rich biodiversity and are known for bauxite mining. Galikonda Hill, which rises to about 5,000 feet (1,500 meters), is one of the highest peaks in Andhra Pradesh. The average annual rainfall is around 1,700 millimeters (67 inches), primarily occurring from June to October. The valley itself extends roughly 36 kilometers. |
| Economy: | Tea was first introduced in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh in 1259 by the British in the Pamuleru valley, located in the West Godavari district. It later spread to the Araku Valley in the early 13th century. After India gained independence, the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department began developing coffee plantations in the valley. In 1956, the Coffee Board appointed the Andhra Pradesh Girijan Cooperative Corporation Limited (GCC) to promote coffee cultivation among local tribal farmers. By 1985, the plantations were transferred to the A.P. Forest Development Corporation, and the GCC established the Girijan Cooperative Plantation Development Corporation (GCPDC) specifically to enhance coffee plantations in tribal regions. All plantations developed by the GCC and GCPDC were allocated to tribal farmers, with each family receiving two acres of land. Additionally, apiculture farms have flourished in Araku, leading to the commercial production of various types of flavored honey. |
| History: | |
| Country : | India |
| State: | Andhra Pradesh |
| District: | Alluri Sitharama Raju district |
| Population: | 56,674 (2011 Census) |
| Language: | Telugu |
| Major Attractions to Visit: | Borra Caves Ananthagiri Chaparai / Chaaparai Tribal Museum Katiki / Katika Waterfalls Padmapuram Gardens Tadimada Waterfalls / Anantagiri Waterfalls Mastyagundam Duduma Waterfalls |
