Sri Venkateswara swamy temple in Amaravati build by TTD.
The TTD board going to be bulit the temple of Lord Venkateswara at the State capital of Amaravati at a cost of ₹150 crore. The construction of the temple would be taken up in the 25 acres of land allotted to it at Venkatapalem (Thulluru mandal) in Amaravati. The temple architecture which shall be a fusion of Pallava, Chola, Chalukya and Vijayanagara styles shall be initially built in five acres and the rest will be developed in a phased manner to suit the temple requirements.
The temple coming up at Amravati will draw inspiration from all of these temples.
Flamingo Festival : Flamingo festival at the famous brackish water lake Pulicat in Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary located at Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh.In Sullurupeta held from January 20,21,22.
This festival is being held for the last 16 years to attract tourists to the sanctuary from the state and neighbouring states but lack of publicity has been the reason for poor attendance from the neighbouring state. This is one of the reasons for planning wide publicity in Chennai city to highlight the unique festival to the metro citizens and generate interest to ensure their attendance.
Flamingo festival provides an unique opportunity for people, particularly ornithologists, environmentalists, bird watchers, forest and tourism officials to not only study the bio-diversity of Pulicat and Nellapattu Bird Sanctuary, but also initiate measure to conserve the bio-zones for future generations. Pulicat lake, which is spread over an extent of 460 sq km, has Sulurpet, Dorvari Satram, Vakadu and Kota mandals in Nellore district bordering it. Thousands of birds of nearly 240 species visit the lake during winter. The annual visitation of birds, makes Pulicat and Nellapattu, a visual delight.
The winged species will prepare nests, brood the eggs and return to their native places along with their young ones by April.The migratory birds regularly visiting the district, include pelicans, flemingos, painted strokes, red legged cranes, pintails and black-winged birds.
Andhra Pradesh’s Hot Air Balloon Festival at Araku Valley from January 18 to 20.
15 countries with 20 Hot Air Balloons participating in the festival being organized by AP Tourism in association with Delhi based E-Factor and Sky Walt, the names behind the popular Taj Balloon Festival in Agra. A team from Delhi was on a two-day visit to the Araku Valley to finalize the event location. The camping site and balloon festival venue has been identified and the festival will be organized on a par with international standards.
The Araku Hot Air Balloon Festival will feature 20 balloons from countries like the UK, Switzerland, the US., Japan, Malaysia and Taiwan. The specially shaped balloons will resemble iconic characters, such as Bruno Clown, Honey Bee, Baby Car and Happy Chicken.
Highlights of the balloon Festival Araku
HOT AIR BALLOONING:
16 Balloons from 13 countries will fly over the magnificent Araku Valley presenting a visual delight for spectators on the ground and guests on board the balloons. There will be one morning flight followed by tethered flights in the evening. The night glows will be another grand spectacle where the inflated balloons will create a magic of light and colours to the accompaniment of music
PARA-MOTORING
The festival will see its share of hi octane adrenaline pumping flights by para motorists that are sure to wow the assembly of spectators
CAMP STAYS
Araku Balloon Festival presents a Glamping experience at Luxury Tents set up with all modern amenities and a thorough feel of the outdoors.
EXCURSIONS
The Picturesque Araku Valley has many facets for an explorer to seek. Daily guided excursions have been planned within the quantum of time in hand.
HOW TO REACH
The Total Distance between Visakhapatnam to Araku: 114 Kms (3 Hrs 15 Mins approx) Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley By Bus: This route has many different types of buses operating. E. g. Non AC Airbus, AC Sleeper (2+1), Non AC Sleeper (2+1), Volvo A/C Deluxe Semi-sleeper, Volvo A/C Multi-Axle Semi-sleeper. Government and private buses run frequently between Visakhapatnam and Araku Valley. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley By Train: Trains are available from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley, a journey of about 3 hours. Araku is the nearest railway station. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley By Car: Hire a taxi from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley to travel by road.
chance to win a hot air balloon flight at the Araku Balloon Festival.
‘Visakha Utsav-2018’ three-day festival, scheduled from December 28 to
30. RK Beach Road will be the main venue for all sorts of events, VUDA Park
will have the flower show and cultural programmes. Meanwhile,
Shilparamam Jaathara will thrill audience with traditional folk
performances like ‘Tappeta Gullu’, ‘Garagalu’, Punjabi Folk, ‘Kommu
Koyya’ etc; apart from having number of handicraft stalls for the
visitors.
VIJAYAWADA: A three-day Vijayawada Airshow, Amaravati Tourism Development Corporation and FICCI will jointly host this event on the banks of river Krishna here from November 23rd to 25th. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will participate in the opening day and closing day functions of the Air Show.
The UK team, Global Stars team, with four Aircraft will perform
breathtaking manoeuvres such as formations of loops and barrel rolls.The air show will be held for a duration of 15 minutes -- 11 am to 11.15 am and 4 pm to 4.15 pm.
Dates:November 23, 24, 25 Timings: 11 am - 11.15 am 4 pm to 4.15 pm
The 182-metre tall
'Statue of Unity', dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, on the birth anniversary of India's first home minister.The
towering monument, Erected at Sadhu Bet, 3.32 km from the Sardar
Sarovar Dam on the Narmada river at Kevadia,Gujarat. Its a dream project of Prime
Minister Narendra Modi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel popularly known as the 'Iron Man
of India'.Its nearly Rs 3,000-crore project, built on a public-private
partnership (PPP) basis by engineering giant L&T under the
supervision of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Ltd (SSNNL).
The memorial is dedicated to Patel, credited with integrating 562 princely states with the Union of India.The 'Statue of Unity' is now the world's tallest statue, according to the project's website. The 'Statue of Unity' will provide visitors a meaningful experience that both educates and entertains, by focusing on Patel's personage, life, and accomplishments.
Visakhapatnam: Two-day Bheemili Utsav on November 10 and 11. The State government, as part of the tourism promotional activities, is conducting the Bheemili Utsav every year. During the event various competitions being conducted involving all walks of the life.
Day 1:
Boat competitions would be conducted to fishermen.
carnival on ‘JanaPada,’
‘Jalari Dance’ Thimsa Dance would be performed. “This year, the most popular small screen programmes ‘Dhee’ dance team and ‘Jabardasth’ team will perform various skits,”.
Beach boxing and musical concert would enthrall the audience, he added. Day 2: Kuchipudi dancers would perform the programmes.
RamaKrishna Beach: Golden Sands, Blue Waters, and a Blend of Culture & Leisure on Vizag’s Iconic Beach
When it comes to Visakhapatnam tourism, the first place that comes to mind is the iconic RamaKrishna Beach, popularly known as RK Beach. Located along the Bay of Bengal, RK Beach is not just a seaside destination but also a hub for recreation, culture, and local life. Whether you want to relax on the golden sands, enjoy street food, or explore nearby attractions, RK Beach offers a little something for everyone.
1. Highlights of RamaKrishna Beach
🌊 Picturesque Seashore – Long stretches of sand with stunning sunrise and sunset views.
🚢 INS Kursura Submarine Museum – A decommissioned submarine turned into a museum right on the shore.
🐠 Matsyadarshini Aquarium – Perfect for families and kids.
🍴 Street Food Delights – From spicy Mirchi Bajji to fresh seafood.
Watch Sunrise & Sunset – The beach is known for its breathtaking views.
Visit Submarine & Aircraft Museums – Learn about India’s naval history.
Try Local Snacks – Don’t miss hot bajjis and seafood along the promenade.
Stroll Along the Beach Road – A well-maintained walkway with sculptures, parks, and fountains.
Shopping & Souvenirs – Small stalls selling handicrafts and local items.
3. Nearby Attractions
Kailasagiri Hilltop Park – Ropeway ride and panoramic city views.
VUDA Park – Greenery, musical fountains, and kids’ play areas.
Tenneti Park – A seaside park with beautiful viewpoints.
Visakha Museum – Showcasing history, art, and cultural heritage.
4. Best Time to Visit RK Beach
October to March – Pleasant weather, great for sightseeing and beach activities.
Early mornings and evenings are the best for enjoying the beach without the heat.
5. How to Reach RamaKrishna Beach
By Road: Located just 4 km from Visakhapatnam city center, easily accessible by auto, cab, or bus.
By Train: Nearest station – Visakhapatnam Railway Station (~5 km).
By Air: Visakhapatnam International Airport (~12 km).
6. Travel Tips
Swimming is not advisable due to strong currents.
Carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Visit during weekdays for less crowd and peaceful experience.
Keep valuables safe while enjoying the beach.
Visakha Utsav, the annual festival of the district always gives a greater importance to the RK Beach. Andhra University conducts special research projects at the beach to save the Sea Tortoises during their breeding seasons.
Ananthagiri Hills:Lush Forests, Coffee Plantations, and Peaceful Getaways Near Hyderabad
Nestled in the Vikarabad district of Telangana, Ananthagiri Hills is one of the state’s most beautiful and lesser-known hill destinations. Known for its dense forests, coffee plantations, waterfalls, and trekking trails, this serene spot is perfect for a weekend escape from Hyderabad.
Apart from its natural charm, Ananthagiri Hills is also a place of spiritual importance, with ancient temples and a tranquil atmosphere that attracts both nature lovers and pilgrims.
1. Attractions in Ananthagiri Hills
Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple – A centuries-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, attracting devotees from across the region.
Ananthagiri View Point – Offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush greenery.
Trekking Trails – Multiple trails through coffee plantations and thick forests, perfect for beginner and moderate-level trekkers.
Kotepally Lake – A calm lake popular for kayaking, camping, and photography.
Nagasamudram Lake – Known as a “hidden lake” surrounded by scenic hills.
2. Best Time to Visit
Monsoon (July–September) – Lush greenery and small waterfalls come alive.
Winter (October–February) – Cool climate for sightseeing and camping.
Avoid summer afternoons as it can get warm.
3. How to Reach
By Road: Only 80 km from Hyderabad, a 2-hour drive via Vikarabad Road.
By Train: Nearest railway station – Vikarabad Junction (6 km away).
By Air: Nearest airport – Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (~75 km).
4. Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Start from Hyderabad early morning.
Visit Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple.
Explore trekking trails and coffee plantations.
Enjoy sunset at Ananthagiri View Point.
Day 2:
Morning kayaking at Kotepally Lake.
Visit Nagasamudram Lake.
Return to Hyderabad by evening.
5. Travel Tips
Carry drinking water and snacks, as shops are limited.
Wear comfortable shoes for trekking.
Early morning and late evenings are the most scenic times for photography.
