Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Katiki Waterfalls – A Scenic Gem Near Araku Valley

Located away in the lush greenery of Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh, Katiki Waterfalls is a stunning cascade that flows from the Gosthani River. Located near the famous Borra Caves and Araku Valley, this waterfall is a favorite destination for trekkers, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts. Falling from a height of around 50 ft, Katiki is surrounded by dense forests and coffee plantations, making it a refreshing escape into nature.  

Katiki Waterfalls

Why Visit Katiki Waterfalls?

  • A scenic waterfall near Araku Valley and Borra Caves.

  • Perfect for trekking, photography, and picnics.

  • Surrounded by coffee plantations and tribal hamlets.

  • Accessible via an adventurous jeep ride and short trek.

Best Time to Visit

  • Monsoon & Post-Monsoon (July to October): The waterfall is at its fullest and most spectacular.

  • Winter (November – February): Pleasant weather and clear views, ideal for trekking.

  • Avoid peak summer (March – May): Water flow is reduced.

How to Reach Katiki Waterfalls

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam Airport (100 km).

  • By Train: The closest railway station is Borra Guhalu (7 km) on the Vizag–Araku line.

  • By Road: Well connected from Visakhapatnam (90 km) and Araku Valley (20 km). From the base, visitors must take a jeep ride (~3 km) followed by a trek (~1 km) to reach the falls.

Entry Fee & Timings

  • Entry Fee: Free, but jeep ride charges apply (~₹200–₹300 per person).

  • Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

🗓️ 1-Day Itinerary for Katiki Waterfalls

Morning:

  • Start early from Visakhapatnam (around 6:00 AM) or stay overnight at Araku Valley.

  • Have breakfast at Araku and proceed to Borra Caves.

Late Morning (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM):

  • Explore the ancient Borra Caves with their fascinating stalactites and stalagmites.

  • Drive towards Katiki base point.

Afternoon (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM):

  • Take the adventurous jeep ride (3 km) and enjoy a short trek (1 km).

  • Reach the beautiful Katiki Falls and spend time relaxing, taking pictures, and enjoying the surroundings.

Evening (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM):

  • Return to Araku Valley and explore coffee plantations or tribal markets.

  • Start return journey to Visakhapatnam.

Night:

  • Reach Vizag by late evening.

👉 Tip: Carry extra clothes if you plan to take a dip in the water. 

Accommodation Options Near Katiki Waterfalls / Araku Valley

Since Katiki is located in a forest area, there are no hotels right next to the waterfall. However, Araku Valley and Borra Caves offer a variety of stays:

🏨 Resorts & Mid-Range Stays

  • Maryland Resorts, Araku – Scenic luxury stay with modern amenities. (marylandresortaraku.com)

  • Tyda Jungle Bells Resort (AP Tourism) – Eco-friendly cottages amidst jungle surroundings. (tripzilla.in)

💰 Budget Hotels

  • Haritha Hill Resort (AP Tourism) – Affordable stay with good views. (360critix.com)

  • Nature’s Nest Araku – Simple rooms, peaceful surroundings. (360critix.com)

🌿 Boutique & Homestays

  • Good Morning Resorts – Cozy stay with homely vibes. (360critix.com)

  • Bansi Resorts – Family-friendly, nature-rich environment. (360critix.com)

  • Local Tribal Homestays – Budget-friendly and cultural experience. (go2india.in)

👉 Tip: Book early during weekends and monsoon season as Araku gets crowded.

Accommodation Options Near Katiki Waterfalls / Araku Valley

TypeNameApproximate Price*What You Get / Highlights
Luxury / Mid-Range ResortsMaryland Resorts, ArakuModerate to HighScenic ambiance, modern amenities, good service, WiFi, breakfast included. Great base for exploring Katiki.

Tyda Jungle Bells Resort₹3,000-₹5,500/nightEco-friendly cottages, jungle surroundings, campfire & nature treks. Ideal for nature lovers.
Budget / Value HotelsHaritha Hill Resort₹1,500-₹3,000/nightGovt-run resort, hilltop views, budget-friendly, simple amenities.

Nature’s Nest, Araku₹1,800-₹3,500/nightCozy rooms, garden or terrace views, calm atmosphere. Good for solo travelers or small groups.
Boutique / Unique StaysGood Morning Resorts~₹1,800-₹3,500/nightHomely atmosphere, nice interiors, good service. Offers more comfort on a lesser budget.

Bansi Resorts~₹2,000-₹3,500/nightPeaceful, rustic environment, decent facilities. Ideal for families looking to unwind.
Very Budget / Basic StaysHomestays / Guesthouses in Araku₹700-₹1,500/night (basic rooms)Simple, sometimes tribal-style cottages, basic amenities, more immersive local experience. Good for backpackers or those who don’t need luxury.

Nearby Attractions

  • Borra Caves – A natural wonder with limestone formations (~7 km).

  • Araku Valley – A scenic hill station (~20 km).

  • Tribal Museum, Araku – Showcasing tribal heritage and culture.

  • Coffee Plantations – Famous for organic Araku coffee.

Travel Tips

  • Wear comfortable trekking shoes for the trail.

  • Carry water and light snacks as facilities are limited near the falls.

  • Best to travel in groups for safety during the jeep ride and trek.

  • Mobile network connectivity may be weak.

FAQs on Katiki Waterfalls

Q1. Where is Katiki Waterfalls located?
Katiki Falls is located near Borra Caves in the Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh.

Q2. How far is Katiki Falls from Araku Valley?
It is about 20 km from Araku Valley and ~90 km from Visakhapatnam.

Q3. Is trekking required to reach Katiki Falls?
Yes, visitors need to take a jeep ride (3 km) followed by a short trek (~1 km) to reach the falls.

Q4. What is the entry fee for Katiki Falls?
There is no entry fee, but the jeep ride costs around ₹200–₹300 per person.

Q5. Which is the best time to visit Katiki Waterfalls?
The best time is during July–October (monsoon & post-monsoon) and November–February (winter).

Q6. What are the nearby attractions?
Nearby attractions include Borra Caves, Araku Valley, Tribal Museum, and Coffee Plantations.

Q7. Where can I stay near Katiki Waterfalls?
You can stay at resorts and hotels in Araku Valley, including Maryland Resorts, Tyda Jungle Bells, Haritha Hill Resort, and homestays.  

Conclusion

The Katiki Waterfalls is one of the most scenic and adventurous attractions near Araku Valley and Borra Caves. With its refreshing waters, surrounding greenery, and thrilling access trail, Katiki is perfect for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. A trip here, combined with Borra Caves and Araku Valley, makes for an unforgettable travel experience in Andhra Pradesh.

Visit Kothapalli Waterfalls


 

 


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