When you think of hill stations in South India, places like Ooty or Munnar often come to mind. But Andhra Pradesh — known for its coastal beauty and temple heritage — also hides a world of misty hills, coffee estates, and serene valleys waiting to be explored.
Here are 15 hidden and unexplored hill stations of Andhra Pradesh that promise peace, nature, and an authentic rural charm far from commercial tourism.
1. Lambasingi – The Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh
Often called “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh,” Lambasingi in the Eastern Ghats is famous for its chilly weather and misty mornings.
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Highlights: Strawberry farms, sunrise viewpoints, coffee plantations
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Best Time to Visit: October to February
2. Araku Valley – The Green Jewel of the Eastern Ghats
Nestled near Visakhapatnam, Araku Valley is a scenic hill retreat known for coffee gardens and tribal culture.
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Don’t Miss: Borra Caves, Tribal Museum, Katiki Waterfalls
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Stay: Eco-tourism cottages and tribal homestays
3. Maredumilli – The Forest Retreat
Located near Rajahmundry, Maredumilli is surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and bamboo huts.
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Top Spots: Jalatarangini Falls, Sokuleru Viewpoint, Amruthadhara Falls
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Experience: Forest cottages run by the local community
4. Ananthagiri Hills – The Weekend Escape from Vizag
Just 90 km from Visakhapatnam, Ananthagiri Hills is perfect for short treks, nature trails, and camping.
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Best For: Picnics, stargazing, nature walks
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Nearby: Tyda Jungle Bells Eco Resort
5. Chintapalle – Misty Village in the Araku Belt
A lesser-known gem near Araku, Chintapalle is surrounded by rolling hills and tribal villages.
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Highlights: Cloudy valleys, coffee farms, weekly tribal markets
Tip: Visit after monsoon for lush green landscapes
6. Paderu – The Hidden Coffee Paradise
One of the least explored hill towns in the Araku region, Paderu is rich in natural beauty and tribal heritage.
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Experience: Plantation walks, tribal art centers, and eco-villages
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Stay: Tribal homestays or forest lodges
7. Kothapalli Waterfalls Hill Area – Nature’s Untouched Haven
Near Araku, Kothapalli Waterfalls is not just a waterfall but a scenic highland surrounded by thick forests.
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Best For: Nature lovers, adventure photography, and camping
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Ideal Time: October–January
8. Horsley Hills – The Classic Hill Escape
Though moderately known, Horsley Hills in Chittoor district remains peaceful and clean.
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Famous For: Viewpoints, eucalyptus forests, and zoo park
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Nearby Attractions: Talakona Waterfalls, Kaundinya Sanctuary
9. Yerravaram – The Hidden Gem of Visakhapatnam
A peaceful offbeat destination near Narsipatnam, Yerravaram is ideal for quiet weekend getaways.
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Highlights: Hill viewpoints, forest walks, rural charm
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Stay: Local farmhouses and forest rest houses
10. Vanjangi Hills – The Sunrise Wonderland
Vanjangi has recently gained fame for its “cloud bed” sunrise views. Located near Paderu, this hilltop village offers an almost dreamlike landscape.
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Best Time: Early morning sunrise between 4–6 AM
Tip: Carry warm clothes; temperatures can drop below 10°C
11. Rajavommangi – Eastern Ghats’ Hidden Valley
Tucked in East Godavari, Rajavommangi is an unexplored paradise of greenery and waterfalls.
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Experience: Hill drives, photography, and local honey collection
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Nearest Town: Rampachodavaram
12. Agency Hills – The Tribal Highlands of Andhra
The Agency region of Visakhapatnam and East Godavari offers breathtaking hillscapes dotted with tribal villages.
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Best For: Cultural tourism, forest trails, and eco-stays
Highlight: Authentic tribal markets and organic coffee
13. Addateegala Hills – A Lush Forest Escape
Known for its wild orchids and river valleys, Addateegala is a hidden eco-tourism hub.
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Activities: Birdwatching, nature walks, local cuisine
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Nearby: Rampa Waterfalls
14. Gudisa Hills – The Offbeat Trekker’s Paradise
Located near Maredumilli, Gudisa Hilltop offers a stunning panoramic view of the Eastern Ghats.
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Famous For: Camping and off-road jeep trails
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Tip: Bring your own tents for overnight stays
15. Papikonda Hill Region – Where the Godavari Meets the Ghats
The Papikonda hills form a mesmerizing landscape where the Godavari River snakes through deep forested valleys.
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Attractions: Papikonda National Park, river cruises, and tribal villages
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Best Season: October to February
Eco-Tourism & Homestay Experiences
Many of these hidden hill stations — especially Maredumilli, Paderu, and Lambasingi — are part of Andhra Pradesh’s eco-tourism initiatives. Travelers can stay in AP Forest Department cottages, tribal-run homestays, or village eco-resorts.
These stays promote responsible tourism, support local livelihoods, and give visitors a glimpse into authentic Andhra tribal culture and mountain life.
Best Time to Explore the Hills of Andhra Pradesh
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October to February: Cool, pleasant, and misty weather
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March to May: Warm but ideal for high-altitude trekking
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Avoid: June–September (monsoon season)
Getting Around
Most of these hill stations are well-connected from Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, and Chittoor by road. Hiring a local jeep or bike offers flexibility to explore hidden trails and lesser-known viewpoints.
People Also Ask (PAA)
1. Which is the coldest hill station in Andhra Pradesh?
Lambasingi is the coldest hill station in Andhra Pradesh, often seeing near-zero temperatures in winter.
2. What are the best hill stations near Visakhapatnam?
Araku Valley, Lambasingi, Paderu, and Vanjangi are the best hill stations near Visakhapatnam.
3. Does Andhra Pradesh have hill stations like Ooty or Munnar?
Yes, the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh are dotted with several hill towns offering similar natural beauty but fewer crowds.
4. Are there eco-stays in these regions?
Yes, eco-friendly cottages and tribal homestays are available in Maredumilli, Paderu, and Araku.
Conclusion
From the misty slopes of Lambasingi to the coffee-scented valleys of Araku, Andhra Pradesh’s hidden hill stations are waiting to be discovered.
Perfect for those who love offbeat travel, photography, and local culture, these hill retreats offer peace, beauty, and authenticity — untouched by mass tourism.
If you’re planning your next mountain escape, skip the crowded spots — and let Andhra’s secret hill stations surprise you!
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