Jungle Bells Nature Camp

Head to the Jungle Bells Nature Camp en route Araku Valley if your idea of a perfect holiday is staying in the lap of nature. Hidden amidst densely forested hills of the Eastern Ghats, the popular resort is situated in Tyda and was established by Andhra Pradesh Tourism. Visitors can indulge in birdwatching, hiking and trekking or spend a quiet day amidst natural surroundings. Take a refreshing dive in the swimming pool or burn some calories at the gymnasium or pamper yourself with a therapeutic massage at the spa, there are multiple options. The multi-cuisine restaurant at the nature camp offers a variety of scrumptious delicacies. Special arrangements are also made by the staff for organising campfire nights where you can have a memorable time with your friends and family and entertain yourself with amazing dhimsa dance performances.

Jungle Bells Nature Camp

Rishikonda Beach

One of the finest beaches in Visakhapatnam, Rishikonda is skirted by azure blue waters lapping at the carpet of golden sands. Spanning along the coast of the Bay of Bengal, the beach invites tourists from around the region. Set amidst verdant hills of the Eastern Ghats, it provides a truly blissful experience to visitors. Its vast stretch of water makes it an ideal place to indulge in various sports like swimming, water skiing and windsurfing. The tourism department of Andhra Pradesh has also constructed cottages around the beach along with restaurants and other useful amenities that make Rishikonda a great stop for tourists. Taking a peaceful stroll on the beach as the cool breeze caresses you, makes for a truly rejuvenating experience. Tourists can also opt for enjoyable pony rides on the beach during the early morning and evening hours.

Rishikonda Beach

Ramakrishna Beach

Possibly Visakhapatnam's most popular spot, the beautiful Ramakrishna Beach gets its name from the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, which is situated near the beach. Popularly known as the RK beach, it attracts locals and tourists alike. Visit the beach to witness ethereal views of sunsets amidst its bustling yet calming environment. Popular tourist activities one can indulge in include swimming, sunbathing, surfing and playing beach volleyball. Tourists can enjoy a bumpy camel ride on the beach, opt for a boat ride in a traditional fishing boat or even take a cruise in the water. Other nearby attractions include Kali Temple, INS Kurusura Submarine Museum, TU-142M Aircraft Museum and Visakha Museum. The serene beach is sure to lift your spirits with its picturesque views and fun-filled environment.

Ramakrishna Beach

Lawson's Bay Beach

One of the many beaches of Visakhapatnam, Lawson's Bay Beach, also referred to as Pedawaltair Beach, is the perfect place to unwind in the arms of nature. The quiet, serene and undisturbed beach lies on the way from the Ramakrishna Beach to the Kailasagiri Hills. The crystal clear water of the majestic sea makes it the perfect spot for surfing, swimming and sunbathing. The picturesque location of the beach will leave you totally rejuvenated. Tourists can also visit the newly opened Lawson's Bay Beachfront Park, which makes for a great picnic spot. Built with an aim to ease congestion at the Ramakrishna Beach, the park is lined with beautiful walkways and lush green trees. After spending quality time at the beach, tourists can head to the nearby Lawson Bay Colony, one of the most beautiful residential areas of Visakhapatnam and stroll through its verdant streets.

Lawson's Bay Beach

Anantagiri

A popular hill station of Andhra Pradesh, Anantagiri lies between Visakhapatnam and Araku Valley and makes for a great weekend getaway. Dotted with endless acres of picturesque coffee plantations, the hill station once served as the summer retreat of the erstwhile rulers of the region. Anantagiri is also known for its numerous waterfalls, fruit orchards, eye-catching ravines and beautiful gorges set amidst hillocks. The most popular among all is Chaparai Waterfalls, also known as Dumbriguda Falls. Borra Caves, one of the largest in the country, lie nearby and one can witness million-year-old stalactite and stalagmite formations in the caves. Visitors can also visit the Padmapuram Botanical Gardens. A visit to the sacred lake of Bhavanasi makes for a delightful experience. The hill station is blessed with rich fauna and flora, including medicinal herbs. Anantagiri lies at a distance of 87 km from Visakhapatnam and should not be missed.

Anantagiri

Bheemunipatnam Beach

More famous as Bhimili, Bheemunipatnam Beach is one of the longest in the country and stretches for about 25 km. Despite its popularity, the beach is quiet and serene and known for a Dutch fort and a cemetery. Located on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam, the beach is one of the most exotic attractions of Andhra Pradesh and draws tourists from all corners of the country. Surrounded by lush coconut plantations, the beach offers a calm and serene environment. It is also known for displaying a large Buddha sculpture along with smaller sculptures where he can be seen sharing his teachings with his disciples. The Bheemunipatnam Beach lies at a distance of 24 km from Visakhapatnam and makes for a great one day excursion. The drive to the beach from the city is just as charming.

Bheemunipatnam Beach

Indira Gandhi Zoological Gardens

Spread over 625 acre, Indira Gandhi Zoological Gardens is situated amid Kambalakonda Reserve Forest where visitors can spot up to 80 species of animals. Located on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam, it is the third-largest zoo in the country and also has a biosphere learning centre and a library. Some of the common sightings here include tigers, pumas, panthers, lions, jaguars, rhesus monkeys, jackals, hyenas, wolves, elephants, spotted deer, sambar, ratels and baboons. The park also houses a number of reptiles like pythons, lizards and snakes. Painted storks, pied hornbills, peacocks and ducks are some of the birds you can come across at the park. It also houses a separate section for butterflies and moths. The walls of this section are decorated with pictures and information about these beautiful creatures. Tourists can also take a mini train ride inside the park and explore the entire area.

Indira Gandhi Zoological Gardens

Dolphin's Nose

One of the most gorgeous attractions of Visakhapatnam, Dolphin’s Nose is a natural wonder. Clearly visible from almost all parts of the city, the hill gets its name from its distinctive shape, which resembles the nose of a dolphin. It is one of the most sought after tourist spots in the city and is also known as Yarada Konda. A fishing village by the same name is located near the hills and makes for an interesting exploration. The lighthouse situated on Dolphin's Nose dates back to mid 1960s and offers great views of the sea. It is visible from 64 km away in the sea. Dolphin Hill falls under the Indian Naval Base and there are a few restricted areas on the hill but tourists have access to most picturesque spots.

Dolphin's Nose

Kailasagiri

Perched on a hilltop at a height of 304 m, the well-maintained Kailasagiri Park is a prime attraction of Visakhapatnam and makes for a great picnic spot. Sprawling over an area of 380 acre, the park offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and the city. The park is noted for housing a 40-ft-high statue of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati that has become a popular symbol of the city. Even though the park can be accessed via road, the best way to reach here is taking a ropeway ride and enjoying the breathtaking views of the city on the way. For kids, the park offers an exciting toy train ride, which gives a circular tour of the site. Other popular attractions in the park include Floral clock, Titanic Viewpoint, Shanthi Ashram and amazing jungle trails. There is also a dedicated play area for children where they can enjoy horse riding and other activities. Kailasagiri has also emerged as a haven for paragliding enthusiasts and offers amazing facilities for tourists.

Kailasagiri

Araku Valley

Nestled in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, the stunning Araku Valley is one of the most beautiful tourist stopovers near Visakhapatnam. Bordered by towering mountains and lush forests, the valley makes for an ideal spot to relax and nourish your soul. Located at a height of 2,990 ft, the mountain ranges of the Eastern Ghats make for a great escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The most popular attraction in the valley is Chaparai Waterfall, also known as Dumbriguda Falls. It is situated at a distance of 5 km from the valley and serves as a popular picnic spot. Tourists visiting the valley can also visit Araku Tribal Museum, which gives a detailed insight into the lives of the people of Araku Valley by taking you through their rich history.

Araku Valley