Andhra Pradesh, a state rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, beckons travellers with its blend of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and serene landscapes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking to immerse in local cultures, Andhra Pradesh offers a unique experience. I have created this 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary to help you explore the essence of this beautiful state, ensuring a mix of adventure, spirituality, and relaxation.
I have framed this itinerary in such a way that you can start your exploration in Vishakapatnam, a port city and an important industrial centre in AP. So, make sure to reach this city from wherever you are travelling. Here is my 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary:
My 7-day Andhra Pradesh Itinerary
What is the Best Time To Explore Andhra Pradesh?
The best time to explore Andhra Pradesh is typically during the winter months from October to February. During this period, the weather is cooler and more comfortable for travelling and sightseeing, compared to the hot and humid conditions prevalent during the summer. The cooler climate makes it ideal for visiting various attractions, participating in outdoor activities, and attending local festivals.
Andhra Pradesh also celebrates several vibrant festivals during these months, such as Sankranti in January and the Lumbini Festival, which are great opportunities to experience local culture and traditions. Additionally, visiting during the winter allows you to comfortably explore natural beauties like the Araku Valley and the beaches along the Bay of Bengal.
Here is my 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary:
My 10-day Andhra Pradesh Itinerary
Day 1 and 2: Vizag and Araku Valley
Day 1: Arrival in Visakhapatnam
After arriving at Vizag, you can check in to your accommodations. The coastal city has many options to meet your budget. Vizag is one of the best 50 places to visit near Chennai as well.
Where To Stay in Vizag?
Ramakrishna Beach in Visakhapatnam (Vizag) offers several excellent accommodation options that cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. For those looking for luxury, Park Visakhapatnam offers beachfront views with modern amenities and traditional elegance. Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach boasts contemporary rooms with panoramic views of the bay. Budget-conscious travellers can consider the Ginger Vizag, which provides comfortable and economical lodging. Additionally, Green Park Hotel offers a balance of comfort and affordability with easy access to the beach and local attractions. Each of these hotels ensures a pleasant stay with their unique features and hospitable services.
If you have a free breakfast option or if a restaurant is attached to your hotel, you can finish your breakfast before heading to Ramakrishna Beach. Otherwise, you can find some restaurants near the beach as well. Here are a few options:
- The Square at Novotel – Located in the Novotel Hotel, this restaurant offers a buffet and à la carte dining with a variety of international and Indian dishes. It’s known for its stylish setting and sea views.
- Ming Garden – Situated in The Gateway Hotel, this is a go-to place for Chinese cuisine. It’s known for its authentic flavours and elegant ambience.
- Infinity – This restaurant at The Park Visakhapatnam offers fine dining with an emphasis on seafood and panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.
- R&G – Rhythm & Grills – Also located in The Park, this place is perfect for barbecue enthusiasts who enjoy grilled specialities in an open-air setting.
- Sea Inn – A more casual option, Sea Inn provides tasty local seafood and other regional dishes at a reasonable price, with a view of the beach.
After breakfast, you can spend quality time on the beach with your family. Also, you can finish off your lunch at one of the restaurants above.
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Afternoon: Submarine Museum
Post lunch, visit the INS Kurusura Submarine Museum, a must-see attraction where you can explore a decommissioned submarine. It is open until 8.30 pm. So, you can spend your time at this place before you head to a restaurant for dinner.
Evening: Dinner and Local Markets
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Andhra cuisine known for its bold flavours and spiciness. Get back to your accommodation for a restful sleep.
Day 2: Araku Valley
Early Morning: Journey to Araku Valley
Set off early for Araku Valley, a hill station known for its coffee plantations, about a 3–4-hour drive from Vizag. The journey itself, with tunnels, bridges, and lush landscapes, is an experience. From Vizag, Araku Valley is located at around 113 km. It is better to have around 5 hours as you might stop for breakfast and take pictures en route. So, start as early as possible.
Afternoon: Coffee Plantations and Tribal Museum
Visit a coffee plantation to learn about coffee processing and taste coffee. After lunch, explore the Tribal Museum, which showcases the culture and traditions of the indigenous tribes of the region. For lunch, you can choose one of the many best restaurants in Araku Valley. Examples include Hill Shine Garden Restaurant, Hotel Star Annapurna Multi Cuisine and Royal Darbar Restaurants. These restaurants are rated well by visitors. During my trip, I chose to have my lunch at Star Annapurna Multi Cuisine Restaurant. I should say about Captain Sunil at this restaurant. His service was extremely satisfactory for us.
Evening: Return to Vizag
Return to Vizag by evening. Spend time dining at a local restaurant of your choice. I would like to share a few options available in Vizag here:
- Venkatadri Vantillu
- Bamboo Bay at The Park
- Flying Spaghetti Monster
During this 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary, let us dedicate our third day to Rajahmundry exploration. It is located around 191 km away from Vizag. When you take the Chennai to Srikakulam Highway, you can reach Rajahmundry around 3 hours and 50 minutes. When the travel time is around 4 hours, reaching Rajahmundry might take even 5 or 6 hours. So, you can dedicate the third day of your 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary to travelling and checking into your accommodation in Rajahmundry. With this, you can relieve your travelling stress and prepare for the next day’s exploration at Rajahmundry.
You may find my post on 9-day Telangana itinerary helpful. If you plan for a Rajasthan trip, my post on 8-day Rajasthan itinerary might help you.
Day 3 & 4 Spend at Rajahmundry
Day 3: Travel to Rajahmundry
You will spend most of your time travelling from Vizag to Rajahmundry on the third day of your 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary. Before starting to Rajahmundry, you can finish your breakfast at Vizag. Then, you can start your trip. On your way to Rajahmundry, you can also finish your lunch before you check into your accommodation.
Where to Stay in Rajahmundry?
Rajahmundry is known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to the scenic Godavari River. Here, several accommodation options cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:
- La Hospin Hotel & Resort – This hotel offers a luxurious stay with modern amenities such as a rooftop pool and a variety of dining options, making it perfect for those looking for comfort and convenience.
- River Bay Resort – Ideal for nature lovers, this resort is located near the river and provides a peaceful retreat with facilities like a spa and outdoor activities, ensuring a relaxing experience.
- Hotel Anand Regency – A favoured choice for both tourists and business travellers, this hotel features spacious rooms, and several dining options, and is centrally located for easy access to local sights.
- Hotel Shelton Rajahmundry – Known for its excellent service and value for money, this hotel offers well-equipped rooms, a fitness centre, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
These accommodations offer a range of amenities and are well-suited for travellers seeking either leisure or business accommodations in Rajahmundry.
Choose one of these places to stay in Rajahmundry. You are sure to get an unforgettable staying experience. After checking in, relax for a few hours and if time permits you can spend the evening exploring local places in Rajahmundry.
Evening: Local Exploration
Explore the local markets of Rajahmundry, famous for traditional fabrics and weaves. Enjoy a tranquil evening on the banks of the Godavari River. Let the third night of this 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary be spent peacefully in Rajahmundry also called Rajamahendravaram.
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Day 4: Places to Explore in Rajahmundry
Where to Eat in Rajahmundry?
Indeed, you might have found the best dining option in Rajahmundry for your dinner on the third day. However, if you are thinking about the best restaurants in Rajahmundry, here are a few options available:
Rajahmundry offers a delightful variety of dining options that cater to different tastes, including traditional Andhra cuisine, North Indian dishes, and international flavours. Here are some of the best restaurants in Rajahmundry:
- DFC Dine Fresh Chicken – Popular among locals, this restaurant is known for its flavourful chicken dishes and quick service, providing a casual dining experience.
- Rose Milk India – Famous for its unique rose-flavoured milk, this spot also serves a variety of snacks and beverages that are perfect for a quick bite.
- River Bay Restaurant – Located in River Bay Resort, this restaurant offers scenic views of the Godavari River along with a diverse menu that includes both local and international cuisine.
- Hotel Anand Regency – The hotel’s restaurant is well-regarded for its buffet spreads that feature a wide array of dishes, from traditional Andhra meals to continental cuisine.
- Sri Shirdi Sai Restaurant – A favourite for vegetarian dining, offering a range of North and South Indian dishes in a simple and inviting atmosphere.
These restaurants not only provide delicious meals but also reflect the rich culinary heritage of Rajahmundry, making them great choices for visitors looking to explore local flavours.
Morning: Godavari River Cruise
After breakfast, take a Godavari River cruise. The river, known as the Ganges of the South, offers breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats. You can spend some quality time with your family here before you head to Dowleswaram Barrage in the evening.
Evening: Dowleswaram Barrage
Visit the Dowleswaram Barrage, an engineering marvel at the lower stretch of the Godavari River. The surrounding area is ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.
After finishing the day’s exploration, finish your dinner in one of the restaurants mentioned above and get back to your accommodation for a restful night’s sleep. Let us dedicate the fifth and sixth day of your 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary to explore Vijayawada.
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Day 5 & 6: Trip to Vijayawada and Exploration
Day 5: Journey to Vijayawada
Start the day 5 of your 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary with your breakfast at Rajahmundry. The drive to Vijayawada might take around 4-5 hours. The distance is around 160 km.
Where to Stay in Vijayawada?
Vijayawada, a vibrant city in Andhra Pradesh, offers a range of accommodations suitable for various tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:
- The Gateway Hotel MG Road – A top choice for travellers seeking luxury, this hotel offers spacious, well-appointed rooms, excellent dining options, and a prime location near the city’s main attractions.
- Novotel Vijayawada Varun – Featuring a modern design and all the amenities expected from an international hotel chain, Novotel provides comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travellers.
- Quality Hotel DV Manor – Known for its reliable service and comfortable rooms, this hotel also features multiple dining venues and is centrally located, making it easy to explore the city.
- Fortune Murali Park – Part of the ITC group, this hotel offers a blend of luxury and traditional hospitality, with facilities that cater to both families and business visitors.
- Hotel Aira – A more budget-friendly option, Hotel Aira provides clean, modern rooms at an affordable price, without sacrificing comfort or location.
These accommodations in Vijayawada are known for their hospitality and provide a pleasant stay, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the best of the city.
If you have booked one of the accommodations or any other accommodations in Vijayawada, you can check in and finish your lunch in one of the best restaurants in Vijayawada. Here are restaurant choices in the city:
Where to Dine in Vijayawada?
Vijayawada offers a rich dining scene with a blend of traditional Andhra flavours and international cuisine. Here are some top dining spots in the city:
- Babai Hotel – Famous for its traditional Andhra meals and iconic idli dipped in ghee and chutney, this is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic local cuisine.
- Minerva Grand Restaurant – Part of the Minerva Grand Hotel, this restaurant serves a mix of South Indian, North Indian, and Chinese dishes in a comfortable setting.
- Barbeque Pride – A great spot for buffet-style dining, offering a vast selection of grilled meats and vegetarian options, along with various cuisines.
- Sweet Magic – Known for its sweets and savouries, Sweet Magic also offers a good range of multi-cuisine dishes, making it a favourite for families.
- Crossroads Restaurant – Located in Quality Hotel DV Manor, this restaurant provides a fine dining experience with a variety of Indian and international dishes.
These restaurants offer a taste of Vijayawada’s diverse culinary landscape, from local delicacies to global flavours, ensuring a delightful meal for any visitor.
After finishing your lunch, you can reach your accommodation to relieve your travelling stress for a few hours.
Evening: Explore Local Cuisine
Spend your evening savouring local delicacies. Vijayawada is known for its street food, including varieties of dosas and biryanis. Even, let us dedicate day 6 to Vijayawada exploration.
Day 6: Vijayawada Exploration:
Start your day with a refreshing coffee or tea. Most accommodations will have a room service to help you get your coffee delivered to your room.
Morning: Visit to Kanaka Durga Temple:
Start with a visit to the Kanaka Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, located on the Indrakeeladri Hill. After the darshan, you can finish your breakfast near the temple.
Best Restaurants Near Kanaka Durga Temple
Kanaka Durga Temple in Vijayawada is a prominent pilgrimage site, and there are several excellent restaurants nearby that cater to the tastes of visitors and locals alike. Here are some of the best restaurants close to the temple:
- Southern Spice – This restaurant is known for its authentic South Indian cuisine, serving a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the local flavours of Andhra Pradesh. It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty meal after visiting the temple.
- Sweet Magic – A favourite among locals, Sweet Magic offers a wide range of dishes, from traditional sweets and snacks to full meals, making it perfect for families.
- Rasoie – This restaurant provides a comfortable dining experience with a menu that includes North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese options, catering to diverse palates.
- Aromas@5 – Located in Hotel Continental Park, this restaurant serves a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine in a modern and welcoming setting.
- Babai Hotel – Although primarily famous for its breakfast offerings like the iconic ghee-soaked idlis, Babai Hotel also provides delicious lunch options that are deeply rooted in Andhra culinary traditions.
These restaurants offer a delightful mix of local and international cuisines, providing ample dining choices for visitors to Kanaka Durga Temple.
After breakfast, you can get back to your accommodations and take some rest. After an hour or two you can go to Prakasam Barrage and Bhavani Island on this 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary.
Afternoon: Prakasam Barrage and Bhavani Island
You can finish your lunch at one of the restaurants mentioned above in Vijayawada. After lunch, visit the Prakasam Barrage, offering picturesque views of the Krishna River. Next, head to Bhavani Island, situated in the Krishna River, for some leisure time and water sports.
After this, get back to your accommodation and spend your time taking a rest. After this, you can finish your dinner in one of the restaurants near your accommodation.
Day 7 & 8: Amaravathi, Undavalli Caves and Trip to Tirupati
Day 7: Amaravathi and Undavalli Caves
Morning: Amaravathi
Drive to Amaravathi, home to the Amaralingeswara Temple and the Amaravathi Museum. The museum houses a collection of Buddhist sculptures and artefacts, highlighting the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. You can finish your breakfast in the middle of these explorations. You can find many quality restaurants near these popular attractions in Amaravathi.
Afternoon: Undavalli Caves
Next, visit the Undavalli Caves, a fine example of Indian rock-cut architecture. These caves, carved out of solid sandstone on a hillside, date back to the 4th to 5th centuries. Make sure to finish your lunch near this attraction before you return to your Vijayawada accommodation.
Evening: Return to Vijayawada
Return to Vijayawada for the night. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the riverfront, reflecting on the day’s explorations. If you have booked accommodation overlooking the river, you can spend this night in your accommodation too.
Day 8: Travel to Tirupati
As I am here to share a 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary, I feel that you should not miss out on a visit to the sanctum of the richest lord in India. Yes, I am talking about the Tirumala visit. Indeed, to get the darshan of the lord you should first reach Tirupati.
To reach Tirupati, you will have to travel around 414 km from Vijayawada. It will take around 7 hours. If not by road, you can also choose a train journey from Vijayawada to Tirupati. A train trip will take around 4 and a half to 5 and half hours based on the train you choose. Make sure to book your train tickets in advance to avoid last minute rush.
If you cannot book tickets on trains that reach Tirupati, you can book tickets on trains that reach Renigunta. From thereon, you can take local buses to reach Tirupati. Otherwise, you can also hire taxis from Renigunta to reach Tirupati. We will dedicate this day entirely to travelling from Vijayawada to Tirupati. After reaching Tirupati, you can travel to Tirumala.
If you have travelled by car from Vijayawada to Tirupati, you can extend your trip to Tirumala on your vehicle. Otherwise, if you have travelled by train, you can hire a taxi to reach Tirumala from Tirupati. Spend your 8th night at Tirumala.
Where To Stay in Tirumala?
You can stay in one of the accommodations offered by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). However, remember that you can book this accommodation three months before your stay if you do it through the TTD App or Website. Similarly, you can book your darshan three months in advance. So, plan your darshan and accommodation accordingly. Otherwise, you can also find private accommodations in Tirumala, which will cost you more compared to the accommodations that TTD offers.
Day 9 and 10: Tirupati Exploration
Day 9: Darshan at Tirumala
If you have booked your darshan tickets in advance, you will have to report the time mentioned in your ticket. Accordingly, reach the reporting spot on this day on the slot mentioned in your ticket. You can book special entry darshan tickets via the TTD app or website three months before your visit. This will cost you Rs.300 per person. Based on the rush, the darshan time will vary. However, for Special Entry Darshan tickets, mostly, the darshan will happen within not more than 2 hours.
Where to Eat in Tirumala?
If you have booked your darshan in the morning, you will probably complete your darshan before lunchtime. So, you will look for the best restaurants in Tirumala. Dining options in Tirumala are predominantly centred around traditional vegetarian cuisine, given the religious significance of the area. Most restaurants and eating facilities are run by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and cater primarily to the devotees visiting the temple. Here are some of the prominent places to eat in Tirumala:
- TTD Free Meal Complex (Annaprasadam Complex) – This facility offers free meals to all visitors and is known for providing clean, hygienic, and nutritious food. The meals typically include rice, sambar, curry, and curd.
- TTD Paid Canteens – Located at various points around the temple area, these canteens serve a variety of South Indian vegetarian dishes at very reasonable prices. Popular items include tiffins like dosa, idli, vada, and meals for lunch and dinner.
- Hotel Mayura – Managed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, this restaurant offers a slightly wider menu compared to the TTD canteens, including North Indian dishes in addition to South Indian cuisine.
- Nitya Annadanam Canteen – Another popular spot for devotees, offering meals at subsidized rates. The food is simple, focusing on satvik (pure) ingredients without onions or garlic, adhering to the dietary restrictions of the temple.
- Private Eateries – There are also a few small private eateries around the temple area, though options are limited. These places offer snacks and quick bites ideal for pilgrims looking for a quick meal between temple visits.
Due to the sacred nature of Tirumala, all food served is vegetarian, and the focus is on providing wholesome, simple meals to support the spiritual atmosphere of the pilgrimage site.
Evening: Explore Tirupati
After your darshan at the temple, spend your evening exploring Tirupati. Visit the local markets to shop for prasad (sacred food offered to the deity) like laddu, and other souvenirs such as religious books, idols, and traditional attire. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying out the Andhra thali, a platter that offers a taste of the region’s culinary diversity.
Day 10: Darshan at Srikalahasti
On day 10 of your 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary, you can explore the places around Tirupati. Srikalahasti is one such place. Thereafter, you can prepare for your departure.
Morning: Visit Srikalahasti
On your last day, make a trip to Srikalahasti, about a 2-hour drive from Tirumala. This town is popular for the Srikalahasti Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a prominent temple for Lord Shiva in South India, known for its Vayu linga representing the element of wind. The temple’s construction and the intricate carvings on its walls and pillars are mesmerizing.
Afternoon: Leisure and Departure Preparations
After visiting Srikalahasti, return to your Tirumala accommodation for some leisure time. You can relax at your hotel or explore any local areas you may have missed earlier. This is also a good time to pack and prepare for your departure.
Evening: Departure
Conclude your 10-day Andhra Pradesh journey with a heart full of memories. Depending on your travel arrangements, head to the Tirupati airport or railway station for your onward journey, carrying with you the essence of Andhra Pradesh’s rich culture, history, and spirituality.
Conclusion
This 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary just scratches the surface of what Andhra Pradesh has to offer, but it promises a blend of experiences from serene landscapes and spiritual journeys to culinary delights and historical explorations. Andhra Pradesh awaits to offer you an unforgettable journey.
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