Southern Coast Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, hiking/biking routes, food, accommodations, and cultural customs of Southern Coast in Andhra Pradesh.


Introduction to Southern Coast

Southern Coast, located in Andhra Pradesh, Southern India, is a region of coastal beauty and cultural diversity. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking new experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Coast

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam
  • Dutch Cemetery in Bheemunipatnam
  • Borra Caves
  • Kailasagiri in Visakhapatnam
  • Rishikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam
  • Ramakrishna Beach in Visakhapatnam
  • Pavuralakonda Buddhist Excavations in Bheemunipatnam
  • Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex

Natural Attractions of Southern Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Araku Valley
  • Katiki Waterfalls
  • Yarada Beach in Visakhapatnam
  • Rushikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam
  • Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Dolphin’s Nose in Visakhapatnam
  • Tyda Nature Camp

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Coast

  • Lambasingi Hill Station trek
  • Katiki Waterfalls trek
  • Anantagiri Hills trek
  • Araku Valley to Bheemunipatnam cycling route
  • Kambalakonda Trail

Best Things to Do in Southern Coast: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing and Parasailing in Visakhapatnam
  • Visit to Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
  • Scuba Diving in Vizag
  • Tribal Museum in Araku Valley
  • Coffee Plantation Tour in Araku Valley
  • Boating at Rushikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam
  • Sunrise at Yarada Beach in Visakhapatnam

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Coast

Day Activities
1 Visit the Submarine Museum, Dutch Cemetery, and Borra Caves
2 Trek to Lambasingi Hill Station and enjoy the scenic views
3 Visit Kailasagiri and Rishikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam
4 Visit Araku Valley and its famous coffee plantations
5 Go boating at Rushikonda Beach and visit Dolphin’s Nose
6 Enjoy some outdoor fun with a cycling tour from Araku Valley to Bheemunipatnam
7 End the week with a relaxing day on Yarada Beach and a visit to Kondakarla Ava

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Coast

Must-Try Dishes

  • Biryani
  • Pesarattu
  • Gongura Pachadi
  • Natukodi Pulusu
  • Rayalseema Ruchulu
  • Mandi Biryani

Local Beverages

  • Filter Coffee
  • Borra Caves Coffee
  • Sugarcane Juice
  • Tender Coconut Water

Where to Stay in Southern Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach
  • The Park Visakhapatnam
  • Green Park Hotel in Visakhapatnam
  • Hotel Haritha Mayuri in Araku Valley
  • The Mayfair Hotel in Visakhapatnam
  • Jasmine Hills Villas and Spa in Araku Valley
  • Palm Beach Hotel and Resort in Visakhapatnam
  • Vihar Country Homes Resort in Visakhapatnam

What to Buy in Southern Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts made by local tribal communities
  • Araku Valley Coffee
  • Kondapalli Toys
  • Bobbili Veena
  • Dharmavaram Silk Sarees
  • Etikoppaka Toys
  • Uppada Silk Sarees

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Coast

The people of Southern Coast are known for their hospitality and friendly nature. The region’s cultural richness is reflected in its dance forms, music, and festivals such as Pongal, Makar Sankranti, Ugadi, and Diwali.

Best Time to Visit Southern Coast

The best time to visit Southern Coast is between November and February when the weather is pleasant and the region is bustling with cultural festivals and celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Coast

Do:

  • Dress appropriately while visiting temples and other religious places
  • Try local food and coffee
  • Use public transport for travel in crowded cities

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places
  • Harm or disturb the wildlife and environment
  • Litter on the beaches and other tourist spots

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Coast

Southern Coast is considered safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to avoid traveling alone at night in isolated areas and take precautions against pickpocketing and theft.

Health in Southern Coast

Tourists are advised to take precautions against malaria, dengue fever, and other mosquito-borne illnesses. It is recommended to drink bottled water and avoid eating street food to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Getting to Southern Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southern Coast

  • Visakhapatnam International Airport

Bus Stations Near Southern Coast

  • Visakhapatnam Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train

How to Get Around in Southern Coast

The best way to get around Southern Coast is to use public transport, such as buses and trains, or hire a car with a driver.

Where to Go Next from Southern Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kakinada
  • Rajahmundry
  • Puri
  • Gopalpur-on-Sea

Conclusion

Southern Coast boasts a combination of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality of its people. It is truly a destination that should be visited by every traveler.