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Best time to visit Araku Valley

Discussion in 'Andhra Pradesh' started by Das, May 11, 2017.

  1. Das

    Das New Member

    Araku Valley is a destination which our family wants to visit. We hear of people visiting the place in summers and winters and are now confused to when the best time to visit Araku Valley is.
    I'm am sure both seasons have their plus points, but unfortunately, we can only go on one season, so please do suggest the best time to visit.

    I would also like to know at what time of the year we can see the full greenery?
     


  2. briannagodess

    briannagodess Well-Known Member

    Hello, @Das, welcome to the forum!

    best-time-to-visit-araku-valley.jpg
    (Images from Sunny, Jagannath and Le Voyageur)

    Overview

    About 114 kilometres away from Visakhapatnam is the Araku Valley, a hill station in the state situated at about 910 metres above sea level. Araku Valley is sometimes referred to as the Ooty of Andhra Pradesh, owing to the similarities of the two when it comes to scenic beauty. Both have the same coffee plantations, lush greenery and even the enjoyable train ride to reach it which passes through many tunnels plus bridges. Araku Valley is just a small hill station and even a day would be sufficient enough to explore all its attractions. Its proximity to the city makes it a preferred weekend getaway for many locals of Visakhapatnam and even locals of further cities like Hyderabad. Now comes this guide which would help you understand when is the best time to visit this lovely hill station of the south.

    Best Time to Visit Araku Valley

    Generally, we can divide the seasons of Araku Valley into three, namely: summer, monsoon and winter. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages but of course, there's one that truly stands out as the best time to visit the hill station. Below are the descriptions of each season, the average temperatures plus the pros and cons to visiting during that time.

    1. Summer Season (March to May)

    summer-in-araku-valley.jpg
    (Images from Sarabjeet, Bhaskaranaidu and Academic)

    The summer season extends from March to May. This is the hottest season in Araku Valley and because the elevation of the hill station isn't as high, temperatures can reach beyond 30°C. In the month of March, temperatures are around 33°C to 36°C during day time. Temperatures during night time are slightly cooler. In the month of April, temperatures can go as high as 40°C which makes it the hottest month of the year. May temperatures average around 38°C though by the end of the month, temperatures can go lower. Sporadic rainfalls might also occur by the end of the month.

    Summer is the mid-peak tourist season of Araku Valley. Usually, those from the cities who are seeking a bit of respite in the laps of nature go to the hill station during this time. Crowds are not as many and hotel rates are on the mid-range as well. But is this a good time to explore Araku Valley? For those who want to enjoy the cooler climate, this is not really an enjoyable time for that. Temperatures aren't as low and you might experience heat during day time. For sightseeing, it might prove to be not so enjoyable too, because the hill station won't be as green. The waterfalls nearby the hill station won't be full too.

    There are a few noteworthy places that you can visit during this time in the hill station. Like the Padmapuram Botanical Gardens, which would have some flowers in full bloom in summer. You can enjoy strolling in this garden either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. There are shaded areas, proper pathways and even a toy train that takes visitors around the gardens. You can also visit the Araku Valley Coffee House, which is an indoor museum showcasing the history of coffee growing around the world and in Araku itself. You can also enjoy viewing the process of coffee making here, as well as distinguish the various types of coffees.

    2. Monsoon Season (June to September)

    monsoon-in-araku-valley.jpg
    (Images from Imahesh, Shishir and Vinod)

    The monsoon season extends from June to September. Temperatures in June remain around 35°C or even lower. Rainfall is sporadic at the beginning of the month but by the end of it, it becomes more frequent. In July, temperatures go lower averaging around 27°C to 32°C. This is the wettest month of the year and rainfall can occur on a daily basis. By August, temperatures remain below 29°C and rainfall lessens as the month reaches its end. September is the last month of the monsoon. Temperatures remain roughly the same and rainfall still occurs but on a lesser rate.

    Monsoon can be considered as the off-peak tourist season of Araku Valley. Usually, it's the lone travellers seeking some solace that visit the hill station during this time. Crowds are very sparse and you can truly enjoy the serenity of the hill station. Rates for hotels and resorts are on the lower side too. For those who love nature, Araku Valley is covered in verdant greenery during this time. However, a trip during this time might be quite adventurous and challenging, due to the spontaneous and frequent rainfalls. Be prepared to have your itinerary changed and delayed due to the rains. If you want to enjoy Araku Valley in its full glory, then this is the best time for that.

    The waterfalls of the hill station become alive during this time. Falling at a height of about 50 feet is the Katiki Waterfalls, a bit further from the city centre of Araku Valley. This is one of the highest waterfalls of the state and looks quite glorious in the monsoon, with the surrounding greenery and milky water. You need to trek for about 30 minutes on slippery paths to reach the main waterfall. About 15 kilometres away from the hill station is the Dumbriguda Waterfalls, which is very picturesque when it rains as the waters of the falls pass through huge rocks. The Chaparai Waterfalls is also a must-visit during this time, which is a small stream-like waterfall.

    3. Winter Season (October to February)

    winter-in-araku-valley.jpg
    (Images from Imahesh, Apy and Trip Advisor)

    The winter season extends from October to February. During October, temperatures usually remain around 27°C or even lower. Rainfall can still occur in some days of the beginning of the month through very short in duration. Temperatures during November and December climb down to the low 20°C. Night time temperatures can go lower than 10°C too. By the end of December, expect temperatures to get even lower. January is one of the coldest months where day time temperatures are around 15°C. Temperatures in February climb back up to 20°C but still very mild as compared to the other months.

    Winter can be considered as the peak tourist season of Araku Valley. Families, friends and couples flock to the region during this season because of the pleasant climates. As a downside, it's necessary to prebook your hotel prior to reaching Araku Valley during this time as they might be fully booked. Crowds are thickest at this time and though sightseeing is very much possible, you have to queue in some attractions at times. Hotel rates are on the higher side too but most establishments are open during this time. But if you want to be able to cover all the attractions of the hill station, this is the best season for that.

    The Borra Caves, located about 40 kilometres away from Araku Valley, is a must-visit during winter. These are natural caves with millions of years old stalactite and stalagmite formations. The formations here are fascinating, with animal shapes, Hindu deities and more that can truly spark your imagination. Then there's the Tribal Museum, a huge open-air museum that highlights the rich history and culture of the tribes of the state. It's also possible to visit the waterfalls mentioned above, especially post monsoon, on October, when they are still full of water and power. Generally, you can visit all the attractions of the hill station during this time just be prepared for the crowds.

    Conclusion

    The best time to visit Araku Valley is during the winter season, when temperatures are its lowest and you can enjoy the pleasant climate plus the misty views of the region. This is the peak tourist season of the hill station too, which means that tourists flock to this region most during winter. The summers can get hot in the hill station, though crowds are lesser. It is not an ideal time to visit because the beauty of Araku Valley isn't as distinct during this season. The monsoons lend their hand to make the hill station greener and more beautiful. This season is best for the offbeat travellers who want to bask in the beauty of the region without too many crowds at its attractions. But whichever season you choose, don't forget to sample the uniquely local dish of Bamboo Chicken, a truly healthy grilled chicken dish that would make you fall in love with the hill station more.

    I hope this helps you!:)