7. Araku Valley
Just over 110 kms from Vishakapatnam lies a civilisation that is untouched by modernity. The Araku Valley houses around 19 tribes in the heart of the forests; among spring falls and low misty clouds that will brush past you as a walk around its undulated pathways.
The place best serves those who appreciate the sanctity of nature. Itika Pongal, the hunting festival in April will have you witness tribal men go hunting with spears and bows & arrows; while the women welcome them back for an evening of dance (Dimsa or Mayur) and revelry. Government-run guest houses provide decent accommodation and facilitate visits to other local attractions like the Tribal Museum, the coffee plantations, the Parmapuram Gardens and the Borra Caves.