Did you know that Andhra Pradesh is home to a hill station that is often called the “Kashmir of the South”? Lambasingi, with its unique frost and chilly weather, offers a rare experience in southern India.
In this blog, we’ll provide an in-depth guide to the hill stations in Andhra Pradesh. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventurous trip, this guide has you covered.
We’ll explore the major hill stations like Lambasingi, Araku Valley, Horsley Hills, and Ananthagiri Hills. You’ll learn about the nearby attractions, the best times to visit, and recommended hotels. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your perfect hill station vacation in Andhra Pradesh.
Best Hill Stations in Andhra Pradesh
Here are the best hill stations in Andhra Pradesh:
1. Araku Valley
Araku Valley is a scenic hill station nestled in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh. Known for its lush green valleys, coffee plantations, and waterfalls, it offers a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The valley is also home to the indigenous tribes and offers a glimpse into their rich culture and traditions.
Nearby Attractions
- Borra Caves
- Katiki Waterfalls
- Tribal Museum
- Padmapuram Gardens
- Coffee Plantations
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Araku Valley is from October to May.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam Airport, approximately 112 km away. You can take a bus or taxi to Araku Valley.
- By Rail: Araku has its own railway station, which is connected to Visakhapatnam and other major cities. The train journey is scenic and popular among tourists.
- By Road: Araku Valley is well-connected by road. It is about 115 km from Visakhapatnam, and you can drive or take a bus to reach there.
Hotel Recommendations
- Haritha Valley Resort
- Araku Haritha Mayuri Resort
- Ushodaya Resorts
2. Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills is a charming hill station in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Known for its panoramic views, lush greenery, and pleasant climate, Horsley Hills is a popular weekend getaway. The hill station is named after W.D. Horsley, a British officer who made it his summer residence.
Nearby Attractions
- Horsley Hill Zoo
- Whisper Wind Viewpoint
- Mallamma Temple
- Gali Bandalu (Wind Rocks)
- Rishi Valley School
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Horsley Hills is from November to March. The weather is cool and comfortable, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, around 160 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Horsley Hills.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Madanapalle Road Railway Station, about 26 km away. You can take a taxi or bus from the station to Horsley Hills.
- By Road: Horsley Hills is well-connected by road. It is approximately 144 km from Bangalore and 124 km from Tirupati. You can take a bus to reach hills.
Hotel Recommendations
- Haritha Hill Resort
- Horsley Hills Environmental Center
- Holiday Home Horsley Hills
3. Nallamala Hills
Nallamala Hills is a part of the Eastern Ghats and stretches across the state of Andhra Pradesh. Known for its dense forests, wildlife, and trekking trails, it is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The hills are also home to the famous Srisailam temple, attracting pilgrims from all over.
Nearby Attractions
- Srisailam Temple
- Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
- Akka Mahadevi Caves
- Mallela Theertham Waterfall
- Cumbum Lake
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nallamala Hills is from October to February. The weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the natural beauty.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, around 232 km from Srisailam, a key spot in the Nallamala Hills. You can take a taxi or bus to reach Nallamala Hills.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Markapur Road, approximately 85 km from Srisailam. From the station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the hills.
- By Road: Nallamala Hills are well-connected by road. Srisailam is about 213 km from Hyderabad and 180 km from Kurnool. You can take a bus to reach the hills.
Hotel Recommendations
- Haritha Srisailam Resort
- Pathaleshwara Sadan
- Ganga Sadan
4. Lambasingi
Lambasingi, often called the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh,” is a small village known for its cool climate and misty mornings. Located in the Visakhapatnam district, it is the only place in southern India where you can experience frost during winters. The scenic beauty, coffee plantations, and tranquil environment make it a perfect getaway.
Lambasingi is known for its cool climate and natural beauty. Visitors can explore nearby attractions like the serene Kothapally Waterfalls, the scenic Thajangi Reservoir, and the winding Ghat Road that offers stunning views. Bojjannakonda, an ancient Buddhist site, and the popular Annavaram Temple are also close by, providing a mix of natural and cultural experiences.
Nearby Attractions
- Kothapally Waterfalls
- Thajangi Reservoir
- Ghat Road
- Bojjannakonda
- Annavaram Temple
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lambasingi is from November to January when the weather is cold and you might even witness frost.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam Airport, approximately 100 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Lambasingi.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Anakapalle, around 75 km from Lambasingi. You can take a taxi or bus from the station.
- By Road: Lambasingi is well-connected by road. It is about 115 km from Visakhapatnam. You can drive or take a bus to reach hills.
Hotel Recommendations
- Haritha Hill Resort
- Lambasingi Hill View Resort
- Green Valley Hotel
5. Ananthagiri Hills
Ananthagiri Hills, located in the Vikarabad district, is known for its lush green forests, coffee plantations, and serene environment. It is a popular spot for trekking and camping, offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
Nearby Attractions
- Ananthagiri Temple
- Kotipally Reservoir
- Nagasamudram Lake
- Bhavanasi Lake
- Coffee Plantations
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ananthagiri Hills is from October to March.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, about 100 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Ananthagiri Hills.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Vikarabad Junction, approximately 10 km from Ananthagiri Hills. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to reach Ananthagiri Hills.
- By Road: Ananthagiri Hills is well-connected by road. It is about 90 km from Hyderabad. You can drive or take a bus to reach Ananthagiri Hills.
Hotel Recommendations
- Ananthagiri Hill Resort
- Deccan Trails
- Haritha Valley Resort
6. Nagari Hills
Nagari Hills, located in the Chittoor district, is famous for the Nagari Nose, a natural rock formation that resembles a human nose. The hills offer picturesque views and are a popular spot for trekking and rock climbing.
Nearby Attractions
- Nagari Nose
- Perumalla Eri Lake
- Vedanarayana Temple
- Kailasakona Waterfalls
- Tirupati
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nagari Hills is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, about 70 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nagari Hills.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Nagari, approximately 5 km from the hills. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from the station to reach Nagari Hills.
- By Road: Nagari Hills are well-connected by road. It is about 80 km from Chennai and 55 km from Tirupati. You can drive or take a bus to reach Nagari Hills.
Hotel Recommendations
- Haritha Hotel
- Nagari Hill View Resort
- Green Valley Lodge
7. Papikondalu
Papikondalu, also known as Papi Hills, is a series of mountain ranges along the Godavari River. Known for its breathtaking scenery, boat cruises, and lush greenery, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Nearby Attractions
- Perantalapalli Village
- Kolluru Bamboo Huts
- Papi Hills Boat Ride
- Bhadrachalam Temple
- Polavaram Project
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Papikondalu is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for boat cruises.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport, about 60 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Papikondalu.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rajahmundry, approximately 50 km from Papikondalu. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to reach Papikondalu.
- By Road: Papikondalu is well-connected by road. It is about 50 km from Rajahmundry. You can drive or take a bus to reach Papikondalu.
Hotel Recommendations
- Haritha Hill Resort
- Punnami Resort
- River Bay Resort
Conclusion
Exploring the hill stations of Andhra Pradesh offers a unique experience with each destination. Lambasingi, with its cool climate, Ananthagiri Hills with lush greenery, Nagari Hills with unique rock formations, and Papikondalu with stunning river views, all have something special to offer.
Nallamala Hills are perfect for nature lovers, Horsley Hills offer a peaceful retreat, and Araku Valley boasts beautiful landscapes and rich culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, these hill stations provide a perfect getaway from everyday life.
Plan your visit to enjoy the natural beauty and unique attractions of Andhra Pradesh’s hill stations.
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FAQs
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Which is the famous hill station in Andhra Pradesh?
Lambasingi is one of the most famous hill stations in Andhra Pradesh due to its cool climate and scenic beauty.
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Which is the coldest place in Andhra Pradesh?
Lambasingi is known as the coldest place in Andhra Pradesh, often referred to as the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh”.
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Which is the coolest place in Andhra Pradesh during summer?
Araku Valley is considered the coolest place during the summer months, providing a pleasant retreat from the heat.
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Which four is famous as a hill station?
The four famous hill stations in Andhra Pradesh are Lambasingi, Araku Valley, Horsley Hills, and Ananthagiri Hills.
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Does it really snow in Lambasingi?
While it doesn’t snow in the traditional sense, Lambasingi experiences frost and temperatures low enough to give a snowy appearance during winters.
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Why is Lambasingi famous?
Lambasingi is famous for its cold climate, picturesque landscapes, and the unique phenomenon of frost during winters, which is rare in southern India.
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