Off-Season Travel

Dark clouds roaring up the sky, colourful umbrellas everywhere, gentle breeze, and the smell of earth. As the monsoons make the weather cooler, long drives to far off places with your friends or family, sound much more promising. Sip a masala chai enroute, grab a plateful full of Pakodi while watching the raindrops and make the most of the weekend. Here we get you the list of places for getaways within Andhra Pradesh.

#1 HOPE ISLAND

If you thought that a holiday on an island meant planning a trip to the Andamans, then here’s good news. A small tadpole shape island situated off the coast of Kakinada, is much closer home. A relatively young island known to be formed in the 18th century, this picturesque destination offers an enchanting view of sandy shores and is home to a great variety of plants. You can just sit there and relax, build sand castles, play Frisbee, and go hiking as well. However, this one’s mostly about the ride to the island, more than the destination itself.

Tip: With few touristy facilities available, one may want to go prepared with food, water and tents, if they plan to camp here. However, it isn’t recommended for night stays.

Highlights: Keep a look out for Olive Ridley turtles, as the sandy shores and the adjacent Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, provide home for these beautiful creatures.

How to get there: It is suggested to take a bus or train to the Kakinada shores. APTDC operates boats to the island.

#2 ETHIPOTHALA FALLS

Situated in the Guntur district, this alluring waterfall is located on Chandravanka river, a tributary of the river Krishna. Surrounded by lush green forest, this is a much admired destination throughout the monsoons and winters. Water falls down the cliff from a height of 21m, and you can get to see crocodiles at the crocodile breeding center. However, this may not be a good destination for summer travelers, as the intensity of the water often reduces at the time. Also, be prepared that a dip in these waters isn’t allowed, as it is a popular crocodile breeding center.

Tip: If you’re visiting here, then you can also plan a trip to the nearby temples of Sri Dattatreya and Madhumati Devi.