Start early from Vizag by car/taxi to avoid traffic and enjoy the cooler morning; the scenic ghat road up the Eastern Ghats has many viewpoints. Drive time to Araku via Borra ~3–4 hours depending on stops.
Stop for a fresh South Indian breakfast (idli/dosa/upma) and tea at a highway dhaba or a café before reaching the ghat sections; this keeps you fueled for the morning visits.
Explore the famous limestone caves with impressive stalactites and stalagmites — a geological highlight and excellent for photography; typically open ~9:00am–5:00pm (confirm locally).
Short drive/trek to a seasonal but dramatic waterfall near Borra; enjoy the forested surroundings and photos. Avoid risky swims and check local guidance; access can vary by season.
Stop for a hearty Andhra thali or local fish/vegetarian curries at a reputable local eatery in Chintapalli/Araku en route; spicy, filling and regionally authentic.
Check into your chosen stay: options include AP Tourism Haritha Resort (reliable), boutique valley-view resorts (Hill Country, Araku Valley Resort) or a tribal homestay for cultural immersion. Book early in peak season.
Visit the Tribal Museum to learn about local tribal art, costumes and history — an informative introduction to the valley’s indigenous cultures; usually open ~10:00am–5:00pm.
Enjoy your resort’s views, try a cup of fresh Araku coffee at a café, or stroll the small local market for handicrafts. This is a good time to book any homestay cultural program for Night 2 if desired.
Have dinner at your resort or book a homestay meal featuring Andhra/tribal dishes such as local vegetable curries, rice dishes and Araku coffee-based desserts. Homestay meals are often home-cooked and more authentic.
Recommended stays: AP Tourism Haritha Resort (good facilities), Valley-view boutique resorts, or a tribal homestay for cultural experience; book in advance (especially Oct–Feb).
Visit a nearby coffee estate to see cultivation, cherry picking and processing; participate in a tasting session to understand Araku coffee’s profiles and buy fresh beans. Morning tours are best — typically 1–2 hours and bookable through cooperatives or your hotel.
Explore terraced botanical gardens with treehouses, a rope-walk and floral displays — great for leisurely photography and family-friendly fun; usually open ~9:00am–5:00pm, with small extra charges for some attractions.
Have lunch at a garden café or local restaurant; try millets or local-style biryani and vegetable curries — many outlets also serve Araku coffee desserts and snacks.
Short drive and easy trek to Chaparai waterfalls set in lush forest — a peaceful spot for photos, light trekking and restful time by water. Water flow is seasonal; avoid during heavy rains and follow local safety advice.
Drive to Galikonda viewpoint for panoramic views across the valley and sunset photography — arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset for best light and easy walking. Road access requires a short walk from parking.
Book a tribal cultural program & dinner through a homestay or resort to see traditional dance and music while enjoying local cuisine; reserve in advance to ensure availability.
Remain at the same valley resort or switch to a homestay to experience tribal hospitality and meals; many travelers prefer a homestay this night for culture.
Depart pre-dawn for Lambasingi, the coldest inhabited place in Andhra Pradesh known for misty sunrises and terraced farms; good for sunrise photos and cool-climate plantation walks. Drive time ~1–1.5 hours from Araku.
Walk among coffee and vegetable plots, meet local farmers and taste freshly brewed estate coffee or farm produce; mornings are crisp and ideal for photos and conversation with growers.
Enjoy a farm-style breakfast at a homestay or a small café, often featuring fresh eggs, local vegetables and hot coffee; homestays can prepare packed lunches for a day’s trekking if requested.
Short drive into forested areas toward Vanajangi — the waterfall and surrounding trails are quieter and less commercialized, ideal for a nature trek and picnic. Trail difficulty is moderate; wear good shoes.
Trek to Vanajangi falls, relax by the pool and enjoy a prepared picnic; this is a peaceful, natural spot for photos and birdwatching. Check local conditions before trekking (slippery in monsoon).
Have a packed lunch from your homestay or a roadside meal with local staples like rice, sambar, vegetable curry and fresh fruit — comfortable picnic dining is common near waterfalls.
Head back to Araku for last-minute souvenir shopping (Araku coffee, tribal crafts), then continue the drive down to Visakhapatnam; allocate 3–4 hours for the return depending on stops.
If you reach Vizag in the evening, enjoy coastal Andhra seafood or a final Andhra thali at a popular restaurant; otherwise stop en route for a comfortable meal before concluding the trip.
If returning to Vizag, choose a seaside hotel or guesthouse for the night; or extend your stay in Araku if you prefer a slower return. Plan next-day travel accordingly.