5-Day Eastern India Road Trip: Visakhapatnam to Malkangiri via Araku Valley & Koraput with Budget-Friendly Options

Day 1: Visakhapatnam Sights

Visakhapatnam, India on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day

Enjoy a budget-friendly South Indian breakfast with dosas and filter coffee at this popular local chain.
INR150, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kailasagiri Park

Take in spectacular panoramic views of Visakhapatnam’s coast and hills at this affordable and accessible hill park (open 9am–9pm).
INR30, 2h

12:00pm

Tour INS Kursura Submarine Museum

Explore India's unique submarine museum showcasing naval history, open 9am–5pm. Budget entry makes it a great cultural experience.
INR40, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Sri Siva Ramakrishna Mess

Relish a traditional and affordable Andhra thali with flavorful curries and rice at this local favorite spot.
INR120, 1h

3:00pm

Walk along RK Beach

Relax with a free stroll on Ramakrishna Beach while enjoying the sea breeze and sunset views.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel New Bombay

Dine on budget-friendly North and South Indian dishes, famous for its casual ambiance and good vegetarian options.
INR250, 1h
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Day 2: Araku Valley Nature

Araku Valley, India on May 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel in Visakhapatnam

Begin early with a simple complimentary breakfast to fuel the drive ahead.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Araku Valley

Enjoy the scenic 3.5-hour drive through winding routes and coffee plantations of the Eastern Ghats.
Transport INR900, 3h30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Tribal Guesthouse

Have an authentic, budget-friendly tribal meal featuring local vegetables and rice served by tribal hosts.
INR200, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Borra Caves

Explore famous limestone caves with impressive formations (open 9am–5pm), a must-see natural wonder.
INR35, 1h30m

3:30pm

Walk Coffee Plantations

Take a free or low-cost guided walk around coffee plantations to learn about coffee cultivation from local farmers.
INR100, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at local eatery

Enjoy inexpensive tribal-influenced dishes or simple rice and lentils, soaking in the evening atmosphere.
INR150, 1h
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Day 3: Koraput Culture

Koraput, India on May 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Start your morning with a basic breakfast of local fruits and flatbreads included with lodging.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Koraput

Drive 3 hours west to Koraput, known for tribal art and scenic hills, along less crowded roads.
Transport INR800, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Koraput Thali House

Try a wallet-friendly millet thali with local seasonal vegetables and chutneys.
INR150, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Koraput Tribal Museum

Learn about tribal art, crafts, and lifestyle at this small but informative museum (open 10am–5pm).
INR15, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Jagannath Temple Area

Wander the serene temple grounds and nearby markets for handicrafts and local sweets.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at local dhaba

Sample inexpensive Oriya dishes with a homestyle feel at a local street eatery.
INR120, 1h
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Day 4: Malkangiri Journey

Malkangiri, India on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Simple local breakfast of rice and lentils to energize your day before traveling.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Malkangiri

Travel roughly 4 hours through scenic tribal landscapes heading south along forested routes.
Transport INR900, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at roadside eatery

Eat at a modest local spot with fresh, seasonal Odia-style meals at very affordable prices.
INR100, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Malkangiri Dam

Relax by the calm reservoir and scenic surrounding hills; perfect for photos and light walking.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Explore tribal village markets

Visit local markets to see tribal crafts and interact with friendly vendors selling handmade goods free of charge.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at guesthouse

Enjoy a hearty, low-cost meal prepared by your hosts featuring local produce and tribal recipes.
INR150, 1h
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Day 5: Return & Relax

Visakhapatnam, India on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Have a modest breakfast included with lodging before heading back to Visakhapatnam.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive back to Visakhapatnam

6-hour return drive through beautiful mountain and forest scenery, reflecting on your trip experiences.
Transport INR1100, 6h

2:30pm

Lunch at local cafe

Stop for an affordable meal with homemade snacks and light dishes popular among locals.
INR200, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit local markets

Browse affordable local markets for souvenirs such as Araku Valley coffee and tribal handicrafts.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel South Park

Finish your trip with affordable, hearty South Indian food from a well-known local chain.
INR300, 1h
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