Andhra Pradesh

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Andhra Pradesh, India

Best time to visit Andhra Pradesh

Best time to visit Andhra Pradesh is during the winter season, i.e. between November and February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for the tourists to visit all the tourist attractions. Andhra Pradesh is least recommended during summer as the temperature can hit a maximum of 45°C, making it an incredibly inconvenient option to travel to the state. Heavy rainfall and high humidity levels are experienced during the monsoons which may not be what most tourists are looking for.

Beautiful Places to visit In Andhra Pradesh

1.Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam, also commonly known as Vizag, is one of the oldest port cities in the country. Situated in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam is known for its picturesque beaches and serene landscape, as well as a rich cultural past. The port of Visakhapatnam is renowned for being home to the oldest shipyard in all of India. Located a short distance away from Visakhapatnam is Araku Valley, one of the prime attractions of Vizag. Situated at a lofty 910 metres above sea level, Araku Valley is a hill station replete with gushing waterfalls, crystal clear streams, lush green gardens and some challenging trekking trails. Vizag is dotted with many beaches along its coastline, with the most famous one being the Yarada Beach. One of the most stunning places to see in all of Visakhapatnam, Yarada beach is surrounded by majestic hills on three sides, and by the Bay of Bengal on the other side. One of the best things about Vizag’s beaches is that they are a lot cleaner and a lot less crowded than other famous beaches along the Indian coastline, and Yarada beach is no exception. It is the perfect place to sit back on the golden sands and witness a marvellous sunrise or sunset.

2.Tirupati

Situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is known for Lord Venkateshwara Temple, one of the most visited pilgrimage centres in the country. Tirumala is one of the seven hills in Tirupati, where the main temple is located. The temple is believed to be placed where Lord Venkateshwara took the form of an idol and is hence. Home to the diety Govinda, Tirupati is one of the oldest cities of India and finds mention in plenty of ancient Vedas and Puranas. The non-stop chanting of ‘Om Namo Venkatesaya’, the mad pilgrim rush and the 8-feet tall idol of Lord Venkateshwara – everything about the Sri Venkateshwara Temple is majestic. Spread over an area of 26 kilometres and visited by nearly 50,000 pilgrims every day, the temple is also commonly referred to as the Temple of Seven Hills. There are other temples in Tirupati too that you can visit, including the Sri Kalahasti temple, Sri Govindarajaswami Temple, the Kondandarama Temple, the Parashurameshwara Temple, and the ISKCON temple. Tirupati is home to a unique geological wonder that you shouldn’t miss out on. The Silathoranam is a natural arch formed out of rocks and is located at the Tirumala Hills.

3.Amaravathi

Known as the Capital of Andhra Pradesh, Amaravathi is a planned city on the banks of the River Krishna. Amaravathi is renowned for being a site of a Buddhist Stupa that is a semi-hemispherical structure containing Buddhist relics and often called the Abode of God. Located 32 kilometres north of Guntur District, Amaravati is a prime hub of pilgrimage and sightseeing. The original structure was established during the reign of Emperor Ashoka which is now a meditation site in the city. Being built on a 217km riverfront, the city is designed to have 51% of green spaces. Its foundation stone was laid on 22 October 2015 by prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the separation into two states in the year 2014, Hyderabad was declared the capital city of the then newly formed state Telangana. It led to Amaravathi being chosen as the Capital of Andhra Pradesh. The word Amaravathi in itself was derived from the ancient capital of Satavahana dynasty. Pilgrims visit this town almost throughout the year owing to the number of temples and shrines that adorn the little town in different parts.

4.Araku Valley

Araku Valley is a comparatively unexplored hill station mostly visited by locals as a weekend getaway and is situated some 120 kilometres away from Vishakhapatnam. If you're a tourist looking for exclusivity and tranquillity, Vistadome train leaves Vishakhapatnam at 6.50 AM, making way through 58 tunnels and passing over 84 bridges making way through the breathtaking landscape to reach Araku in approximately in 5 hours, go, catch that! Located in the gentle hills of Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is also home to a number of tribes as well. This valley is also home to a few tribal caves and the Museum of Tribal Arts, which are an experience in their own right. This destination is quite famous for its exquisite coffee, whose subtle aroma will have you craving for a cuppa. In addition to being a beautiful vista point, you can also try your hand at a number of adventure sports here, which include trekking and swimming as well. If a holiday to the hills is your call but you think you've seen it all, maybe you should to wait till you visit this one.

5.Ananthagiri Hills

Set amid the Eastern Ghats, Ananthagiri Hills is a beautiful retreat 90km away from Hyderabad city. One of the earliest human habitat areas, Ananthagiri is a hill town of ancient caves, temples, medieval fort palaces that showcases the history of the area. The place offers some of the best trekking trails and thus serves as a trekker's paradise. Breathtakingly gorgeous and absolutely scintillating, the town oozes out charm mixed with the whiff of coffee aroma and beauty of exotic flora. With romanticism in every aspect of the region, it is a perfect place for honeymooners as well as family vacationers.

6.Vijayawada

Nestled on the banks of River Krishna in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada is the second-largest populated city in the state. Known as the ‘commercial, political and media capital of Andhra Pradesh’, the city is one of the most rapidly growing urban cities in India. Covered by hills and canals, Vijayawada is also home to numerous caves and rock-cut temples carved out of these caves. Vijayawada is an amalgamation of the old world and the new; the air echoes with the clanking of temple bells mixed with the cacophony of traffic, the ancient monuments stand in perfect harmony with the modern architecture of the metro city. Among the most popular places to visit in Vijayawada are Bhavani Island, Victoria Museum, Hazratbal Mosque, Rajiv Gandhi Park, and Kolleru Lake etc., in addition to the host of temples and several caves. Other than this, the city is mostly a base to explore the nearby attractions like the Undavalli Caves, Kondapalli Fort, and Mangalagiri Hill etc.

7.Gandikota

Endearingly known as the ‘Grand Canyon of India’, Gandikota is a twee village in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. Flanked by River Pennar on the right side, the village is popular for the spectacular gorges formed by the river cutting through Erramala Hills. The narrow valleys with streams running between them and the steep rocky walls to give them company remind one of the renowned Grand Canyon in Arizona. It required a walk of almost a kilometre from the main gate to reach the boulder from where you can observe the mesmerising view from the viewpoint near the fort. Located 1.5 hours away from Belum Caves, the highlight of the village of Gandikota are the ruins of Gandikota Fort which was built in the 13th Century. The sturdy fort is flanked by the Pennar gorges on both sides and is protected by a majestic 5-mile wall. Built in red sandstone, the fort boasts of beautiful, intricate carvings in the interior. It also offers sweeping views of the hills and valleys below. In addition to a granary, jail and ruins of some temples, there are several structures within the fort that you can visit.

8.Anantapur

Anantapuram is the headquarters of Anantapur District in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Anantapuram is not a cosmopolitan city. Neither is it a village. It is one of those towns in transition, that is at the confluence of the past and the future. Anantapuram reverberates with flashes of India's glorious history and the true ethnic traditions and values of India. Interestingly, Anantapur receives the second-lowest rainfall in India. Anantapur has seen the rule of many empires, but the Vijayanagar Empire has had a greater impact on it. It is said that the place has derived its name from 'Anaatasagaram', a big tank, which translates into 'Endless Ocean'. Chikkavodeya, the minister of the Vijayanagar King, Bukka-I constructed the town of Anaatasagaram and Bukkarayasamudram.

9.Kurnool

A place of much historical value with beautiful surrounding areas, Kurnool, is a small town in Andhra Pradesh where much of history left its imprints. The city also is known as The Gateway of Rayalaseema. Kurnool has in its domain remains of the palace of Gopal Raju (the last Hindu king), ruins of a medieval fort built by Vijaynagar Empire having ancient Persian and Arabic inscriptions and the summer palace built by Kurnool rulers during the 16th century. Kurnool is derived from the names Kandanavōlu or Kandanōlu, which used to be a crossing across Tungabadra river where the caravans were believed to have greased the tires. The Belum Caves have historical importance in the city as well as the Ketavaram rock paintings which are dated back to the Paleolithic era.

10.Guntur

Known as the Land of Chillies, Guntur is famous for its massive chilli market yard in Asia. It is the third most populous town in Andhra Pradesh located at a distance of 30kms from the newly coined capital Amaravathi. With a busy industrial scenario, Guntur forms part of the prominent Vishakhapatnam-Guntur Industrial corridor. It is also renowned as a textile and transport hub in India. Once home to numerous great dynasties, the city also takes credit in housing the only Buddhist pilgrimage site in South India - the Nagarjunakonda, and the captivating relics of Amravati Caves. Today, it is more known for its industrial growth in exports of chilli products around the globe. An ideal weekend getaway from Hyderabad, Guntur is sure to entice the history buff and the industry expert in you.

Natural Parks in Andhra Pradesh For A Wild Adventure

1.Sri Venkateshwara National Park, Chittoor

Located about 10 km from Tirupati and on the Eastern Ghats, Venkateshwara National Park and biosphere reserve is home to endemic plant species and interesting fauna species like Slender Loris, Tree shrew, Wild dog etc. Bird watchers are also in for treats like Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Roller, Kingfishers etc. But the main attraction of this national park are the three waterfalls, viz, Talakona, Gundalakona and Gujana. Talakona is the highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh and needless to say, it is a stunning spectacle. With good Forest guest houses and accommodation facilities available, one can spend an entire day here.

2.Papikondalu National Park, Papikondalu

Covering a significantly vast area of over 1000 km square, Papikondalu National Park in Andhra Pradesh's East and West Godavari districts is a beautiful forest reserve offering stunning views of nature and rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. The area was declared as a national park only recently in 2008.

3. Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary

Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh is more just an ordinary wildlife sanctuary. It is also the only sanctuary in the state to have a sizeable population of Asian elephants which have migrated from the neighbouring states.

4.Nagarjunasagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarjunsagar

A paradise for nature lovers and wildlife buffs, Nagarjunasagar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Srisailam and is often referred to as Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Sanctuary. Established over a huge area of nearly 3568 sq. kms, this land rich in flora and fauna lies adjacent to Nagarjunasagar Reservoir. In fact, its massive area covers five districts of Kurnool, Prakasam, Nalgonda, Mahabubnagar and Guntur. Apart from being declared as a 'Tiger Reserve' in 1983, this place also inhabits several other species including langur, jackals and macaques etc. The sanctuary is also home to around 150 species of birds which include grey hornbill and pea fouls. Reptiles like monitor lizard, pythons, soft-shelled turtles and marsh crocodiles also call this place as their home. The area is also adorned with River Krishna which flow through Nallamala Hills providing all the inhabitant's source of water. Travellers will also find guesthouses, temple and cottages within the sanctuary premises.

5.Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, Kakinada

Merely 22km away from the Kakinada Beach, Coringa is a Wildlife Sanctuary as well as an estuary. It is home to as many as 35 species of mangrove plants, 120 species of rare birds and innumerable species of flora. This sanctuary is also famous for being home to the critically endangered white-backed vulture and long-billed vulture. Coringa is known to be one of the favourites among eco-tourists. Since it is an estuary, you can also get a stunning view where the sea meets the river. 20 kms away from Kakinada, this wildlife sanctuary is spread across 235 square kilometres. There are wide wooden bridges built through the dense forest lands that allow you to walk through the forest looking at Flora and Fauna. Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is famous and well-known for its saltwater crocodiles and various salt-tolerant species of flora like Avincinia, Rhizophora and many more. The region also sees heavy growth of herbs and shrubs.

6.Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary

Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh covers a large area of around 1,194 sq. km from Prakasam to Kurnool districts. Animals that can be spotted here include tigers, wild dogs, sloth bears, panthers, and pythons. There is also a river that flows through the sanctuary. The ideal time to visit the sanctuary is between the months of May and October. The Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary is known to be last surviving pristine forests of Nallamalai tract where traditional applications of the plants still survive in ethno-botanical value.

7.Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Kurnool

A wildlife sanctuary spread across an area of 614sq kms in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, Rollapadu offers its visitors a journey into the wild, close to nature, amidst a number of diverse species of flora and fauna. Established in 1988, Rollapadu is especially known for being the home to the endangered species of The Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican. The wildlife sanctuary, spread across the huge area is the home to many birds and reptiles. The wildlife sanctuary, spread across huge area is the home to many birds and reptiles. From Blackbucks to sparrows to bonnets and from mynas to Indian rollers, Russell's vipers and Indian cobras. A range of protected species can be spotted here. If you're a nature lover, passionate about being close to and learning about biodiversity, a day in Rollapadu would be worth it. With the Rollapadu village nearby, a man-made water reservoir, preserved for the consumption of wildlife, another reservoir for the collection of rainwater, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary also sets a very good example of the mutual coexistence of mankind and nature.

8. Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary

Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh is the only natural habitat in the world where one can spot the highly endangered Jerdon's courser bird species. The sanctuary is also home to a large species for flora and fauna. It has dry deciduous forests with steep gorges and dramatic slopes. Make sure to spot animals such as the panther, sloth bear, nilgai, foxes and the Jerdon's courser.

Art & Craft of Andhara Pradesh

Ikat - Handlooms

The state of Andhra Pradesh is also very famous due to the skilful hand-weaving quality displayed by the local residents, especially Ikat. This practice of using and selling hand-stitched clothes is a traditional practice being followed till date. The state has some royal dress material and saris with intricate designs to offer. All the handmade designs are very delicate and carefully woven. Every sari is adorned with a 'pallu' and a thin border which is embroidered with some kind of golden thread work. Exclusive to Andhra Pradesh, Ikat is renowned the world-over for its intricate designs and patterns which are also closely followed in Orissa and Gujarata. It originates in the villages of Nalgonda district and involves weaving randomly dyed yarns in a geometric or zigzag patter giving the finished cloth an unparalleled beautiful design. Ikat handlooms can be described as the jewel in the crown of Andhra Pradesh culture.

Handicrafts

Since a long time, India has been identified by its traditional handicraft items occupying a special place in the heart. Andhra Pradesh has been able to keep that spirit alive and is yet another place to offer some exotic and alluring handicraft designs to its visitors. This has been possible with the training that has been given to the involved professionals with care and dedication. The people of the state are in love with their culture and their work itself showcases it. The handicraft culture of Andhra Pradesh is known for the impeccable Banjara embroidery, wood carving and metalwork.

Paintings

A painting is like portraying one's life on a two-dimensional whiteboard. The paintings found in the state represent the rich culture of Andhra Pradesh. To paint is a traditional practice which is followed by the people residing in the state. These paintings are not amateur but have a lot of skill and professional training imbibed within them which can be seen in their work itself. Earlier, the painting was done in a manner wherein natural colours were used on canvas to beautify it and make it look better.

Traditional Dances

A state which does not have dance as part of its culture can never be regarded as a culturally rich state. Andhra Pradesh is one such place which has always had a very rich culture. A collection of performing arts have originated here including dance, music, and drama. Dance is the most important kind of performing art which is why it has always been encouraged by people to be followed ever since the age of dawn. Kuchipudi is one of the most famous dance forms which is also recognized as one of the best kind of dance forms in the world. Kuchipudi undoubtedly has some similarities with another dance form that is, Bharat Natyam. Along with Kuchipudi, many other dance forms including Perini which is an amazing dance form have emerged from the state of Andhra Pradesh. Perini is like a warrior dance which is also known as the 'dance of Lord Shiva'.

Melodious Music

Andhra Pradesh has always been known for its rich musical heritage. This land has given birth to three legends in the world of Carnatic music namely Shyama Sastri, Thyagaraja and Muthuswami Dixtar. Since the Telugu language is spoken by most people in the state, it is, therefore, able to bring out the originality and the true spirit of the Carnatic music. Some famous Carnatic music composers include Kshetrayya, Annamacharya and Bhadrachala Ramadasa. This type of music is also said to be begun by the Holy Gods. Another very famous kind of music which has said to be originated from Carnatic music is folk music. This art has been passed on to the descendants over the years. Every music has a distinctive feature meaning that every composition of music has a different version altogether. The musical element and the hidden meaning behind the song is what makes it more meaningful and attractive. Another feature which separates the Carnatic music from the rest of the music is the fact that the song is always able to bring out the personality of the song composer completely thereby increasing the level of the language in the music.

People Of Andhra Pradesh

A state is truly defined by the type of inhabitants it has. Andhra Pradesh is a mix of people belonging to different religions, communities and having a different lifestyle, religion, and custom to be followed. One is likely to get the sweetest and most courteous kinds of people here. Though people here belong to different caste and religion, they know how to live together in peace and harmony with each other. Andhra Pradesh is like a diverse land which is also a commercial hub for the people of other states. The people of Andhra Pradesh are also known for their kind-hearted & God-fearing nature and the graciousness of which they speak so as to maintain peace and harmony amongst communities.

Religions

The people of Andhra Pradesh are quite devoted to following their religion. Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam are the major religions practised in this state. However, the fact that people belonging to different religions stay put and carry out their religious practices together is an interesting fact. A number of mosques, temples, churches, and stupas have been constructed in the vicinity of the state. Hinduism is the religion which is followed by most population followed by Islam which remains confined in the cities of Secunderabad and Hyderabad. Each and every tribe here has a different belief altogether making the culture of Andhra Pradesh rich and vibrant.

Fairs and Festivals

Festivals are celebrated so as to bring people even closer to each other and to enjoy the spirit of every event. Festivals belonging to every religion are celebrated here by everybody with the exact same enthusiasm and love. These festivals include Diwali, Makar Sankranti, Holi, Eid-ul-Fitr and the like. Other fairs and events including Dance Festival, Ravalaseema Food, Vishakha festival and Deccan festival too are organized in the state to enjoy and spend some time together. Some important and major festivals include Tirupathi festival, Lumbini Festival, Pongal and Ugadi festival.

Food Of Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is known for its spicy food all around the country. The inspiration behind such delicious variations of food lies in the opulent culture of the state, where exotic food is being prepared in the kitchen of the Nawabs since the year of its origin. The Andhra cuisine comprises of both mouth-watering vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The famous Hyderabadi dishes include appetising Biryanis, delectable rice and some tangy pickles and chutneys. We bring to you, a variety of delicious dishes, you must eat at least once in your lifetime!

1.Pulihora

An exotic version of tamarind rice, also known as Chitrannam, is enriched with spicy flavours to give it a sour and salty taste at the same time. One of the main ingredients is tamarind along with curry leaves, tomatoes, and mustard seeds. Pulihora finds its place in kitchens often during festivities and special gatherings. Try the authentic tamarind rice to get a taste of real Andhra cuisine.

2.Chepa Pulusu

A variety of fish curry, popularly known as Chepa Pulusu in the state of Andhra is a hot piquant dish with fish tossed in tamarind sauce and assorted with spicy flavourings and tamarind juice to give it a die-for taste. Prepared using a generous amount of oil and spicy herbs, this fish curry leaves you wanting for even more. The traditional fish gravy can be found in any restaurant serving Andhra cuisine.

3. Gongura Pickle Ambadi

If you love the tangy taste of every pickle then you must try this fiery spicy pickle made with Ambadi leaves, otherwise known as Sorrel leaves. This tasty pickle-chutney hybrid is widely prepared in Andhra as well as in the state of Maharashtra. Well-blended with a variety of spices, this special Andhra dish can be served with flavoured rice or a pair of hot chapatis.

4. Pesarattu

Pesarattu is prepared often for breakfasts in Andhra and regions nearby. The yummy dosa made with green moong dal is a zesty Dosa variant, loved by everyone in the state. The moong dal Dosa is served commonly with coconut chutney or chilli-tomato chutney. Visit one of the authentic Andhra food corners to get a taste of the native Pesarattu flavour.

5. Andhra Chicken Biryani

The state that gave a whole new definition and taste to Biryani is famous for giving birth to some of the most palatable Biryani and Pulao recipes. The original mouth-watering Andhra Chicken Biryani uses a rich combination of aromatic herbs and spices to give the long thin rice grains, a succulent taste. Tossed vegetables are mixed with Chicken to bring the taste it is best known for. Try the Andhra Chicken Biryani for your lunch to have a juicy fulfilling experience.

6. Gutti Vankaya Koora

Prepared by using stuffed eggplant, this curry is a special Andhra dish cooked in every other house in Andhra. The tender eggplants are stuffed with roasted spicy herbs and seasonings to give to a perfect delicious taste. The curry is thick and gives a fresh smell of tamarind and mustard seeds, that will lure you from even a distance. It can be served with aromatic rice or ghee Rotis.

7. Punugulu

Who isn’t fond of a crunchy crispy snack during rainy evenings? Next time when you crave for a delicious snack to eat with your cup of coffee, try the popular yet simple Andhra snack, Punugulu. Prepared with Idli batter and deep fried till golden brown, the mouth-watering snack is served with coconut ginger chutney for a perfect lip-smacking taste.

8. Curd Rice

No Andhra meal is complete without a serving of the light yet yummy curd rice! Widely popular in Andhra as well as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, curd rice is loved by anyone who gets the taste of it. It can be easily prepared at homes by using a simple recipe with unsweetened curd, rice, and assorted vegetables. To give it a fine taste, it is often blended with ginger, chopped green chillies and curry leaves. The best part of curd rice that gives it a tangy salty taste is the Tadka seasoned using cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and urad dal. It is also extremely digestible and carries plenty of health benefits.

9. Dondakaya Fry

For all those gourmet out there, who seek homestyle recipes of Andhra, your search ends at this delicious dish. The Dondakaya Fry is a stir fry item, prepared with IvyGuord curry, also known as Parwal, Kundru, and Tondli in other languages of the country. The healthy dish is enriched with vitamins and boasts of being an amazing body detoxifier. It is prepared with nuts and spices that give it a crispy nutty taste. It can be served with hot roti or rice and rasam.

10. Bobbatlu

If you think the Andhra cuisine is all about tangy spices and fiery chillies, then you couldn’t have been more wrong! They also have delicious items for those with a sweet tooth. Bobbatlu, also known as Puran Poli, is an all time favourite classic sweet dish prepared commonly in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. It is considered to be very pious and is extensively prepared during important festivals and celebrations. The outer layer is prepared with wheat flour or refined flour and the inside stuffing is made with lentils and jaggery giving it a delicate and inviting taste.

11. Medu Vada

The popular South Indian recipe has been the favourite in kitchens of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Known with a variety of names like Ulundu Vadai, Ulli Garelu and Uzhunnu Vada, the delicious doughnut-like savoury is prepared widely during all festivals and celebrations. The main ingredient is the Urad Dal, and hence the name. Try this tasty Indianized version of doughnut during the coming festivities at your home.

12. Uppindi

Not all dishes need to be given hours of time to prepare. Some of them are rightly termed as the Bachelor’s diet and can be cooked in a couple of minutes and yet taste amazing! Uppindi or Arisi Upma, as many call it, is a popular Rava Upma dish which is easy as well as fast to prepare. It can be cooked right at your home, during those crazy rush mornings while going off to work. It is made using Rava, peanuts and different varieties of spices to give it a tasteful punch. The next time you visit a restaurant serving an authentic Andhra cuisine, don’t forget to try one of these amazing food items to relish the taste of unique Andhra style tangy spices and seasonings.

Architecture

Andhra Pradesh’s rich history of dynasties and kingdoms influenced the architecture significantly. The Dravidian style of architecture is intertwined with cultural practices of rulers from Chola, Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Satavahanas and Gajapati empires. There are many Buddhist and Hindu temples that resemble the trademark Dravidian style, towering stone structures that are decorated with carvings of religious deities and symbols. Intricate details and flawless engravings are visible on almost every monument dating from that time. Diversity of the architecture compliments the harmony of the Telugu culture brilliantly.

Literature

Telugu is the official language spoken by natives in Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring states. It is one of the ancient Dravidian languages, dating back to first millennium AD. Many scholars have found inscriptions in Telugu from 500 BC to 100 BC, proving its existence goes way back. Even though it originates from Proto-Dravidian sub-language, literary experts have confirmed its connection to Sanskrit as well as Hindi. Ancient poets Nannaya, Tikkana and Yerrapragada constitute the holy ‘Trinity of Poets’ that are credited for reviving the language and promoting its vocabulary through popular translational works like Mahabharata.

Social Customs and Traditions

Andhra Pradesh, like many Indian states, is a rich concoction of cultures, religious practices, traditions, beliefs and ethnicity. Ethnic tribesmen and urban citizens live in perfect harmony and you will see natives coming together, celebrating festivals like Ugadi (Telugu New Year), Makar Sankranti, Ram Navami, Maha Shivratri, Dasara and Diwali. Many citizens still believe in ancient traditions and pursue them sincerely. Muggulu is one such tradition where people decorate entrances with white rice powder. These age-old traditions are prevalent in many households and may vary depending on ethnicity. This is a speciality of Andhra Pradesh. There lies a huge difference in reading about the culture and traditions of a place and actually witnessing it and experiencing it all together. Every state, district, country and even every house follow a different lifestyle which distinctly identifies it from the rest. So do the practices carried out by the people of Andhra Pradesh. This state is a land full of fun, frolic, laughter, and life which has not yet been discovered by more than half of the population. As can be made out from the article, the culture of Andhra Pradesh is rich in terms of its food, clothing, festivals, dance, music, paintings or any other forte. The state has a lot to offer for those who want to be a part of it and appreciate its beauty. Plan a trip and see for yourself what a beautiful life lies at the place with the exact kind of peace and harmony that is required in the world today but goes missing.