Offbeat Destinations One Can Explore in Andhra Pradesh by APSRTC Buses

Tourism is often associated with famous spots, monuments, religious places etc. Though these are the much-preferred spots for a vacation trip, there also are those minor, non-popular places that are equally enticing.

The pandemic has forced people to stay indoors for too many months that some are willing to go out to these offbeat areas for their share of fun. Andhra Pradesh is a blessed state with natural beauty and several ancient man-made wonders that are not yet popular among the folks. Here, you can find some of these offbeat destinations you can easily explore in the state that are reachable through the APSRTC buses.

Offbeat destinations in AP reachable by public buses

The best places to visit in Andhra Pradesh are mostly under-explored areas that hold natural beauty, ancient architecture, and a mix of serenity and adventure. A few such destinations are listed below:

Lepakshi

A small town Lepakshi, just a few kilometres away from the IT hub, Bengaluru, is one of the most underrated tourist destinations. The only tourist destination here is the Veerabhadra temple that holds many architectural wonders of the historical time.

There are several larger than life sculpture such as the Nandi statue made out of single granite rock, a hanging pillar, the famous Shivling guarded by the snake sculpture, a giant footprint believed to be that of Devi Sita, being washed naturally by underground water, and the natural wonder of all, a leafless tree that seems to be surviving for years.

This is also the place where Lord Rama met the dying Jatayu and helped the latter get its salvation. The name of this palace came through his words, ‘Le Pakshi’, which means, ‘Rise, Oh Bird!’

Gandikota

This is where India’s answer to the Grand Canyon is situated. The word Gandikota is split into Gandi that means Canyon and Kota that means “Fort”. There is an old fort that surrounds the area. There also are a few other monuments nearby within the fort where this canyon is located. There is a no-deity temple, an old mosque, a watchtower, and a jail. Most of these are old monuments, but there is a camping option for the adventure seekers.

Belum caves

This is one of the longest natural caves in India. This is situated in Kurnool district, just a few hours away from Gandikota. Tourists can enter the caves and set out exploring with a nominal entry fee. This is a perfect place for the adventurers who badly want to get out of their homes for a weekend.

Inside the cave, there is the mysterious Patalganga river that rises and flows into the unknown underground source of water, Dhyan Mandir where the ancient Jain and Buddhists used to meditate, Saptaswarala Guha where the walls can emanate the seven musical notes when tapped at the right areas.

Orvakal Rock Garden

This is a hub of naturally formed rocks that are differently shaped and formed from igneous rocks. The rock formation shows different layers, indicating its origin through a volcanic eruption. Although this is in a small village with less crowd, this is a wonderful place to visit.

It is a photographer’s paradise and a perfect spot for some little adventures.

There is a small refreshment spot but not any other restaurants nearby. The place is easily accessible through public transportation from Kurnool.

Lambasingi

Because of its beautiful valley and the chilly weather, Lambasingi is termed as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh. This is a small village just away from Vizag came to limelight when the temperature reached sub-zero, back in 2012, ever since there has been a flow of tourists to this area and to the nearby attractions.

Kothapally waterfalls

Kothapally waterfalls is one of the famous attractions near Lambasingi. You can see a picturesque view of the majestic waterfall that falls through several steps down. This natural beauty doesn’t need much explanation. A single view is enough for a lifetime memory.

Borra caves

Borra caves are yet another natural and larger caves in AP. The tourism department has lighted these majestic caves in multi colours, making it a visual treat. Though the cave is inhabited by bats, one cannot ignore its enchanting beauty. There is also a small temple built inside by the villagers where a shivling was found.

Talakona waterfalls

Talakona waterfall is the highest in the state and is situated in the Sri Venkateswara National Park in Chittoor District which houses several endangered species of animals, reptiles, and birds. The attractions here, a[art from the waterfalls, are the hanging rope bridge at a height of 30–40ft. There also are options for trekking.

Tirumala Hills Natural Arch

Tirumala Hills houses a special natural arch made of rocks. The rock arch is made of rock mountain columns on either side and meets at the middle to form an arch. Since this is situated in the holy hills, people relate this arch to the hood of the snake and in connection to the Lord Balaji. This is one great tourist spot while visiting the Tirupati temple.

Travelling by public transport

The RTC has resumed their services so that it is now easier for the public to travel within the state or to other neighbouring states. Though there is still restriction with the inter-state travels, APSRTC online services are open for all trips within the state. If you want to take a small trip, it is now possible with public transportation.

Most of these destinations mentioned here are accessible by bus, and most of them have direct routes from main points like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Vizag, Kurnool etc.

As per the reports, the RTC transportation is picking up, with almost 70% of the usual bookings. You can easily make the APSRTC booking through redBus and can also have the convenient APSRTC live tracking for the trips if you want to share the route with others.

The pandemic has created such havoc that getting back to normalcy is still a distant dream. Yet, people are finding ways to get out of their homes and have some fun outside. As of now, the best option is to avoid crowded areas and sticking to these kinds of offbeat destinations for a while. Not only would it be safer for you but also improves the tourism prospects of such places which are mostly flying way under the radar.