Some breathtaking valleys

Life is full of vicissitudes, like peaks and valleys. Backpackers are enthralled by valleys, which teleport them to a tranquil spot where one can hitchhike, see the beauty of a rising or setting sun, or meditate.

- RAVI VALLURI

Deep down south in Andhra Pradesh is the virtually unknown Araku, which is around 114 km away from the port town of Vishakapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

Araku valley is blessed with an alluring landscape covered with verdant forests and coffee plantations. This valley is surrounded by the Araku and Borra caves. Numerous waterfalls dot the landscape, and a globe-trotter gets a flavor of indigenous tribal life.

The valley is perched on the famous Kottavilasa-Kirandul line where the railways ferry iron ore. An intrepid traveler can hitchhike on a freight train, guard permitting, and reach Kirandul, which appears to be at the end of the world—a majestic view awaits as the crimson red sun sinks to nowhere.