Borra Caves in Araku Valley Hill Station
· Summer: (35°C-43°C) Cool to warm weather.
· Winter: (15°C-22°C) Moderately cool and pleasant weather.
· Monsoon: June-October. Heavy rainfall.
Best time to visit:
November-May
Opening Time: 10:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 11:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: Open 7 days a week.
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: INR 25
Children:
INR 15
Cameras: INR 10
Video Camera: INR 100
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
INR 25
Children:
INR 15
Cameras:
INR 10
Video Camera:
N/A
In India, the thin line between nature and mysticism is often difficult to draw and this can be best explained by Borra Caves. Located in Ananthagiri Hills near the Eastern Coast of India, the caves are world-famous for the naturally formed limestone stalagmites and stalactites many of which represent Hindu deities, icons and religious structures.
Counted among the largest caves in India, Borra Caves are the deepest in the country and formed by the constant action of River Gosthani. Believed to be some 150 billion years old, the caves were discovered in the beginning of the 19th century. Shiva Lingam and figure of a holy cow (called Kamdhenu) are among the religious formations worshipped by the devotees.
A number of colourful halogen and sodium lamps lit up the caves beautifully. Apart from exploring the caves, one can admire the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings.
Warnings:
Accompanying a guide is strictly recommended.
Connectivites
Road:
Accessible by the hill road connecting Visakhapatnam and Araku Valley which is full of natural splendour and attractions like view points, plantations, valleys and gardens.
Railway:
Borra Guhallu Railway Station (about 1 km. away) acts as a convenient access point. The rail journey of 5 hours from Visakhapatnam to the railway station is made excited by the presence of nearly 30 tunnels.
Airway:
Visakhapatnam Airport (about 90 km. away) is the closest airport which is also one of the busiest in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Flights are available to and from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Singapore and other destinations.