Burra Caves in Araku Valley: Exploring the Secret Underground Kingdom
🌟 Burra Caves: Nature's Masterpiece and the Perfect Araku Getaway
If you’re planning a trip to the serene Araku Valley, your itinerary must include the mesmerizing Burra Caves (often called Borra Caves). This natural wonder perfectly blends adventure, ancient history, and breathtaking beauty. We’ve put together the ultimate guide for visiting the caves and finding the most comfortable and affordable tent stay nearby!
🪨 🌄 The Mystery Within: What Makes Burra Caves So Special?
Discovered in 1807 by British geologist William King George, these caves hold immense mythological significance as well. Locals reverently call them Burra Guhalu (Telugu for “skull caves”) due to a unique skull-shaped rock formation inside. Furthermore, the presence of a naturally formed Shivalinga makes the Burra Caves a popular spiritual site for Hindu devotees, perfectly blending geology with faith.
Tucked away in the Ananthagiri Hills of the Eastern Ghats, the Burra Caves are one of Andhra Pradesh’s most spectacular attractions. These vast limestone caves were slowly formed over millions of years by the flow of the Gosthani River, which dissolved the rock and created stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.
The moment you step inside, you feel the cool, damp air and hear the soft echo of dripping water—it’s like entering nature’s own silent cathedral. Locals call them Burra Guhalu (“skull caves”), and they hold deep spiritual significance, housing a natural Shivalinga and Kamadhenu (cow) image—a beautiful blend of geology and legend.
✨ Inside the Cave: A Magical Underground World
Stepping into the Burra Caves is like entering a secret, cool, damp realm far removed from the tropical heat. The cave system stretches impressively, reaching about 100 meters wide and 80 meters deep.
To enhance the visual experience, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department has installed colorful, strategic lighting. These illuminations highlight nature’s artistry, making unique rock shapes—which resemble animals, deities, and human faces—come alive. As you walk the illuminated pathways, the echo of dripping water adds a mysterious, rhythmic melody to your exploration. Every turn reveals a piece of living art, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, adventurers, and especially photographers.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Burra Caves and Araku
For the most comfortable and rewarding experience, the ideal time to visit the Burra Caves and Araku Valley is from October to March. The weather during these months is cool, crisp, and perfect for exploring both the subterranean depths and the lush hills above. This period also offers excellent visibility for enjoying the stunning sunrises and sunsets from Araku View Point.
It is advisable to avoid the heavy monsoon season (July–September), as the cave interiors can become slippery and travel routes in the hills may be challenging.
⛺ Make It an Adventure: Unforgettable Araku Tent Stay
Combine the Fun: Ask your parents to book a tent stay in Araku so you can see the super-starlit sky after your cave adventure!
After a day of exploring the Burra Caves, elevate your trip with an immersive nature experience! Embrace the tranquility of the valley with a memorable Araku tent stay.
Araku Valley is becoming a hub for night camping in Araku, offering several secure spots where you can unwind under a vast, star-filled sky. Whether you’re looking for basic camping tents in Araku or a luxurious Araku starlight camping setup, there are options near Araku View Point and the famous coffee estates. Many local operators provide all-inclusive camping packages that feature bonfires, local music, and traditional cuisine, often making the tent stay in Araku experience surprisingly affordable.
Why Choose Camping in Araku?
🌌 Starlight Views: Experience genuinely dark skies perfect for Araku starlight camping and astronomy.
🔥 Cultural Evenings: Enjoy bonfires and local tribal dance performances.
☕ Authentic Flavors: Savor fresh Araku coffee and homemade local snacks.
🏞️ Perfect Location: Stay close to the Burra Caves, Katiki Waterfalls, and Araku View Point.
Combining your cave exploration with a night camping in Araku experience ensures you take home not just photos, but incredible memories of nature, peace, and starry skies
📍 How to Reach Borra Caves
Reaching the Borra Caves is an adventure in itself, offering some of the most scenic journeys in South India:
By Road: The caves are easily accessible. Regular government buses and hired taxis run frequently from both Visakhapatnam and Araku Valley. ( By road from Visakhapatnam (90 km)
By Train: This is highly recommended! The Visakhapatnam–Araku train route is famous for its panoramic mountain views, tunnels, and bridges. The nearest station, Borra Guhalu Station, is conveniently located just 2 km from the caves.
By Air: The closest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ). From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus onward to Araku
📝 Travel Tips for Visiting Burra Caves
Entry Timings: The caves are generally open from 10 AM to 1.00PM ; 2.00PM to 5 PM. (Every Day)
Fees: There is a nominal entry fee, with an additional charge for using cameras.
- 60 per person for Adults
- 45 per person for Children
- 25 for Phone Camera
- 100 for Digital / Still Camera/Video Camera
Safety: Though lit, a small flashlight can be helpful in deeper sections.
Wear Grippy Shoes: The floor inside the cave can be wet and slippery from all the water dripping! You need shoes that won’t slip.
Bring a Camera: You will want to take photos of all the amazing lights and rock shapes.
Time to Explore!
The Borra Caves in Araku Valley are waiting for you! It’s an ancient, amazing, and totally cool place to explore in Araku . Go see the magic that water and time created!
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your trip by visiting these beautiful spots surrounding the Burra Caves:
Araku Valley: Explore the heart of the Eastern Ghats, known for its tribal culture and coffee estates.
Katiki Waterfalls: A short distance away, perfect for nature lovers and a refreshing dip.
Araku View Point: Offers stunning panoramic vistas, especially popular for sunrise photography.
Tribal Museum, Araku: Learn about the rich history and unique art of the local tribes.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Burra Caves
Q1. What are the Burra Caves visiting hours and days?
Ans: The Burra Caves are open daily from 10 AM to 1 PM and again from 2 PM to 5 PM.
Q2. What is the ticket price for adults and child at the Burra Caves?
Ans: The entry fee for adults is ₹60, for child ₹45 per person. There is an extra charge if you bring a camera.
Q3. Where exactly are the Burra Caves located?
Ans: The caves are located in the Ananthagiri Hills of the Eastern Ghats, approximately 35 km from the main Araku Valley area.
Q4. What is the most scenic way to reach the Burra Caves?
Ans: The train route from Visakhapatnam to the Borra Guhalu Station is the most scenic way, famous for its numerous tunnels and mountain views.
Q5. What is the best time of year to visit the Burra Caves and Araku?
Ans: The best time to visit is during the cool, dry season from October to March for the most comfortable exploration.
Q6. How long does it take to explore the Burra Caves completely?
Ans: It generally takes a visitor between 1 to 1.5 hours to comfortably walk through the illuminated pathways and admire all the unique rock formations.