Eastern Ghats, India Travel Guide

Discover the untamed beauty and cultural richness of the Eastern Ghats, an enchanting range of hills offering diverse experiences from wildlife sanctuaries to tribal heritage.

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Eastern Ghats

Nestled along the southeastern edge of India, the Eastern Ghats offer an alluring escape into nature's embrace. This range of verdant hills stretches from Odisha to Tamil Nadu, presenting a treasure trove of biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness. From serene hill stations and sacred temples to cascading waterfalls and dense forests, the Eastern Ghats promise an experience that touches both the soul and the senses. The region is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, like the Simlipal National Park and the Araku Valley. These protected areas are havens for rare flora and fauna, making them a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The lush greenery and tranquil environment provide a perfect setting for trekking, camping, and photography, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and serenity of the landscape. Culturally, the Eastern Ghats are rich with tribal heritage. Various indigenous communities inhabit the hills, each with its unique traditions, crafts, and festivals. Visiting these tribal areas offers a glimpse into their way of life, traditional dances, and local cuisine, providing a culturally enriching experience. The region's temples, like the famous Araku Shiva Temple, add a spiritual dimension to the journey, reflecting the deep-rooted religious traditions of the area. Whether you are seeking adventure, peace, or a cultural dive, the Eastern Ghats stand as a gateway to an extraordinary and diverse travel experience. With its untouched beauty and welcoming locals, this destination invites you to explore and discover its many hidden gems.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Eastern Ghats.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore the Eastern Ghats is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for outdoor activities.
Local Cuisine: Try the traditional tribal dishes and local delicacies like bamboo chicken in Araku Valley for an authentic culinary experience.
Travel Light: Pack light and carry comfortable trekking gear if you plan to explore the hills and forests.
Respect Local Traditions: When visiting tribal villages, be respectful of their customs and traditions. It’s advisable to seek permission before taking photographs.
Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water, especially if you are trekking or spending time in remote areas, as access to clean drinking water can be limited.

Top City Travel Guides in Eastern Ghats

The cities of Eastern Ghats, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Visakhapatnam

Best landmarks in Eastern Ghats

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Assi Ghat Varanasi

Experience the spiritual heart of Varanasi at Assi Ghat, where tradition, culture, and breathtaking views converge along the sacred Ganges River.

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Borra Caves

Explore the mesmerizing Borra Caves in Andhra Pradesh, where stunning limestone formations and rich cultural heritage await adventurers and nature lovers alike.

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Western Ghats

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where adventure and nature intertwine in perfect harmony.

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Eastern Ghats Areal View

Discover the stunning vistas and rich biodiversity of the Eastern Ghats, a natural wonder in Andhra Pradesh that promises adventure and tranquility.

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Best restaurants in Eastern Ghats

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Vasundhara Restaurant

Discover authentic South Indian flavors at Vasundhara Restaurant in Padmapuram – your destination for delicious biryani and vegetarian delights.

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Sri Anjaneya Bamboo Chicken

Experience authentic Andhra cuisine at Sri Anjaneya Bamboo Chicken, where traditional flavors meet stunning natural beauty.

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AHA restaurant A/C

Experience authentic Indian cuisine at AHA Restaurant A/C in Salur - where tradition meets taste.

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Anakapalle vari mess

Discover the rich flavors of Indian cuisine at Anakapalle Vari Mess in Borra – a must-visit for food lovers seeking authentic experiences.

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Best bars in Eastern Ghats

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Hideaway Café and Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful flavors at Hideaway Café and Bar, Vagator's premier cocktail destination.

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Gravity

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Gravity, Vizianagaram's premier grill destination offering unforgettable culinary delights.

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Janapriya Restaurant & Bar

Discover the essence of Andhra Pradesh's cuisine at Janapriya Restaurant & Bar, offering grilled delights and a vibrant atmosphere in Vizianagaram.

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Native Cocktail Room

Experience Jaipur's nightlife at Native Cocktail Room, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere meet in the heart of Rajasthan.

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Best nightclubs in Eastern Ghats

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AREE HILLS

Discover Aree Hills, the vibrant night club in Araku Valley, offering an enchanting blend of nightlife and natural beauty for unforgettable experiences.

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Best shops in Eastern Ghats

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LuLu International Shopping Mall

Experience the ultimate shopping and entertainment destination at LuLu International Shopping Mall in Kochi, where culture meets modernity.

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Express Avenue

Explore Express Avenue, Chennai's premier shopping mall, where retail therapy meets entertainment in a vibrant setting.

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Borra Caves

Explore the enchanting Borra Caves, a natural marvel in Andhra Pradesh, showcasing stunning limestone formations and rich cultural history.

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Ananthagiri Water Falls

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ananthagiri Water Falls, a serene escape in Andhra Pradesh's Anantagiri Mountain Range.

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Explore Eastern Ghats on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Eastern Ghats, mapped for you.

Eastern Ghats Essentials

The Eastern Ghats extend across several states in India, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. The nearest major airports are Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ) in Andhra Pradesh, Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) in Odisha, and Chennai International Airport (MAA) in Tamil Nadu. From these airports, you can hire a taxi or take a train to various entry points of the Eastern Ghats. Major railway stations like Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, and Chennai offer convenient access to the region. Buses operated by state transport corporations also connect major cities to towns and villages in the Eastern Ghats.
Transportation within the Eastern Ghats includes a mix of local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. For a more comfortable journey, consider hiring a private car with a driver, which can be arranged through travel agencies or hotels. In rural areas, you might find it useful to rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the terrain. Trains are available for longer distances, connecting various towns within the Ghats. Note that some remote areas might require trekking or the use of off-road vehicles.
The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but in rural and remote areas, cash is typically preferred. ATMs can be found in larger towns, but it is advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling to smaller villages or remote locations. It is also a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
The Eastern Ghats are generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in remote areas. Some regions may have higher crime rates, particularly in urban outskirts, so stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure. Research and avoid any politically sensitive areas. Wildlife encounters are possible, so follow local guidelines and avoid trekking alone in dense forests.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Major towns have hospitals and clinics, but for serious medical issues, it is best to travel to the nearest city with advanced medical facilities. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health concerns. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and other unexpected incidents.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and modest clothing suited for trekking and varying weather conditions. Avoid revealing clothing, especially in rural and religious areas. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and remove footwear before entering temples. Don't photograph religious ceremonies without permission. Public Transport: Do use public transport respectfully and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' (pressing your palms together) or a handshake. Don't be overly physical in public. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered rude.
To experience the Eastern Ghats like a local, visit weekly markets in smaller towns where you can buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in local festivals, which offer a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the region. Explore lesser-known trekking routes and natural spots for a more authentic and serene experience.

When is the best time to visit Eastern Ghats?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Eastern Ghats

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Eastern Ghats. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloనమస్కారం
  [Namaskāraṁ]
- Goodbyeవీడ్కోలు
  [Vīḍkōlu]
- Yesఅవును
  [Avunu]
- Noకాదు
  [Kādu]
- Please/You’re welcomeదయచేసి
  [Dayacēsi]
- Thank youధన్యవాదాలు
  [Dhan'yavādālu]
- Excuse me/Sorryక్షమించండి
  [Kṣamiñcaṇḍi]
- How are you?మీరు ఎలా ఉన్నారు?
  [Mīru ēlā unnāru?]
- Fine. And you?బాగున్నాను. మీరు ఎలా?
  [Bāgunnānu. Mīru ēlā?]
- Do you speak English?మీరు ఇంగ్లీష్ మాట్లాడుతారా?
  [Mīru iṅglīṣ māṭlāḍutārā?]
- I don't understandనాకు అర్థం కావడం లేదు
  [Nāku arthaṁ kāvaḍaṁ lēdu]
- I’d like to see the menu, pleaseదయచేసి, మెనూ చూడాలనుకుంటున్నాను
  [Dayacēsi, menū cūḍālanukuṇṭunnānu]
- I don't eat meatనేను మాంసం తినను
  [Nēnu māṁsaṁ tinanu]
- Cheers!జై!
  [Jai!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseదయచేసి నేను చెల్లించాలనుకుంటున్నాను
  [Dayacēsi nēnu celliñcālanukuṇṭunnānu]
- Help!ఉదவி!
  [Udavi!]
- Go away!వెళ్ళిపో!
  [Veḷḷipō!]
- Call the Police!పోలీసులను పిలవండి!
  [Pōlīsulanu pilavaṇḍi!]
- Call a doctor!ఒక డాక్టర్‌ను పిలవండి!
  [Oka ḍākṭar nu pilavaṇḍi!]
- I’m lostనేను కోల్పోయాను
  [Nēnu kōlpōyānu]
- I’m illనేను అనారోగ్యంగా ఉన్నాను
  [Nēnu anārōgyāṅgā unnānu]
- I’d like to buy...నేను కొనాలనుకుంటున్నాను...
  [Nēnu konālanukuṇṭunnānu...]
- I’m just lookingనేను చూస్తున్నాను
  [Nēnu cūstunnānu]
- How much is it?ఇది ఎంత?
  [Idi enta?]
- That’s too expensiveఅది చాలా ఖరీదే
  [Adi chālā kharīde]
- Can you lower the price?మీరు ధర తగ్గించగలరా?
  [Mīru dhara taggiñcagalārā?]
- What time is it?ఇది ఎంత సమయం?
  [Idi enta samayaṁ?]
- It’s one o’clockఇది ఒక్క గంట
  [Idi okka gaṇṭa]
- Half past (10)పది లేదా
  [Padi lēdā]
- Morningఉదయం
  [Udayaṁ]
- Afternoonమధ్యాహ్నం
  [Madhyāhnaṁ]
- Eveningసాయంత్రం
  [Sāyantraṁ]
- Yesterdayనిన్న
  [Ninna]
- Todayఈ రోజు
  [Ī rōju]
- Tomorrowరేపు
  [Rēpu]
- 1ఒకటి
  [Okaṭi]
- 2రెండు
  [Reṇḍu]
- 3మూడు
  [Mūḍu]
- 4నాలుగు
  [Nālugu]
- 5ఐదు
  [Aidu]
- 6ఆరు
  [Āru]
- 7ఏడు
  [Ēḍu]
- 8ఎనిమిది
  [Enimidi]
- 9తొమ్మిది
  [Tommidi]
- 10దస
  [Dasa]
- Where's a/the...?ఒక/ది ... ఎక్కడ?
  [Oka/di ... ekkaḍa?]
- What's the address?చిరునామా ఏమిటి?
  [Cirunāmā ēmiṭi?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?మీరు నాకు చూపించగలరా (నక్షత్రం మీద)?
  [Mīru nāku cūpiñcagalārā (nakaṣṭraṁ mēda)?]
- When's the next (bus)?తర్వాతి (బస్సు) ఎప్పుడు?
  [Taravāṭi (bussu) eppuḍu?]
- A ticket (to ....)ఒక టికెట్ (.... కు)
  [Oka ṭikeṭ (.... ku)]

History of Eastern Ghats

The Eastern Ghats have been home to various ancient civilizations. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic Age. Megalithic burial sites, dolmens, and rock-cut caves are scattered throughout the Eastern Ghats, indicating the presence of early human settlements. Significant sites include the Borra Caves in Andhra Pradesh, which have yielded artifacts from ancient human habitation.
The Kalinga Kingdom, located in the northern part of the Eastern Ghats, played a crucial role in Indian history. It was famously conquered by Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty in the 3rd century BCE during the Kalinga War. This brutal conflict resulted in Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and the spread of Buddhist teachings across Asia. Remnants of the Kalinga Kingdom's capital can still be seen in the region, including ancient fortifications and stupas.
Throughout the medieval period, the Eastern Ghats were ruled by various dynasties, including the Eastern Chalukyas, the Kakatiyas, and the Gajapatis of Odisha. Each of these dynasties left their mark on the region through the construction of temples, forts, and other architectural marvels. The Simhachalam Temple near Visakhapatnam and the ruins of the Warangal Fort are notable examples of the architectural legacy of these dynasties.
The Eastern Ghats were not untouched by European colonial ambitions. The British East India Company established control over parts of the region in the 18th and 19th centuries. The hill stations of Araku Valley and Lambasingi were developed during this period as summer retreats for British officials seeking to escape the oppressive heat of the Indian plains. The colonial legacy is still evident in the architecture and layout of these hill stations.
The Eastern Ghats are home to a rich tapestry of tribal cultures, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. Prominent tribes in the region include the Kondh, Bonda, and Koya communities. These tribes have preserved their way of life for centuries, living in harmony with the forested hills and valleys. Traditional festivals, dances, and crafts are an integral part of their cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into their ancient ways of life.
In recent decades, the Eastern Ghats have seen significant development, with increased infrastructure and tourism activities. Efforts have been made to balance development with conservation, as the region is a biodiversity hotspot. The establishment of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as the Papikonda National Park and the Similipal National Park, highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the Eastern Ghats.