Vizag to Araku Day Trip - Need some advice

Hello,

I will be in Vizag for a few days during my trip to India.

I have decided to take the train from Vizag up to Araku (I've heard it is an amazing journey).

When I arrive in Araku around 11am, I am thinking about seeing the Katika Waterfalls and the Borra caves.

I have a couple questions:

1) For the Vizag to Araku train, should I book first class or sleeper? Which will give me the best views from the train?

2) At the Araku station, is it possible to find a private driver to take me to the waterfalls and caves? How much would that cost approximately?

3) Is it a better plan to take the bus from Araku back to Vizag, or should I take a private driver? Again, how much would that cost?

4) I heard someone suggest getting off the train at Borra, seeing the caves, then walking 2km to the Waterfalls. Is that a good idea? Will I be able to find a driver to take me from the waterfalls to Araku?


Thanks!!!!

Bumping with a request for responses........

Hi,

If you are still planning to Araku trip.
I suggest book a one day trip by AP tourism.
Try the below link. This package is a day tour with one way travel by train and return by bus and cost you some 600 rupees per person. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are included. A very comfortable one for newbie


http://aptdc.in/tourpack/vizag.php

1 . All you need is an open window seat for a 3hr journey frm Vizag to Borra . Most of the compartments are unreserved for that train .

2. you need to get down at Borra station for visiting caves nearby .

you can walk along the rail tracks from borra caves to waterfalls . But , that can be good only in Winter . There are jeeps that take you from borra caves to katiki waterfalls and they drop you at Araku passing through Coffee plantations and Araku valley . On a shared basis , it costs 150-200 per head

3 . There are frequent buses from Araku to Vizag .

You don't need 1st class ticket, sleeper will be just fine.
Also if you can manage some time you can visit Jagdalpur.