Borra Caves, Vishakhapatnam

Borra Caves- Awe Inspiring Wonder of Nature

Borra Caves are located in the Ananthagiri hill ranges of Araku valley on the East coast of India. They are called ‘Borra Guhalu’ in Telugu wherein ‘Borra’ stands for something bored into the ground and ‘guhalu’ stands for caves. The caves are known for its irregularly shaped and varied sized stalactites and stalagmites which are essentially Karstic limestone structures. These extend to a depth of 262 feet inside and this makes it one of the deepest caves in India.

Legend associated with the caves

The caves were discovered by William King George of Geological Survey of India in 1807. After the discovery various legends related to the caves as narrated by the local tribes came to surface. One of them is the falling of a cow into the cave through the roof and the cowherd coming across them during the search for his cow. The cowherd seeing a stone resembling a Lingam believed that it was Lord Shiva who protected his cow. Hence, a small temple of Lord Shiva exists outside the cave.  

How to reach the place?

The Borra caves are located 29 kms from the Araku valley, near Vishakhapatnam. The place is well connected by rail, road and air services. The journey by rail takes about five hours from Vishakhapatnam as the Vizag- Kirandul passenger train mends its way to the ‘Borra Guhalu’ railway station. The closest airport is again the one at Vishakhapatnam. The three hour road journey from Vishakhapatnam like the train is very enjoyable passing through some scenic hilly terrain.

Guided Tours

Package tours from Vishakhapatnam to Araku valley on a daily basis which include rail and road journeys are provided by the Andhra Pradesh State Tourism Department. They include attractions like Tyada railway tunnel, Ananthagiri Coffee Plantation etc besides a visit to Borra caves. Information board is placed at the entrance of the caves which gives an idea about their formation and the surrounding areas.

Best times to visit

The ideal period to visit the caves are the months of November and December. The caves are open to the public from 10 am to 5.30 pm.

Lighting Effect

The Andhra Pradesh State Tourism Department has added to the caves’ appeal by installation of 26 sodium, mercury vapour and halogen electric lamps. The reflection of the light on the stalactite and stalagmite formations in the cave lend a mysterious allure to the site. The caves’ surroundings provide a glimpse of the rich flora and fauna with which the mountainous area is endowed.

Truly, a natural wonder which ought not to be missed by any tourist.