How to Reach Eastern Ghats Mountains?
How to Reach Eastern Ghats Mountains: A Traveler's Guide
Eastern Ghats Mountains, often overshadowed by their more famous counterpart, the Western Ghats, are a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Spanning across India’s eastern coast, this mountain range boasts breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a unique cultural tapestry. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, the Eastern Ghats offer a plethora of experiences. However, reaching these pristine mountains can be a bit of an adventure in itself. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through various routes and transportation options to help you reach the Eastern Ghats Mountains with ease.
Understanding the Eastern Ghats Mountains
Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to understand the geography of the Eastern Ghats. This mountain range stretches over 1,750 kilometers from West Bengal in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south, running parallel to the Bay of Bengal. The Eastern Ghats is a vast, rugged terrain characterized by hills, plateaus, valleys, and dense forests. While the Western Ghats are more renowned, the Eastern Ghats offer their charm and uniqueness.
Best Time to Visit
The Eastern Ghats have a tropical climate, and the best time to visit varies depending on your preferences. However, the winter months, from October to March, are generally considered the ideal time. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and you can explore the region without the scorching heat or heavy rainfall.
How to Reach Eastern Ghats Mountains
Reaching the Eastern Ghats Mountains requires careful planning and choosing the right entry points. Here are some popular destinations and the routes to reach them:
1. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
By Air:
The nearest airport to Araku Valley is Vishakhapatnam Airport (VTZ), located approximately 112 kilometers away. To get to Araku from the airport, use a bus or a taxi.
By Train:
Vishakhapatnam (VSKP) is the major railway station closest to Araku. Several trains connect Vishakhapatnam to major cities in India. From Vishakhapatnam, you can take a scenic train journey to Araku, often referred to as the “Kirandul Passenger.”
By Road:
Araku Valley is well-connected by road, and you can drive from Vishakhapatnam or hire a taxi to reach this picturesque destination. The road journey is incredibly scenic, offering stunning views of the Eastern Ghats.
2. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
By Air:
The nearest airport to Yercaud is Salem Airport (SXV), which is approximately 48 kilometers away. From Salem Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Yercaud.
By Train:
The nearest major railway station to Yercaud is Salem Junction (SA). Salem is well-connected by trains to various cities in India. From Salem, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Yercaud.
By Road:
Yercaud is accessible by road from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore. You can drive to Yercaud or opt for bus services that operate regularly.
3. Gopalpur, Odisha
By Air:
The nearest airport to Gopalpur is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, approximately 176 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gopalpur.
By Train:
Berhampur Railway Station (BAM) is the closest railway station to Gopalpur, located just 16 kilometers away. Trains from various parts of India connect to Berhampur. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Gopalpur.
By Road:
Gopalpur is well-connected by road, and you can drive or take a bus from nearby cities like Bhubaneswar, Berhampur, or Puri.
4. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
By Air:
The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport (IXM), approximately 120 kilometers away. From Madurai Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kodaikanal.
By Train:
The nearest major railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodai Road Railway Station (KQN), which is well-connected to several cities. From Kodai Road, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Kodaikanal.
By Road:
Kodaikanal is accessible by road from major cities like Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai. You can drive to Kodaikanal or take a bus from these cities.
5. Koraput, Odisha
By Air:
The nearest airport to Koraput is Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ), which is approximately 200 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Koraput.
By Train:
Koraput Railway Station (KRPU) is well-connected by trains from various cities in India. From Koraput Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to explore Koraput and the nearby Eastern Ghats.
By Road:
Koraput is accessible by road from major cities like Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, and Raipur. You can drive to Koraput or take a bus from these cities.
Conclusion
The Eastern Ghats Mountains offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. To reach these mountains, you can choose from various transportation options, including air, train, and road. Plan your journey wisely, consider the weather conditions, and get ready to explore the hidden treasures of the Eastern Ghats.
Whether you’re hiking through the lush forests of Araku Valley, savoring the serene beauty of Yercaud, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Gopalpur, exploring the hill station charm of Kodaikanal, or immersing yourself in the tribal culture of Koraput, the Eastern Ghats have something for everyone. So, pack your bags, follow our guide, and embark on an unforgettable journey to the Eastern Ghats Mountains.
