Andhra Pradesh, an southern Indian state, bordered on the south by Tamil Nâdu
state, on the west by Karnâtaka state, on the north and northwest by Mahârâshtra
state, on the northeast by Madhya Pradesh and Orissa states, and on the east by
the Bay of Bengal. Andhra Pradesh has an area of 275,045 sq km. Andhra Pradesh is the fifth largest
state in India and it forms the major link between the north and the south of
India. It is the biggest and most populous state in the south of India. It is
considered the rice bowl of India. The state is crisscrossed by two major
rivers, the Godavari and Krishna.
Andhra Pradesh can be broadly divided into three regions, namely Coastal
Andhra, Telangana and Rayalaseema. It has 23 local administrative districts.
Hyderabad is the state capital and largest city. The other main cities are
Visakhapatnam (India's fourth largest port), Vijayawada, and Guntur.
Andhra
Pradesh sometimes appears as a dry area, both that does not have to offer that
many sights for travellers. However, if you set off for the capital of the state
Hyderabad, you’ll most definitely be rewarded. The city has a dualistic
character and whether you visit markets and shops, sights or public buildings,
you’ll always face the dualistic melange of Hindu culture on the one hand and
Muslim culture on the other hand.
Andhra Pradesh is endowed with a variety
of physiographic features ranging from high hills, undulating plains to a
coastal deltaic environment.
This is the land that gave the world such forms of art as kalamkari, dance
such as kuchipudi,toys such as kondapalli and jewellery such as Nizam's . From
the ancient to the mordern. from an old culture to a new civilization, the state
has them al. people from all parts of country and evern from across the shores
have made this their world.
The area is also known because of its nomadic tribes, the Lambanis and
Banjaras. These tribes can be spotted all around the area and are especially
known for their brightly coloured skirts and the silver jewellery they sell.
This fits in with the idea of Andhra Pradesh as the melting pot of various
handicrafts. The craftsmen of Andhra have contributed greatly. Take for instance
the Kalamkari vegetable dyed textiles, the Pochamapalli silks and the Hyderabad
pearls. Besides that, it’s a must to see a performance of ‘Kuchipudi’, the
classical dance form originating from the state. It has a vigorous choreography
and is somewhat akin to Bharatanatyam.
And when you want to catch your breath again after a long day of travelling,
you’ve hit the right area. Andhra Pradesh offers a rich palate to the gourmet.
Hyderabadi Muslims, fastidious in their culinary art, specialise in authentic
recipes that have survived throughout centuries. Their biryanis, kababs and
chicken delicacies bring the water to your mouth.