Nestled amidst the lush hills of Eastern Ghats, Kothapalli Waterfalls is a serene and picturesque destination perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and weekend explorers, a hidden gem in Andhra Pradesh. Located in the Visakhapatnam district near Paderu and Lambasingi, this stunning cascade offers a refreshing escape from city life and bustling tourist hubs.
📍 Where is Kothapalli Waterfalls?
Kothapalli Waterfalls is situated in Gangaraju Madugula Mandal near Paderu in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. The waterfall is surrounded by thick forests, coffee plantations and rolling hills — making it one of the most scenic natural attractions in the region.
📊 Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Gangaraju Madugula, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Distance from Lambasingi | ~30–40 km |
| Distance from Araku Valley | ~60 km |
| Distance from Visakhapatnam (Vizag) | ~100–120 km |
| Entry Fee | ₹80 per person / ₹40 for children |
| Timings | ~8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (typical) |
| Best Time to Visit | July — February (post-monsoon) |
🥾 What Makes Kothapalli Waterfalls Special?
📍 Offbeat & Scenic – Unlike popular waterfalls that attract large crowds, Kothapalli remains relatively peaceful and less commercialized, offering a chance to truly connect with nature.
🌿 Lush Green Surroundings – The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and coffee plantations that add to its natural charm.
🛤️ Mild Adventure – Visitors typically walk a short trek from the parking zone — roughly 2 km through forest trails — to reach the base of the falls. The trail itself is a pleasant nature walk.
📸 Photo Opportunities – The cascading streams, rocks, and natural pools make it a visual delight for photography and reels.
👨👩👧👦 Great for Families & Picnics – The open space near the waterfall makes it ideal for picnics or just relaxing with loved ones.
🚗 How to Reach Kothapalli Waterfalls
The best way to visit Kothapalli Waterfalls is by including it in a circular hill trip starting from Visakhapatnam (Vizag). Instead of visiting it as a standalone destination, most travellers combine it with an Araku–Lambasingi tour.
🛣️ Ideal Route:
Vizag → Araku Valley → Lambasingi (via Kothapalli Waterfalls) → Vizag
This route makes your journey scenic, practical, and time-efficient.
You can start early from Vizag and drive toward Araku Valley, enjoying the Eastern Ghats landscape. After exploring Araku, continue toward Kothapalli Waterfalls while heading to Lambasingi. The waterfalls lie conveniently along this extended hill route.
On your return, you can drive back to Vizag from Lambasingi, completing a beautiful hill circuit.
📍 Distance Overview
- Vizag to Araku Valley – approx. 115 km
- Araku to Kothapalli Waterfalls – approx. 60 km
- Kothapalli to Lambasingi – approx. 30–35 km
- Lambasingi to Vizag – approx. 100–110 km
This circular route allows you to:
- Explore waterfalls and hill stations in one trip
- Avoid backtracking
- Enjoy diverse landscapes — valleys, coffee plantations, forest roads and tribal villages
🚌 Transport Options
- Self-drive car or bike (most convenient)
- Private taxi from Vizag
- Local buses available up to Paderu; from there you may need local transport
If you’re planning a 2–3 day Araku-Lambasingi itinerary, this route is highly recommended. It balances scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation without rushing.
🍓 Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
The best time to visit Kothapalli Waterfalls is from July to February:
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Water flows stronger and greenery is lush (watch out for slippery rocks).
- Post-Monsoon & Winter (Oct–Feb): Cool weather, pleasant conditions and great for day trips.
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Water flow reduces and temperatures rise — still visitable but less dramatic.
🧭 Tips for Travellers
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes for the trek from parking to the falls.
✔️ Carry water, light snacks, sunscreen and insect repellent.
✔️ Respect nature — avoid littering and preserve the peaceful vibe.
✔️ Early morning visits reduce crowd and give better lighting for photography.
📍 Nearby Attractions You Can Explore
If you’re planning a full itinerary around your trip to Kothapalli Waterfalls, consider adding these nearby spots:
🏞️ Araku Valley
A beautiful hill station known for its coffee plantations and cool weather.
🌸 Lambasingi
Often called the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh, Lambasingi is famous for its misty landscapes and cool climate.
🥾 Chaparai Waterfalls
Another scenic waterfall near Araku worth visiting as part of the same trip.
📌 Final Thoughts
Kothapalli Waterfalls is a hidden treasure in Andhra Pradesh that appeals to travellers looking for a tranquil, nature-filled escape. With lush surroundings, a mild trekking experience, and peaceful vibes, it’s perfect for a weekend day trip or part of a longer Araku adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, don’t miss this refreshing spot on your Visakhapatnam itinerary.
