Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is situated on the Deccan (south) plateau, which just happens to be the oldest geological formation in India. The Godavari and Krishna rivers cut their way through this area from the Bay of Bengal.

Hi tech centres are appearing rapidly in Hyderabad and in turn the Andhra Pradesh state is promoting it as the number one state.

The history of this state dates back to 1000BC. In the 3rd century BC, the Andhras embrased Budhism and built huge edifices in it's honour. You will find lots of Dravidian style architecture especially along the coast line. By the 16th century Qutb Shahi dynasty ruled with it's Islamic buildings.

The twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad make up the capital of Andhra Pradesh. There is both Hindu and Islamic influences within the city. It is a busy bustling place of narrow roads and ancient laneways.

Dont's:
When visiting mosques or temples shorts or sleeveless tops are not to be worn.
Smoking and the holding of hands, the touching of carvings or statues and the touching of someone's head is not permitted. Removal of shoes prior to entry. These apply to both men and women. In some mosques you will be required to cover your head.

Never point the soles of your feet to another person or statue.

The right hand should be used for all occassions. The left is considered dirty.

When swimming nudity is not allowed, even in remote areas. Women should wear a sarong if they are in public view.

Some animals are considered sacred, please check with local authorities.

Extreme climate, warm inland from April to mid-June falling to almost freezing at night in winter, between November and February. Summers are hot with monsoons between June and September. The climate is pleasant between October and March, blast-furnace hot between April and June, and dripping with humidity between July and September.

Required clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens in summer with warmer clothes in winter and on cooler evenings. Waterproofing is essential during monsoons. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer between June and September.