Train Journey Always Fun

After threatening to pull the chain, water tanks for the wash rooms in a 2nd class coach were filled up at Vizag railway station. Neat and clean otherwise, people avoid 2nd class rail travel because of smelly wash rooms on-board. Ghumakkad travelled by the 'royal' class from Vizag to Araku valley recently. It was part of a two-day package by AP Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). Though APTDC gave a choice of AC/non-AC rooms at their resort in Araku, there was no choice for AC Chair car. All tourists were made to travel by 2nd class reserved compartment. Though after a while, local passengers also boarded the coach.

Despite the crowd and the rattling noise of rail tracks, it was an enjoyble journey. Monsoon clouds and green valleys added to the 'open air' feel and charm of a 2nd class coach. Pictures for you.

Araku is a nice getaway from Vizag. One-day tiring travel or two-days leisurely outing-- take your call. Neeta and I took the two-day plan with APTDC. Rs 5500/- for both of us for AC Deluxe room and all meals included- Vizag to Vizag. Value for money!

We travelled by overnight train from Hyderabad to Vizag. As the day dawned, we entered the coastal city of Vizag.

Indian Navy had organised International Fleet Review in Feb-2016 in Vizag. Not only the Naval base but the entire city of Vizag got a facelift. Vizag railway station below.

Another Naval motivational display is being erected at RK beach. It is a 'live' Tu-142M aircraft which saw service in the Navy for many years.

Here is a short 40-second video clip shot in the moving train showing the valley.

Vizag-Araku train is not a narrow gauge train as most hill railways are. Read on.

 Get a feel of the tunnel ride in this 50-second video shot by Ghumakkad.

 Ghumakkad had posted two recent stories on tourist spots near Araku. Just in case you missed browsing it, here are the links:
Beauty of Darkness- Borra Caves
Chaparai Water Cascade

Where to stay, what more to see in Araku and more importantly what to eat-- coming up next.

Thanks for browsing.

    -  Harsh-the-Ghumakkad/21st Sep 2017

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