TheeraYatra

Quick Overview

Best Time to Visit: November to February
Weather: Hot coastal summers, moderate winters, heavy monsoon rains
Budget: ₹1,500–₹7,000/day

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

Nearest Airport: Vijayawada Airport (~120 km)
By Train: Chirala Railway Station
By Road: Well‑connected via state and national highways; APSRTC buses and private taxis available from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and surrounding towns

Where to Stay?

• Beachside resorts near Vodarevu and Ramapuram beaches: panoramic views, mid‑range pricing
• Town centre lodging: budget hotels and homestays catering to handloom market shoppers and local visitors

Packing List

• Lightweight cotton clothing
• Comfortable walking sandals or shoes
• Umbrella or rain jacket (monsoon season)
• Sun‑protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle

Top Places to Visit

• Vodarevu Beach
  A palm‑fringed, quiet beach about 6 km from town; ideal for walks, boat rides and local snacks
• Ramapuram Beach
  Clean and tranquil shore 18 km from town; known for peaceful sunrises and fewer crowds
• Sri Veera Raghava Swamy Temple
  Reputed 8th‑century Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, visited for its architecture and serenity
• St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
  Built circa 1916–1961, expansive colonial‑era church valued for its calm ambience
• Chirala Market (Handloom Hub)
  One of India’s major handloom centres—cotton dhotis, zari sarees, home textiles made locally and exported
• Sairamakrishna Cashews
  Renowned cashew wholesaler—you can buy fresh local produce and snacks

Must-Try Experiences

• Beachfront Relaxation & Sunset Views
  Spend evenings at Vodarevu or Ramapuram beaches, watching waves and golden skies
• Handloom Shopping
  Explore local weavers and markets for affordable, high‑quality fabrics
• Local Drink at Munta Vari Center
  Try the pink cashew‑nut “Katori” (Katrigounlu) drink from street vendors in Kotla Bazar
• Nature Walks & Bird-Watching
  Early mornings near the beaches often reveal local birdlife and coastal greenery
• Seafood & Coastal Food Sampling
  Fresh fish thalis, snacks and desserts available at local kiosks and eateries

Local Cuisine

• Breakfast: Upma, Vada, Filter Coffee
• Lunch: Fresh fish thali, coastal curries, vegetarian rice plates
• Snacks: Katrigounlu (local cashew drink), panipuri at beach carts, roasted cashews

Culture & Local Life

Chirala—also known historically as Ksheera Puri or Mini Bombay—is steeped in handloom heritage. The town’s fabrics, cashews, and quiet beaches reveal a peaceful coastal lifestyle. Local festivals revolve around temple rituals and Christian events. Markets hum with textile trade, while beachside life unfolds slower and more meditative than in urban centres

Local Insights

• Languages: Telugu (official), Hindi and English widely understood
• Getting Around: Auto rickshaws, rental bikes or cars, and occasional local buses
• Safety Tips: Beaches are safe during the day; avoid stray litter from vendors, stay alert in crowds, and secure valuables in transit

Enjoy Your Yatra!