Known as India’s eighth largest state, Andhra Pradesh, is situated along the country’s south-eastern coast. However, in 2014, a new state was created, Telangana, which was previously a part of Andhra Pradesh. Today, Hyderabad, the capital of both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, is an excellent reason to visit this region. A vast wealth of heritage, old-world charm, and contemporary influences make it a fun vacation destination. In Hyderabad, you could find forts and cobbled streets, which tell the tales of bygone eras;and on the other hand there are newer districts, which house classy restaurants, trendy bars, and glitzy boutiques. The two states house a plethora of attractions, which range from medieval temples to ancient Buddhist sites. However, the true energy of Andhra Pradesh can be experienced during one of its many festivals that occur through the year. Here are a few festivals you can experience first-hand, when you visit this state. If you’re staying in a hotel in Hyderabad, then you might have to travel a little to reach Andhra Pradesh, but it’s worth it!

Maha Shivratri

The festival of Maha Shivratri is celebrated all over India, but in Andhra Pradesh, it is celebrated mainly in a small region called Kalahasti. In Kalahasti, many devotees flock to the Sri Kalahasteshwara Temple to celebrate the wonderful occasion and visit the temple. Many visitors also observe a strict fast throughout the day, and then proceed to worship the Shiv Ling within the temple all night. The tradition includes washing the Shiv Ling every three hours that involves milk, curd, honey, and water.
 
Makara Sankranti

Sankranti, or Makara Sankranti, as it is referred to in Andhra Pradesh, is a festival that celebrates the beginning of the harvest season in India. In Andhra Pradesh, the festival is celebrated for three days, during which the entire state comes together to rejoice. Houses are decorated and sweetmeats are distributed among family and friends. The festival is spread over three days, which are Bhogi Panduga, Pedda Panduga, and Kanuma Panduga.This festival generally occurs in the month of January, around the 14thof the month.

Ugadi

The Ugadi festival is an important festival to Andhra Pradesh, which marks the beginning of the Hindu Lunar calendar. Ugadi symbolizes a day of new beginnings, joy, hope, and happiness, in the hope that all the negativity of the last year would be overshadowed. The festival occurs during the months of March or April.