The Borra Caves in the Ananthagiri hills are among the largest and deepest cave systems in India. Inside you walk through huge chambers of limestone stalactites and stalagmites that formed over an enormous span of time. They're about 90 km from Visakhapatnam on the road to Araku, which makes them one of the best day rides from the city.
The ride at a glance
- Distance: about 90 km one way from Vizag
- Riding time: around 3 hours one way
- Road: city and highway roads, then the ghat section into the Ananthagiri hills
- Best season: October to February for cool, dry riding; the monsoon makes the hills green but the roads slippery
About the caves
The caves were documented in 1807 by William King George of the Geological Survey of India. They go down roughly 80 metres, and the Gosthani river flows out of the area. Inside, a lit path with steps takes you past rock formations that locals have named after shapes they resemble, including a formation worshipped as a Shiva lingam.
The caves are generally open from about 10 AM to 5 PM. There's an entry ticket, and camera charges may apply. Timings and fees change, so check at the counter or with local tourism before you plan around them.
How to plan the day
Borra works well two ways:
- As a day trip on its own. Leave Vizag in the early morning, reach by opening time, explore for an hour or two and ride back in daylight.
- As part of an Araku ride. Borra is on the way, so it's easy to combine with Galikonda viewpoint and Araku Valley. See our Vizag to Araku ride guide. For both in one day, start very early, or split it over two days.
Katiki Waterfalls are close to Borra too; the last stretch is usually done by local jeep or on foot rather than on a rental bike.
Which bike should you take?
For the ghat climb, a Royal Enfield Hunter 350 or Classic 350 or a Bajaj Pulsar is comfortable. A scooter manages if you ride patiently, but a geared bike makes the hills much easier, especially with a pillion.
Tips for the visit
- Wear shoes with grip. Steps inside the caves can be damp and slippery.
- Carry some cash for tickets, parking and food; card and UPI don't always work in the hills.
- Fuel up before the ghat and keep enough for the return.
- Plan to ride back before dark. The ghat bends are much harder at night.
- Keep your licence and ID with you, and wear the free helmet that comes with your rental.
Want to ride to Borra? Send us your date and we'll suggest the right bike for your plan. Pickup is from our store near the Railway New Colony arch.
