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The
third largest state in India - Andhra Pradesh can be visualised as a beautiful
state interspersed with its exotic crafts and lively religious festivals;
a glorious past and mouth watering delicacies; not to forget the charming
people and the mother tongue Telugu- all that make lasting impressions
of the state on the visitor.
A
state rich in natural resources, cultural heritage, charming countryside,
watered by 34 rivers Andhra Pradesh commands a 1000 km. coastline and
enjoys a strategic location too. Most of it stands on the high arid Deccan
Plateau, sloping down to the low-lying coastal region to the east where
the Godavari and Krishna meet the Bay of Bengal and is known as the 'Rice
Granary of India'.
Rocks,
forests, green fields, lakes and golden beaches washed by the sea make
Andhra Pradesh a fascinating state and one that is ideally suited for
wildlife. There are about 20 notified sanctuaries in the state and each
of them is home to a variety of rare animal species such as the Great
Indian Bustard, Nilgai, etc.
The
sky-scrapers of the state symbolise the architectural genius styles, replete
with astonishing sculpture and splendid edifices left behind by several
dynasties. Hyderabad, the state capital, is a historic city, and is famous
as the former seat of the wealthy Nizams. Charminar, Salar Jung Museum
and the mighty Golconda Fort are some of the famous heritage spots in
the city.
Apart
from Kuchipudi, a classical dance form that traces its roots in Andhra,
the state is also well known for its range of handloom and handicraft
products. This includes lacquer toys, Anakapalli articles, Nirmal
(painted
pottery), Bidri(lead inlaid black metal trinklets), palm and slate articles,
as well as Gadhwal, Pochampalli and Dharmavaram silk saris.
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