Things To Do
in Chicacole

Chicacole, also known as Srikakulam, is a vibrant town located in the northeastern part of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and beautiful natural landscapes. The town boasts a mix of traditional and modern influences, making it an interesting destination for travelers.

Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, Chicacole offers a peaceful getaway with a variety of activities for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Chicacole
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the famous Narasimha Swamy Temple, a sacred site that attracts devotees from all over. After exploring the temple, enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Srikakulam Fort, a historical site with stunning architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Spend some time at the local market, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

End the day with a stroll along the beach at Bheemili, where you can enjoy the sunset and indulge in some local seafood snacks.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hike at the nearby Eastern Ghats, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy breathtaking views of the hills and valleys.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art galleries and museums to learn about the history and culture of the region. Don't forget to try some local sweets like 'Kaja' at a nearby sweet shop.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a few cafes and enjoying live music or cultural performances that showcase traditional Indian dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3
🛒Grocery Shopping for a Week$20
🚍Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Room$15
🍦Ice Cream Cone$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine with diverse flavors.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to major cities.
  • Public transport can be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Hindi speakers.
  • "Namaskaram" - Hello
  • "Dhanyavadalu" - Thank you
  • "Naku teliyadu" - I don't understand
  • "Ekkada?" - Where?
  • "Mīru sāyāgamā?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Chicacole

Visit one of these nice places.

Narasimha Swamy Temple

Capture the intricate carvings and architecture of this sacred site.

Srikakulam Fort

A historic fort offering panoramic views, ideal for landscape photography.

Bheemili Beach

A serene beach with golden sands and sunsets that make for stunning photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chicacole

Chicacole is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse array of flavors and culinary traditions. From spicy curries to delectable sweets, the local cuisine reflects the richness of Andhra Pradesh's gastronomic landscape.

Chicacole Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pesarattu

A green gram dosa served with ginger chutney, perfect for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Gongura Pachadi

A tangy chutney made from sorrel leaves, commonly served with rice.

Pulihora

A tamarind rice dish flavored with spices, popular for picnics and festivals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chicacole Street Food Market

A bustling market where you can enjoy local street food like vada pav and samosas.

Srikakulam Bazaar

An open-air market known for fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chicacole experiences a tropical climate, with three main seasons: a hot summer, a rainy monsoon, and a mild winter. Summer lasts from March to June, with high humidity and temperatures often exceeding 35°C. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rains, while autumn and winter, from October to February, offer cooler and pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders in the community.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chicacole is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. If you encounter any issues, local police are helpful and can assist you.

Tipping in Chicacole

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is common but not mandatory. A tip of around 10% is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments through apps like Paytm and UPI are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (March to June)

Expect hot and humid weather, with temperatures soaring above 35°C. Stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Monsoon (July to September)

Heavy rainfall is common during this season. It's best to carry an umbrella and wear waterproof shoes.

Autumn (October to November)

The weather becomes pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February)

Cooler temperatures with lows around 15°C. It’s a good time for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Chicacole at Night

Chicacole offers a modest nightlife scene, primarily focused around local cafes and eateries. Many cafes feature live music or cultural performances, showcasing traditional Indian dance. While the nightlife may not be as vibrant as in larger cities, it provides a unique experience of local culture and community gatherings.

Hiking in Chicacole

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kothapalem Hills Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the valleys and lush greenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Chintapalli Forest Trail

An adventurous hike through dense forests, showcasing diverse wildlife and flora native to the Eastern Ghats.

Airports

How to reach Chicacole by plane.

Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ)

Located about 110 km from Chicacole, this airport offers domestic flights to major Indian cities and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chicacole is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are available but may vary in condition. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and stay aware of traffic, as vehicles can be unpredictable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Telugu-speaking Population

The majority of the population speaks Telugu, reflecting the cultural and linguistic heritage of Andhra Pradesh.

Agricultural Community

Many residents are involved in agriculture, with rice and various fruits being significant crops in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in the region, with many locals participating in street matches and community leagues.

Kabbadi

A traditional Indian sport that is widely followed and played in local tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chicacole can be moderate, with bustling streets especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and auto-rickshaws, which are widely used for getting around. While the town is small enough to navigate on foot, be cautious of vehicles and pedestrians sharing the road.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chicacole.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants provide a variety of vegetarian dishes, making it easy for vegetarians to find suitable meals.

Spicy Food Caution

Dishes can be quite spicy; it's advisable to ask for milder options if you have a low tolerance for spice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Chicacole include several clinics and a district hospital. While basic medical services are available, it is recommended for travelers to carry essential medications and consider having health insurance for emergencies. For serious health issues, larger hospitals in nearby cities like Visakhapatnam may be necessary.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide