Indian
States
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra
Pradesh comprises of fertile coastal plains, semi arid
Deccan plateau and the lofty hillscapes of the Eastern Ghats.
Some of the incredible sights of Andhra Pradesh
are the world's tallest masonry dam, million year old caves.
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.
Andhra
Pradesh, 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 od 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.
State
Capital: Hyderabad
Population (thousands in 1991): 66,508
Area (thousand sq. km): 275
Ratio of urban population (1991): 26.9
Net Domestic Product (Rs. million at current prices in 1992-93):
397,040
Per Capita Income: 5,802
Principal Languages: Telugu and Urdu