About Andhra Pradesh


History

Centuries ago, Andhra Pradesh was a major Buddhist centre and part of Emperor Ashoka's sprawling kingdom. Not surprisingly, traces of early Buddhist influence are still visible in several places in and around the state. After the death of Emperor Ashoka, the successive dynasties from the Ikshvakus, Pallavas, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagaram kings, Qutb Shahis, Mughals and the Asaf Jahis, have contributed significantly to the State's rich cultural tapestry and have left behind a heritage studded with spectacular monuments, temples, mosques, palaces all vibrant with arts, crafts, dance and literature.


Society, Art and Culture

Like the country, like the state. The diversity that is seen in the whole country can be seen in the Andhra Pradesh state alone. Over 85% of the population of Andhra Pradesh speak Telugu. Tamil is widely spoken in the extreme south region, and on the border of Karnataka there are Kannada speakers also. In Hyderabad there are large numbers of Urdu speakers who make up about 7% of its population.

The number of festivals celebrated in the state reflect the existence of the number of  customs and traditions. As the home of rich folk tradition, Andhra Pradesh offers a variety of performing arts unique to its culture. Kuchipudi is the classical dance form of Andhra Pradesh. Lacquer toys, Anakapalli articles, Nirmal painted pottery, Bidri-lead inlaid black metal trinklets, palm and slate articles, as well as Gadhwal, Pochampalli and Dharmvaram silk saris are some of the amazing handlooms and handicrafts the state is renowned for.

Cuisine of Andhra Pradesh has a distinct flavor and is relished by many epicureans. Rice is the staple food and chillies dominate the native taste. The ubiquitous Andhra pickle, spicy in taste and flavor is the most appetising dish. Even Gongura chutneys enhance the basic flavor of a meal. Papads roasted or fried are an often-preferred addition. To round off a sumptuous lunch, kheers, a variety of sweets and paans are veritable specialties. 


Economy and Infrastructure

Agriculture is the most important sector of Andhra Pradesh's economy. About 70 percent of the population works in agriculture, and the state is one of India's main rice-producing areas. The main crops are rice, maize, millets, pulses, castor, tobacco, cotton, sugarcane, groundnut and banana. Some of the major industries in the state are machine tools, synthetic drugs, pharmaceuticals, heavy electrical machinery, ships, fertilizers, electronic equipment, aeronautical parts, cement and cement products, chemicals, asbestos, glass and watches. Important minerals found in the state are copper ore, manganese, mica, coal and limestone. Andhra Pradesh has an extensive road and rail network, a major port in Vishakhapatnam, minor ports in several other cities, and airports at Hyderabad, Tirupathi, Vijayawada, and Vishakhapatnam.


Tourist Information

Check the official tourism website http://www.aptourism.in