Things To Do
in Gurlapeta

Gurlapeta is a small coastal town in India blessed with a laid-back vibe and a strong fishing heritage. Its riverside landscapes, bustling markets, and warm, welcoming locals make it an authentic taste of rural seaboard life. The town sits along the Bay of Bengal, where coconut trees sway and sunrise colors reflect on calm waters.

Visitors come for seafood, easy coastal walks, and a glimpse into traditional village rhythms.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Gurlapeta
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery, where you can savor dishes like idli and dosa. After fueling up, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant markets, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the bustling city. Don't forget to visit the nearby temple, where you can witness the local community's morning rituals.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the stunning Gurlapeta Lake for a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature. Rent a boat for a leisurely ride and enjoy the scenic views while soaking up the sun. As the day progresses, explore nearby art galleries showcasing local talent and crafts.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to the heart of the town and indulge in a sumptuous dinner featuring regional cuisine. You may also want to catch a cultural performance at a local venue, experiencing the traditional music and dance that Gurlapeta is known for. End your day with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Nature Trekking
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a guided trek in the surrounding hills. The paths offer breathtaking views and opportunities to encounter diverse flora and fauna unique to the region. Breathe in the fresh air as you hike, and keep your camera ready for stunning photo ops.

afternoon
:

After a rewarding trek, treat yourself to a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valleys. Spend the afternoon relaxing amidst nature, sketching or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings. As the sun begins to dip, embark on a nature walk to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

evening
:

Return to Gurlapeta and unwind at a charming café that offers stunning sunset views. Savor a cup of local chai while relishing the peaceful atmosphere of the evening. You can also visit a local market for souvenirs or handmade crafts to remember your adventure.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🍛Three-course meal for two (mid-range)$12-25
🚕Short taxi ride$3-6
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-30
Coffee/tea at cafe$1-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Coastal scenery and seafood culture
  • Friendly locals and slower-paced travel
  • Rich local markets and authentic village life
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Seasonal travel can be affected by monsoons
  • Some areas may have uneven sidewalks and basic amenities
  • "Namaskar" - Hello
  • "Dhanyabaad" - Thank you
  • "Kemiti achhanti?" - How are you?
  • "Dayaa kari sahayata karibe" - Please help me
  • "Mane upakara karibe" - Could you guide me?

Places to Visit in Gurlapeta

Visit one of these nice places.

Gurlapeta Beach Sunrise

Golden hour along the coast with fishing boats and reflections on tranquil water.

Harbor Fishermen’s Wharf

Colorful boats, nets, and market activity—great for candid, community photography.

Old Town Temple Complex

Carved stone, courtyards, and atmospheric lighting for architectural shots.

Riverfront Promenade

Locals, boats, and greenery along the river provide daily-life photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gurlapeta

The local cuisine blends coastal seafood, rice-based staples, and coconut flavors, with influences from Odia and nearby Telugu culinary traditions. Fresh fish and prawns are central, often prepared as curries, fry, or steamed preparations. Rice is a staple served with a variety of vegetable and dal dishes, plus tangy chutneys and pickle additions. Expect hearty, home-style meals that emphasize seasonal produce and seafood freshness.

Gurlapeta Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Machha Bhaja (Fried Fish)

Freshly caught fish fried with regional spices, commonly found at coastal shacks and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Pakhala Bhata

Fermented rice served with water and sides like fried lentils, vegetables, and pickles; especially popular in hot weather.

Dalma

A rustic Odia lentil curry with vegetables and aromatic asafoetida, typically served with rice.

Chhena Poda

A baked cottage cheese dessert with caramelized edges, a regional sweet treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gurlapeta Coastal Market

Harbor-side stalls offering fresh fish, prawns, coconuts, and seasonal produce; try fish fry and crushed coconut preparations.

Street Food Alleys

Roadside snacks such as chakuli pitha, sesame laddus, spicy snacks, and chai.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gurlapeta has a tropical monsoon climate with hot summers, a pronounced monsoon season, and mild winters. Humidity is typically high, and coastal weather can shift quickly during the monsoon.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Temple Etiquette

Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and speak softly. Avoid touching religious artifacts unless permitted.

Photography Etiquette

Ask permission before photographing people; respect privacy in homes and private spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall safety is good in this rural coastal town. Practice standard travel precautions: guard belongings in crowded markets, avoid isolated beaches after dark, stay informed about sea conditions, and use reputable transportation.

Tipping in Gurlapeta

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Many restaurants include a service charge; if not, 5-10% is a common tip. Small tips to drivers and guides are appreciated but not obligatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; some places accept cards or mobile wallets. Carry small denomination notes for street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with temperatures often above 35°C; stay hydrated, seek shade, wear lightweight clothing and sunscreen.

Monsoon

Heavy rainfall from June to September; streets can be slippery; carry rain gear and plan outdoor activities around tides and weather forecasts.

Winter

Milder and more comfortable, typically around 20-25°C; ideal for outdoor exploration and longer walks.

Nightlife Guide

Gurlapeta at Night

The nightlife in Gurlapeta is low-key, with local markets and seaside cafes that stay open later in the evening. There are no large clubs; instead, you’ll find casual spots offering light music, drinks, and conversations, often with a scenic view of the coast.

Hiking in Gurlapeta

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Araku Valley Trails

Hilly trails through coffee plantations and forested slopes; a well-known escape into the Eastern Ghats.

Eastern Ghats Foothill Paths

Rugged routes offering panoramic views and lush scenery in the surrounding hills.

Airports

How to reach Gurlapeta by plane.

Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ)

Major gateway for the north coastal Andhra region; direct connections to several Indian cities and limited international routes.

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI)

Bhubaneswar’s airport; serves as a regional hub with broader domestic connections.

Rajahmundry Airport (RJA)

Smaller regional airport serving nearby districts with some domestic connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gurlapeta’s town center is walkable with compact streets; sidewalks may be uneven in places and some attractions are best reached by short taxi or rickshaw rides.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Fisherfolk

A prominent coastal community involved in fishing and seafood processing.

Agricultural Communities

Rural families primarily growing rice, vegetables, and coconuts.

Scheduled Castes and Tribes

Diverse local groups contributing to the cultural tapestry of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The most popular sport across the region, played in parks and streets.

Football (Soccer)

Casual matches are common on beaches and community grounds.

Badminton

Widely played in homes, clubs, and community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in the town, with occasional congestion near markets and during festival periods. Auto-rickshaws and buses provide local transport; plan longer trips accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gurlapeta.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose from dal and vegetable curries; request no fish or meat; many places offer paneer or tofu options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available locally, with more comprehensive care in larger nearby towns and cities (e.g., Visakhapatnam or Bhubaneswar). Carry essential medications and travel insurance.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide