Exploring Vijayawada: A Treasure Trove of Tourist Spots

Vijayawada, a bustling city in Andhra Pradesh, is a blend of rich history, culture, and mesmerizing landscapes. It's the perfect spot for travelers looking to soak in some unique experiences. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, Vijayawada has something to offer everyone.

Indrakeeladri Hill: A Sacred Retreat

Ever thought about climbing a hill that’s not just a hill but also a journey into spirituality? Indrakeeladri Hill is home to the famous Kanaka Durga Temple. This ancient temple perched on the hill top is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. The lush greenery around and the breathtaking views from the top make the climb worth it. Plus, the night view of the city from here is nothing short of magical.

Prakasam Barrage: A Marvel of Engineering

If you're in the mood for some stunning riverside views, the Prakasam Barrage should be on your list. Stretching across the Krishna River, this dam not only plays a crucial role in irrigation but also serves as a wonderful spot to unwind. Imagine sitting by the riverbank, with the gentle flow of water serenading your thoughts. The lights twinkling on the water at night create a picturesque scene that's hard to forget.

The Undavalli Caves: A Peek into History

Ever wanted to explore ancient caves that whisper stories from the past? The Undavalli Caves, carved out of solid rock, date back to the 4th to 5th century. They reveal intricate designs and sculptures that reflect the artistry of that era. Walking through these caves feels like walking through a time machine. It’s not just a visit; it’s an experience that takes you back to the roots of Indian heritage.

Bhavani Island: An Escape from the City Buzz

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life? Bhavani Island, nestled in the Krishna River, offers a serene getaway. It's a slice of paradise for nature lovers. You can enjoy boat rides, picnics, and beautiful sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. This island is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a peaceful retreat.

Victoria Museum: A Cultural Journey

For those intrigued by history and art, the Victoria Museum is a must-visit. It houses a variety of artifacts, from ancient coins to stunning sculptures. Each exhibit tells a story, and wandering through the halls feels like stepping into a lively narrative of history. The museum not only educates but also inspires curiosity about the region's rich cultural tapestry.

Mangalagiri: The Hill of Auspiciousness

Mangalagiri, meaning "the hill of auspiciousness," is another gem near Vijayawada. The Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple here is famous for its unique practice of offering jaggery water. Picture yourself climbing to the temple and being surrounded by picturesque landscapes and spiritual energy. This place radiates positivity, making you feel rejuvenated.

Kanaka Durga Temple: A Spiritual Marvel

No visit to Vijayawada would be complete without a stop at the Kanaka Durga Temple. Situated on the Indrakeeladri hills, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is a major pilgrimage site. The architecture is captivating, and the divine ambiance draws people from all walks of life. Witnessing the rituals and the heartfelt prayers here fills you with an unexplainable peace.

Conclusion: A City Worth Exploring

Vijayawada is not just a city; it's an experience that combines spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Each spot tells its own tale and invites travelers to connect with the essence of life. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonderful tourist places that Vijayawada has to offer. It's time to create your own memorable adventures in this vibrant city!

Vijayawada, the ‘City of Victory’ is set amidst scenic surroundings on the banks of river Krishna and is picturesquely ringed by beautiful hills.  This ‘Cultural Capital’ of Andhra Pradesh is an important historical, cultural, political, pilgrim, education and commercial centre. Situated on the banks of the river Krishna  It was an important Buddhist centre and the remains of the Stupas can be seen even today.  The Kanakadurga temple on the top of the hill, Hazrat Balmosque and the Prakasam barrage are some of the tourist attraction.

About Vijayawada City

About Vijayawada city is about 270km from Hyderabad.  Situated on the banks of river Krishna on the main route from Chennai to Kolkata and Delhi, it has an interesting history.  The name is derived from the ancient name Vijayavatika.  A city which is 2000 years old and is named after the loal goddess Kanaka Durga, popularly called as Vijaya.  The town is ringed by many hillocks.  according to legend, the Mahabharata hero Arjuna is associated with one of the hills called Indrakila.  A Shiva temple dedicated to Malleshwara and the Durga temple are situated on this hill.  It is said that Sri Chakra has been installed at the Devi temple.  A fine road takes the visitor from the bottom to the shrine above the hill.  The Krishna Barrage on the outskirts is an excellent picnic spot providing boating facilities also in the river.

Places to Visit in Vijayawada

Vijayawada abounds in caves and temples around the place.  Among the famous ones are the Mogalarajapuram cave temple, Akkanna Madanna temple and Undavalli caves.  The Ardha Narishwara Muruthy idol in the first cave is said to be only one of its kind in South India.  The Hazratbal mosque has a sacred relic of the Prophet Mohammad and is a famous shrine for the Muslims.

Kanaka Durga Temple

The sacred shrine perched atop the Indrakila Hill by the River Krishna is an icon of Vijayawada.  It is dedicated to Goddess Kanaka or the golden deity, who is believed to be the protector of Vijayawada.  The shrine abounds in numerous interesting legends and is a must visit site.  The dasara festival (September / October) celebrated here is one of the most popular events of Vijayawada.  The Indrakila hill is also dotted with several rock-cut temples.

The Gandhi Hill (Orr Hill)

Perched atop this hill is the first Gandhi Memorial with seven stupas in the country.  The impressive monument is 15.8m high and is the tallest structure in the city.  It also houses a library and a planetarium.  A sound and light show featuring Mahatma Gandhi’s life is organised here.

Udavalli Caves

Vijayawada is about 6km from Vijayawada.  Surrounded by verdant trees and mini forest, this group of cave s has become famous as a popular picnic spot.  This is a group of four storeyed caves rising to a height of about 20m, each entrance leading to another.  The first is dedicated to Ananthapadmanabha Swamy, having a reposing Vishnu idol, about 6m long. A masterpiece of sculpture, it looks as if it has been recently brought from the chisel of the sculptor. Originally, these caves appear to be of Buddhist origin is dedication.  Regular buses operate to this picnic site.

St. Mary’s Church, Gunadala

The magnificent church is set on a hillock on the eastern side of the city.

Prakasam Barrage

This gigantic engineering marvel built across the river Krishna is the pride of Vijayawada.  The barrage creates a panoramic lake and three canals from it flows through the city giving Vijayawada its venetian looks.

Rajiv Gandhi Park

This well-laid out park has an impressive horticultural network.  There is also a mini zoo and a musical water fountain.

Victoria Museum

It has a rich collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, idols weapons, cutlery and ancient inscriptions.

Hazrat Bal Mosque

It houses a holy relic of the Prophet Mohammed, which is displayed once a year.

Tourist Places Near Vijayawada

Amaravati (60km)

The major Buddhist pilgrim centre on the banks of river Krishna was the former capital of the Stvahanas and one of the four important places of Buddhist worship in the country.  The 2000 years old Mahastupa, locally known as Deepaladinne or ‘Hillock of Lamps’ is the largest stupa in India, measuring 36.5m wide and 16.5m high. Besides this, only few scattered ruins is all that remains of the once grand city.  A small replica of the Mahastupa can be seen at the nearby museum.  The Amareswara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is another famous holy site.

Mangalagiri (12km)

It is famous for the sacred shrine of Lord Narasimha (Vishnu) perched atop a hill.  The mouth of the unique idol of the presiding deity accepts half the quantity of Panakam (jiggery dissolved in water) offered by devotees, irrespective of the quantity offered.

Hinkar Thirtha

The newly built shrine at Mangalagiri is the biggest Jain temple of the region.  The magnificent shrine is noted for great artistic work.

Machilipatnam (70km)

This sea-side township was an important trading post.  It is also the birth place of Kalamkari art of textile printing.  The Maginapudi beach near the town is simply irresistible and is very safe for bathing.  Thousands of pilgrims take a holy dip in the sea during Magha Poornima.  The Panduranga Swamy temple here is a famous Hindu pilgrim centre.

Mogalarajapuram

The Mogalarajapuram (3km) cave temples of the 5th century.  Undevilli in Guntur district, beautiful cave.  Managlagiri 12km south of Vijayawada is famous for Narasimha (Vishnu) temple.  Hindus who visit this temple believe that the Lord accepts only half of the Paanaka (Jaggery water) offered to him.

Kuchipudi

Kuchipudi is located on  60km away from Vijayawada, Kuchipudi is known as the birth place of the pure classical dance from of Kuchipudi  Siddendra Yogi the creator of this dance from was born here.

Bhadrachalam

Bhadrachalam is  On the banks of the river Godavari 181km away from Vijayawada, stands this famous temple dedicated to Lord Rama.

Lepakshi

Lepakshi is About 95km from Bangalore, is the popular pilgrim centre of Lepakshi with its Veerabhadraswami temple built in the Vijayanagar style.  This temple with its innumerable paintings and the colossal monolithic Nandi (the Celestial Bull) is very impressive.

Kolleru Lake

Kolleru Lake is about 90km from Vijayawada.  The vast tank of fresh water, locally called as Aredu, is a sanctuary for migratory birds, majority of them being Pelicans. They arrive in winter to breed and return to their original place.  It is a popular place for bird watching.

Machalipattanam

Machalipattanam is about 69km from Vijayawada.  This coastal town is famous of its Kalamkari textiles and paintings from Vegetable dyes. here the textile I sfirst dipped in a mixture of milk and natural dyes after which it is designed with Kalam or pen.  This work of creativity is done by the family craftmen settled down at this place.

Other interesting tourist spots near Vijayawada are Movva (55km), Draksharamma and Satyanarayana temples.
Machilipatnam:  This coastal town of Andhra Pradesh is 80km from Vijayawada and is well known for its Kalamkari textiles and painting from the vegetable dyes.

Vijayawada is an important railway junction and is also served by an airstrip. Excellent road system connects this place with many places in the country.  Very good lodging places and transport system are provided to visitors.