Explore Visakhapatnam: A Treasure Trove of Tourist Spots

Visakhapatnam, often called Vizag, is a beautiful coastal city in India that offers a mix of stunning beaches, rich culture, and historical significance. Let’s take a closer look at some must-visit tourist places in this vibrant city.

1. Rushikonda Beach: Sun, Sand, and Surf

Rushikonda Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Visakhapatnam. Imagine soft golden sands meeting the sparkling blue waters of the Bay of Bengal. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming and water sports, like jet-skiing and windsurfing. Plus, the beach is lined with cozy shacks offering delicious local food. You can spend a whole day here relaxing, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the scenic beauty.

2. Kailasagiri: A Hilltop Haven

Kailasagiri is a hilltop park that gives you the best views of Vizag and the sea. Picture yourself standing on top of a hill, surrounded by lush greenery and giant sculptures of Lord Shiva and Parvati. You can take a cable car ride, which adds to the thrill. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, family outing, or a romantic evening watching the sunset. The panoramic views will leave you awestruck.

3. Submarine Museum: Dive into History

Ever wanted to explore a real submarine? The Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam is a unique attraction where you can board the INS Kurusura. It's one of the few submarine museums in the world. As you walk through, you’ll discover how sailors lived under the sea and the technology used in naval warfare. This experience is both educational and exciting, making it a great spot for families and history buffs.

4. Araku Valley: Nature’s Paradise

A little outside of Vizag lies the stunning Araku Valley. If you love nature, this place is a must-visit. It’s a picturesque hill station surrounded by lush coffee plantations, rolling hills, and vibrant tribal culture. You can take a train ride from Vizag to Araku Valley, passing through beautiful landscapes that seem like a painting. Once there, enjoy local cuisine, visit coffee estates, or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air.

5. Borra Caves: Nature’s Artwork

Borra Caves, located near Araku Valley, are a natural wonder you can’t miss. These limestone caves are filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. Walking through these caves feels like stepping into a fantasy world. Don’t forget to carry a camera; the formations look surreal and are perfect for photography. This geological marvel is both thrilling and fascinating.

6. Simhachalam Temple: Spiritual Journey

For those seeking spiritual solace, the Simhachalam Temple is a must-visit. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Narasimha, has stunning architecture and intricate carvings. When you walk through its massive gates, you’ll feel a sense of peace and devotion. The temple attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, making it a vibrant and lively place. Witnessing the evening rituals can be a soul-stirring experience.

7. Yarada Beach: Serenity Awaits

If you're searching for a quieter beach experience, head to Yarada Beach. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. With hills on one side and the vast ocean on the other, it feels like paradise. It's ideal for relaxing, taking long walks, or enjoying a good book while listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore.

8. Roshikonda View Point: A Scenic Snapshot

For a stunning view of the coastline, visit the Roshikonda View Point. Perched high above, it offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding hills. It’s a fantastic spot to take pictures, especially at sunset when the sky turns into a canvas of colors. Whether you're alone or with friends, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some quiet or have a fun photo session.

Final Thoughts

Visakhapatnam is a city that brings together nature, history, and adventure in one package. Each tourist spot has its own charm and story to tell. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the diverse offerings of Vizag. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or discovering geological wonders, this city will surely capture your heart.

About Vishakapatnam district owes its name to its headquarters Visakhapatnam which is noted for its importance ever since the historic days. The port city is known for its natural harbor.  It is also the centre of a number of maritime activities. The Hindustan Shipyard, India’s major shipbuilding and repair yard is situated here. Visakhapatnam, the ‘jewel’ of th east coast of India is a harmonious blend of the magical past and bustling present.  This breathtaking city of golden beaches, lush fields, verdant valleys and splendid monuments is named after ‘Visakha’, the god of Valour.  Its antiquity can be traced back to emperor Ashoka (27c-232 BC) and was later ruled by the Andhra Kings of Vengi, the Cholas and the Gangas.  Visakapatnam or Vizag has now emerged as an important port, industrial as well as tourist centre.

Visakhapatnam City

Located on the east coast of India, in 17°43' North latitude and 82°2' East longitude, it has range of hills.  Based on topographical conditions, the city and its environs can be divided into four categories, viz.  Hilly region, Upland tracks. Rolling plains and Plains.  The major hill ranges of the city are Kailasa and Yarada hill ranges.  The Kailasa hill range stretches from Simhachalam to MVP Colony on the north flank of the city.  The city, which appears like a small basin, is surrounded by the Yarada hill.

In the olden days, this region was ruled by the Kakatiya Gajapathis.  Sri Krishnadeva Raya, after his conquest of Kalingadesa erected a Jayastambha at Patnary in this area.  It was during the reign of the Golconda rulers, that the Dutch, English and French merchants established commercial depots in this region.  The place was named after the God of Valor, Visakha.  Once a small fishing village, it formed a part of the Kalinga empire under Ashoka passing successively to the Pallavas and Gangas.  In the 15th century, it became a part of the Vijayanagar Empire.  The British transformed it into a port.  It became famous after the establishment of industrial activity such as the steel industry, Ship building and Oil refinery.

Visakhapatnam India

Noted for its beautiful landscape and fine coast, it was once called as Waltair and the Brighton of India.  The most famous landmark Visakhapatnam is the Dolphin's none, a rocky promontory in port, 358m high.  The lovely beach in the east coast is named after Sri Ramakrishna due to the Situation of the beautiful temple of the saint and the statue of Swamy Vivekananda.  Another popular beach is called Rishikonda.  The Andhra University Campus is another lovely area. Visakhapatnam port is next to Chennai Port in importance in the south. The Hindustan Shipyard is the country's major ship building centre.  A splendid view of the bay and the town can be had from the Dolphin's nose.

On a hill called Kailasagiri near the seashore, a beautiful garden has been recently developed.  on the summit, two huge statue of seated Shiva and Parvati constructed of white cement have been installed in the middle of the garden.  These statues present an enchanting view from a distance.  This area presents a fine view of the entire beach and township and has become a popular place of picnic resort.  City buses operate to the top of the hill through a fine road at regular intervals.

Climate

The climate of Vishakhapatnam has no appreciable seasonal changes.  Being close to the sea, the level of humidity is high.  The fluctuations in temperature are uniform in character, except during the dry months when the rise in temperature is higher than it is during the monsoon period.

History

Vishakhapatnam was established by the British and was opened to sea-going vessels in 1933. Since then, it has been a medium - sized port town, catering to the needs of the Deccan plateau, and the eastern regions of the country.  Known as Waltair under British rule, Vishakhapatnam was also seen to be of strategic importance by the military who set up, base here.

Places to Visit in Visakhapatnam

Vishakhapatnam is a place where one can find the charm of the state of Andhra Pradesh.  From lakes to cool beaches, from beautiful hill ranges to cave and valley enclosures, Vishakhapatnam has all of them.  A visit to this port city will certainly be exciting, enriching and an enthralling experience with all its amazing beaches, exquisite caves and spectacular temples.

Ramakrishna Beach

This magnificent beach occupies the largest part of the sea front and is one of the most popular sites of the town.  The Ramakrishna Mission is located nearby and there is also an imposing Kali Temple near the beach.  An aquarium here is also worth visiting.

Lawson’s Bay

It is located to the north of Viskhapatnam and is considered ideal for swimming as well as surfing.

Rishikonda

The excellent beach resort 8 km from the town is located against the backdrop of lush Rishikonda hill on the Visakhapatnam Bheemunipatnam beach road.  The 14th century temple of Sri Sapta Rusheswara is also located here.

Ross Hill (Kanyamarykonda)

This highest hill on the Eastern Ghats is named after Mr. Ross, who built a house here in 1864, which was converted into a church.

Darga Konda

This magnificent hill has a mosque and a shrine dedicated to the Muslim saint Ishaque Madina, who is revered for his prophecies.

Sri Venkateswara Swamy Konda

The third important hillock of the city has a temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.  According to the Telugu inscriptions, a British soldier Captain Blackmoor built his temple in 1886.

Kailasagiri

This charming hill on the sea front affords breathtaking scenic views especially towards Bheemli.  A well laid out hill park sprawls over an area of 35o acres, teeming with enchanting flora and tropical trees.  There are magnificent statues of Shiva Parvati, which are illuminated at night.  The 40m high Sankham, Chakram and Namam are illuminated in the night and can be seen from most parts of the city.

Dolphin’s Nose

The massive dolphin shaped promontory jutting into the sea is located in the southern part of the town.  The most famous landmark at Vishakhapatnam is the Dolphin's Nose.  This huge rock, 174m in height and 358m above the sea level, is shaped like a Dolphin's nose.  The rock juts out into the sea, forming a headland on which is the lighthouse.  The lighthouse has a beam that can be seen 64km out at sea.

Visakha Museum

It is housed in a 150 years old “Dutch Bungalow” on the beach road.

Submarine Museum

This unique museum is housed in the INS Kusura, a Russian built submarine and is the first of its kind in Asia.  It is located at the Ramakrishna Beach and was set-up on 27th February 2001. Other attractions are VUDA Park, Indira Gandhi Zoological park, Mudsarlova water Park and Anthropology Museum. 

Places to Visit in Vizag

Araku Valley

The picturesque valley in the Eastern Ghat is popularly known as Andhra’s Ooty.  It extends over an area of 36 sq km and is rich in exotic flora and fauna.  The valley is inhabited by 17 colourful tribes still untouched by modern civilization and is a favourite out-door location for the Telugu film makers. Arakku Valley is about 114km from Visakhapatnam.  A fine road, part of which is ghat section, takes the visitor to a height of about 1170m and then passes through a picturesque scenery down to the valley which lies about 975m above sea level.  It is the home of 17 colorful tribes, who have kept their customs vibrantly alive.  Traditional folk dances, the most famous being the Dhimsa Dance, are still performed here.  The place can be reached from Borra Caves also by train through winding tunnels, which provide a breath-taking experience.  About 30km from the caves, the most beautiful valley unfolds itself.

Borra Caves

Borra Caves is about 90km from Visakhapatnam. The spectacular caves believed to be over 1 million years old are located on the way to Araku valley.  These caves cover an area of over 2 sq km and were formed as a result of the action of the waters of Gosthani River on the limestone terrain.  The fascinating stalagmite and stalactite structures in the caves are truly amazing. Located around 100km from Vizag, these caves at Anantagiri mandal in the Eastern Ghats have geological and historical significance.  Water drips onto a Shivalingam deep in the caves, and this drip is said to be the origin of the river, Gosthani.  An ancient village said to be million years old, where a stream suddenly disappears into the limestone caves o ancient times, only to emerge again about 100m below the George.  These caves can be seen even in the rainy season. A grand festival is held during Mahashivarathri day when the local people gather in large number. This place is connected by a regular daily rain from Visakhapatnam, as well as by bus.  Ananthagiri, on the way has a rest house for overnight stay.

Bheemunipatnam or Bheemli

The historical town at the mouth of river Gosthani is said to be named after Bhima, one of the five Pandava brothers of Mahabharta epic.  He is believed to have killed demon Bakasura over here and installed an idol of Lord Narasimha at the temple atop the Narasimha hill.  Bheemli was under the Dutch occupation during 17th century and has some relics of a Dutch fort and settlement.  A cemetery here has tombs embossed with the skull and cross bones motif of the sea pirates.  The tranquil Bheemunipatnam beach is very safe for swimmers. This is a beautiful sandy beach and is picturesquely situated at the confluence of Gosthani River into the Bay of Bengal.  It Is one of the finest sea resorts of India and is well-known as Bheemli.  It is the safest of all the beaches here.  It's a beautiful beach and has an invigorating climate coupled with the pleasantness provided by the lush green palm groves that add to its immense attraction.  A ruined fort and an armoury remain sequestered among the plantain and palm groves.  The Dutch cemetery has 13 tombs, which mark a span of time from 1661 to 1770 AD.  The Dutch influence can be seen from the architectural style of the houses built there.  There is a Dutch cemetery called Hollanders Green, which overlooks the ocean.  The evidence of the British presence in Bheemunipatnam can be seen from the 19th century clock tower and the church of St' Peter.  Bheemunipatnam was a major Dutch port in the past. Bheemunipatnam is about 47km from Visakhapatnam.  Situated at the mouth of the river Ettivalasa, this place can be reached along the longest beach road. The remnants of a Dutch settlement and cemetery dating back to the 17th century are preserved here.  The chief attraction of the place is its beach, unrivalled for its beauty all along the east coast. It is considered safe and ideal for sea bathing.  There is a St. Ann's Home run by the Sisters of the Italian Order.  The Mission Hospital run by them has earned a good name.

Simhachalam

Simhachalam or the ‘Lion’s Hill’ is famous for the 11th century Varaha Lakshmi Narasimhaswami temple, one of the most important shrines of Lord Vishnu.  Lord Narasimha a combination of the Varaha and the Narasimha incarnations of Vishnu is the presiding deity and the idol is always covered with sandal paste.  During Chandanayatra Festival (March – April) the sandal paste is removed and the real shape of idol is visible.  It is also one of the best sculpted shrines in Andhra Pradesh. About 20km from the city is the famous Simhachalam hill temple of the 11th century, where the presiding deity, Varaha Lakshminarasimha is always covered with sandal wood paste.  The actual form of the idol is viewed only once in a year, during the Chandana Yatra.  Simhachalam, which is visited by lakhs of devotees every year, is being developed as a 'Divya Kshetram', to make it second only to the Tirumala temple.

Simhachalam is about 20km from Visakhapatnam. The Hill of the Lion as it is called, has a famous temple of the 11th century dedicated to Narasimha.  The hill is about 250m high above sea level and a fine motorable road has been laid from the bottom to the top.  The shrine at the top is located on a vast plateau having a fine tower and an enclosure.  In the shrine the body of the deity Narasimha is always covered with a thick coating of sandal paste, which is required to appease the fury of the Lord as he is considered in his terrible form Ugra Narasimha. The coating is renewed annually during the festival called Chandana Yatra (March - April) whenthe original real form and shape of the deity can be seen.  A number of choultries and rest houses have come up on the top of the hill as well as at the bottom village for the visiting pilgrims and devotees. Regular city buses operate to Simhachalam from Visakhapatnam and the temple buses and autorickshaws are available to go up the hill.

Sankaram

This is a small village about 3km from the banks of the river, Sharada. The name Sankaram appears to have been derived from the term 'Sangrama', which means a monastery.  At Bojjannakonda, numerous images of Buddha can be seen carved in caves in the hill.  Similarly, at Lingaalametta, innumerable rows of rocks and monolithic stupas are spread all over the hill.

Thotlakonda

Situated 16km from Vishakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, along the Vzag-Bhimli beach road, this Buddhist settlement has a number of stupas, chaityas, viharas, congregation halls, and a refractory of the Hinayana school of Buddhism.

Bavikonda

Located 20km to the Northeast of Vishakhapatnam, this Buddhist settlement at Bavikond a consists of religious and secular constructions.  The religious monuments include stupas, Chaityagrihas, a congregation hall and platforms.  The secular constructions include viharas (accommodation) and kitchen-cum-stres complexes.
Festivals

Vishakha Utsav

The annual tourism event, the 'Vishakha Utsav' is held in Vishakhapatnam for three days from the third Friday to Sunday in the month of January.  It is primarily to highlight the tourism and investment potential of the region.  Various events such as yatras, folk dances, exhibitions, etc. are organized during this festivals.

Bavikonda

Located 20km to the Northeast of Vishakhapatnam, this Buddhist settlement at Bavikond a consists of religious and secular constructions.  The religious monuments include stupas, Chaityagrihas, a congregation hall and platforms.  The secular constructions include viharas (accommodation) and kitchen-cum-stres complexes.

Kondakarla Ava

Kondakarla Ava  is about 45km from Visakhapatnam.  There is a massive lake at this place, which has been developed s a popular place of picnic.  The best months are October to December.

Machkund

Machkund is about 166km from Visakhapatnam. The road beyond Arakku Valley leads to the Hydro-Electric Power House at this place.  The waterfall at Duduma has been harnessed for generating electric power.  During the rainy season, the waterfalls present an enchanting view.  This is a beautiful place for brief holiday to enjoy the natural scenery.  A few rest houses are available at this place.  State bus service is available.

Vizianagaram

Vizianagaram is about 60km from Visakhapatnam. This was the second largest town held once by a Rajah during the aftermath of the Mughal period.  There is a gigantic fort, within which the remnants of the past glory of this dynasty are still preserved.  The town has grown around the fort.  The ancient huge tank called Pedda Cheruvu has become a sanctuary for wild fowls migrating from outside.  Around the town are some ancient temples which are popular places of pilgrimage.  Padmanabha Swamy temple at Padmanabha and Kanyaka Parameshwari temple at Anakapalle are worthy of visit.

Visakhapatnam is a famous railway station and is connected by excellent road system also.  Deluxe and middle class lodgings are available in the city. City bus service and autorickshaws are available for local conveyance.

Festivals

Vishakha Utsav

The annual tourism event, the 'Vishakha Utsav' is held in Vishakhapatnam for three days from the third Friday to Sunday in the month of January.  It is primarily to highlight the tourism and investment potential of the region.  Various events such as yatras, folk dances, exhibitions, etc. are organized during this festivals.