Vijayawada

Once known as the political as well publishing capital of Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada is a vital rail and road link between the North and the South and is now known as 'the city that never sleeps'. A major business centre, it is the hub of commercial activity in the costal area. The Prakasam Barrage, the Kanakadurga Temple, the St. Mary's Church and the Moghalrajapuram Caves are some of the attractions in the city, known for its cinema theatres and typical Andhra food.

How to reach

Situated 270 kms from Hyderabad between river Krishna and its tributary Budameru, the city is spread over the rich coastal delta of Andhra Pradesh.

Places of interest

Kanaka Durga Temple

One of the most popular temples in and around Vijayawada, it is located on a hill Indrakeeladri overlooking the city as well as the River Krishna. One can either motor up the Ghat road or take to the steps on foot. Inscriptions of different dynasties are found in the temple. During Dasara (Durashtami), lakhs of devotees from the city and its environs throng the temple after a holy dip in the River Krishna close by.

Gunadala Matha Shrine

In 1925, Rf. Arlati, the then Rector of St. Joseph's Orphanage at Gundala, installed a statue of Our Lady and later a church was built and consecrated in 1971, now popularly known as St. Mary's Church. Since then the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes became an annual event here, attended by hundreds of people. The Church is situated on a hillock on the eastern side of the city.

Prakasam Barrage

Built across the river Krishna, Prakasam Barrage has created a panoramic lake. Its three canals that run through the city give Vijayawada a Venetian look.

Undavalli Caves

8 kms. from Vijayawada, these caves are said to be carved in 7th century A.D. Buddhist monks used this two-storeyed cave structure as a rest house during the monsoon. A huge monolith of the Lord Buddha in reclining posture is magnificent sight.

Rajiv Gandhi Park

Created by the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation with great care, this park welcomes the tourists at the entrance of the city with its impressive horticultural network. A mini Zoo and a musical fountain are added to it.

Gandhi Hill

The first Gandhi Memorial with seven stupas in the country was constructed on this hill at a height of 500 ft. The 52 ft. stupa was unveiled on 6th October, 1968 by Dr. Zakir Hussain, the then President of India. Gandhi Memorial Library, a Sound and Light Show on Mahatma Gandhi's life and a planetarium are the other attractions.
Victoria Museum

A place for archaeology lovers. Victoria Museum has a carefully preserved collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, idols, weapons, cutlery and inscriptions.

Mogalrajapuram Caves

These caves are said to be excavated in 5th Century A.D. The caves are reputed to be the first of their kind in South India. The idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka and Arthanareeswara are carved here.

Bhavani Island

Perhaps one of the largest Islands in a river, Bhavani Island is located on Krishna River close to the city. Journey to the island by boat is very pleasant.

Hazrat Bal Mosque

A holy relic of the Prophet Mohammed is kept here and displayed once a year. A large number of Non-Muslims too join the celebrations.

Places of interest around Vijayawada

Mangalagiri

12 kms. from Vijayawada is the renowned temple of Lord Narasimha in Mangalagiri, on a hillock. The unique feature of this temple is that the mouth of the idol accepts half the quantity of Panakam (Jaggery dissolved in water) offered by devotees, irrespective of the size of the vessel.

Hinkar Thirtha (Jain Temple), Mangalagiri

A Jain temple being constructed is almost nearing completion. With great artistic work, it is slated to be the biggest Jain temple in the region.

Kondapalli Fort

Kondapalli village is situated 16 kms. from Vijayawada. A 7th century fort on the hill with an impressive three storeyed rock tower was witness to the glory of many dynasties. It served as a business centre. Finally the fort was used as a military training base by the British rulers. A good picnic spot, the village is famous for toy making with light-weight wood available on the hill forest. These toys are famous world-over as "Kondapalli Toys".

Manginapudi Beach

Located near Machilipatnam, lakhs of pilgrims take a holy dip here in the sea during Magha Poornami, as it is ideal for sea bathing. Fabric printing with natural colours known as Kalamkari and gold covering are the major village industries, famous worldwide. The Panduranga Swamy Temple, which is said to be similar to the temple at Pandaripur, is a famous pilgrim centre.

Kuchipudi

About 60 km. from Vijayawada, this is the birthplace of Siddhendra Yogi, the originator of Kuchipudi dance form, famous throughout the world. A dance school by the Siddhendra Kala Kshetram trains many students every year, promoting the Kuchipudi dance form.

Amaravati

Amaravati, formerly called Dhanyakataka and Andhranagari, is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the country. Acharya Nagarjuna constructed the country's largest stupa here, 2000 years back. Amaravati is considered the most sacred pilgrim centre for Buddhists in South India. It also has an Amareswara temple.

Kolleru Lake

Located 95 kms from Vijayawada, this large fresh water lake attracts several species of birds. The lake is spread over an area of 300 sq. miles and pelicans from Siberia and Fiji Island are seen here during October and November every year. The famous Peddinti Amma/Jaladurga temple is located here. It is a great picnic spot for bird watchers and nature lovers.