Visakhapatnam City (Vizag), Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam, popularly known as “Vizag,” is the administrative capital of Visakhapatnam District in Andhra Pradesh. Vizag, often known as the “City of Destiny” or by many as the “Goa of the East Coast” in India, is one of the oldest and richest in terms of history, culture, and tradition. Vizag is considered the commercial hub of coastal Andhra Pradesh, known for its tourism attractions, industrial progress, and maritime trade. This “Jewel of the East Coast” serves as the headquarters for Eastern Naval Command.

History of Visakhapatnam

Originally a little fishing village under the Mighty Kalinga Empire during the reign of Ashoka the Great (272-232 B.C.), it then came under the Andhra Rulers of Vengi. Then Chankyas, Pallavas, and the Reddy Kings ruled the peaceful land. According to archaeological studies, the Chola Kings built the temples in the city between the 11th and 12th centuries AD. The Mughals dominated this region under the Hyderabad Nizam in the late 15th and early 16th centuries.

European merchants, French, Dutch, and East India Company used this natural port to export tobacco, ivory, muslin, and other textiles. Vizag was part of the Northern Circars, a region of Coastal Andhra controlled by the French and then the British in the 18th century. Vizag was established as a district of British India’s Madras Presidency. The British took over this magnificent area and turned it into a bustling and prosperous port town. Visakhapatnam was incorporated into the newly established Andhra Pradesh state in 1953, following India’s independence in 1947.

Culture of Visakhapatnam

Because of the availability of diverse employment opportunities in the public, private, and government sectors, individuals from all over the country have relocated to Vizag. Practically all major holidays are celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm and pomp. The predominant language spoken in the city is Telugu, but many people are also fluent in English and Hindi.

Visakhapatnam, one of the state’s most traditional cities, is also an artistic centre. The City residents place a strong focus on Carnatic music and dance. Children are accustomed to dancing and singing from a young age, as it is passed down to their families. A lot of effort is placed into learning various Classical dance styles like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipodi, with various dance institutes volunteering for festivals and day-to-day coaching.

The city is well-known for its cultural and traditional heritage. The Government of Andhra Pradesh organizes many cultural events, which boosts tourism in the city. Hilly Tribes continue to perform their local dance Dhimsa at local fairs and festivals. Tribe members proudly wear traditional clothing and perform instruments such as mori, Thuduma, and Dappu. The city, which adheres to all major religious faiths, also celebrates significant festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Pongal, and Onam.

Tourism In Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam is famed for its stunning beaches and tranquil terrain, as well as its rich cultural heritage, making it an excellent choice for a seaside vacation. The City’s port is well-known for housing India’s oldest shipyard, and with a plethora of built and natural attractions, The City is a must-see tourist destination in South India.

Top Visiting Places In Visakhapatnam

Simhachalam Temple

The Simhachalam Temple in The City is one of the most prominent tourist attractions. The temple, also known as Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha, is dedicated to the Hindu deity Vishnu. According to tradition, Vishnu appeared in the shape of a half-lion, half-human to save his devotee Prahlada from being murdered by his father, Hiranyakashipu.

From the outside, the temple resembles a fortress, with five entrances and three lovely courtyards. The temple is a visual representation of the architecture of the Kalinga, Chalukya, and Chola dynasties.

INS Kurusura Submarine Museum

The city has a submarine museum. Set up in 2011, the museum houses the INS Kurusura, which was built by Russians in 1969 and arrived in India in 1970. It served the Indian Navy well until 2001 when it was decommissioned. The submarine has witnessed and played an important role in numerous battles, including the Indo-Pak War of 1971. This is Asia’s first submarine-turned-museum. For all history buffs, don’t waste time pondering whether you should visit this museum. Quench your thirst by learning about the evolution of submarines in battle, as well as equipment and artefacts.

Rama Krishna Beach

Ramakrishna Beach, named after the adjacent Ramakrishna Mission ashram, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. RK beach is ideal for enjoying fun-filled activities including swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and beach volleyball.

You can also take a camel ride or a ride on one of the fishing boats manned by local fishermen. If nothing else, you can simply sit and relax while admiring the sunset.

Araku Valley

The City is a destination where you can encounter a wide range of things. While there are several beaches and waterfalls to explore, there is also no shortage of valleys. The Araku Valley is one such valley that you should not miss while seeing Vizag.

Araku is mainly a hill station located 120 kilometres from The City that is abundant in green fields, coffee plantations, stunning vistas, and, most significantly, beautiful weather. The valley is populated by tribes, and it also houses a museum displaying some of the best indigenous artwork. The travel to the valley by rail is truly breathtaking. A must-visit for all

Rishikonda Beach

At the well-known Rishikonda Beach, lose yourself in the sound of the waves splashing against the soft sand beneath your feet or swim away into the calm waters of the sea. The beach, nestled beneath Rishikonda hill, is recognized for its calm beauty. It cannot get any better than this.

The beach offers a glimpse into the best of both worlds: the hills and the beach. If you are the daring type, don’t forget to try out the numerous water activities available on the beach. There is no need to fear since they are all under expert supervision.

Kailasagiri

Ever wondered what it’s like to have a bird’s-eye view? At this point, The City must feel like a wish well. Before you know what you want, the city makes it happen. Kailasagiri is simply a hilltop park. The finest feature of this hill is that it offers a panoramic view of The City.

Kailasagiri, which overlooks beaches, forests, and the city, is a promising site to visit while in the city. You will undoubtedly have a great day, whether you are relaxing on a seat and admiring the scenery or participating in a range of other activities.

Borra Caves

As you enter the Borra Caves near Visakhapatnam, you will experience an adrenaline rush and a sense of the unknown. According to William King George of the Geological Survey of India, the caverns are around one million years old. They are amazing to see. Their origins are unknown, however, various legends surround these caves and the native tribe in the vicinity.

Borra Caves, a renowned tourist destination, is one of Vizag’s must-see attractions. According to certain common traditions, when the caves were first discovered, they discovered a Shivalingam inside and converted it into a holy shrine with a temple outside it.

VUDA Park

This is one of Vizag’s most popular attractions and is well worth a visit. This is an urban park named after Andhra Pradesh’s then-chief minister, N T Rama Rao, at the time it was established. The park offers a variety of leisure activities, including an ice skating rink that has become well-known around the city.

Vishakha Museum

If you wish to explore more museums, you can go to the Vishakha Museum. The museum, which dates back to around 260 BC, depicts numerous facets of the city’s culture and traces its history.

Dolphin’s Nose

Another renowned tourist attraction in Vizag is the Dolphin’s Nose, a hill shaped like a dolphin’s nose. A lighthouse guides sailing ships to the port and away from rough seas.

The British utilized it as a military camp before India’s independence. It is a noteworthy location since several important wars were fought in and around it, including the British-French War, also known as the Battle of Vizag.

Yarada Beach

Another famous destination in Vizag is Yarada Beach, which is one of the city’s well-kept beaches. The beach’s golden sand and clear waves make it one of the best places in Vizag to spend special moments with your loved ones.

The beautiful splendour of the surroundings, as well as the magnificent sunrise and sunset views, will leave you in amazement.

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park

The two finest locations to visit in a new city are the museums and zoological parks. Keeping this in mind, Vizag does not hesitate to provide you with one of the state’s largest parks, home to a diverse range of eight species. It’s a popular place for kids and animal enthusiasts of all ages.

The park’s six hundred and twenty-five acres and diverse animal population are likely to amaze you. It also contains a separate section for moths and butterflies. A little train runs across the grounds to provide you with an overall view of the locations, ensuring you don’t miss anything.

Tenneti Park

Tenneti Park, located on Beach Road in Jodugullapalem, is one of Vizag’s oldest public parks. The park’s great position makes it popular with both tourists and locals, as it offers a sea view on one side and beautiful foliage all around. It is an ideal location for taking some wonderful photos with your loved ones.

Bojjana Konda

This old Buddhist heritage site dates back to the fourth century. It’s a rock cave located on a hilltop. It comprises monolithic rock stupas, as well as relics and artefacts from the Buddhist era in Sankaram.

Katiki Falls

Vizag is a land of never-ending surprises. The city serves as a hub for all types of travellers, offering something unique to everyone. Katiki Waterfalls, which originate in the Gosthani River, are located near Borra Caves. It is a wonderful destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

It’s a short climb to the waterfall along serpentine, rocky paths, which adds to the excitement. There are pit breaks where you can refuel with delicious Bamboo Chicken and Coconut Water. Take a break from your problems and enjoy the sounds of various birds chirping, a soak in the cold river water, or simply tranquillity.

Bavikonda Buddhist Complex.

Buddhism has played an important role in the evolution of Indian religions. It had a significant impact in Visakhapatnam, particularly on the dynasties that ruled the city over the years. The Bavikonda Buddhist Complex serves as one piece of evidence.

The wells in the Bavikonda Buddhist Complex were built to store rainwater. Buddhism is a religion that promotes calmness, sobriety, and peacefulness. There is no better place in Vizag to do precisely that.

Weather & Climate in Vizag

The average temperature in Visakhapatnam during the coldest month (January) is 24 °C (75.1 °F), while the warmest month (May) is 32 °C (89.7 °F).

The best time to visit Visakhapatnam

The best months to visit Visakhapatnam are December and January, as they are the least hot during the dry season. The dry season continues throughout February and March, but the temperature gradually rises.

Population of Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam’s current estimated population for 2024 is 2,453,000. The current estimates for Vizag are based on past growth rates. According to Census India’s provisional data, Vizag’s population in 2011 was 1,728,128.

Visakhapatnam Religion

Hinduism is the majority religion in Visakhapatnam, accounting for 92.32% of the population. Islam is the second most common religion in Vizag, accounting for around 3.85% of the population. In Vizag, Christianity is followed by 3.07%.

Transportation in Visakhapatnam

How to Reach Visakhapatnam: The City is easily accessible from anywhere in the country. Those travelling by air can book tickets up to Visakhapatnam Airport, while those travelling by train can purchase tickets until Visakhapatnam Junction. Travellers arriving from neighbouring towns and cities can take advantage of state and private bus services, which are both affordable and comfortable.

Airport: Visakhapatnam Airport, located about 8 kilometres from the city centre, connects the city to other cities in India and overseas. Various domestic and international carriers operate from here. Major airlines such as Air Costa, Air India, SpiceJet, IndiGo, and Jet Airways operate regular flights to Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Tirupati, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. SilkAir and Malindo Air conduct flights to overseas destinations such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Taxis and buses are easily accessible from outside the airport.

Roadway: Visakhapatnam has decent road connectivity to several adjacent cities and towns. Several state and private buses depart from places including Hyderabad (588 km), Chennai (790 km), Kolkata (882 km), Vijayawada (335 km), and Puri (442 km). The well-maintained NH 5 connects The City to Kolkata, which takes approximately 14 hours.

Railway: The City has its railway station, known as the Visakhapatnam Junction, which connects to various major Indian cities. This station, located approximately 12 kilometres from the city centre, serves various frequent trains from New Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata, among others. Janmbhoomi Express and Konark Express from Hyderabad, Samta Express from Delhi, East Coast Express from Chennai, and Prasanthi Express from Bangalore are among the best trains to The City. Buses and taxis are easily accessible from outside the railway station.