Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh

Vijayawada, the City of Victory, is a famous city that is situated on the banks of Krishna River in Andhra Pradesh. Known for comprising the largest railway junction of South India, Vijaywada is encircled by the Indrakiladri hills on its west and Budameru River on its north. Along with being prominent for commerce, the city is also a blossoming tourism destination in Krishna district. In earlier times, it is believed to have been visited by the Chinese traveler, Hieun T`sang. 

Apart from its mythological significance, Vijaywada has also contributed to the economic and fiscal reasons of the district as well as the state. This third largest city of the state is also known as Bezawada. It also serves as the venue for Krishna Pushkaram, which is an all-India festival celebrated once in twelve years. The spirituality also comes alive in the excavated sites of Buddhist stupas like Amaravati, Gudivada, Ghantasala etc. 

Amidst rich vegetation and striking temples, the region looks really entrancing. It also has the distinction of having Prakasam Barrage, which is more than 1000 meters long and comprises both rail track and road. Besides temples and stupas, Vijayawada has many historical places that could be of your interest. Travel to Vijayawada and see for yourself the vibrant people and rich culture of this cultural capital of Andhra Pradesh.

Transport

Places to See:

Kanaka Durga Temple

Perhaps Kanaka Durga Temple is the most popular temple of the city. Perched on Indrakiladri Hill, the temple provides a panoramic view of Vijayawada. The presiding deity in the temple is Kanaka Durga, who is considered as the Goddess of power, riches and benevolence. There are several inscriptions inside the temple, representing different dynasties. Though all festivals are observed here with full enthusiasm, Dusshera deserves special mention. People from all parts of the region come to visit this divine temple. 

Prakasam Barrage

Prakasam Barrage presents a wonderful sight with its colossal size across Krishna River. Finished in 1957, Prakasam Barrage comprises both railway track and road. A Venetian look has been granted to the city by a huge lake and three canals along the barrage. 

Victoria Jubilee Regional Museum

Situated on Bandar Road, Victoria Jubilee Regional Museum has been set up by the State Archaeological Department. It comprises beautiful sculptures, attractive paintings, idols, weapons, cutlery and inscriptions that date back to the 1st and 2nd centuries. 

Bhavani Island

Perhaps Bhavani Island is the largest island in Krishna River. Located near Prakasam Barrage, the island has been groomed up by Andhra Pradesh tourism. It has some cottages that offer really cozy accommodation. A boat ride to this island in itself would be an electrifying activity. 

Gundala Church

Also known as St. Mary's Church, Gundala Church was earlier an orphanage. It is to be found on the eastern side of the town on a hillock. 'Our Lady of Lourdes' is an annual event observed at the church that is attended by hundreds of people. 

The Gandhi Stupa

Perched on Gandhi Hill, the Stupa was the first memorial built in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi across the country. Here one can see the teachings of the legend inscribed on stone slabs. Gandhi Memorial Library, Planetarium, Sound and Light Show are the added attractions at the hill. 

Hazrathbal Mosque

Hazrathbal Mosque is an important holy place in Vijayawada. Special attraction of the mosque is that it houses a sacred relic of Prophet Mohammad that is exhibited once in a year. People from far and wide come to pay their homage at the mosque. 

Akkana and Madanna Caves

En route for Kanaka Durga Temple, Akkana and Madanna Caves are the rock-cut caves built in the 17th century. Akkana and Madanna were actually ministers in the court of Abdul Hasan Tanashah. These caves are accompanied by one more cave that dates back to the 2nd century and houses trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. 

Rajiv Gandhi Park

Rajiv Gandhi Park is an educative park, erected by the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation. Being at the entrance of the city, the park welcomes the tourists with its impressive horticultural work. In the company of mini zoo, playing area for children and a musical water fountain, Rajiv Gandhi National Park is a favorite picnic spot amongst the people. 

Malleswaraswami Temple

In the proximity of Kanaka Durga Temple, the shrine of Malleswaraswami is sited on Indrakiladri hill. Lord Mallikarjuna is known by the name of Malleswara in the Puranas. The idol inside the shrine is believed to have been installed by Yudhishthira (the eldest brother of the Pandavas) to commemorate their victory in the South. 

Vijayeswara Swami Temple

In the vein of other temples, Vijayeswara temple is positioned on Indrakiladri Hill in Vijayawada. The installation of deity is regarded to have been done by Arjuna to mark his victory with Lord Shiva as 'Kirata' (hunter). 

Besant Road

Besant Road is the most busy and crowded roads of Vijaywada. In and around this place, you can find about 50 cinema halls since theatres are the major source of entertainment for people. 

Subramanya Swamy Temple

One amongst the popular temples in Vijayawada, Subramanya Swamy Temple is also sited Indrakiladri Hill. One can take a flight of steps to reach the shrine. At the time of Skanda Shashti Festival, the temple receives thousands of devotees from all nearby areas. 

Sri Nagaraja Sri Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru Temple

Located in Chiitinagar, Sri Nagaraja Sri Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru Temple is a significant shrine in Vijayawada. Dussehra, being the major festival celebrated at the temple, attracts devotees from far and wide.

Amravati

Sited on the banks of River Krishna, Amravati is a sacred place known for Amareswara Temple. The town has been mentioned in the Indian epics as Dhanyakataka and Andhranagari. Located about 66 km to the south of Vijayawada, Amaravati is an excavation site of an earliest Buddhist Stupa. 

Manginapudi Beach

Manginapudi Beach revives the times of the yore, when its port used to serve as a gateway of India. Located near Machilipatnam, this spectacular beach falls along the coastline of Andhra Pradesh. Apart from its natural splendor, the coast also has historical significance. 

Kuchipudi

Located at a distance of 60 km from Vijayawada, Kuchipudi is the same place after which the State's dance has been named. Kuchipudi, being the hometown of Siddhendra Yogi (instigator of Kuchipudi dance), is known for its artistic and literary pursuits. In the present day, a full-fledged dance school is still reviving the memories of the great artiste. 

Gudivada

Also known as 'Vidarbhapuri', Gudivada is prominent for its historical temples. This place is believed to have been existed for over 2000 years, though it was popularized during the time of the Satavahanas. Sited about 45 km from Vijayawada, Gudivada was named after the numerous temples it had. The site has got ruins of age-old temples and is worth-visiting. 

Mogalrajapuram Caves

Located at a distance of 5 km from Vijayawada, Mogalrajapuram Caves actually are three cave temples that date back to the 5th century. Though in ruins, these caves present a wonderful sight. The fresco of Ardhanareeshwara found here, is said to be an exclusive one in South India. Other deities depicted are Lord Nataraja and Lord Vinayaka. 

Mangalagiri

Known for Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Mangalagiri is a small town about 12 km from Vijaywada. The rock-cut shrine is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, who is also referred as Panakala Narasimha. The reason behind the name 'Pankala' is that the Lord is offered 'Panaka', a dish made of jaggery. It is a very old temple and various eminent personalities are believed to have visited this shrine. An interesting fact about the temple is that you can trace no fly or ant in its premises though mounds of jaggery and sweets are stored inside. 

Kondapalli

Kondapalli is a small village, situated at a distance of 16 km from Vijayawada. This hamlet has the distinction of making amazing toys out of the light-weight wood. With their interesting color scheme and designs, Kondapalli toys are popular in both national and international markets. Besides wooden toys, the village is also known for embracing a fort, dating back to the 7th century. Perched on a hill, Kondapalli Fort was built by King Krishna Deva Raya. It still reminds one of the days of the royalty, with its notable three storeyed rock tower. 

Chandavaram

Chandavaram, an important Buddhist site, is located about 50 km from Vijayawada. The highlight of the place is formed by a remarkable double terraced stupa, which is to be found on the top of Singarakonda Hill. There are no less than 30 carved limestone panels that were excavated and once had been the grace of domes, drums and railings of Stupa. Chaityagrihas, Viharas and numerous minor stupas are other attractions on the hill............
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