Nizamabad, Andhra Pradesh

Nizamabad was formerly known as Induru and Indrapuri. It was ruled by the king Indra Vallabha Panthya Varsha Indra Som, of the Rashtrakuta Dynasty, in the 8th century, and took its name from him. In 1905 the railway line between Secundrabad and Manmad was constructed. The railway station was named after then ruler of the Nizam state Nizam-ul-Mulk as Nizamabad. Once the princely states of South India, Nizamabad is the biggest commercial and trading center of the district today.

Earlier it had been under the sway of the Chalukya dynasty and then Tughlaq dynasty, followed by the Nizam Kings. After attaining importance industrially and agriculturally, it has come into the glare of publicity. This place was further highlighted with the establishment of Telangana University that serves the districts of Nizamabad, Adilabad and Medak. Nizamabad is also a promising destination from the point of view of travel and tourism. 

Being influenced by various dynasties, Nizamabad definitely boasts of a blend of cultures. It has rich coffers in the form of forests and agricultural lands. Its major industries are made by confectionery and alcohol units. It is striving hard to achieve heights without compromising its rich culture and indigenousness. Together with grand festivals and ancient monuments, Nizamabad is a great place to visit in Andhra Pradesh.

Transport

Places to See:

Nizam Sagar

Nizam Sagar is a colossal reservoir across Manjira River, a tributary of Godavari River. Known for its spectacular beauty, the landscape is accompanied by sprawling gardens. Many boarding and lodging facilities are available here for the tourists. Boating is an added attraction. 

Asok Sagar

About 7 km from Nizamabad, Asok Sagar is a huge reservoir, with neatly laid-out garden and beautiful rocks. Amidst the reservoir, an exquisite 15 feet statue of Goddess Saraswati adds grace to the site. Here, you can tickle your taste buds at the octagonal shaped restaurant. This eco-tourism destination has a swinging bridge and boating facilities. 

Kanteshwar

There is a locality by the name of Kanteshwar in Nizamabad. It is known for a temple that is approximately 500 years old. Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Neela Kanteshwar), this temple boasts of splendid architecture. It was built by the Satavahana king, Satakarni-II. Rathasapthami festival is observed here with grand celebrations. 

Bada Pahad Dargah

Bada Pahad Dargah, literally Big Hill Mosque, is visited by scores of devotees every year. The mausoleum of Saint Syed Sadullah Hussaini is sited between the hills of Varni & Chandur. This site has been chosen for ropeway project. 

Archaeological and Heritage Museum

Opened in October 2001, the Archaeological Museum contains countless artifacts and antiquities, which signify the growth of human civilization from the Paleolithic to Vijayanagar Times. It is divided into three sections - Archaeological Section, Sculptural Gallery and Bronze and Decorative Gallery, respectively.

Sarangapur

About 8 km from Nizamabad, Sarangapur is renowned for a Hanuman Temple. It is believed that foundation of the shrine was laid by Saint Samartha Ramadas, who was the Guru of Chatrapati Shivaji in the 16th century. Apart from the temple, the Tourism Department has developed parks and hotels, facilitating tourists and pilgrims. 

Dichipalli Ramalayam

Adjacent to Hyderabad-Nizamabad highway, Dichipalli Ramalayam is a temple situated at a distance of 15 km from Nizamabad. This temple is positioned on a hillock, where the presiding deity is Lord Rama. Built entirely in white and black basalt stone, the temple has got exquisite carvings on its walls and door frames. 

Nizamabad Fort

Built by the Rashtrakutas, Nizamabad Fort is the pride of the city as well as the district. In 1311 AD, this Fort was occupied by Allauddin Khilji, followed by the Bahamanis, Qutub Shahis and eventually by Asaf Jahis. Dating back to the 10th century, the colossal fort is encircled by fortifications and bastions. Today, its spacious halls and summer house reflect the Asaf Jahi style of architecture.

Bodhan

Bodhan is an industrial town, about 32 km from Nizamabad. It is known for housing remnants of structures, constructed by various rulers of different dynasties. The renowned Deval Masjid (mosque) is sited here. Being an important historical site, Bodhan attracts thousands of tourists. 

Manchippa

Manchippa, a village submerged in natural beauty, is located 18 km from Nizamabad. This picturesque village has a huge reservoir, which has facilities of boating. People from all the nearby villages and towns come here to enjoy the scenic beauty. Away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Manchippa offers perfect surroundings for those seeking solitude. 

Domakonda Fort

Domakonda Fort is a fine specimen of defense architecture. This impregnable fort was renovated by the Reddy rulers in the 18th century. It had been under the possession of the Qutub Shahis and the Asaf Jahis at different times. Strong fortifications and numerous bastions made this fort unconquerable. 

Ali Sagar

In 1931, Ali Sagar - a huge reservoir - was constructed by the Nizam. Amidst hillocks and beautiful flower gardens, Ali Sagar has become the centre of attraction amongst the people of nearby areas. It is situated at a distance of 10 km from Nizamabad. Boating is an added attraction at this eco-tourism site. 

Limbadri Gutta (Hills)

About 55 km from Nizamabad, Limbadri Hill presents a panoramic view of the landscape. It is also known for Narasimha Swamy Temple, where a grand celebration is observed, from Kartika Sudda Thadiya to Trayodasi. Along with spectacular scenes, the hill offers moments of quietude and solitude. 

Mallaram Forest

An ideal destination for trekking, Mallaram Forest is to be found at a distance of 7 km from Nizamabad. It has a variety of trees, plants and herbs. For eco-tourism, Mallaram is the perfect place entrenched in natural splendor. A pagoda and a view-point tower are the main attractions inside the forest. 

Rock Formations-Armoor Road

Armoor is a natural stopover for the traffic on the highway. This site boasts of hillock of boulders, resultant of natural weathering over 1.45 billion years. Navanatha Siddeswara Temple is sited on top of the hill. According to the folklores, Navanathas or Siddhas (revered sages) still reside in the natural caves of these hillocks. A gorge nearby is believed to have curative properties in its waters............
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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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Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh

Puttaparthi is a town situated in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It was also the residence of the notable spiritual teacher Sathya Sai Baba.

The town's main attraction is Baba's Prasanthi Nilayam ashram, the presence of which has given a huge boost to the local economy, in the form of hotels, lodges, restaurants and shops which are largely frequented by visitors to Prasanthi Nilayam.

Transport

Places to See:

Sathya Sai Baba Ashram

In the historical year 1926, a blessed soul appeared on the earth in the form of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The legend experienced divine powers when he was barely 14. Acclaimed as the incarnation of Sai Baba (Shirdi), the prophet is one amongst the most revered spiritual guides of the 20th century. 

Birth Place of Sri Sathya Sai

In Puttaparthi village, the birth place of Satya Sai Baba today serves as the venue of a Lord Shiva temple. This shrine was opened by the seer himself in 1979. Though the real birthplace of Baba is not known, it is believed to be somewhere across the river. People visit this place to feel the spiritual aura of the prophet. 

Sathyabhama Temple

Sathyabhama is believed to be the consort of Lord Krishna. In Puttaparthy, there is an exclusive temple dedicated to her. This is one and only temple in the world devoted to the lord's consort. Since it is a distinct temple, people usually pay a visit to the goddess. 

Sri Raju Kalyana Mandapam

In 1945, Sri Raju Kalyana Mandapam was erected and Sai chose it as a place for his darshans. At the same site, there had been a temple that is now used for marriages in the village. 

The Village Mosque

In 1978, a mosque was constructed in the village on the directions of Sri Satya Sai Baba. On the outskirts of Puttaparthi, accidents had become a regular feature and people asked Sai to help them. The prophet asked people to dig a certain spot, where a plate was unearthed. Subsequently, the plate was placed in the new mosque and all the accidents came to a halt. 

Anjaneya (Hanuman) Swamy Temple

Flanked by Kalyana Mandapam and Sathyabhama Temple, Anjaneya Swamy Temple embraces the sculpture of Lord Hanuman in a cave. At the feet of Lord, there is a pool that always remains filled with water. It is believed that the water represents the tears of the Lord. 

Kalpa Vriksha

Located on the banks of the Chitravati River, Kalpa Vriksha literally means 'Wish Fulfilling Tree'. This old tamarind tree is the standing testimony to the Sai's childhood. It is said that Sai used to show his extraordinary powers to his playfellows by asking them to think of any fruit and the same would appear hanging off the branches of the tree. In the present day, Kalpa Vriksha has become a major spot for people. 

Chitravati River

Chitravati River is regarded like the new Ganga, since Sai used to bath in it and played on its banks. Today this river is the main source of sand for all the construction work in Puttaparthi. Even today, the clothes of the seer are washed in the river. 

Samadhi 

On the Samadhi Road, the Samadhi of Sai's parents - Sri Pedda Venkappa Raju and Smt. Easwaramma are to be found. Eswaramma Day, i.e. May 6th, is celebrated here every year, when special Bhajans are sung and hundreds of the poor are fed. 

Sai Gita - The Elephant

Sai Gita is actually an elephant that was gifted to Sai by Madras Zoo. In India, it is considered propitious to have real elephants in the temple, as they are considered to be the representatives of Lord Ganesha. She was a small baby, when received and later got quite spoilt with the love of the prophet. Next to the Mandir, it is her compound where she stays. 

Sathya Sai Nagar

Sathya Sai Nagar is a settlement of the Harijans (outcastes) of the village, where they have been given shelter by Sai. These people became homeless after the sudden flooding of Chitravati River in 1975. 

Gokulam

Gokulam is the ashram dairy, which provides milk for the schools, the hospital canteen and the ashram. The cows at Gokulam are properly looked-after and offer the best quality milk. At the entrance of Gokulam, there is a beautiful image of Sri Krishna. Long ago, the artistic 'fill-ins' on Sri Krishna's face was done by Sai himself............
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Visakhapatnam/Vizag, Andhra Pradesh

The city has been mentioned in the Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as the forests of the Eastern Ghats where the two brothers Ram and Lakshman wandered in search of Sita, wife of Lord Ram. According to the epics, Rama formed his army of monkey men in the region with the help of Hanuman and Jambavant. The monkey army of Rama later defeated the King Ravan to claim back his wife Sita. An episode of Mahabharata when Bheema killed the demon Bakasura, was believed to have happened in the village Karmanvati, just 40 km from the city.

Visakhapatnam, the port city, holds the distinction of being the second largest city of Andhra Pradesh. Sited on the eastern coastline of India, amidst the hills of Eastern Ghats, Vizag serves as the administrative headquarters of Visakhapatnam District and the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. It is also known as the 'City of Destiny' and makes the domicile of one of most advanced steel plant of India, along with numerous heavy industries. 

The City of Destiny has one of the largest ports in the country, the oldest shipyard and the only natural harbor on the eastern coast of India. Visakhapatnam also embraces the esteemed Andhra University in its expanse. Rivers like Godavari and Indravati flow across the city of valor. A huge rock, by the name of Dolphin's Nose, makes the most remarkable landmark of the port city. As per the folklores, Vizag was named after Vishakha - the God of Valor. 

The port city had been ruled by the Kalingas, Pallavas, Cholas and Gangas in the earlier times. It became the part of Vijayanagar Empire in the 15th century. Along the seashore of the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam served as a major trading center for the Europeans, the Dutch, the French and the English to export textiles, indigo, etc. Besides being a shipbuilding centre, Vizag has number of attractions that make it an amazing destination for tourism. 

The sun-kissed beaches, deep valleys, ancient temples, excavated Buddhist sites, impressive monuments, atypical museum, lofty hills and many more pleasurable sites serves as a major boost to the tourism industry, calling on people to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of the city.

Transport

Places to See:

Ramakrishna Beach

Ramakrishna Beach is the most popular beach of Visakhapatnam. With its serene waters and tranquil atmosphere, the beach offers a lovely vista of the countryside. In the past few years, it has gained immense popularity amongst the tourists. 

Rishikonda Beach

Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Rishikonda Beach is the perfect destination for people on a holiday. The untouched sandy stretches and warm waves of the ocean make this beach definitely worth-visiting. 

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is one amongst the largest zoos of India, sited in the natural surroundings of a reserve forest. Sprawled in an area of 625 acres, the park was named after Indira Gandhi - the former Prime Minister of India. It was opened to the public in the year 1977. 

Kailasagiri

Perhaps Kailasagiri is the most beautiful places in the expanse of Vizag. Perched on a hilltop, it is an interesting place that certainly looks like the abode of God.

Dolphin's Nose

Indeed Dolphin's Nose is the famous landmark in Visakhapatnam. With a height of 357 meters, the landmark is a rock in the shape of a Dolphin's nose.

Mudasarlova Water Works and Park

About 10 km from Visakhapatnam, Mudasarlova Park is actually sited in a valley encircled by hills. The attraction of the place is made by a lake that supplies water to the park, where slides and sports are attracting tourists and city-dwellers. It also has a Golf Course, which is owned by the East Point Golf Club. 

The Harbour & the Three Hills

Visakhapatnam boasts of embracing the natural harbour of the country. Dotted with trees and hills, this harbour is one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. In the company of three hills, it presents a wonderful vista.

Submarine Museum

Submarine Museum is a nice place to feel real-life experience at submarines. It is the only museum in India as well as the Asia to build a submarine. Actually, the museum has been crafted out of a real submarine of Indian Navy. Here, you can get to know about the working inside the submarine. 

Jagadamba Center

Jagadamba Center / Junction is a downtown place, which can be said the gist of entertainment in Vizag. Here, you can have leisure-time and even have a glimpse of the crowd. It has both local shopping centers and famous malls, from where you can shop the artifacts and accessories on top. It is named after the Jagadamba movie theatre, which is one of the best movie auditoriums of India. 

War Memorial

To be found opposite Submarine Museum on the Beach Road, War Memorial was built to commemorate the victory at the sea in the Indo-Pak war of 1971. The Naval Museum established here exhibits a fighter plane, a tank and few missiles. 

Matsyadarshini

Aquarium Sited near R.K Beach, Matsyadarshini Aquarium has a nice collection of marine fishes and freshwater fishes. Its, out of the ordinary, façade has an entrance doorway, which resembles the open mouth of a giant white-tipped shark.

Bavikonda

Dating back to the 2nd-3rd century, Bavikonda is a Buddhist excavated site. A drive of about 8 km from the city would bring you to this place, situated along the beach road. In the earlier times, the wells at the hill were used to collect rainwater for drinking purposes. Pottery, Roman coins and Satavahana coins were some of the artifacts found here. Further excavations revealed various stupas, monasteries, platforms, relic caskets, tiles, stuccos, iron objects, moulded bricks, coins, etc. 

Mangamaripeta

Mangamaripeta, a small hamlet, is situated about 16 km from Visakhapatnam. It is known for Thotlakonda, a hill embracing a Buddhist complex. At an elevation of 128 meters above ground, this complex was discovered by an aerial survey conducted by the Indian Navy. Dating back to 200 BC and 200 AD, Thotlakonda was under the sway of Kalingas and used to serve as the promotional centre of Buddhism.

Bheemunipatnam Beach

Bheemunipatnam Beach is a peaceful and serene beach, situated along the coastline of Andhra Pradesh. Amidst the blue waters and tall coconut trees, this beach appears to be the perfect site for honeymooners. The sparkling sands that get soaked by the warm waves revive the childhood days. 

Anantagiri Hills

When the tangled nerves need some break, a hill station is the only term that comes spontaneously to the mind. Anantagiri Hills is one such hill station, which soothes you to the core. Amidst the refreshing natural splendor, this hill station is certainly a paradise for all, mainly because of its serene atmosphere. 

Araku Valley

Araku Valley is a soothing hill station in the expanse of Andhra Pradesh. Enveloped in pastoral beauty, this beautiful valley has an elevation of 1,300 meters. Imagine a deep valley, where lush greenery is accompanied by shimmering waters of gorges and then you see an isolated hut and wish, if you could go there. 

Sankaram

Situated about 40 kms from Visakhapatnam, Sankaram boasts of two hills by the names of Bojjanakonda and Lingalametta. These hills have the Buddhist architectural remnants. Excavated in 1906, they possess the most amazing groups of Buddhist monuments that find their origin from 200 B.C. to 700 A.D. There are rock-cut caves, monolithic dagobas, massive pillars, rock-cut stupas etc, reviving the old-age charm. 

Pavurala konda

Pavuralakonda or 'Hill of the Pigeons' is to be found about 24 km from Visakhapatnam. This Buddhist site would give you an idea about the rain water harvesting concepts of the 3rd century BC. There are at least 14 - 16 reservoirs hewn into the bedrock. 

Salihundam

About 116 km from Visakhapatnam, Salihundam is another Buddhist site, next to Vamsadhara River, in the Srikakulam district. In 1919 AD, this site was discovered by Gidugu Venkata Rama Murthy. During excavations, various structures like stupas, monasteries, temples and sculptures were revealed here. Dating back from 2nd century BC to 12th century AD, these sculptures depict the three phases of Buddhism - Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana. 

Borra Guhalu

In 1807, Borra Caves were discovered by William King George, a British geologist. About 95 km from Visakhapatnam, these caves are formations of millions of years old stalactite and stalagmite. The term 'Borra' literally means 'human brain' in Telugu. Since the configuration inside the caves looks like a human brain, it was named Borra Guhalu or Borra Caves. Gosthani River flows next to the caves, so much near that you can even hear its sound inside. 

Simhachalam

Simhachalam is a small hamlet, sited about 16 km from Vizag. It is known for Sri Varaha Lakshminarasimha Temple, which boasts of excellent architecture. Dating back to the 10th-11th century, this religious shrine has many primeval inscriptions. Perched atop a hill, the shrine embraces the idol of Narsimha, the half man and half lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Its structure has similitude to the Chola and Chalukya styles of architecture............
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