Kailasagiri is a picturesque park perched atop a hill overlooking the Bay of Bengal in Vizag. It spans an area of 380 acres and is an ideal spot for families and couples looking for a serene retreat amidst nature. Offering panoramic views of the city, water bodies, and lush green landscapes, the park houses several attractions, such as a huge statue of Lord Shiva Parvati, a floral clock, and a toy train providing a scenic tour of the hill. The ropeway ride to the hilltop is a thrilling experience, offering a bird's eye view of the surroundings. Visitors can also indulge in recreational activities, picnic spots, and enjoy the well-maintained gardens. The Shanti Ashram located in the park is a perfect spot for meditation and relaxation.
INS Kursura Submarine Museum is a distinctive attraction in Vizag, providing an immersive glimpse into the life inside a submarine. INS Kursura is a retired Indian Navy submarine, now transformed into a museum at RK Beach (Rama Krishna Beach). Visitors can explore the control room, living quarters, and weaponry of this preserved war machine. This is one of the rare opportunities for civilians to board a submarine and learn about its history and the maritime prowess of the Indian Navy. Knowledgeable guides, often retired navy personnel, walk you through the submarine while sharing captivating stories and technical details, highlighting India's naval achievements and the vessel's role during the Indo-Pak wars.
Rishikonda Beach is a stunning golden sand beach known for its pristine waters and is frequently counted among the best beaches in Vizag. It is the go-to place for water sports enthusiasts, offering a range of activities like jet skiing, windsurfing, and swimming. Its clean and clear waters are especially inviting for a refreshing dip. With its coastal curves and lush greenery on one side, it makes for the perfect setting for adventure and relaxation. Various water sports facilities are provided by local operators and are subject to weather conditions. The sunsets at Rishikonda Beach are especially beautiful and make for a perfect end to an adventurous day.
The Dolphin's Nose Lighthouse is an iconic landmark located on a rocky promontory in Vizag. It is named after the Dolphin's nose-shaped rock formation. Visitors can climb up the lighthouse to witness a spectacular panoramic view of the Bay of Bengal. From this vantage point, one can see ships sailing by and even spotting dolphins if you're lucky. The route to the lighthouse offers beautiful scenic vistas and is quite an attraction itself. The place is a hit among peace seekers and nature enthusiasts. The lighthouse operates in specific hours, particularly in the afternoon, and it's best to check the timings beforehand for a hassle-free experience.
Araku Valley is located around 120 kilometers away from Vizag and is a hill station known for its coffee plantations, indigenous tribes, and natural beauty. A day trip to Araku offers visitors a delightful retreat in the lap of Eastern Ghats. One can explore the Tribal Museum to learn about the local heritage, visit coffee plantations, sample organic coffee, and witness stunning views of the valley. The journey to Araku is equally enjoyable, with the road and rail routes passing through tunnels, bridges, and lush landscapes. Tourists often opt for the train ride to enjoy the picturesque journey. It is advisable to allocate a full day or even a weekend for visiting Araku Valley.
Simhachalam Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located on the Simhachalam hill. Dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu, the temple is a renowned religious site with historical significance. The architecture is a blend of Oriya and Dravidian styles, and the temple boasts a beautifully carved 16-pillared Natya Mandapa and a Kalyana Mandapa. The temple is also known for its 'Chandanotsavam' festival when the deity is covered in sandalwood paste. Visitors can experience the rich cultural and religious practices that take place here daily. Peaceful and spiritual, the site offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the Bay of Bengal from the hilltop.
Located in the Ananthagiri hills of the Araku Valley, Borra Caves is one of the largest and deepest cave systems in India. A natural wonder estimated to be over 150 million years old, these caves feature spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations. Inside, the caves have been illuminated, which accentuates their natural beauty. There are legends and mythological stories associated with the formation of these caves, adding to their mysterious charm. The journey to the caves is through the Eastern Ghats and is incredibly scenic. Visitors should be prepared to climb steps and navigate through low passages in certain areas. There are local guides available who can offer in-depth explanations about the geology and folklore of the caves.
The War Memorial, also known as 'Victory at Sea War Memorial', is situated on the beach road at RK Beach in Vizag. It is a tribute to the Indian Navy and commemorates the victory of India in the Indo-Pak War of 1971. Visitors here can see a display of military tanks, fighter plane models, and missiles that were actually used during the war. It is not only a site of historical importance but also offers a serene place to walk along the beach and watch the sun setting across the water. It instills a sense of patriotism and is a source of education for both children and adults about the power and capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces.
Visakha Museum, also known as Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation Museum, is housed in the old Dutch Bungalow in the port area. The museum exhibits a unique blend of historical artifacts, including ancient weaponry, crockery, coins, silk costumes, jewelry, portraits of the British rulers, and many other items of the bygone era. It also displays the maritime history of Vizag with models of ships and information about the maritime activities that take place in the city. For history enthusiasts and curious minds, this is an essential stop to get to know the city's past and cultural heritage. The museum provides a detailed narrative of Vizag's journey through time and the various influences that have shaped it.
Yarada Beach is another pristine beach in the vicinity of Visakhapatnam, cocooned between the Bay of Bengal and the hills on three sides. This beach is an excellent place for those looking to escape the more crowded beaches in the city. The golden sands and the lush green backdrop offer a tranquil and refreshing environment to visitors. One can indulge in sunbathing, beach volleyball, or simply take a leisurely walk along the coastline. There are limited facilities on the beach, so it’s a good idea to pack water and snacks. The sunrises and sunsets at Yarada are spectacular and provide perfect photographic opportunities to capture the scenic beauty of this untouched beach.
Hill Stations (1)
Beaches (10)
Religious Places (41)
Historical Places (31)
Museums (11)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (4)
National Parks (1)
Forts (1)
Villages (5)
Island (1)
Gardens (4)
Waterfalls (3)
Dams (2)
Lakes (2)
