Places to Visit in Vijayawada

Also known as Bezawada it is the second-largest city and an emerging commercial hub of Andhra Pradesh. Surrounded by the Bay of Bengal, Rivers Budameru, and Krishna, the famous Indrakiladri mountains, it offers a glimpse of its rich heritage. The Land of Victory, Vijayawada has a pronounced religious and historical significance. The famous Mangalagiri sarees, relics of various structures of the bygone eras, ancient temples, and monuments have tales to tell. Prime attractions here include Kanaka Durga Temple, the massive Prakasam Barrage, the Undavalli Caves and Bhavani Island, and many more. It is a perfect holiday escape with its splendid past and mesmerizing present.

Undavalli Caves, Vijayawada

Located at a distance of about 10kms from Vijayawada, the 4th -5th century Undavalli Caves are a center of prime attraction. Carved out of sandstone the monolith cave is an impressive testimony to the Indian rock-cut architecture. It exhibits the Gupta style of architecture and has three distinct levels the lower level resembles a Jain abode and houses several Thirthankara Sculptures. The second level is believed to house Lord Vishnu and the third level is the rooftop which commands a panoramic view of the hills, lot of greenery, and the river Krishna. The walls of the caves remain adorned sculptures of lions and elephants. It is a perfect place for history enthusiasts and tourists.

Mogalarajapuram Caves, Vijayawada

Located in the middle of the city of Vijayawada at "Kasthuribaipet", Krishna District these 5th-century relics are a testimony to the heritage of Vijayawada. The caves have a religious significance owing to five rock-cut sanctums that house idols of Lord Nataraja, Lord Vinayaka, goddess Durga. The five conspicuous components of the cave are called Upanam, Kantha, Vritta Kumuda, and Pattika. Different sections of the cave are dedicated to nine manifestations of goddess Durga. A stone carved idol of Ardhanariswara, an androgynous form, of Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati (Shakthi) is unique to this place. The caves are easily accessible and a prime tourist attraction.

Prakasam Barrage, Vijayawada

A Road Bridge present as Prakasam Barrage built across the River Krishna connects. The barrage was constructed to facilitate the irrigation of large tracts of farmland and is one of the first major projects undertaken for irrigation in South India. Three canals associated with the barrage run across the city of Vijayawada offering it a panoramic Venetian appearance. The place has evolved as a major tourist spot because of its majestic setup and aesthetic element. The entire bridge is set up with lights that add to its splendor. Activities associated with water like boating, few adventure sports are popular here. The backwaters of the barrage house the famous Bhavani Island.

Bhavani Island, Vijayawada

Located near the Prakasam Barrage it is a serene spot located on Krishna river. It is one of the largest islands on a river and named after Goddess Bhavani or Kanaka Durga who is the presiding deity of the temple on Indrakeeladri hill in the vicinity. Surrounded by mangroves and perfectly pruned gardens, clear scintillating waters, it is an ideal weekend getaway. The picturesque location has all the elements that have a soothing effect. The island hosts umpteen choices for water-oriented adventure. With snorkeling, parasailing, canoeing, kayaking, sailing yachts, reef walking one can have a whale of the time. Visitors can be spotted enjoying quality leisure time fishing, boating, snoozing on hammocks, and picnicking with family and friends.

Bapu Museum, Vijayawada

Located on the Bandar Road the Victoria Jubilee Museum is a living exemplar ashlar masonry in Indo-European architectural style. The museum was erected to honor the Golden jubilee coronation of Queen Victoria and it is here that the father of nation added a wheel to the tricolor flag. It is a history lovers paradise and offers a peek into a varied collection of paintings, ancient sculptures, Neolithic and Microlithic implements, manuscripts, idols, gold and silver coins, cutlery, and weapons. The museum exhibits a sculptor of Buddha made out of granite, 4-5th century idol of shiva another a white lime sculpture of Buddha, which happens to be a major attraction here. Museum remains accessible throughout the week except for Fridays and Public Holidays.

Kondapalli Fort, Vijayawada

Located in Kondapalli, Guntur at about 23 km away from Vijayawada the 14th-century imperial fort is an architectural delight. The structure reflects a blend of Persian, Mughal, and Bahamani style since it has roots in parallel histories. The resplendent complex has an entrance gate, Dargah Darwaja, made up of a single boulder of granite walls of the fort remain adorned with inscriptions and paintings. The fort houses relics of Dargah of Gareeb Saheeb, Golconda Darwaza, Tanisha Maha and reserves of sculptures, ancient coins. The unique and beautifully colored wooden toys are sold here, which visitors like to carry as memoirs. The fort offers a picturesque view of the valley and is an ideal place for picnicking.

Gandhi Hill, Vijayawada

It is the India's first Gandhi Memorial constructed on a hillock. The monument has a huge conspicuous 52 ft tall Gandhi stupa which remains surrounded by six others, all erected to pay homage and to commemorate the contributions of the Father of the nation. The memorial also houses a well-stocked library and the city's only planetarium. A light and sound show is organized in the evenings to let people have a glimpse of eventful life of Mahatma Gandhi. Provisions are made for a toy train ride which is very popular among kids. At a height of 500 feet, it is a hot spot of tourist activity that offers a breathtaking view of the entire city.

Kanaka Durga Temple, Vijayawada

Situated at the banks of the river Krishna, atop Indrakeeladri is the famous Kanaka Durga temple. Commanding a panoramic view of the city the century-old temple is believed to have been constructed by Arjuna. The presiding deity of the temple is goddess Mahishasurmardini an incarnation of Goddess Durga and the eight-armed deity is believed to have self-manifested or is Swayambhu. It is one of the 108 Shaktipeethas in the country. Kanaka is gold in Sanskrit since the idol is golden in color and adorned with golden jewelry it got the name Kanaka Durga. It attracts several pilgrims and tourists, especially during the festivals of Navratri and Dasara.

Besant Road, Vijayawada

Throbbing with activity and dynamism this happens to be one of the prime trade centers of Vijayawada. Of late it has grown into the pivot commercial activity owing to a good number of eateries, cinema houses, and shopping centers. It houses as many as fifty cinema halls and is a paradise for movie buffs. Its multi-cuisine restaurants serve Indian and western delicacies. Punugulu, Bajji, Batina curry, Pani Puri are some major highlights in this area. With a wide variety of shopping options available it is the best place to buy great stuff at pocket-friendly prices. Because of an easily accessible location, it attracts a large number of visitors.

Hazratbal Mosque, Vijayawada

Located in the heart of the city of Vijayawada is the Hazaratbal Mosque, which is an important seat of faith for Muslims. The splendid structure is cast out of marble is a sheer architectural marvel. The mosque holds a significant position among the Muslim devotees because it houses a sacred relic of the Prophet Mohammed, the founder of Islam. The relic is put upon for public display once a year. It is believed that a devotee can get rid of even the most difficult problems of life by just catching a glimpse of the sacred relic. The mosque witnesses throngs of devotees from all over the world.

Rajiv Gandhi Park, Vijayawada

Situated along the banks of river Krishna it is a hotspot of activity and a must-visit tourist attraction. It is a complete package with its musical fountain, a mini zoo, dinosaur park, and aquarium. The park boasts of lush green verdant lawns set with neatly planted flower beds which accentuate its splendor. A special dinosaur park houses life-size replicas of ancient creatures that intrigue children. It also hosts a range of engaging activities such as gun shooting, rock falling, rides on the jeep and mini train, skating, playpen. It is a picture-perfect spot to chase away the blues and rejuvenate while enjoying the unique blend of nature and man's creativity.

Akkanna Madanna Caves, Vijayawada

Located at the foot of Indrakeeladri Hill, in the vicinity of Kanaka Durga Temple, the 7th-century twin rock-cut caves are present. They were constructed in the 17th century take their name after two ministers from the court of Quli Qutb Shah. The caves have been dedicated to the famous the Hindu Triumverate - Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. The upper and lower caves have unique architectural form and remain connected through a five-step staircase. The triple celled caves have sanctums with idols of the deities. They have pillared halls with no distinct ornamental moldings or decorative elements. The caves are among the prime attractions for the visitors owing to their historic relevance and fame.

Gunadala Matha Shrine, Vijayawada

Located in the hilly region of Gunadala it is also called Mary Matha Shrine of St. Mary’s Church. Dedicated to Mother Mary, the church is a reverent site for the Christians in Andhra Pradesh. The church remains perched on the top of a hill and can be spotted distantly by a huge iron cross installed on the peak. It is believed that the shrine has miraculous powers of reversing the curse of barrenness and healing the diseased. It also houses a museum which exhibits holy relics of the ancient period and valuable gifts offered by the devotees. It attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims during the grand ten-day festival organized to celebrate the Feast of Mother Mary.

Scrap Sculpture Park, Vijayawada

Located at the end of MG Road, is a unique waterside theme-based park where innovation and creativity have found new means of expression. Instead of discarding the scrap metal, the Municipal Corporation of Vijawavada decided to utilize them artistically. 25 sculptours from different parts of Andhra Pradesh have worked in collaboration to bring this to life. They made structures by assembling exhaust pipes, gear shafts, chassis rails, wheel rims. The easily available scrap has been metamorphosed into remarkable sculptures that leave one in awe. Camel, swan, antelope, flying horse, dragonfly have been created using the material which was dumped. It attracts several visitors and art enthusiasts from everywhere.

VMC Disney Land, Vijayawada

Located in Ajit Singh Nagar, VMC Disney Land is one of the most famed and largest water parks in the city. The park hosts separate swimming pools for adults and kids, professionals and beginners along with other water-oriented activities. Other attractions include roller tube slide, aqua dancing, tube rides, bull rides, engaging game activities, wave pools, and many more. The place also has parrot fortune-tellers, which remain flocked with curious visitors. Regular puppet shows are organized which are a major hit among kids. The premises also house a food court serving savory dishes and a gift shop from where souvenirs can be purchased.

PVP Square Mall, Vijayawada

Located on the MG Road the PVP Square Mall pulsates with energy. The mall is the biggest in the city has several stores offering unlimited options for the purchase of apparel, footwear, accessories, jewelry, electrical appliances, and other household goods. Spread over a vast area, it provides spacious multilevel parking. The mall has been designed innovatively and in an environmentally friendly manner to ensure easy accessibility. It is a complete family getaway destination with food, shopping, and entertainment available under one roof. It has a well-maintained food court serving a variety, a dedicated gaming section, and a 6 screen multiplex which takes care of the entertainment of the visitors.

Ripples Mall, Vijayawada

Located on the MG Road the mall is a good place to hang out with family and friends. It witnesses good footfall, especially during the weekends. It is a one-stop destination for shopping, eating, gaming, and entertainment. It houses several stores dealing in traditional wear, western wear, well being, electronics and gadget, health and beauty, jewelry,home furnishing, gifts, home appliances, etc. The popular brands present here include Max Fashion, Peter England, Van Huesen. A food court serves a variety of cuisines to satisfy the hunger pangs of the visitors. A separate games section for the kids is quite an attraction here. It also houses PVR Cinemas with 4 screens for entertainment.

Mangalagiri, Vijayawada

Located at a distance of about 17 km Mangalagiri is a small town nestled between the twin cities of Vijayawada and Guntur. It is a prime suburb section of the cities of Vijayawada and Guntur and also constitutes a part of the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region. It derives its name from Mangala meaning Auspicious and Giri meaning Hill in the local language and is known to have existed since 225 B.C.Town is acclaimed for its exquisite Handloom weaving and the famous Lord Narasimha Swamy Temple. It is believed that the temple is being worshipped since the Satya Yuga. The beautiful handwoven Mangalagiri cotton sarees are very famous and most preferred gift items purchased by the tourists.

Subramanya Swami Temple, Vijayawada

Located on the foothills of Indrakiladari the temple enshrines the Lord of serpents, Kartikey or Murugan. Made out of shining white marble the interior and the exterior of the structure are inlaid with detailed intricate carvings and are an architectural masterpiece. The temple commands captivating views of forest,mountains, river, valley, and waterfalls which increase the tranquility of the place manifold. It also houses a silver-coated Garuda Stambha, a holy pillar that has special significance. An anthill which is a natural abode of snakes is maintained in the temple premises and is worshipped with great belief. It attracts several visitors and pilgrims from the world over, especially during festivals.

Hinkar Thirtha Jain Temple, Vijayawada

Located atop the Mangalagiri Hills, Krishna District, Vijayawada it is the biggest Jain temple in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Mula Nayak and exhibits the conventional Jain style of architecture. It is a splendid piece of art made of white marble adorned with beautiful intricate carvings. A Manastambha in installed at the front of the temple and is a symbol of respect. The pillars of the temple have figures of gods and goddesses carved on them. The temple has a sanctum called Gambhara, where the stone idol of the deity is enshrined. Surrounded by the lush green hillocks, enveloped in tranquility the temple attracts several visitors and devotees from all over.