Sightseeing Exploration is the destination here. No matter how long your vacation is... it will always be too little to explore the whole of Vizag. Don't be surprised if you see the same smiling faces coming year after year. Just like you. The city has something for everybody... for every mood. So, let the journey begin. Rishikonda: Only 8 km from Vizag, Rishikonda has everything that the passionate traveller in you seeks - alluring beaches, hills and adventure water sports - skiing & wind surfing. The sea and hill cottages further enhance your holiday moments. Just right for your honeymoon or to rekindle those nostalgic moments. Boating Speed Boat Fee: Rs. 150 for 3 persons Cruiser Fee: Rs. 50 for Adult, Rs. 40 for Children per 30 mins run. Contact: +91 891 6514428 Cell: +91 9948042781, +91 9948392978 Bheemunipatnam: En route to Bheemunipatnam, the journey is as charming as the destination. The 25 km stretch from Vizag never once lets go of the beautiful coastline. Be sure you don't miss out on 'Erramattidibbalu' - a very creative formation of red sand. Stop by Bheemili, a sleepy little town with a rich colonial past. River Gosthani greets you as you enter Bheemili. While at Bheemili, visit the pilgrim centres, temples, old churches, clock tower, light house, and the port. Harbor and Dolphin’s Nose: A landmark sight in Visakhapatnam. It is a single and massive hillock, more than 350 m high, resembles a Dolphin’s nose. It protects the Visakhapatnam Harbour as well as the Head Quarters of Eastern Naval Command. Ross Hill, the highest mountain here has a mosque and a shrine of the Muslim sage Ishaque Madina. Ramakrishna Beach: This offers you the usual joys of the beach - sea, sand and shore... plus a Submarine Museum, Visakha Museum, Aquarium, numerous parks, War Memorial and statues of eminent personalities. Aquarium at Rama Krishna Beach: The aquarium here is a popular attraction for the children. They will learn all about the underwater lives. Curator: Sri. Varma Phone: +91 9849428880 Tariff: Adults: Rs 20/- Children: Rs 10/- (5 to 12 years) Video Camera: Rs 50/- Still Camera: Rs 20/- Timings: 10 am to 8 pm Light House: Built to warn the cargo ships that arrive at the city’s port of the troubled sea conditions, the lighthouse is much more than a utility. It captures the hearts of the locals and the occasional tourist who watch it swirl its beam across the moonlit sea, reminiscent of some past fables of love. Kailasagiri: Picture this... a lush green park over a 130 m high hill overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Could your soul ask for more? The presence of giant statues of the celestial couple, Siva and Parvathi, make Kailasgiri a must visit on your list. The place also offers a breathtaking view at night - a million lights and the enchanting waves further away. Other highlights include: Ropeway to the hill, art gallery, air-conditioned conference hall, a capsule lift to the highest view point, food court, art gallery and souvenir shops. Rope way: Yet another highpoint of Kailasagiri,the rope way is the third route to the Kailasagiri hilltop. It's a first of its kind in Andhra Pradesh as well as in the whole of coastal India. It offers a 360-degree view from the fibre-glass cabins while travelling up and down the 375 meter rope way. In addition, a circular train project provides a bird's eye view of whole of Vizag. Phone: +91 891 6510334 Timings: 11 am to 1.00 pm 1.00 pm to 2.00 pm (Lunch Break) 2.00 pm to 8.00 pm (Close) Entrance Tickets: Rs 55/- to & fro (Adult) Rs 28 /- (Children, 4 to 7 years) Rs 28/- only one side either up or down Adult or Child. Maintenance day: 19th of every month Circular Train Two Coaches (Non ac) Each Coach Capacity 30 persons. Entrance Fee Adult Rs 40/- Children Rs 30/- (3 to 10 years) Duration of Trip 20 minutes. Timings: 10 am to 9 pm (off season) 10 am to 10 pm (Peak season) Phone- +91 98488 8055 Panchadarla: About 52 km from Visakhapatnam, lies this quaint pilgrim centre, Panchadarla. Here one can view the oldest rock structure temple with water flowing in 5 directions, all 365 days, hence the name Panchadarla. Yarada: Yarada village, situated on the other side of the Dolphin Hill is famous for its natural beauty. The beach in front of the hill is called California beach, a natural cave is formed here. The sea view from the hills of Durgakonda and Venkateswara swamy is a feast to the eyes. Shivasagar Beach-Akkupalli: Amidst lush green fields surrounded with beautiful coconut trees and cashew plants on both sides of the road and philosophical tranquility is the Shivasagar Beach. A feast for those who love nature. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Srikakulam district. Uddanam (Malabar of A.P.): Aptly depicted as Malabar on the east coast. The Coastal line of more than 70 Km is sure treat along with Tekkali to Itchapuram with its lush green cashew. Cashew industry in Palasa and Aqua industry at places like Itchapuram are worth watching. Baruva Beach: Baruva is a picturesque beach resort in Srikakulam District. It is one of the most beautiful beaches for with a stretch of 193 km coastline. It is at a distance of 120 km from Srikakulam. Kalingapatnam: Srikakulam District has a sea coast of 193 km. A heritage town in Srikakulam district with the constructions of colonial rule is Kalingpatnam. It has a light house and from the top of it, visitors can enjoy the wonderful view of Sagar Sangamam of perennial river Vamsadhara. Bavanapadu: This is one of the most interesting beaches with a fishing harbour just 70 km from Srikakulam. Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple: The Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple at Burujupeta is worshiped as the Goddess of the Visakha city. The idol of the deity is said to have been installed in the early 18th century. Festival celebrating Kanaka Maha Lakshmi takes place during Margasira masa (November and December) every year. Visakha district attracts tourists with its scenic natural beauty. Temple authority: Sri Krishnaji Rao Phone: +91 891 2566515 / +91 891 2568645 Mobile: +91 9866663449 Timings: Darshan begins at 6 am till 11 am. No darshan between 11 am & 12 noon. 12 noon to 5.30 pm: Break Darshan No darshan between 5:30 pm & 6:30 pm. 6 pm to 9.00 pm: Darshan 9 pm to 11 pm: Free Darshan Thursday: Panchamrutham Puja at Rs 7200/- Other days: Panchamrutham Puja at Rs 2600/- Lord Ayyappa Swamy Temple: It is a beautiful temple of Lord Ayyappa Swamy located at Sheela Nagar, NH5 Road BHPV area. Puri Jagannadh Temple: Located close to the steel plant, this temple has been constructed by Utkal Samaj of Steel plant Employees for their beloved God Sri Puri Jagannadh. This temple resembles the original temple from Puri. While here do not forget to drop by Lord Shiridi Sai Baba Temple. Devipuram: It is a village named after the popular Goddess Devi Temple her. The Temple is constructed in Sri Chakra style with various Devi statues. Guest house accommodation is available for the visitor. The other attractions of the village are Kamakya Peetam and Lord Siva Temple in front of Goddess Devi Temple. Upamaka: It is small village named as Upamaka, Nakkapalli Mandal near NH5 towards Hyderabad. Here you can visit the oldest Temple of Lord Venkateswera & Venu Gopala Swamy. Matsyagundam: Matyagundam is known for its centuries old Sri Matyalingeswera Swamy Temple. The Mythological story is that a fight between the snakes (Sarparajulu) and fishes (Mastyarajulu) took place. The Mother fish brought all the fishes here from a place called “Gemmili” for safety from the snakes and ever since the fishes have lived here giving it the name Matsya Gundam. Maha Shivarathri is the biggest festival here, and is celebrated for three days. Celebrations include pujas and cultural programmes (locally called Jaatara). Baligattam: One of the oldest temples of Lord Brahma Lingeswera Swamy. It's located near Narsipatnam Mandal at uttara Vahini River Side. Rock structured Mandapam is the highpoint of this Temple. Arasavilli: This is the only Sun Temple of Arasavilli Suryanarayana Swamy in the whole region. What's unique about the temple is the way in which the sun rays enter the sanctum (Gharbagudi) and touch the feet of the presiding deity and gradually go up to the forehead of the idol. This happens twice a year. It's believed that those who witness this miracle are blessed by the deity. Masonic Temple: Incepted during medieval times, Freemasonry is a worldwide fraternal organization. Its members are joined together by shared ideals, both moral and metaphysical in nature, and in most of its branches. By a common belief in a supreme being. This age old group has been active in the city for the last 110 years. The Hamilton memorial on the beach road is being used as a Masonic temple where the freemasons gather regularly as a lodge. Sampath Vinayaka Temple: No new vehicle in the city moves without the blessings of Lord Sampath Vinayaka. Such is the faith that the people of the city have in this deity and such is this temple’s popularity. Phone: +91 891 2577106 E.O Sri Krishnaji Rao, Mobile: +91 9866663449 Chairman Sri T.S.Rajasekharan Srikurmam: Srikurmam is located in the Srikakulam district and is about a 100 km from Visakhapatnam. It derives its name from the Sri Kurmam temple of Lord Vishnu. Polamamba Temple: The Karakachettu Polamamba is an integral part of the city’s religious scene, touching the lives of hundreds of residents of the city. Goddess Polamamba the presiding deity of the temple is also the local goddess for the surrounding villages. The Polamamba Jatara, which is held every year in the temple, brings in crowds from a number of villages around the city. Timings: 5.00 am to 9.00 pm Tuesday: 4.00 am to 9.00 pm Annavaram: Situated on the banks of the river Pampa, this sacred Hindu pilgrim center is located on a hilltop - Ratnagiri. The Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy Temple here is visited by a large number of devotees every year. It is believed that one’s wishes would come true if a virata (fasting) is performed here. The main festivals here are Bhima Ekadasi, Kalynotavam and vysaka Ekadasi. Simhachalam Temple: Simhachalam temple is situated 16 km from Vizag amidst lush green hills. The beautifully carved 16-pillared dance hall and the 96-pillared cultural hall showcase the architectural brilliance of the era that used to be. The presiding deity is Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy. Umarukoteswaralayam, Srikakulam: Out of the five shivalingas blessed by Balarama along the bank of river Nagavali, this is the fourth one. Inscriptions on the Utsava idols tell the tale that this temple was found during the Salivahana Era. Popularly known as Kotilingala temple, it attracts large number of pilgrims during Mahashivaratri and Karthikamasam. Venkateswera Swamy Konda: The third important hillock of the city has a temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswera. According to the Telugu inscriptions, a British Captain Blackmoor built this temple in 1886. From here one can view the port channel which was the entrance of the inner harbor for ships and liners. Darga Konda: This magnificent hill has a mosque and a shrine dedicated to the Muslim saint Sayed Ali Medina alias Ishaque Madina, who is revered for his prophecies. This is the third of the trinity of hills. Gurudwara Sadh Sangat: The Gurudwara at seethammadhara is the city's most famous and frequented religious place of the sikhs. As the name aptly describes, these Gates to the Master” are always open, no matter who seeks refuge within the sanctum. Umalakshyeswaraswamy Alayam, Srikakulam: This temple was constructed 150 years back on the south bank of river Nagavali in Gujarathipeta by a saint. It is believed that by worshiping these Nagabandhams, couples are blessed with a child. Sri Venkatesweraswamy Alayam, Gujarathipeta: This temple which is situated on Narayana Thirumala Hill near river Nagavali is famous for being constructed on the lines of Thirumala. Before entering the main temple there is a big stature of “garuda” is said to be the tallest in AP. The main deity in Garbhagudi (sanctum sanctorum) is formed of black stone and is beautifully carved. Two Utsavamurthis of Padmavathi, Alivelumanga are present on both sides of main deity. Nadeeswaralayam, Bendi: Historical evidence establish the fact that this was constructed by Cholas. It is a 50 ft, rock cut ancient temple with beautiful architecture which resembles Someswaralayam of Srimukhalingam. Jagannadha Swamy Alayam, Tarlakota: Situated at the main entrance of the once upon opulent palace of Tarlakota is the Jagannadha swamy temple. The majestic structures with numerous carvings of religious deities of yore that adorn the walls of the temple with a touch of erotica. Balaji Temple, Tarlakota: It is the representation of the ancient cultural architecture of Odissi style gifted to Srikakulam district. This temple resembles the Radha Govindaswamy temple of Meliaputty. Vasudevamurthy Alayam: This beautiful temple was built by Raja Hara Mana Deo, the erstwhile Jamindar of Mandasa. We find the temple with myriad forms of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Unique feature of the temple is the presence of erotic figures on the walls of the temple. Kodandaramalayam, Sompeta: This temple occupies an important place in history. The outer side of the temple was lavishly decorated with sculptures of black stone. Seetharamaswamy Temple: The famous Seetharamaswamy temple was built by Bobbili kings 350 years ago. The idol of the presiding deity is unique as it is carved out of a single black granite stone with Seethamma sitting on the lap of Ramaswamy. The main temple bears an impressive array of beautiful sculptures. Sangamesweraswamy Alayam, Sangam: It is the third Shiva Linga blessed by Balarama along the banks of river Nagavali. The name of the place is derived from the confluence of three holy rivers Nagavali, Vegavathi and Suvarnamukhi. Sangamaiah, Sailada: It is a cave temple where Sangameswera Swamy was found inside the cave near Amadalavalasa. At the time of pongal every year, a 3 day festivals is celebrated. Gowrimaninageswera Temple Kallepalli: It is the 5th and last shivalinga out of 5 shivalingas blessed by Balarama at the end of Dwaparaugam along the bank of river Nagavali. The specialty here is that the shivalinga is in 2 parts in the form of Arthanareswera and it is believed that the first part is Shiva and second half is Parvathi. Srikurmam: It is the only temple in India where the tortoise incarnation of Lord Vishnu (Kurmavathara) is worshiped. The intricate carvings on the 108 black granite pillars of Parikrama are distinct and of special attraction to visitors. Madinababa darga: It is one of the most interesting tourist shrines where people of all religions worship. People have the belief that those who visit this place and take the blessings of Baba will have their wishes fulfilled. Hatakeswaraswamy Alayam, Singupuram: It is the only cave temple of Srikakulam district on Sindura hill inscriptions on the pillar establish that it was constructed during 11th century A.D. Every year in the month of Chaitram, Kalyasotsavam is celebrated for 9 days. Srimukhalingam, Dakshina Kasi: Srimukhalingam is popularly acclaimed Dakshina Kasi. The sculpture in the temple is virtual lyric on stone. The three most beautiful temples are famous for Kalinga architecture. Vendalamallikarjunaswamy Alayam Ravivalasa: It is one of the most revered pilgrim centres of Srikakulam district. Legends trace its origin to Tretayuga, the mammoth Sivalinga of this temple is believed to have been growing in height since its construction. Radhagovindaswamy Temple (Kajuraho OF AP): Radhagovindaswamy temple at Meliaputti was built by Veeraveerendra Pratap Rudra Gajapathi Narayana Deo. Popularly known as Kajaraho of AP. The exquisite carvings on the temple walls convey the message of the Vedas. The dome is decorated with 108 lotuses of which every flower is unique in its shape. The Vuda Childrens Park: If you are holidaying with kids... don't forget to visit this park. With dancing musical fountains, boating facility, skating ring and camel & horse rides - the kids are going to be thrilled. Tenneti Park: Located on the beach road, this is where you can enjoy your evenings with sea view and cool breeze. Also around are food courts and a big screen show where you can watch movies. Gangavaram: This is a paradise of every film marker and nature lover. Located near the steel plant, your most cherished beach fantasy comes true here. Gangavaram has a beautiful stretch of beach, lined with palm trees along the coast. One can laze on the hammock, while gentle waves play hide and seek with the coastline. Sivaji Park: A beautiful park with seasonal flowers and trees all around. Timings: 3.00 pm to 9.00 pm Entrance fee: Adults Rs 5/- Children Rs 3/- (5 to 12 years) Lumbini Park: It's a beach park near by Kailash hills, where one can have a good view of the Lord Buddha statues. Timings: 10.00 am to 10.00 pm Entrance fee: Re 1/- Padmapuram Gardens: This erstwhile vegetable supplying centre for the soldiers of Second World War is now a botanical garden. This repository of rare species of flora is a riot of colours and blossoms. Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Entrance fee: Adults Rs 10/- Children Rs 5/- Mudasarlova Water Park: Situated in a valley framed by hills, this picnic spot is famous for its pretty parks and scenery. Another highlight of the place is an excellent golf course. Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Entrance fee: Adults Rs 5/- Children Rs 2/- Chitrakote Tirathgarh Waterfalls: Chitrakote falls is a natural wonder situated about 330 km from Visakhapatnam. It is often referred to as a miniature Niagara falls. According to geologists the water was more than a hundred feet higher about a thousand years ago. Sunnapugedda & Mettuguda Waterfalls: One of the most beautiful sight seeing places for lovers of adventure tourism, surrounded with green forests and lush green paddy fields. MGM Selvee World: This is a must visit for those visiting the place with kids. With numerous joy ride and gardens, MGM Selvee World will be huge hit with the younger crowd. MGM Diamond Beach resorts (P) Ltd, Beach road, VUDA Park, Visakhapatnam – 530 017. Tel: +91 891 2505129 / 2720000 Fax: +91 891 2720009 Email: mgmsw@mgm.co.in Timings 11.00 am – 8.00 pm Monday to Saturday 10 am - 8.30 pm on Sunday and Public Holidays Tariff Rs 180/- Entry + 3 Rides Rs 30/- per head for APTDC's Customized Tourist VUDA Children's Theatre: Managed by Visakhaptnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA), this theater is exclusively meant to showcase the talented kids. In addition to the many child oriented programs, regular film shows for children are also held here. Entrance is free. Gurajada Kalakshetram: Gurajada Kalkshetram is an open air auditorium. This huge amphitheater that rises up in semi-circular tiers can seat 1200 people. And houses many a evening dedicated to art, drama and Telugu culture. Rightly named after one of the greatest writers of the literary world, Gurajada Venkata Appa Rao, this auditorium lives up to the tradition of culture and art that the great writer stood for. Indira Gandhi Zoological Park: This will delight the children and adults alike as you watch the wild Africa come alive. Situated in between NH-5 and Beach Road, the park spreads over an area of 625 acres. It has around 700 animals belonging to 89 species. Highlights: Deer safari, Nocturnal animals, Toy train, Drive across the zoo, Shanty Sarovar and Bay of Bengal view points. Telineelapuram, Bird Sanctuary: It is a tiny quiet village near Tekkali that plays host to the Pelican and the painted stork of Siberian migratory birds. It's a place of great interest for nature lovers. A must visit during winter. Kondakarla: Kondakarla in Atchutapuram mandal, is about 50 km from Visakhapatnam. Famous for its lake which attracts birds from far and wide, it's truly a breathtaking spectacle. Also present is the oldest temple of Sri Venkateswera swamy of Upmaka village. Kambala Konda: With a deer park, bird park, cozy cottages, canteen, environmental education, nature trails with well trained local guides this is quite a family destination. Everyone is sure to have fun here. Do not miss a visit to the nearby zoo here. Timings: 9.00 am to 5 pm Entrance fee: Adults Rs 10/- Children Rs 5/- Tatipudi Reservoir: Tatipudi Reservoir was commissioned in 1967. The yield from this source is 100,00 lakh gallons per day. Maximum water level of the reservoir +297.00 Ft Low water level of the reservoir +251.00ft Madduvalasa Reservoir: The largest natural reservoir of the district was commissioned in 1977. About 15000 acres of land is under cultivation with the advent of this project. Meghadrigada Reservoir: This source was commissioned in the year 1979. The drawl was increased to 100.00 lakh gallons per day in 1989. Maximum water level of the reservoir +61.00ft Low water level of the reservoir +44.00ft Tribal Museum: Tribal museum was started in February 1996 to showcase the traditional living methods, cultural, social and economic conditions of native tribes. This Museum is aimed to focus and preserve the important traits of original tribal culture, traditional handicrafts, and fine arts of the Ancient tribes. The display of artifacts, ornaments and textiles of the tribes of Northern Andhra Pradesh is a real feast to the eyes. Various artifacts prepared by different artisan groups are also sold here. Timings: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm Entrance fee Adults Rs 10/- Children Rs 6/- Kalabharathi: For the people of Vizag, Kalabharathi is a destination for culture and concerts. With a seating capacity of eight hundred, this comfortable air conditioned and sound proof hall is a popular destination for concerts, lectures, plays and dance recitals. Chitrangan Art Gallery: Chitrangan is an avenue for young and promising talents to showcase their art for a nominal fee. They also get to exhibit this to an appreciating crowd. A God sent opportunity for budding painters and sculptors. Lepakshi Handicrafts Emporium: This is one of the largest sales cum exhibition centres in the region, housing everything that has an Andhra connection. Art, handicrafts, sculptures, handlooms and a vast collection of metal and wooden creations made by Andhra artisans are housed here for sale. Silver filigree work is the most popular collection here. Eastern Art Museum: Visakhapatanam hasn't forgotten its glorious past. You'll realize this after a visit here. The museum not only has a beautiful display of the art and sculptures of Andhra, but displays an array of exquisite antiques and beautifully crafted curios, which are for sale. Visakha Museum: Located in R.K Beach Road, Visakha Museum gives a vivid picture of its historic moorings through a rare collection of artifacts, inscriptions and previous historic documents. Timings: 11.00 am to 7.00 pm Entrance Fee: Adult Rs 5/- Children Rs 2/- Andhra University: Located in a picturesque setting, this historic University is flanked by lush green hills on one side and the beautiful Bay of Bengal on the other. Established in 1926, Dr. S Radhakrishnan, the great educational and philosopher who went on to become the second president of India, was the second Vice-chancellor of this university. The University also conducts special research projects to save sea turtles during their breeding season. Phone: +91 891 2574871 / +91 891 2574875 Ramakrishna Mission: It has been more than a century since Swami Vivekananda gave his Chicago address. But his voice and message still reverberates throughout India, thanks to the Ramakrishna Mission that he started. This worldwide organization has a branch here too. Its ethnic architecture and its meditation hall exude peace. While its book store helps spread knowledge of our rich tradition and culture. St. Peter's Church: Constructed during the British regime between 1859 & 1864, the cynosure of this church is unique with its crimson exterior with exquisite stained glass windows. Each of the windows depicts anecdotes from the Bible. Mandasa fort: The residential palace of erstwhile Jamindars of Mandasa is a majestic building which was built by Lakshmana Rajamani Deo in 1779. Mandasa fort is an inspiring structure exuding the grandeur of bygone era. Surangiraja Palace, Itchapuram: At the entrance of the Itchapuram town is the magnificent heritage building, the palace of Surangiraja. Walls of the building are adorned with beautiful paintings describing aesthetic values of the bygone era. Deerghasi Sasanam: There is one ancient inscription of 1075 A.D. at Deerghasi village of Polaki Mandal. The inscription granted land to a village deity Bhagavathi Devi by an army chief of Kalinga Ganga kings. Kathanilayam, Srikakulam: “KATHANILAYAM” a reference library of Telugu short stories, is the first of its kind in the modern world. Established in 1997 by Dr.Kalipatnam Rama Rao, famous short story writer, it is a repository of Telugu short story and allied literature. Mahendragiri: Mahendragiri is the highest peak of eastern ghats at an altitude of 4923 ft above the sea level amidst a picturesque setting of the lush green forests. Ideal for lovers of trekking and adventure tourism. This place also has great significance on the day of Maha Shivaratri. Araku Valley: Soothe your sun tan in this cool hill station. It's a pleasant hill station with scenic gardens, green valleys, waterfalls and streams. 112 km from Visakhapatnam, the journey to Araku valley on the Eastern Ghats with thick forest on either sides is an exploration in itself. 3200 ft above the sea level, the climate here will make your trip worth every effort. Highlights: Tribal Museum. Chaaparai - a picnic spot 15 km from Araku. A peak into the lifestyle of the aboriginal tribes living here keeping their tradition and culture alive. About 19 tribes inhabit this area. Sway to the beats of the Dhimsa dance, an age-old folk dance. Divisional Manager Contact: +91 891 2788827 Chaparai: A perennial stream dodging and cutting across huge rock formations laid in the picturesque frame of Araku Valley is another preferred picnic spot. Located en route to Paderu, this is about 15 km from Araku. The pleasures of this perennial stream running over huge rocks through the scenic valleys of Araku are a delight to the senses. Several view points and Pagodas have also added more beauty to this place. Paderu: Paderu presents an excellent view with some interesting spots for trekking, bird watching, camping, and adventure sports in the wild. 120 km away from Visakhapatnam, Paderu Hills have dense forest cover with luxuriant vegetation. The vast stretch of coffee plantations is nature in its most beautiful form. Borra Caves: These one million year old rock formations are the prima donna of the Araku secenario. You will be amazed to see the natural rock formations culminating into popular mythological figures. Every year on Mahashivaratri, these caves are thronged by tribals from the surrounding area. The entire cave resonates with songs of joy and devotion. Timings: 10 am to 5.00 pm Entrance: Adults Rs 25/- Children Rs 15/- Video camera: Rs 100/- Still Camera: Rs 10/- Tyda: It is a small village nestling in the wooded hills of the Eastern Ghats, on the way to Araku and is 75 km from Vizag. Be at the Jungle Bells Nature Camp, an Eco-Tourism Resort to explore the nature's bounty. The camp provides great view of Eastern Ghats, trekking, hiking and bird watching in addition to accommodation in log huts amidst serene surroundings. Nature lovers got to come here. Anantagiri: Wake up and smell the coffee. It won't just be a phrase any more. The entire village is surrounded by coffee estates, while waterfalls adorn the hillocks around. Hill Resort Contact: +91 8936 231888 The Red Hills: The Red Hills (yerra konda) near Bhimili are a specialty. The red hills on the seashore are described as red dunes. The red sand hills of this type are found only at three places – Sri Lanka, Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu and the third here. Ross Hill: Ross Hill (also known as Kanyamarykonda) is the highest hill on the Eastern Ghats and is named after Ross, an Englishman who built his house here in 1864. Later the house was converted into a Roman Catholic Chapel and named “Our Lady of the sacred heat”. The path leading to the chapel is strewn with Catholic icons. One can have an excellent view of the ship building yard from Ross hill. Metturu Beach & Red Sand Dunes: Explore natural deposits of red sand dunes stretched along the shores of a stream. It is 8 km of visual feast. Red sand dunes deposited in various sizes for more than 8 km length give us the experience of seeing sculptures artistically moulded. Appikonda: This is a small village situated on the coast of Bay of Bengal, 30 km from Vizag. It owes its religious destination status to a Shiva temple that has a life size Nandi carved out of black stone. If you happen to be in this region sometime around Shivaratri, do make it a point to visit the temple, celebrations are grand. Kali Ma Temple: TIt is a beautiful temple built keeping in mind traditional Bengali temple architecture. Seek blessings from Kali Ma amidst this splendid beauty. Timings: 7.30 am to 11.30 am 4.00 pm to 8.00 pm Wooden Dolls of Etikoppaka: After the famous Kondapalli Bommalu of Andhra area, it's now the turn of the Etikoppa Bommalu. These dolls have been named after its village Etikoppaka, 75 km from Visakhapatnam. The dolls are made of soft wood Ankudi karra found in the forests of Araku and Anantagiri. More than 150 families earn their livelihood through making these beautiful dolls. Buditi Handicrafts: Buditi bronze work has made a place for itself in the national and international markets. The intricate waving in bronze is unique feature and the products are sought after by tourists as well as locals. Kurusura Submarine Museum: Yet another landmark of Visakhapatnam. The first of its kind in the whole south Asia, INS Kurusura Submarine is a Soviet built-I641 class Submarine. It was inducted into the Indian Navy on 18, December 1969 and decommissioned on 28, February 2001 after 31 years of glorious service to the nation. One can now view this classy submarine here at this museum, the complete Submarine including its weapon packages is hauled-up-from sea to land and positioned on a concrete foundation here. Contact Person: Sri Phani Raj Phone- +91 9866179234 Timings: 2.30 pm to 8.30 pm Sunday: 9.30 am to 8.30 pm Entrance Tickets: Adults -Rs 25/- Children - Rs 15/- Gottabarrage: Built in 1977 on Vamsadhara, the Gottabarrage irrigation projects is located amidst lush green mountains. The scenic beauty of the location gives immense pleasure with channels on both sides, flowing into agricultural fields of Srikakulam. Thotlakonda: About 16 km from Vizag on Vizag-Bheemili beach road lies this Buddhist Complex on the hilltop of Mangamaripeta, popularly known as Thotlakonda, 128 m above the sea level. Bavikonda: This important Buddhist heritage site is located on a hill about 15 km, north east of Vizag. Among other things you can discover here, the remains of an entire Buddhist complex, comprising 26 structures belonging to three phases. You can also view what is believed to be the mortal remains of Buddha. Jagathimetta, Buddhist Monument: On the banks of perennial river Vamsadhara a Buddhist site has been unearthed recently. The archaeological department is of the opinion that Jagathimetta is the earliest Buddhist site. Dantapuri: Dantapuri is the most ancient capital of Kalinga Ganga kings with a setting of paddy fields, on the banks of river Vamsadhara. During recent excavations the statue of 2nd Theerthankara, Ajathanadh and the four Buddhist stupas were found. It is located at a distance of 23 km from Srikakulam. Kurupam Tomb: It is beautiful structure tomb constructed by Kurupam Raja as a memorial for his wife. It is a 100 year old structure located at VUDA Park to Bhimili Road. This is called Visakha Taj Mahal. Sankaram, more popularly known as Bojjannakonda: This 2000-year-old Buddhist Heritage site was discovered in 1907. Located 40 km from the south of Vizag, three phases of Buddhism viz. Hinayana, Mahayana & Vajrayana flourished here. This complex is famous for its numerous Monolithic Stupas, Rock cut caves and structural edifices. Pavuralakonda: Pavuralakonda or 'the hill of the pigeons' is a hillock on the west of Bhimli, 24 km from Vizag. Visit this place to witness the remains of the Buddhist settlements between 1st century BC to 2nd Century AD. Padmanabham Village: Situated on the bank of river Gosthani, 16 km from north-west of Bheemunipatnam, this is where the Zamindar of Vizianagaram Vijayarama Raju died during his heroic battle with British East India Company. Anantha Padmanabha Swamy is located on a steep hillock where annual Deepotsavam festival is held. Ponduru: A small village Ponduru in Srikakulam district, is known for its finest Khadi. Khadi from Poduru is famous and preferred by Khadi lovers from across the country. Mahatma Gandhi was said to have been surprised at the finesse of Khadi produced here and he always preferred Khadi from this village. This Khadi is exported to various countries like America, Denmark, Japan and Sweden. Salihundam: It is one of the ancient Buddhist centres of India of second century B.C. Anakapalli: The place is famous for its Jaggery, one of the best in the country. Jaggery is exported to other states and foreign countries from here. Ahmedabad, Anakapalli, Bhagalpur, Kolhapur, Meerut and Muzafarnagar are some of the famous jaggery manufacturing centres in our country. Among them Muzarnagar in Uttar Pradesh, kolhapur at Maharashra and Anakapalli in Andhra are famous trade centres. Karteekavanam: About ten miles off the city, one is forced off the urban map and put in a village setting that is also a multi-cuisine restaurant. Karteekavanam is a restaurant with a difference. The scene is complete with rope beds, bullock carts and mud lanterns. The main restaurant and the other little hamlet sit outs strewn around are mud, clay and wooden structures with thatched roofs. Enjoy this rustic atmosphere with a most sumptuous meal. Phone: +91 891 5090747. Gopalapatnam: This is yet another destination with Buddhist imprints. Gopalapatnam, situated on the left bank of River Tandava, is a village surrounded by stupas, viharas and other Buddhist remains.