Visakhapatnam, often referred to as the “City of Destiny,” is a stunning coastal gem nestled along the eastern coastline of India. Also Known as vizag , this city is known for its picturesque beaches, lush hills, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a perfect blend of nature and urban life. The city is dotted with pristine beaches like Rishikonda and Rishikonda, where golden sands meet the shimmering waters of the Bay of Bengal. Beyond its beaches, Visakhapatnam is also home to breathtaking landscapes, with the towering Eastern Ghats offering serene views and trekking opportunities. The city boasts a rich history, with historical landmarks such as the ancient Simhachalam Temple and the remnants of British-era structures. It is a hub for industry, commerce, and tourism, with a welcoming atmosphere for travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a taste of rich cultural experiences, Visakhapatnam is a place that captures the heart of every visitor.
1. Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy Vari Devasthanam
Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy Vari Devasthanam is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is located in the picturesque town of Simhachalam, near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees and holds significant religious and historical value. The deity here is a unique combination of Lord Varaha (the boar incarnation) and Lord Narasimha (the man-lion incarnation), known as Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy.
Location : The Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy Vari Devasthanam is located on Simhachalam Hill, about 16 kilometers north of Visakhapatnam in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India.
Timing : The Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy Vari Devasthanam at Simhachalam generally follows these timings:
- Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM (Temple is closed)
- Evening Darshan: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee : The Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy Vari Devasthanam at Simhachalam does not typically charge an entry fee for general darshan (worship).
2. Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse
Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse is a prominent lighthouse located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. Situated on a hill that rises about 175 meters above sea level, it offers spectacular views of the Bay of Bengal and the surrounding coastline. The lighthouse derives its name from the shape of the hill, which resembles the nose of a dolphin, hence the name Dolphin’s Nose.
Location : The Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse is located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Timing : The Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse is typically not open to the public for climbing, but visitors can enjoy the view from the surrounding area.
Entry Fee : The Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse itself does not charge an entry fee for visiting the surrounding area or the viewpoint.
3. INS Kursura Submarine Museum
The INS Kursura Submarine Museum is one of the unique attractions in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. Located on Ramakrishna Beach, the museum is set in a decommissioned Indian Navy submarine, INS Kursura (S20). This submarine is now preserved as a museum to give visitors a glimpse of naval life and the technological marvels of the Indian Navy.
Location : It is located in Ramakrishna Beach, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Timing : The INS Kursura Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam is open during the following hours:
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee : The entry fee for the INS Kursura Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam is as follows:
- Adults: ₹40
- Children (under 12 years): ₹20
4. Victory at Sea War Memorial
The Victory at Sea War Memorial is a significant landmark in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, dedicated to honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Indian Navy during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The memorial commemorates India’s naval victory over Pakistan and the successful blockade of Pakistan’s ports, which ultimately contributed to the victory in the war and the creation of Bangladesh.
Location : Victory at Sea War Memorial is located inRamakrishna Beach, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Timing : The memorial is open to visitors every day and can be visited during the day. The timings typically are from:
- Morning: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit the Victory at Sea War Memorial, making it a free attraction for visitors interested in learning about India’s naval history.
5. Borra Caves
Borra Caves are a popular tourist destination located in the Ananthagiri Hills of the Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, India. These natural limestone caves are renowned for their stunning stalactites and stalagmites formations and are one of the largest and most impressive caves in India.
Location : Borra Caves is located in Borra, Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Timing : The Borra Caves are open to visitors during the following hours:
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed: The caves are open every day of the week.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Borra Caves is as follows:
- Adults: ₹40
- Children (below 12 years): ₹20
6. Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is one of the most popular and well-maintained zoological parks in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. Located near the scenic Kailasagiri Hill and the Ramakrishna Beach, it offers an excellent opportunity to explore wildlife in a natural and serene environment.
Location : Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is located in Kailasagiri, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Timing : The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam is open during the following hours:
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam is as follows:
- Adults: ₹50
- Children: ₹20
- Camera Fee: ₹10 (if you wish to carry a camera inside)
7. Rushikonda Beach
Rushikonda Beach is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. Located about 8 kilometers from the city center, Rushikonda Beach is known for its golden sands, clear blue waters, and serene environment. It’s a perfect destination for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking to relax by the sea.
Location : Rushikonda Beach is located in Rushikonda, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Timing : Rushikonda Beach is open to visitors throughout the day, as it is a public beach. There are no specific entry timings.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Rushikonda Beach. It is a public beach, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, relax, and take part in various beach activities free of charge.
8. Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery
The Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery is an ancient Buddhist site located on a hilltop near Bojjannakonda in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the significant Buddhist archaeological sites along the Eastern Coast of India and holds historical and cultural importance due to its religious and architectural significance.
Location : Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery is located in Bojjannakonda, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Timing : The Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery is open to visitors during the following hours:
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery is as follows:
- Adults: ₹10
- Children: ₹51
Famous Food In Visakhapatnam
1. Punugulu
Punugulu is a popular and delicious snack from the coastal Andhra region, particularly in Visakhapatnam. These deep-fried, crispy fritters are made primarily from rice flour and urad dal (split black gram), giving them a unique texture and flavor.
Ingredients : rice flour , urad dal and baking soda
2. Muri Mixture
Muri Mixture is a popular, crunchy, and spicy snack from the coastal regions of India, including places like Visakhapatnam (Vizag). It’s a type of bhel mix or chewda made with puffed rice (muri), along with a variety of flavorful ingredients that make it a delightful snack. Muri Mixture is especially loved for its combination of textures and spices, and it’s often enjoyed with tea or as a street food snack.
Ingredients : puffed rice (muri) , chana dal and peanuts
3. Masala Batani
Masala Batani is a popular street food in Andhra Pradesh, including in Visakhapatnam (Vizag). It is a flavorful, spicy snack made from boiled green peas (batani), which are tossed with various spices and seasonings. The dish is typically served hot, making it a perfect comfort snack, especially in the cooler evenings or as a quick snack on the go.
Ingredients : Boiled green peas
4. Egg Bonda
Egg Bonda is a popular and delicious street food snack in Andhra Pradesh and other parts of South India. It’s a deep-fried snack made by wrapping boiled eggs in a spicy, seasoned chickpea flour (besan) batter, which is then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The crispy exterior contrasts wonderfully with the soft and creamy boiled egg inside. It’s typically served with green chutney or tomato ketchup.
Ingredients : Boiled egg , chickpea flour and rice flour
