Visakhapatnam, often called as Vizag, is a beautiful coastal city in Andhra Pradesh, India. Vizag is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture and offers numerous tourist attractions. Here are the top ten must-visit places in Visakhapatnam:
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park Located in the Kambalakonda area, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is perfect for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. It’s surrounded by the Eastern Ghats on three sides and the Bay of Bengal on the fourth. The park houses a variety of primates, small mammals, carnivores, and herbivores, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
- Katiki Waterfalls standing 50 feet high, is a nature lover’s delight. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and originate from the Gosthani River, which passes through the Borra Caves. The clear water cascading down the black and brown rocks creates a mesmerizing view, perfect for a refreshing hike.
- Rishikonda Beach, about 8 kilometers from the city center, is a pristine white sand beach perfect for relaxation. It’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, bird watching, and adventure sports like water skiing and windsurfing. The clear blue skies and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit.
- VUDA Park, also known as Vermada Park, is an adventure lover’s paradise. Spanning 55 acres, the park offers activities like skiing and heli tourism. Don’t miss the famous musical waterfall and the beautiful ice skating rink. It’s a great place to spend a fun-filled day with family and friends.
- Dolphin’s Nose Located between Yarada and Gangavaram Port, Dolphin’s Nose is a massive hill resembling a dolphin’s nose. Clearly visible from RK Beach, it acts as a cliff over the sea and is a popular spot for adventures and picnics. Its unique shape and historical significance make it one of the best places to visit in Vizag.
- Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Devasthanam Situated on the Simhachalam hill range, this Hindu temple is dedicated to Vishnu, worshipped as Varaha Narasimha. According to legend, Vishnu appeared in this form to save his devotee Prahlada from his father’s attempt to kill him. The temple is a significant religious site and attracts many devotees.
- INS Kursura Submarine Museum INS Kursura (S20) was a Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarine of the Indian Navy. It was commissioned on December 18, 1969, and decommissioned on February 27, 2001, after 31 years of service. Post-decommissioning, it was dedicated to the nation and transformed into a museum on RK Beach on August 9, 2002. It’s one of the few submarine museums in the world that retains its originality, making it a must-visit in Visakhapatnam.
- Thotlakonda is an ancient Buddhist complex on a hilltop overlooking the sea. Dating back almost 2,000 years, it was part of the ancient Kalinga empire, which spread Buddhism in Southeast Asia. Excavations have revealed Roman-era silver coins, terracotta tiles, and miniature stupa models, highlighting its historical importance.
- Yarada Beach is about 15 kilometers from the city and is nestled in the serene Yarada village. Bordered by the Bay of Bengal on one side and hills on the other three, it offers a peaceful escape for tourists and locals. Its calm environment and natural beauty make it a favorite spot for relaxation.
- Kailasagiri is a hilltop park developed by the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority. Covering 380 acres with lush flora, the park offers stunning views of the city from 173 meters above sea level. It was awarded the best tourist spot in Andhra Pradesh in 2003 and receives around 300,000 visitors annually.
