bigtravelbuzzVisakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a coastal city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is located on the east coast of India and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. Here are some things to know about Visakhapatnam:
- Beaches: Visakhapatnam is home to several beautiful beaches, including Ramakrishna Beach, Rishikonda Beach, and Yarada Beach. These beaches are popular among tourists and locals alike for their scenic beauty and water sports activities.
- Tourist Attractions: Visakhapatnam is home to several popular tourist attractions, such as the INS Kurusura Submarine Museum, the Kailasagiri Hill Park, the Araku Valley, and the Borra Caves. These attractions offer a glimpse into the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
- Local Cuisine: Visakhapatnam is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes such as seafood, biryani, and pootharekulu. Some popular restaurants to try out include Dakshin, Rayalseema Ruchulu, and Vindu.
- Festivals: Visakhapatnam is a city with a rich cultural heritage and is home to several festivals throughout the year. Some popular festivals include the Visakha Utsav, the Lumbini Festival, and the Naval Dockyard Festival.
- Transportation: Visakhapatnam is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Visakhapatnam International Airport serves as the main airport for the region. The city also has a railway station, which connects it to major cities across India. Local transportation options include buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.
These are just a few things to know about Visakhapatnam. The city has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to nature lovers. Looking for more places in Arunachal Pradesh? Have a look on our guide to Tawang here.
Places to Visit in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a city with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some popular places to visit in Visakhapatnam:
- Submarine Museum: The INS Kurusura Submarine Museum is a unique museum that gives visitors a chance to explore an actual submarine. The museum is located on the RK Beach and is a popular attraction in Vizag.
- Kailasagiri Hill Park: Kailasagiri Hill Park is a scenic hilltop park that offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea. The park is home to several attractions, including a giant statue of Lord Shiva and a ropeway that takes visitors to the top of the hill.
- Araku Valley: The Araku Valley is a scenic hill station located about 120 km from Vizag. It is known for its natural beauty, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. Visitors can take a scenic train ride to Araku or drive through the winding roads of the Eastern Ghats.
- Borra Caves: The Borra Caves are located in the Ananthagiri hills, about 90 km from Vizag. The caves are known for their unique limestone formations and are a popular destination for adventure seekers.
- Ramakrishna Beach: Ramakrishna Beach is a popular beach in Vizag that offers a variety of water sports activities, such as jet skiing and banana boat rides. The beach is also home to several food stalls that serve delicious local cuisine.
- Simhachalam Temple: The Simhachalam Temple is a famous Hindu temple located on a hilltop about 16 km from Vizag. It is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
These are just a few popular places to visit in Visakhapatnam. The city has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers to adventure seekers.
Best Time To Visit Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a beautiful coastal city located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The city experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid summers, and moderate winters. The best time to visit Visakhapatnam depends on your preferences and what you want to do while you’re there.
The ideal time to visit Visakhapatnam is from October to March, which is the winter season. The weather during this time is pleasant, and the temperatures range between 15°C to 30°C, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It is also a great time to enjoy the beaches and explore the city’s many tourist attractions.
If you’re interested in visiting during the monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, you can enjoy the lush greenery and the scenic beauty of the city. However, it’s important to note that the heavy rainfall during this time may disrupt your travel plans and outdoor activities.
Visakhapatnam experiences hot and humid summers from April to June, with temperatures rising to as high as 45°C. It is not recommended to visit during this time as it can be uncomfortable and tiring to explore the city.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Visakhapatnam is from October to March, during the winter season, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a beautiful city located on the east coast of India. It offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and modern development. Here are some of the top things to do in Visakhapatnam:
- Visit the Submarine Museum: The Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam is a one-of-a-kind museum that showcases a decommissioned submarine that was in service with the Indian Navy. Visitors can tour the submarine and learn about the history of submarines in the Indian Navy.
- Explore the Kailasagiri Hill: Kailasagiri Hill is a popular tourist spot in Visakhapatnam that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. You can take a cable car to the top of the hill and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Visit the Borra Caves: Borra Caves is a fascinating natural wonder located near Visakhapatnam. The caves are famous for their stalactites and stalagmites, and visitors can explore the caves on foot.
- Relax on the Beaches: Visakhapatnam is known for its beautiful beaches, including Rama Krishna Beach, Rushikonda Beach, and Yarada Beach. You can relax on the beaches, take a dip in the sea, and enjoy some local snacks.
- Learn about the Local Culture: Visakhapatnam has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about it by visiting the Visakha Museum, the Tribal Museum, and the Matsyadarshini Aquarium.
- Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Visakhapatnam offers a unique culinary experience with a wide range of local delicacies. Some popular dishes include Andhra-style biryani, gongura pachadi, and Bobbatlu.
- Attend Festivals: Visakhapatnam is known for its vibrant festivals, including the Visakha Utsav, which celebrates the cultural heritage of the city. Other festivals include the Lumbini Festival, the Beach Festival, and the Navy Day celebrations.
- Visit the Simhachalam Temple: The Simhachalam Temple is a famous temple located on a hill near Visakhapatnam. It is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, and visitors can admire the intricate carvings and sculptures in the temple.
- Enjoy Water Sports: Visakhapatnam offers a range of water sports activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. You can enjoy these activities at the Rushikonda Beach and Yarada Beach.
- Take a Day Trip to Araku Valley: Araku Valley is a picturesque hill station located near Visakhapatnam. It offers scenic views, coffee plantations, and a waterfall. You can take a day trip to Araku Valley and enjoy the natural beauty of the place. Looking for more places in Arunachal Pradesh? Have a look on our guide to Changlang here.
How to Get Around in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam has a well-connected public transportation system, and visitors have several options to get around the city. Here are some ways to get around in Visakhapatnam:
- Local buses: The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates local buses in Visakhapatnam. These buses are a cost-effective way to get around the city, and they connect most parts of the city.
- Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Visakhapatnam. They are available throughout the city and are ideal for short distances.
- Taxis: Taxis are available in Visakhapatnam, and they are a more comfortable option for traveling longer distances. Visitors can book taxis through popular ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber.
- Rental cars: Visitors can rent a car in Visakhapatnam to explore the city at their own pace. Several car rental companies operate in the city, and they offer a range of vehicles to choose from.
- Metro Rail: The Visakhapatnam Metro Rail is currently under construction, and it will provide an additional mode of transportation in the city once it is operational.
- Walking: Some areas of Visakhapatnam, like the beach promenade, are best explored on foot. Walking is also a great way to explore the city’s markets and bazaars.
- Bicycle rentals: Some vendors in the city offer bicycle rentals, and this is an eco-friendly way to explore the city. However, visitors should exercise caution while cycling on the busy streets of Visakhapatnam.
Where to eat in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam is known for its unique Andhra-style cuisine, which is spicy and flavorful. Here are some of the best places to eat in Visakhapatnam:
- Dakshin: Dakshin is a popular restaurant that offers a variety of Andhra-style dishes, including biryani, curries, and seafood. The restaurant has a traditional ambiance and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
- Bamboo Bay: Bamboo Bay is a beachside restaurant that offers a range of seafood dishes, including prawns, fish, and crabs. The restaurant has a relaxed vibe, and visitors can enjoy their meals while watching the sunset.
- Daspalla: Daspalla is a popular restaurant that offers a range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and continental. The restaurant has a modern ambiance and is ideal for families and large groups.
- Tycoon Multi-Cuisine Restaurant: Tycoon is a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers a range of Indian and international dishes. The restaurant has a lively ambiance, and visitors can enjoy their meals while listening to live music.
- Infinity: Infinity is a rooftop restaurant that offers stunning views of the city. The restaurant serves a range of Indian and continental dishes, and it is known for its extensive buffet spread.
- Coastal Kitchen: Coastal Kitchen is a popular restaurant that offers a range of seafood dishes, including fish curry, prawn fry, and crab masala. The restaurant has a casual ambiance and is ideal for budget travelers.
- Pelliwala: Pelliwala is a restaurant that specializes in Andhra-style biryani. The restaurant offers a range of biryanis, including chicken, mutton, and prawn, and it is popular with locals and tourists alike.
- Flying Spaghetti Monster: Flying Spaghetti Monster is a restaurant that specializes in Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a range of pasta dishes, pizzas, and desserts, and it has a quirky ambiance.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Visakhapatnam, and visitors can explore the city’s culinary scene to discover more hidden gems.
Famous street stalls in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a coastal city in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is well-known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and delicious street food. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Visakhapatnam:
- Punugulu: Punugulu is a popular snack in Visakhapatnam made with rice and urad dal batter, which is fried until it becomes crispy and golden brown. It is usually served with a spicy chutney.
- Pani Puri: Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa, is a favorite street food in Visakhapatnam. It is a crispy hollow puri filled with spicy water, potatoes, and chutneys.
- Mirchi Bajji: Mirchi Bajji is a spicy snack made with green chilies dipped in a gram flour batter and deep-fried. It is usually served with a tangy tamarind chutney.
- Dosa: Dosa is a famous South Indian dish that can be found at many street stalls in Visakhapatnam. It is a thin, crispy crepe made with a fermented rice and lentil batter and served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Andhra-style Chicken: Andhra-style chicken is a spicy and flavorful chicken dish that is popular in Visakhapatnam. It is made with a blend of spices and served with rice or naan.
- Idli: Idli is a popular South Indian breakfast dish made with a fermented rice and lentil batter that is steamed until it is soft and fluffy. It is usually served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Kachori: Kachori is a popular snack in Visakhapatnam made with a flaky pastry filled with spiced mashed potatoes, peas, and other ingredients.
- Jalebi: Jalebi is a sweet and crunchy dessert that can be found at many street stalls in Visakhapatnam. It is made by deep-frying a wheat flour batter in circular shapes and then soaking them in a sugar syrup.
These are just a few examples of the delicious street food that you can find in Visakhapatnam. There are many more street stalls in the city that offer a variety of tasty snacks and dishes.
Luxury accommodation
Visakhapatnam has a range of luxury accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some suggestions for luxury accommodation in Visakhapatnam:
- The Park Visakhapatnam: The Park Visakhapatnam is a 5-star hotel located on the beachfront. It offers luxurious rooms, suites, and villas with sea views. The hotel also features a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and an outdoor swimming pool.
- Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach: The Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach is a 5-star hotel located on the beachfront. It offers modern and stylish rooms and suites with ocean views. The hotel also features a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and an outdoor swimming pool.
- Taj Gateway Hotel Beach Road: The Taj Gateway Hotel Beach Road is a 5-star hotel located on the beachfront. It offers elegant rooms and suites with sea views. The hotel also features a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and an outdoor swimming pool.
- Four Points by Sheraton Visakhapatnam: Four Points by Sheraton Visakhapatnam is a 5-star hotel located in the city center. It offers contemporary rooms and suites with city views. The hotel also features a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and an outdoor swimming pool.
- WelcomHotel Grand Bay: WelcomHotel Grand Bay is a 5-star hotel located on the beachfront. It offers spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites with sea views. The hotel also features a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and an outdoor swimming pool.
These are just a few examples of the luxury accommodations available in Visakhapatnam. Other options include The Westin Visakhapatnam, Fairfield by Marriott Visakhapatnam, and Dolphin Hotel.
Where to stay in Visakhapatnam
Budget accommodation
Visakhapatnam offers many options for budget accommodation that are clean, comfortable, and affordable. Here are some suggestions for budget accommodation in Visakhapatnam:
- Hotel Budhil Park: Hotel Budhil Park is a budget hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with all basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi.
- Daspalla Executive Court: Daspalla Executive Court is a budget hotel located in the commercial district of Visakhapatnam. It offers well-appointed rooms with all basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Silverline: Hotel Silverline is a budget hotel located in the city center. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with all basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Winsar Park: Hotel Winsar Park is a budget hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with all basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Kinnera Comforts: Hotel Kinnera Comforts is a budget hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with all basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi.
These are just a few examples of the budget accommodation available in Visakhapatnam. Other options include Hotel Akshaya, Hotel Lakshmi Paradise, and Hotel Meghalaya.
Travel Tips Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a beautiful city on the east coast of India. Here are some travel tips for visiting Visakhapatnam:
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Visakhapatnam is between October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
- Transportation: Public transportation is available in the city, including buses and taxis. Auto-rickshaws are also a common mode of transportation. It is advisable to use metered taxis or autos to avoid being overcharged.
- Beaches: Visakhapatnam is known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the popular beaches in the city include R.K. Beach, Bheemili Beach, and Yarada Beach. However, it is important to follow beach safety guidelines and avoid swimming in the sea during monsoon season or when there are high tides.
- Food: Visakhapatnam is famous for its seafood and South Indian cuisine. Some of the popular local dishes include Biryani, Gongura Pachadi, and Pesarattu. There are many restaurants in the city that offer a variety of cuisines to cater to different tastes.
- Sightseeing: There are many places to see in Visakhapatnam, including the famous INS Kursura Submarine Museum, Kailasagiri Hill Park, Simhachalam Temple, and Araku Valley. It is advisable to plan your itinerary in advance and make transportation arrangements to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Safety: Like any other city, it is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items and be careful in crowded areas.
- Language: Telugu is the local language in Visakhapatnam, but English and Hindi are also widely spoken and understood.
These are just a few travel tips to keep in mind while visiting Visakhapatnam. With its scenic beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality, Visakhapatnam is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.