On the coast of the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam is the largest city in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is also known as Vizag. The city is a major industrial hub with the presence of industries like petrochemical, fertiliser, shipping, steel and oil refinery. Visakhapatnam is one of the oldest port cities in the country and serves as the headquarters for the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. Further, Visakhapatnam has several ancient Buddhist relics and prehistoric caves. The origin of the city goes back to the 5th century BCE. The serene beaches and beautiful landscapes attract tourists from all over the country.
Things to do in Visakhapatnam
Visit the Simhachalam Temple for a holy darshan. Witness the amazing rock formation at Borra Caves. Go on a trip to Kailasagiri to behold the mesmerising views of the Eastern Ghats merging into the sea. Further, go on a tour to Araku Valley and explore the pristine nature. See the excellence of the Indian Navy at the INS Kurusura Submarine Museum. Spend some leisure time at the beaches like Ramakrishna, Yarada, Gangavaram and Rushikonda.
Tourist attractions in Visakhapatnam
The popular tourist attractions in and around Visakhapatnam include Simhachalam Temple, INS Kurusura, Kailasagiri Hill, Borra Caves, Araku Valley, Katiki Waterfalls, Ramakrishna Beach, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, Bavikonda, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Rushikonda Beach, Bojjannakonda, Thotlakonda and Lingalakonda.
Places to shop in Visakhapatnam
The prime shopping hubs in Visakhapatnam are Waltair Uplands Road, CMR Central, Shoppers Stop and Kurupam Market. The Lepakshi Handicraft Emporium is the most authentic place for handicrafts, tribal jewellery, Kondapalli toys, ethnic clothes and souvenirs. The store is managed by the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation.
Best time to visit
The months between October and March are considered as the best time to visit Visakhapatnam.
Modes of transport
The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates a good network of buses across Visakhapatnam. Further, auto-rickshaws, app-based cabs and rental taxis are the convenient modes of transport in the city.
Weather in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam observes a tropical wet and dry climate. The city remains extremely hot and humid in summers with the temperature soaring beyond 45 degrees Celsius. Visakhapatnam experiences heavy rainfall and cyclones from June to October. The weather in the city turns very pleasant during winters (November to February).
Airport in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam Airport (IATA: VTZ) is located about 12 km from the city. IndiGo operates more than 100 weekly non-stop flights between Visakhapatnam and other major cities in the country.