Visakhapatnam, which is the largest city of Andhra Pradesh, is one of India’s most industrialised cities. It is also very popular among tourists because it houses many tourist attractions, including beaches, museums and temples. This city has a storied history and boasts of a unique tradition because its heritage is multicultural. Settles from Bengal, Punjab, Orissa and southern India have given it a unique ambience. Visakhapatnam was an important city during historical times as it was a vital trade hub. Visakhapatnam is ‘Goa of the East’ because just like Goa, it has beautiful beaches, and tourists are made to feel very welcome in this city.
Things to do in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam is going to offer you the time of your life. If you are an adrenaline junkie, you can opt for water sports like windsurfing, parasailing or water skiing at Rishiconda Beach. Next, you should try out the Ropeway ride to Kailasagiri. If you want a bird’s eye view of this beautiful city, head to the top of the Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse. If you are interested in the cultural history of Visakhapatnam, you can learn a lot about tribal history at the Araku Tribal Museum. History lovers will also be delighted by the ruins of the 2 millennia old Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery. Explore a slice of the aquatic world at Matsya Darshini. Don’t forget to visit the Victory at Sea Memorial.
Tourist attractions in Visakhapatnam
Must-visits in Visakhapatnam are the Borra Caves which are a natural miracle and attract numerous tourists, Araku Valley, Yarada Beach, Rishikonda Beach which is immensely popular among tourists for its vibrant beach culture, adventure sports and its rocky seashore, Rama Krishna Beach which acts as a great setting for young tourists to hang out and party. Trying out the local street food at the stalls near the beaches is a must. You must also visit VMRDA INS Kursura Submarine Museum where you can learn a lot about the life inside a submarine, the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, the Dutch Cemetery and Shri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple.
Places to shop in Visakhapatnam
Popular shopping zones in Visakhapatnam are CMR Mall (for jewellery, branded clothes for all and accessories), Old Book Market (if you are a book lover and want rare books at affordable rates) and Jagadamba Centre or Lerpakshi Handicrafts (for tribal or local artwork).
Best time to visit Visakhapatnam
The best time to visit Visakhapatnam is between October and March when the weather isn’t too hot.
Modes of transport
Visakhapatnam is a major city and that is why you will find different modes of transport here such as private and government buses, trains, taxis, auto-rickshaws. Also, you can book app cabs to get around the city.
Weather in Visakhapatnam
Because of Visakhapatnam’s location close to the sea, summers are hot and humid. The temperature climbs to 36 degree Celsius. Winters in this city are quite warm too and the minimum temperature does not go down beyond 29 degree Celsius. The city faces 4-5 cyclones every year.
Airport in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam International Airport (IATA: VTZ) is this city’s major airport.