Vijayawada
has many interesting places that make a nice tour to the city. In the
company of Granite Mountains, the historical monuments appear lively
with the hoary appeal. Be it museums containing relics, splendid temples
and mosques, engraved caves or modern structures, the city is full of
special charms. Once visited, these attractions would become part of
your most cherished memories. On your trip to Vijaywada, tourist
attractions would add to the excitement of the whole journey. Scroll
down to get more information about the sightseeing tours in Vijayawada.
Kanaka Durga Temple
Perhaps Kanaka Durga Temple is the most popular temple of the city.
Perched on Indrakiladri Hill, the temple provides a panoramic view of
Vijayawada. The presiding deity in the temple is Kanaka Durga, who is
considered as the Goddess of power, riches and benevolence. There are
several inscriptions inside the temple, representing different
dynasties. Though all festivals are observed here with full enthusiasm,
Dusshera deserves special mention. People from all parts of the region
come to visit this divine temple.
Prakasam Barrage
Prakasam Barrage presents a wonderful sight with its colossal size
across Krishna River. Finished in 1957, Prakasam Barrage comprises both
railway track and road. A Venetian look has been granted to the city by
a huge lake and three canals along the barrage.
Victoria Jubilee Regional Museum
Situated on Bandar Road, Victoria Jubilee Regional Museum has been set
up by the State Archaeological Department. It comprises beautiful
sculptures, attractive paintings, idols, weapons, cutlery and
inscriptions that date back to the 1st and 2nd centuries.
Bhavani Island
Perhaps Bhavani Island is the largest island in Krishna River. Located
near Prakasam Barrage, the island has been groomed up by Andhra Pradesh
tourism. It has some cottages that offer really cozy accommodation. A
boat ride to this island in itself would be an electrifying activity.
Gundala Church
Also known as St. Mary's Church, Gundala Church was earlier an
orphanage. It is to be found on the eastern side of the town on a
hillock. 'Our Lady of Lourdes' is an annual event observed at the church
that is attended by hundreds of people.
The Gandhi Stupa
Perched on Gandhi Hill, the Stupa was the first memorial built in the
memory of Mahatma Gandhi across the country. Here one can see the
teachings of the legend inscribed on stone slabs. Gandhi Memorial
Library, Planetarium, Sound and Light Show are the added attractions at
the hill.
Hazrathbal Mosque
Hazrathbal Mosque is an important holy place in Vijayawada. Special
attraction of the mosque is that it houses a sacred relic of Prophet
Mohammad that is exhibited once in a year. People from far and wide come
to pay their homage at the mosque.
Akkana and Madanna Caves
En route for Kanaka Durga Temple, Akkana and Madanna Caves are the
rock-cut caves built in the 17th century. Akkana and Madanna were
actually ministers in the court of Abdul Hasan Tanashah. These caves are
accompanied by one more cave that dates back to the 2nd century and
houses trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.
Rajiv Gandhi Park
Rajiv Gandhi Park is an educative park, erected by the Vijayawada
Municipal Corporation. Being at the entrance of the city, the park
welcomes the tourists with its impressive horticultural work. In the
company of mini zoo, playing area for children and a musical water
fountain, Rajiv Gandhi National Park is a favorite picnic spot amongst
the people.
Malleswaraswami Temple
In the proximity of Kanaka Durga Temple, the shrine of Malleswaraswami
is sited on Indrakiladri hill. Lord Mallikarjuna is known by the name of
Malleswara in the Puranas. The idol inside the shrine is believed to
have been installed by Yudhishthira (the eldest brother of the Pandavas)
to commemorate their victory in the South.
Vijayeswara Swami Temple
In the vein of other temples, Vijayeswara temple is positioned on
Indrakiladri Hill in Vijayawada. The installation of deity is regarded
to have been done by Arjuna to mark his victory with Lord Shiva as
'Kirata' (hunter).
Besant Road
Besant Road is the most busy and crowded roads of Vijaywada. In and
around this place, you can find about 50 cinema halls since theatres are
the major source of entertainment for people.
Subramanya Swamy Temple
One amongst the popular temples in Vijayawada, Subramanya Swamy Temple
is also sited Indrakiladri Hill. One can take a flight of steps to reach
the shrine. At the time of Skanda Shashti Festival, the temple receives
thousands of devotees from all nearby areas.
Sri Nagarala Sri Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru Temple
Located in Chiitinagar, Sri Nagarala Sri Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru Temple
is a significant shrine in Vijayawada. Dussehra, being the major
festival celebrated at the temple, attracts devotees from far and wide.