Best 22 Places to visit in Vizag
1.Yarada Beach
Location:Yarada Beach is situated about 15 kilometers from the heart of Vishakhapatnam, easily accessible by road. Nestled between the sea and hills, it offers unique panoramic views and a secluded atmosphere perfect for a day trip or getaway.
Attraction:From its golden sand shores and crystal-clear waters to the surrounding lush green hills, Yarada Beach is a captivating sight. Popular activities include beach photography, watching the sunrise, and leisurely strolls along the scenic coastline.
Timing:The beach is open to visitors 24 hours a day, making it accessible for sunrise or sunset viewing. However, the ideal visiting time is between 6 AM and 6 PM, when daylight brings out the beauty of the surroundings.
Entry fee:Yarada Beach is a public beach, and there is no entry fee. However, a nominal parking charge applies for those bringing their own vehicles, ensuring that visitors have a hassle-free experience.
2. Katiki Waterfalls
Location:Katiki Waterfalls is located approximately 38 kilometers from Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh, accessible by road and a short trek through lush forests.
Attraction:The waterfall's crystal-clear pool, rocky terrain, and dense greenery make it a popular spot for trekking, swimming, and photography amidst nature
Timing:Katiki Waterfalls is open to visitors from 6 AM to 5 PM daily, providing ample time to explore and enjoy the surroundings.
Enrty fee:While there is no entry fee to visit the waterfall itself, visitors may incur a nominal fee for parking and, if using a guide, trekking assistance.
3. Araku Valley
Location:Araku Valley is situated about 120 kilometers from Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, accessible by a scenic drive or train journey through the lush Eastern Ghats.
Attraction:Key attractions include the Tribal Museum, Borra Caves, coffee plantations, and scenic viewpoints that showcase the natural beauty of the valley.
Timing:The valley is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is most pleasant.
Entry fee:Araku Valley itself has no entry fee, but some attractions like the Tribal Museum and Borra Caves have a nominal entry charge for maintenance and upkeep.
4. Kailasagiri
Location:Kailasagiri is located about 10 kilometers from the center of Vishakhapatnam, easily accessible by road and even offers a ropeway option for a unique journey.
Attraction:The main attractions include the enormous Shiva-Parvati statue, ropeway rides, toy train rides, and multiple viewpoints overlooking the sea and city.
Timing:The park is open daily from 6 AM to 7:30 PM, allowing ample time for visitors to explore and enjoy its various attractions.
Entry fee:While entry to Kailasagiri Park is free, there are fees for specific activities like the ropeway, toy train, and certain viewing areas for maintenance and upkeep.
5. Submarine Museum
Location:The Submarine Museum is located on Ramakrishna Beach in Vishakhapatnam, easily accessible by road from the city center.
Attraction:Main attractions include guided tours of the submarine’s control room, torpedo sections, and crew quarters, along with exhibits on Indian naval history.
Timing:The museum is open from 2 PM to 8:30 PM on weekdays and from 10 AM to 8:30 PM on weekends, providing flexible visiting hours.
Entry fee:A nominal entry fee is required for visitors, with separate pricing for adults and children, helping with the museum’s maintenance and operation.
6. Indira Gandhi Zoological park
Location:Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is located about 9 kilometers from the center of Vishakhapatnam, nestled in the scenic Eastern Ghats and accessible by road.
Attraction:Key attractions include enclosures for big cats, reptiles, aviary sections, and an impressive butterfly park, with opportunities for educational tours.
Timing:The zoo is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, except on Mondays when it remains closed for maintenance.
Entry fee:There is an entry fee for visitors, with separate pricing for adults, children, and camera usage, contributing to the zoo’s maintenance and conservation efforts.
7.Vuda Park
Location:VUDA Park is located along RK Beach Road in Vishakhapatnam, making it easy to reach by road and accessible from the city center.
Attraction:The park’s main attractions include a skating rink, boating lake, musical fountain, and play areas for children, offering diverse activities for all ages.
Timing:The park is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore its numerous amenities and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Entry fee:There is a nominal entry fee, with additional charges for specific attractions like the skating rink and boating, helping to maintain the park’s facilities.
8.Simhachalam Temple
Location:Simhachalam Temple is situated about 20 kilometers from Vishakhapatnam’s city center, easily accessible by road and nestled atop Simhachalam Hill.
Attraction:Main attractions include the deity of Lord Varaha Narasimha, the intricately designed temple architecture, and the Chandanotsavam festival, which draws large crowds.
Timing:The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 9 PM, allowing ample time for darshan and exploration.
Entry Fee:While general entry is free, there is a nominal fee for special darshan and entry to certain areas of the temple, helping with maintenance and festival arrangements.
9.Rishikonda Beach
Location:Rishikonda Beach is located about 8 kilometers from Vishakhapatnam, along the Bheemili road, making it easily accessible by road.
Attraction:The main attractions include water sports, scenic hill views, and golden sandy shores, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Timing:The beach is open to visitors throughout the day, but the ideal time to visit is between 6 AM and 6 PM for safe and enjoyable beach activities.
Entry Fee:There is no entry fee for the beach itself, though charges apply for water sports and parking, helping to maintain the facilities and safety equipment.
10.Rama Krishna Mission Beach
Location:Rama Krishna Mission Beach is situated in the heart of Vishakhapatnam, along Beach Road, making it easily accessible by road.
Attraction:Key attractions include the Submarine Museum, Kali Temple, and aquarium, along with a spacious beachfront for walks and picnics.
Timing:The beach is open to visitors at all hours, but the ideal time to visit is from 6 AM to 7 PM for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Entry Fee:There is no entry fee for RK Beach itself, although nearby attractions like the Submarine Museum have their own separate entry charges for maintenance.
11.Bojjannakonda
Location:Bojjannakonda is situated about 25 kilometers from Vishakhapatnam, near the village of Sankaram, and is accessible by road from the city.
Attraction:The main attractions include the rock-cut caves, ancient stupas, and beautifully carved sculptures that reflect the artistic excellence of early Buddhist architecture.
Timing:Bojjannakonda is open to visitors daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, providing ample time for exploration and sightseeing.
Entry Fee:There is no entry fee for visiting Bojjannakonda, making it an accessible site for everyone interested in history and culture.
12.Matsyadarshini Museum
Location: Situated on Beach Road in Visakhapatnam, overlooking the scenic Bay of Bengal.
Attraction: Known for its variety of aquatic species and informative displays that offer insights into marine life and its habitats.
Timing: Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: entry fee is around INR 30 for adults and INR 20 for children
13.Victory At Sea War Memorial
Location: Situated on Beach Road in Visakhapatnam, opposite the submarine museum, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.
Attraction: Known for its imposing memorial structure, historical significance, and proximity to other attractions like the Matsyadarshini Aquarium and INS Kursura Submarine Museum.
Timing: Open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to explore at any time. The memorial is best visited during the early mornings or evenings for a peaceful experience.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee, making it an accessible destination for all.
14.Gangavaram Beach
Location: Situated near Gangavaram Port, around 26 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city center, easily accessible by road.
Attraction: Known for its sandy shores, palm trees, and scenic landscape, making it a popular choice for nature lovers and photographers. The secluded beach provides a quiet retreat with the occasional sight of fishing boats.
Timing: Open all day, but best visited during early mornings or evenings for pleasant weather and beautiful views.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee, making it a free and accessible destination for all visitors.
15.Lawson’S Bay Beach
Location: Situated between RK Beach and Rushikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam, easily accessible by road.
Attraction: Known for its calm waters, scenic beauty, and opportunities for water sports such as surfing and swimming. The beach is an ideal getaway for those looking to escape the crowds.
Timing: Open all day, but early mornings and evenings are the best times to visit for cooler temperatures
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee, making it an easily accessible and budget-friendly destination for everyone.
16.Sagar Nagar Beach
Sagar Nagar Beach is a peaceful and less crowded beach located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Known for its stunning sunrise views and clean shores, this beach offers a tranquil environment for visitors. The beach is popular among locals for evening strolls and picnics, providing a relaxing spot away from the bustling city. Its scenic coastline and calm waters make it an ideal place to unwind, enjoy the cool breeze, and connect with nature.
Location: Situated in the Sagar Nagar locality, about 8 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city center, accessible via road.
Attraction: Famous for its beautiful sunrise views, clean sand, and serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for walks and family outings.
Timing: Open throughout the day, with the best times being early morning or late evening for the most pleasant experience.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee, making it an easy and budget-friendly destination for locals and tourists alike.
17.Visakha Museum
Location: Located on Beach Road, close to other key attractions such as the submarine museum and the Victory at Sea War Memorial.
Attraction: Known for its diverse collection of artifacts ranging from archaeological finds to maritime exhibits, highlighting the city’s naval heritage and historical significance.
Timing: Open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM,
Entry Fee: entry fee of INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children, making it an affordable and informative stop for visitors.
18. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Situated approximately 20 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city center on the Visakhapatnam-Srikakulam highway, making it easily accessible by road.
Attraction: Famous for its varied wildlife, scenic trekking trails, and birdwatching opportunities, attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Timing: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: entry fees are around INR 10 per adult and INR 5 per child, with additional charges for activities like trekking or boating.
19.Tu 142 Aircraft Museum
Location: Situated on Beach Road, Visakhapatnam, close to other attractions like the Submarine Museum and Victory at Sea Memorial, making it easily accessible.
Attraction: Known for offering a rare opportunity to explore the interiors of a real naval aircraft, along with exhibits on the plane’s technology, history, and naval aviation achievements.
Timing: Open from 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM on weekends
Entry Fee: entry fees are around INR 70 for adults and INR 40 for children, making it an affordable experience.
20. Mudasarlova
Location: Situated around 10 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city center, Mudasarlova is easily accessible by road.
Attraction: Known for its scenic lake, manicured gardens, and boating facilities, offering a peaceful retreat and outdoor activities like picnics and walks.
Timing:Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: entry fees are minimal, around INR 20 for adults and INR 10 for children, making it an affordable destination for visitors.
21.Thotlakonda
Location: Situated about 15 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city center on the Visakhapatnam-Bheemili road, accessible by road.
Attraction: Known for its archaeological significance, well-preserved ruins of ancient stupas, and scenic ocean views, attracting history enthusiasts and tourists.
Timing:Open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: entry to the site is free of charge, making it an educational and cost-effective outing for visitors.
22.Bheemili Beach
Location: Situated around 24 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city center, along the scenic Visakhapatnam-Bheemili coastal road.
Attraction: Known for its historic landmarks, pristine sands, and calm waters, providing visitors with both a relaxing beach experience and glimpses of the past.
Timing: Open throughout the day, with the best times being early morning or late evening to enjoy the cool sea breeze and beautiful views
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee, making it a popular destination for a budget-friendly outing.
Conclusion
Vizag, with its beautiful beaches, historical sites, serene hill stations, and cultural landmarks, offers a wide variety of experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you’re exploring the pristine beaches like RK and Yarada, diving into history at the Submarine Museum and Simhachalam Temple, or simply relaxing in the natural beauty of Kailasagiri and Araku Valley, Vizag provides an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure. A trip to this coastal city is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for India’s diverse landscapes and heritage.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Vizag?
The best time to visit Vizag is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and beach activities.
2. How many days are required to explore Vizag?
A 3-4 day trip is ideal to cover the major attractions in Vizag. Additional days allow you to explore nearby spots like Araku Valley and Borra Caves.
3. Are there water sports available in Vizag?
Yes, several beaches in Vizag, like RK Beach and Bheemili Beach, offer water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and speed boating.
4. Is Vizag suitable for family vacations?
Absolutely! With attractions like Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Kailasagiri Hill Park, and the Submarine Museum, Vizag is family-friendly and offers something for all ages.
5. What are some must-try local foods in Vizag?
Must-try local foods in Vizag include Bongulo Chicken (bamboo-cooked chicken), Andhra-style spicy biryani, and local sweets like Pootharekulu.
6. Are there any spiritual sites to visit in Vizag?
Yes, Vizag has several spiritual sites, including Simhachalam Temple, Ross Hill Church, and Buddhist sites like Thotlakonda and Bavikonda.
7. Can I visit Vizag as a solo traveler?
Yes, Vizag is generally safe for solo travelers and has a range of budget-friendly accommodations, making it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for solo trips.