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Metropolis in Andhra Pradesh, India
Photo: en:user:Man praveen, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Vijayawada (Telugu: విజయవాడ Vijayavāḍa) or Bezawada (బెజవాడ Bejavāḍa), the second-largest city in Andhra Pradesh, is the state's major commercial hub, on the upper banks of the Krishna River, opposite the state capital Amaravati. Famous for the Kanaka Durga Temple that attracts millions every year, Vijayawada is a part of the "Capital Region" (CR) of Andhra Pradesh, with almost all the amenities a traveller might need.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
Sri Durga Malleswara Swamyvarla Devasthanam
This temple is on a hill (Indrakeeladri) overlooking the city and the River Krishna. One can either motor up the ghat road or take the steps on foot. Inscriptions of different dynasties are found in the temple. During the Dasara Festival, thousands of devotees come from the city and its environs throng to the temple after a holy dip in the River Krishna.
The first Gandhi Memorial with seven stupas in the country was constructed on this hill at a height of 500 ft (150 m). The 52 ft (16 m) stupa was unveiled on 6 October 1968 by Dr. Zakir Hussain, the President of India. Gandhi Memorial Library, a Sound and Light Show on Mahatma Gandhi's life and a planetarium are the other attractions. A toy train journey will be a memorable experience at that height on the hill.
Bhavani Island is on Krishna River close to the city. AP Tourism is converting this 133-acre (54-hectare) island into a tourist spot and a river-front resort. The island offers some cottages to stay in and some adventure and fun sports. The journey to the island by boat is very pleasant.
Built across the river Krishna connecting this city with Amaravati, Prakasam Barrage has created a panoramic lake. Its three canals that run through the city give Vijayawada a Venetian look.
Created by the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation with great care, this park is at the entrance of the city and features an impressive horticultural network. It also has a mini zoo and a musical water fountain.
A group of 7th-century rock-cut caves dedicated to Shiva.
Said to have been excavated in the 5th century, these caves are reputed to be the first of their kind in South India. The idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka and Ardhanareeswara are carved here.
Victoria Jubilee Museum
A place for archaeology lovers, Victoria Museum has a carefully preserved collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, idols, weapons, cutlery, and inscriptions.
River Valley Museum
This is in front of Prakasam Barrage. It was constructed by Vijayawada Industrialists & Fertilizers Association. It consists of 4 rooms depicting the story of Krishna River and also statue of Krishnaveni. Krishna River on the bank consists of Bridge Museum, just beside the bus stand. Some more places to visit nearby are Swathantra Samarayodhula Samsthanam which too is beside Pushkar Ghat.
In 1925, Rf. Arlati, the Rector of St. Joseph's Orphanage at Gunadala, installed a statue of Our Lady. Later, a church was built and consecrated in 1971 and is known as St. Mary's church. Since then, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes has become an annual event, attended by hundreds of people. The church is situated on a hillock on the eastern side of the city.
A holy relic of the Prophet Mohammed is kept here and displayed once a year. A large number of non-Muslims join the celebrations, too.
Jain Temple
Hinkar Thirtha is a Jain temple. It is stated to be the biggest Jain temple in the region.
This temple is in the area of Chiitinagar. During the Dasara Festival, thousands of devotees arrive from the city. It is maintained by the Nagaralu Community.
This temple is on a hill (Indrakeeladri) overlooking the city as well as the River Krishna. One can take to the steps on foot. During Skanda Shashti Festival, thousands of devotees come from the city. Some even come from as far away as Tamil Nadu. This Temple is maintained by the Iddipilli Family.
The Chocolate Room places an emphasis on a hip, modern atmosphere. Service can be slow, but this place is geared more towards those who are seeking a place to "chill" and be seen, not those who are on a lunch business meeting.
This location serves authentic Andhra food in the Kaleswara Rao Market. There can be long lines but the food is often worth it. The thalis are priced around ₹30. Only vegetarian food is served.
The Minerva Coffee Shop offers purely vegetarian food.
There are three locations in Vijayawada: one on Prakasam Road (this one also goes by Sarada foods), not far from Karl Marx Road; one on Museum Road; and the other on Pinnamaneni Polyclinic Road, close to 6th Lane. Serves coffee, cake, and pizza.
A multi-cuisine restaurant both affordable and very hygienic. A 4-course meal for 2 cost less than $10 or ₹400.
A candy and cake maker with attached restaurant. This is a decent place to purchase traditional Indian sweets. The staff can sometimes be a bit dismissive. The restaurant part is well decorated and clean. The food is nothing special but the quality is consistent.
This is more like a fine-dining restaurant. It is a multi-cuisine restaurant that specializes in fusion cuisines. The ambience is upscale and clean. Try their makhani pizza, bhatti ka murgh and nalli biryani.
No bathrooms for customers.
A Taj-group hotel.
The busiest business area in Vijayawada. Near this road is a dense concentration of cinemas, shops and restaurants.
This mall is one of the larger malls and houses many international brands. It is more akin to western style malls. There is a food court and cinema.
Bandar Road
This stretch of road that lays between Eluru Road and Frontage Road has a large cluster of shops both sides. There are several cinemas and large malls in this area.
By auto-rickshaw
These metal and motorised vehicles can take you around the city. Ensure you bargain the fare with the driver before making the trip.
By taxi
There are very few car-taxis in Vijayawada. You can, though, call up a cab hire (Jahnavi Car Travels, 0866-2474394) and have the taxi pick you up.
By car
There are many car rental companies available.
By bus
Most parts of the city and suburbs are knitted together by the bus network run by the APSRTC.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Vijayawada · International · VGA
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