Travel to Vijayawada

Overview
Vijayawada: The land of interlacing canals

Embraced with the vestiges of stone age, scattered all along the banks of the holy River Krishna, Vijayawada endows beauty of heavenly paradise. Previously known as Bezwada, it is today the third largest city of Andhra Pradesh reminding you of Venice with its intricate interlacing canals. Apart from its scenic beauty the place also holds  religious importance because of the beautifully fashioned temples in the town.

Vijayawada's history reveals the power of the prolonged dominion of the Chalukyas of Kalyan and the great king Krishna Deva Raya. The famous  sage Agasthya is said to have been the greatest devotee of Lord Shiva, who is idolised here in one of the temples of Vijayawada.The origin of Kanaka Durga Devi at Vijayawada is unknown. She is said to be Swayambu, meaning self manifested. Vijayawada was even visited by foreign travellers like Huien Tsang.
Enveloped by Idrakiladri Hills on the west and soaked by Budameru River, the place is a descent getaway for the travellers.

Following are the main attractions of Vijayawada:

Kanak Durga Temple: It is the most popular temple of the city. Perched on Indrakiladri Hill, the temple provides a picturesque view of Vijayawada. The presiding deity of the temple is Kanaka Durga, who is considered as the Goddess of power, wealth and benevolence. There are several inscriptions inside the temple, depicting different dynasties.

Bhavani Island: It 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 comfortable stay. A boat ride to this island is an exciting activity.

Prakasam Barrage: It serves a wonderful view with its colossal size across Krishna River. Built in 1957, the barrage incorporates both railway track and road. A Venetian look has been graced to the city by a huge lake and three canals along the barrage.

Undavalli Caves:  A fine  monolithic example of Buddhists rock-cut architecture in India, the cave holds a 5m long statue of Lord Buddha in reclining posture. Another striking feature of the cave is the statue of Lord Vishnu made out of a single granite rock.

 

Excursions from Vijayawada: Travellers can also hop to places like Kondapalli (16km), Kuchipudi (60km) and  Amravati (65km).

 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is between November and March. The  Makar Sankranti festival (February) is also a desirable time to visit Vijayawada.

Shopping in Vijayawada:

It is fun shopping in Vijayawada. Ranging from handloom products to handicrafts, furniture to textiles, pearl jewelry to silver jewelry, shoppers can set off with anything and everything in Vijayawada. Besides these, the city has wonderful antiques, leather goods, pearls as well as semi precious stones to offer. Kalamkari paintings and handiworks are things not to be missed on your visit to Vijaywada.

 

How to reach:

Air: Vijayawada Airport (12km) is the closest domestic airport to the city receiving flights from Delhi and Hyderabad. Hyderabad Airport is the international airport located 276km away from Vijayawada.

Rail: Vijayawada Railway Station is connected to all parts of the country including Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Karnataka and Kerala.

Road: It holds a big and planned bus stand with buses coonecting Vijaywada to all the nearby regions in state.