Visakhapatnam is a port city in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Being the second largest city in the state, it even serves as the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. As per local tales, the city has been named after 'Vishakha' - the God of Valor. Also known as Vizag, it is distinctly called 'the city of destiny' as it houses advanced steel plants of India and various other heavy industries. However, what makes Vishakhapatnam a popular destination in terms of travel and tourism are the sandy & serene beaches, ancient temples, historical sites, and the sprawling natural beauty.

Tourist Attractions

The places of interest in the port city primarily include Ramakrishna Beach. It is the most popular beach in the city. It is an extension of Coromandel Coast and is quite favorable for sun bathing, surfing, long walks, fishing, boating etc. It even provides cruise facilities for Andaman-Nicobar Islands. The famous Visakha Utsav is also held here. Furthermore, the Rishikonda Beach situated at a distance of 8 km from Vizag, is a tranquil and pristine site. Ideal for leisure activities and water sports, the beach is a perfect resort to relax and unwind in the arms of Nature.

Another fascinating attraction in Vishakhapatnam is Dolphin's Nose. It is a unique landmark of the city. Around 357 meters high, it is a rock in the shape of Dolphin's nose. One of the oldest light houses is situated here, which throws a beam to a distance of 64 km in the sea. For animal lovers, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is a must visit place. Located amidst Kambalakonda Reserve Forest, it is surrounded by Eastern Ghats on three sides and Bay of Bengal on the remaining side. It houses around eighty species and eight hundred animals in the 625 acre complex.

Another interesting place in Vizag is Kailasagiri. Situated atop a hill, it is a picturesque park, which provides breathtaking view of Ramakrishna and Rishikonda Beach. It offers attractions like Shiva Parvati Statue, Shanku Chakra Naama, Food Courts, 7 Wonders of Vizag, Shiva Temple, Shanti Ashram, Art Gallery, Road Train, Gliding Base Point, Children Play Park, Telescopic Point, etc.

For an extraordinary experience, don't forget to visit the Submarine Museum. It is the only museum in India and Asia which prepares submarines. It is actually nestled in an Indian Navy submarine and provides a real life experience to the visitors. An 8 km drive from the city will bring you to Bavikonda, a Buddhist site, dating back to 2nd-3rd century. The excavations done here revealed various stupas, monasteries, platforms, relic caskets, iron objects, molded bricks, coins, etc. Some other places worth visiting in the city are Jagadamba Center, War Memorial, Matsyadarshini, Mudasarlova Water Works and Park and the Harbour & Three Hills.

How to Reach
By Air: Visakhapatnam has its own airport at a distance of 16km, which is well connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad.

By Rail: Vizag lies on Kolkata - Chennai main line and is therefore easy to reach. All the major cities are linked to the city via railways.

By Road: Vishakhapatnam lies on National Highway 5, connecting it directly to Howrah and Chennai. Moreover, regular bus service from here connects it to the rest of the country.