Visakhapatnam, popularly known as Vizag, is a beautiful port city in the heart of Andhra Pradesh. Nestled between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam is a treasure trove of natural wonders. This largest city in Andhra Pradesh, boasting a rich history and cultural heritage, is predominantly famous for its spectacular beaches. Nevertheless, the other attractions in Visakhapatnam like the ancient temples, monuments, valleys, hills, caves, wildlife sanctuaries, museums, etc., are equally enchanting. We have listed some of the best places to visit in Visakhapatnam that deserve to be a part of your Vizag itinerary!
Kailasagiri Park:
Kailasagiri, a hilltop park situated at an altitude of 360 feet above the sea level, overlooks the beaches and cityscape of Vishakhapatnam. While the peaceful ambiance of the park and the panoramic views it offers attract nature lovers and photographers, the huge idol of God Shiva and Goddess Parvathi draws the attention of religious tourists. The numerous recreational activities like toy train rides, ropeways, and other attractions like the floral clock, jungle trails, titanic viewpoint, etc. make this a favorite family picnic spot among locals. The cable car ride to the hilltop is the best experience you couldn’t afford to miss!
Rishikonda Beach:
Located at a distance of 8 kms from Vishakhapatnam, Rishikonda/ Rushikonda Beach is a golden sand beach surrounded by verdant hills. The scenic beauty of this immaculate beach contributes to describing Vizag as the ‘Jewel of the East Coast.’ Whether it is the calming beach experience that you are craving or a fun-filled day packed with water sports like swimming, skiing, windsurfing, etc., Rushikonda Beach is the perfect choice for you, and this is the reason why it is one of the best places to visit in Visakhapatnam. Plan your trip soon and book cheap flights with Indian Eagle!
Araku Valley:
Embraced by the mountain ranges of the Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is a picture-postcard hill station near Visakhapatnam. From the picturesque Vizag-Araku rail route to the trekking trails in the lush green hills, every experience in Araku leaves you wanting for more. Referred to as the ‘Ooty of Andhra,’ the untouched beauty of Araku and its laid-back aura makes this valley the best place to visit in Visakhapatnam for an idyllic retreat in the lap of nature. The top tourist attractions here are the Borra caves and coffee plantations in Ananthagiri Hills, Katiki Falls, Padmapuram Botanical Gardens, and Tribal Museum.
Submarine Museum:
Also known as the INS Kurusura Submarine Museum, this one-of-a-kind museum is developed inside a real submarine that has served the Indian Navy for almost 31 years! Set on the Rama Krishna beach, it is Asia’s only Submarine Museum and the second of its kind in the world. It is a must-visit attraction in Visakhapatnam for inquisitive minds — you’ll get to know about the technology used by the Indian Navy, the role of submarines during wars, hardships of submariners, etc. The artifacts, photographs, and articles in the museum depict the history and growth of submarines. Do not miss this great learning experience!
Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary:
Named after the nearby mountain called Kambalakonda (konda meaning mountain), this wildlife sanctuary is a dry evergreen forest area dotted with scrubs and meadows. Kambalakonda wildlife sanctuary, spread across 71 square kilometers, is home to rare plant, bird, and animal species, and is one of the best places to visit in Visakhapatnam. Follow the forest trails and spot the Indian Leopard, Indian Pangolin, Madras treeshrew, Indian Golden Oriole, Indian peafowl, Banded bay cuckoo, Sambar deer, spotted deer, barking deer, Indian Muntjac, panthers, Russel’s vipers, etc. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is a top attraction in Vizag, especially for birders and wildlife enthusiasts!