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Vijaywada Travel Guide

Historically considered as the cultural, political, pilgrimage and educational center of the state, Vijayawada is located on the banks of the holy river Krishna. It is believed that Arjuna, of the epic Mahabharatha prayed at the Indrakeeladri Hill and won the blessings of Lord Shiva.

People from this land of legends gathering thousands for a dip in river Krishna on important festivals particularly on Mahasivarathri. Krishna Pushkaram occurs once in 12 years is an all India festival and lakhs of people pay their homage to the sacred Krishnaveni. Arjuna obtained the famous "Pasupathastra" after doing penance of "Indrakeela" hill.

The Prakasam Barrage constructed in 1957 with an impressive 1223 meters long across the river Krishna is a panoramic beauty of Vijayawada.

Kanakadurga Temple:
Built a top Indra Keeladri a sacred Kankadurga Temple is synonymous with Vijayawada. Kanakadurga, the Goddess of power, riches and benevolence is considered to be the presiding deity of Vijayawada. During Dassara, one of the important festivals of this country special celebrations are held.

The rock cut caves dedicated to Akkanna, Madhanna on the way to the Kanakadurga Temple remainds the Qutub Shahi rules of 17th Century.

Victoria Museum:
Located in Victory city of Vijayawada, having collection of ancient sculpture, paintings, idols, inscriptions, the Victoria Museum is one of the center of attraction.

Gandhi Hill:
A visit to the tallest structure of 15.8 meters the Gandhi Stupa a top Gandhi Hill earlier known as "Orr" Hill is one of the panoramic beauty of Vijayawada.

Erected in 1968 has a tribute to father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi this hill has a Planetarium, library and birds eye view point of the city with the sound and light show on Mahatma Gandhi's life.

Bahavani Island:
Located in the upstream of river Krishna close to Prakasam Barrage this Island has a panoramic beauty and center of attraction for many tourists. The Tephostsavam during Dassara Festival adds glory to this Island.

Gunadala Matha Shrine:
In 1925 Rf. Arlati PIME, the then Rector of St.Joseph's Orphanage at Gunadala cut small pathway half way up the hill and placed a small statue of Our Lady in "niche". Soon a pathway to the grotto was slowly cut out of the hill. It was since then the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes became an annual feast. A beautiful church was built and blessed in 1971 that was extended in the recent years.

Kandapalli Fort:
A 7th century Fort with an impressive 3 storied rock towers on a Hill, the Kondapalli Fort is located 16km away from Vijayawada. The Kondapalli Fort which has witnessed the glory of many dynasties, used as a military training base by the British rules. It is a picturesque and panoramic picnic spot.

Kondapally Toys:
No one can resist the charm of beautiful hand made toys of Kondapally. The world famous toys made of a light wood called poniki have the characteristic Indian mythological figures, birds, fruits, vegetables and houses.