An easy, practical and in-sequence itinerary planner I have travelled the length and breadth of India, and am truly proud of its rich and varied heritage. I am amazed by the tradition and values, the people, festivals, celebrations and the changing landscape. Have you wondered if it's possible to travel across India completely? Most foreigners arriving in India, land in Delhi and then travel the Golden Triangle route first- which is a good decision incase you have limited time at hand and want to make the most of it. The Golden Triangle- Delhi, Agra and Jaipur includes the much hyped Taj Mahal which invariably is part of a tourist's bucket list. This blog on the other hand- is a sequential strategy and detailed 'been there done that' itinerary plan starting from Mumbai. I am sure as we go through this Journey you will understand India better. My experiences are based from the perspective of a - digital nomad, budget backpacker and from a local standpoint. Each Itinerar
Top 3 Things to do in Visakhapatnam
on
Get link
Facebook
X
Pinterest
Email
Other Apps
The port town of Visakhapatnam or Vizag is nestled between the Eastern ghats on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. Just like MAHABALIPURAM (on the coast of TamilNadu), Vizag too was ruled by many dynasties earlier, and was an ancient port town having trade relations with far-off countries.
Post-independence Vizag has been of strategic importance as the HQ of the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval command. In 2020 it was ranked as the 9th cleanest city in India. Despite all this, it is still underrated as a tourist destination. The good part however is; it's cleaner, less crowded and a great place to chill.
I was fortunate to be hosted by a close friend who was kind and gracious enough to show me the sights and sounds of the city.
HERE ARE MY TOP 3 PICKS TO MAKE THE BEST OF YOUR STAY IN VIZAG
Here's are 5 best things to do within the city of Vizag
1- Take a stroll down the promenade along Ramakrishna beach road
Ramakrishna beach has a 2km long promenade road that is popular with joggers and morning walkers. The early morning hours are closed for vehicular traffic and thus a great way to feel the incredible positive vibe as you pass by people of all ages having a good time.
This promenade reminded me of Pondicherry~ there are excellent seating arrangements along the stretch where one can take a break and greet the rising sun. And while you're here check out~
INS Kursura submarine museum
This 1969 Soviet built submarine has been in action for 31 years, before getting decommissioned in 2001. Since then it is open for public viewing. It's indeed a rare opportunity to check out the submarine which stands beside the beach.
Victory at Sea memorial
Victory at Sea memorial, Ramakrishna beach road Visakhapatnam
Right opposite the Kursura submarine museum is the 1971 Victory and Sea memorial that commemorates the 1971 India-Pakistan war victory.
Visakha Maritime museum
A little further down the road is the Maritime museum, which again is impressive. It was once an old Dutch bungalow and now houses a wealth of knowledge on India's Maritime history.
As a bonus I had another long beach walk at sunset to feel the positive vibes and sample some street food.
Kailasgiri hills
Kailasgiri hill's cable car ride, vast gardens and amazing views of Rushikonda beach down below make it a popular hangout with families and kids.
View of the coast from atop Kailasgiri hills, Visakhapatnam
When you're here, also walk down the road to Tenneti park, and check out the abandoned ship on the beach below.
Bangladesh cargo ship MV Maa, drifted from Vizag port trust and finally ran aground near Tenneti park beach area
Abandoned ship at Tenneti park, Vizag
Due to strong currents this Bangladesh cargo ship MV Maa, drifted from Vizag port trust and finally ran aground near Tenneti park beach area
State tourism dept plans on turning it into a floating hotel or conference venue. However, the plan is not finalized owing to some challenges with regards to coastal regulations etc...
Simhachalam temple
For the religious minded, there's the Varaha Lakshmi Narayan temple at nearby Simhachalam.
2- Head towards Ananthagiri hills in the Eastern ghats
Ananthagiri hills, Eastern ghats closer to Araku, Andhra Pradesh
Unlike the Western ghats of India, the Eastern ghats on the other hand are relatively less explored. The most popular places to experience nature and the cooler climes near Visakhapatnam are Araku hills.
However, there are several interesting trails within the ghat area leading to Araku. One such place is a remote resort called WILD HILL TOP RESORT right in the midst of the Ananthagiri hills of Andhra Pradesh
About WILD HILL TOP RESORT
Address ~
Bharani estates,Plot No 501 YSR PURAM,N R PURAM,NEAR KASIPATNAM,ANANTAGIRI, Y.S.R.Puram, Andhra Pradesh 535145
pH_ 078937 12345
2,800/ rs per night
The resort rooms are quite basic for such a steep price. Power shuts down off and on and the rooms are average. But given the fact that it's the only stay option in such an unexplored and serene location, one might as well just go with it.
The location is in the midst of nature, and the climate is refreshing, thus making it a great way to recharge with family and friends. The best part is; this is a Pet-friendly property with a warm water swimming pool. Moreover, the staff is cooperative and goes that extra mile.
Tip~ There's no network coverage within Ananthagiri hills. So no pestering phone calls to spoil your weekend.
Tip~ The place is isolated, and no provisions, medical shops etc are available, so do stock up on food, beverages, alcohol, medicines etc as required.
Tip~ The hills are cool, so carry at least a light sweater.
Campfire nights in the hills
The best way to while away the night hours is; chatting away or having silly games around a warm campfire. And for this, they have a well planned campfire area with a surrounding seating for even a large group.
The best part is the food. With some assistance from us, the kitchen staff made a wonderful buffet meal of dal tadka, yummy sabzi, phulkas, two types of rice, chicken and paneer tikka.
Short hikes in the hills
There's a great deal to explore, but I'm sure that would require an experienced local guide. We took short walks nearby admiring nature at her best, and watching the clouds pour down the hills.
How to reach WILD HILL TOP RESORT from Visakhapatnam
It's challenging if you don't have your own vehicle.
The nearest railway station is Kasipatnam junction. Thereafter, public transport is available for about 7km. For the next 3kms the resort will arrange a free pickup. However, since we reached here by our own vehicles, I can't comment much.
3- Drive down the coast from Vizag to Bheemili
Bheemili, short for Bheemunipatnam is a coastal area about 47kms north of Visakhapatnam.
There are 2 reasons why I recommend driving down this part of the coast~ firstly It can be done within a day from Vizag. Furthermore, of the two roads leading to Bheemili, the coastal stretch has practically no traffic. Tourism is almost negligible along coastal Andhra, making the drive down the azure blue ocean an awesome experience.
Tip~ We drove in our own vehicle from Vizag to Bheemli. If you opt for public transport, there are govt buses, but I cannot comment on the frequency.
Bheemli's Dutch history
Bheemli was ruled by the Nawab of Golconda, who following a battle with the Dutch, lost this town in 1624. It eventually became a major trading port and Dutch settlement during the 17th century.
Even today, one can easily see signs of Dutch history like~ The churches, lighthouse and a Dutch cemetery. One could also likely find beautiful Dutch houses from the bygone era, like we saw in Tranquebar (Thrangambadi)- a town along coastal Tamilnadu, but we didn't stop any longer.
If you enjoyed reading this blog, do Subscribe and drop in a comment with your thoughts. Also please share if it may useful to someone.
Comments
Post a Comment