Going by the size, the port city Visakhapatnam ranks second amongst the cities in Andhra Pradesh. It owns the credit of having the oldest shipyard in India and it houses natural harbor that is one of its kind on the Indian east coast. With its location contributing to the picturesque landscapes of the city, its rich cultural past adds immense value to its name. If you look for a destination that would keep your spirits soaring with natural beauties and manmade wonders, Visakhapatnam, popularly known as Vizag is the right place. Here are the 8 places to visit in Visakhapatnam that you need to include on your visit to the city.
1. Borra Caves
A stunning location 92 km away from the port city, Borra Caves is breathtaking situated 1400 metre above the sea level. The million year old caves were discovered by William King George from the Geological Survey of India in 1807. Borra Caves are the biggest amongst the caves found in India. The spectacular formation of rocks offers great views. If you like some physical activity on your tour, you will love the trek toward Borra Caves. An 80 ft. tunnel found here necessitates your going on all fours to reach the destination. Once you are inside the caves, you will feel as though you were transported to a different world. The rocks and the waterfalls make you experience the ancient element in the region. A Shivalingam and an idol of Kamadhenu are found inside the caves.
2. Araku Valley
Still further away from Vizag is Araku Valley, which is a favorite tourist destination. Your tour to Vizag will not be complete if you do not go some extra kilometers to visit Araku Valley and Borra Caves. Araku Valley is a hill station, which is bestowed with some of the best boons of Mother Nature. Located 3200 square feet above the sea level, Araku valley is picturesque with lush green gardens, streams and waterfalls. The strength of the place and the 19 tribes that live here is that they are not influenced by the modern world. The tribes keep their culture alive and the valley is a beauty that man has not attempted to conquer. The tribes respect nature and the nature has been kind to give them the best. The valley is serene and you will find that it offers you a challenging trekking. Overall, Araku valley elevates your senses and spirits.
3. Yarada Beach
The location of Yarada Beach is picturesque. Surrounded by magnificent hills on its three sides and Bay of Bengal on the fourth, Yarada Beach is undoubtedly the best beach in Vizag. The beach is clean and the golden sands add to its beauty. Sunrise and sunset views are mind blowing. The beach apart, your journey to Yarada beach in itself is scenic.
4. Rishikonda Beach
Rishikonda Beach is frequented by tourists as it is one of the best beaches in Andhra Pradesh. The beautiful beach is situated 8 km from Vizag. If you love water sports, you will love this beach. Swimming, wind surfing and skiing are some of the water sports available here. The beach stimulates the element of adventure in you while at the same time remains a perfect spot if you want a quiet evening.
5. Katiki Waterfalls
Katiki Waterfalls is located 4 km away from the ancient Borra Caves. Gosthani River is the source for this waterfall, which falls from a height of 50 ft. The picturesque waterfalls with lush green surroundings in Araku Valley offers excellent scope for trekking. The waterfall goes dry in summer.
6. Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park occupies a sprawling 625 acres of land. The location of the zoo is mesmerizing as you find hills on both the sides of the zoo and Bay of Bengal to its east. Located in such a natural setting, the zoo appears very much a home to wildlife. It was established in the year 1977. The zoo houses a wide range of animals including tigers, lions, panthers, Himalayan black bear, sloth bear, hippopotamus, jaguars, monkeys, pythons, elephants and many more.
7. Kailasagiri Hill Park
Kailasagiri is a famous hill station, which is surrounded by beaches and small hills. Kailasagiri Hill Park is located at the top and 360 feet from sea level. Road trains for children, ropeway trolleys and play park are some of the leading attractions here. The place is photographers’ delight as the views from hilltop are mind blowing. Seven viewpoints on the park offer glorious views of the beaches and the hills. The atmosphere is so serene that you will completely feel at peace.
8. VUDA Park
The lush greenery in VUDA Park is sure to elevate your spirits. The 2500 odd trees in 37 acres of land is sure to present you with rich greenery. The park measures 55 acres of land out of which, various species of plants are grown in 37 acres of land. The park does not only promote environment but it also offers various physical activities for children and elders alike. You will find children’s play area, yoga center, multi gym and a lot more.
Visakhapatnam is an ancient city that has maintained its cultural essence to this date. There are much more tourist places in Visakhapatnam. It is a beautiful city rich with natural wonders to rejuvenate your body and
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