Vijayawada, also known as Bezawada, is a city located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is situated on the banks of the Krishna River and is the third-largest city in the state. Vijayawada is known for its rich history, culture, art, architecture, festivals, and cuisine.
History:
Vijayawada has a rich and diverse history dating back to the 6th century BCE when it was a part of the Kalinga kingdom. It has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Pallavas, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, and Vijayanagara Empire. In the 17th century, it came under the rule of the Nizams of Hyderabad, and later it became a part of British India. During the Indian independence movement, Vijayawada played an important role in the non-cooperation movement.
Culture:
Vijayawada is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. The culture of the city is influenced by Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The people of Vijayawada are known for their hospitality, and the city is home to several festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
Art and Architecture:
The city has a rich tradition of art and architecture. The Undavalli Caves, located on the outskirts of the city, are a prime example of rock-cut architecture. The Kanaka Durga Temple, located on a hilltop overlooking the city, is a fine example of South Indian temple architecture. The Prakasam Barrage, built across the Krishna River, is an engineering marvel.
Festivals:
Vijayawada is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. The most important festival celebrated in the city is Dussehra, which is celebrated for ten days with great fervor and enthusiasm. Other important festivals celebrated in the city include Diwali, Ugadi, and Sankranti.
Main Places to Visit:
Vijayawada has several tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the must-visit places in the city include:
- Kanaka Durga Temple
- Prakasam Barrage
- Undavalli Caves
- Kondapalli Fort
- Bhavani Island
- Gandhi Hill
Must-Do Activities:
Vijayawada offers several activities for tourists to indulge in. Some of the must-do activities in the city include:
- Taking a boat ride on the Krishna River
- Climbing the stairs to reach the Kanaka Durga Temple
- Watching the sunset at the Prakasam Barrage
- Shopping for Kondapalli toys and sarees
Weather:
The climate of Vijayawada is tropical, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the city is between October and March when the weather is pleasant.
How to Reach:
Vijayawada is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Vijayawada International Airport is located about 18 km from the city center and is well-connected to major cities in India. The city also has a major railway station, which is connected to several cities in the country.
Accommodation:
Vijayawada has several options for accommodation, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Some of the popular hotels in the city include the Gateway Hotel, Fortune Murali Park, and Novotel Vijayawada.
Food:
Vijayawada is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. Some of the popular dishes in the city include Hyderabadi Biryani, Gongura Pachadi, and Pesarattu. Some of the popular restaurants in the city include the Southern Spice, Kamat Restaurant, and New Anand Bhavan.
Shopping:
Vijayawada is famous for its Kondapalli toys, which are made of light-weight wood and are painted in bright colors. The city is also known for its sarees, especially the Mangalagiri and Venkatagiri sarees. Some of the popular shopping destinations in the city include the MG Road, PVP Square, and Trendset Mall.
Nearby Places:
There are several places near Vijayawada that are worth visiting. Some of the popular nearby places include:
- Amaravati: Located about 35 km from Vijayawada, Amaravati is a famous Buddhist site and has several ancient monuments and stupas.
- Kuchipudi: Located about 25 km from Vijayawada, Kuchipudi is famous for its classical dance form and has several schools that teach the dance form.
- Hamsaladeevi Beach: Located about 85 km from Vijayawada, Hamsaladeevi Beach is a beautiful beach that is less crowded and is ideal for a peaceful weekend getaway.
Costs of Visiting:
Vijayawada is an affordable destination to visit. The cost of accommodation ranges from INR 1000 to INR 5000 per night, depending on the type of hotel. The cost of food in the city is also affordable, with meals ranging from INR 100 to INR 500 per person. The cost of transportation in the city is also reasonable, with auto-rickshaws and taxis readily available.
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