Andhra Pradesh, the symbol of true spirit of Indian secularism where people of all faiths -Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu form a symphony of religions. History has forged, and left behind vital links with the state, as is evident from the many edifices, monuments and architectural ruins, the legacy of dynasties as old as 300 B.C. Traces of the diverse and variegated facets of the culture of the Mauryas, Pallavas, Cholas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas and Vijayanagar, offer imposing vistas, that continue to fascinate the observer. Situated south of the Vindhyas, it shares a common history with its neighbours, Maharashtra , Orissa , Madhya Pradesh , Tamil Nadu and Karnataka . The medieval city of Hyderabad is its capital.
Andhra Pradesh is known for the famous Sri Venkateswara temple at Tirupati, Charminar, Salar Jung Museum, Golconda Fort in Hyderabad and Buddhist viharas at Nagarjunasagar. Also visit the wildlife and bird sanctuaries of Kolleru, Manjira, Kawal and Papikonda. Andhra has a nearly 1000 km-coastline with eight of its 23 districts having direct access to the sea. Famous beaches are Visakhapatnam Bheemunipatnam, Kakinada, Chirala, Kalingapatnam and Mypad.
Capital of Andhra Pradesh
Once a medieval city, Hyderabad is a modern metropolis. A revolution in etiquette is under way, recasting values. The yuppie ethos has invaded the city and western haute couture is slowly being preferred over the sherwani and burqa. This is the city that has even been the home of a Miss World. Fortunately, gourmets have not let the Deccani cuisine, the Hyderabadi biryani in particular, pass into legend.
History of Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh was, in fact, created by combining the old princely state of Hyderabad with the Telegu-speaking portions of the former state of Madras . The Chalukyas held sway till the 10th c. when the Cholas seized power. In the 14th c., Muslim power reached this southern state and for centuries ruled over this princely state. It was finally was taken over by a General of the Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb. The General's successors, called Nizams, ruled the state till Independence.
Culture of Andhra Pradesh
Beautiful crafts, vibrant religious festivals, a varied cuisine and the sonorant mother tongue, Telugu, are some of the indelible impressions of this state. Kuchipudi is the famous classical dance form of Andhra Pradesh. Tribal dances contribute in equal measure to the artistic heritage of Andhra Pradesh. Tholubommalaata, a shadow puppetry theatre is a fascinating folk art.
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Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh, along with its twin city Secunderabad has over 400 years of history. Hyderabad is a heady mixture of heritage, traditionally hospitality and a thriving software revolution. A revolution that has already attracted Microsoft to set its only overseas base here. The fifth largest city in India and has a population of over 2.2 million. Hyderabad is famous world over for its fabulous Diamond markets, glass embedded bangles and the delectable Hyderabadi cuisine. It has a Hindu - Muslim culture with a number of monuments of historical importance. Legend says that in 1589 Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutub Shahi dynasty founded a new city along the banks of river Musi for his ladylove, Bhagmati. The city was then called Bhagyanagar. Later when Bhagmati entered the royal family, she was honored with the title Hyder Mahal. And Bhagyanagar became Hyderabad. There are no forests in this district, and this district is the Smallest district in Andhra Pradesh and the densest one in the whole State.
India's First Cigarette Charminar was produced from Vazir Sultan Tobacco factory situated at Azamabad area, which has more than a Hundred years of manufacturing experience on this branded Cigarette. Apart from this Many Public Limited Companies like B.H.E.L, H.A.L, DRDO, MIDHANI, NFC, ECIL, CITD, HMT etc are placed in this District.The major water sources for the twin cities are Singur Project on River Manjeera in Medak district and Osman sagar on River Musi at Gandipet. Hyderabad with its rich cultural backdrop is famous for its Bangles and Ivory products. Osmania University the Oldest one in Andhra Pradesh established in 1919, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Potti Sri Ramulu Telugu University, Acharya N.G.Raga agricultural University, Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad University (Central University) are Chief pioneers in educational establishments in the district.
ATTRACTIONS
Charminar Charminar is always on the top of the mind of any tourist visiting Hyderabad. To say that Charminar is a major landmark in the city is to state the obvious, to repeat a cliché. The great monument is a synonym for Hyderabad and the pivot around which the glory and history of the city have developed. To imagine this 400-year-old city without Charminar is to imagine New York without the Statue of Liberty or Moscow without the Kremlin. Built by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in 1591, shortly after he had shifted his capital from Golkonda to what now is known as Hyderabad, this beautiful colossus in granite, lime, mortar and, some say, pulverised marble, was at one time the heart of the city. This great tribute to aesthetics looks sturdy and solid from a distance but as one moves closer, it emerges as an elegant and romantic edifice proclaiming its architectural eminence in all its detail and dignity. Apart from being the core of the city’s cultural milieu, it has become a brand name.
CharminarCharminar is a squarish structure with four towers in the four corners of the square, each of whose sides is 20 metres in length. Every side opens into a plaza through giant arches, which overlook four major thoroughfares and dwarf other features of the building except the minarets. Each arch is 11 metres wide and rises 20 metres to the pinnacle from the plinth. The minarets soar skywards by 24 metres from the roof of Charminar. Each minaret has four storeys, each looking like a delicately carved ring around the minaret. Some Anglophiles call Charminar the Arc de Triomphe of the East. From the ground to the apex, the minarets cover a length of 48.7 metres.
According to Mir Moazzam Husain, a long time official of the UNESCO and a keen student of this historic city, “these minarets may even symbolise the first four khalifs of Islam, but I cannot vouch for this interpretation with any degree of certainty.” At the western end of the roof of Charminar is a beautiful mosque; the oldest in Hyderabad, and the rest of the roof was used as a court in Qutub Shahi times. Atop the great monument are 45 prayer spaces for the devout where they can offer worship in an atmosphere unspoilt by the bustle of the city. East of this space is a spacious verandah with small and large arches in the middle. The first floor has beautiful balconies from where one has a fantastic view of the historic city and its later accretions. Alankrita-the Ethnic Gateway
Spread over an area of 10 acres, Aalankrita blends the convenience of a 5-star resort, the ambience of a heritage site and the ethnicity of the times gone by. Located about 19 Km from More Details... Botanical Gardens.
The first Botanical Gardens in Andhra Pradesh, spread over 120 acres, when completed will have 19 sections (Vanams). Already open to public is the first phase, with the completion of 5 sections.
Dhola-ri-Dhani
This is a typical setting recreated with the entire rustic ambience and charm of an ethnic Rajasthani village, situated at Kompally on Medchal Road. Camel rides, puppet shows, folk dances, authentic
Dream Valley Resorts
Nestled amidst lush green environs and located at Gandipet, Dream Valley Resorts is a water theme park with waterslide
Hitec City
One of the modern monuments of trade and technology, it embodies the newfound attitude of Hyderabad and today finds a place of pride.
Osman sagar Whether it is summer or winter, the one place that is crowded with streaming visitors is Osman Sagar, popularly known as Gandipet. It is a beautiful lake located 20 kms west of Hyderabad city. This water body was formed as a result of damming of the river Moosi in 1920 by Mir Osman Ali Khan. The idea was to supply water to the then Hyderabad. The lake is spread over an area of 46 square kilometers and is the main drinking water for the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
Gandipet is the most sought after picnic spot for Hyderabadis. It has been developed as a public recreation area with well laid out lush green gardens and swimming pool. Throughout the year- weekdays or weekends - Gandipet beckons holidayers from every nook and corner of the twin cities. Anyone visiting Gandipet is pleased to see a vast stretch of placid water that shimmer like gold with the rays of the morning sun. The breeze is cool and soothing. Sprawling lawns with colorful flora and youthful trees towards the lower side of the dam make the place picturesque. The lake offers boating facilities to the visitors who look forward to an ideal joyride.
Most picknickers who come with family and friends to Gandipet spend a whole day here revelling with food, playing games and having a lot of entertainment. Usually people carry delicious special varieties of food to Gandipet. Aprt from that they also buy snacks and drinks from the only cafeteria at the place. There are some visitors who stay overnight at Gandipet not being content with a whole day's adventure. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism provides a guest house called "Sagar Mahal" which was the summer resort of the erstwhile Nizam. It has about ten double rooms with food arrangement.
Most people also visit Gandipet after the rainy season when the reservoir is full. In this period swimming and boat riding are a common sight. Some students from nearby colleges come to Gandipet for a different purpose. For ragging! The students bring along their juniors and have a good interaction. They have fun and at the same time get to know each other better.
The A.P. Travel and Tourism Development Corporation has included Gandipet as part of the special sight seeing tour for tourists visiting the place.
Lumbini Park
This beautiful entertainment park is situated on the shore of Hussainsagar lake. The landscaping here is a visual treat. A musically synchronized water fountain
NTR Gardens
A leisure and entertainment centre adjoining the Hussainsagar lake, the NTR Gardens house a memorial (Samadhi) of Late N.T. Rama Rao, one of the most charismatic
Snow world
Ocean Park Multi Tech Limited is leading the region by developing new conceptual theme parks. Ocean Park Multi Tech Limited (OPML) has driven the excitement to the limits by creating first water theme park OCEAN PARK. Ocean Park has created waves and regaled the tourists across the globe.
Now, OPML, with SNOW WORLD, is recreating magic of nature right at the center of the country. Snow World is chilling and delighting the people from India and around the world with unlimited fun and amusement.
OPML has been the front runner in providing amusement and theme parks to promote tourism and entertainment in India. OPML has been working hand in hand with the government for the development of the state and the country as tourist center for the global community. OPML has received several accolades from the government agencies, industry and social organizations across the globe for their contribution for the growth of the tourism.
OPML is proud for their contribution to place HYDERABAD and so INDIA on the global touristic centers among the fun lovers from all the continets.OPML Chairman modestly states, “OPML strongly believes and strives to state ‘success of the OPML is the strength of India’”.OPML untiring Managing Director is in action to generate an endless saga of creating more and more exciting and new amusement centers to India and to Andhra Pradesh.
OPML is the forerunner in the field of Tourism Department. Its project Ocean Park which was launched in 1997 has become a household name and own of the best Tourist Distillates. As a recognition of Ocean Park’s contribution to Tourism, Ocean Park was awarded Tourism Excellency Award by the state of Andhra Pradesh. The Financial Institution APSFC
Ocean Park
Ocean Park is an excellent Water Theme Amusement Park modelled on International Standards.
Pragati Green Meadows & Resorts
Spread over 26 acres and an hour drive from Hyderabad, Pragati Resorts offers facilities like swimming, boating, children park, coffee and snack bar, restaurant, conference hall, uniquely designed cottages for overnight stay.
Public Gardens
Hyderabad has several beautiful gardens, one of the most popular being the Public Gardens, which also encloses the State Legislature.
Ramoji Film City
A dream world created for the celluloid on a sprawling 1000 acres, with every imaginable set and location, Ramoji.
Ramoji Film City is the ultimate multi-faceted holiday-maker’s destination- the perfect venue for lavish weddings, the honeymooners favourite and the ideal setting for high-level out-of-the-box corporate conferences, events, theme parties, adventure camps, college and school student tours.Ramoji Film City – the largest film studio complex in the world as certified by Guinness World Records, provides most comprehensive and advanced film production facilities with dedicated professionalism. A filmmaker can walk in with a script and walk out with a canned film.
The Ramoji Film City (RFC) located on Hyderabad-Vijayawada Highway is a nice outing.
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The tickets were bought and after a brisk security check up people are allowed to get into the waiting bus of RFC. The bus rode up the wide black asphalt road winding around a hill. After all the twists and turns, ditto like in our movies, the sprawling RFC came into picture.
The bus entered into the fantasy land; eye balls darted from left to right trying to drink up all the sights in one swing. Everybody was dropped off at 'Eureka' (the starting and ending point of this package tour) only to be transferred into a red bus, (quite like the one you would find on London roads). The red bus took the wide eyed tourists around the RFC,
Showing the various gardens ranging from Japanese to Tea gardens, temples sans idols, schools which turned into police stations at the drop of the board, colleges which double up as havelis and airports whose rear entrance is used for the hospital shot and side for church. All can have a through in a south Indian village, a north Indian village, sky scrapers, slums, Ajanta and Ellora caves and a bazaar.
Runway 9
Located 9 kilometer from Secunderabad, Runway 9 is claimed to be the first, largest and the only international Go-Karting centre
Shilparamam-The Crafts Village
Shilparamam is an arts and crafts village showcasing various art forms and handicrafts of various artists from all over the State. Shilparamam plays host to myrid traditions of arts and crafts of the country.
The Birla Planetarium & Science Museum
Birla Planetarium is India's most modern planetarium and first of its kind in the country. It is equipped with advanced technology from Japan and is built on Naubat Pahad adjacent
Jama masjid
The white towers of the Jama Masjid, the oldest mosque in Hyderabad, rise a few meters from the Charminar. It was built by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah in the year 1597 after the completion of the Charminar.
Within the premises of Jama masjid lie the ruins of an old Turkish bath. Formerly, a school and a monastery used to lie within the walls of the mosque, but they no longer exist presently. The Jama Masjid is still frequented by a large number of Muslims and remains one of the principal places of worship in the city. Treasure Island
A picturesque holiday spot, the Treasure Island, located on 60 acres of landscape at Gandipet, offers a variety of leisure and fun oriented activities - horse riding, billiards, dancing at the disco.
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Puttaparthi, once a sparsely populated village, has shot into national and international fame as the abode of Bhagwan Sri Satya Sai Baba. The original name of Sai Baba is "Satyanarayana Raju". He was born on November 23, 1926 in Puttaparthi.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the most colourful and multifaceted prophet, modern India has produced, is believed to be the very avatar (incarnation) of love and the voice of one's own innermost heart speaking to each individual externally. The teachings of the Baba are based on the famous 'five props' of Sathya (truth), Dharma (righteousness) Santhi (peace), Prema (universal love) and Ahimsa (non violence). Prasanthi Nilayam, over the years, has attracted people from all over then world. The Ashram has a code of conduct which every visitor should follow. The Ashram also has museums, stadiums, educational institutions, the Sai Space Theatre etc. The 23rd of November is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm by the devotees of Baba at the Prasanthi Nilayam. Over a million people gather here on the occasion of the Baba's birthday. The atmosphere around the Ashram is undeniably peaceful, and the growth of such a vibrant community in this once forgotten backward area is not a small miracle.
His disciples have constructed the 'Prashanti Nilayam' an ashram, which attracts large number of devotees throughout the year. Prasahanti Nilayam means 'the abode of peace". The ashram was inaugurated in 1950. The ashram is a huge complex with room for thousands, with canteens, shops, a museum and library, and a vast assembly hall where Sai Baba gives 'darshan' twice daily. A considerable number of devotees turn out for his birthday celebrations in Puttaparthi, where he delivers a message to his devotees.
Location
Located 400-km from Hyderabad by road, the village Chitravati, situated at a distance of about 18 miles from Penukonda, 2 miles from Penukond-Bukkapatnam road has now become a centre of great attraction, Puttaparthi. It is abode of Puttaparthi Sri Satya Sai Baba. An important tourist attraction of Ananthapur district, Puttaparthi is surrounded by the arid and rocky hills bordering Karnataka.
ATTRACTIONS
Birth Place of Bhagavan Sai
A Siva temple in the Puttaparthi village signifies the birth-place of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The temple was opened by Baba in 1979. The real birthplace, not known to most people, is located accross the river in a small dilipated house
Sathyabhama Temple
On the other side of the street there is a temple for Sathyabhama, a rare one exclusively established for Sathyabhama. Sathyabhama is commonly known as the consort of Lord Krishna, and the worse example of such. Perhaps this is the reason why the temple in Puttaparthi is the only temple in the world dedicated to Sathyabhama. Sri Kondama Raju, Bhagavan's grandfather, had a dream where he found Sathyabhama standing in heavy rain and wind, asking for shelter. This lead to the determination of constructing a temple for Sathyabhama.
Sri Raju Kalyana Mandapam
The Old mandir was constructed in the year 1945. Bhagavan selected a new location for His darshans and a new mandir, the current one, was constructed in 1950. Thereafter the old mandir has been used as Kalyana Mandapam (marriage hall) and is given for free use for marriages in the village.
The Village Mosque
The village mosque and the hall opposite was constructed and opened by Baba in 1978. At a certain borderline from Puttaparthi, accidents and diseases would set-in on travellers. Bhagavan asked local people in the area to dig at a certain spot, and a plate was discovered, containing various Muslim inscriptions. The plate was moved into the Mandir, and all inauspicious events stopped. A mosque was built in Puttaparthi and the plate was taken on yearly processions to the mosque from the mandiram.
Anjaneya (Hanuman) Swamy Temple
This temple is between Kalyana Mandapam and the Sathyabhama temple. At the entrance, Lord Siva as Lingam, brought by Bhagawan from Kasim, is installed. The temple appears as if Anjaneya engraved in a guha stands inside a cave. There is always a pool of water at the feet of Anjaneya (Hanuman) representing the tears he sheds in his love and longing for Lord Rama.
Kalpa Vriksha
This 'wishfulfilling' tree is an old tamarind tree from Bhagavan's childhood. The Kalpa Vriksha is famous from Bhagavan's life story in Professor Kasturi's Sathyam-Shivam-Sundaram series. In His boyhood, Bhagavan used to display His miraculous powers to His playmates by asking these to think of any fruit, in or out of season, and the same would appear hanging off the branches of the tamarind tree. Thus the name 'wishfulfilling tree' was given.
Today the tree is a great look-out point over the Chitravathi river. It is located on the side of a hill on the banks of the Chitravati.
Chitravati River
The river is located circa ½ kms from the ashram. It is considered by many as being the new Ganga, as Bhagavan bathed in the river, played on the banks of the river and displayed many miracles and manifestations on the banks of the Chitravathi. Currently and unfortunately the Chitravathi is the source of sand for all construction in Puttaparthi. A small secret: Bhagavan's robes are still being washed in the Chitravathi, with a guard overlooking them as they dry.
Samadhi
The Samadhi of Bhagavan's parents, Sri Pedda Venkappa Raju and Smt. Easwaramma, is located in the Samadhi Road, a few blocks from the Ganesh Gate. Every year during Eswaramma Day, May 6th, special Bhajans are conducted here and hundreds of poor people are fed. In earlier years, Bhagavan used to offer obeisance to His parents on His birthday every year and travel in procession to the Samadhi.
Sai Gita-The Elephant
Sai Gita is Bhagavan's temple elephant. It is considered auspicious in India in temples to have a real elephant residing in the temple as a symbol for Ganesh-the remover of obstacles. Elephants also represent intelligence and intellect, as they are highly intelligent animals.Sai Gita was born in 1965 and was given to Bhagavan as a gift from the Zoo in Madras, when she was merely a small baby. It is not known whether she was an orphaned wild elephant, or breed in the zoo. In any case, she was quite spoilt by Swami as a young one and he even had a small compound built for her next to the Mandir, which she used to stay in when she was not trailing after Bhagavan in and out of the Mandir.Elephants usually live until they are about 70 years old. To ease the pain of separation, Sai Gita has a photo with her and Bhagavan hanging on the wall in her private compound next to the Planetarium.
Sathya Sai Nagar
This is a colony of 58 houses where the Harijans (outcasts) of the village have been provided shelter by Bhagavan after being displaced as a result of an unexpected flooding of the Chitravati River in 1975.
The houses (or huts) are located by the Gokulam, where all the cows are who provide milk for the schools and the ashram.
Gokulam
The ashram dairy is about half a kilometer from the Ashram, along the Main Road in Vidya Giri. All milk for the schools, the hospital canteen, and the ashram comes from the Gokulam. It is known amongst villagers that the Gokulam cows has the best milk; fresh and undiluted. The locals are quite proud if they have access to the 'Gokulam milk'! To avoid the spreading of infections of the animals, you are requested not to go around or enter the cowsheds. By the Gokulam is a most beautiful image of Sri Krishna at the entrance. The artitistic 'fill-ins' with paint and brush on Sri Krishna's face has been done by Bhagavan Himself years ago.
Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium
Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium Located behind the Higher Secondary School, opposite the hill, towering with statues of Hanuman, Krishna, Shiva, Buddha, Zoroaster, and Christ, it gives an imposing view.
Bhagavan addresses the mammoth gathering, from the Shanthi Vedika (covered podium) on the Southern end of the stadium on His Birthday on 23rd November every year.
In Bhagavan's presence it is perhaps not coincidental that during the birthday celebrations each year with a clear blue sky, the stadium becomes covered with clouds to protect the crowd from the scorching sun!
Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences and The Super Speciality Hospital
This hospital carries its own story, which has been known through video's and articles. Professor Keith Critchlow with assistant John Adams from the Royal Institute of Architecture in London is the draftsman behind this magnificent building. Prof. Critchlow specializing in ancient Eastern architecture.
The structure, which contains over 15,000 square meters, was constructed within a period of one year in a village which barely had materials to put it up. An impossibility, according to W.H.O., yet it was done and completed, exactly as Bhagavan had stated one year prior.
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Tirupati, where catch the exquisitely carved gold gopuram of the Lord Venkateswara Temple, glinting in the sun. the Trimala shrine is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. This ancient temple has also found a mention in various Sastras and Puranas.That's not all. There are other famous shrines in Tirupati town - Govindarajaswamy, Kodanda Ramaswamy, Tiruchanur (Goddess Padmavathi), Kapila Theertham (Lord Shiva) and Srinivasa Managapuram (Sri Venkateswara).
Chandragiri
After temple bells and shrines, visit the Chandragiri Fort built on a huge rock about 56 mts high. Discover the remains of palaces and temples.Relieve the lives of the Vijayanagar Royal Families in the Raja and Rani Mahal.Coming up shortly, is an exciting sound and light show which will add a perfect touch to your evening!
Kailasanatha Kana
Don't miss the lovely Kailasanatha Kona natural waterfall in the valley of Nagari Hill near Puttur. It is believed that a batch at this mineral rich waterfall, has curative effects.
Horsley Hills
Looking for a quiet end to your holiday? Stop by at Horsley Hills, located at an altitude of 1265 mts. The delightfully cool hills are named after W.D. Horsley - a one time collector of Cuddapah District, who chose this spot as his summer residence.
Groves of teak, red sanders, eucalyptus, gulmohar, and enchant you.
Sri Kalahasti
There's nothing like a good story to add flavour to your tour. Close to Tirupati, is the sacred shrine of Vayu the wind God at Kalahasti town. There's a legend that the Linga here was worshipped by a spider (Sri), a snake (Kala) and an elephant (Hasti). And that's how Sri Kalahasti got its name.
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VISHAKHAPATANAM |
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Vishakhapatnam is built along the seashore of the Bay of Bengal, and is bounded and broken by the bold headland called the Dolphin's Nose (357m above the sea level). The city boasts of a beautiful beach with a long beach road ending at nearly Bheemunipatnam on the northern end. The surrounding area is dominated on the west by the well-forested Eastern Ghats and farther east is drained by numerous rivers, among them the Godavari and Indravati.
The city is also known as "Vizag" and is surrounded by three hills, each of which has a shrine dedicated to a different religion - Venkateswara temple (also spelt as Venkateshwara) on Venkateswara Konda, Baba Ishaq Madina Dargah on Dargah Konda and Church of the Virgin Mary on Rose hill.
The History
According to the history, the city was named after the god of 'Valor-Vishakha'. It was a part of the Kalinga Kingdom, under Ashoka's rule in 260 B.C. It passed on later to the Andhra Kings of 'Vengi'. After this Pallava, Chola and Ganga dynasties ruled the city. In the 15th century, Vishakhapatnam became a part of the Vijayanagar Empire.The Europeans, the Dutch, the French and the English established themselves from the 17th century onwards and used this as a major trading center to export textiles, ivory, tobacco, indigo etc. This port is well documented in the histories of these colonial powers as well as in Indian historical records. This coast played a major role during the reign of the Asaf Jahis and the Golcondas.
A Prominent Shipbuilding Centre
Vishakhapatnam is an important shipbuilding centre; the first steamer to be built in India was launched in Vishakhapatnam's harbour in 1948. Vishakhapatnam's port has grown greatly in importance because it has the only protected harbour on the Coromandel Coast. Agriculture is the mainstay of the region's economy. There are major industries like Ship Building, Oil Refinery, Fertilizer, Petro Chemicals, Steel Mills and a Naval base. The suburb of Waltair, at the north end of the bay, is the site of Andhra University.Vishakhapatnam is the true spot where one can find the beauty of Andhra. From lakes to cool beaches, from beautiful hill ranges to caves and valleys enclosures, Vishakhapatnam has them all. A visit to Vishakhapatnam will definitely be exciting, enriching and refreshing experience with all its sun kissed beaches, caves and temples.
ATTRACTIONS
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is located in Vishakhapatnam amidst the scenic eastern ghats of India, flanked by hills on either sides and Bay of Bengal on the east.
Ramakrishna Beach
One of the loveliest beaches on the East Coast, the Ramakrishna beach is a favorite resort for tourists visiting Vishakhapatnam.
Rishikonda Beach
Just 8-km from Vishakhapatnam is the Rishikonda Beach, a golden, unspoilt beach, washed by the sun-warmed sea.
Kali Temple
Small temple beautifully constructed situated near Rama Krishna Beach.
Vishakha Museum
Situated on the shores of the Rishikonda beach, this museum gives historic insights of the past.
VUDA Park
Located in Vishakhapatnam, VUDA Park is a heavy crowd puller and has a dancing musical fountain.
The Harbour
It is one of the natural harbours in the world. A temple, mosque and church are located on hills overlooking the harbour.
Dolphin's Nose
A huge rock, 357m high, is shaped like a Dolphin's nose. The rock juts out into the sea, forming a headland on which is the lighthouse. This lighthouse has a beam that can be seen 65-km out at sea.
Kailasagiri
Kailasagiri is located on a hilltop and is a must to visiting place for all people visiting Vishakhapatnam. The charming hill on the seafront, affords a breath taking scenic view, especially towards Bheemunipatnam.
Mudasarlova Water Works And Park
Situated 10-km from the city, it is beautiful valley framed by hills with a lake that supplies water to the city. There is also a scenic 18-hole Golf course belonging to East Point Golf Club.
Submarine Museum
Another Attraction to Vizag is the recently setup submarine museum, one of its kind in the country and the first Museum in Asia to be build off a Submarine.
Bheemunipatnam
About 25-km from Vishakhapatnam is Bheemunipatnam. The most important aspect of interest at the place is the beach, which is perhaps matchless for its beauty all along the east coast.
Simhachalam
About 16-km from Vishakhapatnam is Simhachalam, famous for the temple of Sri Varaha Lakshminarasimha. Architecturally this ancient temple deserves high praise.
Araku Valley
About 115-km from Vishakhapatnam is the beautiful Araku Valley, with its bracing climate, orchards, and the Ananthagiri Ghats, which present an enchanting view to the visitors, is attracting tourists not only in India but from abroad too.
Borra Caves
At a distance of about 90-95-km from Vishakhapatnam are the Borra Caves, which attained historical and religious importance.
Ananthagiri Hills
Anantagiri is a breathtakingly beautiful resort sheltered in the lush undulating ranges of the Eastern Ghats. It is considered to be a perfect head off to get away from the blistering summer months. The Ananthagiri hills are on the way to Araku Valley and are famous for coffee plantations.
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Vijayawada, also called as "Bezawada", is 257-km from Hyderabad and is located on the banks of the Krishna River, and is bounded by the Indrakiladri hills on the West and the Budameru River on the North. Situated along the Chennai - Howrah and Chennai-Delhi rail route, this is the largest railway junction of the South Central Railway. The city forms a part of the Krishna district, spread over an area of 58-sq- kms (urban area).
Vijayawada or the "City of Victory" if literally translated gets its name from the legend, which says it was here on the Indrakiladri Hill, that Arjuna, the Pandava Prince, won the blessings of Lord Shiva for his penance. During the British rule the city experienced significant growth.In particular, the completions of the Krishna Barrage and the Railway Bridge on Krishna have helped the region expand its agricultural and commercial base. The famous Chinese traveller Hieun T`sang has visited this city. Today, with excellent communications, perhaps the best in the South where railways are concerned, Vijayawada become one of the big business centres of the State. Commercially, culturally and industrially the city is a very flourishing one.
Vijayawada is a must-visit if one wants to go temple hopping in Andhra. The abode of Kanaka Durga, goddess of power, riches and benevolence, is the presiding deity of the city. The city is also a base for visiting the Buddhist sites located around Vijayawada like Amaravati, Gudivada, Ghantasala and so on.
Also accessible from Vijayawada are the towns of Kuchipudi, Mangalagiri and Kondapalli, which are famous for dance, temple and handicrafts respectively. Another important feature of the place is the Krishna Pushkaram an all-India festival that is held once in twelve years. The most luscious mangoes, the king of fruits, are grown here and the region is renowned for its tradition of pickle making. So altogether Vijayawada presents a colourful and varied picture and can be termed as a business - cum - pilgrim - cum - tourist centre.
ATTRACTIONS Prakasam Barrage
Completed in 1957, the Prakasam Barrage is an impressive 1223.5m long, modern regulator and road bridge that stretches across the river Krishna. Its panoramic lake and the three canals that run through the city give Vijayawada a Venetian appearance.
The Gandhi Stupa
The Gandhi Stupa, 15.8ft high, stands on Gandhi Hill, which was formally known as "Orr Hill". This Monument built in memory of Mahatma Gandhi and was inaugurated by the late Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1968. It has the teachings of Gandhi inscribed on stone slabs .The Gandhi memorial Library, sound and light show and planetarium are added attractions here. Climb to the top of the hill for a bird's eye view of the town.
Vijayawada Hazrathbal Mosque
Hazrat Bal Mosque, a site of religious significance in Vijayawada. A holy relic of Prophet Mohammad is kept here and displayed once a year.
Mogalrajapuram Caves
Just 5-km from Vijayawada are the Mogalarajapuram caves having three cave temples, dating back to the 5th century AD. Out of the 3 cave temples constructed here only one is still in good condition with the idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka and others. The Ardhanareeshwara Murthy found here is considered the only one of its kind in south India.
Akkana and Madanna Caves
On the way to the Kanakadurga Temple are the rock-cut caves dedicated to Akkana and Madanna, who were ministers in the court of Abdul Hasan Tanashah in the 17th century. A short distance away is another cave that dates back to the 2nd century BC, which hosts the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.
Rajiv Gandhi Park
Walk able distance from the new Vijayawada bus stand, this is an educative park containing built-up structures of dinosaurs and pre-historic animals, with a playing area where one can spend time relaxing and learning. Musical Fountain: 7.30 p.m. to 8.15 p.m. Monday closed.
Gundala Church
Gundala Church is situated on a hillock on the eastern side of the town, at Gundala. It attracts a large number of devotees. A fair is held annually in the month of February, in which thousands of devotees participate.
Victoria Jubilee Regional Museum
The Museum of the Archaeological Department situated on Bandar Road contains beautiful sculptures and attractive paintings worth seeing. 'Buddha' Alluru inscriptions of first and second centuries, and Mahishasura Mardhani are some of the important exhibits.
Undavalli Caves
The Undavalli caves, in the village of Undavalli, are at a distance of 8-km from Vijayawada and nearly 280-km from Hyderabad . The high hill overlooking the Krishna river hosts fine specimens of cut-in architectural and sculptural models.
Bhavani Island
Located upstream the river Krishna, close to Prakasam Barrage, is Bhavani Island. Make sure you visit this picturesque island that is a fantastic picnic spot for holiday-lovers.
KanakaDurga Temple
Kanaka Durga, goddess of power, riches and benevolence is considered the presiding deity of Vijayawada. The temple is set on the Indrakiladri hill. The deity in the Kanaka Durga temple is regarded as Swayambhu or self-manifested, hence is considered very powerful. It is said that Adi Sankara visited this temple and installed the Sri Chakra here.
Malleswaraswami Temple
Adjacent to the Kanakadurga temple is the shrine of Malleswara Swamy on the Indrakiladri hill. Mallikarjuna or the Malleswara as he is known in the Puranas is said to have been installed by Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Panch Pandavas, as a token of their victory of the South.
Vijayeswara Swami Temple
The Vijayeswara temple is set on the Indrakiladri hill in Vijayawada. The installation of Vijayeswara is said to have been done by Arjuna, to commemorate his victory with Lord Shiva in the form of 'Kirata' (hunter).
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Warangal is located on northern Andhra Pradesh State lies along the Chennai -Kazipet-Delhi rail route. Warangal was the ancient capital of the Kakatiyas, an Andhra dynasty that flourished in the 12th century AD. The city stands out for its beautiful lakes, temples and wildlife. It is very rich in antiques and relics.
Warangal's fort, lying southeast of the present-day city, was once surrounded by two walls, traces of the outer wall remain, as do the four stone gateways ('sanchar') of the inner wall. A thousand-pillared temple, built in 1162, is located within the city itself. Warangal is now a commercial and industrial center.
Prola Raja of the Kakatiya dynasty founded the place in the 12th century AD, but some identify it with Worakalli, the capital of the Adeva Rajas of Tuluva Andhra or Telengana in the 8th century AD. Warangal or Varankal is believed to be the Korun Kula of Ptolemy, while another name is Akshalinagar, evidently Yeksilanagar mentioned by Raghunath Bhaskar in his Aravachan Kosh.
The ancient name of Warangal was known to be Orugallu or Omtikonda on account of huge boulder like hillock situated near the swayambhu Siva Temple and is also called "EKASILANAGARAM". In course of time, it was called as "Orugallu", and finally known as Warangal.Warangal has many places, which attracts tourists in large number. It finds a reference in the travel diaries of Marco Polo.
ATTRACTIONS
Thousand Pillar Temple - This temple is a fine specimen of Kakatiya architecture and sculpture. It was built by Rudra Deva in 1163 AD in the style of Chalukyan temples, star shaped and triple shrined. The 3 shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. The temple is famous for its richly carved pillars, screens and detailed sculpture. The black basalt Nandi, a monolith, has a lovely polished finish.
Warangal Bhadra Kali Temple
Situated on a hilltop between Hanamkonda and Warangal, it is noted for its stone image of the Goddess Kali. She is depicted with eight arms and carries a weapon in each hand.
Warangal Fort
Warangal fort is 12-km from Hanamakonda, which dates back to the 13th century. The Kakatiya king, Ganapati Deva and his daughter Rudramma built the fort. Though the main fort has been ravaged over time, the remains of the four huge stone gateways, similar to those of Sanchi, along with several exquisite pieces of sculpture can still be seen in and around the fort.
Ramappa Temple
Also know as Ramalingeswara temple, this is situated in Palampet village, which is 70-km form Warangal This is a magnificent monument dating back to 1213 AD depicts the glory and richness of the Kakatiya kingdom.
Kolanupaka
Kolanupaka, 80-km from Hyderabad , is situated between Hyderabad and Warangal. This was the second capital town of Kalyani Chalukyas during the 11th century AD. During this period the village was a religious centre of Jains, and ranks among other great Jain centres in the south. It was also a great centre of Shaivism. Literary evidences reveal 'Kolanupaka' as the birthplace of 'Renukacharya' the great 'Vira Saiva' saint, believed to be born from the 'Svayambaghu Linga' at this village and absorbed into it after preaching Vira Saivism.
Jain Mandir
The 2,000-year-old Jain temple of Mahaveer is a famous place of worship for Jains in the country. The temple is embellished with beautiful images of Thirthankaras. The 5ft high image of Mahavira is entirely carved of Jade.
Sri Veeranarayana Temple
The temple is constructed in the Chalukyan style around 1104 AD. The appearance of the temple indicates that it was originally a Jain temple converted into a Vaishnava shrine.
Someshwara Temple
Someswara III the Kalyani Chalukya emperor constructed the temple of Someswara. Rare specimens of architecture and sculpture of the western Chalukyan period can be found in this temple.
Kolanupaka Site Museum
Kolanupaka came into prominence when it was made the alternate capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas in the 11th century AD. The State Department of Archaeology and Museums established a sculptural gallery, which exhibits artifacts from the various historical monuments in Kolanupaka.
Pakhal Lake
A manmade lake completed in 1213 AD by the Kakatiya king, Ganapathidev, by harnessing a small tributary of the Krishna River. It is located 50-km from Warangal and spreads over an area of 30-sq-km.
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