Places to Visit in Vijayawada

The Bhavani Island is one of the largest islands of its kind to occupy a river, which makes it an iconic attraction in the city. Due to its geographical location and structure, it has proved itself to be the perfect place for visitors to come and relax. For those who find interest in having adventure and enjoy activities like water slides, this will be the perfect place to spend a weekend.

You will need to take a boat to get to the island, which is an exhilarating ride in itself, taking you through scenic views of the lush green surroundings and the beautiful Krishna River. A number of other activities, such as water skiing, parasailing, kayaking and fishing can also be enjoyed while you relax at the island or simply take a nap at a hammock. 

Location: Bhavanipuram Bhavani Island, Vijayawada India

Price: No entry fee

Timing: Any time of the day

Best Time to Visit: October to March

The temple houses a beautiful shrine of Goddess Durga, surrounded by astonishing architecture which takes inspiration from Dravidian style. The idol located in the temple premises is regarded as one of the shakti peethas, which are located all over the country. Located atop the Indrakeeladri hills, the temple lies along the banks of the Krishna River.

The temple is highly revered among its followers, and gains even more prominence given that it finds a mention among various sacred texts and ancient literature. If you are an avid devotee, coming to this temple for the worship of the supreme, it is suggested that you take note of the temple timings, seva schedule and the rules of darshan, to make the most of your visit. 

Location: Indrakeeladri, Durga Temple Ghat Road, Mallikarjunapeta, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520001, India

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Closed on Thursday

Best Time to Visit: October to March

The Undavalli Caves are undeniably a marvel of historical creations, which speak a story with every cut of the rock. These caves exhibit a monolithic style of architecture that typically belongs to the Indian rock cut style. It is believed that these caves were carved out of a single sandstone on a hillside and date back to as early as the 4th century.

Today, the structure has gained national importance and it is believed that these caves are the first example of Gupta architecture that prevailed in the country in the times to come. The cave is divided into three different layers, with each of them depicting something that history buffs are bound to relish knowing about. The lush green surroundings around the caves compliment the historical significance of this landmark, making it one of the top Vijayawada places to see.

Location- Penumaka - Vijayawada Rd, Near Prakasam, Undavalli, Barrage, Andhra Pradesh 522501

Price: No Entry fee

Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Home to three temples, the Moghalrajpuram caves are one of the popular Places to visit in Vijayawada. At present, the caves have attained a position of prominence, putting them in the category of protected monuments in the nation. The striking features of these caves are the five sanctuaries, which seem to be rock cut and date back to the 5th century.

This is why these caves are highly popular among the tourists. While most images of the deities on the walls of the cave have worn out, two of them, belonging to Lord Nataraja and Lord Ganesh have remained well preserved through the years. In order to take a complete round of these caves, you will need up to 2 hours. It is a good place to visit for those with an interest in history and adventure seekers. 

Location: Siddhartha College Rd, Moghalrajpuram, Christurajapuram, Vijayawada, Andhra Prades:h 520010

Price: Rs 10 per person

Timing: Thursday to Tuesday – 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM; Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

This temple is dedicated to the Serpent lord, Kartikeya, located at the foothills of Indrakiladri hills. This is the only temple in the vicinity that offers the image of three different forms of Lord Subramanya. The idols are carved out of a striking white stone and decorated with intricate embellishing.

Located in the temple precincts is a Garuda pillar, covered entirely in silver, which holds immense significance for devotees. Another striking feature of this temple is an anthill that is located close to the temple and is believed to be a habitat of snakes, regularly worshipped by the people who come here. The surrounding landscape offers stunning views of the mountains, rivers and forests around the temple. 

Location: Kothapeta, Indrakeeladri, Behind Komala Vilas Hotel Hill Top, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520001

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 6:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

The Prakasam Barrage is one of the popular Places to visit in Vijayawada that exhibits an iconic structure, which makes the city famous. The structure runs along a stunning 1223 meters along the Krishna River and provides a connection between the Krishna and Guntur districts. During the night time, the barrage is lit up in a symphony of lights, which provides the most stunning view of the structure.

As a result, it draws both locals as well as tourists to stand from across a distance and appreciate the marvel for its beauty. The barrage gives way to the formation of backwaters, which look stunningly beautiful against a backdrop of the Kanakadurga Hills. The barrage provides scope for irrigation facilities in the neighbouring areas, along with a spectacular view of the Krishna River. 

Location: Prakasam Barrage Rd, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 523105

Price: No entry fee 

Timing: Any time of the day

Best Time to Visit: October to March

This archaeological museum is among the most popular Places to visit in Vijayawada that houses a large collection of various sculptures, artefacts and art work hailing from Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. Some of these collections go back to as early as the 2nd and 3rd centuries. The building itself is built in a typical Indo European style, which is why it is classified as a vintage structure today. For a history enthusiast, there is much to be discovered in this museum.

From well classified historic galleries that house stone cut writings, swords, coins, body armour, arms, ornamentation and shields, you will find a standing Buddha figurine in this museum, made out of white limestone. 

Location: MG Road, Buckinghampeta, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520002

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 10”30 AM to 5:00 PM; Closed on Friday

Best Time to Visit: All round the year

This temple is dedicated to Mula Nayak and is frequented by visitors from all over the world. The temple is by far largely known for its outstanding architecture, reflecting the typical Jain style, and dominated by serpentine carvings on most of the exterior walls. During the festival of Mahavir Jayanti, the temple witnesses huge crowds flocking to its precincts for worship.

The temple is very well connected via local transport options and given its central location in the city, you will have no trouble reaching there. If you are planning to visit the major Jain temples in the location, then you can visit this temple that takes approximately one hour to explore. When visiting this place, also plan the Lakshmi Narasimha temple that lies at a distance of 1 km from this temple. 

Location: Mangalagiri Hills, Krishna District, Vijayawada, India

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

If you are listing the best Vijayawada places to see on your trip to Andhra Pradesh, here is a unique mosque that holds a traditional place of relevance for Muslim devotees. The notable feature of this mosque is its architectural beauty, which surpasses anything that you might have already seen. It is said that the mosque is home to a sacred relic that belonged to Prophet Mohammed.

The dazzling beauty of the mosque makes it appear a splendour of white beauty that is a treat for your eyes. People visit the mosque, to experience the galore of beauty and architectural marvellance, apart from its religious significance. It is also believed that one glance of the relic can rid people of their problems, which is why the mosque receives heavy footfall all round the year.

Location: Vijayawada 520001, India

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year

Located at a pristine spot beside the Krishna river, the ISKCON temple in Vijayawada lives up to its reputation that surrounds its names across India. Like most other ISKCON temples in the country, it is built in a beautiful style, which in itself is reason enough for visitors to travel here.

The three storeyed temple is home to the idols of Lord Krishna and Radha, in stunning white marble, which entices the spiritual and humble sense of the devotee. The temple is popular for the regular chants of Om and Hare Rama, Hare Krishna, which build a very peaceful melancholy of vibrations in and around the temple. Regular events are organised at the temple and are attended by devotees in large numbers. 

Location: MG Road, Governor Peta, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520002

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year

One of the notable Places to visit in Vijayawada, the temple is located in close concurrence to the River Krishna. It is believed that the idol of Kanaka Durga is self manifested at this spot. It is also believed that the temple is the largest in Andhra Pradesh and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year.

The magnificent architectural style of the temple follows inspiration from the Dravidian style. Situated beside the idols of Goddess Durga are the idols of Sri Chakram and Lord Ganpati. The idol of Kanaka Durgamma can be seen with eight arms, and handling the Chakra, conch, a bow and arrow, a sword, a trident and a lotus. Every year, the temple is frequented by locals and tourists in large numbers. 

Location: Arjuna Street Mallikarjunapeta Indrakeeladri, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520001

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 4:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year

Located at an elevation of 500 ft, the Gandhi hill is a prominent hill location in Vijayawada, which garners the interest of many tourists and locals. Located behind the Vijayawada railway station, the hill is popular for the Gandhi Memorial which is constructed over the hill. It is the first of its kind of memorial to be built with seven stupas. Due to this, the hill is singularly sometimes also called  ‘Gandhi’, having changed from its erstwhile name ‘ORR Hill’.

The hill and the memorial constructed over it, pays homage to the father of the nation, and commemorates the struggle for freedom from the British. For the entertainment of the visitors, there is a library, a planetarium, and a toy train that can be enjoyed by everyone. 

Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Road, K. R. Market, Tarapet, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, 520001, India

Price: Rs 10 per person, Rs 20 for toy train ride

Timing: 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM, closed on Tuesday

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Among the notable Places to visit in Vijayawada is the Rajiv Gandhi Park, which is situated near the Krishna River that flows through the town. This park is replete with a variety of entertainment for children and elders alike. This is why it is hugely popular with the locals in the area, who flock to the park during the early morning and evening hours and relish a soothing time with their loved ones.

Inside the park, you will encounter an enclosure, which is made for a variety of exotic animals. Also popular in this park is the dinosaur park, where a large number of life size replicas of various creatures are parked. A musical fountain adds to the peaceful aura that surrounds this park. 

Location: NH65, Krishnalanka, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520001

Price: Adults: Rs 3; Children: Rs 2

Timing: 11:00 Am to 8:30 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

If you are looking for exciting Places to visit in Vijayawada, then you will be pleased to visit the Disney Land, which is located within the city. Renowned as one of the largest water park adventures in the city, there are separate pools for kids and adults, and a variety in the type of water activities that one can enjoy.

From aqua dancing to wave pools and many other thrilling rides, this water park has turned out to be a popular adventure spot for travel enthusiasts and locals. Visitors will also find a gift shop and a food court within the park for their entertainment. 

Location: Pipula Road, Junction, Ajit Singh Nagar, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520015

Price: Adults – Rs 120; children above 5 years – Rs 60, Children below 5 years - Free

Timing: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Closed on Monday

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Also popular as the Mary Matha Shrine, it is one of the popular Places to visit in Vijayawada. For the Christian community residing in Andhra Pradesh, this church is a popular and important religious destination. The beauty of the church comes from its unique location on top of a hill over which it is perched.

The church is notable for its statue of Mother Mary, which is worshipped with reverence. Notable among the features of this church is the position of the huge cross on a hill, another way of signifying the location of the church. It is believed that Mother Mary was seen at this church in 1858 by the presiding priest. It was after this that this place was built and the laying of this foundation of this shrine goes to Mother Mary. The Matha festival is the most popular event celebrated at this church. 

Location: Eluru Rd, Vijayawada, India

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

These caves are among the top Places to visit in Vijayawada, given their historic relevance and popularity. These caves, which are practically a temple, were built back in the 17th century, and are home to multiple idols like that of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

The name of the caves falls from the names of the ministers in the court of Nawab Gloconda and their active association with the courtly manners seems to have played a role behind it. The caves are built in a spectacular shape, exhibiting a unique architecture, believed to be rock cut. If you are planning to head to these caves, you can do so while you are en-route to the Kanaka Durga temple. 

Location: Arjuna St, Durga Agraharam, Mallikarjunapeta, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520001

Price: Rs 5 per person

Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM 

Best Time to Visit: October to March

It is believed that Lenin was a respectable figure and has made many contributions in the field of education. Perhaps this is why, in spite of having no relations with India, his statue is still present in the country, to mark the inspiration that he was. During the 18th century, the communist movement in Vijayawada saw many followers following his philosophy, which led to a major revolution during the day.

Today, the statue remains one of the most popular landmarks in the city. Standing on a raised platform, the statue was carved out of pure black marble. On the day of 1st May, many communists gather around the statue to mark the Labour day. It is worthwhile to visit the statue and observe its clear structure and built at its iconic location. 

Location: Lenin Center, Arundalpet, Governor Peta, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520002

Price: No entry fee

Timing: Open 24 hours

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Presided by Lord Vishnu, which is the main deity of the temple, this temple is believed to have been constructed in the 19th century. As the story goes, the self manifested idol of Shri Venkateswara Swamy was unearthed by a saint by the name of Dwaraka. This is why the name of the temple came to be known as Dwaraka Tirumala and Chinna Tirupati. The deity in this temple is placed such that only the portion above the waist is visible and the portion below that is imagined to be within the earth.

If you want to witness the marvel of South Indian architecture, this temple is an excellent place to be at. The temple also houses shrines of other lords, including Lord Anjaneya Swamy, Lord Garuda, and Saint Dwaraka himself. Also, it plays host to grand events in the month of May and December to January. 

Location: 35-1-14, Water Tank Rd, Mogalrajapuram, Labbipet, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520010

Timing: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

The KL Rao Park is one of the few Vijayawada places to see where you will find a host of activities to do and attractions to observe. The park is popular among the locals for hosting different events, which is apparent from the regular shows and programmes which are held at the park. For the enjoyment of children, the park offers various swings and picnic spots, where parents and elders can relax and watch their little ones enjoy themselves.

You will find a number of people walking along the trails surrounding the boundary of the park. You can also take your kids for a boat ride in the park and hike a bit along the sturdy trails. This park is excellent for sports enthusiasts to play volleyball, football and cricket. 

Location: Milk Factory Road, Fraserpeta, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520001

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM 

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Quite recently, the park has been revamped by the municipal authorities of the city at a stark cost of 30 lakh. Now, the park boasts of an attractive fountain, a beautiful vertical garden, play items for the toddlers, and LED infrastructure for lighting during the evening. These and other cleaning drives have made the park accessible to the public once again, making it a popular evening joint. 

This park in Vijaywada is not one of the most popular attractions in the city anymore, mainly due to lack of maintenance and facilities for the public. Until a few years ago, the park did have a stellar reputation that attracted visitors from the city to come and spend quality time. However, today the park remains barren in most places, with no toys for the kids to play.

The one notable feature of the park is its suspension bridge, which connects it to the BR Ambedkar park on the side of the Bandar canal. At this spot, you will find a commendable water fountain, mammoth size idols and other attractions, meant to woo the visitors. 

Location: Bus Stop, Kanaka Durgamma Temple Rd Near Old Post Office, Krishnalanka, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520013

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March