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Situated in the city of Vishakhapatnam, the Simhachalam temple is an ornate shrine which is revered to be one of the most important temples in the region. The edifice is perched atop a hill 800 metres above the sea level and is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, who is an incarnation of Vishnu himself. Simhachalam Temple is embellished with extremely detailed stone carvings and design and can be spotted from a distance. This is the only temple in the country where Shri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swami- who is a combination of the third and fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu- appears. Lord Narasimha appears here in the tribhanga posture and has two hands with the head of a lion on a human torso.

A shrine which follows strict discipline, the Simhachalam temple has detailed prayer routines for all days of the year which are undisturbed by the influx of pilgrims. This place is a treasure of traditional Vaishnavite culture, and you can study the same in the routine of the temple and the various inscriptions that it houses. Interestingly, the statue of the deity appears in its true form only for 12 hours per year on the day of Akshaya Tritiya. On any other occasion, the idol is covered with sandalwood paste. Simhachalam Temple has been a source of inspiration to many poets such as KuchimanchiTimma Kavi, Adidam Sura Kavi and the likes, owing to its rich history and strong traditional values.

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is a scenic location set amidst the Eastern Ghats and is a part of the Kambalakonda Forest Reserve. It acts as a home for approximately eighty different species of animals spread over an area of 625 acres and is one of the largest zoological parks in Andhra Pradesh. The Bay of Bengal is situated close by, which makes it an ideal destination to study flora and fauna right beside each other. Perhaps nothing ever delighted us as children than a visit to the zoo, and this destination does precisely that. With its dedicated sections for different varieties of animals such as primates, carnivores, mammals, ungulates and birds; this destination houses a vast range of animals. 

This park also has a separate section for butterflies and moths, which also makes up for an exciting study. This part of the park is open only during the day, as moths and butterflies cannot fly during the late hours of the day. The walls are adorned with pictures and information about these gentle creatures to spread awareness about them. The animal population here is perfectly complemented by the surrounding foliage of the Eastern Ghats, which surrounds this place on three sides. Located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, the zoological park is named after the former Prime Minister of India. The park opened its gates to the visitors on 19th May 1977. The area of the entire park sums to about 625 acres. It is almost always flocked by tourists, who visit this park to witness the myriad of creatures. There is even a mini train inside the park to view all of its premises.

Katiki Falls originates from River Gosthani about 90 kilometres from Visakhapatnam. The waterfall is located near the Borra Caves and is a famous attraction for picnickers and nature lovers. The natural landscape surrounding the waterfall is lush green and goes through an uneven path that adds an element of adventure to the visitors trekking their way to the waterfall. It is, therefore, an ideal attraction for beginner to intermediate level trekkers. There are several food kiosks on the way that serve snacks and beverages especially Bamboo Chicken and fresh Coconut Water. Taking a pit stop for a bite before proceeding won’t be disappointing.

The cool breeze, the greenery and the soothing sounds of the Katiki Waterfall will take off all the worries in one’s mind. The 50 feet high natural formation is a breathtaking sight from a distance. Do take a moment to listen to the birds singing their tunes as you sit in solitude or soak your feet into the cold river water. Those who wish to enter the waters can do so to enjoy some exciting moments with family and friends. Monsoons, in particular, are extremely beautiful with the natural vegetation thriving in the region. Katiki Falls is the place to be for those who wish to rejuvenate their souls.

Very similar to a dolphins nose, this 174 m high rocky headland is situated in the south of Vizag. The nose seems to be protruding out towards the Bay of Bengal giving it a rather fascinating look.

A renowned powerful light house highly useful for the shippers and has a light beam that can be seen as far as 64 km out at sea is also placed nearby. There is also a hill nearby named the Dolphin hill and is a restricted Armed forces residential area. The backside of the hill has a scenic, beautifully placed, secluded beach called yarada.

One of the most popular beaches of Vishakapatnam, RK beach is a beach for to spend some relaxed time, enjoy strolls across the beach, sunbath and more.

With a number of tourist spots in and around the area, one finds the beach engrossed in much hustle bustle. However, it is highly advisable to not swim at this beach, as it can be very dangerous and is said to have claimed lives in the past.

Yarada Beach is an entrancing site which is surrounded by hills on three sides and the Bay of Bengal on the fourth, covered with lush greenery and soft golden sands all over. It is an ideal location especially for the nature lovers as one gets to view enchanting sunrise and sunsets on this coastline. The beach is situated at a distance of 15 km from Visakhapatnam and does not remain very crowded. Since not many people gather here all the time, Yarada Beach is by far one of the safest and cleanliest beaches in India at present. The area is covered with coconut and banana plantations.

A perfect holiday destination which allows its tourists to spend quality time with their loved ones, the superb scenery gives an ideal backdrop to the Yarada Beach. The hills surrounding the beach make it appear surreal and perfect scenic beauty. Tourists can relax and look at the waves emerging from the sea along with the calm ambience of the beach where one can spend some peaceful moments away from the screeching noise and fast-moving life of the city. The beach is maintained well which is why so many tourists come to experience its beauty from all over the world.

The tourists can participate in various activities at the beach including taking a dip in the sea or making sand castles. One should try the local delicacies which are present at the beach. The deep blue colour of the sea, when merged with the golden glow of the sand, makes the beach appear heavenly, and a trip to the Yarada Beach should be on your list of must-visits.

The Rishikonda Beach also known as Rushikonda Beach is a stunning shore located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal in Vishakhapatnam, in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. APTDC, which is in charge of this natural beauty, has done a great job in the upkeep of the beach and ensured that this natural attraction remains unspoilt. The Rishikonda Beach is thus rightly named as the ‘Jewel of the East Coast’, owing to its essential and intact beauty. The serene golden sands of the beach are located in the bosom of the Rishikonda hill. 

Located in the midst of frothy blue sea and emerald greenery, the scenery that this beach boasts of is indeed mesmerising and breathtaking. This place is a favourite among water sports lovers because of the range of activities that are offered here. If you are in the mood for an adrenaline rush, you can indulge in the water sports that are offered here. The Rushikonda Beach is one of the few beaches that offers swimming under expert supervision, so do not forget to take a quick dip in the water. However, the beach’s natural charms are one of the main reasons for its immense popularity among local as well as foreign tourists. The Rishikonda Beach is an ideal destination for a peaceful weekend getaway and is located just 8 kilometres away from the port of Vishakhapatnam, making the place very accessible.

Located in the scenic locales of Vizag, Kailash Giri is a beautiful hilltop park perched at a height of 360 ft. Sprawling over 100 acres of lush green land area, the park is perched on a hilltop and it offers scenic panoramic vistas of the surroundings and the beach below. The highlight of the place are the magnificent 40 feet statues of Shiva and Parvati painted in white.

Among the attractions available, the best ones include Titanic Viewpoint, Floral Spot, Gliding Point, Jungle Trails, Shanti Ashram, Shanku Chakra Nama and more. You can also reach here in a ropeway ride that is another major attraction. Besides, there is also a Toy Train available for the kids. You can also enjoy horse riding here other than admiring the bounteous natural beauty. Bollywood films have been shot at the Park for its scenic views and the beautiful location which is at a juxtaposition of the Bay of Bengal and Kailasagiri hills.

Submarine Museum is located in Visakhapatnam in the south-eastern state of India. The museum is inside an actual submarine, INS Kurusura, which was India’s 5th submarine. The museum is situated on RK beach, near the War Memorial in Visakhapatnam. The beautiful scenery of the clear blue waters and golden sand on the beach serves as a perfect location for the Submarine Museum. It is frequently visited by enthusiasts who want to know more about living in submarines. The museum has artefacts, pictures and articles that share stories of strength, sacrifice and patriotism of the warriors. They give insights on how difficult surviving can be with limited space and resources hundreds of feet underwater.

The INS Kurusura served the Indian Navy for 31 years before it was decommissioned in 2001. Post that, it was used a museum to spread awareness about Indian Naval Forces, the technology used and its development in India. It is a one of a kind project that was launched by the Eastern Naval Command. The interiors of the submarine have been re-arranged to allow a clear view to the visitors. It is the only Submarine Museum in the entire of Asia. A visit to the museum is not only a must to gain some knowledge but also to rejuvenate a feeling of patriotism and pride for our country and for the warriors who fought and even lost their lives for our freedom.

Located on the east coast of India, the Borra Caves are situated in the Ananthagiri hills of the Araku Valley in Visakhapatnam district. Breath taking hilly terrain, beautiful landscape, semi-evergreen moist deciduous forests, and wild fauna of the Borra Caves are a visual feast.

A marvellous creation of nature, the Borra caves were formed when river waters flow through a limestone area, and the calcium carbonate turns into calcium bicarbonate, which is easily washed out by the running water. The most striking feature of the caves is its exquisite variety of speleothems ranging in size.

Borra Caves are deemed to be among the largest in the country and are perched at a whopping elevation of about 705 metres. They are basically karstic limestone structures extending to a depth of 80 m and are considered to be the deepest cave in India. The combination of sunlight and dark conjures amazing dancing shaped in the depths of the Borra Caves, which is a sight in itself.

Natural skylights in the caves make way for colourful imagery that imparts them a unique enigma of their own. Animal lovers will find bats as well as the golden geckos hiding in the shadows of the niches. The journey up to the primary destination with its picturesque location and a thrilling hike is a treat in itself. Visit this destination and explore the unique beauty of Araku Valley in all its glory.