Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar

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Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

Visakhatpatnam and Araku Valley circuit is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Every year thousands of tourists visit Visakhapatnam during the winter months and hence all the popular beaches and museums remain over crowded. I have visited Visakhapatnam for six times and have visited all the popular tourist sites for more than once. Hence on my recent trip to the 'city of destiny' , I was in search of some real hidden gems. Yes!! I have found some truly beautiful and unexplored places that you must visit. Here is the list!

(1)Thotlakonda beach :

This beach is located at around 18kms from the R.K beach. The road to this beach is absolutely beautiful as you would be driving along the coastline of the Bay of Bengal. From the R.K beach you need to drive towards the Kailashgiri hills and continue driving straight. The route is well marked with boards showing distance and direction. Once you reach the beach, you would be captivated by the beauty of the area. The deep blue sea merging with the blue sky and fringed by scraggy rocks. During high tide, the sea comes forward and the rocks get submerged. During the low tide, when the sea moves away little pools are formed in the rocks, where you can spot a variety of marine life!! In addition to this Thotlakonda beach would be completely crowd free expect a few local couples posing for pre-wedding shoots.

Thotlakonda Beach

Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)
Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

(2) Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery:

Just across the road, you would find a huge gate welcoming you to this ancient Buddhist site. The road to this site is beautifully maintained and you would be driving smoothing up to the top of the 'Konda'(Hill). This is a 2000 years old Buddhist site where there are ruins of Chaityas , Viharas, Votive stupas, Maha stupa and many rock carved structures. This site is recently reconstructed by the state government and hence is still away from the tourist radar. If you are a history enthusiast, then this site would definitely spark your interest. Also, from a park nearby you can experience a panoramic views of the blue waters of Bay of Bengal.

Votive Stupa at Thotlakonda Site

Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

Maha Stupa at Thotlakonda site

Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

(3) Mangamaripeta beach

This beach is located just about one kilometer from the Thotlakonda beach. This beach is secluded and has wonderful views of the sea and the waves crashing on the hard black rocks. What makes this beach special , is the presence of a natural arch formed by the action of the waves on the rocks for thousands of years.

Natural Arch at Mangamaripeta Beach

Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)
Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

(4) Tenneti Park and beach:

This beach park is located just about a kilometer away from the Kailasgiri hills. This park is absolutely beautiful with curated gardens and sea facing sitting areas. There are steps leading down to the beautiful rocks and sands beach! The best thing about this beach is a blue and orange ship which is stranded on the shore since 2020. The presence of this ship adds to a beautiful element for your Instagram photoshoots.

Ship at Tenneti Beach

Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

View from Tenneti Park

Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

(5) Bojjanakonda and Lingalakonda Rock cut caves

These rock cut caves are located at about 42 kilometers from the Vizag city in the Ankapalle district. These caves are situated on hillocks and have beautiful carvings and Buddhist structures inside. These caves date back to between 7th and 9th century. It is maintained by the government and a beautiful garden is being developed. However, very few tourists visit these caves and hence the site remains crowd free.

Bojjanakonda Cave

Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)
Photo of Five Hidden Gems in Visakhapatnam that Are Still Away from the Tourist Radar by The Rooted Nomads (Ria Chaudhury)

So, if you are planning a trip to Visakhapatnam, then do not forget to include these places in your itinerary. I am sure you would thank me later!

Happy Travelling!!!

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