Vijayawada

The third largest city in Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada is surrounded by the scenic Indrakiladri Hills on the west and the Budameru River on the north. The name Vijayawada means 'place of victory' and according to legends it was here that lord Shiva appeared before Arjuna and gave him the prized weapon 'Pasupathasthra'. Also Goddess Durga is believed to have rested here after slaying the demon Mahishasura in a fierce battle. What many would not be aware of is that some of the best mangoes in the market come from Vijayawada. The places nearby are known for its art and handicraft like the very popular light weight toys produced at the Kondapalli village.

Eating Out!

Situated in Mughalraja Puram, the Midas taste Buds restaurant serves traditional cuisines of Andhra Pradesh. Here you can enjoy true flavours from the state.

SpiceJet Recommendations!

Take a leisurely walk along the imposing Prakasam Barrage; Victoria Jubilee Museum; Mogalarajapuram caves, believed to be as old as 5th century.

Shopping

Vijaywada is a place where the shopping list is quite big, ranging from handloom products, handicrafts, furniture to pearl jewelry, silver jewelry and textiles.

Vijayawada is famous for its pickles and home made sweets and savories making that is a must buy for most tourists. Apart from these, there are also things like exquisite antiques, leather goods, pearls as well as semi precious stones. Kalamkari paintings and kalamkari works should also be a must in the shopping list.

Undavalli Caves
Undavalli are the best of architectural evidences of the past era of Andhra Pradesh. Found on the bank of River Krishna, Undavalli Caves possess a sculpture of Lord Buddha in sitting posture that is believed to be built between fourth and fifth century AD. Manifesting the excellent art of cutting the rocks to make statues of Lord Buddha in various positions, the Caves are formed in four layers.
Kondapalli Fort
Kondapalli Fort, is constructed on a hillock near Vijayawada. The fort with a three-storied rock tower. The fort got renovated later under the control of the Qutub Shahis.
A major attraction here is the dargah of Gareeb Saheeb, a Persian saint. The village is renowned for its toys known as Kondapally Toys. This is pleasant picnic spot attracting steady growth of tourists.
Kanaka Durga Temple
One of the most popular temples in Andhra Pradesh, it is located on Indrakeeladri hill overlooking the city as well as the River Krishna. It was built after 12th century by Maharaja Poosapati Madhava Varma, the ancestor of Vijayanagaram Poosapati Kings, according to History. He is the builder of Modern Vijayawada kingdom.
Gandhi Hill
The first Gandhi Memorial with seven stupas in the country was constructed on this hill at a height of 500 ft (150 m). The 52 ft (16 m) stupa was unveiled on 6 October 1968 by Dr. Zakir Hussain, the President of India. Gandhi Memorial Library, a Sound and Light Show on Mahatma Gandhi's life and a planetarium are the other attractions.
Prakasam Barrage
Built across the river Krishna, Prakasam Barrage has created a panoramic lake. The three canals that run through the city give Vijayawada a Venetian look.
Rajiv Gandhi Park
Created by the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation with great care, this park welcomes the tourists at the entrance of the city with its impressive horticultural network. A mini zoo and a musical water fountain are added to it.
Victoria Museum
A place for archaeology lovers, Victoria Museum has a carefully preserved collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, idols, weapons, cutlery, and inscriptions.