If you are in Vijayawada and get bored with historical sites and temple visits, you must explore another tourist spot. We are talking about Prakasam barrage, Vijayawada. It is a bridge stretching over the Krishna River and connects some major districts in Vijayawada. The idea was to build a dam initially, but later this bridge was built which helped a lot in irrigation facilities too. The Prakasam Barrage Vijayawada becomes ten times more attractive in the evening because of its colourful lights. These colourful lights reflect from the Krishna River’s water and spread everywhere creating a magical view around. You will surely not wish to miss the chance to explore the beauty this barrage holds!
History Of Prakasam Barrage
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The Prakasam Barrage stretches over 1223.5 metres over the Krishna River and assists as a road bridge. The idea to construct a dam over the Krishna River dates back to 1798. It was initiated by Captain Buckle and was revised in 1839. Then in 1841, it was again amended by Captain Best and Captain Lake. It was finally approved by the Board of Directors of the East India Company with the support of Major Cotton on 5th January 1850. Though the affirmation was made, the work of the dam’s construction started in 1852 and was completed in 1855. Back then, it cost around Rs. 1.75 crore and gave an 18% return to the then government since it used to irrigate seven lakh acres.
After the end of British rule, a bridge was constructed over the Prakasam Barrage by the state government in the name of the then-chief minister of Andhra, Tanguturi Prakasam. The bridge’s construction was completed in 1957 and helped irrigate over 1.2 million acres of land. It is a major historical construction representing ancient architecture and superior quality of building materials. Even after so many years of construction, the bridge is still intact with the same efficiency. Prakasam Barrage, one of the first major irrigation projects of South India, also serves the Buckingham Canal. Other than this, it has three canals running through Vijayawada.
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Prakasam Barrage For Tourists
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Prakasam Barrage Vijayawada has always been an irrigation project. But what does it have for its visitors? If you are passing from this bridge, stop for a while and observe the majestic beauty around you. Clear water of the Krishna River, surrounded by hills, birds chirping around, soothing breeze, and a temperate environment. Prakasam Barrage Vijayawada’s location is a major factor affecting the number of visitors it receives, and the scenic view this bridge offers is worth watching.
Visitors may also go boating to get a closer view of the ancient architect of the Prakasam Barrage. Also, the calm surroundings near the river serve as a perfect picnic spot. The beautiful waterway, surrounded by hills, nature, and greenery makes it a perfect place to sit, relax, and enjoy family time. A serene and calm environment will surely melt away all your tiredness from the Vijayawada trip.
Places To Visit Near Prakasam Barrage
Prakasam Barrage Vijayawada itself is an attractive tourist spot. With a naturally majestic view around, it has hills surrounding the lake, and colourful lights add the cherry on the cake. But what to do after exploring it? We have covered these nearby attractions for you.
1. Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam
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Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam is locally known as Kanak Durga temple. The deity of this temple is well known as Kanaka Durga. It is located on the Indrakeeladri hill on the banks of the river Krishna. The temple has divine vibrations, and during the Dussehra festival, its beauty doubles. The temple witnesses a 10-day festival (nine days of Navratri and one day of Dussehra). People come here in huge numbers to offer prayers and seek the blessings of goddess Kanaka Durga.
Timings: 6 am – 3:30 pm; 6 pm – 10 pm.
Entry fee: No entry Fees.
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2. Victoria Museum
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Constructed in 1887, this archaeological exhibition is well known for its large collection of Buddhist and Hindu artefacts, from gold and silver coins to weapons, armaments, paintings, sculptures, and more. The building’s structure shows an Indo-European architectural style. Though a few sculptures were damaged, the building remains intact, holding the historical changes together. It is a must-visit place if you are interested in history, sculpture, or archaeology.
Timings: 10:30 am – 5 pm (Holiday on every Friday)
Entry fee: No entry fees.
3. Undavalli Caves
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These caves are cut from the northern slope of a hill and have 3 levels. The oldest caves date back to around the 6th century. These caves are protected by the Archeological Survey of India. A few elements inside the caves, such as pillared halls, show Buddhist culture. Some sculptures have profiles of the Hindu trinity, Brahma, Vishnu, Mahaeshwara, and Narasimha. These caves are surrounded by greenery all over. One can see the Krishna River and a few fine specimens of rock-cut caves from the hilltop.
Timings: 9 am – 6 pm.
Entry fee: Rs. 5 per person.
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4. Gunadala Matha Shrine
Image Credit: Chinnitalli for Wikipedia Commons
It is a well-known Catholic pilgrimage site. Gunadala Matha Shrine or Mary Matha Shrine is popularly known as St. Mary’s Church. The most famous part of this church is its annual festival, which is celebrated on the 9th, 10th, and 11th of February every year. Also, there is a museum inside the church that has a collection of valuable gifts.
Timings: 6:30 am to 7:30 pm
Entry fee: no entry fees
Further Read: Places To Visit In Vijayawada
The Prakasam barrage holds an important place in Vijayawada. Besides irrigation support, it also serves as a road bridge. Hills surrounding the Krishna River provide a majestic experience to all the tourists and passersby. The boating facility helps you explore the architectural details of the barrage more closely. Prakasam barrage Vijayawada gets lit up with colourful lights in the evening, giving it a mesmerising view. Now you have all the reasons why you must visit here at least once. So go, pack your bags, plan a trip to Vijayawada, and visit the Prakasam barrage now!
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Cover Image Source: Hari K Patibanda for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Prakasam Barrage Vijayawada
Where is Prakasam Barrage located?
The Prakasam Barrage is located across the Krishna River in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Since it is a road bridge, it can be easily located even if you are visiting for the first time.
What are Prakasam Barrage Vijayawada ticket prices?
The Prakasam barrage is a road bridge and hence, has no entry fee. Everyone is allowed to roam here freely, but activities like boating near the barrage cost accordingly.
What are the timings of the Prakasam barrage?
Prakasam Barrage vijayawada timings is one of the most asked questions. Prakasam barrage serves as one of the major roads connecting a few districts of Vijayawada and hence it is open the whole day, throughout the year.
What activities can be done near the Prakasam barrage?
You can go boating in the Krishna River and have a closer look at the Prakasam barrage from there. The cost of boating varies depending on the type of boat, the number of people, and other factors.
What are some other tourist places near Prakasam Barrage Vijayawada?
There are a lot of attractions in Vijayawada. Near Prakasam Barrage, you may explore the Victoria Museum or undavalli caves. You may also visit the famous Kanak Durga temple.
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