Vijayawada is known as the cultural capital of Andhra Pradesh. Being one of the most important cities in this region, it hosts many historical, religious and natural places of interest. Be it elaborate forts and caves or serene beaches and vibrant temples, tourists have no dearth of places to visit in Vijayawada with friends. From getting blessings at Kanaka Durga Temple, visiting the history-rich Undavalli Caves or simply basking at Manginapudi Beach, this city has it in for everyone. Prepare to have a fun-filled experience with your squad, one you will never forget as you explore Vijayawada’s colourful tourist facilities and historical and natural wonders.
Tourist Places Near Vijayawada Within 100 Km
Looking for places to visit in Vijayawada with friends in one day? Then here are some of the best options that are ideal for a brief weekend retreat. Unwind at Manginapudi Beach, visit the Lord Shiva temple of Dattashram or explore the spiritual vibrancy of Mangalagiri town, the choice is all yours.
1. Manginapudi Beach
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Situated 83 km from Vijayawada, Manginapudi Black Sand Beach is famous for its black-coloured sandy soil, which has been scientifically proven to have healing powers. Whereas the Ashwa area of the coast is rather popular with people who want to get a holy dip and with tourists. The sea surrounding the beach is shallow, and the sand is golden, which makes the environment very appropriate for morning and evening strolls and picnics. Standard recreational activities can also be practised, and it has spectacular sunsets with astonishing views, water activities, and a relaxing environment.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Must Read: Places To Visit In Andhra Pradesh
2. Dattashram
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A sacred centre of worship of Hindustan located 83 km from Vijayawada on the sea coast. Dattashram, situated in Nanded, is quite famous for the Lord Shiva temple and has strong religious connotations. This place attracts many people who come to worship and pray and offer their sacrifices to the gods. Many people regard this place as a pilgrimage site because of its serene atmosphere and the atmosphere of spirituality that seems to engulf the entire place.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM daily
Entry fee: Free
3. Mangalagiri
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The smallest hill town situated at a distance of 12 KM from Vijayawada Railway station, popularly known for its temples. Panakala Narasimha Swamy Temple at the top of the hill and Laxmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at the foothill are the prime attractions. Reacting to this, Mangalagiri has been visited around the calendar, attracting tourists for its cultural prosperity, eye-soothing beauty and religious significance.
Timings: 7 AM to 4 PM daily
Entry fee: Free
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4. Undavalli Caves
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Hindu and Buddhist rock-cut cave temples were found to have been established at 6, a few metres away from Vijayawada Railway Station and 5 km from the Bus Station. According to historical records, the construction was done during the Gupta dynasty in the 4th to 5th century; the caves have excellent architecture with beautiful carvings. Due to the many floors and incredible architectural design, the house under discussion is of great interest not only for fans of history and art.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 250 for foreigners
5. Kondapalli Fort
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It has a history dating back to the 14th century, with the fort and a distance of 23 km from Vijayawada. Cultural and historical significance, excellent geographical position, and striking buildings to become one of the largest centres for tourists worldwide. It is a captivating structure constructed on a hill; from the upper area of the fort, one can see the landscape around, and the fort also contains many antiquities, which give a historical background of the area.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry fee: INR 5 for adults, INR 3 for Children
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Tourist Places Near Vijayawada Within 200 Km
From exploring the architectural marvels of Rajahmundry to soaking in the spiritual serenity of Amaravati, the places mentioned below near Vijayawada are must-sees for all travellers. These places are perfect for short trips with friends to enjoy an unforgettable vacation.
1. Amaravati
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Sitting 33 km from Vijayawada, Amaravati is an ancient town on the southern side of the river Krishna. It is the new capital of Andhra Pradesh, where modernity coexists with the presence of ancient values. From an archaeological viewpoint, Amaravati is replete with Buddhist stupas and Hindu temples; therefore, it is a place of both Hindus and Buddhists pilgrimage. The current dynamism of the town and the extent of its cultural heritage make the town an attractive research workstation for historians and researchers.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry fee: INR 5 per person
2. Rajahmundry
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Marketing communication goals are the objectives set for communication across the marketing channel and are often expressed in specific and measurable targets. Usually, the definitions contained in that definition are marks of a marketing-savvy culture. Often described as the cultural hub of Andhra Pradesh, it is a perfect amalgamation of nature’s bounty and historical backdrop. Located in the famous city of Ramayampet, it has the heritage of ancient temples, great literary works, and the Godavari railway bridge. Not only does it consist of splendid structures, but one can visit the ghats here, take a boat ride, and, most importantly, capture the essence of the Telugu culture that is quite predominant in the city. It is one of the best places to visit in Vijayawada with friends.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: No entry fee
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3. Khammam
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Khammam is the district headquarters and is located at a distance of 198 Kms from Vijayawada. Entertainment amenities in this town are undeniably remarkable, and the revelation of geographic differences impresses from the beginning. Khammam is well known for its ancient temples like Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and is also an important economic city due to its natural resources like coal and iron ore. The city has different facets of tourist interest: religious, historical and commercial.
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: No entry fee
4. Kanaka Durga Temple
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At 160 metres, Kanaka Durga Temple is a famous temple at Indrakeeladri Hill, in the city of Vijayawada. Erected for Goddess Durga, this temple has existed for more than five centuries, and many devotees visit it daily. Due to its complicated design and association with spirituality, it is a major pilgrimage destination. Apart from being sacred, the temple has the advantage of providing spectacular views of Vijayawada city and the Krishna river, spirituality and nature. Here, the annual Dasara festival is exceptionally colourful and magnificent. It is one of the best places to visit in Vijayawada with friends.
Timings: 4 AM to 5:45 PM, 6:15 PM to 10 PM
Entry fee: Entry to the temple is free / INR 100 for Mukha Darshanam and INR 300 for Antralayam Darshan
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5. Nagarjuna Sagar
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Nagarjuna Sagar is 166 km away from Vijayawada and is a marvellous tourist place with a historical past affixed with modern-day architectural wonders. It has India’s biggest masonry dam and various water sports and scenic beauty are the destination’s main attractions. There is also a historical place of Buddhist culture called Nagarjunakonda, which is visible only by boat. Renowned for having the world’s longest dam, and the beautiful countryside landscape of River Krishna that passes by, Nagarjuna Sagar attracts those interested in archaeology, history, and especially mechanisms and marvels of engineering.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults and INR 15 for children
Tourist Places Near Vijayawada Within 300 Km
Discover various captivating destinations, including vibrant places to visit in Vijayawada at night. From the historic Kondaveedu Fort to the serene Kolleru Lake and the breathtaking Ethipothala Waterfalls, each location offers a unique experience.
1. Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple
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Situated in Seshachala Hill, 101 kilometres from Vijayawada, this temple is the holiest shrine. Also referred to as “Vaikunta Puri” or “Chinna Tirupati,” people flock to Turpu for the darshan of Lord Venkateswara. The design, carvings, and paintings overwhelm guests. The temple is located on the top of a hill, and one can see all the natural surroundings; hence, it combines spiritual and scenic sites. It is one of the best places to visit in Vijayawada with friends.
Timings: 5 AM to 2 PM, 4 PM to 8 PM
Entry fee: No entry fee
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2. Kondaveedu Fort
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Located 73 km from Vijayawada, this is one of the oldest historical places in Andhra Pradesh – the hill fortress. This one is quite ancient and dates back to the 13th century; it has great architectural marvels, including many gateways, temples and a reservoir. It also has a worthwhile view of the enclosing valleys because the fort was sited for defensive purposes. Historical lovers can visit its remnants, inscriptions, and archaeological sites, which make it an interesting place for those who wish to understand the history of that area.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry fee: INR 10 for Adults and INR 5 for Children
3. Ethipothala Waterfalls
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Located about 176 km from Vijayawada, Uttranchal is a darling of nature. Ethipothala Waterfalls is a splendid example of natural beauty where waterfalls form a height of 70 feet. Overgrown by small trees and plants, the waterfalls provide a wonderful atmosphere for tourists, especially photographers. It has a crocodile breeding farm and a small zoo, making it an interesting visit. Interesting activities that people can engage in include viewing the natural beauty of the waterfall, swimming in the pool at the base of the waterfall, and hiking around the waterfall. It is one of the best places to visit in Vijayawada with friends.
Timings: 6:30 AM to 9 PM
Entry fee: INR 20
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4. Kolleru Lake
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Kolleru Lake is another fascinating destination located 95 km away from Vijayawada, which is the second largest freshwater lake in India and an ornithologist’s paradise. Site 3 is another wetland ecosystem which supports several migratory birds and, therefore, is ideal for bird viewing. The calm nature of the lake environment, together with the magnificent and complex aquatic life, makes it a perfect destination for the busy city life. Tourists can take boat tours, watch various kinds of fish and other wildlife specimens, and feel the inactivity of this phenomenon.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: No entry fee
Further Read: Things To Do In Andhra Pradesh
When planning a trip to Andhra Pradesh, there are many places to visit in Vijayawada with friends. From Tirumala hills to Kolleru lake, one can find many destinations that can stun tourists. So, get your friends, prepare your luggage, and embark on this amazing trip through this interesting region. Get ready for your Andhra Pradesh experience.
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Cover Image credit : By Vivek prem tej.Pattabhi for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Vijayawada With Friends
When is the best time to go on a tour of Vijayawada?
Vijayawada is relatively hot most of the year and for tourists who wish to visit during the best climate, the best time to visit Vijayawada is from October to March.
Are there any regional delicacies we should not miss about the Vijayawada area?
Vijayawada is also famous for Pesarattu (green gram dosa) & spicy Gongura chutney don’t forget them before leaving the place.
How can one find means of public transport to move around in Vijayawada?
There are plenty of buses that are easily available for travel within Vijayawada city and auto-rickshaws are always available for get-around of the city and for visiting nearby important places.
Is there any annual event or carnival that is held in Vijayawada?
Kanaka Durga Temple has an engrossing Dussehra festival in October which is quite popular among tourists from across India.
What is the best method to use to explore the Krishna River while in Vijayawada?
For the adventurous one, there could be a chance to have a scenic river ride or have a laid-back time at Bhavani Island which is a riverine island park.
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