Introducing Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam, the coastal and industrial port city of South India, is also known as Vizag. Nestled among the hills of the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh, the city houses the biggest ship building enclosure in the country. The major port in Vizag leverages huge volumes of cargo every day. The enriching historical heritage of the place blends well with the urban living of present times. It is a place of ecstasy for all kinds of tourists as the city mesmerizes its travellers with hillocks, golden beaches, museums, monuments, caves, creeks and beautiful valleys.

The illustrious history of the city dates back to the reign of Emperor Ashoka of the Kalinga Kingdom. It later passed into the hand of Kings of Andhra followed by rulers of Pallava, Chola and Ganga dynasty. Around the 15th century, it became a vital part of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. However, it was the British, who capitalised on the potential of the city as a natural harbour and developed it as a bustling harbour of the country. The city is enfolded with three remarkable mounds holding the legacy of three religions. Sri Venkateswara Konda: dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Ross Hill: cathedral of Virgin Mary and the Dargah Konda: tomb of a Muslim saint, Baba Ishaq Madina. Summers are extremely hot and humid and monsoons bring heavy downpour.

What & where to eat

The city has a gamut of eating options ranging from Chinese to North Indian to South Indian. Due to its coastal belt, it also doles out great seafood platters that are simply divine. Check out the combo meals at the multi cuisine restaurant of Tulip Hotel or at the Vista Restaurant. The North Indian cuisine at the Dhaba Express and the buffet spread at Southern Spice are truly delicious.

What & where to shop

Vizag is truly a delight for the shoppers looking for ethnic goods. The city presents an assortment of silk sari varieties including Pochampalli, Dharamavaram, Ikat, Venkatgiri and Nadyupet. Apart, from saris it is also eminent for its handicrafts, bidriware, wall hangings, vases, hand woven carpets, Kondapalli woodcraft toys and Kalamkari paintings.