A port city in Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam is also known as Vizag, Visakha or Waltair. The city is renowned for its many beaches, including Ramakrishna Beach, home to a preserved submarine at the Kursura Submarine Museum. Visakhapatnam is also the largest metropolitan city of Andhra Pradesh and home to the oldest shipyard in the country, ancient temples and spectacular caves. Additionally, the city is also famous for its saris, handicrafts, Kalamkari paintings, and wooden toys. As a traveller, you can surely span the city in a matter of two days to your heart's satisfaction. We have curated the perfect 2-day itinerary to the port city, which you can refer to and travel effectively in the city.
You can start your day with a visit to the picturesque Ramakrishna Beach, which is only 6 km away from the city centre. You can freely enjoy the refreshing sea breeze by taking a leisurely morning walk along the coastline. Afterwards, head to the Submarine Museum, about 3 km from the beach. There, you can explore the INS Kursura Submarine and gain fascinating insights into India's naval history.
Towards noon, you can head for lunch and enjoy some authentic Andhra cuisine at a local restaurant close to the beach. Don't forget to try popular dishes like Hyderabadi Biryani, Gongura Mamsam, and Pesarattu. Once you have had your fill and are ready for the rest of the day, make your way to Kailasagiri Hill, which is approximately 8 km from the city centre. Kailasagiri Hill is a 380-acre hilltop park with a panoramic sea view. The park has a lush green landscape, tropical trees, flora and garden locations. It also has a microwave repeater station, water sprinklers and a flower clock. You can take a cable car ride to the hilltop, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Bengal.
In the evening, you can pay a visit to the beautiful Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex, which is located approximately 16 km away from the city centre. The complex is an ancient monastic structure that dates back 2,000 years and is believed to have been constructed in the 3rd century BCE. It served as a significant Buddhist centre in ancient times. You can explore the ancient Buddhist ruins and learn about the region's rich heritage. Afterwards, you can proceed to Rushikonda Beach, which is approximately 11 km away from Thotlakonda, and experience its lively nightlife. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore or indulge in beachside dining at one of the shacks that offer fresh seafood delicacies.
Start your second day with a visit to the breathtaking Araku Valley, around 115 km from Visakhapatnam. Dense forests of the Eastern Ghats mountain range surround the valley. You can drive or take a train ride through the picturesque Eastern Ghats, renowned for their lush greenery and stunning waterfalls. Spend your morning exploring the verdant coffee plantations, tribal villages and charming viewpoints in Araku Valley.
For lunch, you must try the traditional tribal cuisine at a local eatery in Araku Valley. You can indulge in their specialities, such as bamboo chicken, chapati and spicy chutneys, for a unique culinary experience. After lunch, you can head to Borra Caves, located around 35 km from Araku Valley. These caves are known to be the deepest caves in India and are made up of million-year-old limestone. The caves measure 0.35 km in length and cover a vast area. Situated at 705 m above sea level, they are one of the largest caves in the country. You can explore the ancient limestone caves adorned with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.
As the day comes to a close, head back to Vishakhapatnam and take a trip to Yarada Beach, which is about 15 km from the city centre. Relax by the sea, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and golden sands. If you have time, visit Dolphin's Nose to watch the stunning sunset and take in the breathtaking views of the coastline. End your two-day itinerary with a delicious seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant, where you can taste the freshest catch of the day before saying goodbye to Visakhapatnam.
