Visakhapatnam, also commonly known as Vizag, is a coastal gem in Andhra Pradesh. Renowned for its modernity and deep-rooted cultural heritage. With an abundance of things to do in Visakhapatnam, your trip to this place will be very entertaining. Be it a chill and laid-back picnic experience at Kailasagiri Hill Park or exploring the numerous beaches that are located around the city, the list of experiences seems to be never-ending. As you plan the specifics of your next big vacation to Visakhapatnam, ensure to have a solid itinerary planned so you can make the most out of your travel.
10 Things To Do In Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam offers a blend of modernity with tradition, making it a delightful destination for tourists to visit and explore.
1. Rejuvenate At R.K. Beach
Photo: Антон Залевський / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
There are numerous beaches in Visakhapatnam. However, Ram Krishna Beach is considered to be the most popular one in the equation. Stretching along the coastline of Vizag, it is a highly commercialised beach that attracts tourists from across the country with its golden sands and serene environment. The beach promenade is lined with food stalls offering local delicacies like spicy Andhra-style snacks and fresh seafood. Additionally, the area hosts several monuments and statues, including the prominent Mahatma Gandhi statue, which adds historical charm to the locale. You can swim in the ocean, relax and sunbathe on the beach and even go for leisurely walks around the area.
Location: Beach Road, Visakhapatnam
Timings: 24 hours
2. Go Picnicking At Kailasagiri Hill Park
Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons
If you are visiting with your friends or family, visiting Kailasagiri Hill Park is another one of the best things to do in Visakhapatnam. This is a prominent attraction offering a spectacular view of Visakhapatnam and the Bay of Bengal. The park is located on top of Kailasagiri Hill and the main highlight is the white marble sculptures of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. These massive statues are visible from afar and provide the travellers with a serene backdrop. The park is well-maintained with landscaped gardens, walking trails, and a children’s play area.
Location: Hill Top Rd, Kailasagiri, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530043
Timings: 08:30 AM – 06:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹10 per person
3. Explore The Submarine Museum
Photo: Tarunsamanta / Wikimedia Commons
For travellers interested in navy, underwater and submarines, you’d want to visit the Submarine Museum (INS Kursura), which is located close to R.K Beach in Visakhapatnam. The museum is housed within the decommissioned INS Kursura, enabling you to learn more about Indian naval history. The submarine, which was in active service for over 30 years, has been converted into a museum showcasing the life of submariners. You can explore different parts of the submarine, including the control room, engine room, and living quarters. There are several models and artefacts related to the Navy and Submarines available inside the museum as well.
Location: RK Beach Rd, Kirlampudi Layout, Chinna Waltair, Pandurangapuram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530017
Timings: 2 PM – 08:30 PM (Tuesday to Saturday); 10 AM – 12:30 PM and 2 PM – 08:30 PM (Sunday); Monday closed.
Entry Fees: ₹70 for adults and ₹40 for children
4. Indulge In Adventure At Borra Caves
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Borra Caves are an impressive network of limestone caves located about 90 kilometres from Visakhapatnam. The caves were discovered and excavated by British geologist William King back in 1807. The major attraction inside these caves is the natural formation of the stalactites and stalagmites inside them. The caves are believed to be around 150 million years old and offer a fascinating look into natural geological processes. Located at an elevation of 1400 metres, the majestic nature of these caves explains why they are such a popular spot among tourists.
Location: Andhra Pradesh 531149
Timing: 10 AM – 1 PM; 2 PM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹60 for adults and ₹45 for children
5. Find Solace At Rushikonda Beach
Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons
Among the fun things to do in Visakhapatnam, visiting Rushikonda Beach happens to be one of them. Unlike R.K Beach, this one is located slightly away from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it a great spot for you to relax and unwind. It offers a much quieter alternative to the other commercial beaches in the city. You can indulge in swimming and beach sports like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing, provided the waves are calm and the weather is conducive. The surrounding area features several small eateries and shacks serving local seafood and snacks.
Location: Rushikonda, Visakhapatnam
Timings: 24 hours
6. Seek Blessings At Simhachalam Temple
Photo: Adityamadhav83 / Wikimedia Commons
Simhachalam Temple is a popular Hindu temple in Visakhapatnam that’s dedicated to Lord Narasimha. The highlight of this temple is the blend of Dravidian and Kalinga styles alongside ornate sculptures and intricate carvings, which is bound to leave you in awe. The temple is renowned for its annual Chandanotsavam festival, during which the deity is adorned with sandalwood paste, giving rise to a unique and aromatic experience. Beyond the main shrine dedicated to Lord Narasimha, there are a few smaller shrines inside the temple complex dedicated to other Hindu deities.
Location: Simhachalam Rd, Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530028
Timings: 06:30 AM – 02:30 PM and 03:30 PM – 9 PM
7. Unwind At Yarada Beach
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Visakhapatnam is home to several beaches and Yarada Beach is another one you must add to your itinerary. The beach is roughly 15-18 km from the city centre and offers a serene escape from the chaos of the city. With greenery and tall coconut trees in the surrounding area, the beach offers a peaceful retreat to the tourists visiting. The gentle waves are great for swimming in but ensure to keep a check on the water currents to avoid any accidents. Unlike the more crowded beaches, Yarada Beach offers a more private and serene experience, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic beauty and peaceful ambience in solitude.
Location: Yarada Village, Visakhapatnam
Timings: 24 hours
8. Visit The Visakha Museum
Photo: Krishna Chaitanya Velaga / Wikimedia Commons
To answer your question about what to do in Visakhapatnam, you must head to the Visakha Museum to learn more about this port city. The museum is located in the heart of the city and houses a variety of ancient coins, sculptures, weapons and other artefacts too. The individual exhibits inside the museum provide the visitors with a glimpse into the rich maritime history of the city, showcasing models of ships and naval artefacts as well. The museum was built back in 1854 by the Deputy Commissioner of Chota Nagpur and there are four galleries and even an amphitheatre inside the museum.
Location: 505, Dr NTR Beach Rd, opposite Palm Beach Hotel, Dutch Layout, Kirlampudi Layout, Chinna Waltair, Pandurangapuram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530017
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM (Friday closed)
9. Plan A Day Trip To Araku Valley
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For a break from the daily monotony of your life, consider heading to Araku Valley from Visakhapatnam. This beautiful hill station is best accessed via trains that leave from Visakhapatnam early in the morning and is renowned for its coffee plantations and lush landscapes. You can explore a variety of sightseeing spots while you are there, including the Tribal Museum which offers an insightful look into the lives and cultures of the local tribal communities. You can also explore the adventure spots, caves, and waterfalls there. Also, don’t miss out on experiencing the staple bamboo chicken while there.
Location: 113 km from Visakhapatnam
Timings: 24 Hours
10. Witness City Views From Dolphin’s Nose
Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons
Dolphin’s Nose is a prominent headland that offers panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal and the cityscape of Visakhapatnam. The distinctive shape of this headland is the primary reason behind its name and the area is presumably popular for its natural beauty and the lighthouse that stands there. It has been guiding the ships around since 1970. The vantage point offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the sprawling city, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation. You do have to climb to the top to access the viewpoint and bear witness to the surrounding relatively unspoiled views.
Location: Dolphin Hill, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530005
Timings: 3 PM – 5 PM
Entry fee: ₹30 for adults and ₹10 for children
If you are wondering about the things to do in Visakhapatnam, the list is fairly long and the experiences are quite extensive. Be it the lively beaches and serene hill stations to historical landmarks and unique museums, the city provides a wealth of activities that promise to captivate and engage visitors. Ensure that you plan your trip to Visakhapatnam with TripXL to seek the best deals in the market.
Cover Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commmons