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Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery is an interesting site on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam, on a hilltop in Andhra Pradesh. It is an ancient Buddhist site associated with beautiful viharas or monasteries. By visiting this place, you can have a great view of the Bay of Bengal. It dates back to between 200 BCE and 200 CE and happens to be one of the important historical and cultural landmarks. In addition to the relics that the historical place has left behind, there are various other attractions as well.
Location
Photo: eclicks_by_bunny / Wikimedia Commons
Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery is located about 15 kilometres away from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. The monastery is placed on a hill that is 128 metres above sea level, overlooking vast expanses of the landscape and the sea. Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery address is RCH5+CM3, Visakhapatnam, Kapuluppada, Andhra Pradesh.
How To Reach
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As the destination is located near Visakhapatnam, which is quite well-connected by all modes of transport, reaching Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery is easy:
By Road: The nearest point from where you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Thotlakonda is the centre of the city of Visakhapatnam, at a distance of 30 minutes.
By Train: The major railway station close to Thotlakonda is the Visakhapatnam Railway Station. From there, you can book a taxi or you can take a bus.
By Air: The nearest airport is at Visakhapatnam, about 25 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach the monastery.
Places To Visit Around Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery
1. Kursura Submarine Museum
Photo: Raja Ramakrishna Chinna Swamy Naidu / Wikimedia Commons
This exciting attraction in Visakhapatnam is truly a quirky peek into India’s aquatic history. This museum showcases the lives of submariners and the intricacies of submarine operations inside the decommissioned INS Kursura. Lying on the shores of Ramakrishna Beach, the Submarine Museum, Vizag, speaks of the daredevil actions of the Indian Navy. The remarkably conserved submarine will give you an experience of various compartments, control rooms, and living quarters.
Entry Fee: ₹40 for adults and ₹20 for children
Location: RK Beach, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year, but preferably mornings and evenings to stay away from the summer heat
Things To Do
Photo: R. M. Calamar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Walk this place amidst the ruins of stupas, chaityas, and viharas in Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery, Andhra Pradesh. Capture the scenic beauty and historical takeaway of this place. Sit in a tranquil corner for your meditation amidst a serene ambience. It is possible to have guided tours through which one can learn about the history and importance of this place.
Where To Stay
Photo: రవిచంద్ర / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
In and around Visakhapatnam, you will have plenty of accommodation options to stay and visit Thotlakonda’s Ancient Buddhist Monastery. From The Park and Novotel for their more high-end clients to Hotel Daspalla and Ginger Hotel for the budget-bound ones, there’s a name that fits every travel bill. For quirky Stays, check out beach resorts like the Palm Beach Hotel and the Bay Leaf Ayurveda Spa Resort, both offering tranquil ocean views and calming amenities. Most accommodation options lie a short distance away from Thotlakonda, making it convenient for the visitors. These include The Park Hotel in Visakhapatnam, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach and Dolphin Hotel.
Where To Eat
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The eateries in Visakhapatnam have lots of things in store for guests at Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery, regardless of their budget. Relish seafood at The Shack or have a range of international cuisines at The Square. For the regional South Indian taste, try Dakshin, and for the Andhra specialities, then pay a visit to Sri Sairam Parlour. For relaxed dining with ocean views, drop into beachside cafes like Lawson’s Lounge. These restaurants are located close to the submarine museum and the names include Sizzlers Ranch and Barbeque Nation.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Pratish Khedekar / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery is between October and March when the weather is perfect for touring around.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The overall journey to Thotlakonda would cost around ₹3000-5000 including travel, accommodation, and food, considering 2 days.
Tips For Travellers
- Keep sunscreen, a hat or a cap to combat sunlight.
- Do not pollute the historical site with litter.
- One can even hire a guide to have a more insightful trip.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for unbent mobility.
- Be mindful of Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery photos and contact the authorities before clicking them.
Thotlakonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery is a serene yet historical site that lies within the festive city of Visakhapatnam. This archaeological marvel, with its stupas, viharas, and hilltop setting that drew beautiful views of the Bay of Bengal, reflects ancient Buddhist culture and architecture. Make your trip whole and wholesome by combining and complementing a visit to other nearby places of interest, such as the submarine museum in Vizag and the Kursura Submarine Museum. Plan your tour with TripXL for hassle-free bookings and packages.
Cover Photo: Mr. Debapriya Hore / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
