Everything You Need to Know About Vijayawada

History of Vijayawada

The history of Vijayawada, a city located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh in India, is rich and dates back thousands of years. Here is a brief overview of the historical developments in the region:

1. Ancient Period: The area around Vijayawada has a long and storied history dating back to ancient times. It was part of various powerful dynasties, including the Mauryas and Satavahanas. The region was strategically located on the banks of the Krishna River and was a significant center of trade and commerce.
2. Medieval Period: During the medieval period, the region came under the influence of various dynasties, including the Chalukyas and the Cholas. It was an important cultural and religious center with several temples and structures built during this time.
3. Vijayanagara Empire: In the 14th century, the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most powerful South Indian empires, exerted its control over the region. Vijayawada gets its name from this period, as it is believed to have been named after King Krishnadevaraya, a prominent ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire.
4. British Colonial Era: With the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire, the region came under the control of various local rulers. In the 18th century, the British East India Company established its presence in the area. Vijayawada was an important center for trade and administration during the British colonial period.
5. Post-Independence: After India gained independence from British rule in 1947, Andhra Pradesh was formed as a separate state in 1953, with Kurnool as its capital. However, in 1956, Vijayawada was chosen as the capital of Andhra Pradesh. It continued to serve as the capital until 2017 when Amaravati was announced as the new capital. Nevertheless, Vijayawada remains an important cultural, commercial, and transportation hub in the state.
6. Modern Era: In recent decades, Vijayawada has seen significant growth and development. It is now one of the largest cities in Andhra Pradesh and a major center for commerce, education, and industry. The city’s strategic location on the banks of the Krishna River, along with its well-developed infrastructure, has contributed to its economic significance.
7. Amaravati Capital Region: Vijayawada is part of the larger Amaravati Capital Region, which encompasses the new capital city of Amaravati, planned to be a modern and sustainable city that will serve as the administrative center of Andhra Pradesh.

Throughout its history, Vijayawada has been witness to numerous cultural, political, and economic changes, making it a city with a diverse and dynamic heritage. Today, it continues to evolve as a significant urban center in southern India.

What is Vijayawada Famous For?

Vijayawada is famous for its religious significance, cultural heritage, economic importance, educational institutions, and its role in the development of the new capital city of Amaravati. It is a dynamic and vibrant city with a blend of tradition and modernity. Here are the details –

1. Kanaka Durga Temple: One of the most famous and revered temples in Vijayawada, the Kanaka Durga Temple is dedicated to the goddess Kanaka Durga. It is located on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the Krishna River. The temple attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, especially during the Navaratri festival.
2. Krishna River: Vijayawada is situated on the banks of the Krishna River, and the river plays a significant role in the city’s geography and culture. The Prakasam Barrage, a dam and road bridge across the Krishna River, is another notable attraction in the city.
3. Amaravati: While not technically part of Vijayawada, Amaravati is located nearby and is famous as the planned new capital city of Andhra Pradesh. It has been envisioned as a modern and sustainable city with significant political and administrative importance.
4. Cultural Heritage: Vijayawada has a rich cultural heritage, with a history dating back to ancient times. It has been influenced by various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas, and Vijayanagara Empire, contributing to its diverse cultural heritage.
5. Education and Institutions: The city is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the Acharya Nagarjuna University and the Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences. It has a thriving student community and is known for its academic excellence.
6. Transportation Hub: Vijayawada is a major transportation hub in southern India, with excellent road, rail, and air connectivity. The Vijayawada Junction railway station is one of the busiest in the country, making the city a crucial transportation node.
7. Business and Commerce: The city’s strategic location and connectivity have made it a thriving commercial and industrial center. It is known for its wholesale markets, trading activities, and businesses, contributing to the region’s economic growth.
8. Cuisine: Andhra cuisine is famous for its spicy and flavorful dishes, and Vijayawada is no exception. The city offers a wide variety of delicious Andhra dishes, including spicy curries, pickles, and biryanis.
9. Tourism: Besides the Kanaka Durga Temple, Vijayawada also has other tourist attractions, such as the Undavalli Caves, Bhavani Island, Kondapalli Fort, and Gandhi Hill, which draw visitors from various parts of the country.

What are the Languages Spoken In Vijayawada?

The primary language spoken in Vijayawada is Telugu, as it is the official language of Andhra Pradesh. Telugu is widely used for communication, administration, and education in the city. There are people who speak Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, Odia, Kannada, Bengali, Marathi and you can find linguistic diversity reflecting the city’s multicultural population. People in Vijayawada are generally welcoming and accommodating of various languages and cultures.

What are the popular places near Vijayawada?

Here are some of the popular places near Vijayawada:

1. Amaravati: Located very close to Vijayawada, Amaravati is the planned new capital city of Andhra Pradesh. It’s known for its modern urban planning, government buildings, and cultural attractions like the Amaravati Museum. The Amaravati Stupa, an ancient Buddhist monument, is a major highlight.
2. Undavalli Caves: These ancient rock-cut caves are just a short drive from Vijayawada. They feature remarkable architecture and intricate sculptures, including a massive monolithic statue of Lord Vishnu.
3. Kondapalli Fort: Situated about 16 kilometers from Vijayawada, this historic fort is known for its panoramic views, the Kondapalli Kila doll-making tradition, and its historical significance.
4. Manginapudi Beach: Located approximately 80 kilometers from Vijayawada, this serene beach offers a relaxing getaway with sandy shores and calm waters.
5. Kanaka Durga Temple, Vijayawada: While this temple is within the city limits, it’s a major pilgrimage site and a must-visit destination for devotees and tourists.
6. Bhavani Island: Situated in the Krishna River, Bhavani Island is an excellent spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway. It offers water sports, boat rides, and lush green surroundings.
7. Prakasam Barrage: A picturesque dam and road bridge across the Krishna River in Vijayawada, it’s a popular spot for scenic views and a leisurely stroll.
8. Kolleru Lake: Located about 80 kilometers from Vijayawada, this is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India and an important bird sanctuary. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
9. Veeravalli Archaeological Park: Located around 30 kilometers from Vijayawada, this park houses ancient Buddhist relics and excavations, offering insights into the region’s history.
10. Hamsaladeevi Beach: Approximately 80 kilometers from Vijayawada, this beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and is a good place to relax and unwind.
11. Mangalagiri: A town known for its famous Narasimha Swamy Temple, Mangalagiri is about 13 kilometers from Vijayawada. The temple is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

Popular Hotels in Vijayawada

Here are some popular hotels in Vijayawada:

Luxury Hotels:

1. The Gateway Hotel M G Road: This upscale hotel by Taj offers luxurious rooms, fine dining options, a fitness center, and other modern amenities.
2. Novotel Vijayawada Varun: A contemporary 5-star hotel with well-appointed rooms, multiple dining choices, a spa, and event facilities.
3. Hotel Ilapuram: A well-known luxury hotel in the city offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and banquet facilities.

Mid-Range Hotels:

1. Hotel Marg Krishnaaya: A popular mid-range hotel in Vijayawada with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and conference facilities.
2. Fortune Murali Park: This hotel offers a blend of comfort and affordability, with modern amenities, a restaurant, and conference facilities.
3. Hotel D V Manor: Another mid-range option known for its comfortable rooms and dining options.

Budget Hotels:

1. Hotel Mamata: A budget-friendly hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms, making it suitable for travelers on a tight budget.
2. Hotel Manorama: A budget hotel with basic amenities and affordable room rates.
3. Swaroopini Comforts: This is another budget-friendly option that provides clean and comfortable accommodation.

Apart from these, you can also find a variety of guesthouses, lodges, and smaller hotels that cater to different budget levels.

Airport in Vijayawada

Vijayawada has an airport known as Vijayawada International Airport (IATA: VGA). It is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) from the city center. The airport has both domestic and limited international flight services, connecting Vijayawada to various major cities in India and a few international destinations. It is a convenient gateway for travelers visiting Vijayawada and the surrounding regions.

Shopping Malls in Vijayawada

Vijayawada has several shopping malls where you can enjoy a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and relaxation. Here are some popular shopping malls to visit in Vijayawada:

1. PVP Square Mall: This is one of the largest and most popular malls in Vijayawada. It offers a wide range of shopping options, including clothing, electronics, and accessories. There are also several restaurants and a multiplex cinema for entertainment.
2. LEPL Icon Mall: Another prominent shopping destination in the city, LEPL Icon Mall features a variety of stores selling fashion, electronics, and more. It also has a food court and a gaming zone.
3. Ripples Mall: Located in the heart of Vijayawada, Ripples Mall offers a good selection of stores, along with a food court where you can savor different cuisines.
4. Trendset Mall: This mall is known for its trendy fashion outlets and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to shop for clothing and accessories.
5. Haailand Resort and Theme Park: While primarily a resort and theme park, Haailand also has shopping options. It’s a unique place where you can combine shopping with entertainment.
6. Trendz Mall: Trendz Mall offers a mix of shops selling apparel, electronics, and more. It’s a convenient place for shopping in the city.
7. BRTS Road: This commercial area in Vijayawada has several shops and showrooms where you can find everything from clothing to electronics. It’s a bustling hub for shoppers.
8. Raj Towers Mall: Located near Benz Circle, this mall features a variety of stores and a food court. It’s a popular shopping destination in the city.

Restaurants in Vijayawada

Vijayawada offers a variety of restaurants serving a range of cuisines, including traditional Andhra cuisine, South Indian dishes, North Indian fare, Chinese, and international cuisine. Here are some popular restaurants in Vijayawada:

1. Babai Hotel: Known for its authentic Andhra cuisine, Babai Hotel is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Don’t miss their spicy Andhra meals and biryanis.

2. Barbeque Nation: This restaurant offers a buffet-style dining experience with a focus on grilled and barbecued dishes. It’s a great place for those who enjoy grilled meats and vegetarian options.

3. Southern Spice: As the name suggests, Southern Spice specializes in South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and a variety of vegetarian dishes.

4. The Minerva Grand: Located in Hotel Minerva Grand, this restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisines in a comfortable and elegant setting.

5. Andhra Ruchulu: Another popular choice for traditional Andhra cuisine, Andhra Ruchulu serves a wide array of spicy and flavorful dishes.

6. 5 Rivers Restaurant: This restaurant offers North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese cuisine. It’s known for its spacious and family-friendly ambiance.

7. Simply South: A restaurant that celebrates the diverse flavors of South India, Simply South serves dishes from different South Indian states.

8. Ohri’s Ruci & Idoni: This restaurant is known for its wide variety of dosas and idlis, along with other South Indian and North Indian delicacies.

9. Barista Café: For coffee and snacks, Barista Café is a popular choice among the coffee lovers in Vijayawada.

10. Khaaja Chowk: If you’re in the mood for Mughlai and North Indian cuisine, Khaaja Chowk offers a menu filled with kebabs, biryanis, and other flavorful dishes.

11. Blue Fox: A fine dining restaurant known for its multi-cuisine offerings and elegant ambiance.

12. 99 Varieties Dosa: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in dosas with a wide variety of fillings and flavors.

13. Ankur Family Restaurant: A vegetarian restaurant known for its North Indian and South Indian dishes.

Hospitals in Vijayawada

jayawada, being a major city in Andhra Pradesh, is home to several hospitals and healthcare facilities that provide a wide range of medical services. Here are some well-known hospitals in Vijayawada:

1. Manipal Hospitals: Located in Tadepalli, Manipal Hospitals is a leading healthcare provider offering comprehensive medical services and specialized treatments.
2. Ramesh Hospitals: Ramesh Hospitals is a renowned multispecialty hospital in the city known for its state-of-the-art facilities and expertise in various medical fields.
3. Andhra Hospitals: Andhra Hospitals is a prominent hospital in the city, offering a wide range of medical and surgical services.
4. NRI General Hospital: NRI General Hospital is a trusted healthcare institution known for its quality healthcare services.
5. Siddhartha Hospital: Siddhartha Hospital is one of the oldest and most well-established hospitals in Vijayawada, providing medical care across various specialties.
6. Government General Hospital: This government-run hospital offers healthcare services to the public and is an important medical institution in Vijayawada.
7. MaxCure Hospitals: MaxCure Hospitals is a chain of healthcare facilities known for its advanced medical technology and expertise.
8. Vijaya Super Specialty Hospital: This hospital is known for its specialized medical care and treatment options.
9. Samatha Multi Speciality Hospital: A multispecialty hospital providing healthcare services to the community.
10. Anu Hospitals: Anu Hospitals offers a range of medical services, including diagnostics and treatments.

Daycare centers in Vijayawada

Daycare centers and preschools often cater to the needs of children during working hours and offer various educational and recreational activities. Here are a few daycare centers and preschools in Vijayawada to get you started:

1. Kidzee Preschool: Kidzee is a well-known preschool and daycare chain with centers in various locations in Vijayawada.
2. EuroKids Preschool: EuroKids is another popular preschool chain with a presence in Vijayawada. They often offer daycare services as well.
3. Hello Kids Preschool: Hello Kids is a preschool brand that may have daycare facilities in some of its centers in Vijayawada.
4. Shemrock Preschool: Shemrock is a nationwide preschool chain that focuses on early childhood education and may offer daycare services.
5. Oi Playschool: Oi Playschool provides early childhood education and daycare services in Vijayawada.
6. Tender Hearts Preschool: Tender Hearts is a local preschool and daycare center that provides early childhood education and care services.
7. Little Millennium Preschool: Little Millennium is a nationwide preschool chain with centers in Vijayawada that may offer daycare facilities.
8. Nursery Rhymes Preschool: Nursery Rhymes Preschool is another local option that provides childcare and early education.

Old Age Homes in Vijayawada

Old age homes, also known as senior care or retirement homes, are facilities that provide housing and care services for elderly individuals who may need assistance with daily activities or who prefer a supportive community in their later years. Here are a few old age homes and senior care centers in Vijayawada:

1. Little Drops Old Age Home: Located in Vijayawada, Little Drops Old Age Home provides residential care and support services for senior citizens.
2. Little Sisters of the Poor: This organization operates a home for the aged in Vijayawada, offering a caring and supportive environment for the elderly.
3. Nisarga Old Age Home: Nisarga Old Age Home provides accommodation and care services for elderly individuals in need.
4. Sri Vatsavai Old Age Home: Sri Vatsavai Old Age Home is another facility in Vijayawada that offers care and support for senior citizens.
5. Society for Serving Seniors: This organization may provide support and services for the elderly in Vijayawada.

Educational Institutes in Vijayawada

Vijayawada is a home to numerous educational institutions catering to a wide range of academic and professional fields. Here are some of the notable educational institutions in Vijayawada:

Universities:

1. Acharya Nagarjuna University: Located in Guntur, very close to Vijayawada, this renowned university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines.

Engineering and Technical Institutes:

1. V R Siddhartha Engineering College: A prominent engineering college offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in engineering and technology.
2. Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology, and Research: Known for its engineering and technology programs, this institute also offers courses in other disciplines.
3. KL University: Located in nearby Guntur, KL University offers a wide range of engineering and technology programs.

Medical and Health Sciences:

1. Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences: This university is dedicated to medical and health sciences education, including MBBS, dental, nursing, and paramedical courses.
2. Siddhartha Medical College: A well-established medical college in Vijayawada, affiliated with Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences.

Management and Business Schools:

1. Potti Sriramulu Chalavadi Mallikarjuna Rao (PSCMR) College of Engineering & Technology: Apart from engineering, this institute offers MBA and MCA programs.
2. Nimra College of Business Management: Known for its management and business programs.

Arts, Science, and Commerce Colleges:

1. Andhra Loyola College: A prominent college offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, science, and commerce.
2. PB Siddhartha College of Arts and Science: Known for its academic excellence in arts and science disciplines.
3. Krishna University College of Engineering and Technology: Offers undergraduate engineering programs.
4. PB Siddhartha Arts and Science College: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various streams.

Schools:

1. Delhi Public School: A well-known international school with a branch in Vijayawada, offering quality education.
2. Sri Chaitanya Techno School: A popular chain of schools known for its competitive exam coaching.
3. Bhashyam Public School: A chain of schools providing quality education to students.

Popular Beaches near Vijayawada

Here are some popular beaches near Vijayawada:

1. Manginapudi Beach: Located approximately 80 kilometers from Vijayawada, Manginapudi Beach is one of the nearest coastal destinations. It offers a serene environment, sandy shores, and a pleasant atmosphere for a day trip.
2. Suryalanka Beach: Situated around 120 kilometers from Vijayawada, Suryalanka Beach is known for its long stretch of golden sands and is a popular destination for beach lovers.
3. Bapatla Beach: Bapatla Beach is approximately 85 kilometers from Vijayawada and is known for its calm waters. It’s a suitable place for a leisurely beach visit.
4. Ramapuram Beach: Located about 135 kilometers from Vijayawada, Ramapuram Beach is relatively less crowded and offers a tranquil setting for visitors.
5. Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary Beach: This beach is situated near the Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary, approximately 100 kilometers from Vijayawada. It’s a unique destination where you can enjoy both nature and the beach.