Best Places to Visit in N.T.R District – Temples, Caves & Riverfront Attractions

1.Mogalrajapuram Caves

5 km on the east of Vijayawad city, the Mogalrajapuram Caves reveal an outstanding glimpse into the spiritual and art heritage of the 5 th century South India. These ancient sanctuaries were cut into natural rock and now stand as mute observers to hundreds of years of devotion, talents, and architectural genius.

The site of the Mogalrajapuram is represented by five rock-cut caves, which are assumed to be of the 5th century AD. Despite the degradation of most of the structures by the passage of time, one out of the sanctuaries is rather well preserved, allowing the visitors an opportunity to admire the craftsmanship of stone of a bygone era.

One of the most valuable aspects of this structure is a statue of Ardhanarisvara – a unique image of Shiva and Parvati in one body, which means the union of masculine and feminine energy. This sculpture is considered to be among the first of its kind in South India, which makes the site more significant from the religious and historical point of view.

📍 Location: Mogalrajapuram, at a distance of 5 km east of Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh

🕒 Timings: Most of the time opens from morning to early evening hours.

🌸 Best Time to Visit: Oct to Mar, when weather is favourable for exploration

2.Bhavani Island

Hidden in the bosom of the Krishna River, Bhavani Island is one of the beautiful and tranquil getaways in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Lying unabashedly in a sprawling 130 acre occupancy, this emerald green island is a cozy cocktail of nature, leisure and celebration, the favorite pick for family, couple and groups.

Getting there to the Bhavani Island is a joy itself. A breathtaking boat ride transfers you from the mainland to the island while you are surrounded by peaceful waters of the Krishna River. The peaceful nature of the travel creates atmosphere for a day of leisure and pleasure.

Owned by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), Bhavani Island is perfect for picnicking, day-outs, gatherings, marriages and even business meetings. Beforehand, this serene and wide location can be used as a scene of events and functions, away from the noise of the city.

🕒 Best Time to Visit: The period is October to March (for good weather).

📍 Location: On Krishna River, close to Vijayawada

3.Kondapalli Fort

Built on a hill near Vijayawada, Kondapalli Fort honors the area’s great historical and cultural heritage. With elements of warfare, royal nobility, and artistry, this fortress lets visitors experience history in every part and carving.

A three-storeyed rock tower, with three grand entrances, the fort shows how defense and strength were valued in the past. Dargah Darwazah, the main entrance, is an amazing example of granite carving by artists from long ago. Over on the other side of the hill, the Golconda Darwazah links Kondapalli Fort to Jaggaiahpet village — an important gateway in historical days.

The Tanish Mahal (or Palace), the main treasure of Kondapalli Fort, lies between two hills. Known as a palace for rulers, it still has a sense of the great kings and empires that passed through its doors. A mysterious, deep reservoir is found close by, making the place even more enchanting and providing life-giving water to the fort before.

📍 Location: Kondapalli, near Vijayawada

🕒 Timings: It is open to the public from 10 AM to 5 PM every day.

🌸 Best Time to Visit: Visiting between November and February gives you the nicest weather and best lookouts.

4.Gandhi Hills

Gandhi Hills, which towers above the bustling city of Vijayawada has the serenity of history, peace, and panoramic beauty. Known to be the first Gandhi memorial made on a hillock, this place is not just a memorial but a center for education, Culture and recreation.

Occupying a height of 500 feet, Gandhi Hills has a 52 ft high Gandhi Stupa, the focal point in the memorial. It was on the 6 th October 1968 that it was inaugurated by Dr. Zakir Hussain the then President of the Republic of India. Supplanting the main stupa are 7 smaller stupas that represent peace and values that Mahatma Gandhi represented.

For those interested in studying further in Gandhiji life and principles, the Gandhi Memorial Library has a well-stocked library with books. Visitors can also have an entertaining sound and light show that creates an interesting account of the travel of the Mahatma – from his early days to his reign in the freedom struggle of India.

📍 Location: Gandhi Hills, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh

🕒 Timings: Tends to remain generally open in the day up to evening.

🌸 Best Time to Visit: October through to February for nice weather and clear views

5.Victoria Jubilee Museum

Surrounded by the busy M.G. Road in Vijayawada, the Bapu Museum (erstwhile Victoria Jubilee Museum) is a repository of India’s deep past and the artistic heritage. This museum is a cultural milestone of history, heritage and architecture brought together in one roof.

After being named after the legendary filmmaker, artist and author Bapu, the museum is a testament to excellence in creativity in all its forms. Every inkling of India’s soul is expressed through drawings, transitory artifacts, to the museum walls that serve as the Bapu Museum’s inner skin.

Operated by Archaeological Department, the museum contains an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings and artifacts. Among the exhibits are Hindu and Buddhist relics that date back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries, allowing aficionados to see ancient craft and spirituality close up.

The museum building itself is an exhibit — a lovely specimen of Indo – European architecture, over a hundred years old. Its timeless grace and colonial gracefulness will carry visitors to another time, not only a venue in which to view artifacts but a place in which one can feel history upclose.

📍 Location: M.G. Road, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh

🕒 Timings: 10:30am to 5pm (Closed on Fridays and public holidays)

🌸 Best Time to Visit: November to February

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