Things To Do
in Vishākhapatnam

Vishākhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a coastal city in southeastern India, renowned for its picturesque beaches and vibrant culture. Nestled between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal, it boasts a rich maritime history and serves as a significant port city. With a blend of modern urban life and traditional heritage, Vizag is famous for its lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and beautiful coastline.

The city is also a hub for education and tourism, attracting visitors with its historical sites and natural wonders.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Submarine Museum (INS Kurusura) located on the beach, followed by breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Head to the stunning Kailasagiri hilltop for panoramic views and enjoy a cable car ride. Afterward, explore the nearby VUDA Park.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the Marine Drive promenade, enjoying the sunset and dining at a seaside restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the picturesque Rishikonda Beach for some morning relaxation or water sports.

afternoon
:

Explore the ancient Buddhist ruins at Thotlakonda and visit the historic Simhachalam Temple.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance at a local theater or experience the nightlife in the Beach Road area, filled with bars and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🏨Budget Hotel Room$20
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$0.50
Coffee at a Café$2
👕Clothing Item$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Variety of outdoor activities and water sports
  • Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities
  • "Namaskaram" - Hello
  • "Dāni ki dhanyavādalu" - Thank you
  • "Nēnu bhālunnānu" - I am fine
  • "Ēmi kāvalē" - What do you need?
  • "Vellandi" - Come here

Places to Visit in Vishākhapatnam

Visit one of these nice places.

Kailasagiri

A hilltop park with stunning views of the city and the sea, perfect for capturing breathtaking sunsets.

Rishikonda Beach

Known for its golden sands and clear waters, this beach is a great spot for both sunrise and sunset photography.

Borra Caves

An impressive natural wonder with stalactites and stalagmites, offering unique photographic opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vishākhapatnam

Vishākhapatnam offers a delectable array of local dishes that reflect its rich culinary heritage, making it a food lover's paradise.

Vishākhapatnam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pesarattu

A green gram dosa, typically served with ginger chutney, perfect for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Seafood Curry

A spicy, aromatic curry made with fresh catch from the Bay of Bengal, enjoyed with rice.

Pulihora

Tamarind rice, a tangy and savory dish commonly found in local households.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jalari Street

Famous for its street food, including spicy snacks and sweets, perfect for an evening stroll.

MVP Colony Market

A bustling market where you can sample a variety of local delicacies and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vishākhapatnam experiences a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching around 40°C, while monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures. Winters are mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 25°C. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the weather is comfortable and ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders; it's customary to touch their feet as a sign of respect.

Dress Modestly

Wear conservative clothing, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs.

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vishākhapatnam is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard safety precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and being cautious with personal belongings. It's also wise to be aware of local customs and engage with locals respectfully. Always keep emergency contact numbers handy and consider having travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Vishākhapatnam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; generally, a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments through apps like Paytm and Google Pay are becoming popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (March to June)

Expect hot and humid weather with temperatures soaring up to 40°C. It's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Monsoon (July to September)

Heavy rainfall is common, making it a lush green period, but potential flooding can disrupt travel plans.

Autumn (October to November)

A pleasant season with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Winter (December to February)

Mild and comfortable weather with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C, perfect for sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Vishākhapatnam at Night

Vishākhapatnam has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs that cater to diverse tastes. Beach Road is a popular area for nightlife, featuring live music venues and beachside lounges. Local breweries and rooftop bars provide stunning views of the coastline, while night markets offer a taste of local street food and shopping. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Vishākhapatnam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kailasagiri Hill Trek

An easy trek that offers stunning views of the Vizag coastline and lush greenery, perfect for a day hike.

Araku Valley Trek

A more challenging trek through coffee plantations and tribal villages, providing a unique glimpse into the local culture.

Airports

How to reach Vishākhapatnam by plane.

Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ)

Located about 10 km from the city center, this international airport connects Vishākhapatnam with major Indian cities and some international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vishākhapatnam is moderately walkable, especially in areas like Beach Road and the city center, where sidewalks are available. However, some neighborhoods may lack pedestrian infrastructure. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious while crossing roads due to traffic. Using public transport or rideshare services can complement walking for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Telugu Speakers

The majority of the population speaks Telugu, the official language of the state of Andhra Pradesh.

Migrants and Students

Vishākhapatnam attracts many migrants and students due to its educational institutions and job opportunities in various sectors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in Vishākhapatnam, with locals passionately following national and international matches.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi, a traditional Indian sport, is also widely played and enjoyed, with local tournaments attracting spectators.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vishākhapatnam can be congested, particularly during peak hours. Major roads and junctions often experience slow movement due to the volume of vehicles. Public transportation includes buses and auto-rickshaws, which are convenient for getting around the city. Ride-sharing apps are also popular among locals and tourists alike.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vishākhapatnam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, making it easy for vegetarians to find suitable meals.

Gluten-Free

While traditional Indian food is mostly gluten-free, be sure to specify your dietary needs when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Vishākhapatnam has a range of healthcare facilities, including government hospitals, private clinics, and specialty hospitals. The healthcare system is generally reliable, with well-trained medical professionals. Pharmacies are widely available, and many hospitals have English-speaking staff. Travelers should consider having travel insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

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