Exploring Vijayvada
Best time to visit Vijayvada: September To February, Especially During Dasara (Dussehra)
History Of Vijaywada
Vijayawada is located on the banks of river Krishna in the beautiful coastal line of AndhraPradesh , a southern state of India . Also known as Bezawada, this predominantly business city attracts many piligrims for its temple dedicated to Durga and also the city is a base for visiting the Buddhist excavations at Amaravati, which is 70 km away.
This city has triumph in its name. Vijayawada literally translates to "The Place of Victory". According to legends, the city is named after the victory of Arjuna, the Pandava prince of “Mahabaratha”, who offered his prayers atop the Indrakeeladri Hill and won the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The cosmopolitan city of vijayawada is surrounded by many important places. The towns, Kuchipudi, Mangalagiri and Kondapalli, which are famous for dance, temples and handicrafts respectively, are easily accessible from Vijayawada .
"Prakasam Barrage and the railway bridge across the river have helped the region expand its agricultural and commercial base. The regions around the city have a fertile soil and are irrigated by the river Krishna , which runs through the heart of the city. Hence the city presents a colorful and varied picture and is a bustling center for business, pilgrimage, tourism, agriculture and higher education. With rapid strides taken in these areas, Vijayawada is looking forward to an exciting future.
Vijayawada- The City of Victory
Amaravati StupVijayawada, also called as "Bezawada", is 257-km from Hyderabad and is located on the banks of the Krishna River, and is bounded by the Indrakiladri hills on the West and the Budameru River on the North. Situated along the Chennai- Howrah and Chennai-Delhi rail route, this is the largest railway junction of the South Central Railway. The city forms a part of the Krishna district, spread over an area of 58-sq- kms (urban area).
Vijayawada or the "City of Victory" if literally translated gets its name from the legend, which says it was here on the Indrakiladri Hill, that Arjuna, the Pandava Prince, won the blessings of Lord Shiva for his penance. During the British rule the city experienced significant growth.
In particular, the completions of the Krishna Barrage and the Railway Bridge on Krishna have helped the region expand its agricultural and commercial base. The famous Chinese traveller Hieun T`sang has visited this city. Today, with excellent communications, perhaps the best in the South where railways are concerned, Vijayawada become one of the big business centres of the State. Commercially, culturally and industrially the city is a very flourishing one.
Sightseeing in Vijayawada
Completed in 1957, the Prakasam Barrage is an impressive 1223.5m long, modern regulator and road bridge that stretches across the river Krishna. Its panoramic lake and the three canals that run through the city give Vijayawada a Venetian appearance.
Prakasam BarrageThe Museum of the Archaeological Department situated on Bandar Road contains beautiful sculptures and attractive paintings worth seeing. 'Buddha' Alluru inscriptions of first and second centuries, and Mahishasura Mardhani are some of the important exhibits.
Located upstream the river Krishna, close to Prakasam Barrage, is Bhavani Island. Make sure you visit this picturesque island that is a fantastic picnic spot for holiday-lovers.
Gundala Church is situated on a hillock on the eastern side of the town, at Gundala. It attracts a large number of devotees. A fair is held annually in the month of February, in which thousands of devotees participate.
The Undavalli caves, in the village of Undavalli, are at a distance of 8-km from Vijayawada and nearly 280-km from Hyderabad. The high hill overlooking the Krishna river hosts fine specimens of cut-in architectural and sculptural models.
Kanaka Durga, goddess of power, riches and benevolence is considered the presiding deity of Vijayawada. The temple is set on the Indrakiladri hill. The deity in the Kanaka Durga temple is regarded as Swayambhu or self-manifested, hence is considered very powerful. It is said that Adi Sankara visited this temple and installed the Sri Chakra here.
Excursions of Vijayawada
Plan your visit
A useful journey leaves room for local discoveries. Start with these essentials, then verify operational details from primary sources.
Pick a few nearby cities or landmarks rather than trying to cover a whole state in one short trip.
Compare temperature, rainfall and festival periods for the specific part of the region you will visit.
Include time for food, museums, crafts and the places that matter to local communities.
Confirm transport, permits, accommodation and opening dates directly from reliable sources.
Photos and places to remember
More journeys to discover
Frequently asked questions
What is Vijayvada known for?
Vijayvada is explored in this guide through its local heritage, visitor attractions, culture and images. The highlights and linked articles below offer starting points for your itinerary.
How should I plan a first visit to Vijayvada?
Choose a few nearby highlights in Vijayvada, group them by area and allow flexibility for travel, meals and rest. Confirm the latest access information with official providers.
When is the best time to visit Vijayvada?
The most comfortable time depends on local weather, festivals and your planned activities. Check current seasonal forecasts and any attraction-specific closure notices for Vijayvada.
Where can I confirm ticket prices and opening times in Vijayvada?
Check the official tourism authority or the individual venue before departure. This page intentionally does not repeat potentially outdated prices or hours.
Is this Vijayvada guide updated?
This page was rebuilt from legacy IndiaCityTrip content on October 23, 2026. Older descriptive material has been reorganized; operational details still require direct verification.