Historically
considered as the cultural, political, pilgrimage and educational center of
the state, Vijayawada is located on the banks of the holy river Krishna. It
is believed that Arjuna, of the epic Mahabharatha prayed at the Indrakeeladri
Hill and won the blessings of Lord Shiva. People from this land of legends
gathering thousands for a dip in river Krishna on important festivals particularly
on Mahasivarathri. Krishna Pushkaram occurs once in 12 years is an all India
festival and lakhs of people pay their homage to the sacred Krishnaveni. Arjuna
obtained the famous "Pasupathastra" after doing penance of "Indrakeela"
hill.
The Prakasam Barrage constructed in 1957 with an impressive 1223 meters long
across the river Krishna is a panoramic beauty of Vijayawada.
Kanakadurga Temple:
Built a top Indra Keeladri a sacred Kankadurga Temple is synonymous with Vijayawada.
Kanakadurga, the Goddess of power, riches and benevolence is considered to
be the presiding deity of Vijayawada. During Dassara, one of the important
festivals of this country special celebrations are held. The rock cut caves
dedicated to Akkanna, Madhanna on the way to the Kanakadurga Temple remainds
the Qutub Shahi rules of 17th Century.
Victoria Museum:
Located in Victory city of Vijayawada, having collection of ancient sculpture,
paintings, idols, inscriptions, the Victoria Museum is one of the center of
attraction.
Gandhi Hill:
A visit to the tallest structure of 15.8 meters the Gandhi Stupa a top Gandhi
Hill earlier known as "Orr" Hill is one of the panoramic beauty
of Vijayawada. Erected in 1968 has a tribute to father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi
this hill has a Planetarium, library and birds eye view point of the city
with the sound and light show on Mahatma Gandhi's life.
Bahavani Island:
Located in the upstream of river Krishna close to Prakasam Barrage this Island
has a panoramic beauty and center of attraction for many tourists. The Tephostsavam
during Dassara Festival adds glory to this Island.
Gunadala Matha Shrine:
In 1925 Rf. Arlati PIME, the then Rector of St.Joseph's Orphanage at Gunadala
cut small pathway half way up the hill and placed a small statue of Our Lady
in "niche". Soon a pathway to the grotto was slowly cut out of the
hill. It was since then the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes became an annual
feast. A beautiful church was built and blessed in 1971 that was extended
in the recent years.
Kandapalli Fort:
A 7th century Fort with an impressive 3 storied rock towers on a Hill, the
Kondapalli Fort is located 16km away from Vijayawada. The Kondapalli Fort
which has witnessed the glory of many dynasties, used as a military training
base by the British rules. It is a picturesque and panoramic picnic spot.
Kondapally Toys:
No one can resist the charm of beautiful hand made toys of Kondapally. The
world famous toys made of a light wood called poniki have the characteristic
Indian mythological figures, birds, fruits, vegetables and houses.