Visakhapatnam, fondly known as Vizag, is a stunning coastal city nestled between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal. It's one of the most beautiful destinations on India’s east coast, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern development. Vizag is well connected to major Indian cities. It takes around 12 to 14 hours by train from Hyderabad and about 14 hours from Kolkata. For those preferring air travel, direct flights are available to Visakhapatnam International Airport from most metro cities.
Often referred to as the "Shipbuilding Capital of India," Vizag is home to major shipyards such as the Hindustan Shipyard and the Naval Dockyard. It also serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command, highlighting its strategic importance. The city’s natural harbour, the only one on India’s eastern coastline, adds to its maritime prominence. This coastal charm, along with its urban growth, has earned it the nicknames “City of Destiny” and “Jewel of the East Coast.”
The history of Visakhapatnam dates back to the 6th century BCE. The region has been ruled by several powerful dynasties including the Andhra Satavahanas, Vengi Chalukyas, Pallavas, and the Eastern Ganga dynasty. As an ancient port city, Vizag had active maritime trade with Rome and the Middle East. Historical references point to merchants from Vizagapatnam as early as the 11th century CE. By the 12th century, the city had developed into a fortified mercantile town. In the colonial era, the French and then the British East India Company took control of the region, with British rule continuing until India gained independence in 1947.
Modern-day Vizag is also a hub of education and research. It hosts some of India’s premier institutions such as Andhra University (AU), Andhra Medical College (AMC), Indian Institute of Management (IIM Visakhapatnam), Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE), Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University (DSNLU), Indian Maritime University (IMU), and a regional center of the National Institute of Oceanography. The city also serves as the zonal headquarters of the South Coast Railway Zone.
In recent years, Vizag has gained recognition for its cleanliness and urban planning. It was ranked the 9th cleanest city in India in the 2020 Swachh Survekshan survey (for cities with over 1 million population). It was also a finalist in the Living and Inclusion category at the World Smart City Awards 2020, underscoring its development and inclusive growth.
The region around Vizag has deep roots in Buddhism as well. Ancient texts and archaeological findings show that the area was once part of the Kalinga kingdom, which extended up to the Godavari River. Following the bloody Kalinga war, Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism and spread it throughout the region. Several Buddhist sites, such as Pavurallakonda, Sankaram, Bavikonda, and Thotlakonda, have been excavated around Vizag, showcasing its rich Buddhist heritage.
Tourism in Vizag thrives due to its scenic beaches, lush green hills, and historical monuments. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea, explore ancient ruins, or simply soak in the natural beauty, Vizag offers a unique travel experience that blends the old with the new.ing here...