THOTLAKONDA

Located on a hilltop, this is an almost 2000-year-old Buddhist complex that overlooks the sea. This complex finds its roots in the ancient Kalinga Empire that was majorly responsible for spreading Buddhism in Southeast Asia. It was a major site for Roman trade and missionary activities as seen from the excavations that led to the discovery of Roman-era silver coins, terracotta tiles, miniature stupa models, and scriptures in Brahmi script, etc.

This almost 120-acre site comprises a Mahastupa, 11 rock-cut water cisterns, a congregation hall, and chaitya-grihas. The site is now protected by the Andhra Pradesh government and houses sacred Buddhist relics that are a must-see. This is a great place, amongst one of the most intriguing places to visit in Visakhapatnam, especially for people who follow Buddhism and spirituality. Spending time in quietude enveloped by a cool breeze and sounds of the sea waters, and sharing the space of the thousand-year-old iconic heritage gives an amazingly surreal feeling.

Location: Bheemunipatnam, around 15 kilometres away from Visakhapatnam.

Timings: Every day from 10:00 am-5:00 pm.