Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Visakhapatnam

Visitors who are hungry for a taste of Indian history need look no further than Visakhapatnam, often known as ‘Vizag’, one of the largest metropolitan areas in India and one of the country’s oldest port cities turned tourist hotspot.

Located on the eastern coast of India, this bustling city offers an enticing blend of scenic landscapes, ancient history, and rich cultural heritage. As well as housing India’s oldest shipyard, this South Indian destination is famed for its scenic beaches, clear blue waters, and lush green hills.

With a mix of relaxed beachside retreats and fascinating historic sites, Vizag offers a unique experience that attracts tourists from all over the world.

It’s impossible to talk about the best places to visit in Visakhapatnam without diving into the many astounding beaches in Visakhapatnam. Famed for their white sands and crystal blue seas, Vizag beaches are iconically clean and tend to be crowd-free. Any Vizag beach is guaranteed to impress, but a few of the best ones to consider during your stay include:

Ramakrishna Beach, also known as RK Beach, is located on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal, just 18 km from Visakhapatnam International Airport. The beach gains its name from the nearby Ramakrishna Mission ashram and is within close proximity to other religious icons like Kali Temple. Though swimming is prohibited due to sea pollution, this picturesque beach remains a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike, offering beautiful ocean views and a bustling atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the pedestrian promenade or take a trip to nearby MatsyaDarshini Aquarium, home to aquatic wonders like Electric Rays and Sea Anemones.

Location: RK Beach, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Visitors keen to dive right into the sea should look no further than Rushikonda Beach. Known for its clear blue waters, this beach is a favourite for water sports like surfing, scuba diving, and banana boats. Surrounded by lush palm forests and rocky outcrops, Rushikonda Beach is the ideal destination for adventurers and thrill-seekers. The nearby Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach hotel is a fantastic place to stay if you plan on spending your days here.

Location: Rushikonda, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

If relaxation is more your style, Lawson’s Bay Beach, also known as Pedawaltair Beach, offers sprawling golden sands and one of the best views of the Bay of Bengal. Only 8-9 km from Vizag city centre, it remains one of the best-hidden gems for swimming, sunbathing, and long beach walks. With its quieter atmosphere and pristine sands, Lawson’s Bay is perfect for unwinding away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Location: Pedda Waltair, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Yarada Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Vizag, is flanked by lush greenery and banana and coconut plantations. Its untouched natural beauty and scenic views of the Arabian Sea make it a peaceful retreat, far from the crowds. Close to Dolphin’s Nose, this beach offers stunning views. Enjoy your own slice of paradise with walks along the shoreline or a picnic in solitude while admiring the crystal-clear waters.

Location: Yarada, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

As one of India’s oldest port cities, Visakhapatnam has a rich history. Exploring Vizag’s historic sites offers a glimpse into its storied past, from ancient maritime activities to significant colonial landmarks.

The VMRDA INS Kurusura Submarine Museum is the first of its kind in South Asia and is housed in a real Soviet-built I-641 class submarine. Having served in the Indian Navy for 31 years, this submarine is now a museum displaying artefacts, photographs, and more, chronicling the evolution of submarines. A tour of the museum offers a rare opportunity to explore life inside a submarine and gain insights into India’s naval history.

Location: RK Beach, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Kailasagiri Park, spanning 100 acres of Vizag hilltops, is home to 40-foot-tall statues of Shiva and Parvathi. The park offers panoramic views of the city, accessible via road or a cable car system, making it a must-visit attraction in Visakhapatnam. Visitors can explore beautifully landscaped gardens, walk along scenic trails, and take in breathtaking city and ocean views from this elevated vantage point.

Location: Kailasagiri, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 

The Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, perched on Kailasa hilltop, dates back to the 11th century and is known for its stunning iconography of Lord Vishnu. The temple is a significant cultural landmark in Vizag, drawing many visitors, especially during the Chandanotsavam Festival. With its intricate sculptures and rich heritage, this temple is both a spiritual and cultural highlight of the region.

Location: Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is one of India’s largest zoos, stretching across 625 acres and housing 87 species, including Bengal tigers and Indian elephants. The park’s naturalistic enclosures provide a great experience for visitors of all ages, and its dedication to conservation adds an educational element to the visit. With its emphasis on natural enclosures and conservation education, this is a great spot for animal lovers.

Location: Kambalakonda, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Located 114 km from Visakhapatnam, Araku Valley is a stunning hill station known for its coffee plantations and waterfalls. The lush greenery and cool climate make it a popular escape from the city’s warmth. The nearby Borra Caves, among the largest in India, offer fascinating insights into the region's geological and tribal history. These limestone caves, with stalactites and stalagmites, provide a unique underground experience enhanced by stories of ancient tribes that once inhabited the area.

Location: Borra, Araku Valley, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 

As one of Vizag’s busiest spots, Jagadamba Junction is home to Jagadamba Centre, a shopping hub where visitors can buy authentic handicrafts and fashionable sarees. Here, visitors can also indulge in local street food, with popular vendors offering regional delicacies at Dastreet’s multi-cuisine stalls.

Location: Jagadamba Junction, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

CMR Central Mall in Maddilapalem is the largest mall in Vizag, featuring five floors of shopping opportunities, including popular brands like Max and B’Ethnic, and familiar food chains like McDonald’s and Pizza Hut. The mall’s vibrant atmosphere, complete with cinema and games, offers a blend of local culture and modern convenience for visitors of all ages.

Location: Maddilapalem, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh