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Kolleru Lake: For A Rejuvenating Experience


Soi Buakhao

Famed to be the largest freshwater lake in India, Kolleru Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vijayawada. Attracting migratory birds from across the world, nearly two lakh visitors visit the lake during peak season every year. From Glossy Ibises to Redshanks, and from Teals to Bill Storks, Kolleru lake is a wonderful place to spend the day for those who love being close to nature.

More About Vijayawada Tourism

Nestled on the banks of River Krishna in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada is the second-largest populated city in the state. Known as the ‘commercial, political and media capital of Andhra Pradesh’, the city is one of the most rapidly growing urban cities in India. Covered by hills and canals, Vijayawada is also home to numerous caves and rock-cut temples carved out of these caves.

Vijayawada is an amalgamation of the old world and the new; the air echoes with the clanking of temple bells mixed with the cacophony of traffic, the ancient monuments stand in perfect harmony with the modern architecture of the metro city. Among the most popular places to visit in Vijayawada are Bhavani Island, Victoria Museum, Hazratbal Mosque, Rajiv Gandhi Park, and Kolleru Lake etc., in addition to the host of temples and several caves. Other than this, the city is mostly a base to explore the nearby attractions like the Undavalli Caves, Kondapalli Fort, and Mangalagiri Hill etc. 

People Also Ask About Vijayawada
  • Q: How to Reach Vijayawada ?

    Ans:

    Vijayawada is well connected to the rest of India by rail, road, and air. Regular rail and bus services ply to and fro the city of Vijayawada; buses being operated both by private and government owners. Vijayawada airport, 13.5 km. away from the main city, is the principal airport that connects Vijayawada to the rest of India, as well as the world. Jet Airways, SpiceJet and Kingfisher Airlines connect the city with Hyderabad, Bangalore and Chennai. Also, it is situated along the Chennai-Howrah, and Chennai-Delhi rail route, and is thus easily accessible.

    How to reach Vijayawada by flight

    Vijayawada Airport, 15.5 km. away from the main city approximately, is the nearest airport that serves the city of Vijayawada via airways. Regular flights from air carriers like Air India, Spicejet etc. operate on a daily and nonstop basis for Vijayawada.

    Nearest Airport: Vijayawada Airport (VGA)

    How to reach Vijayawada by road

    Regular bus services ply to and fro the city of Vijayawada. They operate on a daily basis, whether day or night, from places like Nellore, Vishakhapatnam etc. You can also take shared taxis or cabs for the same route.

    How to reach Vijayawada by train

    Vijayawada is well connected to the rest of India via railways as well. Regular rail services operate on a daily basis to and fro Vijayawada. Vijayawada Junction is the principal railway station that serves the city of Vijayawada.

  • Q: Local transport in Vijayawada

    Ans:

    There are many options to commute within Vijayawada. These include auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws and buses. Both Ola and Uber cabs provide their services in the city.
    Local buses are easily available.

  • Q: What is the best time to visit Vijayawada ?

    Ans:

    Vijayawada is situated in Andhra Pradesh, and thus experiences a moderate climate, with mild winters. The best time for a visit to Vijayawada is in the winters, especially the months from October to March. The summers are unbearably hot, and the monsoons, although lovely and inviting, might dampen your plans if the rainfall is more than normal. Deccan festival lasting for five days in February and Lumbini festivals (December) are two attractive social gatherings here.

  • Q: Weather in Vijayawada ?

    Ans:

    Vijayawada in Summer (March - June)

    This is the least advisable time for a visit to this destination, with the temperatures going as high as 43? C. The days are unbearably hot and humid if you're visiting in the months of May & June.

    Vijayawada in Monsoon (July - September)

    Although the monsoon season receives moderate to heavy rainfall, this is not exactly the most advisable season for a visit, owing to torrential downpours.

    Vijayawada in Winter (October - February)

    1. from October, the winter season is the most advisable time for a visit to Vijayawada. The months from October - February is a nice time for a visit when the climate is pleasant and the ambiance lovely. This is also the peak season for travelers.

  • Q: Food of Vijayawada ?

    Ans:

    From the very popular Hyderabadi Biryani to authentic Andhra food to even multi-cuisine dishes, Vijayawada offers to its people and visitors hygienic and flattering food. Indulge in non-vegetarian delicacies with rich, and tangy Mughal flavors or order a vegetarian thali for all the best things of Andhra's cuisine in one platter.
    Do not miss local items like Laskora Undalu or Raskora Undalu (coconut laddu), Sunnundallu - Laddu made from with roasted Urad Dal (Minapappu) and Jaggery (Bellam), Nellore Chicken Biriyani, Pachadi - typically made of vegetables, greens and roasted green or red chilies, Pappu Koora (Lentil based dish) boiled vegetables stir-fried with a small amount of half-cooked lentils (dal) and more.

  • Q: Restaurants in Vijayawada ?

    Ans:

    1. Cross Roads

    Moghalrajapuram, No. 5 City Bus Route, Near Madhu gardens Bus Stop, Vijaywada, India

    North-Indian

    11 AM - 10.30 PM

    2. Sree Lakshmi Vilas Modern Cafe

    Katragaddavri Street, Besant Road, 2 Town, Governorpet, Vijaywada, Andhra Pradesh - 520002

    Cafe

    6:30 AM - 10:30 PM

    3. Minerva Coffee Shop

    Governor Pet, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

    Indian

    6:30 AM - 11 PM

    4. Lotus Food City

    D No. 13-801, Seethanagaram, Another end of Prakasam Barage, Tadepalli, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

    Indian

    12.30 PM - 11 PM

    5. TFL

    36-11-7/A, Santhi Nagar, 1st Lane, Moghalrajupuram, Labbipet, Vijayawada

    Italian, Continental, Chinese, Bakery, Beverages

    11am? 10:30pm (Mon-Sun)

    Set within a posh residence-turned-restro-cafe, TFL is a quirky eatery offering an engaging menu of Continental, Italian, Chinese and Indian dishes and confectionery.

    6. Avista

    Although a South Indian eatery, Avista is locally popular for its North Indian items! It has a collection of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

    7. Arya Bhavan

    Locally known for its creative list of multi-flavoured dosas, idlis and vadas, Arya Bhavan provides a clean and bright dining atmosphere. It serves an appetizing menu of South and North Indian dishes, desserts and beverages.

  • Q: Hotels in Vijayawada ?

    Ans:

    1. FabHotel Keerthi's Anupama Governor Peta

    2.1 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Parking, Wifi

    FabHotel Keerthi's Anupama Governor Peta is situated in Vijayaw?da and features a terrace. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi through (Read More)

    Book without credit card

    Hotel with 4 room options

    ? 1,913 onwards

    2. Novotel Vijayawada Varun

    1.9 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Parking, Wifi, Bar, Pool, Food

    Novotel Vijayawada Varun has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and bar in Vijayaw?da. This 5-star hotel offers a shared lounge, a concierge service and free WiFi.

    5-star hotel with 8 room options

    ? 6,490 onwards

    3. PARK IRIS HOTELS, Governerpet

    2.6 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Parking, WIFI, Bar, Food

    Boasting a shared lounge, PARK IRIS HOTELS, Governerpet is situated in Vijayaw?da. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and free WiFi. The hotel has newspapers and a fax machine (Read More)

    4. The Gateway Hotel M G Road

    1.9 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Bar, WIFI, Pool , Food

    Located in the financial capital of Andhra Pradesh, The Gateway Hotel M G Road offers a rooftop swimming pool and modern rooms with a flat-screen TV. Providing 24-hour room service, it also has 4 dins (Read More)

    5-star hotel with 6 room options

    5. Treebo Trend C Plaza

    0.8 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Bar, WIFI , Food

    Treebo Trend C Plaza offers accommodation in Vijayaw?da. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. All guest rooms (Read More)

    Book without credit card

    Hotel with 2 room options

    ? 2,689 onwards

    6. Hotel Aira

    1.1 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Parking , Wifi , Bar , Food

    Set in Vijayaw?da, Hotel Aira provides a shared lounge. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property.

    Hotel with 4 room options

    ? 2,949 onwards

    7. Treebo Trend N Square 

    2.4 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Parking , Bar , Wifi , Food

    Situated in Vijayaw?da, Treebo Trend N Square features a bar. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi. Private parking can b (Read More)

    Book without credit card

    Hotel with 3 room options

    ? 1,974 onwards

    8. FabHotel RR Grand MG Road 

    0.8 kms from city centre

    Facilites: Parking, Wifi, Bar, Food

    FabHotel RR Grand MG Road features air-conditioned accommodation in Mohammadnagar. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the (Read More)

    Book without credit card

    Hotel with 4 room options

    ? 2,691 onwards

  • Q: Things To Do in Vijayawada ?

    Ans:

    Here is the list of top things to do in this historic hilly city of Vijayawada:

    1. Explore the Intricate Undavalli Caves

    City of Vijaywada is surrounded by hills and these are incredibly rich in architecture and stunning rock cut structures. Undavalli caves is one of the most mind blowing such rock structures here.

    These angelic caves are spread over four floors and are full of mystery. The structures are said to be built in 7th or 8th century AD. These awe-inspiring arts were inspired by Bhudist crafts. Lot of Hindu deities and murals related to Hinduism can also be found here.

    2. Boat Riding at Bhavani Island

    The popular Bhavani Island is a beautiful river island. Located in Vijayawada Bhavani Island are formed around the River Krishna. Bhavani Island is a popular picnic destination – made famous by the ravishing water adventures and boat rides this place offers. One can also relax and laze around on the water shores, watch the adorable birds and enjoy observing boats pass by. Being at Bhavani Island is an ambrosial lively experience – one that shouldn’t be missed.

    3. Expedition at Kondapalli Fort

    Kondapalli Fort is an imposing unique marvel of architecture. This peerless historic architectural beauty has been a major attraction of Vijayawada. There are many stunning unique qualities of this fort. The main entrance gateway of this fort is said to be have been built by carving it out from one single boulder of granite. This gateway is popularly known as Dargah Darwaza.

    There is also a seraphic small reservoir, entrancing Tanisha Mahal, ambrosial Dargah of Gareeb Sahib, the awe-inspiring Golconda Darwaja and many more peerless historic architectural builds that should be explored. One can also buy a lot of souvenirs and Kondapalli Fort toys – handcrafted by the villagers around the fort and sold here.

    4. Shop at Besant Road

    Besant Road is the busiest yet extremely colourful market in the city. One of the most popular markets here – one can buy local craft and textiles from this market. Besant road is also famous for its exquisite eateries and restaurants. The market is full of life and zest throughout the day. This place is also a paradise for cinema and theater lovers. This incredible place has got unparalleled number of cinema halls – more than 50 according to local guides here. This is a popular entertainment and activity center here – and you will love the colours of Vijayawada being on full display here.

    5. Delve into History at Bapu Museum

    The Bapu Museum was formerly known as Victoria Jubilee Museum of Vijayawada. The museum is extremely rich in its collection. One must visit to experience the awe-inspiring historical artefacts, angelic idols, ancient sculptures, ravishing historic paintings, inscriptions, weapons and fabulous ancient cutlery. The collection here will simply take your breath away and you will like it, especially if you are a history buff. Situated at MG Road – the museum has a grandiose statue of Buddha which is said to be as ancient as the 4th century. There are some other very interesting and incredibly historic artifacts which you will fall in love with. A must visit place if you are in this historic city.

    6. Enlighten Yourself Spiritually at Kanaka Durga Temple

    Kanaka Durga Temple is the top most attraction of this city. One of the most popular pilgrimage sites – the temple is located at the top of Indrakeeladri hills. These stunning hills are located on the banks of River Krishna. This Goddess Durga temple is one of its kind and sees thousands of devotees visit this place every month. The temple has its very rich cultural history and heritage. This thousands of years old temple has got smashing architectural beauty and significance among people here.

    7. Learn the Mystery of Mogalarajapuram Caves

    Mogalarajapuram Cavesare said to be extremely mysterious and ravishing place to be at to enjoy the adventures. There are few temples that can be found in these caves. One of the temples is believed to be as old as 5th century – and is the top destination here among the devotees.

    The temples are also popular for their ancient yet awe inspiring carvings, especially that of lord Ardhanariswara – one of its kind in this part of the country.

    Address: Mogalarajapuram Caves, Vijayawada

    8. Marvel at Prakasam Barrage

    Prakasam Barrage is popular attraction and an incredible barrage built across the river Krishna here in the city of Vijayawada. This awe-inspiring architectural piece is a breathtaking marvel and a stunning tourist attraction. It is said to be the largest such barrage in whole Asia. The barrage was first built in the year 1855 and was further enhanced post-independence in 1957. A stroll across the barrage, over wondrous lake is a blissful experience.

    9. Enjoy the City View from Gandhi Hill Top

    Gandhi hill is a popular tourist destination and a hillside situated near the main railway station at Vijayawada. The spot is extremely popular due to its scenic serene gardens at the hilltop and a wonderful memorial of father of the nation – Mahatma Gandhi. One of the best things about the hilltop is the incredible views it offers from the top. The place offers magnificent views and the whole city skyline of Vijaywada can be seen from this place. There is also a toy train which takes you across the place here. One of the most popular picnic spots – this is a place where you will love to spend some time in serenity and calmness of the garden at an incredibly picturesque location on the top of a hill. Gandhi Hills were earlier popularly known as ORR hills.
    There is a small ticket of INR 10 /- per person at this place. And if you are looking to ride the toy train ticket for it is of INR 20 /- per person. The timings are from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM (Tuesday closed)

    10. Explore the Horticulture at Riverside Rajiv Gandhi Park

    Rajiv Gandhi Park is a dazzling park situated on the banks of River Krishna. The Park is full of exquisite animals and flora. What makes it stand apart – are the beautiful replicas of historic and rare creatures – which are standing tall and look very lively. You can find glorious replicas of dinosaurs and various exotic birds. Set in picturesque setting this is an entrancing soothing park. Visit here to click some photos with life size replicas of rare animals and to be one with nature.

  • Q: Is Vijaywada safe ?

    Ans:

    Vijaywada is generally quite safe for tourists. But lately the crime rate has been increasing in the city. Females must avoid travelling alone at night.

  • Q: What is Vijayawada famous for ?

    Ans:

    Vijaywada is the second largest city of Andhra Pradesh. It is famous for its incredible beauty, rich historic heritage and the popular temples.