A small fishing village a few decades ago, Vizag, today has burgeoned into a bustling Port, a huge dry dock, a thriving industrial town and the main centre for a flourishing ship building industry. But this booming city, often referred to as the ‘city of destiny’ isn’t famous as an Industrial hub alone. Its immensely serene sun-kissed beaches lined with unique museums and places of serious historical and religious relevance make this stunning jewel on the Coramandel Coast a very attractive tourist destination for a relaxing Indian beach vacation.
Rama Krishna Beach
It’s best to start your beach vacation in Vizag with Rama Krishna Beach. Also known as R.K. Beach, it is located at the east coast with the largest stretch of seafront. The best thing to do here is to play cricket or beach volleyball, walk around or just sit on the bench and witness the very dramatic sunset.
While at R K Beach, do visit the famous Kali Temple. A temple dedicated to goddess Kali, it is beautifully illuminated every evening and is thronged by many a devotees. Another major attraction here is the Submarine Museum, the first of its kind in South Asia.
From a short distance on the R.K. Beach Road, attracting almost everyone towards it are the protruding menacing jaws of a large blue white-tipped concrete shark. This is Matsyadarshini, Vizag’s one and only aquarium. This beautiful aquarium with over 20 tanks displaying fresh water and marine fish and water animal species is setup and run by Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation. Open on all days from 9 am to 7 pm, Matsyadarshini charges a nominal entry fee of Rs. 10 for children and Rs. 20 for adults. While there, do check out 'Kala Shrusti' – an exquisite Indian handicraft shop located on top of the building.
Rushikonda Beach
Though, Rama Krishna beach is the most popular, Rushikonda Beach is highly recommended as well, for its undiscovered and serene charm. 11 km away from the city, cradled among hills, this beachis a lot safer to wade into than the R.K. Beach and is usually not so crowded. You can also consider staying at AP Tourism Development Corporation’s Beach Resort (Punnami) located here on the hillside overlooking the beach.
Bheemli Beach
Bheemlipatnam or Bheemli as it is known popularly is a small sleepy village that oozes old-world charm owing to its Dutch settlement remains. About 25 km from the city, the beach at Bheemli is untouched, lined with palm groves, brimming with greenery and renowned as the safest location for swimmersIt has an unusual appeal and is best for those who long for beauty with a touch of solitude. In fact, the drive from Vizag to Bheemli along the beach road itself is a stimulating treat. Apart from the beach, the village has the oldest Dutch cemetery dating back to the 17th century, a clock tower and a church that are worth a visit.
A trip to Vizag is incomplete without experiencing the unusual magic of each of these beautiful beaches. So, remember to keep at least one evening for each, while planning your itinerary. Keep the climate in mind too before you block your dates. Vizag can get really hot during the summer months and stays quite humid even during the September and October months. Hence, planning a trip around December January to Vizag would be most apt.
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