Vijayawada

Vijayawada is located about 275 km from Hyderabad, between the Krishna River and its tributary, Budaeru. This is the heart of Andhra Pradesh, historically a cultural, political and educational centre. The purest form of Telugu is spoken in Vijayawada, and political thinking within Andhra Pradesh originated and evolved here. Vijayawada lies in the rich coastal delta area of the state, a fact that is reflected in its spicy, deliciously varied cuisine. The most luscious mangoes, the king of fruits, are grown here and the region is renowned for its tradition of pickle making.

Legend has it that Arjuna, of the epic Mahabharata, prayed on top of Indrakila hill and won the blessings of Lord Shiva. The name of 'Vijayawada' is derived from the 'Vijaya'-victory.

A famous landmark in the Prakasam barrage, the 1223.5 long modern regulator and Road Bridge across the Krishna River, completed in 1957. Its panoramic lake and the three canals that run through the city give Vijayawada a Venetian appearance.

It is sometimes called Blaze-wada since it gets very hot in summer. Formerly known as Bezawada, this river city is the abode of popular Hindu Goddess Kanaka Durga. The goddess of power, riches and benevolence is considered the presiding deity of Vijayawada. The temple is set on Indrakiladri hill. A temple of Lord Maleswara is also within the city area. It is said that Adi Sankara visited this temple and installed Sri Chakra here. Special celebrations are held here during Dussehra festival.

The Gandhi Stupa, 15.8 high, stands on Gandhi Hill, which was formerly known as Orr Hill. The monument, built in memory of Mahatma Gandhi was unveiled in 1968. The Gandhi Memorial Library, sound and light show and planetarium are added attractions. From the top of the hill visitors get a panoramic view of Vijayawada.

The Mogalarajapuram caves are another site of interest. These have three cave temples, dating back to the 5th century AD, one of which is well preserved.

It contains the idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka and others. The Ardhanareeshwara Murthy found here is considered the only one of its kind in south India.

The other famous caves are the Undavalli caves situated about 8 k from Vijayawada which were carved in the 7th Century AD A huge onolithic Vishnu, in lying position is a agnificent sight at thest caves. The renowned temple of Lord Narasimha, one of the nine avatars of Vishnu, is located on the hillock at Mangalagiri, 12k south of Vijayawada. The unique feature of this temple, according to the devout, is the fact that the deity accepts only half the quantity of Panakam (jaggery dissolved in water) offered by devotees, irrespective of the quantity offered. Another site of religious significance in Vijayawada is Hazrat Bal Mosque. A holy relic of the Prophet Mohammed is kept here and displayed once a year.