Tourism in N.T.R District | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

Cultural Tourism

• Kondapalli is renowned for its wooden toys, which are named after the place. The historic Kondapalli fort holds significance for both history enthusiasts and tourists. Constructed during the years 1362-1377 A.D. by Ana-Vema Reddy, it was later captured by Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire. The distinct Kondapalli toys are celebrated for their lightweight nature, vivid hues, and traditional crafting methods.
• These toys are themed around mythology, rural life, and animals, showcasing cheerful and lifelike expressions. The artwork reflects a notable influence of Islamic design, noticeable in the pointed noses of the figurines reminiscent of the 17th-century Rajasthani style. Crafted by artisans known as 'Aryakshatriyas,' these craftsmen are believed to have migrated from Rajasthan to Kondapalli around the 16th century, bringing along the unique craft of toy-making.
• Spanning over 400 years, this tradition has been handed down through the generations, with each family member actively participating in the craft in the 'Toy Colony' of Kondapalli.

Mahasivarathri

• Vijayawada, known as Vijayawavatika in mythology, is a significant place of pilgrimage located on the banks of the river Krishna.
• Thousands of people gather at Vijayawada, particularly on Mahasivarathri, for a sacred dip in the river Krishna.
• Once every 12 years, the Krishna Pushkaram festival is celebrated, drawing devotees from all over India to pay homage to the sacred Krishnaveni.
• Arjuna acquired the powerful weapon "Pasupathastra" after performing penance on the "Indrakeela" hill.
• The presiding deity in the town is Kanaka Durga, and the Durga temple located on the hill attracts pilgrims throughout the year from distant places.
• From the hilltop, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, which is especially captivating at night.

Eco-Tourism

Mogalrajapuram Caves

• Location: Mogalrajapuram Caves are situated 5 kilometers east of the city.
• Historical Significance: The caves contain five rock-cut sanctuaries dating back to the 5th century AD, with one sanctuary well-preserved.
• Ardhanarisvara Statue: The Mogalrajapuram temple houses a unique 'Ardhanarisvara' statue, considered one of the earliest in South India.
• Architectural Features: One cave stands out with an overhanging cornice and artificial windows.
• Idols of Deities: The caves feature idols of Lord Nataraja and Vinayaka, with the latter in better condition than other deity images.
• Archaeological Importance: Mogalrajapuram Caves hold significant archaeological value, providing insights into the region's history.

Bhavani Island 

• Bhavani Island spans across 130 acres and is located in the middle of the river Krishna.
• Accessing the island via a boat ride offers a delightful experience.
• It serves as an excellent spot for picnics and various special events.
• Under the management of APTDC, the island permits arrangements for meetings and weddings with prior authorization.
• Bhavani Island is a distinctive aquatic retreat characterized by serene waters and shaded groves.
• Visitors can enjoy a budget-friendly day trip with their loved ones amidst mangroves, well-kept gardens, woodlands, and shimmering water features.
• The island's landscape, comprising lush meadows and winding water bodies, offers a perfect setting for leisure and entertainment.

Kondapalli Fort

• Kondapalli Fort is a rock tower consisting of three storeys.
• The fort features three entrances, with the main entrance known as Dargah Darwazah, crafted from a single block of granite.
• Another entrance gate, Golconda Darwazah, is situated at the opposite end of the hill, leading to Jaggaiahpet village.
• Located on a crest between two hills, the Tanish Mahal or Palace is the key highlight of Kondapalli Fort.
• Within close proximity to the palace lies a deep reservoir known for its extremely cold water.
• Various ruined structures can be observed within the fort premises.
• The surrounding Kondapalli village is renowned for its Kondapalli toys made of light wood, available on the hill.

Gandhi Hills

• Gandhi Hill is the initial Gandhi memorial in India situated on a hillock in Vijayawada.
• It stands at an elevation of 500 ft and features seven stupas built to honor the Father of the Nation.
• The prominent 52 ft tall Gandhi stupa, unveiled by Dr. Zakir Hussain, the former President of India on October 6, 1968, is a key highlight.
• The Gandhi Memorial Library houses a substantial collection of books for visitors.
• A Sound and Light show is available, illustrating the life of Mahatma Gandhi for guests.
• A planetarium is also present as an additional attraction at the site.
• A popular activity for children is the toy train ride that circles the hill.
• Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Vijayawada city from Gandhi Hill.

Victoria Jubilee Museum

• The Bapu Museum, previously known as the Victoria Jubilee Museum, is situated on M. G. Road in Vijayawada.
• It was renamed in honor of the celebrated film director, illustrator, cartoonist, and author Bapu.
• The museum, under the supervision of the Archaeological department, houses a vast collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts, predominantly of Buddhist and Hindu origins.
• Some of the artifacts in the museum date back to as early as the 2nd and 3rd centuries.
• The architectural style of the building is a blend of Indo-European influences and is over a century old.
• The museum boasts an extensive array of sculptures representing both Buddhist and Hindu cultures.
• It houses a diverse collection of paintings that offer insights into the artistic traditions of the region.
• Artifacts displayed in the museum provide a glimpse into the rich history of the area, with some items dating back over a thousand years.
• The building's architectural style reflects a fusion of Indian and European design elements.
• Its historical significance lies in being a well-preserved structure that has stood the test of time for more than a century.

Religious Tourism

Kanaka Durga Temple, Vijayawada

• Kanakadurgamma Temple is located on the banks of the river Krishna, specifically on Indrakeeladri in Vijayawada.
• Sri Kanakadurgamma is believed to be self-manifested (swayambu). The temple is renowned as one of the largest in India and the 2nd largest in Andhra Pradesh.
• The architectural style of the temple follows the Dravidian tradition.
• During the Krithayuga era, Goddess Durga defeated Mahishasura, a formidable threat to the world. She then appeared on the Keela mountain with eight arms in the form of Mahishasura Mardini, fulfilling her promise to the mountain.
• Goddess Durga's radiance on the mountain was described to be as bright as millions of suns, emitting a golden hue. Indra and other deities acknowledged her presence by chanting "Kanaka Durga" and offering daily worship.
• Adjacent to Durga Devi, there is a representation of Sri Chakaram and a Ganapati Deity, signifying that all worship is directed towards Sri Chakaram during rituals for the Goddess.
• Kanaka Durgamma is depicted with eight arms, each holding significant weapons like Chakra, Conch, Bow and Arrow, Sword, Spear, Club, Trident, Thunderbolt, and Lotus.
• The festival of Dasara is celebrated grandly at the temple, attracting a large number of devotees who participate in the festivities. A notable highlight is the ritualistic holy dip in the river Krishna, located 2 kilometers from the RTC Bus stand.

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Vedadri

• Location: Vedadri houses the Yoga Nanda Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple along with Siva temples. This temple is a prominent site among the Pancha Narasimhar Kshetrams in Andhra Pradesh. Positioned just 10 kilometers away from 'chillakallu' on National Highway No.9, which connects Vijayawada and Hyderabad.
• Architecture: The temple's structure is traditional, adorned with bright colors and embellished with various images. An exquisite image of Narasimha Swami in a yoga pose is situated outside the temple premises. The Utsava Idols, used during festivals, are remarkably tall and impressive. The temple boasts a splendid Raja Gopuram adorned with carved images of deities. The lower part of the Dwajasthambam is visible within the mandapam.

St. Mary's Church, Gunadala

• The Gunadala Mary Matha Church is a renowned pilgrimage site for Christians in Andhra Pradesh, located in the hilly region of Gunadala in Vijayawada.
• Also known as St. Mary's Church, this sacred place sits atop a rocky hill on the eastern side of Vijayawada City.
• Every February, a grand festival takes place attracting a diverse crowd of followers and visitors from various faiths.
• An iron cross adorns the hilltop of the church, adding to its distinctive character.
• The church boasts a museum exhibiting ancient holy relics and valuable gifts donated by devotees.
• On Sundays and during significant festivals, the church bustles with worshippers, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
• The annual feast dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes is a major event marked by grandeur and enthusiasm.
• During the Gunadala Matha Festival from February 9 to 11, the shrine welcomes over 500,000 visitors from across India.
• Access to the church is solely via a flight of steps, adding a sense of pilgrimage and reverence to the journey.

Engineering Tourism

Prakasam Barrage

• The Prakasam Barrage, situated across River Krishna near Vijayawada City in Andhra Pradesh, replaced an older structure known as Anicut. Constructed between 1954 and 1957, this barrage was a crucial development for irrigation and flood protection in the region. The earlier Anicut, designed by Sir Arthur Cotton and built by Captain Charles Orr in 1852, served over 5.80 lakh acres across four districts.
• During an inspection in 1952, the old Anicut was breached, resulting in the tragic loss of lives including the eminent Superintending Engineer, Sri. Vepa Krishna Murthy. As a response, the present Prakasam Barrage was built at a cost of Rs. 2.278 crores. This new structure was named after the esteemed former Chief Minister, Sri. Prakasam Panthulu.