Tourist Places: Vizianagaram District | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

Vizianagaram Fort

• Vijayarama Raju-I initiated the construction of Vizianagaram fort in 1713 A.D. during the Vijaya Dashami festival. Originally, the Victory arch served as the primary entrance to the fort before the Nagaar Khana was built. 
• Positioned on one side of the arch is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, while on the other side stands a shrine of Goddess Lakshmi, also known as 'Kota Shakti,' symbolizing the fort's protection. Before commencing any military campaign, the Raja of Vizianagaram would seek blessings from the Goddess. 
• The primary entry point to the fort is through the East Gate, where the Nagaar Khana, a room for the Indian percussion instrument called 'Nagaara,' is situated atop. This room was utilized for making announcements of royal decrees and signaling the arrival of distinguished guests. 
• The West Gate, designed in the Rajasthani style, serves as the rear entrance to the fort and features a viewing pavilion on its roof. It links the fort to the Pedda Cheruvu and the royal tombs. Following Hindu customs, the West Gate, located near the royal tombs, was traditionally used for funeral processions. 
• Surrounding the fort is a moat, and the area between the west wall and the moat has been transformed into a beautiful park with meticulously manicured gardens and verdant lawns under the administration's care.

Ganta Stanbham (Clock Tower)

• During the period of British rule in India, the Kings of Vizianagaram were inspired by their visits to London and decided to create a replica of the Big Ben in their town.
• The Ghanta Stambham (Clock Tower) was originally constructed with a sandstone finish and a white top, but it has since been painted in cream and red colors.
• This 68 feet tall octagonal structure was built in 1885 at a surprisingly low cost of only Rs.5,400 and is situated near the fort, at the heart of the city.

Moti Mahal

• The Moti Mahal was built in 1869 by Vijayarama Raju-III as the royal court for the Maharaja. It symbolizes a glorious era where a majestic king, surrounded by opulently dressed courtiers, administered the kingdom with collective wisdom and benevolence.
• Adorning the main entrance are two exquisite marble statues that reflect the refined taste and abundance of the residents.
• Located at the Vizianagaram fort, the Moti Mahal stands out as the primary and most noteworthy structure. Dr. P.V.G Raju generously donated it to the MANSAS Trust.
• Today, the Moti Mahal is dedicated to education, hosting a women's college on its first floor. The historical connection is preserved through a museum on the ground level displaying various artifacts.

Oudh Khana

• Oudh Khana provides insight into the lavish lifestyle of Vizianagaram's royalty. This octagonal stone edifice, situated near the Phool Bagh Palace, was specifically constructed for the Maharajah's bathing rituals.
• Standing at a towering height of 50 feet, this structure features spiral stairs leading to a water tank atop, supplied by water from a nearby well.

Alakananda Palace

• The Alakananda Palace, constructed in 1857, was designed to accommodate royal guests in opulent luxury.
• This lavish palace offered every comfort amidst natural and man-made beauty.
• The surrounding area boasts well-planned walkways and gardens for leisurely strolls.
• An airstrip within the palace grounds allowed royal visitors to land directly at the palace premises.
• Currently, the Alakananda Palace serves as the headquarters for the 5th Battalion of the Andhra Pradesh Armed Reserve Police.

Korukonda Palace

• Located slightly further from the Alakananda Palace, the Korukonda Palace stands proudly amidst expansive playgrounds and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Spread across 1,000 acres of land, the Palace has been transformed into a leading educational institution by the Indian Navy.
• The Indian Navy operates a school within the premises, catering to young individuals with aspirations to join the armed forces.

Bobbili Fort

• The Bobbili Fort was founded by Pedda Rayudu, the 15th descendant of the Rajas of Venkatagiri, who arrived in the area as part of Golconda Fauzdar Sher Mohammad Khan's contingent.
• Initially named Pedda Puli (Great Tiger) after his patron, the fort was later known as Pebbuli, Bebbuli, and finally Bobbili due to linguistic changes over time.
• The town faced near destruction during the conflict with Vizianagaram, culminating in a tragic massacre.
• While the original Bobbili Fort is no longer intact, several palaces in the area now serve as residences for the royal family.
• The Durbar Mahal, constructed in 1893, functioned as a court where the Raja conducted official business and received dignitaries. Stone elephants flank the entrance steps to the Durbar.
• Presently, the museum on the first floor houses various artifacts from Bobbili's past, while the lower floor is utilized as an office space.

Raj Mahal

• The Bobbili Rajas constructed several palaces to host their guests.
• Raj Mahal, also known as the Chikkavaram Guest House, is a prominent palace built in 1888 by Maharaja Venkata Swetha Chalapati Ranga Rao.
• Located on the outskirts of the modern town, visitors need to traverse a long driveway to access the palace.

Maharajas Institutions

• Music College: Established in 1919 with the aim of promoting Classical music. Subjects taught included Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mrudangam, Nadaswaram, and Harikatha.
• Notable Alumni: Students from various states, including Tamil Nadu and Kerala, joined the college. Personalities like Sri Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao, Saluru Rajeswara Rao, and Smt. P. Susheela emerged as renowned singers through their training here.

Maharajas Degree College (Autonomous)

• Historical Background: Founded in 1857, it was the second Degree College in the Composite Madras State, initially starting as a middle school.
• Transformation: Upgraded to a college in 1871 by Vijayarama Raju-III.
• Milestone: Celebrated its centenary in 1971, with the centenary event inaugurated by the President of India, V.V. Giri.

Maharajas Sanskrit College

• Scholarly Pursuits: A significant institution for oriental learning, focusing on the study of Vedas and their interpretations.
• Foundation: Established by Vijayarama Raju-III, who had a deep interest in Sanskrit studies.
• Evolution: Originating as a Sanskrit School in Vizianagaram in 1860, it later evolved into a college in 1900.

Gurajada Apparao House in Vizianagaram Town

• Gurajada Apparao, a renowned writer from Vizianagaram, lived in a house located in Vizianagaram town near Vizianagaram Fort. 
• He is a respected and eminent personality in the region.

Bobbili Veena

• The town of Bobbili is well-known for crafting Veenas, musical instruments, by skilled artisans located in Gollapalli village near the town.
• Approximately 300 households in the village have been engaged in making Veenas for their livelihood for the past century.
• The Veenas are meticulously crafted using a single piece of Panasa and Sampangi wood by the artisans.
• Notably, there is a prominent Venugopala Swamy temple situated in the heart of the town.

Thatipudi Reservoir

• Located in Gantyada Mandal, the Thatipudi dam was constructed during the period 1963-1968.
• Situated in the Vijayanagaram District, the dam spans across the Gosthani River and can hold up to 3.175 TMC of water.
• Gosthani Sarovar Vihar offers delightful boat trips, costing 600 INR for an hour.
• If you are willing to wait for a group of twelve, the cost reduces to 50 INR per person.
• Visitors can contact the vihar contractor for special boat arrangements at the provided contact numbers.
• A boat trip takes you to the Giri Vinayaka statue atop the mountain, providing a mesmerizing view of the surroundings.
• A limited number of cottages are available for accommodation, with A/C rooms priced at 1000 INR and non-A/C rooms at 600 INR.
• Basic amenities are provided in the rooms, but carrying mosquito repellent and bed sheets is advisable for a comfortable stay.
• The serene environment of the reservoir attracts local fishermen seeking their livelihood amidst tranquility.