Visakhapatnam District | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

History

• Visakhapatnam District is situated in the North Eastern Coastal region of Andhra Pradesh.
• It is positioned between 17º - 41' and 17º - 59' Northern latitude, and 83º - 12' and 83º - 27' Eastern longitude.
• The district shares borders with Vizianagaram District to the North, Anakapalli District to the South and West, and the Bay of Bengal to the East.

Historical Background and Etymology

• Inscriptions suggest that the region was initially part of the Kalinga Kingdom and later conquered by the Eastern Chalukyas in the 7th Century.
• Successive rulers, including the Reddy Rajahs of Kondaveedu, the Gajapathis of Orissa, the Nawabs of Golkonda, and the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, have governed the area.
• During a succession dispute among Andhra Kings, the territory came under French control before eventually falling under British rule.
• In 1936, following the formation of the Orissa State, certain taluks were transferred, leading to the reconstitution of the Visakhapatnam District.
• Administrative concerns led to the district's bifurcation in 1950, resulting in the creation of Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam districts.
• In 1979, further division occurred, with taluks being transferred to the newly established Vizianagaram District.

Etymology of Visakhapatnam

• Legend suggests that centuries ago, a King of the Andhra Dynasty, during a pilgrimage to Banaras, built a shrine in honor of the family deity Visakeswara in the present Visakhapatnam area.
• The name Visakhapatnam is believed to have originated from Visakheswarapuram, later evolving into Visakhapatnam, signifying the site's historical significance.
• Environmental factors, such as sea waves and currents, are said to have caused the shrine's relocation offshore over time.

Physical Features

• Visakhapatnam District is geographically divided into two main regions: the coastal strip and the interior plains division, which includes the Eastern Ghats.
• Due to the absence of major irrigation systems, the district exhibits significant agronomic variations across sub-regions.
• Coastal areas are characterized by salt and sandy swamps, with notable features like Dolphin's Nose, Rushikonda(v), and Narasimha Hill at Bheemunipatnam.
• The coastline's topography includes bald headlands that have facilitated the creation of natural harbors at strategic locations.

Administrative Structure

• The administrative setup of the district comprises 2 Revenue Divisions and 10 Mandals for effective governance and service delivery.

Visakhapatnam District Overview

• Location and Description: Visakhapatnam, known as "The Jewel of the East Coast," is a coastal port city situated in Andhra Pradesh on the eastern shore of India. Nestled among the hills of the Eastern Ghats and facing the Bay of Bengal, it serves as the administrative headquarters of Visakhapatnam District and hosts the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy.
• City Highlights: With an area of 550 km², Visakhapatnam is the largest city in Andhra Pradesh. It is primarily an industrial and port city, boasting the Eastern Naval Command among its key features.
• Historical Significance: Originally named after the god of Valor, Vishakha, the city has a rich history. It was a part of the Kalinga Kingdom under Ashoka's rule in 260 B.C. Subsequently, it came under the reign of Andhra Kings of Vengi, followed by the Pallava, Chola, and Ganga dynasties. In the 15th century, it became a part of the Vijayanagar Empire.
• Tourism and Attractions: Visakhapatnam is renowned as a top tourism destination in Andhra Pradesh, offering a diverse range of attractions. From scenic lakes and beautiful beaches to picturesque hill ranges, caves, and valleys, the district showcases the rich culture and heritage of India.

About Visakhapatnam Culture and Festivals

• Visakhapatnam, situated in the Andhra Pradesh state of India, is a significant industrial center along the coast and ranks as the state's second-largest city. Despite its economic progress, the city has retained its traditional character and cultural heritage. It boasts a rich cultural legacy, with numerous festivals held to showcase the district's cultural essence.
• These festivals in Visakhapatnam are marked by fervor, vibrancy, rituals, and feasts, contributing significantly to the city's cultural milieu. Additionally, the city hosts various fairs that exhibit its unique art and craft specialties. Cultural programs are another avenue through which the region's cultural diversity is highlighted. For instance, the local Dhimsa dance performed by hill tribes and their musical accompaniments like Dappu, Mori, and Thuduma exemplify this cultural richness. These communities take pride in donning traditional attire, further enhancing the cultural tapestry.

Different Festivals in Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam, known for its vibrant culture, celebrates a multitude of festivals throughout the year. However, the period between November and January is particularly festive, with several exciting events taking place in the city. The festive season kicks off with the Diwali Festival in the first half of November and culminates with the three-day harvest festival of Sankranthi in mid-January. During this time, the city comes alive with various cultural and religious celebrations.
Here are some of the most renowned festivals celebrated in Visakhapatnam:

Chandanotsavam

• Also known as the Chandana Yatra, this festival occurs annually at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple in Simhachalam, during March and April.
• Devotees witness the ceremonial removal of the layer of sandal paste covering the idol, revealing the original appearance of the deity.
• This festival symbolizes the renewal and rejuvenation of spiritual energy.

I. S. K. O. N. Utsav

• This grand festival, named after the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKON), is aimed at promoting Indian culture and raising awareness about ISKON's activities. Typically held during the Dassera holidays, the festival creates a fair-like atmosphere with numerous stalls showcasing spiritual articles, local products, and commercial items from participating companies. 
• Food stalls offering a variety of cuisines, along with amusement rides like the Giant Wheel and children's games, add to the festive vibe. Spanning three days, the festival features Bhajans (devotional songs) and Gita Path (recitation of the Bhagavad Gita). Reflecting the religious and cultural ethos of the region, ISKON Utsav includes various performances such as dance dramas depicting stories of Krishna and Ram, along with devotional, classical, and folk music and dance. 
• The highlight of Dassera Day is the burning of a 50-ft-high effigy of Ravana, the demon king, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. A portrayal of Lord Rama shoots a flaming arrow at the effigy before the enactment of the Ram leela.

Lumbini Festival

• An annual festival conducted by the regional government to honor Buddhism and the Buddhist sites in and around Visakhapatnam.
• Decorated Buddhist sites and special tours are organized for tourists and locals to explore the cultural heritage of Buddhism.
• Showcases Buddhist paintings, cultural activities, and provides a platform for local artists to exhibit their works.

Music Festival

• Celebrated for two days, the Visakhapatnam Music Festival features traditional music, food, and community activities.
• Highlights include performances of traditional music, culinary delights, and community engagement through activities like the Pythian Games.

Navy Day

• Celebrated by the Indian Navy at the Eastern Naval Command's Headquarters in Visakhapatnam with displays of naval artifacts, weapons, and a parade.
• Reflects the glory of the Indian Navy and honors the naval personnel with various events and exhibitions.
• Attracts crowds to witness the naval displays and participate in the celebrations along the Beach Road.

Visakha Utsav

• Organized annually by the Andhra Pradesh Government's Department of Tourism, this festival is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar. It ignites a sense of celebration not only among the residents of Visakhapatnam but also across the entire state. People from all corners of Andhra Pradesh converge at the festival venue in Visakhapatnam to participate in the festivities. 
• Held in January, specifically starting on the 3rd Friday of the month, Visakha Utsav spans three days, concluding on the subsequent Sunday. This vibrant festival serves as a platform to showcase the cultural heritage of the district, featuring a diverse range of cultural programs and activities. 
• A food fair, highlighting the city's culinary specialties, is a major draw for food enthusiasts. Additionally, the festival offers various sports events, fashion shows, and exhibitions, providing ample entertainment options for attendees. Celebrated with enthusiasm and grandeur, Visakha Utsav encapsulates the lively spirit of the region.

Tourism

Eco Tourism

Kambalakonda Eco Tourism Park

• Located alongside National Highway 5, just outside Visakhapatnam city on the way towards Vijayanagaram and Srikakulam, is the Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park. Situated opposite this park, across National Highway 5, is the renowned Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, popularly known as Vizag Zoo. Covering an area of 71 square kilometers, the Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park includes a sanctuary area of 0.8 square kilometers dedicated to a community-based eco-tourism project.
• Visitors can enter the park for a nominal fee of Rs. 10 for adults and Rs. 5 for children. Vehicles are permitted inside the park for a fee of Rs. 200, which includes entry for up to five members. Additionally, cottages are available for accommodation at Rs. 250 per day. The park operates from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Upon exploring the park, visitors will encounter spotted deer freely roaming the area. There is also a small water storage system where rainwater is collected, and boating facilities are available on the adjacent lake.
• For adventure enthusiasts, the park offers various trekking routes, with a group fee of Rs. 150 for up to 10 members, inclusive of a guide. Trekking typically begins at 6 AM and lasts approximately three hours. Advance notice is required at the reception to arrange for a local guide.
• During the winter season, many visitors from Visakhapatnam and nearby areas flock to the park for jungle walks and to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
• For inquiries and ticket bookings, visitors can contact the Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park ticket counter at 0891-6452143.

Religious Tourism

Religious tourism in Visakhapatnam district offers a spiritually enriching experience with its array of temples and places of worship. Here are some of the prominent pilgrimage destinations:

Simhachalam

• Situated in Visakhapatnam mandal, Simhachalam, meaning the "hill of lion," stands 244 meters above sea level. The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshminarasimha temple houses a man-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its rich sculptures. 
• The temple's architecture is remarkable, featuring a square shrine with a high tower, a portico adorned with a small tower, and a square sixteen-pillared mandapam. The temple premises include an enclosed veranda and an exquisite Natya mandapam supported by 96 intricately carved black stone pillars. 
• Simhachalam is not only a place of religious significance but also boasts enchanting scenic beauty. It is easily accessible, located approximately 16 kilometers from Visakhapatnam and well-connected by rail and road.

Appikonda

• Located on the Bay of Bengal coast, around 18 kilometers from Visakhapatnam, Appikonda is steeped in religious significance due to the presence of the Shiva temple housing a life-sized bull carved from black stone. The temple complex also includes smaller shrines, though they are partially covered by sand dunes. 
• Inscriptions dating back to the 12th century AD found in the temple precincts reveal its historical importance. The Shivaratri festival celebrated here attracts a large number of devotees seeking blessings.

Padmanatham

• Situated 16 kilometers northwest of Bheemunipatnam, Padmanatham lies on the left bank of the Gosthani River. It is known for the Padmanabheswara Swamy temple, which holds significance in local history. 
• The temple is dedicated to Lord Padmanabha Swamy, believed to fulfill the desires of devotees. The shrine atop the hill overlooking the area hosts the annual Kalyanostavam of the deity.