3 Days in Vijayawada for a Relaxed Trip

Vijayawada is one of those places that surprises you with its mix of riverside charm, spiritual vibes, and delicious food. I spent a few lazy days here last winter, soaking in the views from Prakasam Barrage, eating spicy Andhra meals, and exploring the peaceful Undavalli Caves. It's the kind of city where you can take things slow without missing out on the good stuff.

Andhra Pradesh, andhra-pradesh
3 Days
Relaxed
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Watching sunset over the Krishna River from Prakasam Barrage
Tasting authentic Andhra thali at a local eatery
Exploring the ancient rock-cut Undavalli Caves
Taking a short boat ride to Bhavani Island for some quiet time

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Vijayawada

A relaxed introduction to Vijayawada, covering its most iconic landmarks and flavors.

Activities

Visit Kanaka Durga Temple
Visit Kanaka Durga Temple

Start your day with blessings at this hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The panoramic views of the Krishna River and city from here are stunning. Mornings are peaceful with fewer crowds, and the temple's architecture is a mix of Dravidian and South Indian styles. Don't miss the special 'archana' rituals if you're visiting on a Friday.

Indrakeeladri Hill, Vijayawada7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best time to avoid heat and crowds)Free (donations accepted)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered)
  • Try the temple's famous laddu prasadam
Stroll along Prakasam Barrage
Stroll along Prakasam Barrage

Walk across this 1.2 km long barrage built over the Krishna River, a local favorite spot for breezy mornings. Watch fishermen at work and spot migratory birds if you're visiting between November-February. The view of the river with the temple in the background makes for great photos.

Prakasam Barrage Road, Vijayawada9:30 AM - 10:30 AM (before it gets too sunny)Free
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Carry water as there's limited shade
Explore Bhavani Island
Explore Bhavani Island

Take a short ferry ride to this peaceful island in the Krishna River. Perfect for a lazy afternoon - you can relax by the water, try paddle boating, or just enjoy the greenery. The island has clean pathways and basic food stalls serving fresh coconut water and snacks.

Krishna River, reachable from Punnami Ghat3:00 PM - 5:30 PM (avoid midday heat)₹50-100 per person (ferry charges)
Tips:
  • Ferries run every 30 minutes
  • Carry sunscreen and hats

Must Try Foods

Gongura Chicken (sorrel leaves curry)
Andhra Thali (spicy multi-course meal)
Pootharekulu (paper-thin sweet)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Vijayawada Junction (2 km from city center, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
PNBS (Pandit Nehru Bus Station) - local buses every 10-15 mins
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and Ola/Uber widely available. Autos are best for short distances (bargain for fares)

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Day 2

Day 2 in Vijayawada

A mix of spiritual sites, local markets, and a peaceful evening by the river, with plenty of delicious Andhra food along the way.

Activities

Kanaka Durga Temple visit
Kanaka Durga Temple visit

Start your day early at this famous hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The morning aarti is a serene experience, and the views of the Krishna River from here are stunning. The temple gets crowded by mid-morning, so arriving early helps avoid queues.

Indrakeeladri Hill, Vijayawada6:00-9:00 AM (best time to visit)Free (donations optional)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Try the prasadam (temple offering) sold outside
Bhavani Island exploration
Bhavani Island exploration

Take a short ferry ride to this peaceful island in the Krishna River. Walk through the lush gardens, try pedal boating, or just relax by the water. The island has clean pathways and shaded sitting areas perfect for a midday break.

Krishna River, near Prakasam Barrage10:30 AM-1:30 PM (before it gets too hot)₹50-100 per person (including ferry)
Tips:
  • Carry water and sunscreen
  • Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
Besant Road food crawl

Spend your evening sampling Vijayawada's famous street food. Start with crispy guntur idli at a local stall, then try the spicy chicken 65 at a roadside eatery, and finish with creamy badam milk from one of the old shops here. The whole street comes alive with food vendors after 6 PM.

Besant Road, Governorpet6:00-7:30 PM₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Look for stalls with the longest queues - they're usually the best
  • Carry cash as many stalls don't accept digital payments

Must Try Foods

Guntur idli (spicy steamed rice cakes)
Andhra chicken 65 (fiery fried chicken)
Badam milk (almond-flavored milk drink)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Vijayawada Junction (2-4 km from all locations, 10-20 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
PNBS (Vijayawada Bus Station) with frequent buses to all city areas
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs easily available throughout the city; use Ola/Uber or negotiate fares with local autos

Day 3

Day 3 in Vijayawada

A relaxed day exploring Vijayawada's hidden gems, local markets, and cultural spots, with plenty of time to savor the city's flavors.

Activities

Morning at Bhavani Island
Morning at Bhavani Island

Start your day with a peaceful boat ride to Bhavani Island on the Krishna River. It's a quiet escape from the city, perfect for a lazy stroll or just sitting by the water. The island has a few small gardens and picnic spots, but the real charm is in its simplicity and views of the river.

Bhavani Island, Krishna River8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (boats start early, best before it gets too hot)Boat ride: ₹50-100 per person, Island entry: ₹20
Tips:
  • Carry water and snacks-options on the island are limited
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths
Explore Besant Road Markets

Head to Besant Road for a taste of local life. This bustling area is packed with small shops selling everything from spices to textiles. The real highlight is the street food-try the crispy 'punugulu' (fried lentil dumplings) or 'bobbatlu' (sweet stuffed flatbread) from the vendors lining the road.

Besant Road, near Eluru Canal11:30 AM - 1:00 PM (lunchtime buzz)Street food: ₹20-100 per item, Shopping varies
Tips:
  • Bargain politely if shopping for souvenirs
  • Look for the small stalls with locals-they’re usually the best
Evening at Prakasam Barrage
Evening at Prakasam Barrage

Wrap up your trip with a sunset walk along Prakasam Barrage. The views of the Krishna River and the city skyline are stunning, and the cool breeze makes it a favorite spot for locals to unwind. There’s often street performers or small food carts selling 'sugarcane juice' or 'corn on the cob' nearby.

Prakasam Barrage, near MG Road5:30 PM - 6:30 PM (best for sunset)Free (snacks/drinks: ₹20-50)
Tips:
  • Wear light layers-it can get breezy
  • Avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds

Must Try Foods

Punugulu (crispy lentil dumplings)
Bobbatlu (sweet stuffed flatbread)
Royyala Iguru (spicy prawn curry)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Vijayawada Junction (3 km from Besant Road, 15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Besant Road Bus Stop (frequent local buses)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs easily available; use Ola/Uber for better rates

Travel Tips

Carry a water bottle - it gets warm even in winter months
Try the famous 'gongura' chutney if you can handle spicy food
Hire an auto for short distances - they're cheaper than cabs
Visit Kanaka Durga Temple early morning to avoid crowds

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