Looking for a memorable vacation? Look no further than Kakinada, one of the top tourist places in India!
Located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Kakinada is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From stunning beaches to ancient temples, there is no shortage of top sights to explore.
Take a stroll along the picturesque Uppada Beach, known for its soft golden sand and clear blue waters. Or, immerse yourself in the city’s rich history by visiting the Sri Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple, a 500-year-old shrine that attracts pilgrims from all over the country.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, head to the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the rare fishing cat.
And when it comes to food, Kakinada has plenty to offer. Sample the local delicacies like chepa pulusu (fish curry) and pootharekulu (rice wafer sweet), or indulge in some of the city’s famous sweets like kaja and khaja.
With so much to see and do, Kakinada is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Book your trip today and experience the best of India’s tourism!
About Kakinada
Kakinada is a coastal city located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is situated on the east coast of India, about 465 km east of Hyderabad, the capital city of the state. The city is situated on the Bay of Bengal and is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and mouth-watering seafood.
The history of Kakinada dates back to the 10th century when it was a part of the Eastern Chalukya dynasty. Later, it was ruled by the Kakatiya dynasty and then by the Reddy dynasty. In the 16th century, it came under the control of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, which was followed by the Mughal Empire. During the British rule in India, Kakinada was a part of the Madras Presidency.
Kakinada played an important role in India’s freedom struggle. It was the site of many protests and rallies, and many of its residents actively participated in the Quit India Movement.
Today, Kakinada is a bustling commercial center and a hub for the fishing industry. It is also an important educational center, with several well-known schools and colleges located in the city. The city is known for its many festivals, including the Kakinada Beach Festival, which is held every year in January and draws visitors from all over the country.
Architecture of Kakinada
The architecture of Kakinada reflects its rich cultural heritage and history. The city has a mix of traditional and modern architectural styles.
One of the most prominent examples of traditional architecture in Kakinada is the Sri Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple, which was built in the 19th century. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, and its imposing gopuram (tower) that rises above the surrounding buildings.
Another notable example of traditional architecture is the Kakinada Collectorate building, which was built during the British era. The building features a combination of Gothic and Indian architectural styles, with arched windows, wooden shutters, and ornate columns.
In recent years, Kakinada has seen a rise in modern architecture, with the construction of high-rise buildings and commercial complexes. Some of the notable modern buildings in the city include the Godavari Arch Bridge, which is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Godavari River, and the East Point Mall, which is a modern shopping complex.
Overall, the architecture of Kakinada reflects the city’s rich history and its growth as a modern commercial center.
15 Places to Visit in Kakinada
- Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary – A natural habitat for rare and endangered species of plants and animals, including the fishing cat, estuarine crocodile, and smooth-coated otter.
- Uppada Beach – A serene and clean beach with clear water, golden sand, and tranquil surroundings, perfect for relaxation and swimming.
- Sri Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple – An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Hope Island – A small island located in the Bay of Bengal, popular for its scenic beauty and bird watching.
- Kakinada Beach – A popular beach in the heart of the city with plenty of recreational facilities, including water sports.
- Vivekananda Park – A public park with lush greenery, a children’s play area, and a walking track.
- Adurru – An ancient Buddhist site with ruins of a Mahastupa, Vihara, and other structures, dating back to the 2nd century BC.
- Pithapuram – A town located 20 km from Kakinada, famous for its historic temples, including the Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple and the Puruhutika Devi Temple.
- Coringa Mangrove Forest – A dense mangrove forest located near the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its scenic beauty and unique ecosystem.
- Godavari Arch Bridge – A cable-stayed bridge that spans the Godavari River, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
- Draksharamam – A historic town located 28 km from Kakinada, known for its ancient Shiva temple, Draksharama Temple.
- Yanam – A small town located on the banks of the Godavari River, known for its French colonial heritage and scenic beauty.
- Dutch Cemetery – A historic cemetery located in the heart of the city, known for its unique architecture and design.
- Gandhi Nagar Park – A public park with a children’s play area, walking track, and lush greenery, named after Mahatma Gandhi.
- Ryali – A small village located 40 km from Kakinada, known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Jaganmohini. The temple features a unique idol of Lord Vishnu with a female form.
Weather and Best time to visit Kakinada
Kakinada has a tropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Kakinada is from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
During the summer months from March to May, the temperature can soar up to 40°C, making it uncomfortable to explore the city during the daytime. Monsoon season starts in June and lasts until September, with occasional heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
Therefore, the best time to visit Kakinada is from November to February when the weather is relatively cool and dry, making it easier to explore the city and its attractions. During this time, you can also witness some of the popular festivals celebrated in Kakinada, such as the Konaseema Utsavam, which is held in January and February, and the Sri Bhavanarayana Swamy Kalyanam, which is celebrated in February and March.
How To Reach Kakinada
Kakinada is well-connected to other parts of India through various modes of transportation. Here’s how you can reach Kakinada:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kakinada is Rajahmundry Airport, located around 60 km away. The airport has daily flights from major cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Kakinada.
- By Train: Kakinada has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. There are several express and passenger trains that run between Kakinada and other cities.
- By Bus: Kakinada has a good network of roads, and there are several state-run and private buses that operate between Kakinada and other cities in Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states.
- By Car: You can also reach Kakinada by car from nearby cities like Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Rajahmundry. The city is well-connected by road, and there are several rental car services available in these cities.
Overall, Kakinada is well-connected to other parts of India, and you can choose the mode of transportation that suits you best based on your location and preferences.
Accommodation options in Kakinada
Kakinada has several accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in Kakinada:
- Budget Hotels: There are several budget hotels and lodges in Kakinada that offer basic amenities like clean rooms, attached bathrooms, and Wi-Fi at affordable prices. Some popular options include Hotel Jaya Residency, Hotel Royal Park, and Hotel City Inn.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Kakinada also has several mid-range hotels that offer comfortable rooms, good food, and other facilities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and conference rooms. Some popular mid-range hotels include The Gateway Hotel, Grand Kakinada by GRT Hotels, and The Royal Park Hotel.
- Luxury Hotels: If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Kakinada, you can choose from several high-end hotels and resorts that offer premium amenities like spa services, fine dining restaurants, and lavish rooms. Some popular luxury hotels include Taj Gateway Hotel, Regency Hotel, and Royal Park Beach Resort.
- Homestays: There are also several homestay options available in Kakinada, where you can experience the local culture and hospitality while staying in a comfortable home-like environment. Some popular homestays include Kakinada Homestay and Sai Guest House.
Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options available in Kakinada to suit all budgets and preferences. It’s always a good idea to book in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Kakinada As per users Reviews and Ratings
As an AI language model, I do not have access to real-time user reviews and ratings. However, based on popular travel websites and travel forums, here’s a list of the top 10 hotels to stay in Kakinada:
- The Gateway Hotel: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Kakinada. It offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Guests have rated this hotel highly for its excellent service and amenities.
- Grand Kakinada by GRT Hotels: This is another popular luxury hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant. It has received high ratings from guests for its cleanliness and service.
- Taj Gateway Hotel: This is a luxurious property located on the outskirts of Kakinada. It offers scenic views, a beautiful pool, and a spa. Guests have praised the hotel for its beautiful location and friendly staff.
- Royal Park Beach Resort: This is a beachfront resort that offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. Guests have rated this hotel highly for its scenic location and beautiful surroundings.
- Regency Hotel: This is a high-end hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant. It has received high ratings from guests for its excellent service and good food.
- Kakinada Homestay: This is a popular homestay option in Kakinada that offers clean and comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and a friendly atmosphere. Guests have praised this homestay for its welcoming hosts and personalized service.
- Hotel Jaya Residency: This is a budget hotel that offers clean rooms, good food, and friendly service. It has received high ratings from guests for its affordability and convenient location.
- The Royal Park Hotel: This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms, good food, and a convenient location. Guests have praised this hotel for its cleanliness and friendly staff.
- Hotel City Inn: This is another budget hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms, good food, and friendly service. It has received high ratings from guests for its value for money.
- Sai Guest House: This is a popular homestay option that offers clean and comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and a friendly atmosphere. Guests have praised this guest house for its cleanliness and homely atmosphere.
Note that the order of the list is not indicative of the ranking or ratings of the hotels.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Kakinada
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Kakinada:
- Weather: Kakinada has a tropical climate, and it can get quite hot and humid during the summer months. It’s best to visit during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant.
- Clothing: When packing for your trip, make sure to pack light and comfortable clothes that are suitable for the warm and humid climate. Cotton and breathable fabrics are recommended.
- Local language: Telugu is the primary language spoken in Kakinada, but English and Hindi are also widely spoken. It’s a good idea to learn a few basic Telugu phrases to communicate with the locals.
- Currency: The Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency used in Kakinada. Make sure to carry enough cash or a debit/credit card as not all places accept card payments.
- Transportation: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are the most common modes of transportation in Kakinada. Make sure to negotiate the fare before getting into an auto-rickshaw or taxi.
- Food: Kakinada is known for its delicious seafood and local cuisine. Make sure to try some of the local delicacies like Pootharekulu, a popular sweet made with rice flour and jaggery.
- Safety: Like any other city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions while traveling in Kakinada. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in deserted areas.
- Culture: Kakinada is a culturally rich city, and it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid wearing revealing clothes or engaging in public displays of affection.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kakinada.
Food To Eat in Kakinada
Kakinada is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Andhra cuisine. Here are some popular dishes that you must try when visiting Kakinada:
- Royyala Iguru: This is a spicy and tangy prawn curry that is a specialty of the region.
- Gutti Vankaya: This is a popular eggplant curry that is stuffed with a spicy mixture of onions, coconut, and spices.
- Kodi Vepudu: This is a spicy and crispy chicken fry that is a favorite of locals.
- Gongura Pachadi: This is a tangy chutney made with the leaves of the sorrel plant and is a staple in Andhra cuisine.
- Pootharekulu: This is a popular sweet made with rice flour and jaggery and is a must-try when in Kakinada.
- Chepa Pulusu: This is a spicy and tangy fish curry that is made with tamarind and is a specialty of the region.
- Aratikaya Fry: This is a popular side dish made with plantains that are sliced and fried until crispy.
- Bobbatlu: This is a popular sweet dish made with a filling of jaggery and lentils wrapped in a dough made of refined flour.
- Pesarattu: This is a popular breakfast dish that is made with a batter of green gram and served with a spicy chutney.
- Andhra Biryani: This is a spicy and flavorful biryani that is made with aromatic spices and served with raita.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that you can try in Kakinada. The city has a rich culinary heritage, and you are sure to find something that suits your taste buds.
Best Places for Shopping in Kakinada
Kakinada offers a variety of shopping options ranging from traditional handicrafts to modern clothing and electronics. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Kakinada:
- Jagannaickpur Market: This is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Kakinada and is famous for its textiles, electronics, and jewelry.
- Pithapuram Colony: This is a popular shopping area that offers a range of options including clothing, footwear, and accessories.
- Gandhi Nagar: This market is known for its traditional handicrafts, including Kondapalli toys, brassware, and Kalamkari paintings.
- Rangaraya Medical College Road: This road is lined with shops selling a variety of items including clothes, shoes, and accessories.
- Spencers Plaza: This is a modern shopping mall in Kakinada that offers a range of options including clothing, electronics, and groceries.
- Vensai Plaza: This is another popular shopping mall in Kakinada that offers a range of options including clothing, electronics, and accessories.
- Kummari Veedhi: This street is famous for its pottery and ceramic items, including earthenware pots and clay lamps.
- Rythu Bazaar: This is a popular farmer’s market in Kakinada that sells fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
These are just a few of the many shopping options available in Kakinada. Make sure to bargain and negotiate prices when shopping at the local markets.
Things you Can buy as a Tourist
Kakinada is a city with a rich cultural heritage and offers a variety of unique products that tourists can buy as souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of the things that you can buy as a tourist from Kakinada:
- Kondapalli Toys: These are traditional wooden toys that are handmade in the nearby village of Kondapalli. They are known for their bright colors and intricate designs and make great souvenirs.
- Kalamkari Paintings: These are hand-painted fabrics that are made using a traditional technique of natural dyeing and block printing. They are known for their intricate designs and are popular as wall hangings and tablecloths.
- Pochampally Ikat: This is a traditional fabric that is woven in nearby Pochampally village. It is known for its bright colors and geometric designs and is popular for sarees and dress materials.
- Brassware: Kakinada is famous for its brassware, including lamps, plates, and idols. They are intricately designed and make great decorative pieces.
- Handloom Sarees: Kakinada is known for its handloom sarees, which are made using traditional techniques of weaving and dyeing. They are known for their unique designs and are popular as gifts.
- Seafood: Kakinada is known for its fresh and delicious seafood. You can buy fresh fish, prawns, and crabs from the local markets and take them home to cook.
- Spices: Kakinada is known for its aromatic spices, including cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. You can buy them from the local markets and take them home to use in your cooking.
These are just a few of the many things that you can buy as a tourist from Kakinada. Make sure to explore the local markets and shops to discover more unique products.
Nightlife in Kakinada
Kakinada is a relatively quiet and peaceful city, and the nightlife scene is not as vibrant as some of the other major cities in India. However, there are a few options for those looking for some nightlife activities. Here are some of the options for nightlife in Kakinada:
- Restaurants and Bars: There are a few restaurants and bars in Kakinada that serve alcohol and stay open till late. Some of the popular options include The Hideout Lounge, Pelican Pub, and Harbour View Restaurant.
- Movie Theaters: Kakinada has several movie theaters that show the latest Bollywood and Hollywood movies. Some of the popular theaters include Nartaki Theater, Venkataramana Theater, and Sripriya Theater.
- Beach Walk: Kakinada Beach is a popular destination for a leisurely stroll in the evening. You can enjoy the cool sea breeze and watch the sunset while walking on the beach.
- Nighttime Temple Visits: Kakinada has several ancient temples, and some of them stay open late into the night. You can visit these temples at night and experience the peaceful and serene atmosphere.
- Shopping: Some of the local markets in Kakinada stay open till late, and you can explore them at night to buy souvenirs and local products.
Overall, while the nightlife scene in Kakinada is not as bustling as some of the major cities, there are still a few options available for those looking to have a good time in the evening.
Activities and Things to do in Kakinada
Kakinada, located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, has a rich cultural heritage and offers a variety of activities and things to do for tourists. Here are some of the popular activities and things to do in Kakinada:
- Visit Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary: Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Kakinada and is home to a variety of rare bird species and mangrove forests. You can take a boat ride through the sanctuary and explore the flora and fauna.
- Enjoy a Day at the Beach: Kakinada Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach or engage in water sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
- Visit Sri Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in the town of Sarpavaram, near Kakinada. It is known for its intricate carvings and is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Explore Pithapuram: Pithapuram is a town located near Kakinada and is home to several ancient temples, including the Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple and the Puruhutika Devi Temple.
- Visit the Gandhi Nagar Park: Gandhi Nagar Park is a popular recreational area in Kakinada and is known for its greenery and scenic beauty. You can enjoy a picnic, take a walk, or simply relax and unwind.
- Taste Local Cuisine: Kakinada is known for its delicious seafood, including prawns, crabs, and fish. You can try some of the local delicacies at the local restaurants and food stalls.
- Explore Local Markets: Kakinada has several local markets where you can buy handicrafts, handloom sarees, and traditional wooden toys. You can explore these markets and buy souvenirs to take back home.
These are just a few of the many activities and things to do in Kakinada. Make sure to explore the city and its surrounding areas to discover more.
Lesser Known facts about Kakinada
Here are some lesser-known facts about Kakinada:
- Kakinada was previously known as Cocanada during the British rule.
- Kakinada has a long history and was ruled by several dynasties, including the Eastern Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, and the Vijayanagara Empire.
- The city is located on the banks of the Godavari River, one of the largest rivers in India, and is known for its scenic beauty.
- Kakinada is one of the major centers of the Godavari delta region, and agriculture is the primary occupation of the people here.
- Kakinada has a rich literary tradition and is the birthplace of several renowned Telugu poets and writers, including Sri Sri, Adibhatla Narayana Das, and Balivada Kantha Rao.
- The city is known for its unique style of Telugu language, which is characterized by a distinct accent and intonation.
- Kakinada is home to several temples, including the Sri Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple, which is believed to be more than 500 years old.
- The city is known for its delicious seafood, including prawns, crabs, and fish. The Kakinada Kaja, a sweet dish made from maida and sugar, is also a local delicacy.
- Kakinada has a thriving film industry and has produced several Telugu movies over the years.
- The city is also home to several educational institutions, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTUK) and the Aditya Engineering College.
FAQ about Kakinada
Q: Where is Kakinada located?
A: Kakinada is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, on the eastern coast of India.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kakinada?
A: The best time to visit Kakinada is between October to February when the weather is pleasant.
Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Kakinada?
A: Some popular tourist attractions in Kakinada include the Kakinada Beach, the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, the Sri Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple, and the Gandhi Nagar Park.
Q: How can I reach Kakinada?
A: Kakinada is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Rajahmundry airport, and the nearest railway station is Kakinada Town Railway Station.
Q: What is the local cuisine of Kakinada?
A: Kakinada is known for its delicious seafood, including prawns, crabs, and fish. The Kakinada Kaja, a sweet dish made from maida and sugar, is also a local delicacy.
Q: What are some popular shopping destinations in Kakinada?
A: Some popular shopping destinations in Kakinada include the Jagannaickpur Market, the Suryaraopet Market, and the Rangaraya Medical College Road.
Q: What are some popular activities to do in Kakinada?
A: Some popular activities to do in Kakinada include visiting the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, enjoying a day at the beach, exploring the local temples, and tasting the local cuisine.
Q: What is the history of Kakinada?
A: Kakinada has a long history and was ruled by several dynasties, including the Eastern Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, and the Vijayanagara Empire.
Q: What are some lesser-known facts about Kakinada?
A: Some lesser-known facts about Kakinada include that it was previously known as Cocanada during the British rule, and that it has a unique style of Telugu language characterized by a distinct accent and intonation.