Visakhapatnam in 3 Days: The Perfect Itinerary for Your Vizag Trip
Visakhapatnam, affectionately known as Vizag, is the “Jewel of the East Coast” and a city that beautifully blends natural splendor with a vibrant urban spirit. From its serene beaches and lush green hills to its rich maritime history, Vizag offers a diverse range of attractions for every kind of traveler. A three-day trip is the perfect amount of time to soak in the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.
With the pleasant post-monsoon weather setting in, October is an ideal time to visit. Here’s a perfect 3-day itinerary to help you see and do the best of Visakhapatnam.
Best Time to Visit & How to Reach from Hyderabad
- Best Time to Visit: The period from October to March is the best time to explore Vizag. The weather is cool and pleasant, with low humidity, making it perfect for sightseeing and beach activities.
- How to Reach from Hyderabad:
- By Train: This is a very popular and convenient option, with several overnight trains like the Godavari Express and Visakha Express connecting the two cities.
- By Flight: Direct flights operate daily from Hyderabad (HYD) to Visakhapatnam (VTZ) and take about an hour.
- By Bus: Numerous overnight AC and non-AC buses are also available.
The Perfect 3-Day Visakhapatnam Itinerary
This itinerary balances popular tourist spots with relaxing beach time.
Day 1: City Sights and Hilltop Views
Morning (9 AM – 1 PM): Start your trip at the heart of the city, Ramakrishna Beach (RK Beach). Take a stroll along the promenade and visit the iconic INS Kursura Submarine Museum, a real decommissioned submarine that you can enter and explore. Right next to it is the Visakha Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the city’s history.
Afternoon (1 PM – 4 PM): Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants along the Beach Road.
Evening (4 PM onwards): Head to Kailasagiri Hilltop Park. The best way to reach the top is via the scenic ropeway, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Bay of Bengal. Once at the top, enjoy the lush green park, the giant Shiva-Parvati statues, and the panoramic sunset views.
Day 2: Scenic Coastal Drive and Serene Beaches
Morning (10 AM – 2 PM): Hire a cab or an auto for a scenic drive along the beautiful Beach Road towards Bheemili. On the way, stop at the ancient Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex, a serene archaeological site on a hilltop overlooking the sea.
Afternoon (2 PM – 5 PM): Head back towards the city and spend your afternoon at Rushikonda Beach. This is one of Vizag’s most beautiful and popular beaches, known for its golden sands and clean water. It’s also a hub for water sports like jet skiing and surfing.
Evening (5 PM onwards): Make your way to the stunning Yarada Beach. Flanked by hills on three sides and the Bay of Bengal on the fourth, this beach is more secluded and offers some of the most spectacular sunset views in the city.
Day 3: A Day Trip to the Araku Valley
A trip to Vizag is incomplete without visiting the beautiful hill station of Araku Valley. This will be a full-day trip, so start early.
Morning (6 AM – 1 PM): The best way to experience Araku is by taking the scenic train journey from Visakhapatnam, especially in the Vistadome coach (which must be booked well in advance). The train winds its way through numerous tunnels and over picturesque bridges. Alternatively, you can hire a cab for the 3-4 hour drive.
Afternoon (1 PM – 5 PM): Once in Araku, your main attractions are:
- Borra Caves: These are magnificent million-year-old limestone caves, famous for their stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.
- Galikonda Viewpoint: One of the highest points in the region, offering a breathtaking view of the valley.
- Tribal Museum: A small but interesting museum showcasing the culture and lifestyle of the local tribal communities.
Evening (5 PM onwards): Travel back to Visakhapatnam by cab, which is the recommended way to return, as you can stop at a coffee plantation on the way. Don’t forget to try the famous Bamboo Chicken in Araku.
What to Eat in Vizag
- Seafood: Being a coastal city, Vizag offers delicious and fresh seafood. Try the fish curry or prawn fry at a local restaurant.
- Andhra Cuisine: Don’t miss out on an authentic, spicy Andhra meal.
- Bamboo Chicken: A tribal delicacy from Araku, where chicken is cooked inside a piece of bamboo over coals.
- Madugula Halwa: A famous and unique sweet made from wheat milk.