Apart from the
beaches, ports, steel plant and refinery the place Vizag has been once a flourishing centre for
Buddhist culture. It was a surprise for me too till I actually reached this
place called “Thotlakonda Caves”. As I always say Travellers never
think of themselves as foreigners, whatever time I could have managed from my
schedule I stepped out to relish the soothing ambience at Thotlakonda.
It is believed that Vizag had been once a part of legendary Kalinga Empire and Buddhism flourished here under the patronage of rulers of Kalinga. The place must have been flourishing centre around 200 BC - 200 AD.
Mounds, Stupas, Chaitya grihas and pillared halls indicate that this place must have been a Buddhist monastery/ university for primary students. Check out the largest of the existing Stupa:
A well equipped kitchen to cater to needs of students and visiting scholars was also operating in this campus.
A Giant Stupa...

Layout of the premises with self explanatory mark up boards...
Some excavated structures.....
There are a few guides also at this place who can explain the various structures and significance of each of these. Good part they do not bargain for fees and accept whatever you will give, but please be reasonable enough as it is their only means of livelihood.
Thotlakonda in Telugu means "Eagle had shaped Hill". One can also enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the nearby beaches an landscapes. To reach Thotlakonda, Bheemunipatnam from Vizag railway station.
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