Such a pleasant place it is. The history of this place is mesmerizing 💫 I would rate 10⭐ if the Google review is having an option to. But Yes, You don't find any convenience stores over there to buy water or anything that is needed. The beach view, the historical Buddhist monuments over there are simply superb. I really loved the way the guide and a guard who explained about that place in a perfect manner that anyone can understand.

This has been my best loved destination during trip Vizag and Arakku. Unfortunately, I had many asking how did I liked the beach and the natural arch; but only few recognized the Vihara at the top of hill, even ahead of the beach and natural arch. The excavated remains of Vihara, and the view point of arched beach quite far below, are 2 main attractions. This historic place would need at least 30-60 min to sit back, learn about the history and enjoy.

Don't be fooled by the renovated structure that sits around now. Those were built only in the last 50 years. I've posted the pictures of the actual remnants from the said age of this place. Hire the guide who's there, who'll give you a brief history of the place. Just be respectful of the place in general and don't climb onto monuments you aren't supposed to. There's also a brilliant viewpoint of the nearby beach if you walk 200 ft from this monument. Hope the state government takes care of the stone remnants better than leaving them to be weathered under the sun.

THE CITY OF VISAKHAPATNAM IN Andhra Pradesh is mostly known for its many beaches and maritime history, but it is also home to several Buddhist archaeological sites, including the ancient hilltop monastic complexes of Bavikonda and Thotlakonda. Discovered by the Indian Navy during its aerial survey of the area, the ruins of Thotlakonda were excavated by the state department of archaeology from 1988 to 1993. Among the artifacts found during the excavations were a hoard of ancient coins, mainly consisting of Satavahana lead and Roman silver, indicating that the site flourished from foreign trade between the 2nd century B.C. and the 3rd century A.D. hotlakonda THE CITY OF VISAKHAPATNAM IN Andhra Pradesh is mostly known for its many beaches and maritime history, but it is also home to several Buddhist archaeological sites, including the ancient hilltop monastic complexes of Bavikonda and Thotlakonda. Discovered by the Indian Navy during its aerial survey of the area, the ruins of Thotlakonda were excavated by the state department of archaeology from 1988 to 1993. Among the artifacts found during the excavations were a hoard of ancient coins, mainly consisting of Satavahana lead and Roman silver, indicating that the site flourished from foreign trade between the 2nd century B.C. and the 3rd century A.D. Archaeological evidence suggests that the monastery was supported by local Buddhists and traders rather than a local ruler, and that it was an important cultural and academic center, with many monks coming over from China and other regions to learn and meditate. The archaeological complex is composed of stupas, chaitya grihas, and viharas, as well as remnants of a kitchen, a dining hall, and rock-hewn cisterns which gave the site its name (Thotlakonda roughly means “hill of troughs” in Telugu.) The stupa, also known here as the Mahastupa or “great stupa,” is especially notable and often representative of the complex itself. It was partially destroyed during the monsoon season in 2019, but it was restored to its former glory at the cost of Rs 42 lakhs (approx. $31,000 USD) in 2021. Currently, the Indian government is planning to submit the Buddhist complexes of Visakhapatnam to UNESCO for consideration for World Heritage status. If approved, the archaeological sites should receive the preservation and recognition that they deserve.

A 1700 Buddhist monastery discovered around 1970s and develop by 1993. Damaged areas are being repaired and rebuilt. The security guard knows his stuff and has been our guide. Told us everything in detail and with lot of enthusiasm. It cost us 30bucks for 3 people. Open on all days and makes for a good evening visit. A little further ahead the road is a nice view point.

Calm place to visit! Has got pits for water harvesting hence the name Thotlakonda. Believed to have built and lived in, by Goutham Buddha and his disciples. Has a very good eagle viewpoint!

Beautiful Buddha's place on top of the hill with a scenic view of the sea shore.

Nice to lover........ Their many cars and bikes are daily 100 💯 s of bike are their visiting with their girlfriend or boyfriend or family member.. High mountain view their to beach side And most of people are there enjoying weekend And their entire are very nice to looking Beach view point also their I enjoyed my friends a lot of history please So my dear friends you must be go their ...

Good place for a family outing. Things to be considered- 1. No dedicated parking, but enough place is there. ₹ 30 for 4 wheeler entry fee. 2. No wash room facilities. 3. No drinking water facilities. 4. No food stalls. 5. 📷 - not chargeable. 6. Time required- on average 40 - 60 min max. 7. No shaded areas, so 👓 umbrellas, water 💦 and eatables to be carried. 8. Quite a photo shoot session may have been planned. 9. Guides available. 10. The beach and restaurants opposite to the main entrance may be useful.

Very nice place but very calm. Good maintenance. Beach view is spectacular. Entrance fee for car is 30 rupees and its worth as you can go all places by car otherwise it's too much to walk. Please carry water along with you as no shops will be there. Must visit place.

A 1700 Buddhist monastery discovered around 1970s and develop by 1993. Damaged areas are being repaired and rebuilt. The security guard knows his stuff and has been our guide. Told us everything in detail and with lot of enthusiasm. It cost us 30bucks for 3 people. Open on all days and makes for a good evening visit. A little further ahead the road is a nice view point.

Excellent place and ancient Buddhist monestry is awesome. You can various types of ancient bulidings which are almost ruined and domes also. The place is very clean and well maintained. You just have to give parking fee at the gate that's all. Not recommended to visit in summer because it's situated in open area. But in the afternoon it is very good place.

Beautiful, well maintained Buddhist heritage site. The roads to this place are well maintained. The entire site is beautifully maintained. Since there is no commercial activity here, there is no litter anywhere in this site. Very peaceful. Best time to visit would be in the evening. There is an entry fee of 30₹ as of date for cars.

It is a very old Buddhist nonstory. The signs of that time home and kitchens, store room, water storage, meeting place structures are there. A good picnic spot is available here and also good view of thotlakonda beach, if you go here only you have to take vehicle parking ticket. The hill top is about 2.5 Km from DR. NTR Road and only 4 wheeler or two wheeler are allowed to up hill. If you are going by an Auto Riksha, it will be not be allowed and you have to walk 2.5 km up hill road.

Wowww... This is such a sacred place with ages old history. I felt utmost respect while walking over this place. And also this park.. view point to watch beach from the hill.. that's treat to eyes and heart. I request every individual to respect this place and don't disturb anything there. There's a guide over there.. he explained everything so well. I hope they get paid well.

It is a very old Buddhist nonstory. The signs of that time home and kitchens, store room, water storage, meeting place structures are there.If you go here only you have to take vehicle parking ticket at entry also enjoy sight seeing at park nearby on top

Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex is a serene and historically significant site. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it offers a glimpse into the ancient Buddhist heritage of India. The well-preserved stupas, chaityas, and viharas are a testament to the craftsmanship of that era. The panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal add to the charm. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.

Great place to be here. It's a full of scenic beauty. Many tourists visit this place to get the feel of natural beauty. Many pre wedding shoots are aranged over here. Relatively clean place however this needs some regular maintenance. One can get very nice beauty of sea, trees, small houses and cloud. One of the must to visit places in Vizaag.

We visited this place on the way to Bheemili beach and it was all worth it. Spent some good time walking around and also the climate was pleasant in December. There is a decent footfall at this place and not too crowded.

While conducting an aerial survey, the Indian Navy discovered this place on the hill top. Thotla means troughs, as the place has many rock-cut troughs and konda means hill. Later excavations were conducted by the archeological department which revealed a Theravada Monastery. Several ancient structures like Maha Stupa, Votive Stupas, rock-cut cisterns, Chaitya Grihas, viharas, kitchen etc. were found in the excavation. It is a place of historical importance. It has an accessible motorable road, however one has to walk inside to visit the stupas and viharas. Photography is not allowed, but it is not prohibited also (one can take photos with phone). The place is not wheel-chair accessible, however one can reach uo to the gate. The entry is free.

It is one of the ancient and oldest place.it has a lots of gistory.buddhists used to live year once upon a time.the view from the top is wonderful with a beach view

Beautiful place to visit if you are interested in knowing about BUDDHISM and there culture. This place is so calm and peaceful nature. I am really happy the way guide explained the history of this place.

This is one the greatest Buddhist legacy place in India. Where monks use to live here in 1000's of years back. There will be guide, he can share more information if required. Please show this historical place to school kids, they may learn more about Buddhism and historical culture in a right way.

Such a pleasant place it is. The history of this place is mesmerizing 💫 I would rate 10⭐ if the Google review is having an option to. I really loved the way the guide and a guard who explained about that place in a perfect manner that anyone can understand🥰. Historical place and very peaceful place to relax here.. U can also have a beach view from the top which is very spectacular.

Don't be fooled by the renovated structure that sits around now. Those were built only in the last 50 years.I've posted the pictures of the actual remnants from the said age of this place. Hire the guide who's there, who'll give you a brief history of the place.Just be respectful of the place in general and don't climb onto monuments you aren't supposed to.There's also a brilliant viewpoint of the nearby beach if you walk 200 ft from this monument.Hope the state government takes care of the stone remnants better than leaving them to be weathered under the sun.Don't be fooled by the renovated structure that sits around now. Those were built only in the last 50 years.I've posted the pictures of the actual remnants from the said age of this place. Hire the guide who's there, who'll give you a brief history of the place.Just be respectful of the place in general and don't climb onto monuments you aren't supposed to.There's also a brilliant viewpoint of the nearby beach if you walk 200 ft from this monument.Hope the state government takes care of the stone remnants better than leaving them to be weathered under the sun.

I visited this historic place on 7th May 2023. The place is awesome for some me time for yourself to introspect in greeneries, the ruins , the blue sky and of course soothing beach. If you want to go with your gang than o boys this is your place for fun, games , challenges, photos , video and of course some reel time. Beach pictures is saved for later time but now imagine this place with this pictures. Entry fees Rs 10/- per head

Thotlakonda is a historical place with ancient Buddhist monasteries. The term "Thotlakonda" means "Wells on the hill" which are evident on this area. It is considered that Goutham Buddha with disciples lived here thousands of years back & left the area due to religious plight. There are freelancer guides who can beautifully explain the historical importance of the area in details. The area was renovated by the Archeological Department of India although ruins & remnants of original Buddhist monastey are still available.

Natural arch…from vizag 20-25km this is finest location in vizag ..such a beautiful place ..beauty of bay of bengal..clear water natural arch and crowded free beach..arch around 6-7 feet hight…arch around millions years age..1-2 shop available.. pls keep water bottle and umbrella …there are no toilet..

It's a very good place to visit with family. Here guide will explain us very clearly about Buddhastupa. Another attraction in this is "Park", with Sea view. It's better to visit this place in the evenings

It is a old Buddhist Historic place. The View from the top is amazing. There is also a guide who'll give you a insight about the place. If you go there on a bike or car you'll have to pay small fee for parking ticket.

good view of sea view on top of totlakonda hill, and this place was buddhism place and Buddha's are staying here that time thier home and kitchens and store room structure here, and good picnic sport here and also good view of totlakonda beach view, if you go here only you have to take vehicle parking ticket

must visit place. location is awesome. when you reach the uphill, you would understand ,why it has been built over there. highly recommended. currently its been closed due to covid-19. but you will get a bird eye of valley from the top. rs. 30/- for entry

History lover may find attraction.. But as a common traveller, I didn't find any attraction. All the domes are protecred, you can't see them closely, just see them from the outside.

Nice place to spend time.Beach full of different types of rocks.Away from the crowd.

Nice place to relax. Could have been better if it was maintained well. But overall a nice place with a nice view of the sea.

Nice place for picnic.. best place to enjoy the weather and beach..perfect place for nature lovers...

A Buddhist monastery atop a hill overlooking the Bay that housed about 150 inmates...From 300 BC to 300 AD. Worth a visit with a knowledgeable guide.

Reminiscent of the buddha monastery. Most of the remains are intact. Nice views of the sea too. Guide will cost you about 200. Will give an odea of how Buddhist monks used to live.

Enjoy this place and better to go there before 10 after 3pm

Our 2200 years old history ... tell us that our ancestors were modern, scientific, technological, spiritual and brave

Amzing place with breathtaking view.I have given a 3 star because of low maintainance. These should be maintained on a regular basis.

Natural beauty... We must see

Good place

Awesome experience for photo shoot...

It would be better if it maintained well

Awesome

I love it.

Nice one to see

Avg

Fully people

Nice place

Good place 👍

Nice place to visit but only veiw point is there

Ancient Place Excellent Place

Need to improve facilities on the hill.

Best historical place

super

Best historical place in Visakhapatnam

Good privacy place to spend time alone

Best beach View point in Vizag

Nice place

Very nice place and divine place

The beach here is serene and the rock formations are very exciting...the waves coming up in between the gaps of these rock caves and makes splash...a very nice place to hangout with family

Nice view point

Historical and buddist place

Buddhist monetary, place was developed earlier but maha stupa had fell down due recent rains...

It is a Buddhist ancient place,mostly loved by people who love historical places

Nyc place

The person working as security near the old remains of this historical place is an excellent guide who shared detailed information about the place and it's history.

Thotlakonda is an ancient buddisht monastery. The drive up is very beautiful, with well kept flowery plants on both sides of the roads. You will also find a viewpoint which will give you a breathtaking view of the beach road. After you get to the top of the hill, you can get in touch with the guard who has pretty good knowledge of every stupa and the story behind it.

You can see good view of the city and beach.

Apart from poor water and food facility , A historical place and not much interested without a guide.

Really ancient Buddhist Monastery. The ASI has redone some of the ruins and put up a layout sketch of the place near the entrance. Less crowded as compared to Kailasa giri. There is a freelance guide available for those who are interested in learning a bit more. The view of the coast below from the vantage point is breathtaking. Worth a visit!

Wonderful

Good pleasant place to spend time with family.

Good Place to vist and Awsome View point

One of the best historical places at Viazag. The monuments are maintained well. We also can find some connections between Hindu History and Buddhist History here.

Thotlakonda hill and a couple of other hills were discovered during an Ariel survey of Vizag. Where they found ruins of Buddhist Monastery at the top. There are small tombs and meditation blocks, living areas etc If you have sometime, you should definitely visit these places, which are not added to the top 10 things to do in Vizag. When you are leaving, on your left you will find a Lake full of Lotus.. You can stop by here for a quick photo session. Thank me later. 😊

👍🏻 Recommended If your re someone who finds history and Buddhism interesting, it's surely a place to check in. The 2000 year old Buddhist complex is about 20 Kms from Vizag city. The excavation work is still on, while you can still take a stroll in the pathways of the complex. Don't miss the view point while you ride down the cliff. Entry fee for 2 wheelers - INR 20

pleasant beach view point. worth visiting for the view. The monastery site seems to be reconstructed to an extent.

very beautiful ancient buddhist monastery. Still in good shape. on hill top, good view around. must visit in vizag

Historical Buddhist site nearby Vizag bhmili beach road

Good place but the sthupa was no more it was damaged but you can walk and see other attractions and you can enjoy peace

Recommended if you have a relaxed Vizag itinerary. Well maintained historic monument. Near to Thotlakonda Beach and Park. An evening in Thotlakonda will be satisfying.

Superb place with ancient Buddhist history of the world.

It's was a good place for photoshoots with nice scenary and it's was an archaeological place where we can find natural arch rock at the sea shore

Very nice place to have fresh air and beautiful view of sea from park and ancient monuments. Dnt mis, it. Worrh spending time.

Superb Ancient place of Budhaism nearly 300 BC. Founded in 1970

View is pretty awesome food is the only thing that we dint satisfied with

Very good place to spend an afternoon. There is an ancient monastery on the hill top. There is a sea view park on top the hill as well.

One of my favorite spots in Vizag. Less crowd, and amazing sea view.

Excellent place for nature lovers. Must visit. Beautiful view points

A Great place and must visit for people visiting Visakhapatnam. Located in hilltop the monstary is well maintained with nice plantation all around the way. There is entry fees of 30₹ for cars. The Monastery is well preserved although in ruins mostly but once on hilltop there is a completely different feeling. Also there is a view point ahead of Monastery which gives breathtaking views of bay of Bengal and the nearby beaches.

This is one of the buddhist complex present in the state. People keen about historical information and structures can visit this place apart from that there is a lot less to see in this particular area. Moreover people can travel to the hill and gaze at the fantastic view of the city with the sight of Bay of Bengal giving a feast to eyes.

One of the less explored / less-crowded place in Visakhapatnam. Mostly has become time-pass place for couples or college-teens to celebrate birthdays.

Around 16 km from Vishakhapatnam is the Thotlakonda, a Buddhist complex situated on the top of a hill. The site spreads over an area of 120 acres and has been declared a protected monument by the government Andhra Pradesh. Excavations here include a Mahastupa, 16 votive stupas, a stone pillared congregation hall, 11 rock-cut cisterns, well-paved stone path ways, an apsidal chaitya-griha, 3 circular chaitgya-grihas, two votive platforms, 10 viharas, a kitchen complex with three halls and a refectory (dining hall).

Beautiful place! Enjoyed hearing the 2000 years of history from the guide. It is amazing to learn such spots exist.

Best place to vist of you all intrested in/on/at BUDDHISM and want to know about the decades lasting past informtion of the monks and there living style Relics and statutes and Stupas. U - can get more information from the Guide at that place. Do not miss the sea views over there.!?!

Located around 20 kms from Vizag,this place is definitely a historical landmark. It’s a place to experience an amalgamation of liberalism of Buddhism with the famous architectural style in the form of ‘stupas’. The view from the top is breathtakingly beautiful. The whole place is calm and nice for spending quality time with own self. If someone is interested in history of our esteemed country,this is definitely a must visit place.

This is a historic place. Isolated area. Around 15 kms distance from visakhapatnam. The view of beach from this monastery is good. You will not find any hotel or shop near by this. So it is difficult to get food/snacks or water here. After visiting this place you can go to the BEACH VIEW POINT , which is a peaceful spot, and hang there with your family and friends.

Historical place and very peaceful place to relax here.. U can also have a beach view from the top which is very spectacular

1. Beautiful place from where you can enjoy the sea view to its best . 2. Very calm place with neat and clan environment. 3. You can go and have your time with near and dears 4. People usually carry their food and have it here with the sea view .

Beautiful & historical place indeed. Autos aren't allowed to go to the top, better hire private cars or Ola hourly rentals. P.S. Don't forget to visit the natural arch at the Thotlakonda Beach (APTDC tour doesn't cover that place)

On way to Bheemli beach. Old historic buddhist place. It's on a hilltop so we get good views from here. Worth going this place. They have freelancer guides there who explain in detail about the place. As a tourist I would recommend this place. Can easily spend 30 mins here. There's a nominal entry ticket and car parking charges.

It 1km from the gate you need to have your own it will be easy to reach the monument from the gate There is no place to eat if your spending more time bring your own water bottle n food. It is really a pleasant experience. Calm places to go and sit the monuments stupas. Can enjoy the mountain view and beach view from there. The entry is free. We need to pay 20rs for parking. Its 2000yr old monuments. Memorials. There are some sculptures are there that represents the rulers and the way of living. I really enjoyed the view and moments and the memories. Its 5 km from IT sez.

Famous ruins of thothlakonda.. went here back here in 2012 and 2015 .. the ruins are not that much in good shape.. but the view from here is great.. the place is situated just beside the sea on a hill top.. great place...

Thotlakonda Buddhist Monastery is the heritage site of a Buddhist monastery that flourished over 2000 years ago. There you will find a mahastupa, devotional stupa, rock cut cistern, chaitanya griha, a congregation hall , vihara, kitchen, dining hall etc. The rock-cut cisterns were for storing water for the monks. This site is about 20 km from the city. The word "Thotlakonda" means "hill well" which is evident in this area. It is considered that Gautama Buddha lived here thousands of years ago with his disciples and left the area due to religious distress. There are freelance guides who can explain the historical importance of this area in detail. The area was renovated by the Archaeological Department of India although ruins and remnants of the original Buddhist monastery can still be found.

Scenic place to visit. The beach view is awesome better than Vizag RK beach. The sunrise is something which you should not miss.