Unveiling the mysteries of the past

Andhra Pradesh holds an immense treasure of history and spirituality: Bavikonda Ancient Buddhist Monastery. Travel back in time to 3rd Century BC and discover this revered site's rich heritage as it once flourished as a centre for Buddhist learning and meditation with over 2000 monks present during its peak days; its very name, "Bavikonda", meaning 'Hill of Wells", speaks volumes as its numerous wells collected rainwater for its residents.

Bavikonda stands as a reminder of an era when wisdom and enlightenment flourished among its hills and valleys. Today, the site features a museum which displays artefacts excavated from this area; such as pottery pieces, coins and relics excavated from excavating this site itself. As a popular tourist attraction and history enthusiast destination it offers visitors an insight into Andhra Pradesh's rich cultural heritage.

The fragments of history

Bavikonda Buddhist Complex lies about 16 km north of Visakhapatnam's bustling city centre and boasts architectural splendour from its past. As you wander through its hilltop location, its sprawling grounds reveal architectural treasures like meditation halls, stupas, chaityas and grand assembly halls adorned with exquisite carvings and sculptures of brick and stone construction that recall a history filled with the teachings of Buddhism that once filled its airspace. The peaceful ambience echoes with whispers from history through with the surrounding teachings of Buddhism.

Stories of heritage and significance

Bavikonda holds not only historical but also cultural significance for India. Under the patronage of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, its protection and preservation for future generations has been ensured. Furthermore, UNESCO has designated Bavikonda alongside Thotlakonda, Pavuralakonda and Bojjannakonda as World Heritage sites to further showcase its significance on a global scale.

History enthusiasts flock to this location, featuring multiple stupas across an expansive area with numerous hills nearby and offering many trekking trails that lead to its summit and attract many hikers.

Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 05:00 PM

Activities to engage the soul

Bavikonda offers visitors looking for spiritual enlightenment and historical revelations a unique and immersive experience. Explore halls where monks once meditated, draw knowledge from a well-stocked library, or hike along one of its trekking trails that lead to its summit for an unparalleled blend of thrills and history. Capture memories within mesmerising ruins or timeless stupas which stand as silent witnesses of an earlier era.

Unveiling the neighbouring charms

Bavikonda welcomes visitors to explore its picturesque natural surroundings by unveiling nearby charms, such as Borra Caves with their intriguing stalactite and stalagmite formations, Rishikonda Beach's warm shores, or Dolphin Nose (rock formation which resembles leaping dolphin).