It was 9.45 PM of 24th December 2008, the “Vishaka Special Train” started. We reached Vizag at 10.30 AM of 25th December 2008. “Where are we going to stay, boss?” we asked to our travel agent. “Wait my friends; you are going to stay near “Ramakrishna Beach” at “Raja Hamsa Guest House”, where you will get Bengali foods also”. Great and we really enjoyed at that guest house. The Beach is fabulous for having an “Adda” session. You will find every kind chaat masala and foods in the beach. We saw the fisherman also, giving their hearts out, to catch big fishes and crabs, and their style of fishing was just fantastic.
We took an auto and went to “Rushikonda Beach”, which is 10 Kms from there. “My Goodness”, what a beach it is. Probably, you will never find a sea beach in India, which is situated beside the Hills. We just enjoyed the Water Sports, conducted by local boats and APTDC. Then we nose –dived in the waves, just like the small kids.
Now, beach tour is over. Where to go? Just 15 minutes from there, a place known as “Kailashgiri”. You have to pay Rs. 2/- for entry fee and Rs. 55/- for 2 rides on the Rope-Way. That Rope-Way will take you to the “Kailashgiri” park at the hill top, which is named after the “Shiv-Parvathi” idol.
Have you ever seen a “Submarine”? Don’t worry man! There is a “Kurusura” Submarine Museum, which will show all the details of a submarine. It is not so easy to stay inside a Submarine, boss. It is very tough. Hats Off! To those Navy Commandos, who have ever stayed in a submarine?
Vizag City Outskirts is also good. From the city, you have to go around 16 Kms, to visit the “Simachalam Temple”, which is one of the oldest temples of South India, since 11th Century. The architecture is well carved and maintained. A Must -Visit place for the devotees of God.
Yes, indeed it is true. We boarded the “Kirandul Express” at 6.45 AM, which goes to Jagdhalpur(Orissa Border), via Borra Caves and Araku Valley. But, if you do not have the reservation of your seats, then it’s a nightmare journey for you, unless you reach the 1st tunnel of that route at 8 AM. What is so funny about the tunnel? Arrey Boss, it’s a real thrilled journey. You have to pass through 39 tunnels, out of which 23 are big tunnels, which take around 3 minutes to cross. And you will enjoy the shouting of children and even the older ones.
Get down at Borra Caves. Visit it. It is the largest cave of India. The Cave has some historical importance. That, we have not asked anyone. The “Gosthani” river just flows beside it. Do not forget to visit the “Shiv Idol” temple, which is at the top most part of the cave.
After Borra Caves, visit some waterfalls, Coffee Plantations and Shooting Point. These places are really like “Jannat”, because of its scenic beauty.
Want to view the tribal museum. Hmm., yes indeed, that is there. Visit that, it is near the Araku Bus Stand only. Please do not forget to try out the archery competition. You will just love it.
So, what the hell are you thinking about? Just pack your bags, and visit VIZAG.