🛕 Explore the 2000-Year-Old Buddhist Wonder – Bojjannakonda, Vizag
If you’re planning a visit to Visakhapatnam (Vizag) and love exploring ancient heritage, you must include Bojjannakonda in your itinerary. Nestled in the peaceful village of Sankaram near Anakapalle, this serene Buddhist site takes you back over 2,000 years to a time of monks, meditation, and stone-carved spirituality.
I visited the site on a quiet morning, and the silence, combined with the gentle hill breeze and historical charm, created an experience I won’t forget. Let me take you through this underrated treasure of Andhra Pradesh.
📍 Where Is Bojjannakonda?
- Location: Sankaram village, 40 km from Visakhapatnam (near Anakapalle)
- How to reach: Best accessed by car or auto from Vizag – about 1.5 hours drive
- Entry Fee: Very minimal (₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners – subject to change)
🏯 What Makes Bojjannakonda Special?
This hill site is home to ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, stupas, chaityas, and monastic complexes. It dates back to the 3rd century BCE and reflects the transition of Buddhism from Hinayana to Mahayana traditions.
- The hilltop stupa gives panoramic views of the countryside
- Peaceful surroundings make it a great spot for meditation and slow walks
- Rich carvings and inscriptions reveal the lives of monks who lived and taught here
The nearby site Lingalakonda also contains relics and caves and is often visited together with Bojjannakonda.
📜 Historical Significance
Bojjannakonda is one of the oldest Buddhist excavation sites in South India. Archaeologists have found coins, seals, terracotta figures, and pottery that trace back to Satavahana and early Andhra rulers.
- The name Bojjannakonda comes from ‘Bojja’ (a local version of Buddha)
- This site is believed to have been a Buddhist learning and meditation center for centuries
📸 Things to See at the Site
- Main cave with Buddha statue: Carved directly into the rock
- Rock-cut steps: Leading to the summit stupa
- Mini caves and viharas: Possibly used for monk residences
- Scenic views: From the top, the hills and rice fields stretch endlessly
🧘 Best Time to Visit
- October to February: Ideal weather and great for photography
- Early mornings: Best for soft sunlight and fewer crowds
🧳 Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes – some stairs and uphill paths
- No shops or cafes nearby – carry water and snacks
- Respect the heritage – avoid touching or climbing on the carvings
- Photography is allowed, but drones may require permission
🌄 Perfect for Weekend Getaways
If you’re in Vizag or planning a weekend trip, this is a perfect day outing. Combine Bojjannakonda with visits to:
- Simhachalam Temple
- Kondakarla Ava Lake
- Rushikonda Beach or Yarada Beach for sunset
📌 Final Thoughts
Bojjannakonda isn’t just a tourist spot — it’s a peaceful reminder of India’s ancient wisdom, spiritual past, and artistic brilliance. Unlike crowded temples or beaches, it offers a quiet experience that lingers in your memory.
If you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or just someone who enjoys offbeat travel, this place is worth the visit. Have you been to Bojjannakonda? Share your experience or questions below!
