Pavurallakonda Images
Pavurallakonda, also known as Narasimha Swamy Konda, is a popular tourist destination near Bheemunipatnam, about 29 kilometres north of Visakhapatnam Railway Station. At a height of 150 metres above sea level, it is the highest point in the area. Pavuralakonda translates to “Pigeon Hill.” (Pavurala means pigeons in Telugu, and konda means hill) However, it is also known as Pavuralakonda because of the availability of white stone in the hillock. Pavuralakonda is 25 kilometres west of Bheemili and west of Visakhapatnam.
It’s a Buddhist monastery complex on a ruined hilltop. From the 3rd century BCE to the 2nd century CE, the ruins show evidence of human habitation. It’s one of Andhra Pradesh’s largest Buddhist monasteries. It’s possible that Hinayana Buddhism flourished.
Excavation of the Pavuralakonda relics revealed two Brahmi label inscriptions, vihara foundations, circular chaityas, votive stupas, halls, and other relics. The site yielded beads, polished ware, coins, and other artefacts. Nearly 14-16 rock cuts or cisterns were discovered, which were used to collect fresh water for the Buddhist devotees who used to live on the hillock site. The archaeology department is working on excavations and restoration projects.
Pavuralakonda: Tourist Place
The Gosthani river flows close to Pavurallakonda’s location. The site is similar to Buddhist sites such as Bavikonda and Thotlakonda in Visakhapatnam’s district.
After UNESCO declared Bavikonda, Thotla konda, Pavurallakonda, and Bojjannakonda as heritage sites, the Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage has appealed to the authorities to ensure better protection and restoration of these Buddhist sites. This will allow for a steady flow of funds while also providing employment opportunities for Visakhapatnam citizens.
The Pavurallakonda Buddhist heritage sites will be reinvented by the Visakhapatnam district tourism circuit, which will be built on the hill of Pavurallakonda. The vehicle approach road has already been closed, and weeds are trying to grow everywhere.
Nearby Places to Pavuralakonda
- Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
- Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary
- Araku Valley
- Simhachalam
- Ramakrishna Beach
- INS Kursura Submarine Museum
- Rushikonda Beach
- Thotlakonda
- Bavikonda
- Sankaram Buddhist Excavations
- Ananthagiri
- Etikoppaka
- Tyda Nature Camp
Best Way To Reach Pavuralakonda
The nearest station is Visakhapatnam Railway Station. From Vizag, APSRTC buses and private vehicles are available for road transportation.
Timings To Visit Pavuralakonda
Pavuralakonda is open to its visitors from 09:00 AM to 08:30 AM.
Location Map For Pavurallakonda
