Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Vijayawada diaries: Kondapalli Fort – a treasure house of medieval history

During my recent visit to Vijayawada, I had a chance to visit Kondapalli town which is synonymous with the manufacture of wooden toys.  But beyond toys, the town also houses an ancient medieval fort.  Located about 25 km from Vijayawada to the west of the city, the fort is located atop of a hill.  The… Continue reading Vijayawada diaries: Kondapalli Fort – a treasure house of medieval history

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Photoessay: Undavalli caves, Vijayawada: splendid rock cut architecture

The bustling city of Vijayawada offers several interesting sights spanning nature, history, religion and culture.  Arguably one of the best attractions of this city are the Undavalli caves located 6 km from the city centre.  It is also an important Buddhist site just like the others sites in the state. The caves are one of the… Continue reading Photoessay: Undavalli caves, Vijayawada: splendid rock cut architecture

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Amaravati: an important Buddhist site in Andhra Pradesh

As mentioned in my previous post on Ghantasala, the southern state of Andhra Pradesh has had a profound influence of Buddhism.  There are several theories that believe that Lord Buddha himself visited Andhra Pradesh when He gave sermons at Amaravati during the reign of King Suchandra.  Buddhism spread in a big way during the reign of… Continue reading Amaravati: an important Buddhist site in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Photoessay: Ghantasala – a centre of Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh

The southern state of Andhra Pradesh is a treasure house when it comes to ancient Buddhist sites.  With an extremely significant and a deep-rooted influence of Buddhism, the state boasts of close to 150 Buddhist sites with new ones being discovered regularly. While one would normally associate Buddhism with Sanchi or Bodh Gaya, a Buddhist… Continue reading Photoessay: Ghantasala – a centre of Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Veerabhadra temple, Lepakshi: a picture of architectural splendour

Given India’s rich cultural history and diverse religious beliefs, temples have always been an integral part of our ethos and culture.  Exquisite temples that are an epitome of grandeur have been built by Indian rulers since time immemorial.  A travel to any nook and corner of the country is sure to reveal architectural gems in… Continue reading Veerabhadra temple, Lepakshi: a picture of architectural splendour