Visakhapatnam Buddhist circuit back on track

Once home to ancient Buddhist monasteries and spiritual learning, Visakhapatnam is now preparing to reclaim its lost glory. The city, already a magnet for nature lovers with its golden beaches and lush hills, is now setting sights on becoming a global spiritual and cultural hub. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department has revived plans for a Buddhist Circuit, a Rs. 2.5 crore project designed to connect centuries-old monasteries across the state with world-class tourist amenities. Officials have confirmed that a Request for Proposal (RFP) is being prepared, aiming to attract experienced firms to develop and maintain this heritage circuit.

From Bavi Konda to Amaravathi

The proposed circuit will link Visakhapatnam’s Bavi Konda, Srikakulam’s Salihundam, Eluru’s Guntupalli, Palnadu’s Amaravathi, and Bapatla’s Bhattiprolu all ancient centers of Buddhist learning and architecture. Along with highlighting their spiritual heritage, tourists will also be guided to nearby attractions. For instance, visitors to Bavi Konda will be offered curated tours of Kailasagiri, RK Beach, Rushikonda, Bheemili, and the Simhachalam Temple. Similarly, every stop on the circuit will be paired with surrounding tourist spots to give travelers a complete cultural and recreational experience.

Spiritual tourism with modern touch

The selected firm under the project will not only be tasked with maintaining cleanliness and providing basic amenities at the monasteries but will also be responsible for organizing bi-annual meetings with Buddhist communities and meditation sessions for visitors. Tourism officials believe that this initiative will not only boost foreign footfall but also position Visakhapatnam as a center for executive tourism, leisure, and spirituality. “The Buddhist Circuit will give a new identity to Andhra Pradesh on the world tourism map,” said a senior tourism official.

Back on track

Though the Buddhist Circuit was conceptualized years ago, the plan had failed to move forward. Now, with a fresh push, the project is gaining momentum once again. Authorities expect the Expression of Interest (EoI) to be floated soon, paving the way for the long-awaited revival of Andhra’s Buddhist heritage. With natural beauty on one hand and spiritual heritage on the other, Visakhapatnam is gearing up to welcome the world not just to its beaches and hills, but to the silent whispers of its ancient monasteries.