3 Days in Vijayawada for a Spicy Food Trip

Vijayawada is a paradise for food lovers, especially if you enjoy bold Andhra flavors. Over three days, you'll dive into fiery curries, crispy dosas, and some of the best biryani in South India. I've spent years eating my way through the city, and this itinerary hits all the must-try spots while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable.

Andhra Pradesh, andhra-pradesh
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Tasting the legendary Gongura mutton at a local mess
Watching fresh idlis being made at a bustling breakfast spot
Sipping Irani chai with Osmania biscuits at a historic cafe
Exploring the vibrant street food scene near Benz Circle

Best Time to Visit

OctoberNovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Vijayawada

Start your Vijayawada food journey with the city's most iconic attractions and flavors, from spicy Andhra meals to serene riverfront views.

Activities

Breakfast at Ramakrishna Tiffins

Kick off your day with Vijayawada's legendary breakfast spot. Try their fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and the famous pesarattu (green gram dosa) served with tangy ginger chutney. The place is always buzzing with locals, giving you a real taste of the city's morning energy.

Ramakrishna Tiffins, Beside Prakasam Barrage, Vijayawada7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (go early to avoid the rush)₹50-₹150 per person
Tips:
  • Try their special 'upma' if you're feeling adventurous
  • Carry cash as they don't accept digital payments
Explore Prakasam Barrage and Bhavani Island
Explore Prakasam Barrage and Bhavani Island

Walk off your breakfast with a stroll along the Prakasam Barrage, offering stunning views of the Krishna River. Then take a short ferry ride (about 15 minutes) to Bhavani Island, where you can relax by the water or try some water sports. The island has shaded areas perfect for escaping the midday heat.

Prakasam Barrage, Vijayawada to Bhavani Island9:30 AM - 12:30 PM (best before it gets too hot)₹20 for barrage entry, ₹100-₹200 for ferry and island activities
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bargain for water sports prices on the island
Andhra Thali Lunch at Andhra Spice

Dive into Vijayawada's fiery culinary heritage with an authentic Andhra thali. Andhra Spice serves up a spectacular spread with unlimited refills - expect tangy pulihora (tamarind rice), spicy chicken curry, creamy dal, and their signature gongura pickle. The meal ends with sweet payasam to cool your palate.

Andhra Spice, MG Road, Vijayawada1:00 PM - 2:30 PM (peak lunch hours, but worth the wait)₹250-₹400 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for 'medium spicy' if you're not used to Andhra heat
  • Try the buttermilk - it helps with digestion

Must Try Foods

Andhra Chicken Curry
Pesarattu (Green Gram Dosa)
Gongura Pickle
Pulihora (Tamarind Rice)
Royyala Iguru (Prawn Curry)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Vijayawada Junction (2 km from city center, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
PNBS (Pandit Nehru Bus Station) - buses every 10-15 mins to major points
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and Ola/Uber widely available; autos are cheaper for short distances

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Vijayawada

Dive deeper into Vijayawada's culture with historic temples, bustling markets, and iconic local flavors.

Activities

Visit Kanaka Durga Temple
Visit Kanaka Durga Temple

Start your day with a spiritual visit to the famous Kanaka Durga Temple, perched on Indrakeeladri Hill. The temple offers stunning views of the Krishna River and a peaceful morning atmosphere. Don’t miss the special darshan if you’re visiting during festival season.

Indrakeeladri Hill, Vijayawada6:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best for avoiding crowds)Free (donations accepted)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
  • Try the prasadam (temple offering) if available
Explore Besant Road for Street Food

Head to Besant Road, a food lover’s paradise, for a mid-morning snack. The street is packed with stalls serving Vijayawada’s famous Punugulu (crispy fried lentil dumplings) and Dosa with spicy chutneys. The energy here is contagious, and the flavors are unforgettable.

Besant Road, Vijayawada10:30 AM - 11:30 AM₹50-₹150 per person
Tips:
  • Try the Punugulu with coconut chutney
  • Carry cash as most stalls don’t accept cards
Stroll Through Rajiv Gandhi Park
Stroll Through Rajiv Gandhi Park

After the hustle of the temple and street food, unwind at Rajiv Gandhi Park. This well-maintained green space is perfect for a leisurely walk, with a mini-zoo, musical fountain, and plenty of shaded spots to relax. It’s a great place to soak in local life.

Near Benz Circle, Vijayawada4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (cooler in the evening)₹10 entry fee
Tips:
  • Visit the toy train if traveling with kids
  • The fountain show starts around 6:30 PM if you stay longer

Must Try Foods

Punugulu
Gongura Chicken (sorrel leaves curry)
Royyala Iguru (prawn fry)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Vijayawada Junction (3 km, 15 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Benz Circle Bus Stop (frequent buses to all major areas)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs like Ola and Uber are easily available, or auto-rickshaws for shorter distances

Day 3

Hidden Gems of Vijayawada

A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and savoring local flavors in Vijayawada.

Activities

Morning at Moghalrajpuram Caves
Morning at Moghalrajpuram Caves

Start your day with a visit to the ancient Moghalrajpuram Caves, a hidden gem dating back to the 5th century. These rock-cut caves feature beautiful carvings and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quiet morning. The caves are dedicated to Lord Shiva and offer a glimpse into Vijayawada's rich history.

Moghalrajpuram, near Benz Circle8:00 AM - 10:00 AMFree
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there are some steps to climb
  • Visit early to avoid the heat and crowds
Breakfast at Sri Balaji Dosa Center

Head to Sri Balaji Dosa Center, a local favorite known for its crispy dosas and flavorful chutneys. Try their special 'Pesarattu' (green gram dosa) or the classic 'Masala Dosa'—both are must-haves. The place is simple but packed with locals, giving you a true taste of Vijayawada's breakfast culture.

Near Benz Circle, Moghalrajpuram10:00 AM - 10:45 AM₹50-₹150 per person
Tips:
  • Go early as it gets crowded by mid-morning
  • Try their ginger chutney—it's a standout
Explore Undavalli Caves
Explore Undavalli Caves

A short drive from the city, the Undavalli Caves are a stunning example of Indian rock-cut architecture. These 7th-century caves feature intricate carvings, including a massive reclining statue of Lord Vishnu. The caves are set against a backdrop of lush greenery, making it a serene spot to explore.

Undavalli, about 8 km from Vijayawada11:30 AM - 1:30 PM₹10 per person
Tips:
  • Carry water as it can get warm inside the caves
  • Hire a local guide to learn about the carvings
Lunch at Ulavacharu

Wrap up your trip with a hearty Andhra meal at Ulavacharu, known for its rustic flavors and traditional dishes. Their 'Gongura Mamsam' (mutton with sorrel leaves) and 'Royyala Iguru' (prawn curry) are standout dishes. The ambiance is cozy, with a homely feel that complements the food perfectly.

Near PVP Square, Vijayawada1:30 PM - 2:30 PM₹300-₹600 per person
Tips:
  • Try their 'Pappu Charu'—a tangy lentil soup that's a local favorite
  • Portions are generous, so order wisely

Must Try Foods

Pesarattu with ginger chutney
Gongura Mamsam
Royyala Iguru

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Vijayawada Junction (2 km from city center, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Benz Circle Bus Stop (frequent buses to Undavalli and city routes)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs (Ola/Uber) and autos are easily available throughout the city

Travel Tips

Carry tissues or napkins - many local eateries don't provide them
Ask for 'less spicy' if you're not used to Andhra heat levels
Visit Krishna riverfront stalls in the evening for the best atmosphere
Cash works better than cards at most traditional food joints

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