For a coastal outing from Visakhapatnam, Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex offers a look at the remains of an ancient Buddhist monastic site above the Bay of Bengal. It is an archaeological hilltop near Mangamaripeta.
- Setting: A hill near Mangamaripeta, 128 metres above sea level.
- From Visakhapatnam: About 15 km along Beach Road toward Bheemunipatnam.
- What remains: A Mahastupa, votive stupas, viharas, a pillared hall and stone pathways.
- Entry: Confirm current access and ticket details before setting out.
What the archaeological site contains
Thotlakonda’s excavated remains and finds date from between the 3rd century B.C. and the 3rd century A.D. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism brochure describes a complex that includes a Mahastupa, votive stupas, a Silamandapa, viharas and stone pathways.
The site’s name is associated with rock-cut cisterns in the hill; nine were cut into the rock. The Visakhapatnam district administration describes 26 structures belonging to three phases. Exposed remains include a pillared hall, sculptured pillars, stupas and viharas.
Finds from the site include Roman and Satavahana coins, Brahmi label inscriptions, miniature-stupa and stone-railing fragments, sculptural panels depicting Buddhapadas, and red-ware sherds. These finds help convey the range of activity represented by the archaeological remains.
How do you get from central Visakhapatnam to Thotlakonda?
From Daspalla Executive Court, drive about 10 minutes to Visakhapatnam city centre, then follow Beach Road toward Bheemunipatnam; Thotlakonda is about 15 km from the city.
The district administration also lists an APTDC Vizag City Tour that includes Thotlakonda and Rushikonda Beach. Tour schedules and fares can change, so check the Andhra Pradesh Tourism official site before you go. For another Visakhapatnam outing, Kailasagiri’s ropeway, road access and views are covered in a separate planning guide.
What is the hilltop setting like?
Thotlakonda stands 128 metres above sea level and overlooks the Bay of Bengal. Its elevated position gives the site a broad coastal outlook alongside the archaeological remains.
Rushikonda Beach is another named stop in the area: the district administration places it 8 km from Visakhapatnam and describes swimming and windsurfing as possible there. It is included with Thotlakonda on the APTDC city tour. For a separate coastal visit, Tenneti Park access and views are another Visakhapatnam planning topic.
Entry, hours and site etiquette
Current entry arrangements and opening hours should be confirmed before your visit. Access and ticket details can change, so check the official site before you go.
Opening hours
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00–17:00
- Sunday: 8:00–18:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Thotlakonda is an archaeological complex, so stay on established paths and avoid touching or moving the remains. The site’s exposed structures include stupas, pillars and other fragile archaeological features.
FAQs
Where is Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex?
It is on a hill near Mangamaripeta, about 15 km from Visakhapatnam along Beach Road toward Bheemunipatnam.
What can you see at Thotlakonda?
The complex includes a Mahastupa, votive stupas, a Silamandapa, viharas and stone pathways, as well as rock-cut cisterns.
Can Thotlakonda be combined with Rushikonda Beach?
Yes. The APTDC Vizag City Tour includes both Thotlakonda and Rushikonda Beach. Check current tour details before planning around it.