Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a coastal city in Andhra Pradesh, known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and pleasant weather. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, here’s a quick guide to help you make the most of your trip.
Climate: Visakhapatnam experiences a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers can get quite hot, reaching temperatures of up to 40°C, while the winter months are more comfortable, with temperatures around 25°C. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, cooling the city but increasing humidity.
Languages Spoken: The primary language spoken is Telugu, but you’ll find that many people understand and speak Hindi and English, especially in tourist areas. Knowing a few basic Telugu phrases can be helpful, but communication in English should be easy in most places.
Tipping: Tipping is a common practice in hotels, restaurants, and for services like porters or tour guides. A 10% tip is standard, though it is not mandatory. Tipping taxi or auto-rickshaw drivers is not required but is appreciated for good service.
Dressing: Light and breathable clothing is recommended, especially during the hot summer months. Smart casual attire is suitable for dining out in the evenings. If you plan to visit religious sites, ensure your clothing is modest—covering shoulders and legs.
Photography: Photography is allowed in most places, but some locations, like government offices, military sites, or temples, may have restrictions. Always check for signs or ask permission before taking pictures in sensitive areas.
Buying Liquor: Liquor is available in licensed stores, hotels, and restaurants in Visakhapatnam. While it is generally easy to find, there are occasional dry days, especially during national holidays or religious festivals, when alcohol sales may be restricted.
Food: Visakhapatnam offers a wide variety of coastal Andhra cuisine. Seafood is a specialty, with dishes like fish curry, prawns, and crab being popular. Street food such as punugulu (fried dumplings) and bhajis (fried snacks) are commonly enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Health and Safety: The city is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to drink only bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses. Also, during the monsoon, mosquitoes can be more prevalent, so it’s a good idea to use mosquito repellent. There are hospitals and pharmacies in the city for medical emergencies.
Banking Hours: Banks in Visakhapatnam usually operate from 10 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Friday. Some private banks are open on Saturdays, though hours may be shorter. ATMs are widely available, and most shops and restaurants accept debit and credit cards.
Transportation: Transportation in Visakhapatnam is convenient, with auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses being common options. For more comfort and convenience, app-based ride services like Ola and Uber are also available. Buses are an affordable choice but may not be the easiest for tourists to navigate.
With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere, Visakhapatnam is a wonderful destination to explore and enjoy.