a map of the 50 states The monasteries flourished during the Theravada period (Bavikonda, from the 3rd century BC to the 3r

The monasteries flourished during the Theravada period (Bavikonda, from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD, and Thotlakonda, from the 2nd century BC to 2nd century AD) and had votive stupas, a map of the 50 states congregation halls, chaitya-grihas, viharas and refectories. Today only the ruins of these massive monastic compounds remain, but they re impressive nonetheless, with a placid, almost magical, air and sea views to meditate on. Bavikonda and Thotlakonda are 14km and 16km, respectively, from Vizag on Bheemli a map of the 50 states Beach Rd. Vizag s autorickshaw drivers charge around 400 return to see both.

Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation a map of the 50 states (APTDC; %24-hr info 23450444; www.aptdc.in; h7am-8.30pm) Bashirbagh (Map p898 ; %23298456; a map of the 50 states NSF Shakar Bhavan, opposite Police Control Room); Secunderabad (Map p896 ; %27893100; a map of the 50 states Yatri Nivas Hotel, Sardar Patel Rd); Tankbund Rd (Map p898 ; %65581555; h10.30am-5pm) Organises tours.

The best beach for swimming is at Rushikonda, 10km north of town, one of the nicest stretches of coast you ll fi nd this side of India. Weekends get busy and take on a carnival-like atmosphere. Surfers keen for a paddle can rent decent boards from local surf pioneer, Melville, at SAAP