Bojjannakonda
Bojjannakonda and the adjacent Lingalakonda are two significant Buddhist rock-cut sites dating back to the 4th and 9th centuries AD. Located near the village of Sankaram, these hills house numerous monolithic stupas, rock-cut caves, and chaityas. The site represents all three phases of Buddhism: Hi nayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. The name Bojjannakonda is derived from "Buddina Konda," meaning the hill of the Buddhas. Archaeological excavations led by Alexander Rea in 1906 revealed gold coins from the Samudragupta era, indicating the site's historical importance. The main attraction is a large rock-cut stupa surrounded by smaller ones on different levels of the hill. It is a place of profound silence and spiritual energy, set amidst lush green paddy fields.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 HoursPlace Type:
Archaeological & ReligiousEntry Fees:
The entry fee is very nominal, typically 25 INR for Indian citizens and 300 INR for foreign tourists. Parking for two-wheelers is 10 INR and for four-wheelers is 30 INR. There are no extra charges for photography, but professional videography may require special permission from the ASI. ...The entry fee is very nominal, typically 25 INR for Indian citizens and 300 INR for foreign tourists. Parking for two-wheelers is 10 INR and for four-wheelers is 30 INR. There are no extra charges for photography, but professional videography may require special permission from the ASI.Timing:
The site is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is in the early morning (9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM) to avoid the midday heat. It takes about two hours to cover both hills comfortably at a steady pace. ...The site is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is in the early morning (9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM) to avoid the midday heat. It takes about two hours to cover both hills comfortably at a steady pace.Special Events:
During Buddha Purnima (April/May), the site is visited by devotees and monks who perform special prayers and light candles. The World Tourism Day often sees heritage walks organized by the state tourism department to promote the site. Local school groups frequently visit for educational tours, tu...During Buddha Purnima (April/May), the site is visited by devotees and monks who perform special prayers and light candles. The World Tourism Day often sees heritage walks organized by the state tourism department to promote the site. Local school groups frequently visit for educational tours, turning the site into a center for history lessons.Best Photo Spots:
The view of the Mahastupa from the entrance gate, with the steps leading up, is the most iconic shot. The cluster of stupas on Lingalakonda during the "Golden Hour" of sunset provides a surreal, ethereal landscape. A close-up of the Seated Buddha inside the main cave captures the fine craftsmansh...The view of the Mahastupa from the entrance gate, with the steps leading up, is the most iconic shot. The cluster of stupas on Lingalakonda during the "Golden Hour" of sunset provides a surreal, ethereal landscape. A close-up of the Seated Buddha inside the main cave captures the fine craftsmanship of the 4th-century artisans. The top of the hill offers a 360-degree view of the Anakapalle valley, perfect for landscape panoramas.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Climb the ancient stone steps to reach the main stupa and enjoy the quiet, meditative atmosphere. Explore the various rock-cut caves and observe the intricate carvings of Buddha in different Mudras. Spend time at Lingalakonda to see the unique cluster of monolithic stupas carved across the hilltop. Bring a pair of binoculars to observe the details of the carvings on the higher reaches of the hill. Meditate in one of the ancient Viharas (monastic cells) to experience the lifestyle of the ancient monks. Take a guided tour if available to understand the historical significance of the Samudragupta coins found here. Capture the beautiful contrast between the dark grey rock-cut structures and the bright green paddy fields surrounding the site. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
It is famous for being one of the most prominent Buddhist heritage sites in South India, showcasing a transition between different Buddhist schools. The presence of Vajrayana (Tantric) elements in the later carvings makes it unique compared to other sites like Amaravati. It is also famous for the...It is famous for being one of the most prominent Buddhist heritage sites in South India, showcasing a transition between different Buddhist schools. The presence of Vajrayana (Tantric) elements in the later carvings makes it unique compared to other sites like Amaravati. It is also famous for the rare monolithic stupas that are carved entirely from the single rock of the hill. The site is a major destination for researchers studying the spread of Buddhism along the eastern coast of India. The panoramic view of the Anakapalle countryside from the top of the hill is also a major draw for tourists. -
Architecture:
The architecture is a magnificent example of rock-cut and structural forms typical of early Andhra Buddhism. The main stupa is carved from the living rock and features a brick-built upper portion. The hill is tiered with several meditation cells (viharas) and a prayer hall (chaitya) cut into the ...The architecture is a magnificent example of rock-cut and structural forms typical of early Andhra Buddhism. The main stupa is carved from the living rock and features a brick-built upper portion. The hill is tiered with several meditation cells (viharas) and a prayer hall (chaitya) cut into the hillside. The dimensions of the main hill rise about 50 meters, with steps carved directly into the stone leading to the summit. The adjacent Lingalakonda features hundreds of small rock-cut stupas that resemble Shiva Lingas from a distance. Intricate carvings of the seated Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and scenes from Buddhist mythology adorn the cave walls and pillars. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Visakhapatnam Airport (35 KM away) and take a taxi via the NH16.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Anakapalle, located 4 KM from the site; from there, autos are easily available.
By Road:... -
Near Tourist Places:
Simhachalam Temple (35 KM), Kondakarla Ava (20 KM), Etikoppaka Village (40 KM), Yarada Beach (45 KM), Dolphin's Nose (42 KM), Ramakrishna Beach (45 KM), Vuda Park (47 KM), Kailasagiri (50 KM), Ross Hill Church (44 KM), Anakapalle Jaggery Market (5 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Wear shoes with a good grip as the rock-cut steps can be slippery, especially during or after the rain. Carry a water bottle and some light snacks, as there are no food stalls or shops once you start climbing the hill. Respect the sanctity of the site; do not touch the ancient carvings or litter...
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