Any history lover should visit Nagarjunakonda at least once in a lifetime, especially if he is interested in Buddhism culture. 

If you are planning a tour to Nagarjunakonda, you must prepare yourself and gain some knowledge about the tradition and customs of this place. Nagarjunakonda is a religious and cultural center. However, for a nature passionate, the natural waterfalls and rich flora and fauna might also be an attraction. 

History of Nagarjukonda

Nagarjunakonda is a centre of Buddhist culture. Excavations yielded some priceless scholar inscriptions and writings, as Nagarjunakonda was filled with temples and monasteries. It is considered the third most important cultural centre of South India, and even the architecture of the newest buildings is traditional. The region declined after Rudrapurusa, the last king from the Ikshvaku family. Although excavations begun in 1927, there are still many things waiting to be discovered in Nagarjunakonda.

Tourism of Nagarjukonda

Nagarjunakonda is available by the State Highway. The nearest trains station Machela, 29 kilometers away. The ferry connects Nagarjunakonda with the mainland, and you shouldn’t miss this trip also. A Nagarjunakonda tour could include the dam, a short voyage to the Nagarjunakonda falls and a sightseeing of the blue Ethipothala lagoon that is filled with crocodiles. The protected area of Srisailam could also be included in your package tour, as this is the sanctuary for many endangered species such as tigers, panthers and crocodiles. The last place recommended for your itinerary is the Nallamalai Hills, a place of huge historical and cultural value. The Shiva temple is also opened for visitors, and you could also take some great pictures there.    

Another great historical place is the Nagarjunakonda dam. This is the highest masonry dam in the world, and it will surely astound you. It is also one of the largest man-made lakes, and a voyage with the boat is also mandatory for any tourist. The history of this dam is also fascinating, as the waters swept all the historical proves of the Hinduism and Buddhism coexistence away. However, the archeologist managed to save most of those relics, and you could also see them on an island in the middle of the lake Nagarjunakonda. Don’t forget to see the statue of Naga Mucalinda, snake that was protecting Buddha while he was meditating. It was carved in the 4^th century during the Ikshvaku dynasty.

Nagarjunakonda is accessible from the State Capital of Hyderabad. The nearest railroad station is Nagarjuna Sagar, located 20 km from Nagarjuna Sagar. Travel assistance and package tours are available in the city. Don’t miss the chance to have a talk with the locals, as you could also find out some more interesting things about this great vacation destination