Machilipatnam

Being a land rich in cultural heritage, Machilipatnam has to boast off to its acclaim many handicrafts that originated from near the port town and which have been given the geographical indication of Andhra Pradesh, like the Machilipatnam Kalamkari which is the dyed block-painting of fabric, done by hand. Kuchipudi, as a classical Indian dance form originated just 25 kilometres from Machilipatnam, in the city of Kuchipudi. There are also many small-scale industries here, particularly that of gold fashion jewellery - thus, making the land one which has a supremely cultural bent of life. In fact, Bandar Laddu (also known as Tokkudu Laddu) is a famous and signature sweet from Machilipatnam that is made of gram flour (besan) and ghee and is known across the globe for its delectable taste and sweetness - making even the cuisines of Machilipatnam very special.

The history of Machilipatnam, begins from the 3rd Century B.C. when the city was called Maisolos, by Ptolemy - an ancient Greek Geographer. It was the period of the Satavahana Kings and since the city was situated at the mouth of the River Krishna, right off the Coromandel Coast - it had been the centre of flourishing sea trade, known for its Muslin, a thin plain weave cotton cloth, which also got its name from this city. In the year 1478, the city went into the hands of Muhammad Shah Bahanami II - after which a succession of rulers took hold of this land, right from Raja Krishna Devaraya to Kings of Odisha like Golconda and Quli Qutb Shah. Also around this time, many European traders like the Portuguese, the Dutch and thereafter, the British followed by the French set up their trade centres near this port. The main items to be traded and exported were muslin cloth, spices, diamonds, kalamkari fabrics and turmeric. Much later, the Golconda Kings were defeated and the Emperor of Delhi conquered Masulipatnam. In the year 1779, a major cyclone hit the coast of Masulipatnam and more than 200,000 were killed. After many upheavals, the city was given recognition and the British East India Company set up their first trading post here before it got incorporated into the periphery of Northern Circars - which was a division of British India’s Madras presidency.

Machilipatnam, for the longest of times, was also known as Masulipatnam and Masula Kamaan (meaning fish gate) and is an old port town (patnam), the two words must have come together to form what was once known as Masulipatnam. The place was also once known as Bandar (Bunder) which means Port in Persian and literally translates to Bandh (Enclosed), D?r (Gate). Locally, people also call it Brundaavanapuram.

Machelipatnam being located in Andhra Pradesh mainly features the authentic Andhra cuisine. The food is a bit spicy but delicious at the same time. Do not forget to try out the famous Sheermala and Heleem while in the town.
For vegetarians, sambar, idli and dosa are a good option. Double ka meetha, khurbani ka meetha, coconut laddu and semiya payasam are the popular sweet dishes that are must try.
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Begin your trip in Machelipatnam with an early rise and heartwarming breakfast. Now all set for a one-day excursion, you first stop of the day is an ancient Panduranga Swamy Temple built over a huge area of six acres. Next, try and cover the three more popular shrines of Sai Maharaj Devalayam, the famous temple of Lord Shiva at Dattashram and lastly Machelipatnam Church. Break for lunch in between to enjoy the lip smacking food in the town. Last stop should be Manginapudi Beach where beneath the mesmerising view of the sunset, unwind yourself with swimming and relaxing. Also, visit the lighthouse on the coast of the beach. Conclude your amazing trip to this captivating beach town with warm dinner at hotel and star gazing at night.

The top places near to Machelipatnam are Guntur which is 75 km from Machelipatnam, Vijayawada which is located 63 km from Machelipatnam, Hyderabad which is located 312 km from Machelipatnam, Rajahamundry which is located 117 km from Machelipatnam, Konaseema which is located 110 km from Machelipatnam

The top things to do in Machelipatnam are Manginapudi Beach, Panduranga Swamy Temple, The Lighthouse, Temples of Lord Shiva, Shopping in Machelipatnam, Dattashram. You can see all the places to visit in Machelipatnam here

Machelipatnam is well connected to the rest of India by rail and road. Regular rail and bus services ply to and fro the city of Machelipatnam; buses being operated both by private and government owners, such as Andhra Pradesh / Seemandhra State Road Transport Corporation. There is no direct flight connectivity, however, to Machelipatnam. Vijayawada airport at Gannavaram, Vijayawada, is the nearest airport to Machilipatnam, around 60 km away from the same.
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Machelipatnam being located in Andhra Pradesh mainly features the authentic Andhra cuisine. The food is a bit spicy but delicious at the same time. Do not forget to try out the famous Sheermala and Heleem while in the town.
For vegetarians, sambar, idli and dosa are a good option. Double ka meetha, khurbani ka meetha, coconut laddu and semiya payasam are the popular sweet dishes that are must try.
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Summers in Machelipatnam are extremely hot and humid proving to be unpleasant for tourism purpose. The temperature during the season often spikes up to 42 degrees Celcius with April and June being the hottest months. Winters, however, are moderate and extremely pleasant. The figure during winters dwindles between 20 and 30 degrees Celcius. Hence, the best time to visit the town is between the months of October and March. Avoid travelling during monsoon as the area receives heavy rainfall and frequently hit by cyclones originating at the Bay of Bengal.
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It might be difficult to find good North Indian food. The town is not very well developed.

Less crowded. Pristine beaches with a calm environment. Known for its Kalamkari textiles.