Narasimha Swamy Konda, also known as Pavuralakonda, is a prominent tourist site near Bheemunipatnam, about 29 kilometers north of Visakhapatnam Railway Station. It is the highest point in the area, at 150 meters above sea level. Pavuralakonda means "Pigeon Hill" in English. (Pavurala means pigeons in Telugu, and konda means hill.)

However, because of the availability of white stone on the hillock, it is also called Pavuralakonda. Pavuralakonda is located 25 kilometers west of Bheemili and 150 kilometers west of Visakhapatnam.

On a damaged mountaintop, there is a Buddhist monastic complex. The ruins exhibit indications of human occupation from the 3rd century BCE to the 2nd century CE. It is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Andhra Pradesh. It's probable that Hinayana Buddhism flourished throughout this time period.

Two Brahmi label inscriptions, vihara foundations, round chaityas, votive stupas, halls, and other relics were discovered during the excavation of the Pavuralakonda relics. Beads, polished ware, coins, and other artifacts were discovered at the site.

There were around 14-16 rock cuttings or cisterns uncovered, which were used to gather fresh water for the Buddhist devotees who lived on the mound location. Excavations and restoration operations are being carried out by the archaeology department.

Tourist Attraction Pavuralakonda

Pavuralakonda is located near the Gosthani River. The site is similar to Buddhist sites in Visakhapatnam's district, such as Bavikonda and Thotlakonda.

The Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage has urged the authorities to ensure greater protection and repair of these Buddhist temples after UNESCO designated Bavikonda, Thotlakonda, Pavurallakonda, and Bojjannakonda as heritage sites.

This would provide a consistent flow of revenue while also creating job possibilities for Visakhapatnam residents.

The Visakhapatnam district tourism circuit, which will be created on the hill of Pavuralakonda, would reimagine the Buddhist heritage sites of Pavuralakonda. The vehicle approach route has already been shut down, and weeds are sprouting up everywhere.

Nearby Places to Pavuralakonda
There are a lot of tourist destinations near Pavuralakonda, among them are Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary. Araku Valley, Simhachalam, Ramakrishna Beach, INS Kursura Submarine Museum, Rushikonda Beach, Thotlakonda, Bavikonda and Sankaram Buddhist Excavations.

How to Get to Pavuralakonda
Visakhapatnam Railway Station is the closest station. Road transportation is available from Vizag by APSRTC buses and private vehicles.

When Should You Visit Pavuralakonda?
From 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., Pavuralakonda is open to the public.
By Yashaswini