Thotlakonda

Thotlakonda is an ancient Buddhist monastery located on a hilltop overlooking the Bay of Bengal in Visakhapatnam district. The site contains stone structures including multiple stupas, votive platforms, monastic cells, kitchen facilities, and communal dining areas.

The monastery dates to around 300 BCE and served as a center for Theravada Buddhism in the ancient region. The ruins remained unknown until 1976, when an aerial survey by the Indian Navy led to their discovery and subsequent excavation.

The monastery showcases Buddhist architectural traditions through its stupas, votive platforms, and communal dining halls that reflect monastic life from that era. These structures tell the story of how followers lived and worshipped at this location centuries ago.

Arrive early in the morning with plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site has few facilities and heat builds up quickly during midday. The steep terrain makes proper footwear essential for a safe visit.

The location is home to nearly 90 bird species, including the white-bellied sea eagle, making it valuable for both history and nature. This overlapping protection creates a rare combination of archaeological and ecological interest.