Historically, Srikakulam is a part of Kalinga kingdom which was ruled by the kings of Eastern Ganga Dynasty for more than 800 years from 6th to 14th Centuries A.D. During the early centuries and even before Christ Buddhism flourished here and the excavations of Salihundam, Jagathimetta and Danthapuri reveal that the people enjoyed rich cultural life and that they were peace loving.
PLACES TO VISIT IN SRIKAKULAM DISTRICT
Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple - Arasavalli
The famous Sun God Temple situated in Arasavalli Village which is at a distance of about 1 K.M. east of Srikakulam Town in Andhra Pradesh head quarters of the coastal district in Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the ancient and all among two sun God temples in our Country.
Srimukhalingam
Srimukhalingam lies on the banks of Vamsadhara River in Srikakulam District and is 48 KM north of Srikakulam town. It was erstwhile capital of Ganga Kings. Major point of attraction here is the Sri Mukhalingeswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Srikurmam
Srikurmam is a unique famous temple in the world situated at a distance of about 18 kms to the southeast of Srikakulam town. The village Srikurmam derive of its name from the temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Avathara of Srikurmam viz., the Avathara of a tortoise, and hence the deity is called Srikurmanatha.
Kalingapatnam
Kalingapatnam Beach is situated 30 kms from Srikakulam. This scenic spot was an ancient sea port and European merchants resided here during the regime of the East India Company.
Telineelapuram
Telineelapuram and Telukunchi are well known bird sanctuaries. Painted storks and pelicans from Siberia migrate to these sanctuaries every year to nest and breed.
Salihundam
This village shot into prominence because excavations revealed the existence of an ancient Buddhist settlement. Situated 18 Kms from Srikakulam on the banks of the river Vamsadhara, a maha stupa, votive stupas, chaityas, platforms and viharas have been unearthed here with inscriptions dating back to the 2nd century A.D.
Ravivalasa
It is about 5kms from Tekkali. Sri Endala Mallikarjuna Swamy is the deity. On Maha Sivaratri and Kartika Mondays large gathering devotees worship this deity.
Sangam
It is 56kms from Srikakulam. Nagavali, Swarnam Mukhi and Vegavati confluence takes place here. So it is called Sangam. One of the five lingas Sangameswara is here.
Pondur
It is 21kms from Srikakulam. It is famous for fine Khadi. With eye extracting designs they are women on hand spun spindles.
Danthavaripuri
Ancient Buddha stupas are present in this place. It is believed a place of Buddha religion and shiddhardas living place.
Mandasa
It is 26kms from Sompet and at foot points of Mahendragiri. Mahendra giri is the highest mountain range in South India.
Baruva
It is 109Km from Srikakulam. Baruva, a fishing and coastal port, is set amidst lush coconut groves and paddy fields. The famous temples are of Sri Kotilingeswara Swamy and Janardanaswamy.
Kaviti
The coastal belt around Kaviti has extensive plantations of coconut, cashew and jack. The area is delightfully scenic. Here are the deities of Chintamani Ammavaru and Sri Sita Rama Swamy.
Dr.B.R.Ambedkar University
The University is located at Etcherla, Srikakulam District, Andhra Prdesh, India abutting the National Highway 5 (Chennai to Kolkata), exactly 95 Kms away from Visakhapatnam towards Kolkata. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Srikakulam is well connected to Visakhapatnam City which in turn is well connected by all means of transportation. Srikakulam Road is the nearest railway station which is around 10 Kms to Campus. The University is located in a campus extending over 29 acres of land at Etcherla. After the formation, the University acquired 123 acres of land.
The Srikakulam district is declared by the Centre as well as the State Government as backward area with 80 percent of the population living in the rural areas with disadvantaged sections of population. Srikakulam also have famous Churches, Musjids (Jamia Masjid), industrial areas (World famous cashew factories are there at Palasa of Srikakulam).
