We have heard about exotic locations like Miami, Mauritius, Maldives which are quite famous for their mesmerizing views. But what if we tell you that you can experience the same within India itself ? A lesser known part of India is Yanam. Not many of us are aware of its captivating beauty.
It is situated in the Union Territory of Puducherry, India. The district of Yanam is 30 km east of Andhra Pradesh. For around 200 years Yanam was a French colony but now due to its Telegu population it possesses a unique blend of French and Telegu culture. This can be observed in its unique architecture of temples, mosques and churches.
In order to reach Yanam you can take flights to Rajahmundry Airport in Andhra Pradesh which is around 60 km from our destination. If you plan to take the rail route Kakinada railway station is the nearest.
Yanam can be considered as a spot for those in search of spiritual getaways. The skilled work of the artisans on the religious monuments is an amazing visual appeal. Being located along the banks of the Gauthami Godavari River, Yanam is surrounded with coconut trees which give it an exotic touch. To give this hidden beauty some limelight we bring to you some of its best places which are worth a visit.
You will be jaw dropped by the beauty of this beach. It is nothing less than a movie location. The spic and span look is a visual therapy. There is a statue of Jesus Christ and another one of Rajiv Gandhi on whom the beach has been named. The pathway along the beach called the Ferry Road has a grand entrance with a massive idol of two elephants around a Shiv Ling. You will also come across a Bharat Mata statue along the beach. There is also a ship model here called Nagoor Meera Sahib Mandir at Ferry Road.
Rajiv Gandhi Beach
Picture credits: yanam.gov.in |
Bharta Mata Statue
Picture credits: yanam.gov.in |
Jesus Satue
Picture credits: yanam.gov.in |
Nagoor Meera Sahib Mandir
Picture credits: yanam.gov.in |
Ambedkar Nagar Park
Picture credits: yanam.gov.in |
It is a popular Lord Vishnu Temple which is dedicated to Venkanna Babu. It was built by the Chalukya kings of Rajamahendravaram. The architecture consists of sculptures of the Chalukya era.
This beauty was donated by the French Government and has been remodelled a couple of times. About 200 people can sit and pray here at the same time. The popular Muslim festivals like Ramadan and Bakrid are celebrated with great splendour.
Grand Mosque
Picture credits: yanam.gov.in |
The church was built in authentic European style with all its decorative addition imported from France. The church is dedicated to Mother Mary.
St Ann’s Church
Picture credits: www.nativeplanet.com |
Due to these religious places it is quite evident that the people of Yanam indulge in various festivals which are on the lavish side. The celebrations are rich and vibrant. Some of the famous festivals are; Sri Rajarajeswara Kalyanotsavam which is celebrated for 20 days, Rath Festival dedicated to Venkanna Babu, Catholic festival, Fete de Pondicherry which is a 3-day annual cultural festival and Brahmotsavam which is a 10 day festival.
The other places near Yanam which are in close range for a short visit are Annavaram and Draksharamam.
It is situated 80 km from Yanam and is famous for newly married couples coming here to get blessed by Lord Satyanarayana Swamy. It is the second important temple in Andhra Pradesh.
Annavaram
Picture credits: www.manatemples.net |
It is also called Bheemeswara Swamy’ temple. It is one of the oldest temples in India which has a Lingam around 14 ft high. The temple is located around 16 km from Yanam.
Draksharaman or Bheemeshwara-Swamy-Temple
Picture credits: yaswanth5c8.blogspot.com |
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