Bheemili Beach, officially known as Bheemunipatnam Beach, is a picturesque and historically significant coastal destination located approximately 24-32 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city in Andhra Pradesh. Named after Bheema from the Mahabharata legends, this beautiful fishing village sits at the confluence of the Gosthani River and the Bay of Bengal, presenting a serene, unspoiled beachfront stretching approximately 30 kilometers. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, Bheemili Beach represents one of Vizag's most authentic and rewarding tourist experiences.
Historical Significance and Colonial Heritage
Bheemili carries profound historical importance, serving as one of India's oldest port towns and municipalities. The region has been home to multiple civilizations and empires:
Dutch Colonial Era (17th Century): The Dutch East India Company established a major trading port here in the 17th century, transforming Bheemili into a flourishing commercial hub. The remnants of this era are visible in the form of the Old Dutch Fort, featuring distinctive colonial architecture, and the Hollanders Green Cemetery, one of India's oldest cemeteries, established in the 1600s with tombs adorned with the skull and crossbones motif of sea pirates
British Colonial Period: Following the decline of Dutch authority, the region came under British rule, further enriching Bheemili's historical layers. The 18th-century Lighthouse and Red Church (St. Peter's Church) stand as testimony to this era.
Buddhist Heritage: Archaeological excavations on nearby Pavurallakonda hillock have revealed evidence of flourishing Buddhism dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Buddhist remains, including relic caskets and Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhist artifacts, have been discovered here, indicating that Bheemili served as an important Buddhist propagation center whose influence extended to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
Natural Beauty and Beach Features
Bheemili Beach is renowned for several distinctive features that make it stand out among Vizag's coastal attractions:
Golden Sands and Calm Waters: The beach features soft, powdery golden sands and calm, clear turquoise waters that are notably safer for swimming compared to other Vizag beaches. The gentle waves and sheltered bay create ideal conditions for relaxation and water activities.
Rock Formations and Natural Arch: The beach is adorned with stunning natural rock formations, including a distinctive natural arch carved by wave erosion, creating picturesque photography opportunities
River-Sea Confluence: The Gosthani River's meeting point with the Bay of Bengal creates a unique geographical feature, adding to the beach's natural allure and providing diverse ecosystems
Lush Greenery and Palm-Lined Promenades: Concrete pathways lined with swaying coconut palm trees stretch along the beach, providing shaded routes for leisurely walks and scenic vistas.
Key Attractions and Landmarks
Lord Narasimha Temple: Perched atop a hill overlooking the beach, this ancient 14th-century temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha attracts devotees and tourists seeking spiritual reflection combined with panoramic coastal views.
The Lighthouse: An 18th-century lighthouse offers a 360-degree viewpoint of the entire coastal landscape from its top, providing stunning photography opportunities and breathtaking vistas of the city and sea
Hollanders Green Cemetery: This historic cemetery dating back to the 17th century serves as a museum of colonial history, with graves and monuments telling stories of the Dutch and European traders who shaped Bheemili's past.
Dutch Fort Ruins: The remnants of the 17th-century Dutch fort showcase impressive colonial architecture and strategic positioning overlooking the harbor.
St. Peter's Church (Red Church): Built during the colonial period, this distinctive church remains a remarkable architectural monument
Maharaja's Guest House: A historic structure reflecting the region's royal heritage, adding cultural and architectural significance.
Clock Tower: A colonial-era clock tower stands as another testament to Bheemili's historical importance.
Activities and Water Sports
Bheemili Beach offers a comprehensive range of recreational activities for visitors of all interests:
Swimming: The calm waters make it one of the safest beaches in Andhra Pradesh for swimming and water activities
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore underwater marine life and coral formations
Water Skiing: Thrilling water sports for adventure enthusiasts
Boating: Traditional boat rides along the coastline
Fishing: Experience traditional fishing methods alongside local fishermen
Photography: Capture historical monuments, natural rock formations, and sunset views
Picnicking: Scenic beach areas ideal for family picnics
Heritage Exploration: Walk through history visiting forts, cemeteries, temples, and churches
Bird Watching: Observe diverse bird species in the wetlands and coastal areas
Visitor Information and Practical Details
Entry Fee: No entry charge to access Bheemili Beach
Operating Hours: Open throughout the day; early morning (6-9 AM) and late evening (4-8 PM) are most pleasant
Location: Bheemunipatnam, Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh
Distance from City Center:
From Visakhapatnam Railway Station: 30-32 km (approximately 1 hour by car)
From Visakhapatnam Airport: 40 km
Transportation:
APSRTC Buses: Direct bus services via Route 900K (Railway Station → Bheemili via Beach Road) and Route 999
Private Vehicles: Taxi or rental car services available
Personal Transport: Easy accessibility via well-maintained roads
Facilities Available:
Restrooms and basic sanitation facilities
Parking areas for vehicles
Local food vendors and small shops
Beach resorts and accommodations including Keertana Vanam Beach Resort (operated by VUDA)
Budget hotels with modern amenities
Dining and Local Cuisine
Bheemili offers authentic local dining experiences at traditional village shacks and modern restaurants. Fresh seafood is the specialty, with local delicacies including:
Fresh fish curry and grilled fish
Prawn preparations
Traditional Andhra cuisine
Local coastal specialties unique to Bheemili
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Season: October to March when temperatures range from 15-30°C, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities and beach exploration.
Summer (March-May): If you prefer adventure and don't mind heat, summer offers excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities.
Monsoon (June-September): Not recommended due to heavy rainfall and rough seas.
Why Bheemili Beach Stands Out
Unlike crowded urban beaches, Bheemili maintains a serene, authentic character combining natural beauty with profound historical significance. The beach offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience history through colonial architecture, ancient temples, and archaeological sites while enjoying peaceful coastal ambiance. The calm waters make it one of Vizag's safest swimming beaches, and the 30-kilometer stretch ensures spacious, uncrowded experiences.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors can easily combine Bheemili with nearby sites:
Pavurallakonda Buddhist Site - Ancient Buddhist archaeological site
Mangamaripeta Beach and Natural Arch - Scenic coastal formation
Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex - 6,000-year-old monastery ruins
Yarada Beach - Alternative beach destination
Photography and Social Media Appeal
Bheemili Beach is increasingly popular with photographers and content creators, offering diverse subjects from historical monuments to natural rock formations and stunning seascapes.
