| Located about 16 kilometres away from the city of | | | | simple their lives used to be. |
| Visakhapatnam is the famous Buddhist Complex, | | | | Monks visiting Thotlakonda from far off countries |
| Thotlakonda. It lies on the city's beach road that | | | | such as Burma, China and other Asian nations usually |
| connects Bheemli, the historic town. Positioned on a | | | | arrived at the site through sea. These monks used to |
| hilltop at an elevation of 128 metres, this complex | | | | stay for many long month and years before they |
| was first discovered by the Indian Navy at a village | | | | completed their studying at this monastery. |
| called Mangamaripeta. | | | | Recognised as Hinayana Buddhist complex, AP |
| It is believed that Thotlakonda was in full operation | | | | tourism together with the assistance of |
| during 200 BC and 200 AD. The name of this ancient | | | | Viskhapatnam Urban Development Authority has |
| Buddhist compound means 'Hill with Stone wells'. It | | | | taken steps to put Thotlakonda in to the tourism |
| was named so because of its stone wells that stored | | | | map of Andhra Pradesh. As a result many |
| water for Buddhist monks. Even today there is a tub | | | | refurbishment measures have been taken by the |
| containing water at the top of the hill that never runs | | | | local government body to develop the site. |
| dry. | | | | This peaceful and outstanding monastery located on |
| The architectural style of the complex is simple yet | | | | a hill top provides the perfect place for worship and |
| elegant with meditation halls mainly designed to offer | | | | even sightseeing. Exploring Thotlakonda and its rich |
| peace and silence for monks. The stupas are | | | | Buddhist heritage will be easier by choosing to stay |
| positioned right in the heart of the complex while the | | | | at The Gateway Hotel Beach Road Visakhapatnam |
| hall is looked after by two guards standing by the | | | | which is located close by. The Gateway Hotel is well |
| entrance. Thotlakonda is also home to many stupas | | | | known for offering refined personal service which is |
| and viharas. The cooking area as well as the resting | | | | ideal for a cozy, convenient and pleasant stay. |
| place used by monks creates a clear picture of how | | | | |