Mangamaripeta Beach: The lesser-known tourist spot at Thotlakonda

Mangamaripeta Beach or Thotlakonda Beach, is less-visited than other popular beaches in Vizag. But it is a beach not to be missed. For every visit to the Thotlakonda hill, it’s also worth going to this beach and checking out its pristine stretches. However, this beach is known for the natural arch situated at its shores.

With an expanse of soft sands, intermixed with intriguing rock formations, Mangamaripeta Beach is ideal for those who want to relax amidst nature, escaping from the bustle of the Visakhapatnam city. It’s only 15 km from MVP Colony in the city but there is no urban disturbance here. This beach is just as peaceful as the Buddhist sites atop the Thotlakonda hill.

How to get there?

Getting to Mangamaripeta Beach is easier than you think. It’s located on the road to Bheemili, which is commonly known as Beach Road. This 4-lane road proves to be a seamless, calm drive, especially in the morning. People can also get here by taking the Bheemili-heading 900K bus of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC). If you’re not a stickler for comfort, then, shared autorickshaws also run from MVP Colony to this place and are a decent budget-travel option.

Best time to go?

Much like the other beaches in Vizag, Mangamaripeta Beach is also a sunrise beach (A beach where the sun rises over the sea). Hence, the best time to visit this beach is early in the morning, when traffic is less and people can catch a mesmerising sunrise over the sea. Also, it’s a spectacular sight to watch the sunrise through the natural arch at the beach.

It is not recommended to visit this beach in the dark because it is usually deserted and not well-marked. Additionally, the beach is very rocky and it is important that people watch their step while walking on it.

What to do at the beach?

One of the peaceful beaches near Vizag, people can come here to meditate, jog on the sand or just sit and enjoy the view. You can also come here for a romantic walk with your partner. Whenever you do come here, listen to the waves crashing against the rocks, smell the salty sea air and let the water wash your feet away.

For nature photographers, the natural arch at the beach is one of the most popular photography spots. Even many wedding photoshoots take place at this spot. But while taking photos, do not walk over the arch, the rock there is extremely slippery and it is easy for one to slip from there and fall into the water.

Responsible tourism at Mangamaripeta Beach

As and when this place picks up popularity and more tourists come here, it is important for all to be responsible tourists. Already, without a lot of tourism, this beach is littered in the occasional area. When crowds start pouring here, beach cleanup would be one of the keys to retaining its beauty.

Additionally, this beach isn’t a developed beach like Rushikonda or RK Beach. There are hardly any facilities. The best option is the nearby Baywatch Resort of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) for washing facilities, restaurants, etc. So, ideally, visitors should bring their own food and a garbage bag, so that no waste is left behind on the beach.