Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. 

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh

Gudivada is a historical and commercial town in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. Known for its cultural heritage, educational institutions, and agricultural economy, it is also called the “Land of Pools” (Gudivada means ‘Settlement of Tanks’). The town has significant Buddhist and Hindu influences, along with a thriving rice-based economy.

1. Location & Geography

• Located in coastal Andhra Pradesh, about 40 km from Vijayawada and 30 km from Machilipatnam.
• Lies in the Krishna River delta, making it a fertile and agriculturally rich region.
• Surrounded by water tanks (ponds), which historically contributed to its name.

2. Economy & Industries

• Agriculture:
  • Major crops: Paddy (rice), sugarcane, and pulses.
  • Part of the Krishna Delta irrigation system, benefiting from the Prakasam Barrage.
• Trade & Commerce:
  • A major commercial hub for rice, textiles, and dairy products.
• Small-Scale Industries:
  • Rice mills, food processing, and handloom industries contribute to the local economy.

3. Education & Institutions

• ANR College (Andhra Nationalist Ranga College), Gudivada
• Government Polytechnic College, Gudivada
• Several schools affiliated with CBSE and Andhra Pradesh State Board.

4. Historical & Cultural Significance

• Buddhist Stupas & Ruins:
  • The town has evidence of Buddhist settlements dating back to the Satavahana period.
• Hindu Temples:
  • Sri Subrahmanyeswara Swamy Temple and Sri Golingeswara Swamy Temple are famous pilgrimage sites.
• Kuchipudi Dance Heritage:
  • The famous Kuchipudi dance form has strong connections to the region.

5. Tourist Attractions

• Gudiwada Horse Racing Track:
  • A unique horse racing venue, attracting spectators and betting enthusiasts.
• Kolleru Lake (45 km away):
  • A famous bird sanctuary and one of the largest freshwater lakes in India.
• Machilipatnam Beach (35 km away):
  • A scenic coastal spot popular among locals.

6. Connectivity & Transport

• By Road:
  • Well-connected via NH-65 and state highways to Vijayawada, Machilipatnam, and Hyderabad.
  • Frequent APSRTC bus services.
• By Rail:
  • Gudivada Junction (GDV): A major railway station on the Vijayawada-Machilipatnam rail route.
• By Air:
  • The nearest airport is Vijayawada International Airport (50 km away).

7. Lifestyle & Development

• A rapidly urbanizing town with modern infrastructure, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities.
• Government initiatives for tourism, agriculture, and industrial growth.
• Real estate development due to its proximity to Vijayawada and Amaravati (AP’s capital region).