Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Bhimili

One of the finest sea resorts in the country, Bheemunipatnam popular as 'Bheemli' is located at a distance of 24 Kilometers North east of Visakhapatnam. Its beautiful beach and invigorating climate coupled with the pleasantness provided by the lush green palm groves adds to its immense attraction . The 24-km. beach road from Vizag to Bhimili is one of the longest beach roads in India. The sun-kissed beaches en route make the Car/Bike drive as enjoyable as the destination. Bheemunipatnam is located on a slope which just rises from the sea and presents a beautiful background of a sea scape. The town is situated at the confluence of river Gosthani and the Bay of Bengal. There is a big laterite topped hill dedicated to Lord Narasimha. Being a sea-side resort and owing to its close proximity to Visakhapatnam city, Bheemunipatnam holds a rich potential for development. Once a Dutch settlement, the ruins of a fort and cemetery built by the Dutch are still seen. Remains of a round house close to the sea throw light on the Dutch architecture. The beach at Bheemli is one of the safest for swimmers. This tourist resort is well connected by road from Visakhapatnam. City buses carry the tourists to Bheemli. Private taxis can also be arranged from Visakhapatnam. People can carry food packets or buy food at the small cafes at Bheemunipatnam. The drive from Visakhapatnam to Bheemli is exhilarating. Places of Interest: Temple of Lord NarasimhaEntering Bheemili the Temple welcomes the visitor. As per the history, the temple is reconstructed in 1226 Salivahana saka by Mindi Rayappa Ramajogi and Murugappa Setti/Alagappa Setti have presented the brass cover in 1983. FortIn 1624 the Dutch arrived here and in the fight that ensued between the locals and Dutch, 101 Dutch soliders and 200 locals died (as recorded in the visakhapatnam Gazetteer). Later the Dutch resolved withthe locals and started business and in 1661 they have constructed a fort measuring 235 x 405 feet with four minarets, Clock Tower, Mint (in the present clock tower area). The fort was completely ruined. Clock TowerEvery visitor to this place finds this clock tower in the midst of the town as a reminder of the past. St. Peter's ChurchConstructed during 1855-1864 the foundation stone is laid by Rev. John Griffiths in the presence of Robert Reed the then Collector and Chief Magistrate and the Church was consecreated on 17-3-1864 by Bishop Gell. The architecture, furniture and the stained glass window on the east depicting the crucification of Jesus is unique in itself. The marble plaques in the shape of a scroll unfolding with its shining inspite of the ravages of time is a real feast to the eye. Old Dutch CemeteryThe cemetery situated in the west of the town speaks of the Dutch who gave their lives here. The unique feature of the cemetry is the depiction of the cause of the death on the grave enlivens the past. Ocean View Guest HouseAt present owned by Chittivalasa Jute Mills, originally it is the Imperial Bank Building which was purchased long back and maintained without spoiling its elegance. It is a remainder of the past glory of the town. It consists of one main suite and two other suites and an Annexe in the 1st floor. The view from the guest house is a worthy scene which enthralls the visitor. Municipal ChoultryThe building constructed with two stones with Madras Terrace. Municipal Office/Port Shipping OfficeThese two structures in the same compound remind the past of the Port which has seen the export and import at the distant past. The high ceiling and the serene atmosphere it offers till today stand as a testimony to the unknown engineer who selected the site and constructed this spacious building. Port Light House/Flag StaffOne of the eight Light houses built along the coast between Kakinada and Srikakulam. They are the reminder of this port which has seen the glory of the past (1868). BheemeswaralayamThis temple is situated in the main road and there are a cluster of temples in the place. Bheemeswaralayam is constructed in 1170 Salivahana Saka year. There is Choleswaralayam constructed by Cholas.




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Vanya Gupta said...
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