Uppada Beach is located in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, is a picturesque escape that blends golden sands, tranquil waters, and local coastal charm. Unlike the crowded beaches of Goa or Chennai, Uppada offers a calm, offbeat experience—perfect for travelers seeking peace, nature, and authentic coastal village life.
Location & Accessibility
Uppada Beach lies about 10 km from Kakinada, in East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. The beach is easily accessible via National Highway 216, connecting Kakinada and Uppada village.
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Nearest Airport: Rajahmundry Airport (around 65 km)
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Nearest Railway Station: Kakinada Town Railway Station (10 km)
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Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
The newly developed Uppada Beach Road, a scenic stretch parallel to the sea, makes the drive from Kakinada a breathtaking experience with views of palm trees, fishing boats, and the endless blue horizon.
The Allure of Uppada Beach
What sets Uppada Beach apart is its tranquil beauty and cultural authenticity. The beach is known for:
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Golden Sands & Gentle Waves: Ideal for long walks, picnics, and sunset photography.
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Local Fishing Villages: Offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of coastal Andhra.
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Handloom Weaving Heritage: Uppada is world-famous for its Uppada Pattu Sarees, woven by skilled local artisans.
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Eco-Friendly Tourism: The local community emphasizes cleanliness and sustainable tourism practices.
Visitors can also witness fishermen pulling nets at dawn, enjoy fresh seafood, or explore Uppada village markets for handwoven sarees and handicrafts.
Handloom Weaving Heritage: The Pride of Uppada
Beyond its scenic beach, Uppada’s heart beats in its looms. The small coastal village has earned international recognition for its Uppada Pattu Sarees, a handloom craft that combines age-old artistry with delicate finesse.
The weaving tradition here dates back over 300 years, believed to have evolved under the patronage of the royal families of the Godavari delta. Today, Uppada stands as one of the major handloom clusters in Andhra Pradesh, sustaining hundreds of artisan families.
1. The Art of Weaving
Uppada sarees are woven using the Jamdani technique, an intricate process where designs are handwoven directly onto the loom without embroidery or printing. Each saree can take anywhere between 10 to 30 days to complete, depending on its complexity.
Artisans use fine silk and cotton threads, blending them to create a lightweight fabric that’s both luxurious and comfortable. The motifs often draw inspiration from nature, temple architecture, and traditional floral patterns, passed down through generations.
2. Women at the Loom
One of Uppada’s most inspiring aspects is the active participation of women in the weaving process. Many women work from home-based looms, balancing artistry with household duties. This craft has become a symbol of empowerment, providing economic stability to rural families.
3. Global Recognition
The Uppada Jamdani Saree has earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, acknowledging its authenticity and regional origin. The sarees are now exported worldwide, gracing boutiques and fashion shows from Hyderabad to New York—yet each piece remains rooted in Uppada’s local soil and spirit.
4. Experiencing the Heritage
Travelers can visit the weaving clusters in Uppada village to watch artisans at work, hear their stories, and even try their hand at the loom. It’s an unforgettable cultural experience that connects visitors with Andhra’s rich artistic legacy.
A visit here transforms your beach trip into something deeper—a journey through threads of history, culture, and craftsmanship.
Local Flavor: The Famous Kotaiah Kaja of Kakinada
No trip to Uppada or Kakinada is complete without tasting the legendary Kotaiah Kaja — a sweet that defines the culinary identity of this coastal city.
1. A Legacy of Taste
The story of Kotaiah Kaja began nearly a century ago when Sri Kotaiah, a local sweet maker, perfected the art of preparing a flaky, layered sweet made from refined flour, sugar syrup, and ghee. Over time, his humble shop in Main Road, Kakinada, became a household name across Andhra Pradesh and beyond.
2. The Unique Flavor
Unlike the typical Kaja from other regions, Kakinada Kotaiah Kaja is crispy on the outside and syrupy-soft inside, with layers that melt in your mouth. Each piece is carefully fried to golden perfection before being soaked in aromatic sugar syrup infused with cardamom. The balance of crunch and sweetness makes it an irresistible delicacy for both locals and visitors.
3. A Sweet Symbol of Kakinada
The Kakinada Kaja has earned GI tag recognition as well, cementing its cultural and culinary importance. Travelers from across India stop by Sri Kotaiah Sweets to buy boxes of this signature dessert—whether as a gift or as a nostalgic reminder of coastal Andhra’s warmth.
When you visit Uppada Beach, a short 15-minute drive to Kakinada city lets you experience this iconic treat firsthand. Pairing the taste of Kotaiah Kaja with the sunset views of Uppada Beach makes for the perfect end to your coastal getaway.
Nearby Attractions
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Kakinada Beach Park: A lively spot with eateries and children’s play areas.
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Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary: About 20 km away, home to mangroves, otters, and rare bird species.
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Hope Island: A small, scenic island offering boat rides and dolphin sightings.
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Draksharama Temple: One of the Pancharama Kshetras, renowned for its spiritual significance.
Things to Do at Uppada Beach
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Enjoy Sunrise and Sunset Views – Capture golden hues over the Bay of Bengal.
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Indulge in Local Cuisine – Try spicy Andhra-style prawn fry and fish curry.
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Buy Uppada Sarees – Visit local handloom centers to witness weaving traditions.
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Photography & Birdwatching – Especially rewarding near the estuarine areas.
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Cycling & Beach Walks – The flat, scenic roads are perfect for leisure rides.
Best Time to Visit
The winter and early spring months (October–March) offer pleasant weather for sightseeing, while monsoon months (June–September) bring lush greenery and dramatic coastal skies.
Where to Stay
Kakinada offers several comfortable stay options ranging from budget lodges to boutique hotels. A few popular ones include:
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Paradigm Sarovar Portico
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Hotel Royal Park
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Venky Residency
For a more local experience, visitors can explore homestays near Uppada village, run by locals offering authentic Andhra hospitality.
Tips for Travelers
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Carry hats, sunscreen, and drinking water.
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Respect local customs, especially in fishing and weaving areas.
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Avoid swimming during high tides.
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Visit early morning or late evening for the best experience.
FAQs
Q1: Is there any entry fee for Uppada Beach?
No, entry to Uppada Beach is free for all visitors.
Q2: What is the nearest airport to Uppada Beach?
The nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport, located about 65 km away.
Q3: Can I visit Uppada Beach at night?
It’s not recommended to stay late at night as there are limited safety and lighting arrangements.
Q4: Is Uppada Beach suitable for families and kids?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly beach with safe, shallow areas and plenty of open space for children.
Q5: Where can I buy the authentic Kotaiah Kaja?
Visit Sri Kotaiah Sweets on Kakinada Main Road — the original shop famous for preparing this iconic delicacy for over 100 years.
People Also Ask (PAA)
1. Is Uppada Beach safe for swimming?
Yes, Uppada Beach is generally safe for swimming due to its gentle waves, but it’s best to avoid venturing deep, especially during high tides or rough weather.
2. How far is Uppada Beach from Kakinada?
Uppada Beach is approximately 10 km from Kakinada city, easily accessible via the scenic Uppada Beach Road.
3. What is Uppada famous for?
Uppada is famous for its handwoven Uppada silk sarees, traditional weaving culture, and its clean, serene beach.
4. What is special about Kotaiah Kaja?
Kotaiah Kaja from Kakinada is a crispy, syrupy traditional sweet made with flour and ghee, known for its unique texture and taste that represent the region’s culinary heritage.
5. When is the best time to visit Uppada Beach?
The best time to visit is October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Conclusion
Uppada Beach is not just a destination—it’s a journey into the heart of Andhra’s coastal and cultural identity. From its golden sands and age-old weaving heritage to the sweet indulgence of Kotaiah Kaja, Uppada and Kakinada together offer a soulful experience that blends nature, art, and flavor.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a quiet wanderer, Uppada Beach promises an experience that’s both rejuvenating and unforgettable.
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