Located on the serene banks of the Vainateya River, a tributary of the Godavari, the Adurru Buddhist Site in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema District (Andhra Pradesh) is one of South India’s most ancient and lesser-known Buddhist centers. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, this archaeological gem offers insights into the spread of Buddhism along India’s eastern coast and the maritime trade routes that once connected the region to Southeast Asia.
Location & How to Reach
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Location: Adurru village, Ainavilli Mandal, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema District, Andhra Pradesh
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Nearest Town: Amalapuram (10 km)
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Nearest Major City: Rajahmundry (70 km)
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Nearest Railway Station: Rajahmundry Railway Station
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Nearest Airport: Rajahmundry Airport (~75 km)
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Best Route from Hyderabad: Hyderabad → Rajahmundry → Amalapuram → Adurru
Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant weather for exploration)
Historical Significance
The Adurru Stupa was discovered in 1925 during an archaeological survey and is now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Excavations revealed a large Mahastupa (Great Stupa), several viharas (monastic dwellings), chaityas (prayer halls), and small stupas built with brick and limestone slabs.
Historians believe the site was part of a Buddhist settlement that thrived under the Satavahana and Ikshvaku dynasties. Its coastal location made it an important stop for monks and merchants traveling between Kalinga (Odisha) and the Buddhist ports of Southeast Asia.
Architectural Highlights
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Main Stupa: The central stupa, built on a raised platform, measures about 17 meters in diameter and follows the Andhra style of Buddhist architecture similar to Amaravati and Nagarjunakonda.
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Viharas and Chaityas: Remains of monastic quarters and prayer halls surround the main stupa.
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Relics and Artifacts: Excavations unearthed terracotta fragments, pottery, beads, and early inscriptions, shedding light on Buddhist life during the early centuries BCE.
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Tranquil Setting: The stupa stands amidst lush green fields, creating a peaceful spiritual atmosphere ideal for heritage exploration and photography.
Adurru as an Eco-Cultural Heritage Site
Adurru represents a unique blend of eco-tourism and spiritual heritage. The site lies close to the Konaseema backwaters, famous for their coconut groves and mangrove-rich estuaries. Tourists can:
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Explore Adurru Stupa and nearby Buddhist relics.
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Enjoy village stays in the green heart of Konaseema.
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Visit coconut farms, canals, and backwater boat rides around Amalapuram.
Local communities have also started offering eco-friendly homestays, helping preserve the natural and cultural identity of the region.
Nearby Attractions & Accommodations
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Draksharamam Temple (30 km): One of the five sacred Pancharama Kshetras.
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Kadiyam Nurseries (60 km): Renowned for exotic plant varieties near Rajahmundry.
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Dowleswaram Barrage (65 km): A marvel on the Godavari River.
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Konaseema Backwaters: Ideal for boating and photography.
Nearby Stays:
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Sri Aditya Comfort Inn, Amalapuram
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Annapurna Lodge, Amalapuram
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Manjeera Lodge, Rajahmundry
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Where is Adurru Buddhist Stupa located?
Adurru is located in Ainavilli Mandal, near Amalapuram in the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema District of Andhra Pradesh.
Q2. What is the historical significance of the site?
It dates back to the 2nd century BCE and is believed to be one of the earliest Buddhist centers in coastal Andhra Pradesh, connected with the ancient maritime trade route.
Q3. Who discovered the Adurru Stupa?
The site was discovered in 1925 by the Archaeological Survey of India during an excavation mission.
Q4. What is unique about the Adurru Stupa’s architecture?
It follows the Andhra style similar to Amaravati, with a circular brick base and relic chambers that likely once contained sacred remains.
Q5. How far is Adurru from Rajahmundry?
It is about 70 km from Rajahmundry and easily accessible by road via Amalapuram.
Q6. What is the best time to visit Adurru?
From November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the Konaseema landscape is lush.
Conclusion
The Adurru Buddhist Stupa stands as a timeless monument of Andhra Pradesh’s ancient Buddhist legacy. Its peaceful riverside setting, historic ruins, and proximity to Konaseema’s natural beauty make it a perfect destination for history lovers, spiritual travelers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts alike.
A visit to Adurru is not just a trip through history — it’s a journey into India’s serene Buddhist past.
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