The Chandavaram Buddhist site is perched on a hillock known as Singarayakonda. Excavations have also unearthed viharas (a domicile for Buddhist monks), votive stupas, coins dating back to the Satavahana period, inscriptions in Brahmi, pottery in red and black, and other early cultural relics that are historically enlightening. The ruins of a monastic complex which includes a Maha Chaitya with a dome 1.6 meters high and a drum 60 cms wide, a three-winged vihara and two other monasteries inspire awe in among the tourists. The establishment has an abundance of remnants of Stupas, Chaityagrihas and Vihara complexes. The Chandavaram stupa is the first of its kind in Andhra Pradesh and stands next to Sanchi Stupa, in its grace and importance.
Places of Interest around Chandavaram Buddhist Site
- Doddavaram village: A village laced with temples like Sivalayam, SriRamalayam, Sri Narasimha Swami Alayam, Ankamma gudi, Chinna Ankamma gudi, Poleramma gudi, Veera Brahmendra Swami gudi, and the like. Famed for festivals like "Ankamma Thirunaala" in March and "Rashtra Sthaayi eddula pandem" or the competition of Bulls in May.
- Markapur: The Chennakesava Temple is the major attraction of this place.
Reaching Chandavaram
- By Road: Well connected by frequent buses Chandavaram is 75 kms from Ongole and 150 kms from Vijayawada. Private transport is available from nearby Donakonda.
- By Rail: Chandavaram is well connected by bus with frequent buses from Ongole. Private transport is available from Donakonda.
- By Air: Vijayawada Airport houses the nearest aerodrome to Chandavaram.
