Thotlakonda

128 meters above sea level overlooking the sea Thotlakonda(‘thotla’ meaning trough and ‘konda’ meaning hill) derives from the presence of a number of rock-cut troughs hewn in the bedrock of the hillock. These rectangular troughs, which can still be seen, were used for storing water that used to be purified with herbs.

Thotlakonda was influenced by the ancient Kalinga region, which was an important source of dissemination of Buddhist culture to Sri Lanka and various parts of South East Asia. A hill on the seacoast with a salubrious climate was the ideal place for Buddhist monks to build a monastic complex here. The placid sea sheltered by the deeply curved coastline provided a safe haven for anchoring ships. Thotlakonda came to light during an aerial survey by the Indian Navy, and excavations conducted during 1988-93 established the existence of a Hinayana Buddhist complex, which flourished two thousand years ago. To the south of the complex there is a tank that served as a water source for inmates of the monastery. It is estimated that the monastery accommodated more than a hundred Buddhist monks. The excavations revealed Satvahana lead and Roman silver coins, indicating foreign trade. Terracotta tiles, stucco decorative pieces, sculptured panels, stupa models in stone, Buddha padas, etc. were also found. Thotlakonda had witnessed peak activity between 2nd century BC and 2nd century AD owing to brisk Roman trade and religious missions abroad. The complex had arrangements for storing food, clothing and medicines, and served as an academic center. It declined by the 3rd century AD, owing to the rise of Hinduism and decline of maritime trade.

Thotlakonda attracts by its scenic beauty, flanked as it is by the pristine waters of the sea and the hilly ranges of the Eastern Ghats. On this vast stretch of empty land can be seen the rectangular troughs for storing water, a large stupa known as the ‘maha stupa,’ where part of the ashes of Buddha are supposed to have been kept, the top of a broken pillar which is supposed to have been a part of the stupa, and ruins of prayer or lecture halls for students. Also to be seen are the ruins of a 64-pillared congregational hall where monks used to gather for meditation and religious discourses. There is also a kitchen complex consisting of four rectangular rooms used for cooking and storing food.

The Thotlakonda Buddhist complex lies about 15 km. from Vizag city on way to Bheemili town.