Yanam

Travel to Yanam

History of Yanam

Yanam is one of the regions of Pondicherry and is located on the eastern coast of India. The region lies where the Koringa and Gautami rivers separate and is surrounded by the Godavari Gowthami River towards the east and south.

Yanam has a history of around 300 years associated with French rule. Although geographically located in Andhra Pradesh, it is politically part of Pondicherry, giving the region a distinctive cultural and administrative identity.

Geography and Agriculture of Yanam

Yanam is largely a flat region with alluvial soil suitable for several agricultural crops.

• Rice
• Tobacco
• Coconut
• Jowar
• Ragi
• Pulses
• Coriander
• Fenugreek

Fishing in Yanam

Fishing is an important activity in the region. Major fishing areas include Gulrimpeta, Agraharam, Kothapeta, Mettakur, Kanakalapeta, Kursampeta, Padvarevupeta and Sangadirerupeta.

The dhony, a type of canoe, is one of the commonly used fishing boats. Another type of boat known as Padona is also used. The catch includes mullet, hilsa, prawns, catfish and other species.

How to Reach Yanam

By Road

Yanam is connected by road with important nearby cities of Andhra Pradesh, including Kakinada, Rajahmundry and Visakhapatnam.

By Train

The nearest railway station is located at Kakinada, approximately 26 km from Yanam. Kakinada is connected by rail with Chennai and other important destinations.

Venkanna Babu Temple

The Venkanna Babu Temple is also known as Chaldikudu Venkanna Temple and Meesala Venkanna Temple. According to the provided information, the temple was built by the rulers of Rajamahendravaram, now known as Rajahmundry, during the 15th century.

The temple is known for the deity's image featuring large moustaches, a distinctive feature associated with Lord Sathyanarayana Swamy of Annavaram.

Venkanna Festival

The Venkanna Festival is celebrated every year in March and continues for approximately one month. The Kalyanam of Lord Venkateswara is one of the main events.

• Ponnavahanam
• Radha Yatra
• Chakrateertham
• Lord Venkateswara Kalyanam

During the festival, numerous devotees visit Yanam to participate in the celebrations and seek the blessings of Lord Venkanna Babu.

Venkanna Ratham

The Venkanna Ratham is a ceremonial chariot weighing approximately 15 tonnes. It was built in 1950 and later renovated after being partially damaged by a severe cyclone in 1996.

The Ratham is taken through part of Yanam during the celebrations and is accompanied by devotees chanting prayers and performing bhajans.

The Grand Mosque of Yanam

The site for the mosque was donated by the French Government in 1848. A small mosque was initially built and was later renovated and replaced by a new structure.

The mosque was expanded during 1999-2000 and can accommodate approximately 200 people for prayers.

• Ramzan
• Bakrid
• Milad Nabi

These occasions are celebrated with great importance every year. The mosque also serves communities from nearby villages in Andhra Pradesh.

Catholic Church of Yanam

The Catholic Church is one of the reminders of the French presence in Yanam. It was built in a European architectural style, with furniture and decorative elements imported from France.

The church was completed in 1846 and preserves elements associated with the history of French rulers and missionaries in the region.

Maria Maa Festival

According to the local history provided, an important festival dedicated to Maria Maa is celebrated every year in March. Devotees from different nearby areas visit the site to participate in the celebrations.

A notable feature of the festival is the participation of people from different religious communities, including Christians, Muslims and Hindus.

Hotels in Yanam

• Hotel Priyanka Yanam
• Chandrakala Lodge Yanam
• Dattatreya Lodge Yanam
• Samrat Lodge Yanam
• Meera Tourist Home Yanam
• Satya Shelter Yanam
• Satya Lodge Yanam
• Regency Guest House Yanam
• Suchcitra Guest House Yanam
• Siris Agro Ltd Guest House Yanam