Avakai: Amaravati Festival of Cinema, Culture and Literature is a multi-disciplinary cultural festival held in Vijayawada, across Punnami Ghat and Bhavani Island. The second edition is scheduled from 17 to 19 December 2026.
An initiative of Honourable Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the festival is presented under the aegis of the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority (APTA), in collaboration with Teamwork Arts. It builds on its inaugural edition (2025), which focused on celebrating the region’s literary, cinematic, and cultural traditions.
The festival’s line-up includes performances, panel discussions, workshops, and industry-led sessions, bringing together practitioners from cinema, literature, and the performing arts. Programming is designed to facilitate cross-disciplinary exchange, with participation from artists, writers, filmmakers, and cultural professionals.
Structured as an in-person, multi-venue event along the banks of the River Krishna, Avakai reflects the Chief Minister’s vision of culture as a driver of development, positioning the festival as a platform for creative exchange, cultural entrepreneurship, and regional engagement.
See more film festivals here.
How to reach Vijayawada
By Air: Vijayawada is served by Vijayawada International Airport (Gannavaram Airport), located about 19–20 km from the city centre. The airport has regular domestic flights connecting Vijayawada to major Indian cities including Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai. You can take a taxi, app-based cab, or airport shuttle/bus to reach the city from the airport.
By Rail: Vijayawada Junction is one of the busiest and best-connected railway stations in India. Trains link Vijayawada to major cities such as Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Hyderabad, making rail one of the most convenient travel options.
By Road: Vijayawada has excellent road connectivity via national highways and an extensive network of buses. Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) and private operators provide frequent bus services from cities like Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Chennai and Bengaluru. You can also hire taxis or self-drive to reach Vijayawada by road.
Source: MakeMyTrip









1. Light warm layers like a sweater or light jacket, as mornings and evenings can be cool in January.
2. Comfortable footwear ideal for sightseeing and exploring markets, temples, or riverfront areas.
3. Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against strong midday sun on clear January days.
4. A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while out and about.
5. A tote bag or small backpack for carrying souvenirs, brochures, or personal items.
6. Cash and cards — smaller shops and stalls may prefer cash, so it’s good to have both.
7. Basic medicines and personal care items, including any regular prescriptions and essentials like pain relievers and blister pads.
8. Sunscreen lip balm and moisturizer, since winter air can sometimes be dry on skin and lips.


