Once famous as the main centre of the Mahayana Buddhism in the South, Amaravati lies beside the ruins of yet another city of yore, Dhanyakataka, the capital
of the Satavahanas.
The Mahachaitya or the Stupa that once stood here was bigger than the Stupa at Sanchi that can be seen to this day. Only the outlines have survived the ages
that have swept away the structure. The finds that are treasured in a museum include panels depicting the Jataka tales, the Bodhi tree with devotees around it, beautiful
images of the Buddha and several sculptural specimens of 2nd century and even earlier times. Close to Amaravati, on the river-bank, is the ancient temple of Amaralingeswara
(Shiva), once famous and popular. Tourist and P.W.D. bungalows are available at Amaravati.