History of Bapatla District
Bapatla District has a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. The region is best known for Bhattiprolu, one of South India’s oldest Buddhist centers, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Archaeological discoveries from the ancient stupa highlight the district’s importance in early Buddhist civilization.
Over the centuries, the area was ruled by several powerful dynasties, including the Satavahanas, Pallavas, Cholas, Kakatiyas, and Vijayanagara rulers, who contributed to its cultural and architectural heritage.
Bapatla also played a key role in Andhra Pradesh’s history. The First Andhra Mahasabha was held here in 1913, laying the foundation for the movement for a separate Andhra State. The region further gained prominence during the Chirala-Perala Movement, an important chapter in India’s freedom struggle.
On 4 April 2022, Bapatla was officially formed as a separate district, marking a new era of development while preserving its rich historical legacy.
First Andhra Mahasabha at Bapatla
The First Andhra Mahasabha, held in Bapatla in 1913, was a historic event in the movement for a separate Andhra State. The conference brought together Telugu leaders, scholars, and social reformers to discuss the educational, cultural, and economic development of Telugu-speaking people within the then Madras Presidency.
The Mahasabha played a crucial role in promoting Telugu identity and laid the foundation for the demand for a separate state for Telugu-speaking regions. The discussions and resolutions passed during the conference inspired future leaders and became an important milestone in Andhra Pradesh’s political history.
Today, Bapatla is proudly remembered as the birthplace of the Andhra Movement, making the First Andhra Mahasabha one of the most significant events in the district’s historical legacy.
Chirala–Perala Movement (1921)
The Chirala–Perala Movement was one of the most significant freedom movements in Andhra Pradesh during India’s struggle for independence. Led by Andhra Ratna Duggirala Gopalakrishnayya in 1921, the people of Chirala and Perala protested against the British government’s decision to impose heavy municipal taxes.
In a remarkable act of non-violent resistance, thousands of residents left their homes and established a temporary settlement called Ramnagar, refusing to pay the unjust taxes. The movement became a symbol of courage, unity, and the spirit of self-rule, attracting national attention and support from freedom fighters across the country.
Today, the Chirala–Perala Movement is remembered as a landmark event in India’s freedom struggle and a proud chapter in the history of Bapatla District.
Overview of Bapatla District
Explore Bapatla District Towns
Bapatla
| Category | District Headquarters |
| Population | 70,777 |
| Approx. Area | 17 km² |
| Revenue Division | Bapatla |
| Known For | Education & Administration |
| Famous Place | Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple |
| Tourist Attraction | Suryalanka Beach |
| Economy | Agriculture, Fisheries, Services |
| Special Feature | Coastal Tourism Hub |
Chirala
| Category | Municipality |
| Population | 1.25 Lakh+ |
| Approx. Area | 13 km² |
| Revenue Division | Chirala |
| Known For | Handloom Industry |
| Famous Place | Chirala Textile Markets |
| Tourist Attraction | Vodarevu Beach |
| Economy | Textiles & Trade |
| Special Feature | Manchester of Andhra Pradesh |
Ponnur
| Category | Municipality |
| Population | 60,000+ |
| Approx. Area | 15 km² |
| Revenue Division | Ponnur Region |
| Known For | Religious Tourism |
| Famous Place | Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple |
| Tourist Attraction | Giant Hanuman Statue |
| Economy | Agriculture |
| Special Feature | Spiritual Hub |
Repalle
| Category | Municipality |
| Population | 50,866 |
| Approx. Area | 11 km² |
| Revenue Division | Repalle |
| Known For | Krishna Delta |
| Famous Place | Delta Agricultural Region |
| Tourist Attraction | Nizampatnam Coast |
| Economy | Agriculture & Aquaculture |
| Special Feature | Fertile Delta Lands |
Addanki
| Category | Historic Town |
| Population | 40,000+ |
| Approx. Area | 18 km² |
| Revenue Division | Bapatla |
| Known For | Historical Heritage |
| Famous Place | Ancient Telugu Inscriptions |
| Tourist Attraction | Historic Temples |
| Economy | Agriculture & Trade |
| Special Feature | Ancient Cultural Legacy |
Vetapalem
| Category | Town |
| Population | 38,671 |
| Approx. Area | 11 km² |
| Revenue Division | Chirala |
| Known For | Libraries & Education |
| Famous Place | Saraswata Niketanam |
| Tourist Attraction | Historic Library |
| Economy | Agriculture |
| Special Feature | Knowledge Center |
Bhattiprolu
| Category | Historic Town |
| Population | 15,000+ |
| Approx. Area | 9 km² |
| Revenue Division | Repalle |
| Known For | Buddhist Heritage |
| Famous Place | Bhattiprolu Stupa |
| Tourist Attraction | Archaeological Site |
| Economy | Agriculture |
| Special Feature | Ancient Buddhist Civilization |
Inkollu
| Category | Town |
| Population | 22,000+ |
| Approx. Area | 12 km² |
| Revenue Division | Chirala |
| Known For | Agriculture |
| Famous Place | Local Temple Complexes |
| Tourist Attraction | Village Heritage |
| Economy | Paddy & Cotton |
| Special Feature | Commercial Center |
Martur
| Category | Town |
| Population | 25,000+ |
| Approx. Area | 14 km² |
| Revenue Division | Bapatla |
| Known For | Mirchi Market |
| Famous Place | Agricultural Markets |
| Tourist Attraction | Rural Landscapes |
| Economy | Agriculture |
| Special Feature | Chilli Trading Hub |
Karlapalem
| Category | Coastal Town |
| Population | 12,000+ |
| Approx. Area | 10 km² |
| Revenue Division | Repalle |
| Known For | Coastal Villages |
| Famous Place | Backwater Regions |
| Tourist Attraction | Coastal Landscapes |
| Economy | Fisheries |
| Special Feature | Marine Economy |
