Srikakulam district is rich in temple architecture and archaeological sites, most of them refreshingly uncrowded. The highlights are spread across the countryside, so plan on hiring a car or auto-rickshaw for the day.
Arasavalli Sun Temple is just 3.5 kilometers from Srikakulam town and is one of the very few temples in India dedicated to the Sun God. Built by the Eastern Ganga kings around the 7th century, the temple is aligned so that the rising sun's rays fall directly on the deity's feet twice a year, in February and June, even when all five entrance gates are closed.
Salihundam is a Buddhist archaeological site on a hilltop overlooking the Vamsadhara River, about 45 kilometers from town. The remains include stupas, viharas, and chaityas dating from the 2nd century BC to the 7th century AD. The site is peaceful and little visited.
Srimukhalingam is an ancient Shiva temple complex about 60 kilometers from Srikakulam, built by the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The main temple, dedicated to Mukhalingeshwara, features fine carvings and sits on the banks of the Vamsadhara.
Srikurmam houses a rare temple dedicated to Kurma, the tortoise avatar of Vishnu — one of only two such temples in India. It is about 15 kilometers east of Srikakulam on the road toward the coast.