[3] It includes major cities such as Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada as well as the state capital Amaravati and is recognized for its fertile lands, rich cultural heritage, and economic importance.
Coastal Andhra plays a significant role in the state's agricultural output, particularly in rice and tobacco production, supported by abundant water resources from the Godavari, Krishna, and Penna rivers.
The region contributed actively to the Indian independence movement and continues to impact the state’s economy through industries such as information technology, petroleum, and pharmaceuticals.
Historical accounts by Greek ambassador Megasthenes (c. 310 BCE) reference Andhra as a flourishing region under the Satavahanas before the Common Era.
[10][11] Coastal Andhra was subsequently governed by the Eastern Chalukya dynasty between the 7th and 12th centuries CE, followed by successive rule under the Chola, Kakatiya, and Vijayanagara empires.
[15] In the mid-18th century, the Gajapati and Ganjam districts, which were part of Coastal Andhra, were granted to the French East India Company in 1752 but were later transferred to British control.
Fertile lands in Coastal Andhra are supported by the presence of three major rivers: the Godavari, Krishna, and Penna, which enhance agricultural productivity through extensive irrigation systems.
[citation needed] The Coastal Andhra region of Andhra Pradesh comprises 18 districts: Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Alluri Sitharama Raju, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna, NTR, Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Prakasam and Nellore.
They are: Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Guntur, Nellore, Kakinada, Tuni,Rajahmundry and Eluru are prominent cities in the Coastal Andhra region.
Coastal Andhra is a prominent hub for Buddhist heritage in India, second only to the Gangetic plains of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Excavations at Gudiwada village in Vizianagaram district for instance, uncovered an ancient stupa mound, reflecting the depth of Buddhist influence across the region.
[28] Coastal Andhra is well-connected by various modes of transportation, including air, rail, and road networks, playing a crucial role in the region's connectivity and economy.