The city has a population of 228,025 and was established as the capital of the Vizianagaram estate by Raja Vijayaram Raj from the Pusapati dynasty.

The rulers had a notable role in the history of the region in the 18th century and were patrons of education and arts.

[6] Excavations at this town revealed copper coins belonging to the remains of 900 B.C.

[7] Vizianagaram Princely State was ruled by Pusapati Kings & Gajapati Maharajas.

[12] The jurisdictional area of the corporation is spread over 29.27 km2 (11.30 sq mi) with 38 election wards.

[13] Utility services include a water supply, sewer connections, drainage systems, parks, grounds, community centres, and healthcare.

The municipality maintains 458 public taps, 749 bore–wells, 330 km (210 mi) of roads, 243.25 km (151.15 mi) of drains, 32 parks, 2 playgrounds, 49 elementary and 3 secondary schools and 1 maternity and child health centre.