Vizianagaram is the main city of the Vizianagaram District of north-eastern Andhra Pradesh in southern India. Vizianagaram district was formed on 1 June 1979, with some parts carved from the neighbouring districts of Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam. It is, at present, the largest municipality of Andhra Pradesh, in terms of population. It is located about 18 km inland from the Bay of Bengal, and 52 km northeast of Visakhapatnam. While the literal meaning of Vizianagaram is the city of victory, it is also sometimes referred to as the city of education. It is an important business and educational center for north coastal Andhra and the adjoining state of Orissa.