TheeraYatra

Quick Overview

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Weather: Pleasant winters, hot humid summers
Budget: ₹2,500–₹8,000/day
Speciality: Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

Nearest Airport: Rajahmundry Airport (Madhurapudi)
By Train: Rajahmundry Railway Station (RJY)
By Road: Well-connected via NH-16; APSRTC buses and private cabs available from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam
By Boat: Essential mode to reach Papikondalu from Rajahmundry jetty or Bhadrachalam

Where to Stay?

Rajahmundry City – comfortable hotels, restaurants, and easy boat access to Papikondalu
Kolluru Bamboo Huts – eco-friendly overnight stay experience amidst nature with no electricity or mobile network

Packing List

• Light cotton clothing and comfortable trekking shoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cap
• Mosquito repellent
• Raincoat or umbrella (especially during monsoon)
• Camera for scenic photography
• Power bank (limited charging facilities)
• Personal snacks and water bottles

Top Places to Visit

Papikondalu Hills

Breathtaking mountain ranges running along the Godavari River, resembling the parting of a woman’s hair. Often compared to Kashmir for its pristine beauty, lush greenery, and serene atmosphere.

Gandi Pochamma Temple

Ancient temple located in Gonduru village on the banks of River Godavari. A spiritual stopover during boat journeys with beautiful riverside views and local tribal worship traditions.

Perantapalli Village

Remote tribal village in Velerupadu mandal featuring the Sri Krishna Munivatam ashram built in 1927. Famous for bamboo handicrafts, tribal culture, and completely off-grid living powered by solar energy.

Pattiseema

Beautiful place 35 km from Rajahmundry with two important temples: Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple on Devakuta Hill (11th century) and Sri Bhava Narayana Swamy Temple, one of the Panchakasi Kshetras.

Papikondalu National Park

Vast protected forest reserve covering over 1,000 sq km in East and West Godavari districts. Home to diverse wildlife including tigers, leopards, deer, and rare bird species with tropical rainforests.

Kolluru Bamboo Huts

Unique eco-tourism experience with traditional bamboo cottages by the riverside. Perfect for overnight stays with bonfire, tribal dance programs, and fresh river fish delicacies.

Polavaram Project Area

Massive irrigation project visible during boat journey. Witness the engineering marvel and understand its impact on local villages and the changing landscape of the region.

Godavari River Gorge

Spectacular natural gorge where the mighty Godavari narrows between steep hills, creating dramatic twists and turns with breathtaking views and cool river breezes.

Must-Try Experiences

Godavari River Cruise

Embark on an 8-hour boat journey from Rajahmundry through the scenic Papikondalu gorge. Choose between small motor boats (5 people) or larger cruise boats (50-150 capacity) with meals included.

Overnight Bamboo Hut Stay

Experience authentic tribal living in eco-friendly bamboo huts at Kolluru or Sirivaka. Enjoy complete digital detox with no electricity or mobile network, stargazing, and campfire evenings.

Tribal Village Interaction

Meet local Konda Reddy tribal communities at Perantapalli. Learn about their fishing, agriculture, and bamboo handicraft traditions. Purchase authentic handmade bamboo toys and artifacts.

Trekking and Camping

Trek through dense forests with registered guides to explore waterfalls at Munivaatnam. Camp riverside near Perantapalli with opportunities for bird watching and nature photography.

Sunrise and Sunset Views

Watch spectacular sunrises from bamboo huts and mesmerizing sunsets over the Godavari River. The golden hour creates magical reflections on water amidst hill silhouettes.

Local Cuisine

Breakfast: Soft idlis, crispy dosas, spicy pesarattu (green gram pancakes)
Lunch: Pulihora (tamarind rice), fish pulusu, prawn curry with steamed rice
Specialties: Bamboo chicken (marinated chicken cooked in bamboo), royyala iguru (prawn curry), fresh Godavari river fish, grilled crab and prawns

Culture & Local Life

Papikondalu is known as the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh” for its pristine natural beauty. The region is home to indigenous tribal communities like the Konda Reddys who maintain ancient traditions of sustainable living. These tribes are skilled in bamboo handicrafts, traditional fishing, and organic agriculture. The area represents unspoiled nature with deep gorges, dense forests, and the mighty Godavari River flowing through dramatic landscapes. Most villages have minimal modern infrastructure, offering travelers a rare glimpse into off-grid living. The region holds mythological significance, believed to be visited by Lord Rama and Sita during their exile.

Local Insights

Languages: Telugu (official), English and Hindi understood in tourist areas

Getting Around: Boat is the primary mode of transport; auto-rickshaws and taxis available in Rajahmundry; no mobile network in many areas

Safety Tips: Carry sufficient cash (limited ATMs), inform family about network unavailability, follow guide instructions during treks, book boats through authorized operators only, avoid swimming in Godavari without local guidance

Enjoy Your Yatra!