Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Hyderabad Metro Rail: Connecting the City with Speed and Innovation

City bursting with technological growth and cultural heritage, the Hyderabad Metro Rail has emerged as a modern lifeline—delivering efficiency, comfort, and futuristic transit to millions of commuters. From its launch in 2017 to becoming one of India’s most intelligent metro systems, Hyderabad Metro has reshaped urban mobility and earned global recognition in infrastructure excellence.

Quick Facts at a Glance

  • Operator: Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL), with Larsen & Toubro holding 90% equity and the Telangana government 10%

  • Inception: Operations began on November 29, 2017 from Miyapur to Nagole

  • Network: Three fully elevated corridors—Red, Green, and Blue Lines—serving 57 stations

  • Daily Ridership: Around 536,000 (July 2023), reaching over 560,000 daily on peak days

  • Rolling Stock: Hyundai Rotem 3-car trains, speeds 35–40 km/h (up to 80 km/h), headways of 3.5–7 minutes

Technological Excellence: Metro of the Future

Hyderabad Metro sets new standards in urban rail tech with:

  • CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control): India’s first elevated metro using this system, managed via a modern Operations Control Centre in Uppal

  • CBI & Axle Counter Backups: Ensures safe and reliable operations across all three corridors

  • Automatic Train Operation (ATO) and SCADA Systems: For smooth, autonomous operations and real-time monitoring

Expansion: Phase II and Beyond

Hyderabad Metro's next chapter is already taking shape:

  • Old City Corridor: Extending the network from MGBS to Chandrayangutta (7.5 km), groundwork advancing despite funding delays

  • Airport (Purple) Corridor: A proposed 36.8 km route linking Nagole to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport with 24 new stations—pending central approval

  • Phase 2 Corridors: DPRs finalized for routes including JBS–Medchal, LB Nagar–Hayath Nagar, and Miyapur–Patancheru, totaling 86.1 km at ₹19,579 crore

  • Political Support: State leaders are urging the Centre to fast-track approvals to meet infrastructure goals

Global Recognition: A Case Study for Success

The Hyderabad Metro Rail has caught international attention: Harvard University published a case study highlighting it as “one of the largest PPP metro projects globally”, praising its execution despite challenges like land acquisition, protests, and financial bottlenecks.

Why It Matters

  • Ease of Urban Mobility: A seamless, modern transit network easing daily commuting

  • Technology-Driven: Combining safety, efficiency, and automation in operations

  • Smart Expansion: Building wider access through new corridors and airport linkages

  • Model Infrastructure: A replicable blueprint for public–private partnership success

How to Buy Metro Tickets

Hyderabad Metro offers multiple convenient options for ticketing:

  • Ticket Counters: Available at all metro stations for paper tickets and tokens.

  • Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Self-service kiosks at stations where you can buy single-journey tokens or recharge smart cards.

  • Smart Cards: Reloadable cards that allow seamless entry/exit at gates—ideal for daily commuters.

  • Mobile Apps: The official TSavaari app lets passengers buy QR tickets online and scan them directly at entry gates.

  • Digital Wallets/UPI: Supported at TVMs and apps for quick cashless payments.

     

    Hyderabad Metro Rail card
    Hyderabad Metro Card

     p.c : L&T Hyderabad Metro Rail

The Hyderabad Metro Rail isn’t just another transit system—it symbolizes resilience, innovation, and long-term urban vision. With robust core operations, smart expansion plans, and international recognition, it’s redefining how a modern city moves and thrives.

Thursday, November 9, 2017

Hyderabad Rockathon

The 6th Hyderabad Rockathon is being organised by the Society to Save Rocks, in association with the Great Hyderabad Adventure Club (GHAC). It is a day long event that caters to all age groups for a fun time in the rocks combining adventure, fitness and rock awareness. To be held on 12th November, 2017. The venue will be the beautiful rocky hill of Fakhruddingutta (Khajaguda) behind Lanco Hills in Manikonda.
The programmes will be manifold from adventurous (rappelling and zip-lining, trail-biking, rock walks and bouldering) to educational (Rock Quiz, Snake Awareness Programme) to pure fun (Rock Balancing, Treasure Hunt, Slack Lining, Rock Tattoos and Rock Selfies). There will be activities for every age and every level.


Friday, October 20, 2017

Visakhapatnam-Kakinada sea cruise

The Visakhapatnam–Kakinada Sea Cruise is an exciting tourism initiative launched to showcase the stunning coastline of Andhra Pradesh. This cruise service connects the bustling city of Visakhapatnam (Vizag) with the historic port city of Kakinada, offering travelers a mix of luxury, leisure, and breathtaking ocean views. It is a perfect getaway for tourists, honeymooners, and families seeking a unique travel experience along the Bay of Bengal

 Highlights of the Sea Cruise

  • 🚢 Modern Cruise Ship Facilities – Equipped with luxury cabins, onboard dining, and entertainment.

  • 🌊 Scenic Bay of Bengal Views – Experience sunrise and sunset from the deck.

  • 🎶 Cultural Performances – Onboard programs showcasing Andhra’s rich heritage.

  • 🍲 Multi-Cuisine Dining – From Andhra delicacies to international dishes.

  • 🏝 Shore Excursions – Explore Kakinada’s Hope Island and nearby beaches.

Route & Travel Details

  • Starting Point: Visakhapatnam Port

  • Destination: Kakinada Port

  • Travel Duration: Approx. 8–10 hours, depending on weather conditions.

  • Distance by Sea: Nearly 150 km along the Andhra coastline.

Ticket Price & Booking

  • 🎟 Ticket Price Range: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per person (varies based on cabin type).

  • 💻 Booking Options:

    • Official Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) portal

    • Authorized travel operators and cruise booking platforms

    • Walk-in bookings at Vizag and Kakinada ports (subject to availability)

Best Time to Take the Cruise

  • October to March – Pleasant weather and calm seas make this the ideal time.

  • Avoid monsoon months (June–September) due to rough sea conditions.

Nearby Attractions

In Visakhapatnam (Starting Point):

In Kakinada (Destination):

  • Hope Island – A serene eco-tourism spot accessible by boat.

  • Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary – Famous for mangroves and birdwatching.

  • Uppada Beach – Known for silk weaving and calm coastal charm.

Why Choose the Vizag–Kakinada Cruise?

  • A unique way to experience Andhra Pradesh’s coast.

  • Offers both luxury and adventure for domestic and international tourists.

  • Perfect for weekend getaways, corporate trips, and family holidays.

FAQs

1. How often does the Vizag–Kakinada cruise operate?
The cruise usually runs on selected weekends and holidays, depending on demand and weather conditions.

2. Can families and kids travel on this cruise?
Yes, it is family-friendly with safe cabins and entertainment for all age groups.

3. What facilities are available onboard?
Cabins, dining halls, cultural programs, lounges, and deck viewing areas.

4. Are pets allowed on the cruise?
Most services do not allow pets for safety reasons.

5. How to book tickets?
Through the APTDC official portal or authorized travel agencies.

Conclusion

The Visakhapatnam–Kakinada Sea Cruise is a shining example of Andhra Pradesh’s growing focus on coastal tourism and luxury travel. Blending natural beauty, cultural experiences, and modern comforts, the cruise offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the Bay of Bengal. Whether you’re a tourist, a honeymooner, or a family traveler, this sea voyage promises memories you’ll cherish forever.


Saturday, October 14, 2017

Guntupalli Buddhist Caves -Jeelakarragudem

Exploring Guntupalli’s Buddhist Caves & Monuments

 Nestled amid the scenic hills of West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, the Jeelakarragudem (Guntupalli) Caves are a rare glimpse into India’s Buddhist past. This lesser-known archaeological gem presents rock-cut chaityas, monastic cells, stupas, and ancient mandapas—constructs dating as far back as the 3rd century BC. Let’s uncover the secrets of this tranquil site and why it deserves a spot on the heritage map. 
 
Jeelakarragudem, village belonging to Guntupalle is located at the distance of 6.4 kms from Kamarvarapukota and 47 kms from Eluru, westgodavari. 
  
Buddhist guntupalli caves

Guntupalli is dotted with some of the finest specimens of monolithic and structural Buddhist remains datable to the 3rd-2nd century BC to 5th-6th century AD. The important monuments located are: rock cut temple or vritta chaitya, large monastery, small monastery, brick chaitya, ruined mandapa, stone stupa and cluster of votive stupas.

Rock cut Temple(Vritta Chaitya): Datable to the 3rd-2nd century BC, the vritta chaitya is circular on plan and enshrines a rock cut votive stupa provided with a small circumambulatory path around it. Locally known as Dharmalingeswara, it has vaulted domical ceiling marked by carved ribs while its exterior shows an arched facade, with ornamental rafts resembling famous Sudama and Lamasrishi caves of Bihar.
Large Monastery: Excavated into the sandstone cliff, the monastery contains a series of cells of varying dimensions meant for the monks to live in. It has a main entrance with the windows on sides, a narrow terrace and verandah. Both the entrances as well as the widows invariably bear arched facades akin to that of vritta chaitya. Marked by its simplicity the entire monastery is devoid of any ornamentation or decoration and thus attributed to the earliest Buddhist monastic architecture. Some of the cells were provided with deep cut channels to facilitate the rainwater drain in to a natural fissure located on the backside of the monastery.
Small Monastery: This rock cut vihara, located at a higher elevation of the hill is relatively smaller in dimension. In all there are five cells in it, which are crudely excavated and some remained unfinished. Due to the ravages of nature its façade was badly affected leaving behind traces of gables on it.
Group of Stupas: Located on one of the terraces of hilltop and numbering more than sixty, these votive stupas erected on different occasions and time frames vary in their shape, size and mode of construction. Fashioned out of stone and also in brick, these votive stupas were set up on stone or brick basements. Amongst them are also seen small apsidal and circular votive chaityas.
Stone stupa: Datable to the 2nd century BC, this stupa with block stone veneering was subjected to partial excavations in the last quarter of 19th century. Considerable damage was done to its dome by the treasure hunters even before the excavations. The dome measures 2.62m height and 4.88m dia was erected over a circular basement. The excavations have yielded a stone relic casket containing gold and rock crystal.
Ruined Mandapa: The monument, presently represented by four standing broken stumps of the pillars was once supposed to be part of a large pillared assembly hall meant for the monks. An inscribed stone pillar retrieved during the clearance work speaks of the existence of a pillared mandapa, which received donations from the 1st to 5th century AD. The dimension of the original assembly hall was estimated as 56 ft.x34ft and was provided with entrance porches on eastern and western sides respectively.
Circular Brick Chaitya Griha: Datable to C. 3rd-2nd century BC, it is at the eastern extreme of the hill over an elevated terrace, approached by a long flight of stone steps. A record of an upasika datable to 2nd-1st century BC refers to the setting up of these stone steps at the entrance platform. Its external diameter is 11 m and has an imposing adhistana. The wall of chaityagriha rises to 80 cm height and measure 2.14 m wide. It houses a stupa at the center. The circumambulatory path around the stupa is 1.38 m wide.


votive stupas Guntupalli

Buddhist monastic cells Jeelakarra Gudem

Buddhist Monuments guntupalli


Jeelakarragudem rock-cut chaitya


Buddhist Monuments guntupalli

Buddhist Monuments guntupalli

Buddhist Monuments guntupalli

Buddhist Monuments.
 

Visiting Details and Tips

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Cooler months (October–March) are ideal to explore comfortably.
  • How to Reach: Located near Guntupalli; closest town is Kamavarapukota (~6 km away). Combine the visit with nearby heritage sites like Belum Caves for a full-day heritage excursion.
  • On-site Essentials: Wear sturdy shoes, pack water and snacks, and plan for a light trek upward to the terraces.

 Though less talked about, these sites resonate deeply with heritage explorers and historians—capturing quiet reverence and ancient craftsmanship. 
 
“The rock-cut part… has two Buddhist caves, a chaitya hall and a large group of stupas… the chaitya hall has a rare carved stone entrance replicating wooden architecture…”
 
Quick Itinerary Suggestion
TimeActivity
MorningArrive at Jeelakarragudem → Explore monastery caves and chaityas
MiddayAscend to the stupa terrace → Photograph votive stupas
AfternoonVisit the ruined mandapa and brick chaitya → Reflect in the serene surroundings   





Explore Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train, operated by IRCTC.
 

Nearby Attractions

 
 

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

World Tourism Day celebrations at RK Beach, Visakhapatnam

VISAKHAPATNAM: The state-wide World Tourism Day -2017 is celebrating at RK Beach, Vizag on September 27. 6 days event Dasaravali will be held at RK Beach.This festival will continue from September 27th to till October 2nd.
Cultural programmes showcasing orchestra, dances from Uttarandhra, Odisha and Sambalpur, magic show, folk theatre would be held from 4 pm onwards.
Food courts would be set up at R K Beach while the night bazar at Shilparamam would commence on September 27.  

 

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Indian Photography Festival (IPF) Hyderabad-2017

The Indian Photography Festival (IPF), which will started on September 8 in Hyderabad, Madhapur, the festival spreads its wings wider this time with 525 photographers from 40 countries.
Pitched as a non-profit initiative by the Light Craft Foundation in association with Telangana Tourism, the fest brings together images across a spectrum of genres, from portraits to landscape, abstracts to news photographs. The photo fest is built in collaboration with photo agencies across the globe to facilitate cultural exchange. “This helps our photographers, particularly from Hyderabad, to showcase their work abroad. Earlier this year a few photographers exhibited their work in Georgia, last year we took the work to Auckland and Sydney and we are in talks to showcase in Slovenia in addition to China,” says Aquin Mathews, festival director.

Key exhibitions
Before it’s too late by Mathieu Willcocks (UK)
Landscape by Cecilia Paredes (Peru)
Philippines Drug Wars by Kate Geraghty (Australia)
Celebrity portraits by the photographers from Sydney Morning Herald
The Rescue by Francesco Giusti (Italy)
The Hungry Tide by Swastik Pal (India)
Empathy by Sudharak Olwe (India)
Head On Photo Festival (Australia)
Water by Hikari Creative — IPF Portrait Prize (India)
Venues: State Gallery of Art, The Gallery café, Srishti Art Gallery, Inorbit Mall, Goethe Zentrum, IIT Hyderabad, Saamanya Shastram, Shilparamam, Chowmahalla Palace, Lamakaan and Deja Brew Art Café.
IPF opens on September 21, 5pm, at State Gallery of Art, Kavuri Hills, Madhapur, and will continue till October 8. For a detailed schedule and to register for workshops, look up www.indianphotofest.com

Thursday, September 14, 2017

World’s tallest giant wheel soon in Andhra Pradesh's Amaravati

AMARAVATI: Euro Destination India (UDI) has come forward to set up the world’s tallest  Giant Wheel at an estimated cost of `440 crore in the capital city of Amaravati of Andhra Pradesh. The UDI will set up the giant wheel. While Italy-based Fabbri Group will extend the necessary technological support for setting up the Ferris Wheel, Turkey-based Polin Water Park will be the partners in developing the surroundings of the giant wheel as a tourist attraction as part of Amaravati Tourism.
UDI managing director M Krishna Rao and Fabbri Group president Gianluca gave a presentation to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, which will be developed in three phases.Currently the 167.6 m (550-foot) Ferris Wheel in Las Vegas of US is the world’s tallest giant wheel.

The Chief Minister named for the giant wheel as ‘Amaravati Buddha Chakra’.



Image source: Pinterest

Friday, September 8, 2017

India's first Hyperloop in Andhra Pradesh to connect Amravati and Vijaywada

AMARAVATI:
An hour-long journey between Vijayawada and Amaravati, could well become a Five minute affair thanks to the agreement signed by Andhra Pradesh government with Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT). Under the agreement, HTT will develop a Hyperloop transportation route between the cities of Amaravati and Vijaywada, reducing the one-hour trip to as little as just Five minutes, if successful. The agreement will employ a public private partnership model funded primarily from private sources to fund its construction.

The Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (AP-EDB) and the US-based Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT) signed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Amaravati. The MoU was signed by HTT chairman and co-founder Bibop Gresta and AP-EDB CEO J Krishna Kishore. While an official release on the MoU did not disclose the probable cost of the project, Krishna Kishore told ET that the project will involve little over $200 Mn of investment and take a year or so to complete it once all the approvals and Right of Way were in place.

If all goes well, this could be the first Hyperloop project to be implemented in India. HTT says it expects to generate 2,500 jobs during the project. The two-phase plan includes first conducting a feasibility study beginning in October, which is expected to last around six months. In phase 2, the actual construction of the Hyperloop  will begin.


Hyperloop india
Hyperloop-India

INS Kursura Submarine Museum – Vizag

The INS Kursura (S20) is one of the most unique attractions in Visakhapatnam (Vizag), Andhra Pradesh. Once a powerful submarine of the Indian Navy, INS Kursura has now been converted into a submarine museum, giving visitors a chance to step inside a real submarine and experience naval history up close.

Commissioned in 1969, INS Kursura served the Indian Navy for over 31 years before being decommissioned in 2001. After retirement, it was preserved on the Ramakrishna Beach (RK Beach) in Vizag and turned into a museum — the first submarine museum in South Asia

INS Kursura Submarine Museum 

Highlights of INS Kursura

  • A real submarine that participated in important naval operations.

  • Offers insight into the life of submariners and how they worked under the sea.

  • Exhibits include navigation equipment, communication systems, and weapon controls used by the Navy.

  • Managed and maintained by former Navy personnel, who share fascinating stories and facts.

Timings of INS Kursura Submarine Museum

  • Opening Hours: 2:00 PM – 8:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)

  • Closed: Mondays and Public Holidays

  • Best Time to Visit: Evening hours, when the beach area comes alive with lights and cool sea breeze.

Note: Timings may change on special occasions or for maintenance.

Entry Fee

  • Adults: ₹40 – ₹60 (approx.)

  • Children: ₹20 – ₹30 (approx.)

  • Camera/Video charges may apply separately.

Why Visit?

Visiting INS Kursura is not just about seeing a submarine; it is about experiencing the courage and discipline of the Indian Navy. The museum highlights the challenges faced by submariners and India’s naval strength.



Friday, September 1, 2017

Heli tourism in Andhra Pradesh (Vijayawada, Tirupati , Vizag )

Heli Tourism in Andhra Pradesh: Soaring Above the State's Hidden Wonders

Imagine drifting over the deep gorges of the Grand Canyon of India, hovering above ancient temples untouched by time, and landing in the lush, coffee plantations of a serene valley—all in a single day. This isn't a dream; it's the thrilling reality of heli tourism in Andhra Pradesh.

The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has launched innovative helicopter services, transforming how travelers experience the state's diverse landscapes. It’s more than just travel; it's an exclusive, bird's-eye view of heritage, nature, and adventure. Ready for the ride of a lifetime? Let's explore.                          Heli tourism in Andhra Pradesh

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour in Andhra Pradesh?

  • Save Precious Time: Cover vast distances in minutes, not hours. Visit Araku Valley, Borra Caves, and Vizag in a single day without exhausting road trips.

  • Unbeatable Aerial Perspectives: Witness the breathtaking scale of Gandikota Canyon or the intricate coastline of Vizag from an angle few ever get to see.

  • Luxury and Exclusivity: Helicopter tours offer a premium, intimate travel experience, perfect for special occasions, corporate retreats, or the discerning traveler.

  • Access Remote Locations: Reach pristine and less-accessible destinations effortlessly, making your itinerary truly unique.

Top Heli Tourism Packages in Andhra Pradesh

Here are some of the most popular and spectacular helicopter tours you can book:

1. Visakhapatnam (Vizag) to Araku Valley & Borra Caves

This is the flagship heli-tourism route and an absolute must-do.

  • The Experience: Take off from Vizag and fly over the Eastern Ghats, watching the landscape transform from urban coastline to rolling green hills. The helicopter lands at Araku, allowing you to explore the famous Araku Valley and its coffee museum. The tour often includes a flyover of the magnificent Borra Caves, a million-year-old limestone marvel.

  • Highlights: Aerial views of the Bay of Bengal, lush valleys, and the ancient caves.

2. The Gandikota Grand Canyon Tour

For the adventure seeker and landscape photographer, this is unparalleled.

  • The Experience: Fly towards the Pennar River canyon, famously known as the "Grand Canyon of India." From above, the sheer scale and vibrant hues of the gorge are mesmerizing. The tour typically includes a landing, allowing you to walk along the canyon's edge and visit the historic Gandikota Fort.

  • Highlights: Breathtaking views of the canyon, Pennar River snaking through the rocks, and the 13th-century fort.

3. Spiritual & Heritage Circuit (Tirupati to Lepakshi)

Combine divine blessings with aerial grandeur.

  • The Experience: Begin in the spiritual capital, Tirupati, and soar over the Tirumala hills for a unique view of the sacred temple. The helicopter then flies to Lepakshi, home to a magnificent Vijayanagara-era temple complex famous for its hanging pillar and intricate sculptures.

  • Highlights: A unique perspective of Tirumala, seamless travel between two major heritage sites.

4. Coastal Beauty Tour (Kakinada to Konaseema)

Explore the serene backwaters and lush landscapes of coastal Andhra.

  • The Experience: Discover the "God's Own Creation" of Andhra—the Konaseema region. Fly over a network of waterways, coconut groves, and picturesque villages that resemble Kerala's backwaters. The tour offers a tranquil and visually stunning experience.

  • Highlights: Aerial views of the Godavari delta, lush green fields, and peaceful waterways.

Practical Information: Booking Your Heli Tour

How to Book a Helicopter Tour

Bookings are primarily handled by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC).

  • Website: Visit the official APTDC website (aptdc.gov.in) for the most current packages and pricing.

  • Heli Tourism Counters: You can book directly at the APTDC counters in Vizag, Tirupati, and Vijayawada.

  • Authorized Agents: Several registered tour operators are also authorized to make bookings.

Approximate Cost

Prices vary based on the route, duration, and type of charter (shared or private). Generally, per-person costs for a shared tour can range from ₹ 4,000 to ₹ 10,000. Private charters will be significantly higher. Always check the official website for the latest tariffs.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Advance Booking: These tours are highly popular and have limited seats. Book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays.

  • Weather Dependency: Helicopter flights are subject to weather conditions. Flights may be delayed or rescheduled due to poor visibility or rain.

  • Weight Restrictions: There are strict weight limitations for safety reasons. Confirm these details at the time of booking.

  • Identification: Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Passport, Aadhar Card, Voter ID) for verification before boarding.

FAQs About Heli Tourism in Andhra Pradesh

Q1: Are helicopter tours in Andhra Pradesh safe?
A: Absolutely. APTDC operates these tours with reputable aviation partners, adhering to all DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) safety norms. The aircraft are well-maintained and flown by experienced pilots.

Q2: What is the best time of year for a helicopter tour?
A: The ideal time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, with clear skies offering the best visibility for aerial photography.

Q3: Can children and senior citizens go on these tours?
A: Yes, these tours are generally suitable for all age groups. However, it's advisable to consult with a doctor if anyone has serious health conditions or a fear of heights.

Q4: How long is a typical helicopter tour?
A: Most tours are designed as day trips. The actual flight time can range from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on the route, with additional time for ground exploration.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Travel Experience

Heli tourism is not just a mode of transport; it's the centerpiece of an unforgettable adventure. It allows you to witness the stunning diversity of Andhra Pradesh—from its majestic canyons and serene valleys to its timeless temples and vast coastlines—in a way that is both luxurious and exhilarating.

Heli tourism in Andhra Pradesh

Saturday, June 24, 2017

Bhavani Island,vijayawada

Bhavani Island – A Perfect Blend of Nature, Adventure, and Relaxation.

Nestled in the middle of the serene Krishna River, Bhavani Island in Vijayawada is one of the largest river islands in India, spread across nearly 130 acres. Known for its lush greenery, scenic views, and adventure activities, the island has become a must-visit destination for families, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers visiting Andhra Pradesh.

 Bhavani Island

 How to Reach Bhavani Island

  • By Road: Vijayawada is well-connected by road, and the island is just a few kilometers away from the city center.

  • By Boat: Visitors can reach the island via boat rides operated by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) from Bhavani Ghat near the city.

  • The short ferry ride itself is a scenic experience, offering breathtaking views of the Krishna River.

Top Attractions and Activities

  1. Adventure Sports

    • Jet skiing, zorbing, and speed boating are popular water activities.

    • Rope courses, ATV rides, and climbing walls are available for adventure enthusiasts.

  2. Leisure and Nature Walks

    • Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens surrounded by tall trees.

    • Relax in peaceful spots ideal for family picnics or photography.

  3. Kids-Friendly Zone

    • Play zones and safe adventure games make it a great spot for children.

  4. Stay Options

    • APTDC offers cottages, tree houses, and luxury resorts right on the island.

    • Overnight stays allow you to experience the island’s tranquility after sunset.

Why Visit Bhavani Island?

  • Escape the busy city life with a calm natural retreat.

  • Perfect for weekend getaways, family outings, and romantic trips.

  • A unique blend of spiritual aura, since the island is named after Goddess Kanaka Durga (Bhavani), whose temple is nearby in Vijayawada.

Nearby Attractions

Travel Tips

  • Best time to visit: October to March when the weather is pleasant.

  • Carry light clothing and sunscreen for daytime activities.

  • Pre-book cottages or resorts during weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute rush.


Bhavani Island

Bhavani Island 
 
Bhavani Island


Bhavani Island

Bhavani Island

Bhavani Island
                                                    

Bhavani Island

VISIT Vijayawada Utsav 2025