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.
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
Adventure Sports
Jet skiing, zorbing, and speed boating are popular water activities.
Rope courses, ATV rides, and climbing walls are available for adventure enthusiasts.
Leisure and Nature Walks
Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens surrounded by tall trees.
Relax in peaceful spots ideal for family picnics or photography.
Kids-Friendly Zone
Play zones and safe adventure games make it a great spot for children.
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.
Adventure Sports Explore more on : Amaravati Boating Club
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
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Amaravati Stupa – A significant Buddhist heritage site.
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Krishna Riverfront – Scenic ghats and boat rides.
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Undavalli Caves – Rock-cut marvels near Vijayawada.
Prakasam Barrage – Just a short drive away, beautifully lit up in the evenings.
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.
Major Development Plans at Bhavani Island
1. Ropeway Connectivity
A state-of-the-art ropeway connecting the mainland (Punnami Ghat) to Bhavani Island is planned under a PPP model at a cost of ₹12.2 crore. This scenic aerial link will reduce ferry dependency and offer panoramic river views — a first for inland tourism in Andhra Pradesh.
2. Floating Restaurants & Houseboats
Plans are underway to introduce floating restaurants and luxury houseboats on the Krishna River, inspired by Kerala’s backwater experience. This will boost leisure tourism, offering travelers fine dining, sunset cruises, and night stays on the water.
3. Adventure & Water Sports Upgrades
The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) is enhancing Bhavani Island’s adventure offerings. Expect jet skiing, banana rides, kayaking, ziplining, and other water-based thrills with new, modern equipment.
4. Theme-Based Master Plan
Architects from CBT and Studio PoD designed a sustainable master plan featuring:
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An Art & Handicraft Village
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Botanical Gardens and Bird Sanctuaries
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Open-Air Amphitheatre and Maze Garden
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Eco-lodges and river-view cottages
Only 10% of the island will be developed, keeping 90% of the area as green cover, ensuring harmony between tourism and nature.
5. Integrated Circuit Tourism
Bhavani Island is a key part of NTR District’s Circuit Tourism Route, which includes:
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Gandhi Hill
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Kondapalli Fort
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Bapu Museum
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Bhavani Island
This will help tourists explore culture, history, and recreation in a single itinerary.
6. Tourism Goals & Economic Growth
With an investment of ₹167 crore, Andhra Pradesh aims to increase Bhavani Island’s annual revenue from ₹3 crore to ₹5 crore, creating jobs and positioning Vijayawada as a top-tier tourism hub.
Eco-Friendly Focus
All new projects emphasize sustainability:
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Solar energy integration
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Plastic-free tourism
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Green mobility (electric carts)
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Waste management and recycling programs
The approach aims to balance development with environmental care, aligning with India’s green tourism vision.
Visitor Experience
Visitors can already enjoy:
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Riverside cottages and treehouses
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Picnic lawns and play areas
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Boating, kayaking, and water sports
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Cafes, local craft stores, and cultural shows
The ferry from Punnami Ghat offers a 10-minute scenic ride to the island, managed by APTDC.
FAQ Section
1. Where is Bhavani Island located?
Bhavani Island is situated in the Krishna River, about 4 km from Vijayawada city, in Andhra Pradesh. It’s easily accessible by ferry from Punnami Ghat.
2. What are the new attractions being developed?
The major attractions include a ropeway, floating restaurants, houseboats, adventure sports, eco-resorts, and a handicraft village.
3. How can visitors reach Bhavani Island?
Regular ferry services operate from Punnami Ghat (Vijayawada). The ropeway will soon offer a faster, more scenic route once operational.
4. Is Bhavani Island open throughout the year?
Yes, but it’s best visited between October and June. During monsoon, high river flows may temporarily restrict access.
5. What are the eco-tourism initiatives?
Bhavani Island is adopting solar power, waste recycling, and plastic-free policies to promote sustainable tourism.
People Also Ask (PAA) Section
What is special about Bhavani Island Vijayawada?
Bhavani Island stands out as one of India’s largest river islands, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and eco-tourism. Its new development plans will make it a world-class riverfront destination in South India.
Is there a ropeway to Bhavani Island?
A ropeway project connecting Vijayawada’s mainland to Bhavani Island has been approved. Once completed, it will offer a stunning 10-minute aerial ride across the Krishna River, enhancing access and tourism appeal.
What activities are available at Bhavani Island?
Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, banana rides, jet-skiing, rope courses, picnics, and cultural events. Upcoming additions include floating restaurants, camping zones, and art villages.
What are the upcoming projects under Andhra Pradesh Tourism?
The state is focusing on ropeways, floating houses, heritage circuits, and eco-lodges across destinations like Bhavani Island, Araku Valley, and Gandikota, aiming for sustainable tourism growth.
How to reach Bhavani Island from Vijayawada city?
From the city center, take a short drive to Punnami Ghat (around 10 minutes). From there, APTDC ferries operate at regular intervals, taking visitors across the Krishna River to the island.
Conclusion
Bhavani Island is rising as a symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s tourism revival, combining nature, culture, and innovation. With projects like the ropeway, floating restaurants, and eco-resorts, it promises to be a landmark river island destination that blends modern leisure with natural charm — redefining tourism along the Krishna River.
