The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) is preparing to launch houseboats at six stunning locations across the state: Vijayawada, Gandikota, Suryalanka, and Rajamahendravaram. Floating stays are set to become a major draw for tourists seeking riverside and backwater experiences. Here’s everything we know so far.
Proposed Houseboat Locations & Status
| Location | Current Status / Known Plans |
|---|---|
| Vijayawada (1 boat) | APTDC has tendered for “maintenance-free” houseboats in freshwater / river sites. Also, earlier proposals aimed at backwaters near Prakasam Barrage in Krishna River noted houseboat plans. |
| Rajamahendravaram (2 boats) | Plans to introduce Kerala-style houseboats on the Godavari River to boost tourism, especially ahead of the 2027 Pushkarams. Experts surveyed ghats, riverbanks, and key launch points in Rajamahendravaram. |
| Konaseema region (Rajamahendravaram area) | Houseboat options already exist in Konaseema (Alcots, main backwaters) as part of houseboat destination promotions. |
| Suryalanka | Suryalanka is under development as a beach and coastal tourism project. APTDC’s portfolio mentions 3 houseboats among its water fleet across 16 locations. It could be one of the future boat deployment sites. |
| Gandikota | Announced interest in boosting tourist water-based activities. Also, seaplane services to Gandikota are planned, which suggests growing investment in water tourism. However, specific confirmed houseboat launches at Gandikota are not yet in public sources. |
| Papikondalu / Rajamahendravaram river cruises | While not exactly “houseboats” for overnight stays in all cases, houseboat-style or lounge boat cruises and floating eateries are being proposed. |
🔎 Why This Is Big: What’s New & Why It Matters
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New Tourism Offerings: Houseboats will add a new dimension to Andhra Pradesh’s river, backwater, and coastal tourism sectors. Floating stays offer relaxing, immersive experiences different from land-based hotels.
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Godavari Pushkarams 2027 is a major upcoming event; houseboating on Godavari is being positioned as one of the attractions in that lead-up.
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Public-Private Models & Expert Input: Kerala houseboat experts have conducted surveys in Godavari region; ghats like in Rajamahendravaram and Kovvur are being considered for jetties and launch points. Suggestions include floating jetties, hybrid vessels, conversion of existing boats, etc.
Infrastructure Tender by APTDC: APTDC is procuring “maintenance-free” houseboats with double-bed rooms, attached toilets, driver cabins, and pantry attendants. Locations include freshwater/river/backwater/saline water sites such as Vijayawada among others.
Under Construction Phage
What’s Still Unclear & What to Watch
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Exact boat counts per location (e.g. Rajamahendravaram: two boats) are not yet confirmed by all official sources.
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Pricing, amenities, overnight stay vs day-only operation schedules are still being worked out in many cases.
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Year of launch for each site is mostly not yet publicly announced(January 2026).
Regulatory / environmental clearances (especially for rivers, backwaters) may influence timelines.
Future deployment Phage
What Visitors Can Expect
When houseboats begin operating, tourists visiting Andhra Pradesh can look forward to:
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Floating stays with modern amenities (double beds, bathrooms, lounges)
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River cruises, scenic views of paddy fields, islands, temples along riverbanks (especially Godavari)
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Day trips and overnight options
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Packages combining houseboat stays + local attractions (temples, beaches, forests)
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Enhancement of coastal and riverside leisure tourism (e.g. floating restaurants, ghats, jetties)
Conclusion
The launch of houseboats in Andhra Pradesh at locations like Vijayawada, Rajamahendravaram, Suryalanka, and possibly Gandikota, signals a fresh wave of tourism innovation. If executed well, these floating stays will offer both locals and travelers unforgettable experiences — blending nature, culture, and serenity. Keep an eye out over the coming months as exact launch dates, boat designs, and packages are revealed. Andhra’s waterways may soon become hotspots for river tourism, bringing new opportunities and attractions.
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