Slumber with the sound of the river. Kolluru is best experienced as an overnight stop on the Papikondalu river-tourism circuit. The riverside bamboo huts provide a simple, rustic accommodation experience amid the forested Godavari landscape. Facilities are basic and vary according to the current operator and package. The setting offers an opportunity to experience the river, surrounding hills, night skies, and quiet atmosphere away from urban centres.
During the day, visitors can enjoy the surrounding river landscape and, where permitted and included in the itinerary, explore nearby scenic areas. Wildlife such as birds and monkeys occurs in the wider forest region, while sightings of larger animals such as elephants are possible but should never be expected or approached. Food arrangements vary by package; some multi-day tours provide vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Visitors should avoid littering, respect forest regulations, and follow instructions from guides and local staff.
Visitor Information – Timings & Access
Address & Access
Kolluru Bamboo Huts
Kolluru Village, V.R. Puram Mandal,
Alluri Sitharama Raju District,
Andhra Pradesh
Primary access: By boat as part of Papikondalu river-cruise itineraries.
Common route: Bhadrachalam → Pochavaram → Godavari river cruise → Kolluru, depending on the operator and itinerary.
Booking & Contact
Telangana Tourism, Bhadrachalam: +91-8743-232123
AP Tourism, Rajahmundry: +91-883-2471100
Package cost: Prices vary by operator, season, boarding point, transport, accommodation and meal inclusions. Confirm the current tariff before booking.
Timings & Best Season
Best season: November – March is generally the more comfortable period for river travel.
Monsoon: Heavy rain and high river levels can restrict or suspend boat operations. Confirm current conditions before travelling.
Check-in: Usually during the afternoon on multi-day itineraries, but the exact time varies by operator.
Check-out: Normally the following morning according to the cruise schedule.
Entry Fee: Accommodation and access are generally handled through the tour package; confirm current charges and inclusions.
Note: Kolluru is in a forested and riverine environment. Follow forest and boating regulations, avoid loud noise and littering, and carry insect repellent, a torch, personal medicines and sufficient essentials. Facilities are basic and may vary by accommodation provider.
How to Reach Kolluru & Bamboo Huts
From Bhadrachalam (common route): Multi-day Papikondalu packages commonly begin at Bhadrachalam and involve a road transfer to Pochavaram, followed by a Godavari boat journey toward Papikondalu and Kolluru.
- Bhadrachalam to Pochavaram: The commonly used road transfer is approximately 70 km, although the exact route and travel time can vary.
- Pochavaram to Kolluru: Travel is by boat along the Godavari; the duration depends on the route, river conditions, sightseeing stops and operator schedule.
- Perantalapalli: Some itineraries include a sightseeing halt at Perantalapalli before continuing toward Kolluru.
- Overnight: Multi-day itineraries may arrive at Kolluru during the afternoon or evening, depending on the day's route.
From Rajahmundry (AP side): Papikondalu cruises operate from the Rajahmundry/Polavaram region, and some itineraries may include Kolluru or nearby river destinations. Confirm the current boarding point and route with the operator.
Independent boat travel: River access should be arranged only through authorized operators and in accordance with current boating, forest and safety regulations. Do not assume that an independent private boat can access every location.
Road access: There is no normal direct tourist road route to the riverside bamboo-hut accommodation. The destination is primarily experienced through the Godavari cruise network.
What to See & Do Around Kolluru
2-Day / 1-Night Itinerary (Kolluru Stay)
Illustrative Day 1 – Journey to the huts:
- Morning – Assemble at the designated departure point in Bhadrachalam.
- Road transfer – Travel to Pochavaram, approximately 70 km from Bhadrachalam.
- River journey – Board the boat and cruise through the Godavari and Papikondalu landscape.
- Perantalapalli halt: Some itineraries include Sri Krishna Munivaatam and the surrounding landscape.
- Afternoon/evening – Continue toward Kolluru and check into the bamboo-hut accommodation.
- Evening – Dinner and leisure according to the package arrangements.
- Overnight – Stay at Kolluru, subject to accommodation availability.
Illustrative Day 2 – Return journey:
- Morning – Breakfast and departure according to the operator's schedule.
- Boat journey – Return toward Pochavaram or continue along the designated cruise route.
- Road transfer – Continue from the river boarding point toward Bhadrachalam or the package's designated destination.
- Tour ends according to the operator's itinerary.
All timings are illustrative. Actual departure, arrival, sightseeing stops, meal arrangements and return times vary according to operator, season, weather, river conditions and government restrictions.
Bamboo Huts – What to Expect
The bamboo-hut accommodation at Kolluru is intended to provide a simple riverside experience rather than a conventional hotel stay. Facilities can vary according to the current operator and season.
- Basic sleeping arrangements.
- Simple lighting and essential facilities, depending on the accommodation provider.
- Basic bathroom facilities may be provided.
- Riverside or scenic outdoor space around the accommodation.
What to carry: Torch or headlamp, power bank, towel, toiletries, insect repellent, personal medicines, drinking water and a light blanket or warm layer during cooler months. Do not expect luxury facilities.
Safety: Follow instructions from tour staff and forest personnel. Avoid walking alone after dark, approaching wildlife, or entering the river without explicit permission and suitable safety conditions.
Essential Tips & Eco-Rules
Leave no trace: Kolluru lies within a sensitive forest and river environment. Carry back non-biodegradable waste, minimize plastic use, and respect local communities. Do not feed wildlife, approach wild animals, or enter restricted areas. Ask permission before photographing local residents or participating in cultural activities.
Alternative Stays Near Kolluru
Forest / Riverside Accommodation
- Basic accommodation may be available through authorized tourism or forest arrangements, subject to current availability.
- Advance confirmation is essential because facilities in the remote river region are limited.
- Meal and transport arrangements should be confirmed separately unless included in the package.
Bhadrachalam
- Offers a wider choice of hotels and pilgrim accommodation.
- Useful as a base before or after the Papikondalu cruise.
Kunavaram
- Provides access to the Godavari river system and nearby Papikondalu destinations.
- Accommodation and boat availability should be confirmed before travel.
Rajahmundry
- A larger urban base with hotels, restaurants and transport connections for visitors using the AP-side cruise routes.
Location Map – Kolluru Area
Kolluru, V.R. Puram Mandal, Alluri Sitharama Raju District, Andhra Pradesh
Seasonal Guide – When to Experience Kolluru
November – March: Generally considered the more comfortable period for river travel, outdoor sightseeing and overnight stays.
April – June: Hotter conditions can make daytime travel less comfortable. Carry sufficient water and sun protection.
July – October: Monsoon rainfall can raise river levels and affect boating. Services may be restricted or suspended during unsafe conditions. Confirm the current operating status before travelling.
Tip: Weather and river conditions can change quickly in the Papikondalu region. Follow the advice of the tour operator and local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it possible to stay overnight at Kolluru?
A: Yes. Bamboo-hut accommodation has been associated with multi-day Papikondalu tourism packages. Availability, facilities and booking arrangements vary and should be confirmed in advance.
Q: Are there charging points?
A: Electricity and charging facilities may be limited at remote accommodation. Carry a fully charged power bank and do not rely on continuous mains electricity.
Q: What about toilets and bathing?
A: Basic bathroom facilities may be available, but standards vary. Confirm the current facilities with the operator before booking.
Q: Can we book only the huts without the full package?
A: Availability of hut-only bookings can vary. Many visitors use organized multi-day Papikondalu packages; confirm directly with the current operator or authorized tourism authority before making independent arrangements.
Q: Is non-vegetarian food available?
A: Some current multi-day Papikondalu packages provide non-vegetarian meals, while vegetarian options may also be available. Confirm the exact menu and inclusions with the operator.
Q: Are there mosquitoes?
A: In a riverside forest environment, insects and mosquitoes can be present. Carry insect repellent and appropriate clothing.
Q: Can we see wildlife from the huts?
A: Wildlife occurs in the surrounding forest region, but sightings are unpredictable. Never approach, feed or attempt to photograph wild animals at close range.
Q: Is mobile network available?
A: Connectivity can be limited in remote Papikondalu locations. Do not rely on continuous mobile coverage and inform family or companions before travelling.