Pochavaram Boating Point is the primary ferry point for the famous Papikondalu (Papi Hills) boat cruise from the Bhadrachalam side. Located in VR Puram Mandal, Alluri Sitarama Raju district, Andhra Pradesh (formerly part of Khammam district, Telangana), this scenic jetty serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Godavari River gorge. Tourists from Hyderabad and across the country typically visit Bhadrachalam Temple, have darshan of Lord Rama, and then drive 70 km to Pochavaram to set sail on the Godavari. The boat journey from Pochavaram covers approximately 60 km over 5 hours, offering panoramic views of lush green hills, dense forests, sand dunes, and the iconic Papikondalu hills. The boating point operates 22 boats, with services typically running from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The gateway to the Godavari's most scenic gorge. Pochavaram Boating Point is the primary launch point for the spectacular Papikondalu boat cruise from the Bhadrachalam side. Tourists from Hyderabad and across the country typically visit the famous Bhadrachalam Temple, have darshan of Lord Rama, and then set sail on the Godavari River from Pochavaram to reach Papikondalu. The journey involves a 70 km road trip from Bhadrachalam, followed by a 60 km boat ride through the winding Godavari gorge.
While cruising on the boats, tourists can enjoy the bounteous beauty of nature – the winding course of the river, sand dunes, hill ranges, dense vegetation, and sightings of deer along the riverbanks. They can see islands and nomads living on them in their makeshift shelters, and even spot wild animals. On arrival at Papikondalu, visitors can climb up the hill and reach the Sivayalam, where water flows throughout the year. The boat journey is an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual significance.
Boat Services & Operations
Number of Boats: As many as 22 tourism boats operate from the Pochavaram ferry point, including boats from the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). Over 30 tourism boats operate from both ferry points (Gandi Pochamma and Pochavaram) combined.
Timings: Boats start at approximately 9:00 AM and return by 5:00 PM. The journey covers the route from Pochavaram to Perantalapalli and then to Papikondalu, returning to Pochavaram by evening.
Safety: The state government has mandated a complete overhaul of boats to ensure safety, imposing strict regulations on their operation. Boat operators follow all safety norms.
Seasonal Operations: Boat services are typically suspended during the monsoon (July–September) due to flooding in the Godavari River. The peak tourist season runs from Dasara (October) to Sankranti (January), with services resuming once weather conditions improve.
Tour Packages & Charges
From Bhadrachalam (via Pochavaram):
- 1-Day Tour Package: Adult ₹1,000 for boat ride + ₹250 for road travel
- Children (5-10 yrs): ₹800 for boat ride
- Alternative rate: ₹1,200 per person (all-inclusive)
- Includes: Breakfast, vegetarian lunch, and evening snacks on the boat
From Rajahmundry (via Gandi Pochamma):
- Adult: ₹1,250
- Children (5-10 yrs): ₹1,050
- Includes: Breakfast, lunch, evening tea and snacks onboard
Note: APTDC charges a user fee of ₹100 per head for ghat maintenance. Some boats are double-decked with air-conditioning and toilet facilities.
Route & Journey Details
From Bhadrachalam:
- 8:30 AM: Depart from Bhadrachalam (report at Telangana Tourism office, near Sitarama Temple)
- Road journey: 70 km to Pochavaram (approx. 1.5 hours)
- Boat journey: 60 km on the Godavari (approx. 5 hours)
- Route: Pochavaram → Perantalapalli → Papikondalu
- Return: Reach Pochavaram by 5:00 PM, road journey back to Bhadrachalam
From Rajahmundry:
- 7:30 AM: Depart from Rajahmundry
- Road journey: Approximately 40 km to Gandi Pochamma temple
- Boat journey: 8-hour cruise to Papikondalu
Alternative route: Some tourists opt for a full journey between Rajahmundry and Bhadrachalam, changing boats along the way.
Scenic Highlights Along the Cruise
Visitor Information – Timings & Access
Address & Access
Pochavaram Boating Point
VR Puram Mandal, Alluri Sitarama Raju District,
Andhra Pradesh
≈70 km from Bhadrachalam (1.5 hrs drive)
≈35 km from Rajahmundry
≈275 km from Hyderabad
Bookings & Enquiries
Telangana Tourism (Bhadrachalam): +91-8743-232123
APTDC (Rajahmundry): +91-883-2471100
Tickets can be booked on the APTDC website
Best Season & Timings
Peak Season: October – January (Dasara to Sankranti)
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Services suspended due to flooding
Entry Fee: Included in package; ₹100 user fee applies
Note: No well-established ghats or adequate facilities like washrooms along the river. Some boats are equipped with basic amenities, including one or two bedrooms for families at an additional cost.
How to Reach Pochavaram Boating Point
From Bhadrachalam (≈70 km, 1.5 hrs): The most common route for tourists from Hyderabad. Drive from Bhadrachalam to Pochavaram via the Bhadrachalam–Rajahmundry road. The road journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Vehicles up to the boating unit are available. Tourists typically visit Bhadrachalam Temple first, then proceed to Pochavaram.
From Rajahmundry (≈35 km): Take the road to Gandi Pochamma temple (approx. 40 km), then board the boat. Alternatively, proceed to Pochavaram or Pattiseema to board the river cruise.
By Train: Nearest railway stations are Bhadrachalam Road (≈70 km) and Rajahmundry (≈35 km). From there, hire a taxi.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈275 km).
Suggested Itineraries
- 1-Day Tour (from Bhadrachalam): 8:00 AM report at Telangana Tourism office → 8:30 AM drive to Pochavaram (70 km, 1.5 hrs) → 10:00 AM board boat → 5-hour cruise to Papikondalu via Perantalapalli → explore Papikondalu → return to Pochavaram by 5:00 PM → drive back to Bhadrachalam.
- 1-Day Tour (from Rajahmundry): 7:30 AM depart from Rajahmundry → 9:30 AM reach Gandi Pochamma temple → board boat → 8-hour cruise to Papikondalu → return by evening.
- 2-Day / 1-Night Package: Day 1: Bhadrachalam → Pochavaram → boat to Papikondalu → Perantalapalli → stay at Bamboo huts (Kolluru). Day 2: Return boat to Pochavaram → road to Bhadrachalam.
Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation Options
- Bamboo Huts (Kolluru): Basic eco‑huts on the riverbank, included in 2‑day Papikondalu packages.
- Korutur Forest Cottages: Cottages and dormitory for overnight stays, with meals included.
- Bhadrachalam (70 km): Haritha Hotel, Hotel Sara International, TSRTC Guest House, and private lodges.
- Rajahmundry (35 km): Full range of hotels and resorts.
Food & Essentials
- Tour packages include breakfast, vegetarian lunch, and evening snacks.
- Boat operators arrange meals for tourists.
- Carry your own snacks and water – limited facilities at the boating point.
- Bhadrachalam has many vegetarian restaurants near the temple.
Essential Travel Tips & Safety
Safety first: Listen to boat crew at all times. Do not lean over the rails – the current is strong. Swimming is prohibited in deep river stretches. The state government has mandated strict safety regulations for boat operations. Boats are suspended during adverse weather conditions. Tourists complain about lack of amenities like washrooms and shelters – come prepared. The Gandi Pochamma ferry point is expected to get submerged in the backwaters once the Polavaram project is complete. Visit soon to experience the original landscape.
Best Time to Visit
October – January (Peak Season): The best time to visit, with pleasant weather and the highest tourist footfall. Dasara to Sankranti is the busiest period. During Sankranti, nearly 35 boats operate at full capacity, carrying hundreds of tourists.
February – June (Summer): Cruises still operate but can be hot and humid. Summer crowds are growing, with the cruise emerging as a major summer attraction.
July – September (Monsoon): Boat services are suspended due to flooding in the Godavari River. Water levels and adverse weather conditions make operations unsafe.
Special time: The four-month period from Dasara (October) to Sankranti (January) is the most vibrant, with cultural programmes organised on boats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far is Pochavaram from Bhadrachalam?
A: Approximately 70 km (1.5 hours drive).
Q: How long is the boat journey?
A: The boat journey covers 60 km and takes about 5 hours.
Q: What is the cost of the tour?
A: ₹1,000 for boat ride + ₹250 for road travel (adults); children ₹800. Alternative packages at ₹1,200.
Q: Are boats available year-round?
A: No. Services are suspended during monsoon (July–September) due to flooding.
Q: Are there facilities at the boating point?
A: Limited. No well-established ghats or adequate washrooms. Some boats have basic amenities.
Q: Can I book tickets online?
A: Yes, tickets can be booked on the APTDC website.