Are you tired of running late for work and approaching deadlines? All you ever get these days is stress and no rest? Then Papi kondalu hills are going to be your ultimate escape. This is the nature and trekking lover’s paradise. This range of hills runs along the western side of the river Godavari in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

The scenic beauty of this place allures not only the residents of the state but even people from all over the country. Mother Nature can be felt in its best way here, walk along with the coconut gardens and you can even enjoy the mesmerizing view along the river Godavari. Trekking in Papi kondalu hills is probably the most popular activity here and people come from far to experience the feeling.

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How to reach Papi Kondalu and the best time to visit

Papi Kondalu is accessible from many places and it is very easy to reach as well. Rajahmundry, being just 60 km away, has the nearest railway station and airport. Via flights, you can easily reach Rajahmundry from any major city. Take a taxi from the airport and it will not take you much time to reach your destination. Trains are also connected in the same way. Regular trains are available from different places to Rajahmundry. Papi Kondalu can be reached via road as well. The national highway 5 passes through this area and you can plan a road trip to reach this place.

However, it is always better to take the train or flight. Motorboats, even though in very limited numbers, are also available; you can reach Papi Kondalu taking this route too. If you are here for a short trip, you can rent a car for going around. There are public buses and taxis available but they might charge you more. Renting a car is a more economical option.

The months of October to January are seen as the best times to visit Papi Kondalu. If you are lucky enough to go in November or December, it will be a trip worth remembering for you. The real beauties of the hills come out and it is the most beautiful thing to experience. There are a lot of tourist places in Papi kondalu as well.

Here is a short Papi Kondalu travel guide for you that will definitely help you go around and explore the area better.

Special attractions of Papi Kondalu

1. The Papi Kondalu hills
2. Gandi Pochamma Temple
3. The Perantapalli Village
4. Papi Kondalu national park
5. The Jammalapuram Temple

1. The Papi Kondalu hills

The names of these mountain ranges are a bit quirky, right? Well in Telegu it represents the partition in a woman’s hair. The resemblance to the same made the locals name it Papi Kondalu Hills. The whole area is so beautiful that it is often compared to the scenic beauty as seen in Kashmir. The lush greenery and breath-taking view make it one of the favourite trekking spots among tourists. The tour packages usually do not include trekking, so if you want to do it, you have to plan it individually. People usually go for the Maredumilli to Papi Kondalu deep forest hike. The trail is not very easy to cover, hence make sure you have enough experience and are fit enough.

2. Gandi Pochamma Temple

This beautiful temple is located in the village on Gonduru which lies on the bank of the River Godavari. There are boat services from Pattiseema which take you to this temple. During the daytime, if you visit the temple, the glistening waters of Godavari which can be seen from the temple will make for a lovely experience. There is a minimum fee of two rupees at the entrance and you can have a special darshan at just 5 rupees. The goddess in this temple has many devotees and is considered very sacred.

3. The Perantapalli Village

This picturesque little village is located along the banks of the River Godavari. The two places that attract a lot of tourists is the Ashram of Ramakrishna Muni and the temple of Veereswara Swami. The village is filled with greenery. The hills around the village and the view of the river add a different kind of aesthetic to the area. You will surely find peace and tranquillity in the ashrams. The fresh air of this place will definitely help you detox from city life.

4. Papi Kondalu national park

Stretching over a vast area, this national park probably covers over 1000 square kilometers. It is situated in the eastern and western districts of the Godavari districts. The park has a lot of rich flora and fauna. Even though it was declared a national park in the year 2008, this newly born nature’s paradise has always been very rich in biodiversity. You can enter the park with a mere fee of 10 rupees for an adult and 5 rupees for a child. It is better to visit early when the park opens at 9 am as you can explore a lot by the time it is time for the park to close at around 6 pm.

5. The Jammalapuram Temple

 In the village of Jammalapuram, this temple is a major attraction. The temple is dedicated to Swami Venkateshwara and all around the main temple, there are different smaller temples as well. All these add up to a very pretty and scenic experience. You will definitely feel at peace in the presence of the holy deities.

Why Papi Kondalu?

Why not? This place offers everything the adventure junkie in you needs. The Papi kondalu climate can be a little troublesome with very high temperatures in the summer months although the winters are really pleasant. So, if you are planning to visit this beautiful place, winter is the best time.

This place is so close to nature and the river and hills add on a different kind of aesthetic. With so many places of pilgrimage, find peace in your inner self here in Papi kondalu. The trekking trail can be a bit on the tougher side but the hard work is definitely worth the beautiful and mesmerizing views that are in store on top. So what are you waiting for? Go get your deserved break!