Papi Kondalu, Andhra Pradesh – A beautiful serene spot away from the bustling urban life

A favourite destination of the nature lovers, Papi Hills is a lovely place and the beautiful scenery, the waterfalls at Munivaatam, and the peaceful atmosphere at this tribal area give a pleasant look and peace to visitors, making it a special attraction for tourists. It is settled for ‘Papi Kondalu’ as the original name for this hill range was ‘Papidi Kondalu’. This range looks like a well designed partition that splits river Godavari, this name was coined. Small water falls, water streams, thick rain forest and other flora and fauna adds to scenic beauty of Papi Kondalu. A legend about Papi Kondalu is the Lord Rama and goddess sita dwelled here during the Vanavasa. The serene atmosphere away from hectic city life filled with tribal atmosphere provides special delight to the tourists.

Places to see at Papi Kondalu: This picturesque location has some sight seeing destinations which includes:

Wild Life Sanctuary

There is a wide variety of natural vegetation in Papi kondalu along with wildlife which is spreading over the 3 districts of state of Andhra Pradesh. The wildlife sanctuary of Papi Kondalu provides habitat for several wild animals such as panthers, tigers, antelopes, spotted deers, hyenas, jackals and several types of birds.

Perantala Palli

Perantala Palli is a scenic place located adjacent to Papi Kondalu. It is a remote tribal village in Velerupadu mandal of Khammam District. Most of the boats operating to Papi Kondalu stop here to give tourists a chance to enjoy the beauty of the place. The Sri Krishna Munivaatam was constructed at this village by Balananda Swamiji in the year 1927. Now this Munivatam is being maintained by a tribal sect Konda Reddys and daily pooja are being performed by them. Beautiful sceneries of Papi Hills and waterfalls at Munivaatam and the peaceful atmosphere at this tribal village will definitely give a solace and charm to the visitors. The idol of Shiva under serpent shade was installed in Munivaatam. The waterfalls at Munivaatam and the serene atmosphere make it a special venue for tourists. Two mountains which were named after Vali and Sugreeva, the monkey kings of Ramayana, are about 3 km away from Perantalapalli.

Nearby attractions of Papikondalu: Rajahmundry, located at a distance of 53km is the cultural capital, of Andhra Pradesh. Rajahmundry is the historical city, with which is noted for its versatile Vedic culture and intellect.

Things to do at Papikondalu: The AP State Tourism Development Corporation conducts journeys by boat on the river Godavari passing through the Papi Hills. This ride is worth enjoying.

Best time to visit Popikondalu: The best time to visit this place is months of early summer i.e. March-April.

How to go ?

By Air

The nearest airport is located at Hyderabad. For those who are arriving by air the best option is to take a taxi from the city of Hyderabad. Hyderabad is also well connected to the rest of the country and also receives many international flights. Travellers can take a taxi from Hyderabad directly to Papi Kondalu. Though it is preferable to halt at Rajahmundry, as there are no accommodation options in  Papi Kondalu.

By Train

Rajhamundry has the nearest railway station and is directly connected to major parts of the country like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Bangalore.

By Road

There are many buses that are available from Hyderabad to Rajhamundry. You can get taxis from Rajhamundry to Papi Kondalu.

Where to stay ?

Papikondalu is ideal for a day trip, as there are no accommodation options available.