AP Govt Boosts Tourism with New Boat Services and Night Stays Across Rivers and Coastline
By : DC Correspondent
Update: 2025-01-23 06:02 GMT
Vijayawada: The state government is taking special initiatives to boost tourism. It has committed to providing facilities like boat rides in Alleppey, Kerala. The state is preparing tourist boats with all necessary amenities across various rivers and coastal areas, and is encouraging the private sector to get involved. This effort aims to bring renewed enthusiasm to the tourism industry.
The State Tourism Development Corporation has invited expressions of interest from those who wish to operate these boats. The state’s long coastline is a major asset, with around 25 rivers, including Godavari, Krishna, Penna, Nagavali, and Vamsadhara. The government is planning to leverage these waterways to enhance the tourism sector. As part of this initiative, boat services with modern facilities will be launched at five locations. Two boats have already started operating in Dindi, Dr Ambedkar Konaseema district, where they run in the Godavari Vasishta Paya during the day and stop at Haritha Resort after 6 pm. Currently, one boat is used for overnight stays, while the second boat is under repair. The authorities are also making arrangements to operate some of the newly introduced boats at night.
Each boat will have two rooms, a restaurant, and entertainment programs. The government is offering travel packages that allow tourists to enjoy stays on the boat for one or two days.
A new boat service will operate from Vijayawada's Bhavani Island to the holy confluence of the Krishna and Godavari rivers. Tourists can visit several famous temples along the way. Currently, boats are running from Berm Park to Bhavani Island.
For tourists visiting Papikondalu, arrangements will be made to allow overnight stays on the boat for one or two days. The Tourism Development Corporation is currently operating a boat service from Gandipochamma.
A boat service will also run from Antarvedi on the coast in Konaseema district. A special package will allow tourists to stay on the boat overnight. Currently, boats are running under the management of private companies.
A modern boat has been introduced in the YSR district to explore the scenic beauty of Gandikota. You can stay overnight on the boat, which runs from Mylavaram Reservoir to the Gandikota Canal. At present, there are two boats operating in the area, but additional facilities are needed on them.
A boat service will soon be available at the Tajangi Reservoir in Chintapalli mandal of Alluri district. Tourists visiting Lambasingi are encouraged to also visit the Tajangi Reservoir.