Off the coast of Vijayawada, there is an island which appears to be floating on the sea like a lotus and has a history of gods and legends. Bhavani Island Vijayawada is just that – a fairy tale where the difference between reality and fantasy is not easily discernible. It was believed that this island was the favourite hunting ground of the Hindu goddess Bhavani who showered her blessings on the island by making it as beautiful and as peaceful as the calm sea. Today, it is not only the spiritual vibrations but also the adventurous water sports, beautiful nature walks, and the colourful bird life that attract tourists.
Why Bhavani Island Vijayawada Is A Must-Visit
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Bhavani Island Vijayawada is located in the middle of the Krishna River. It is situated upstream of Prakasam Barrage and is one of the biggest river islands of the country, covering an area of about 133 acres. These caves are believed to have been discovered in the 7th century. These are linked with the Vishnu Kundi kings of 420-620 A. D. These caves are associated with Anantha Padmanabha and Lord Narasimha. These were used by the Buddhist monks as Rest Houses.
However, many people do not know that Bhavani Island Vijayawada is more than just a beautiful place to visit; it has a history and mythology attached to it. It is known as the temple of Goddess Bhavani and has been a place of worship for several decades. There is a belief that the goddess meditated here, which is why the land became sacred and calm. On the walk through the island, tourists observe the remnants of ancient worship sites and hear the stories of the inhabitants, which turns the journey into a magical one. The above factors, supported by historical depth and natural beauty, make it an exciting destination for any traveller.
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Bhavani Island Resort
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Situated on the Bhavani Island on the River Krishna, measuring 133 acres, the APTDC’s Bhavani Island Resort is a serene destination with 24 waterfront cottages. Each cottage has individual lounge facilities, sit-outs, and beautiful landscaping to ensure guests have a quiet environment. The resort has a restaurant known as ‘Dwaipayani,’ which provides quality meals, and guests can take breakfast for free while other meals are available at a cost.
The rooms are well furnished and meet all the basic needs of a visitor to the house. The resort is located in a beautiful area and has all the amenities required for a comfortable stay for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Dining At Bhavani Island Vijayawada
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Regarding food, dining on Bhavani Island is a culinary experience that combines local Andhra spices and seafood caught from the river. The island’s cuisine reflects traditional Andhra Pradesh food, which is spicy and uses tamarind as the main ingredient. The popular local dish that you should not miss is the Pesarattu. This green gram dosa is savoury and is usually accompanied by a spicy ginger chutney and a tangy tamarind sauce.
The origins of this cuisine can be dated back to the prehistoric period of agriculture when people consumed foods such as lentils, rice, and fresh herbs. As the years passed, the cuisine changed and adopted the influences of the neighbouring states and different dynasties that governed the area and contributed to the development of the culinary arts. When on the island, do not forget to try the “Royyala Vepudu” which is a spicy prawn fry that is a true testament to the island’s affinity to seafood and spices.
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Water Sports At Bhavani Island Vijayawada
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The water sports are another interesting feature that will excite tourists, especially adventurers, to visit Bhavani Island Vijayawada. From thrilling water sports such as jet skiing that gives one the feel of a racer on the Krishna River to the banana boat rides ideal for groups, the facility offers something for everyone. Parasailing gives the tourist a vantage point view of the island and its beauty.
At the same time, kayaking allows the tourist to enjoy the calm waters of the island in a more personal way. Every activity is entertaining and offers a chance to engage with the island’s underwater world in a specific manner. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or a leisure traveller, the water activities offered here will surely make you want to come back for more.
Bird Watching At Bhavani Island Vijayawada
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Bird watching on Bhavani Island is a delight for every nature lover. The island is home to several birds: the bright-coloured kingfisher, the tall and elegant heron and the egret. Be on the lookout for the black-capped kingfisher bird, which is elusive but a gem to bird enthusiasts. The most ideal areas are along the shoreline and in the forested areas where one can sit and watch these lovely birds go about their daily activities.
Bird watching is an activity that interests any bird enthusiast or even a layman who wants to observe the birds.
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Must-See Places Around Bhavani Island Vijayawada
From historic temples like Kanaka Durga Temple to the tranquil Prakasam Barrage and the ancient marvels of Undavalli Caves, there are plenty of attractions to see around Bhavani Island Vijayawada. Adding these places to your itinerary can make your trip memorable.
1. Kanaka Durga Temple
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The Kanaka Durga Temple is another famous religious place in Vijayawada, situated around 5 kilometres from Bhavani Island. Located on the Indrakeeladri Hill, this is one of India’s oldest temples, dedicated to Goddess Durga and famous for its colourful Dussehra festival. It attracts tourists mainly for its Dravidian architectural style and the scenic view of the Krishna River and the city.
The ascent to the top of the hill, whether on steps or by cable car, is a religious experience. Due to its historical background and religious atmosphere, the temple has become a popular destination for pilgrims and travellers.
Timings: Open daily from 4 AM to 05:45 PM and from 06:15 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Undavalli Caves
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Located approximately 10 kilometres from Bhavani Island, the Undavalli Caves exemplify early Indian rock-cut architecture. These caves, which date from the 4th and 5th centuries AD, are highly elaborate, with sculptures and shrines carved out of solid sandstone. The most striking feature is the colossal monolithic figure of Vishnu in the reclining position, which is a fine example of the Gupta style of sculpture.
Visiting these caves provides insight into India’s historical and cultural background and thus is ideal for a day trip for those interested in history and culture.
Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry: INR 5 per person
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3. Prakasam Barrage
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Located merely 3 kilometres away from Bhavani Island, Prakasam Barrage is an engineering marvel and a tourist hotspot. This barrage crosses the Krishna River, links the city of Vijayawada to the Guntur district, and controls the water flow for irrigation purposes. The barrage is well-lit at night, making it an excellent place to take a walk or take pictures at sundown.
The environment is green and calm, and the river is also quiet, making it one of the most preferred by the people in the surrounding area.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry: Free
Timings And Best Time To Visit
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Bhavani Island Vijayawada’s opening hours are from 12 AM to 11:59 PM, ensuring visitors have enough time to enjoy the island’s scenery and engage in various activities. Whether you’re looking to relax amidst nature or engage in water sports, the island provides a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
The best time to visit Bhavani Island is during the year’s cooler months, particularly from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasantly cool and comfortable, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the island’s natural beauty without the extreme summer heat or the monsoon season’s humidity.
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Bhavani Island Vijayawada Ticket Price
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While entry to Bhavani Island is free, activities such as boat rides, water sports, and other recreational facilities may have separate charges. Note that the prices for water activities mentioned below are subject to change, so do check before planning your visit.
- Jet Ski: INR 500
- Tanvi River Cruise: INR 500
- Speed Boat: INR 500
- Jet Boat (6): INR 2400
How To Reach
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The journey to Bhavani Island is itself an exciting experience. Boats from Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada ply to the island regularly. Travelling by boat takes about 10-15 minutes, and the ride is quite invigorating, with beautiful sights of the river and the city. Boat schedules are available for people to check so that they do not have to struggle with the weather conditions.
Water, sunscreen, and a hat should not be forgotten, as these are essential for the comfort of the travellers.
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Bhavani Island Vijayawada is a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature, engage in adventurous activities, and experience cultural significance. These activities range from water sports to bird watching to other attractions in the surrounding areas. Therefore, let’s grab our luggage and plan a trip to Vijayawada for a wonderful journey to Bhavani Island!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bhavani Island Vijayawada
What is the Bhavani Island Vijayawada ticket price?
Bhavani Island is an island off the coast of Vijayawada so it does not have a specific ticket to get there. But you will have to take a ferry or any other mode of transport to reach the island.
Are there enough restaurants on the Bhavani Islands?
Yes, after the recent surge in tourists, the islands have many restaurants and new ones opening up every few days.
Can I go for a swim on the beaches of Bhavani Island?
Yes, swimming is not prohibited on the Bhavani Islands but you must ensure your safety as not a lot of safety crew is available.
How crowded are the beaches on the Bhavani Islands?
The beaches on Bhavani Island are usually moderately crowded but on weekdays they are often quiet and peaceful.
Are there bikes or cycles available for rent on the Bhavani Islands?
Yes, there are shops that provide bikes and cycles for rent on the islands. You will need your ID and Driving License to get the services.
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