Rajahmundry Must-Visit Attractions & Travel Tips

Perched gracefully on the banks of the mighty Godavari River, Rajahmundry is one of the oldest cities in India and a true gem in the heart of Andhra Pradesh. Known as the Cultural Capital of Andhra Pradesh, this historic city is a blend of spirituality, natural beauty, art, and vibrant local life. Its significance dates back to the 11th century, and it played a key role in the development of Telugu literature and culture.

Often overshadowed by the more frequented destinations in South India, Rajahmundry offers travelers an enriching experience packed with heritage temples, scenic river ghats, lush parks, and traditional festivals that reflect the state’s glorious legacy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler looking to explore off-the-beaten-path places, Rajahmundry has something magical for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top tourist attractions in Rajahmundry, giving you insights on what to see, how to reach, the best time to visit, tips for travelers, and much more. Let this guide be your trusted companion to discover Rajahmundry’s timeless charm.

Table of Contents

Rajahmundry Travel Guide: Best 11 Places to Visit

1. Godavari Bridge (Havelock & New Arch Bridge)

One of Rajahmundry’s most iconic landmarks is the majestic Godavari Bridge, which actually includes two engineering marvels – the Old Havelock Bridge and the New Arch Bridge (Godavari Arch Bridge). These bridges stretch across the vast Godavari River and are a spectacular sight, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Havelock Bridge: Built in 1900 by the British, this now-defunct railway bridge is a heritage site and a favorite spot for photographers and history lovers.
New Godavari Bridge: A modern rail-cum-road bridge, this is one of Asia’s longest of its kind and showcases exceptional engineering.

Things to Do:

Walk along the riverside promenade to enjoy scenic views.
Capture panoramic shots of the Godavari River, especially during golden hour.
Boat rides near the bridge give a unique perspective of both structures.

Travel Tip: Visit during early morning or evening for the best lighting and to avoid the heat. Monsoon adds a dramatic backdrop.

2. ISKCON Rajahmundry Temple

Situated right by the riverbank, the ISKCON Temple Rajahmundry is a peaceful and spiritual spot dedicated to Lord Krishna. Known for its magnificent architecture and serene ambiance, it is one of the largest ISKCON temples in South India.

Highlights:

Beautiful idols of Radha Krishna in intricately decorated sanctum.
Daily aartis and bhajans that elevate the spiritual experience.
A peaceful riverfront garden and food stalls offering prasadam.

Things to Do:

Attend the evening aarti or spiritual discourse.
Enjoy the riverside breeze from the temple courtyard.
Explore the spiritual bookstore and souvenir shop.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or around 6 PM for the aarti ceremony.

3. Dowleswaram Barrage (Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage)

Named after Sir Arthur Cotton, the engineer who designed this engineering marvel, the Dowleswaram Barrage is both a functional irrigation project and a major tourist attraction in Rajahmundry. It spans the Godavari River and is vital for supplying water to the delta region.

Highlights:

Offers stunning views of the river in full glory.
Sir Arthur Cotton Museum is located nearby, which showcases the contribution of the British engineer.
It’s a popular picnic spot among locals.

Things to Do:

Visit the museum and learn about the history of the barrage.
Enjoy a leisurely walk on the barrage and watch the water flow.
Grab a local snack from vendors nearby.

4. Kotilingeshwara Temple

Located in the heart of Rajahmundry, Kotilingeshwara Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. What sets this temple apart is the presence of thousands of small Shiva lingams (symbolic representations of Lord Shiva) installed within the temple premises, hence the name ‘Koti Lingam’ (one crore lingams).

The spiritual ambiance, coupled with the rhythmic chanting of mantras and the scent of incense, creates a divine environment for pilgrims and visitors.

Highlights:

A massive Shiva lingam flanked by thousands of smaller ones.
Regular poojas, Abhishekams, and festive celebrations.
Peaceful environment ideal for meditation and devotion.

Best Time to Visit: During Maha Shivaratri, the temple is beautifully decorated, and special prayers are offered throughout the night.

Travel Tip: Footwear must be removed before entering the main temple area. Carry a cloth bag to store your shoes.

5. Papikondalu Boat Trip from Rajahmundry

A visit to Rajahmundry is incomplete without experiencing a Papikondalu boat cruise. These boat trips take you upstream the Godavari River, navigating between the majestic Papi Hills—a region reminiscent of the Western Ghats, with lush forested hills and tranquil waters.

This is a scenic and culturally rich journey that gives you a glimpse into rural Andhra life, temple visits, tribal settlements, and natural wonders.

What to Expect:

Full-day cruises with stops at temples like Perantapalli Veerabhadra Swamy Temple and Gandi Pochamma Temple.
Authentic Andhra vegetarian meals served on board.
Interactions with local tribal communities and handicraft purchases.

Best Time to Visit: October to March – when the weather is pleasant, and river levels are suitable for navigation.

How to Book:

Tours can be booked through AP Tourism, private tour operators, or local hotels. Options include:

One-day return cruise
Overnight stay at Kolluru Bamboo Huts

Travel Tip: Carry sunscreen, a hat, water, and wear comfortable cotton clothes. It can get humid on the boat.

6. Markandeya Temple & Pushkar Ghats

Located on the banks of the Godavari, the Markandeya Temple is dedicated to Sage Markandeya, a devotee of Lord Shiva who conquered death through his devotion. Adjacent to the temple is the Pushkar Ghat, a sacred bathing area visited by devotees for purification rituals and holy dips.

Highlights:

Intricately carved temple structure with peaceful surroundings.
The ghat comes alive during festivals like Godavari Pushkaralu (held every 12 years).
Pilgrims perform sacred bath rituals, especially during full moons and eclipses.

Best Time to Visit: During Karthika Masam (Oct–Nov), when devotees light thousands of diyas along the ghat.

7. Rallabandi Subbarao Government Museum

For those who appreciate history and culture, the Rallabandi Subbarao Museum is a must-visit. Named after a well-known Telugu writer, the museum is a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts, sculptures, coins, and palm-leaf scriptures.

What to See:

Rare manuscripts in Telugu, Devanagari, and Persian scripts.
Ancient coins from various dynasties, including Satavahanas and Chalukyas.
10th-century stone idols and inscriptions.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays and public holidays)

Entry Fee: Nominal fee (approx. ₹10)

8. Maredumilli Forest & Waterfalls (Short Day Trip)

Just a couple of hours’ drive from Rajahmundry, Maredumilli is a dense forest area that’s home to hidden waterfalls, tribal hamlets, and eco-tourism resorts. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Attractions:

Amruthadhara Waterfalls and Jalatarangini Waterfalls
Tribal Museum showcasing the lifestyle and artifacts of native tribes
Bamboo chicken and local tribal cuisine available at food stalls

Best Time to Visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon months (July to December)

Travel Tip: Carry mosquito repellent and proper walking shoes. The waterfalls require a short hike.

9. Pattiseema Temple & Scenic Spot

Located around 30 km from Rajahmundry, Pattiseema is famous for its Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple, situated on a small island in the Godavari River. The temple is accessible by boat and offers panoramic views of the Papi Hills in the background.

Highlights:

Beautiful temple dedicated to Veerabhadra Swamy, a fierce form of Lord Shiva.
Calm and spiritual island experience with minimal crowd.
Ideal spot for photography and picnics.

10. Kadiyapulanka Nurseries (Floriculture Hotspot)

Kadiyapulanka is a lush nursery village on the outskirts of Rajahmundry, known for its extensive flower cultivation. This area supplies plants and decorative flowers to many parts of South India.

What to See:

Acres of flower beds including roses, marigolds, and chrysanthemums.
Ornamental and medicinal plants on display and for sale.
Great opportunity to learn about horticulture and buy exotic plants.

11. Gowthami Ghat & Evening Aarti Experience

Gowthami Ghat is the heart of Rajahmundry’s spiritual life. As the sun sets, the ghat transforms into a divine stage for the Godavari Harathi (aarti), where lamps, chants, and rituals come together in a mesmerizing spiritual performance.

Experience:

Attend the aarti just after sunset.
Enjoy boat rides with floating diyas.
Relax by the steps and absorb the river’s tranquility.

Top 5 Festivals and Events in Rajahmundry:

Rajahmundry is not only a city of temples and rivers but also a land of grand cultural celebrations. Festivals here are celebrated with devotion, color, and community spirit.

(i) Godavari Pushkaralu

Celebrated once every 12 years, this is the most important spiritual event in Rajahmundry.
Devotees from all over India come to take a holy dip in the Godavari River.
Extensive arrangements are made for rituals, cultural events, and mass prayers at river ghats.

(ii) Karthika Masam

A sacred month in the Hindu calendar where devotees light oil lamps along the Godavari ghats.
Special evening rituals, devotional singing, and riverbank prayers take place.

(iii) Ugadi (Telugu New Year)

A major festival marking the beginning of the Telugu calendar year.
Families prepare special dishes like Ugadi Pachadi and participate in traditional rituals.

(iv) Sri Rama Navami

Celebrated with grandeur at the nearby Bhadrachalam temple and in local temples.
Devotees participate in processions, bhajans, and temple visits.

(v) Navaratri and Dussehra

Many temples in Rajahmundry organize nine nights of devotional events, dances, and classical music.
Ghats and streets are illuminated and beautifully decorated.

Where to Stay in Rajahmundry:

Accommodation in Rajahmundry caters to all budgets, offering everything from basic lodges to premium hotels.

Luxury Hotels

Hotel Anand Regency
A 4-star hotel with river-facing rooms, fine dining, and business amenities. Ideal for families and corporate travelers.
Manjeera International
Located centrally, this hotel offers modern comforts, spacious rooms, and good in-house dining options.

Mid-Range Options

La Hospin Hotel
Offers river-view rooms, rooftop dining, and courteous service at a reasonable price.
Hotel Shelton Rajamahendri
Known for its heritage décor, vegetarian restaurant, and proximity to railway station.

Budget Stays

Sri Aditya Inn
A well-maintained and affordable choice for solo travelers or short stays.
Hotel River Bay
Located near the ISKCON temple and Godavari river, perfect for pilgrims and travelers seeking riverside views.

Homestays & Guest Houses

A growing number of homestays in Kadiyapulanka and near the ghats offer a local experience.

Local Food & What to Eat in Rajahmundry:

The city offers a wide range of authentic Andhra cuisine, especially for those who enjoy bold flavors and spicy dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

Pulihora – Tangy tamarind rice prepared during festivals.
Gongura Pachadi – A sour leafy chutney, served with hot rice and ghee.
Royyala Vepudu (Prawn Fry) – A seafood delicacy made with fiery Andhra spices.
Chepala Pulusu (Fish Curry) – Rich and spicy fish curry cooked in traditional clay pots.
Pootharekulu – A local sweet made from rice starch and jaggery/sugar.

Best Places to Eat

Ahaar Fine Dining – Offers both vegetarian and non-veg dishes with Andhra-style meals.
Udupi Akshaya – Great for South Indian vegetarian meals and dosas.
Spicy Food Court – A casual dining spot known for Andhra thalis.
Street Food – Try mirchi bajjis, punugulu, and egg dosa from roadside stalls near Pushkar Ghat.

How to Reach Rajahmundry:

Rajahmundry is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it an accessible destination.

By Air

Rajahmundry Airport (RJA) is located about 15 km from the city center.
Regular flights from Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, and Visakhapatnam.
Taxis and autos are available at the airport to reach the city.

By Train

Rajahmundry Railway Station (RJY) is a major junction on the Chennai–Howrah line.
Frequent trains from Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam.
The station is centrally located, making it easy to access all parts of the city.

By Road

Rajahmundry is connected via NH16 (Chennai–Kolkata highway).
State-run APSRTC buses and private Volvos run from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam.
Taxis and rental cars are available for local and intercity travel.

Best Time to Visit + Travel Tips

Best Time:

October to March: Pleasant weather for sightseeing and boat cruises.
July to September: Lush greenery, great for photography, but prepare for rain.
Avoid peak summer (April–June): Hot and humid, less comfortable for travel.

Travel Tips:

Wear light cotton clothes and carry a sun hat during the day.
Keep mosquito repellent handy, especially during monsoon.
If visiting during festivals like Pushkaralu, book accommodations in advance.
Carry water bottles and snacks when exploring remote attractions like Maredumilli.

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Rajahmundry:

Day 1: Spiritual & Heritage Trail

Visit ISKCON Temple
Walk along Godavari Bridge
Explore Markandeya Temple and Pushkar Ghat
Attend evening aarti at Gowthami Ghat

Day 2: Nature & Culture

Take a Papikondalu Boat Cruise
Visit Perantapalli Temple and enjoy river lunch
Return by sunset and relax at your hotel

Day 3: Exploration & Shopping

Morning visit to Kadiyapulanka Nurseries
Stop by Rallabandi Subbarao Museum
Explore local markets for handloom sarees and handicrafts
Wrap up with dinner at a local restaurant serving Andhra cuisine

Conclusion

Rajahmundry is a destination where the sacred meets the scenic. From the calmness of the Godavari River to the spiritual depth of its temples, and from the excitement of river cruises to the charm of nursery towns—every part of Rajahmundry offers something new and memorable.

Whether you’re visiting for a spiritual retreat, a family trip, or a solo travel experience, this city welcomes you with warmth and authenticity. Its temples, ghats, festivals, and culture reflect the soul of Andhra Pradesh, while its modern developments and connectivity make it traveler-friendly.

So if you’re seeking a destination that’s spiritual yet scenic, vibrant yet peaceful—Rajahmundry should be your next stop. Don’t forget your camera, your curiosity, and your love for nature and culture.

Explore More:

FAQs about Visiting Rajahmundry:

Q1. Is Rajahmundry suitable for a family vacation?

Yes, it’s a peaceful city with temples, nature, and culture—great for families.

Q2. Are Papikondalu cruises safe for children and elders?

Yes, the boats are safe and well-maintained. Just avoid monsoon months for cruising.

Q3. Is Rajahmundry vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely. There are several pure-veg restaurants and Andhra meals are largely vegetarian.

Q4. How many days are enough to explore Rajahmundry?

3 days are ideal to explore the main attractions and enjoy a boat trip.

Q5. Can I buy local products or souvenirs in Rajahmundry?

Yes, handloom sarees, Andhra pickles, and local sweets like Pootharekulu are popular.

Q6. Is Rajahmundry expensive for tourists?

Not at all. It offers a wide range of budget to mid-range options for stay and food.

Q7. Are there good transport options within the city?

Yes, autos, cabs, and even app-based services like Ola are available.

Tourist Attractions in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh: Travel Guide

Rajahmundry Travel Guide: Best 11 Places to Visit