Papi Hills Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Papi Hills, India. This comprehensive guide covers everything from natural attractions to cultural landmarks to help you plan your ultimate trip.


Introduction to Papi Hills

Tucked away in the Northern Coast region of Andhra Pradesh, India, Papi Hills is an unspoiled gem waiting to be explored. The scenic hills offer panoramic views of the Godavari River, dense forests, and wildlife that makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful getaway.

The hills are locally known as ‘Papikondalu’ or Papi Hills, which means ‘residence of ghosts’. These hills are painted in a lovely shade of green throughout the year and are a popular tourist attraction in Andhra Pradesh.

In this extensive travel guide, we will take you on a virtual tour of Papi Hills and help you discover its hidden treasures. From cultural landmarks to natural adventures, we have got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Papi Hills

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are a history buff, there are several fascinating attractions to explore in Papi Hills:

  • Gandi Pochamma Temple - A scenic temple located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. The temple is dedicated to a local goddess, and it is believed that the temple has the power to protect the entire region.
  • Perantallapalli Village - A rural village in Papi Hills with a history dating back to the 13th century. The village has several historical temples and shrines that are worth exploring.
  • Kolluru Bamboo Huts - A unique eco-tourism resort located on the banks of the Godavari River, surrounded by lush green forests. The bamboo huts offer a comfortable stay, and you can indulge in several outdoor activities conducted by the resort.

Natural Attractions of Papi Hills: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Papi Hills offers several breathtaking natural attractions that will leave you spellbound. Here are a few to explore:

  • Godavari River - Take a boat ride along the Godavari River, which flows through the hills, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding groves and terraced rice paddies.
  • Kolluru Huts - Popular for river rafting and bird watching, you can experience the most scenic beauty of Papikondalu here in these Bamboo Huts.
  • Pattiseema Island - An island located in the middle of the Godavari River, Pattiseema Island is a natural wonder that can be reached by boat rides. The island provides a bird’s eye view of the surrounding landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Papi Hills

Papi Hills is a great place to explore on foot or on a bicycle. The hills have numerous hiking/biking routes that will take you through the lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, magnificent viewpoints and more.

  • Papikondalu Trek - A trekking trail that takes you through the Papi Hills, taking you through pristine forests and scenic landscapes.
  • Cable Car Ride - One of the most popular ways to explore Papikondalu is by a cable car ride. It offers an aerial view of the Godavari River and the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Papi Hills: Activities and Tours

In addition to sightseeing, there are several activities and tours that you can enjoy in Papi Hills. Here are a few must-do activities:

  • River Rafting - The Godavari River is a popular spot for river rafting, offering a thrilling experience that you will never forget.
  • Wildlife Safari - The wildlife sanctuary located in Papi Hills is home to numerous species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and bears. Take a wildlife safari and explore the natural habitat of these animals.
  • Tribal Village Tour - Take a tour of the nearby tribal villages, meet the locals, and learn about their culture and way of life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Papi Hills

If you have a week to explore Papi Hills, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1 - Arrive in Rajahmundry and rest for the day.
  • Day 2 - Explore local attractions such as the town of Rajahmundry and the Godavari River.
  • Day 3 - Take a boat ride along the Godavari River, visit the Gandi Pochamma Temple and Perantallapalli Village.
  • Day 4 - Visit the Kolluru Bamboo Huts and enjoy the natural scenery.
  • Day 5 - Take a safari to the wildlife sanctuary and explore the natural habitat.
  • Day 6 - Explore the Pattiseema Island and indulge in adventure activities.
  • Day 7 - Departure day.

Food and Drink Scene of Papi Hills

Must-Try Dishes

When it comes to food, Papi Hills offers a unique culinary experience. The following dishes are highly recommended:

  • Bamboo Chicken - This is a local specialty, where chicken is cooked in bamboo shoots with spices.
  • Biryani - One of the most popular dishes in Andhra Pradesh, Biryani is a fragrant rice dish cooked with vegetables or meat and spices.
  • Poothareku - A sweet snack made of rice flour and jaggery.

Local Beverages

The local brew in Papi Hills is ‘Jonna Kudu’. It is a millet-based drink that is fermented using local herbs and spices. You can also try the local version of tea - ‘Irani Chai’, which is a sweet and aromatic tea brewed with milk.

Where to Stay in Papi Hills: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Papi Hills offer several accommodation options to cater to all budgets. Here are a few popular accommodations:

  • Kolluru Bamboo Huts - Located on the banks of the Godavari River, offering a unique eco-tourism experience.
  • Baselios Dayara Hill Resort - A comfortable resort located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Haritha Resorts - A budget-friendly option located in the heart of Papi Hills, offering basic amenities and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Papi Hills: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Papi Hills, you can bring back some unique souvenirs and products that are specific to the region:

  • Local Handicrafts - The region is known for its handicrafts, including handwoven textiles, pottery, and wood carvings.
  • Spices - Andhra Pradesh is known for its spices, and you can purchase authentic local spices to take back home.
  • Tribal Artifacts - You can find several stores selling tribal artifacts such as jewelry, traditional clothing, and weapons.

Local Culture and Customs of Papi Hills

The locals in Papi Hills are primarily of the Konda Kapu tribe. They have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their handicrafts, music, and dance. The locals are very friendly and hospitable, so be sure to interact with them and learn about their culture.

Best Time to Visit Papi Hills

The ideal time to visit Papi Hills is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Papi Hills

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Pack appropriate clothing and footwear for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Stay hydrated and carry water bottles with you.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the natural surroundings.
  • Disrespect the locals or their beliefs.
  • Smoke or drink alcohol in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Papi Hills

Papi Hills is a safe destination for travelers, and there is no major crime or security threat in the region. However, as with any travel, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution and take necessary precautions.

Health in Papi Hills

Papi Hills is a relatively remote location, and medical facilities may not be readily available. Carry a basic medical kit, including any prescription medication you may need. It is also recommended to get vaccinations and medications for diseases like Malaria, Dengue, etc.

Getting to Papi Hills: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Papi Hills

The nearest airport to Papi Hills is Rajahmundry Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Rajahmundry, you can hire a private taxi or take public transport to reach Papi Hills.

Bus Stations Near Papi Hills

The nearest bus station is in Rajahmundry. Regular buses ply to and from major cities in Andhra Pradesh to Papi Hills. You can easily find a bus from Rajahmundry to Papi Hills or hire a private taxi.

Other Options

Papi Hills is well connected by train stations like Rajahmundry, Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, etc. From these stations, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Papi Hills.

How to Get Around in Papi Hills

The best way to explore Papi Hills is by enrolling in a guided tour. However, taxis and local buses are also available for transportation within the hills.

Where to Go Next from Papi Hills: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Papi Hills, you can head to the following nearby destinations:

  • Bhadrachalam - A temple town located on the banks of the Godavari River, about 90 km from Papi Hills.
  • Kakinada - A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and natural scenery, about 140 km from Papi Hills.

Conclusion

Papi Hills in Andhra Pradesh offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for an authentic experience. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your perfect trip to Papi Hills. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of Papi Hills and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Early morning at Papi Hills Early morning at Papi Hills