Last week, my friends Ramana, Bhramaji, Srinu, Chinta, and I decided to embark on a trip to Papikondalu. The boat organizer had asked us to be at the boarding point by 10 AM, but we ended up arriving at 10:30 AM. Unfortunately, the boat had already left, leaving us disappointed. To make the most of our day, we visited the Gandi Pochamma Temple and sought the blessings of the deity.
 |
| Gandi Pochamma Talli 🙏 |
After this divine darshan, we decided to proceed to Maredumilli, where we enjoyed a delicious meal of bamboo chicken and biryani. Our journey continued to Pamuleru before we headed back home.
Although we planned to retry the Papikondalu trip that weekend, my friends had personal commitments. So, Srinu and I decided to go ahead with the plan.
On Saturday night, we contacted Govind, the bookie, to confirm our booking. He instructed us to reach Rajahmundry by 7:30 AM. Srinu and I started our journey from Kothapeta to Rajahmundry by bike. Upon reaching, we parked our vehicle at Pushkar Ghat and boarded a mini-bus filled with fellow travelers. The bus departed for Gandi Pochamma, where the Polavaram project is underway.
We reached around 9:45 AM, purchased guavas (eight for 100 rupees), and had some coconut water. Boarding the boat around 10 AM, we were treated to a breakfast of mixed idly, vada, upma, and a cup of tea. The boat ride began, and we were soon immersed in the scenic beauty of Papikondalu.
The History and Scenic Beauty of Papikondalu
Papikondalu, also known as Papi Hills, is a range of hills along the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh. The name 'Papikondalu' is derived from the Telugu words "Papi" (meaning 'sin') and "Kondalu" (meaning 'hills'), as it is believed that a visit to these hills washes away one's sins. The region is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and the tranquil flow of the Godavari River. The boat ride to Papikondalu offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of nature.
Enroute to Perantalapalli
During our boat ride, the organizers entertained us with songs and dance performances, encouraging passenger participation. The enchanting beauty of the Godavari River, flanked by rolling hills, created a mesmerizing atmosphere. We enjoyed every moment, thanks to the pleasant weather and the scenic views.
Lunch and snacks were provided on the boat, ensuring we stayed energized throughout the journey. We reached Perantalapalli at 12:30 PM and were given half an hour to visit the Visweswara Temple, constructed by the Ramakrishna Math. After a brief exploration, we boarded the boat again and headed back to Gandi Pochamma Temple.
Perantalapalli: A Spiritual Oasis
Perantalapalli is a small tribal village located on the banks of the Godavari River, amidst the dense forests of Papikondalu. It is known for its serene environment and spiritual significance. The main attraction here is the Visweswara Temple, built by the Ramakrishna Mission. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a place of tranquility and devotion, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The village is also known for its pristine beauty, with lush greenery and a peaceful ambiance that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Gandi Pochamma: A Divine Stop
Gandi Pochamma Temple is another significant stop on the Papikondalu boat ride. Located near the Polavaram project site, this temple is dedicated to the local deity Gandi Pochamma. The temple is a place of worship for the local tribes and visitors, who come to seek blessings and enjoy the serene surroundings. The temple's location on the banks of the Godavari River adds to its spiritual charm, making it a must-visit spot on the journey.
The Return Journey
A bit tired from the day's activities, I took a refreshing 30-minute nap on the boat. Later, a housie game was organized on the upper deck, and though neither Srinu nor I won, we had a great time participating. We were served tea and biscuits as snacks, and by the time we reached our endpoint, it was evening.
Wrapping Up the Adventure
Disembarking from the boat, we faced a slight inconvenience as we waited for the bus to fill up before departure. The heat made the wait uncomfortable, but once the bus was full, we were on our way back to Rajahmundry. We arrived at 7 PM and decided to have dinner at Sri Kanya.
For dinner, we ordered crispy chicken as a starter and the Sunday special mutton dum biryani. While the starter was disappointing, the biryani was delightful and made up for it. On our way back home, we made our usual stop at Sai Sujatha Pan Shop for two special Pan, which were delicious. Finally, we reached home by 10 PM, ending our adventurous day on a satisfying note.
This journey to Papikondalu was a blend of unforeseen challenges, divine experiences, and scenic wonders, making it a memorable trip for Srinu and me. The beauty of the Godavari River, the serenity of the temples, and the thrill of exploring new places created lasting memories that we will cherish for a long time.
