Nestled in the fertile delta
region of Andhra Pradesh, West Godavari District is a land of lush greenery,
rich culture, and tranquil waterways. Bordered by the mighty Godavari River on
the east and the scenic Krishna River delta to the west, this district is often
called the “Rice Bowl of Andhra Pradesh.” Its landscape—dotted with coconut
groves, paddy fields, and canals—makes it an enchanting blend of rural charm
and natural beauty.
1. Dwaraka Tirumala (Chinna
Tirupati)
One of the most visited pilgrim
centers in the district, Dwaraka Tirumala is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.
Often referred to as “Chinna Tirupati” (Little Tirupati), this ancient temple
attracts devotees from all over Andhra Pradesh. The temple is perched on a
small hill, offering a peaceful spiritual experience surrounded by lush
forests.
2. Kolleru Lake
A paradise for nature lovers, Kolleru
Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India. It serves as a bird
sanctuary and is home to migratory species like pelicans, storks, and herons.
The Atapaka Bird Sanctuary near Kaikaluru is a popular viewing spot, especially
between October and March when the lake becomes a haven for thousands of birds.
3. Perupalem Beach
Located near Narasapuram, Perupalem
Beach is one of the most serene beaches along the Andhra coast. With golden
sands and calm waves, it offers a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility.
The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department has been developing it as a coastal
tourism hub with improved amenities.
4. Eluru
The district headquarters, Eluru,
is known for its cultural heritage and traditional Eluru Carpets, famous for
their fine craftsmanship. The Eluru Buddha Park, featuring a towering Buddha
statue set amid a lake, provides a serene urban retreat. The nearby Venu Gopala
Swamy Temple is another landmark showcasing Dravidian temple architecture.
5. Pattiseema
A sacred island on the Godavari
River, Pattiseema is home to the Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple, one of the Pancharama
Kshetras. Surrounded by scenic hills and river views, it is accessible by boat
from Polavaram or Devipatnam and is revered for its mythological significance.
6. Polavaram
Apart from being known for the Polavaram
Irrigation Project, the area boasts lush natural beauty, dense forests, and
tribal villages. The Godavari River flowing through this region adds a majestic
touch to the landscape, making it a great spot for eco-tourism and photography.
7. Narsapuram
A picturesque town known for lace
industry, Narsapuram is also a gateway to the scenic Godavari mangroves and Coringa
Wildlife Sanctuary (a short distance away). The nearby Adikesava Emberumanar
Temple is an important Vaishnavite shrine, and the ferry rides across the river
offer memorable views.
8. Kovvur
Situated on the banks of the
Godavari, Kovvur is famous for its tranquil ghats and temples. It is also
connected to Rajahmundry by the famous Godavari Bridge, one of the longest
rail-cum-road bridges in Asia. The sunsets from the bridge are breathtaking.
Cultural Essence
West Godavari is deeply rooted in
Telugu culture. Festivals like Sankranti, Dasara, and Ugadi are celebrated with
grandeur. The district is also known for its Kuchipudi dance performances, handicrafts,
and local delicacies like Pootharekulu and traditional Andhra sweets.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore West
Godavari is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and
migratory birds flock to Kolleru Lake.
How to Reach
By Air: Nearest airport –
Rajahmundry (around 35 km from Eluru)
By Rail: Eluru and Bhimavaram are
major railway stations.
By Road: Well-connected by NH-16
(Chennai–Kolkata highway) and state highways to all major Andhra cities.
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