In a significant move to boost tourism, Andhra Pradesh is set to replicate the iconic backwater experience of Kerala on its own waters. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) is launching houseboats on the Krishna river, marking their first-ever debut in the state.
A New Tourism Venture on the Krishna
The initiative will see houseboats plying the Krishna river upstream of the historic Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada. Operations will be based from the Pavitra Sangam Ghat, the sacred confluence point of the Krishna and Godavari rivers near Ibrahimpatnam Ferry Ghat, up to the barrage. This stretch promises a unique and picturesque journey for visitors.
The project is being rolled out under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. APTDC Water Fleet General Manager Nancharaiah Chandan confirmed that the inaugural fleet will consist of two single-bedroom houseboats along with a special floating pod designed for candlelight dinners, which can accommodate up to eight people.
Inauguration and Future Expansion Plans
The boats, manufactured in A Konduru by a company named Best India, founded by an NRI, are likely to be inaugurated by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. The launch is expected during the inauguration of the Avakai Amaravati festival on Thursday.
For tourists, a night on a single-bedroom houseboat has been priced between Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,000. A key highlight for guests will be the opportunity to witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset views directly from the riverside.
This initial launch is just the beginning. APTDC has ambitious plans to expand the fleet significantly in the coming months. The corporation is preparing to introduce:
- Double-bedroom luxury boats.
- Larger houseboats with five to six bedrooms.
- Spacious dinner party boats with a capacity for up to 200 persons.
Groundbreaking ceremonies for these larger vessels are scheduled for this month. Their construction is targeted for completion by October, in time for the Dasara festival. The official noted that building these large boats is a major undertaking, with costs estimated around Rs 8-9 crore, and will require a slew of permissions from various government departments.
Transforming Vijayawada's Tourism Landscape
This venture positions Vijayawada as a new hub for experiential water tourism, directly competing with the classic backwater attractions of Kerala. By leveraging the natural beauty of the Krishna river and the engineering marvel of the Prakasam Barrage, APTDC aims to offer a first-of-its-kind experience in the region.
The introduction of houseboats is expected to attract a new segment of tourists, extend visitor stays, and create fresh economic opportunities linked to hospitality and local services. It represents a strategic investment in making Andhra Pradesh a more versatile and compelling destination on India's tourism map.
