Beyond the long coastline and rich history with ancient temples on its land, Andhra Pradesh is one of the most diverse states in South India. It beckons travellers with its unique layout and the variety of experiences that you can indulge in. However, what many people miss out on is the number of islands in Andhra Pradesh. Each of these picturesque islands has a unique characteristic that sets it apart. So, once you are done exploring the common tourist attractions, you must explore the offbeat islands too to uncover the best views.
8 Islands In Andhra Pradesh
Immerse yourself in the unfiltered beauty of the islands in Andhra Pradesh, and ensure that you have a solid travel itinerary with you.
1. Konaseema
Photo: Sairam kumpatla / Wikimedia Commons
Konaseema is a popular “delta-ic” region that’s located in Andhra Pradesh. Owing to its similarities with Kerala’s backwaters, Konaseema is also nicknamed “God’s Own Creation”. As you step onto this island, prepare to be greeted with tall coconut trees, fresh and green paddy fields and a variety of fruit orchards, especially that of mangoes. There are fisherfolk villages located around, which adds to the beauty of this place. However, above all, the primary reason why the majority of tourists visit this place is because of a remote spot called “Amalapuram.”
Location: Dr B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, Andhra Pradesh
How To Reach: Rajahmundry is the nearest city. You can take a taxi or public bus from there to reach Konaseema.
2. Hope Island
Photo: Venkatesh Thalluri / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
As pleasant as the name is, Hope Island is yet one of the most beautiful islands in Andhra Pradesh that you can consider visiting when you are in Andhra Pradesh. It is also known as Godavari Point. However, the most unique feature of this island is its “tadpole” shape. According to archaeological evidence, the island was formed roughly 200 years ago due to sand formation around the area of the East Godavari district. You have to take a ferry ride from the Kakinada coast to reach Hope Island, kicking off your adventure on the right note. Later, you can also add Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary.
Location: Kakinada Coast
How To Reach: You have to take a ferry ride from Kakinada Coast to reach the island.
3. Bhavani Island
Photo: Amit Chattopadhyay / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Among the best islands in Andhra Pradesh, Bhavani Island is the largest. Located close to the city of Vijayawada, the island lies on the Krishna River and offers tourists access to a variety of unique activities. The lush greenery of and around this island is what makes it one of the most popular sites to explore, especially if you want to relax and unwind. There are a variety of unique experiences available, including boating and picnics.
Location: Krishna River, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
How To Reach: You can reach Vijayawada first and then head to Punnami. From there, you’d have to board a ferry to reach the island.
4. Irukkam Island
Photo: Reshma Chand / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located amid Pulicat Lake in Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh, Irukkam Island is yet another popular island that you must visit. The island is quite close to Chennai, making it an accessible option for tourists travelling from Tamil Nadu as well. To reach the island, you have to take a boat ride from Bimuni Vari Palem, which is around 9 km from the main island. Due to the strategic location of this island, especially being in such proximity to SriCity and Apache, consistent developments are happening to make it more tourism-friendly.
Location: 9 Km from Bimuni Vari Palem
How To Reach: You need to take a boat from Bimuni Vari Palem to reach the island.
5. Venadu
Photo: Rambo Brandon / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
While technically not an island only, Venadu is an island village located in Andhra Pradesh. With a long stretch of coastline and beautiful lush greenery, visiting Venadu enables you to truly embrace the meaning of a slow life. You can interact with the limited number of locals that live on this island village, and learn about their way of living and unwinding. There are a few local temples around the village, where you can offer your prayers. Due to the extremely remote location of this island, there are no accommodation options available.
Location: Nellore, Andhra Pradesh
How To Reach: You can reach the main city of Nellore and then hire a taxi or public transportation to reach this remote village.
6. Diviseema
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Often known as “Divi Island,” Diviseema is also called the “Pearl of Andhra Pradesh.” Known for its rich biodiversity, the island is home to various bird species, including migratory ones. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Divi Island are a paradise for snorkelling and scuba diving, where one can witness vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life. Locally, the island is known as “Avanigadda.” Compared to all the other oldest islands in Andhra Pradesh, Diviseema is one of those spots that truly enable you to explore a lot of unique activities.
Location: Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh
How To Reach: The nearest city to this island is Vijayawada. So, from the main city, you have to reach the nearest boat station or jetty to then reach the island.
7. Sriharikota
Photo: Abinisha Durairajan / Shutterstock
Often synonymous with ISRO rocket launch’s base station, Sriharikota is a lot more than that. This is an ideal and remote island located in Andhra Pradesh that’s perfect for tourists who want to immerse themselves in some nature and also explore the rich history of the place. The beauty of the coastline, beaches, lakes and rivers all come together to add to the beauty of this little island, off the coast of the Bay of Bengal. You can unwind and relax around the lush greenery, host picnics and even enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surroundings.
Location: Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh.
How To Reach: You can travel via Tirupati or Sullurupeta. Either way, there are connecting local transportation from either of these places directly to the island.
8. Gollapalem
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Also known as the Chinna Gollapalem Island, it is another offbeat and remote island in the South Indian state. The best part of visiting Gollapalem is the extensive number of beaches that you can access there. And, the best part is that the majority of these beaches are less explored and infiltrated by tourists, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about crowds too much. Also, the beaches are well-maintained with no traces of trash or litter.
Location: Kruthivennu Mandal of Krishna District
How To Reach: Rajahmundry is the nearest city to Gollapalem Island. From there, you can take public transport to reach the island.
These are the beautiful islands in Andhra Pradesh with each one of them having its characteristic feature that makes it stand out. If you are looking to explore the offbeat locations around Andhra Pradesh, adding these remote islands to your itinerary can add to a pretty amazing travel experience. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a seamless vacation embracing the nature around you.
Cover Photo: Hamza Indian / Shutterstock