Photo spot in Vijayawada
Bhavani Island
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
One of India's largest river islands, on the Krishna above the barrage — a green resort island with boating, water sports and gardens.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the heat eases and the river turns gold; early morning from the boat for calm water and the hill behind.
Best angle
Take a photo from the boat looking back at Indrakeeladri and the city skyline, with the open river in the front of the frame.
Entry fee
Ferry + entry
Opening hours
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Crowd level
Medium
Best outfit colors
Overview
Best time to visit Bhavani Island
Late afternoon, when the heat eases and the river turns gold; early morning from the boat for calm water and the hill behind. Crowds here are typically medium. Arrive a little early to claim your angle and catch the softest light before the day tips over.
Poses & angles
Photo tips for Bhavani Island
Take a photo from the boat looking back at Indrakeeladri and the city skyline, with the open river in the front of the frame. Work a few of the pose ideas below, shoot wide for context and tight for detail, and give yourself a couple of extra minutes to get the frame right.
On the ferry to the island
In the island gardens
Outfit guide
What to wear at Bhavani Island
For photos at Bhavani Island, white, teal and coral work beautifully — they stand out against the setting without fighting it. Pick one hero colour and keep the rest of the look calm so you stay the subject of the frame.
Best outfit colors for photos
Trending wear for this spot
Popular modern looks travellers are wearing across Vijayawada.
Traditional wear for this spot
Timeless, cultural outfits worn across Vijayawada.
Eat nearby
Food near Bhavani Island
Round out the visit with something to eat. Look for pesarattu nearby.
Special dishes to try
Search food by craving
Good to know
Local tips
Ask at the ghat which boats are running before you buy a ticket.
Go in the late afternoon, when the heat eases and the light on the water is warm.
Carry a hat and water, as the lawns have little shade.
Check which activities are open that day, because they change with the season.
Wear a life jacket on the boat even if others do not.
Keep your camera or phone in a zip bag in case of spray on windy days.
Head back in time for the barrage lights, which come on soon after dark.
An island named for the goddess
Bhavani Island lies in the Krishna just upstream of the Prakasam Barrage, a few minutes by boat from the city. It covers about 133 acres and is one of the larger river islands in India. It takes its name from Bhavani, another name for Durga, whose temple on Indrakeeladri looks down on it.
Getting across
Boats run from the riverfront ghats on the city side, near Berm Park and Punnami Ghat. You pay for the boat, and there are separate charges for activities and rides on the island. The trip across takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Boats and timings can change, so ask at the ghat which jetty is running.
What is on the island
The island is run by the state tourism corporation. There are lawns and gardens, a maze, children's play areas, cycling and some water sports, and a resort for overnight stays. What is open varies from season to season, so treat it as a green place to spend a relaxed afternoon rather than a list of attractions.
The river view
The best part for many visitors is the ride itself. From the water you see the barrage, the city skyline and the temple hill together, with fishing boats and birds in between.
When not to go
When the Krishna is high in the monsoon, or when the barrage gates are open, boats may stop and the island can close. Midday in summer is very hot, as there is little shade on the lawns. In the cooler months, a late afternoon visit followed by the barrage lights makes a good evening.
Questions
Bhavani Island — FAQ
What is the best time to visit Bhavani Island?
Late afternoon, when the heat eases and the river turns gold; early morning from the boat for calm water and the hill behind. Take a photo from the boat looking back at Indrakeeladri and the city skyline, with the open river in the front of the frame.
Is there an entry fee at Bhavani Island?
Entry to Bhavani Island is by ferry + entry.
What are the opening hours of Bhavani Island?
Bhavani Island is open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
What should I wear at Bhavani Island?
White, teal and coral photograph especially well here. Explore the trending and traditional outfit ideas on this page for full looks.
How crowded does Bhavani Island get?
Crowd levels are typically medium. To miss the busiest window: late afternoon, when the heat eases and the river turns gold; early morning from the boat for calm water and the hill behind.
What food should I try near Bhavani Island?
Try pesarattu at spots close by.
How do I get to Bhavani Island?
By boat from the riverfront ghats on the city side, near Berm Park and Punnami Ghat. The crossing takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
How big is Bhavani Island?
About 133 acres. It sits in the Krishna just upstream of the Prakasam Barrage.
Can I stay overnight on Bhavani Island?
The state tourism corporation has run a resort on the island. Check current availability and booking directly before you plan around it.
Is Bhavani Island open during the monsoon?
Not always. When the river is high or the barrage gates are open, boats can stop and the island may close. Check at the ghat first.