1East Godavari is the most populous district in Andhra Pradesh with over 5 million residents as of the 2011 census.
2The district consists of 7 revenue divisions and includes 1,681 villages, 2 municipal corporations, and 7 municipalities.
3Education in East Godavari is provided by 5,986 schools, with a total enrollment of 722,123 students across various educational levels.
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"East Godavari is the most populous district in Andhra Pradesh with over 5 million residents as of the 2011 census."
— Top Places to visit in East Godavari , Kakinada , Andhra Pradesh
East Godavari district or Toorpu Godavari Jilla is a district in Coastal Andhra region of Andhra Pradesh, India. Its district headquarters is at Kakinada. As of Census 2011, it became the most populous district of the state with a population of 5,151,549. Rajahmundry and Kakinada are the two largest cities in the Godavari districts in terms of population.
Demographics
According to the 2011 census East Godavari district has a population of 5,154,296.[10] This gives it a ranking of 19th in India (out of a total of 640 districts) and 1st in the state.[10] The district has a population density of 477 inhabitants per square kilometre (1,240/sq mi). Its population growth rate over the decade 2001–2011 was 5.1%. East Godavari has a sex ratio of 1005 females for every 1000 males, and a literacy rate of 71.35%.[10]
Household indicators
In 2007–2008 the International Institute for Population Sciences interviewed 1019 households in 38 villages across the district.[12] They found that 92.5% had access to electricity, 96.7% had drinking water, 50.4% toilet facilities, and 30.9% lived in a pucca (permanent) home.[12] 28.6% of girls wed before the legal age of 18 and 79% of interviewees carried a BPL card.
Divisions
Revenue divisions of East Godavari district
The district has 7 revenue divisions namely, Amalapuram, Etapaka, Kakinada, Peddapuram, Rajahmundry, Ramachandrapuram and Rampachodavaram with 64 mandals.[13][14][15] These 64 mandals consists of 1,681 villages, 2 municipal corporation, 7 municipalities and 10 census towns. It is the one of the two districts, alongside Chittoor district to possess two municipal corporations namely, Kakinada and Rajahmundry. The 7 municipalities in the district include, Amalapuram, Mandapeta, Peddapuram, Pithapuram, Ramachandrapuram, Samalkota, Tuni. After the merger of Dowleswaram, Hukumpeta and Katheru into Rajahmundry Municipal Corporation, there exists 7 census towns of Arempudi, Bandarulanka, Chidiga, Morampudi, Ramanayyapeta, Rampachodavaram, Suryaraopeta.
Education
The primary and secondary school education is imparted by government, aided and private schools, under the School Education Department of the state.[22][23] As per the school information report for the academic year 2015-16, there are a total of 5,986 schools. They include, 29 government, 3,452 mandal and zilla parishads, 1 residential, 1688 private, 2 model, 12 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV), 285 municipal and 517 other types of schools.[24] The total number of students enrolled in primary, upper primary and high schools of the district are 722,123.[25]
The district has universities located at Rajahmundry City such as Adikavi Nannaya University Rajahmundry, Telugu University, Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University. There are numerous educational institutes with Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada, District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) in Rajahmundry, established in 1989 for the benefit of teacher trainees and in-service teachers. There are many educational institutions that provide education in different fields such as Engineering, Medical, Law, Pharmacy, Polytechnic and Postgraduate colleges etc. Some of the notable universities, colleges are Rangaraya Medical College in Kakinada and Govt Pithapuram Rajah College, Kakinada.
Tourism
Vakalapudi beach at Kakinada
East Godavari has many visiting places such as temples and nurseries.[citation needed] Historical temples are located at Someswaram, Amalapuram, Annavaram, Antarvedi, Draksharamam, Kotipalli, Pithapuram, Rajahmundry, and Samalkota.
Corangi Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 15 km from Kakinada on Kakinada–Yanam Road. Kadiyapu lanka, 20 km from Rajamahendravaram, is the location of many plant nurseries. Other attractions are Sir Arthur Cotton Museum at Dhavaleswaram, Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary. Eco tourism projects are located at Maredumilli, Papikondalu Rampa and Tuni Talupulamma lova is a temple in East Godavari district.
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1. Religious Tourism
1.AINAVILLI : It is located at a distance of 72km from Kakinada. It is a land of unspoiled beauty which oozes of history. It is dedicated to Sri Siddhi Vinayaka Swamy. Devotees take a vow to visit the temple again if their wishes are fulfilled. It has two gopurams (towers) sculpted skillfully with tales and idols. It is said that the Vyasa Maharishi installed the Ganapathi idol.
2. ANTHARVEDI: It is located about 130kms from Kakinada. It is flanked by beautiful waters of sea to the east, Godavari to the west and Raktakulya River to the north. There are some well known spots belonging to this holy shrine such as Sagar Sangam and Chakrateertham. It is also called Mukti Kshetra of Lord Narasimha and the Annual Mela runs for about nine days when Antarvedi seems to be the Kaliyuga Vaikunta.
3. APPANAPALLI : A remote village in Mamidikuru which is 72kms from Kakinada via Yanam. Being the abode of Lord Balaji, it has acquired reputation as second Tirupati of Konaseema. It is flanked by Godavari on 3 sides. We can find good accommodation at decent guest houses & TTD Choultries. This shrine derives its name after a Rishi.
4. MURAMALLA: Muramalla is located about 20km from Amalapuram and is home to the popular shrine Sri Veereswara Swamy Vari Idol which attracts people. It is believed that devotees who still haven’t got married, who find it difficult to get good proposals, get married with just a mere visit to this temple. Not only that, childless couples, and couples who do not get along believe to find respite here.
5.PALIVELA: Palivela is located about 90km from Kakinada is known for the temple where Lord Uma Kouppulingeswara Swamy idol is situated. It is believed that the idol was installed by Maharshi Agastya. There used to be 7 Mandapas which are named after 7 days of the week.
6. RYALI: Ryali is located 74km from Kakinada. It is an enchanting place situated between the rivers Vashista and Gowtami. In this temple the exquisite idol of Jaganadh Swamy is made of black stone. It has MahaVishnu in front and Jagan Mohini on back side and can also catch a glimpse of ten incarnations of concerts, Thumbara, Narada, Rambha, Urvasi, Garuda, Ganga and many more. This shrine is referred as “Swayambhu”
7. VANAPALLI: Vanapalli is located about 21km from Amalapuram and 70km from Kakinada via Ravulapalem. The temple of lord ‘Pallalamma’ Ammavaru is said to have divine powers of healing. A statue of jackal was found under the idol.
8. DRAKSHARAMA: Draksharama is located 28km from Kakinada, situated on the Eastern bank of Godavari. It’s history of sacred pilgrimage dealt within Skanda Purana. It is a rare view where god & goddess (Astadasa Shakti Petas) equally shower blessings. There is one such in Varanasi, second in SriSailam and third in Draksharama with Bhimanatha and Manikyamba. This is ‘Swayambhu’ and is one of the ‘Pancharamas’.
9. SAMALKOT: Samalkot is about 12kms from Kakinada. It is famous and one of the ‘Pancharamas’. This was built in the 9th century. Lord Bhimeswara Swamy appears as Ekashila Shiva Linga along with Ekashila Nandi. Darshan of Shiva Linga is at first floor, along with goddess shri Bala Tripura Sundari, and Pushkarini (lake) can be seen.
10.TALUPULAMMA LOVA : Talupulamma Lova is often claimed as “gods own district” located not far from Annavaram town. It is abode of Talupulamma Thalli. People believe she would protect from accidents and dangers. It is said to be “Swayambhu”. It is a fascinating and irresistible destination for lovers of nature and adventure and is located 70km from Kakinada.
11. PANDAVULA METTA: Pandavula Metta is a hillock nearer to Peddapuram. This hill was in midst of a jungle. It is believed that Pandavas had lived here for some time during their exile. One can also see Bhimas feet even today. One should climb 108 steps to reach the temple and can find two natural caves on hill facing east. It is about 20kms from Kakinada.
12. ANNAVARAM: Annavaram is one of the most famous holy shrines enjoying popularity next to Tirupati. The temple is built in Dravidian style. The Lord Satyadeva with Anantha Lakshmi and Lord Shiva on other side took his abode on Ratnagiri. Every Hindu performs ‘Sri Satya Narayana Vratham’ throughout India for wealth, education and success. Especially, the newly married couple comes here and performs poojas for good and healthy relationship. It is also very famous for the god’s “prasadam” which is served in dried leaves till today.
13. BIKKAVOLU: Bikkavolu temple is dedicated to Lord Vinayaka. The main deity inside the temple is 7 feet tall. This is a “Swayambhu”. It is located 30kms from Kakinada. It is believed that the idol was installed during 849 AD and has been increasing year by year. Here the devotees whisper their wishes in lord’s ear. The other fascinating thing is the water that comes out from bottom portion of left leg of the lord.
14. GOLLALA MAMIDADA: Gollala Mamidada is located 20kms from Kakinada. It is in the midst of coconut groves and green fields. Suryanarayana Swamy temple is situated here. It has 170 feet high gopuram. The temple is situated in 16 acres. The whole gopuram consists of 100’s of carvings which are said to be an eye feast and takes lot of time to see every carving which is constructed based on different epics of god & goddess. It is also known as ‘Chinna Bhadrachalam’.
15. MARKANDEYA TEMPLE: One of the ancient temples of Rajahmundry. It is about 70kms from Kakinada. The temple was rebuilt in 1818 which shows Lord Shiva along with all other deities in one place. It is located near Ghats of Godavari. Devotees generally have a dip in river Godavari before they enter the temple.
16. MANDAPALLI: After the huge battle between demons & Shani, Shani won the battle. To get rid of ‘Bhramahatyapaatakam’, he installed a Shiva linga which he called Mandeswara Swamy. It is about 66km from Kakinada. Devotees offer prayers in wide range on “Shani Trayodhasi” believing that their sins are washed off.
17. KUKKUTESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE: It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a ‘Swayambhu’ in the form of cock’s head. It is located in Pitapuram which is 56km away from Rajahmundry. People from many parts of the state throng to the temple during ‘Maha Shiva Raathri’.
18. VADAPALLI: Vadapalli is located 10km from Ravulapalem. The roof around the temple is filled with Govindanamaalu. It is believed Lord Venkateswara is pleased and fulfills their wishes if the devotees perform 11 pradakshinas.
19. THOLI TIRUPATI: This temple is 9000 years old, it is said that there are 108 Tirupatis throughout the country and this is the first of all. It is about 27km towards north from Kakinada. We can see smiling posture of Lord Venkateswara, Shanka & Chakra are in altered positions in comparison with other Balaji idols.
20. ANDHRA SABARIMALA: This is a replica of Swamy Ayyappa temple at Kerala. It is about 64kms from Kakinada. It is said that the devotees who cannot go to Sabarimala (Kerala) can offer their prayers here. There are many other temples located in the same premises.
21. KORUKONDA: It is located about 60kms from Kakinda and 25kms from Rajahmundry. It is an ancient historic temple known as Vaishnava Divya Kshetram. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is a ‘Swayambhu’ idol situated at the top of a hill which can be accessed only through long flight of 650 steps. The temple was constructed 800 years ago.
22. ADURRU (BUDDHA STUPAS): It is a 2400 year old Buddhist site located on the west of Vianetaya. Amongst the 3 most popular Buddhist Stupas in the world, the first is in Adurru, the second is in Ranchi and the last one in Sarnath. The famous Mahastupa was built like giant wheel with 17 feet diameter.
23. ROYAL MOSQUE: The Royal Mosque which is situated in the midst of Rajahmundry was built in 1305A.D by Sumera Sahib son of Mohammad Bin Tughlak and is one of the oldest monument worth seeing. It has completed 700 years and it stood as a centre for religious harmony and brotherhood.
Kakinada beach which was later named as the NTR beach is a good destination for beach lovers. The event is expected to see a large number of tourists. The centre of attraction during the four day event will be the actors and guests from Telugu Film Industry. The horticulture from Kadiyam adds more color to the festival. The water sports that are organized with the support of aqua sector and Goa state administration is a special attraction.
KONASEEMA FESTIVAL
Konaseema Utsav is celebrated in a grand manner at Muramalla village, Polavaram mandal. Thousands of people from different parts of the region and other districts participate in the fest. The Utsav showcases the beauty and culture of this area. 2k run is organized and the replicas of prominent temples are arranged and several cultural programmes are also organized.
MANYAM JATARA
It is a three day fair which reflects the customs, traditions and culture of tribal community. To promote tourism, both the East Godavari district administration and Integrated Tribal Development Agency are jointly organizing ‘Manyam Jatara’. The Jatara comprises 60 percent local tribes and 40 percent people from other districts. Food items and different varieties of bamboo products would be exhibited during the festival.
PERURU
It is a small village located near Amalapuram in East Godavari district of coastal AP. Taking a walk in Peruru is akin to a walk in century’s old Andhra town. It’s filled with huge mansions which are quiet old and heritage houses. You can reach Peruru within 3-4 hours from Rajahmundry.
PANDAVA METTA
Not much known to people is Pandava Metta, a hillock nearer to Peddapuram, a small town in this district. This hillock tells us about the exile period of Pandavas. On their way to Rameswaram, they stayed in Peddapuram on a hill. That’s the reason this hill was named after their name.
2. Cultural Tourism
3. Eco Tourism
MAREDUMILLI
The Maredumilli forests are rich in biodiversity which form part of the Eastern Ghats. The tourism area is on Maredumilli – Badrachalam road, nearly 4kms away from Maredumilli village. The Jungle star campsite is located adjoining the Valamuru River with the stream flowing on 3 sides overlooking the Vali-Sugriva konda which is believed to be the battle ground of Vali-Sugriva during the Ramayana period. A rest house named ‘Abhayaranya Forest’ which was constructed in 1914, with all the facilities is in Maredumilli village. Suites are available here for stay of tourists.
KadiyamKADIYAM
Kadiyam a place nearly 14km away from Rajahmundry contains many lush green nurseries which provide a variety of plant species. The visitors can even buy different types of plants from the nurseries there. The flower show held in January every year is worth seeing. Huge varieties of plants for both home garden and agricultural purposes are exported to different places all over the world.
PAPI HILLS
The Papi hills are in Rajahmundry-Bhadrachalam boat way. It is a beautiful tourist place surrounded by dense forests. There is a National Park on the Papi hills which includes tigers, leopards, samba and spotted deer. There are packages for stay in the huts in Papi hills. The view of sunrise while travelling in the boat is very scenic.
RAMPACHODAVARAM
It is a tribal village 50kms from Rajahmundry which is rich in natural beauty. It is just 26km from Maredumilli also contains forests and waterfalls which are the most eco-friendly spots for nature lovers. The drive through the dense jungle is an exhilarating experience.
PINJANRAKONDA
It is one of the best picnic spots which are located in East Godavari district, A.P. It is just 80km from Rajahmundry and 84km from Kakinada and 90km from Tuni. There is no direct bus service. So one must visit Pinjarakonda on their own convenience. We can even visit Yeleru reservoir project at Yeleswaram which is 30km away from Pinjarakonda. The scenic view from Yeleswaram to Pinjarakonda is awe-striking.
CORINGA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
It is the 2nd largest stretch of mangrove forest in India with 35 mangrove trees species and more than 120 bird species located 18 km away from the port city of Kakinada, the headquarters of East Godavari district. One can go ferrying in the back waters of Gowthami and Godavari rivers. It is also famous for salt water crocodiles. The prime attraction is the 18km long sandpit which is the longest stretch in north-east.
KONASEEMA
It is an oasis of enchanting beauty, peace and tranquility that is a dream tour destination for all. One can have a glance at the surrounding countryside travelling by a bus or a train or boat. It is one of the most fertile lands; this area is known for its magnificent landscape, swaying coconut and palm trees. It is also rich in greenery and artistic temples. Another important aspect is its cuisine with a tasteful blend of local spices and fresh seafood.
3. Eco Tourism
4. Engineering Tourism
ROAD CUM RAILWAY BRIDGE
It is the Asia’s third largest road cum railway bridge crossing over the beautiful river Godavari. The bridge is 4.1km long which is commissioned by South Central Railway division of Indian railways. Its construction began in the early 1970 by Braithwaite, Burn and Jessop Construction Company and was inaugurated by the then President of India, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed in 1974 on Aug 16.
THE HAVELOCK BRIDGE
This old Godavari Bridge is also known as the Havelock Bridge which served trains passing between Howrah and Madras. It is the earliest of the three bridges that span the Godavari River at Rajahmundry. The construction of the bridge commenced on Nov 11, 1897. It was named after Sir Arthur Elibank Havelock, the then Governor of Madras. Now it’s finally planned to be converted into a tourist spot.
ARCH BRIDGE
The Godavari Arch Bridge was actually built to replace the Havelock Bridge. Its construction began in 1991 and lasted till 1997. It became fully operational for running trains from 2003. It is the latest of the three bridges that span the Godavari River at Rajahmundry. The bridge is located in two channels, the Kovvur channel and the Rajahmundry channel, and it is also known as the Kovvur –Rajahmundry Bridge.
THE FOURTH BRIDGE
It is a four lane bridge and its objective is to ease traffic congestion on the existing Rail Cum Road Bridge. Due to the construction of this bridge the distance between Chennai and Kolkata has been reduced by 50km.
COTTON BRIDGE
The Dowleswaram Barrage was built on the river Godavari under the supervision of a British irrigation engineer Sir Arthur Cotton in the year 1850. It is still considered as one of the engineering marvels.
4. Engineering Tourism
5. Forest Tourism
The district is having 336 sq.kms of forest area and cover 32% over in district area. Its’ forest tourism has already carved a niche as one of the fastest growing segments of tourism statewide. It has become a means to promote forestry management and support local communities.
Traveling around the forest arena of this region aids tourists observe and interact with local plant and animal life in their natural habitats. The experience is beyond words and the intangible, psychological benefits of the visit are countless. Even those indifferent to forest life and nature will get the essence of these. Some of the most popular and highly fascinating forest covered areas are:
CORINGA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY: Being the home to numerous species of plants and animals, Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is 18 km from the city of Kakinada. A wide variety of plants, chirping birds and a fair population of golden jackal, sea turtle and fishing cat are tourist attractions.
RAMPACHODAVARAM: Rampachodavaram is known for its dense jungle and waterfalls which can be accessed by jeeps. The drive through the dense jungle is an exhilarating experience. The distance is 82kms from district headquarters, Kakinada. The surroundings are very popular with regional filmmakers for their untouched natural beauty.
ADDATEEGALA: Located 67kms from Kakinada and 65kms from Rajahmundry, Addatheegala is full of forest-clad mountains, streams and deep gaping valleys. The place is a host to multitude of tribes with linguistic and cultural differences.
MAREDUMILLI: Maredumilli is located inside jungle and by the side of rivers. The distance from Rajahmundry is 87kms. With hills and waterfalls around, Maredumilli capture many tourists’ hearts. Two jungle resorts at this place are also available. This place is rich in coffee and rubber plantations.
SEETAPALLI: Located 75kms from Kakinada and 51kms from Rajahmundry. Though there is no railway station near to Seethapalli, the near-by city Rajahmundry facilitates with two railway stations. It is mostly considered safe to travel during the day time. Sri Bavanamma Talli Temple is famous in Seethapalli.
5. Forest Tourism
6. How to Reach
The total of core road network of the district is 1,274.067 km (791.669 mi). It includes, 613.289 km (381.080 mi) of existing and a proposed length of 660.780 km (410.590 mi).[21] The total rail network of the district is 171.34 km (106.47 mi).
The National Highway 5 connecting Chennai and Howrah passes through this district. Rajahmundry, Tuni, and Samalkot are the railway junctions in the district. The Chennai to Howrah rail line also passes through this district.
