Antarvedi is a serene pilgrimage town located in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, famous for the Antarvedi Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and the confluence of the Vasishta Godavari river with the Bay of Bengal. Vijayawada, a bustling city in Andhra Pradesh, serves as a major gateway for travelers heading to Antarvedi, making this route popular among devotees and tourists alike.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Vijayawada to Antarvedi, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. Whether you are planning a spiritual trip, a weekend getaway, or a cultural exploration, you will find detailed tips on timings, routes, and local travel to help you plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Vijayawada to Antarvedi – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a convenient and affordable option for reaching Antarvedi from Vijayawada, especially for those who prefer a relaxed journey through Andhra Pradesh’s scenic countryside. However, Antarvedi does not have a direct railway station, so travelers need to combine train travel with road transport.

• Nearest railway station:

  The closest railway station to Antarvedi is Razole, about 20 km away. Vijayawada Junction is a major rail hub with frequent trains to Razole, making it easy to plan your trip.

• Travel time and cost:

  The train journey from Vijayawada to Razole takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the class. Trains like passenger and MEMU services run daily.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains on this route are frequent but mostly passenger trains, so expect basic seating and facilities. Booking via IRCTC or at Vijayawada station counters is recommended to secure your seat.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Razole station, you can hire local autos or taxis to cover the 20 km stretch to Antarvedi. Shared autos are available but may not run late in the evening.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon afternoons as trains may face delays due to waterlogging in low-lying areas near the Godavari delta.

Bus

Bus travel is a popular and cost-effective way to reach Antarvedi from Vijayawada, with several state-run and private buses operating daily. This mode suits budget travelers and those who prefer direct road connectivity.

• Bus operators and routes:

  APSRTC runs regular buses from Vijayawada RTC Bus Station to Antarvedi via Razole. Private operators also offer services, often with slightly better comfort.

• Travel duration and fares:

  The bus journey covers around 110 km and takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹100 to ₹200 depending on the bus type (ordinary or deluxe).

• Frequency and timing:

  Buses run frequently from early morning till evening. It’s best to avoid late-night travel as services reduce and local transport options at Antarvedi become scarce.

• Road conditions:

  The route primarily follows NH216 and SH41, which are well-maintained highways with scenic views of the Godavari delta and coconut groves. Expect tolls and occasional traffic near towns.

• Tips for comfort:

  Choose deluxe or AC buses during summer months to avoid heat discomfort. Carry water and snacks as stops are limited on this route.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Vijayawada to Antarvedi offers flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic Godavari delta at your own pace. This option is ideal for families or groups who prefer comfort and multiple stops.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH16 to Rajahmundry, then NH216 towards Antarvedi. The total distance is about 110 km and takes roughly 3 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Road quality and tolls:

  The highways are generally in good condition with clear signage. There are a few toll plazas on NH16, so keep some cash handy for toll payments.

• Rest stops and sightseeing:

  You can stop at scenic spots like the Dowleswaram Barrage near Rajahmundry or local eateries serving Andhra cuisine. Fuel stations are available along the route.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid driving during peak traffic hours in Vijayawada and Rajahmundry to save time. Early morning departures are recommended for a smooth journey.

• Parking at Antarvedi:

  Parking is available near the temple complex but can get crowded during festivals. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Vijayawada to Antarvedi is a hassle-free and comfortable option, especially for those unfamiliar with the route or traveling in small groups. It offers door-to-door service and flexibility in timing.

• Booking options:

  You can book taxis via Ola, Uber, or local travel agencies in Vijayawada. Prepaid and outstation cabs are available with fixed rates.

• Cost and travel time:

  Taxi fares typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 one way, depending on vehicle type and negotiation. The journey takes around 3 to 3.5 hours.

• Advantages:

  Taxis provide direct travel without waiting times, and drivers often act as informal guides for local attractions.

• Timing flexibility:

  You can start your trip at any time, which is helpful for early morning temple visits or late returns.

• Local taxi availability:

  At Antarvedi, local autos and taxis are limited, so pre-booking your return cab is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Vijayawada to Antarvedi, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance:

  Use IRCTC for trains or APSRTC online portals for buses to avoid last-minute rush, especially during festival seasons.

• Reach Vijayawada station or bus stand early:

  Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus bay easily and avoid crowd stress.

• Carry light luggage and water:

  The journey can be long and hot, so pack essentials including water bottles and snacks, especially if you choose train or bus travel.

• From Razole station or bus stop, arrange local transport:

  Use pre-booked autos or taxis to cover the last 20 km to Antarvedi, as shared transport options may be infrequent.

• Plan your return trip:

  Check bus and train timings back to Vijayawada in advance, or confirm taxi availability to avoid waiting late at Antarvedi.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Vijayawada and Antarvedi are generally safe for travelers, but keep an eye on belongings in crowded places and avoid isolated areas after dark.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and eat at trusted eateries. Local Andhra cuisine is spicy; if you have a sensitive stomach, choose milder options.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains, book tickets at least a week in advance during festival seasons via IRCTC. For buses, APSRTC’s online booking is reliable and offers seat confirmation.

• Local commute:

  Use prepaid autos or Ola/Uber in Vijayawada. At Antarvedi, local autos are limited, so pre-arranged taxis are recommended.

• Luggage:

  Travel light due to limited storage on passenger trains and shared buses. Carry a small daypack for temple visits.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon months (June to September) can cause road delays and occasional train cancellations due to flooding in the Godavari delta.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Vijayawada to Antarvedi is during the cooler months from October to March, when weather conditions are pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and temple visits.

Summer months can be hot and humid, while monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans. Planning your trip during weekdays can help avoid weekend traffic and crowded transport.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Vijayawada (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) to save travel time.

• Steer clear of major festival weekends like Sankranti and Navratri when transport and accommodation are in high demand.

• Early morning departures are best to enjoy cooler temperatures and less traffic.

• During monsoon, check weather and train/bus status before starting your journey.

Arrival at Antarvedi & What to Expect

On arrival at Antarvedi, travelers are greeted by a tranquil riverside setting with the famous Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple as the main attraction. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it a rewarding destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers.

Local transport options are limited, so most visitors walk or hire autos from the main road to the temple complex. Nearby attractions include the confluence point of the Vasishta Godavari river and the Bay of Bengal, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities. Accommodation options are basic, with guesthouses and lodges available near the temple.

Conclusion

Among the various travel options, taking a train from Vijayawada to Razole followed by a taxi or auto to Antarvedi is the most economical and practical for most travelers. It balances cost, comfort, and accessibility, especially for those who enjoy scenic rail journeys.

For those seeking convenience and flexibility, hiring a taxi directly from Vijayawada is ideal despite the higher cost. With proper planning and the tips shared in this guide, you can confidently embark on your journey to Antarvedi and enjoy a memorable spiritual and cultural experience.