Andhra Pradesh set to become world-class tourism destination with new airports, seaplane services

AP has the potential to be world class tourism destination: Rammohan Naidu

The Union government has pledged comprehensive support for expanding tourism infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh, with plans underway for new airports and seaplane services to improve accessibility to the state's tourist destinations.

Union Minister for Civil Aviation K Rammohan Naidu made the announcement at the 41st Annual Convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), held under the theme "India, The World's Next Tourism Opportunity".

Natural and spiritual resources

Rammohan Naidu said that Andhra Pradesh possesses abundant natural, spiritual, and cultural resources necessary to transform it into a world-class tourism destination. He emphasised that the state is home to numerous hidden tourism gems, and that air connectivity to major tourist destinations across the state, including Visakhapatnam, was being strengthened.

The minister noted that Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu firmly believes the future belongs to the tourism sector and is prioritising it with special attention.

Seven circuits for Godavari Pushkarams

Minister for Tourism Kandula Durgesh revealed that seven special tourism circuits have been planned for the river Godavari Pushkarams in 2027. These circuits encompass the Pancharama Kshetras, Shakti Peethas, Devi Kshetras, Vaishnava Divya Kshetras, Godavari Heritage Temples, Pushkar Ghats, and the Akhanda Godavari regions.

He explained that tourism packages have been designed to connect various destinations, including the historic Havelock Bridge, Papikondalu, Pushkar Ghats, Harathi venues with pilgrimage sites such as Antarvedi, Vadapalli, Appanapalli, Mandapalli, Samarlakota, Draksharamam, and Palakollu.

Durgesh announced that the state government was working towards strengthening Andhra Pradesh into a pivotal and premier tourism destination on India's tourism map.

Initiative launched

To mark the commencement of the convention, the dignitaries unveiled the 'Indian Association of Tour Operators Manual Book'. Durgesh also launched the poster for 'The Godavari Calls': a prestigious initiative by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department designed to bring spirituality, culture, and heritage together on a single platform, much like the Kumbh Mela.

The minister added that the poster highlights the significance of the Godavari Pushkaram, scheduled for 2027, and provides details regarding tourism circuits.

Source: The Hindu