Officials working on comprehensive ‘Tourism Festival Calendar’

Chief Minister Mr Nara Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to organise engaging, year-round events to ensure the sustained growth of the tourism sector and attract more visitors to Andhra Pradesh.

He ordered the creation of a comprehensive ‘Tourism Festival Calendar’ during a recent review meeting with tourism officials at the Secretariat.

The CM emphasized the need for region-specific events based on the unique appeal of each tourist destination. Stating that Andhra Pradesh has immense potential in tourism he set a goal of achieving at least 20% growth.

Mr Naidu called for the design of tourism-friendly projects through consultancy support, noting that reputed companies across the country would be drawn to invest in such initiatives. He also suggested exploring the feasibility of night safaris, similar to Singapore.

Develop Coastlines

The CM instructed officials to identify the state’s most picturesque coastlines and take focused steps for their development. Despite being a leader in aquaculture, he pointed out that the state lacks projects reflecting this status and proposed setting up dolphin shows.

Mr Naidu emphasized efforts to get Gandikota recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. He also called for expediting works under the PRASAD scheme at Simhachalam and Annavaram.

Plans were laid out for establishing 150 Araku coffee stalls modeled on experience centres across the state.

Officials briefed the CM about plans to set up experience centres in 14 locations including Kondapalli, Kuchipudi, Kadiyam, Mangalagiri, Chirala, Bapatla, and Araku.

Officials informed the CM about the establishment of “Tent Cities” comprising 180 tents in 6 locations, including Araku and Gandikota, as well as the launch of sea and river cruise services. Houseboats will soon be available for tourists.