At a high-profile press interaction during the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Meet (APT M) 2026, the state’s Tourism Minister *Kandula Durgesh* addressed a wide range of questions from reporters about infrastructure development, sustainability, Buddhist and cruise tourism, festival promotion, women’s safety, language barriers, and future tourism strategies.
The minister provided details of current initiatives, government policies in progress, and the state’s efforts to position Andhra Pradesh as a major tourism destination.
*New Accommodation and Infrastructure Plans
When asked about the availability of accommodation and tourist infrastructure in emerging destinations such as Gandikotaa, the Minister confirmed that development is underway.
He stated that in the Gandikota area, a *star-rated hotel* is planned through private investment, and that *tent cities and additional facilities will be ready in approximately two years. Currently, tourism infrastructure includes Haritha Hotels, private tents and homestays providing around **1,000 rooms*, and plans are underway to expand this inventory as demand grows.
Officials expect that this will allow visitors to stay for several days, increasing both tourist numbers and local economic activity.
*Balancing Development with Environmental Sustainability
Addressing concerns raised by reporters about construction near *Araku Valley*, the Minister emphasized that the government prioritizes environmental protection alongside growth.
He noted that a *special sub-committee*, chaired by senior government officials, has been formed to oversee environmental safeguards. He stressed that development activities would adhere to environmental regulations, with measures taken to ensure that projects do not harm natural surroundings.
“Even in areas like araku valley,” he said, referring to a well-known tourist spot, “we will ensure that development does not destroy the ecology.”
*Buddhist Circuit and Inbound Tourism Potential*
On the subject of Buddhist tourism, the Minister highlighted the state’s rich heritage. He mentioned locations such as *Chaklakotta, **Bhavikonna, **Gattasala, **Nagarjuna Kuntai, and **Amaravati* as key sites with high potential.
Plans are underway to develop a *Buddhist circuit* supported by the *Central Government’s East Coast Development Program*, and proposals have been submitted to national authorities to formalize this initiative.
*Cruise Tourism Opportunities
Responding to questions about cruise tourism, the Minister confirmed that *Cordelia Cruises* will operate a regular line connecting *Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Puducherry* by the end of the year.
He added that although international cruise services are not yet established, the state is formulating policies to attract international liners in the future.
*Festival Tourism and Cultural Promotion
On the subject of festival promotion, the Minister said that Andhra Pradesh is organizing a range of festivities across different regions to boost domestic tourism and showcase local culture.
He mentioned festivals such as Visakha Utsav, Plimduo Festival, Gandikota Festival, and **Dasara celebrations*, all aimed at strengthening the cultural brand of the state and providing platforms for local artists and communities.
*Women’s Safety in Tourism Areas
When asked about safety measures for women travelers, the Minister emphasized that the government is actively working on policies and plans to ensure the safety and security of women across tourist destinations.
He stated that even before formal policy implementation, the state is committed to responsible tourism that prioritizes women’s safety, with development and enforcement of comprehensive protocols underway.
*Developing Tourism Beyond Visakhapatnam
A reporter asked whether tourism focus is limited to well-known areas like *Visakhapatnam*.
The Minister clarified that the government is committed to developing a broad network of circuits across the state, including *Tirumala, **Srisailam, **Kalahasti, **Vijayawada, **Amaravati, and **Konaseema*, each with unique cultural, spiritual and natural attractions.
He emphasized that Andhra Pradesh has a diverse tourism portfolio — not only beach destinations but hills, forests, rivers and historic sites — and that development strategies will reflect this diversity.
*Language Barrier and Tourist Facilitation
On concerns about language barriers for tourists from outside the region, the Minister stated that language would not be a barrier to tourism growth.
He explained that many local vendors understand basic English and Hindi, digital payment systems are widely in use, and the government plans to train approximately *10,000 tour guides* who can assist visitors in overcoming communication challenges.
*Wedding and Destination Tourism
During the press interaction, a question was raised about *wedding tourism*.
The Minister affirmed that the state is exploring wedding and destination event tourism opportunities. Andhra Pradesh has identified scenic locations for destination weddings, and discussions with event planners — both national and international — are underway to position the state as a preferred wedding destination
Overall Outlook
The press conference made clear that Andhra Pradesh’s tourism strategy is *expanding rapidly beyond a single destination or model*. With ongoing infrastructure development, environmental protections, circuit-based tourism plans, and targeted initiatives such as cruise tourism and cultural festivals, the state aims to diversify its tourism offerings and attract visitors from across India and the world.
State tourism leadership reaffirmed a commitment to sustainable, inclusive and culturally rich tourism growth — supported by policy frameworks and future planning.
