AP investments worth ₹12,000 crore in tourism sector, says Kandula Durgest

Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh said due to a proactive tourism policy unveiled by the NDA Government led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the State has attracted investments worth ₹12,000 crore in last one year.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Harita Yatri Nivas Hotel rebuilt here by the AP Tourism Development Corporaiton on Saturday along with Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribhaat.

He retierated AP's commitment to reviving and strengthening the tourism sector with significant investments and infrastructure upgrades. The Minister and the MP inaugurated the renovated **Yatri Nivas (Haritha Hotel)** near Appu Ghar in MVP Colony. The facility, modernised at a cost of ₹13.5 crore, now includes 41 rooms, AC suites, deluxe and executive rooms, a meeting hall, bar, and restaurant**, aimed at enhancing the stay experience for both domestic and international tourists.

Addressing the media later,the Minister said that the State had attracted tourism investments worth nearly ₹12,000 crore** within the past year. “We are developing **tourism hubs and circuits** across Andhra Pradesh to encourage tourists to spend more days exploring the State. Several investors have come forward under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to develop hotels and resorts,” he said.

Durgest added that Visakhapatnam was a natural gateway for tourism in Andhra Pradesh, with Araku Valley, Simhachalam, and other cultural and natural attractions nearby. “We are also strengthening facilities under APTDC hotels and resorts to provide quality accommodation across the State,” he said.

On the occasion, the Minister and MP jointly released the brochure of the upcoming Vizag Food Festival 2025, to be held from September 5 to 7. The festival will showcase the city’s culinary diversity, local delicacies, and cultural events.

Highlighting tourism initiatives in the city, Durgesh said that **hop-on hop-off double-decker buses" introduced in the city recently along the Beach Road, covering 14 tourist spots between RK Beach and Thotlakonda will be an added attraction to tourists to Visakhapatnam. While the initial ticket price was fixed at ₹500, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed the price be reduced to ₹250 for adults and ₹100 for children, making it affordable for all.

Speaking on the occasion,

MP Sribharat said the government’s vision was to make Visakhapatnam an international tourism hub. “With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and food traditions, Visakhapatnam has the potential to attract global travellers. Tourism growth will create new employment opportunities for youth and strengthen the local economy,” he said.

He added that modern infrastructure such as the Yatri Nivas, along with events like the Vizag Food Festival, will significantly improve the city’s appeal.