Andhra Pradesh unveils 'Godavari Declaration' to boost tourism before Pushkarams-2027
Andhra Pradesh launched the 'Godavari Declaration' on World Tourism Day to promote tourism ahead of Godavari Pushkarams-2027, highlighting ₹20,000 crore in investments and new infrastructure.
Andhra Pradesh has launched a new tourism initiative, the Godavari Declaration titled "The Godavari Calls," aimed at drawing visitors to the Godavari region ahead of the Godavari Pushkarams-2027. The declaration was unveiled by Minister of Culture and Tourism Kandula Durgesh during World Tourism Day celebrations on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Durgesh said the Godavari region has become a favoured location for film shootings, while a homestay initiative has also gained traction. He announced that a tent city and the Havelock bridge would be developed in the run-up to the Pushkarams.
The Minister said the tourism sector, which recently secured industry status, has attracted ₹20,000 crore in investment in the State. At least 16 major hotels are under construction, with about ₹6,000 crore of investment drawn over the past two years.
On technology adoption, Mr. Durgesh said 130 tourist destinations, including temples, have been documented using AI tools and shared online. He noted that Andhra Pradesh's 974-kilometre coastline, culinary and tribal diversity, 21 Geographical Indication-tagged crafts, arts and foods, and Araku coffee position it to become a leading destination in the country.
East Godavari District Collector Kirthi Chekuri said the Godavari region, with its landscapes, temples and archaeological sites, would soon become a premier choice for travellers. She said the dense forest cover of Maredumilli would emerge as a sought-after spot for sighting the Milky Way.
Special Chief Secretary for Youth Advancement, Tourism and Culture S.S. Ravat said technology, including AI, should not replace the authenticity of tourist destinations. The department is using AI tools for translating local languages and documenting destinations. He observed that tourism today is less a competition among destinations and more about experiences.
APTDC Managing Director P. Ravi Subhash said the corporation would soon promote bike expeditions on the Rajamahendravaram-Maredumilli, Visakhapatnam-Araku and Tirupati-Gandikota routes to encourage adventure tourism.
A.P. Star Hotels Association president R.V. Swamy said at least 45 hotels are under construction in Amaravati, Tirupati, Kakinada and Visakhapatnam.