Chandrababu Naidu pushes for more homestays, tent houses to boost tourism in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has asked the officials to prioritise homestays and tent houses among the flagship initiatives to develop the tourism sector and setting the stage for the State’s transformation into a world-class destination.

Chairing a review meeting of the Tourism Department at the Secretariat on Wednesday, Mr. Naidu said that homestay facilities in temple towns such as Tirupati and eco-friendly tent houses in scenic rural pockets such as Konaseema would help attract both domestic and international travellers.

He called for the participation of NRIs to ensure global standards and achieve ambitious accommodation targets—10,000 new hotel rooms by March 2026 and 50,000 rooms by 2029. Tourism projects will be developed across all 175 Assembly constituencies in the State, and land would be earmarked for the purpose accordingly.

The Chief Minister underlined that unique attractions should complement this accommodation drive. He proposed the promotion of eco-tourism in Chintapalli, elephant safaris in Kuppam, dolphin shows in Visakhapatnam, and a Disney World City in Anantapur.

The adoption of heritage by private partners was encouraged, with Kondapalli Fort being a model, while light-and-sound shows were suggested for Undavalli Caves.

Referring to coastal development, Mr. Naidu instructed the officials to create vibrant beachfronts, promote cruise, river, helicopter, and seaplane tourism, and launch new routes such as Vijayawada–Srisailam, Gandikota–Bengaluru, and Visakhapatnam–Araku.

He emphasised quick completion of projects sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan and PRASAD, covering Borra Caves, Araku, Lambasingi, Simhachalam, and Annavaram.

Rajamahendravaram will be developed into a dedicated tourism hub, while Vijayawada Dasara will be elevated to match the Mysuru Dasara, showcasing culture, art, cuisine, and handicraft.

The Chief Minister also stressed integration of local products such as Araku Coffee, red sandalwood crafts, Kuchipudi dance, and handlooms from Mangalagiri, Dharmavaram, and Venkatagiri with tourism branding.

Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh joined the review meeting in virtual mode.