Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has recommended the formation of a high-level committee, headed by the Chief Secretary, to boost tourism in the state. During a tourism review meeting, he emphasized the goal of providing 50,000 rooms by 2029. Additionally, he instructed officials to promote 10,000 homestays in key tourist areas and implement a rating system for these accommodations due to the rising number of tourists visiting the state.
The Chief Minister outlined plans for extensive development of beaches stretching from Baruva to Nellore. He also proposed the enhancement of eco-tourism circuits in regions like Araku Valley, Maredumilli, and Chintapalli. Furthermore, he called for the establishment of caravan parks in 10–15 locations to offer families a safe nature experience with necessary amenities.
Naidu revealed intentions to introduce caravan parks and tent cities, aiming for 1,000 units by the time of the Godavari Pushkarams. The state government’s agenda includes setting up amusement parks in Tirupati and Visakhapatnam, as well as promoting eco- and temple tourism in collaboration with the forest and endowments departments. Emphasizing the need for rapid development, the Chief Minister directed officials to expedite projects at major tourist attractions such as Gandikota, Suryalanka Beach, and Borra Caves.
Plans are in place to boost seaplane services under the UDAN scheme and develop water aerodromes in Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Srisailam, Gandikota, and Kambham Cheruvu. Cruise tourism from Visakhapatnam and Krishnapatnam Port will also be encouraged. Naidu highlighted the importance of the creative economy, envisioning Amaravati as a Creative City that fosters content creation and cultural industries. He mentioned actor Sanjay Dutt’s interest in investing in such initiatives.
Officials reported to the Chief Minister that the state welcomed 309.2 million tourists last year, with a 21% growth in the first nine months of the current year. The government aims to sustain and accelerate this growth through comprehensive tourism planning, including temple tourism circuits.
