APTDC Plans Major Boost for Water Sports, Eco-Tourism & Resorts in Visakhapatnam Region
The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) is rolling out an ambitious plan to expand water sports, eco-tourism, and resort facilities across the erstwhile Visakhapatnam district, aiming to transform the region into a world-class tourist hub.
APTDC Regional Director VB Jagadeesh Gedela revealed that feasibility studies are underway at Jodugullapalem, Rushikonda, Bheemili, Yarada (Visakhapatnam), Tatipudi (Vizianagaram), Kondakarla Ava (Anakapalle), and Tajangi reservoir (Alluri Seetharamaraju district). A special committee will finalize projects based on tourism potential.
Eco-tourism projects are also being planned at Dabbanda and the Visakhapatnam Zoo in Anandapuram mandal, with Managing Director Amrapali reviewing proposals.
To strengthen tourist infrastructure, information centres in Visakhapatnam are being upgraded. The Beach Road centre will soon serve as a Central Reservation Office (CRO), while another CRO is coming up at Rushikonda Beach watch tower, supported by the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA).
In a first for the city, two double-decker hop-on hop-off buses will soon operate between RK Beach and Thotlakonda, with charging stations at Endada. The route will connect major attractions, including TU-142 Museum, VMRDA Park, Rushikonda Ropeway, and Rushikonda Beach.
APTDC also plans to renovate tourist resorts—including Ananthagiri Haritha Hill Resort (16 rooms), Haritha Valley Resort in Araku (8 rooms), and Jungle Bell Resort in Tyda (16 rooms). Proposals worth ₹18 crore are being prepared for tendering.
At Tyda, bamboo cottages will be replaced with eco-friendly tented stays using German hangers. Meanwhile, the Borra Caves project, backed by ₹29 crore central funding, will feature a new parking facility, commercial complexes, and pedestrian-friendly walkways.
“These projects showcase APTDC’s commitment to strengthening tourist infrastructure while promoting eco-friendly travel experiences,” said Jagadeesh. “Our aim is to attract more domestic and international tourists to Visakhapatnam and surrounding destinations.”