AP's ₹77 Crore Plan to Boost Buddhist Tourism

Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh has announced the submission of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) worth ₹77.32 crore to Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, proposing the development of tent cities at key Buddhist heritage sites across the state.

The proposed sites, located in Guntur, Visakhapatnam, and Srikakulam districts, are expected to benefit from improved tourism infrastructure and increased footfall. As part of a broader initiative to showcase Andhra Pradesh’s cultural richness, the state also plans to establish 14 Experience Centres. The first phase will cover Kondapalli, Kuchipudi village, Mangalagiri, Cheerala, Bapatla, and Araku Valley, focusing on promoting local arts, crafts, and traditions.

In the past year, the state has attracted tourism investments worth ₹10,644 crore, with the potential to generate over 8,000 jobs. Currently, 88 tourism projects totaling ₹698 crore are underway, underlining the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, creating employment, and preserving its cultural and historical legacy.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.