From shores to sanctuaries: new tourism policy set to revamp Buddhism circuits, beaches in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh aims to become a top tourism destination with rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and strategic development plans.

With the advantage of being strategically positioned on the south-eastern coast of the country and endowed with a rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, historical sites, serene valleys and pilgrimage destinations to boot, Andhra Pradesh aims to become a leading tourism destination for both domestic and international travellers.

The new Tourism Policy (2024-29) formulated in alignment with Swarna Andhra Vision 2047, which envisions transforming Andhra Pradesh into a $2 trillion economy, has been identified as a cornerstone of this agenda.

The State ranks third in domestic tourism, attracting 278 million domestic visits annually, alongside 0.18 million foreign visitors. In response to the evolving tourism preferences, technological advancements and growing competition, officials at the helm of the department, chose to leverage the State’s distinctive assets to promote niche segments like eco-tourism, cruise tourism, beach circuits and backwater tourism, offering immersive experiences.

As anchor hubs play a key role in providing diverse tourism experiences including beach tourism, river cruises, spiritual tourism, wellness, heritage, adventure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), seven anchor hubs have been identified in Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, Araku Valley, Rajamahendravaram, Amaravati, Srisailam and Gandikota. These are proposed to be developed under a ‘hub-and-spoke’ model. Araku Valley and Tirupati have been prioritised for short to medium-term development, while the remaining five hubs are planned for long-term development.

Thematic circuits will dot the State’s tourism landscape in the days to come with the government planning to establish over 25 such circuits. They include two Buddhist circuits, 10 temple circuits, five beach circuits, four cruise circuits, three eco-tourism circuits, two sea cruise circuits and seaplane circuits.

The Buddhist circuits would be centred on Amaravati/Nagarjuna Konda and Visakhapatnam, connecting key Buddist landmarks to offer tourists an immersive journey through Buddha’s teachings and heritage. Prominent sites like Shalihundam, Thotlakonda, Bojjanakonda, Amaravati stupa, Undavalli caves and Nagarjuna Konda will serve as the main attractions, showcasing the historical and archaeological significance of Buddhism in the region. Collaborations with global Buddhist associations to host Buddhist conferences, festivals and other events include the plan.

The proposed 10 temple circuits would be developed around spiritual destinations of Simhachalam, Srisailam, Ahobilam, Annavaram, Tirupati, Kanipakam, Lepakshi, Vijayawada, Dwaraka Tirumala and Shakti Peetha.