Andhra Pradesh was honoured, Global Tourism Award 2025, for its visionary initiatives in positioning itself as a promising tourist destination, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable tourism, and fostering economic and employment growth through the sector. Global Tourism Award recognises excellence in innovation, policy, and sustainability in the global travel and tourism industry.
Awarding Body: Global News Network
Key Highlights of Award
- Recognition of tourism policy leadership, guiding investors and destination development.
- Commendation for building eco-friendly infrastructure, including the state capital Amaravati.
- Efforts in Gandikota development as a major eco and adventure tourism destination.
- 103 MoUs signed over 15 months with reputed organizations to boost tourism investment.
- Promotion of India’s overall tourism growth through innovative and inclusive strategies.
Significance of Recognition
- Commends development of new tourism circuits.
- Promotes eco-friendly tourism and sustainable practices.
- Acknowledges digital outreach campaigns targeting global audiences.
- Highlights cultural initiatives, including festivals, handicrafts, and spiritual heritage.
- Reinforces confidence in Andhra Pradesh’s long-term tourism strategy and investor engagement.
Tourism Attractions of Andhra Pradesh
Spiritual Tourism:
- Tirupati Balaji Temple (one of the world’s richest religious institutions)
- Srisailam, Amaravati
Heritage Tourism:
- Lepakshi Temple
- Undavalli Caves
- Buddhist sites: Amaravathi, Thotlakonda
Coastal Tourism:
- Beaches at Visakhapatnam, Bheemunipatnam, Kakinada
Eco and Adventure Tourism:
- Araku Valley
- Lambasingi
- Papikondalu
Andhra Pradesh has India’s second-longest coastline (~970 km), providing vast potential for beach and marine tourism.
State Vision for Tourism
- Inclusive Development: Ensuring benefits for local communities.
- Infrastructure and Connectivity: Improved roads, transport, and tourist facilities.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encouraging private investment in tourism.
- Skill Development: Training programs in hospitality, guiding, and service sectors.
- Smart Tourism Technology: AI-based guides, digital ticketing, and VR experiences for tourists.
Policy and Economic Impact
- Employment generation in tourism, hospitality, and allied sectors.
- Boost to the state economy through tourism-related investments.
- Strengthened private sector participation through PPP and MoU initiatives.
- Enhances international visibility of Andhra Pradesh as a tourist hub.
Key Facts
- Longest Coastline in India: Gujarat (~1,600 km)
- Second-Longest Coastline in India: Andhra Pradesh (~970 km)
- Popular Heritage Site: Lepakshi temple – known for Vijayanagara-style architecture.
- Andhra Pradesh Major Pilgrimage: Tirupati Balaji – attracts millions of devotees annually.
- Famous Eco-Tourism Destinations: Araku Valley (coffee plantations), Lambasingi (coldest place in Andhra Pradesh).