Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh has urged the Union Government to recognize Tirupati and Visakhapatnam as global tourism destinations, showcasing the state’s spiritual and coastal diversity.

Speaking at the National Conference of State Tourism Ministers chaired by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Udaipur, Durgesh highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to the National Tourism Mission and sought greater central assistance to position the state at the forefront of India’s tourism sector.

Representing Andhra Pradesh alongside Tourism MD Amrapali Kata, Durgesh said that the state aims to develop Visakhapatnam as a premier marine and coastal destination and Tirupati as a global center for spiritual and cultural tourism. “Andhra Pradesh has immense potential to become a world-class tourism hub. With the Centre’s support, we can elevate our standing globally,” he said.

The minister noted that since the formation of the NDA government, Andhra Pradesh has adopted a new Tourism Policy focused on investment-led growth. The state has attracted over ₹12,000 crore in tourism investments, with global hospitality brands such as Taj, ITC, Oberoi, Hilton, and Lemon Tree establishing 21 hotel and resort projects, creating over 18,000 jobs. Plans are also underway to set up 10,000 homestays across rural and tribal circuits.

He explained that under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, the state is implementing a P4 model to promote inclusive development. The government aims to increase tourism’s share in the state’s GVA from 4.6% to 8% by 2029 and generate five lakh new jobs. Durgesh announced that Visakhapatnam will house India’s first Oceanarium and Marine Experience Park, while Tirupati will host a ‘Spiritual Civilization Museum and Mythological Experience Park’ blending digital domes, craft pavilions, and wellness tourism.