New Delhi: The future of tourism in Andhra Pradesh is shining bright, as the state makes a grand appeal to the Indian travel trade at the upcoming 41st Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) Convention. Set to take place from 10th to 13th September in Visakhapatnam, the event marks a crucial partnership between the Government of Andhra Pradesh and leading tourism professionals to unlock the region’s vast tourism potential.
During an interactive press event in New Delhi, the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Culture & Cinematography of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Kandula Durgesh, called upon IATO members and the industry at large to not only attend the convention but join hands with the state in creating its next major tourism growth story. Highlighting Andhra Pradesh as “a destination waiting to be discovered,” Shri Durgesh pointed to the state’s unique blend of spiritual, heritage, coastal, adventure, tribal, and cultural attractions.
“Andhra Pradesh offers experiences that can significantly enrich international tourism itineraries—from Tirumala-Tirupati to Gandikota, Araku, and the Godavari,” Shri Durgesh noted. He invited the travel fraternity to develop new tourism circuits across pilgrimage, Buddhist heritage, coastal lines, rural experiences, cuisine, crafts, and adventure. The forthcoming Godavari Pushkaralu 2027, a massive spiritual event, was singled out as a unique opportunity to showcase the state’s rich traditions to the world.
IATO President Mr. Ravi Gosain echoed the sentiment, stating, “Andhra Pradesh has all the ingredients to become a top international tourism destination. Our convention aims to showcase the state and enable creation of new products for global travelers.” With more than 350 registrations already confirmed, strong interest is brewing among travel operators eager to explore business opportunities and promote Andhra Pradesh on new platforms.
The convention, to be held at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, will feature sessions on technology, AI, sustainable tourism, and strategies for high-growth opportunities—alongside cultural evenings celebrating the arts of Andhra Pradesh. Senior IATO leaders stressed that industry-government collaboration is crucial to turn potential into tangible visitor numbers.
At a press meet hosted at the Taj Ambassador Hotel, IATO leaders and Andhra Pradesh officials reviewed ongoing tourism initiatives, such as homestay development and local employment generation. Minister Durgesh emphasized that no attractions or policies would be successful without full industry support, urging active participation from all stakeholders.
The 41st IATO Annual Convention and Travel Mart is poised to serve as a dynamic platform for forging future partnerships and taking Andhra Pradesh from a hidden gem to a globally sought-after destination. As IATO and the state jointly strategize, Andhra Pradesh is firmly positioning itself at the forefront of India’s emerging tourism growth stories.
