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| Image source:APTourism |
In a major boost to its rapidly growing tourism sector, Andhra Pradesh has been honored with the prestigious "Best Tourism Promotion State" Award at the Global Travel Market (GTM) Expo 2026 held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
The award recognizes Andhra Pradesh's remarkable achievements in tourism promotion, destination branding, infrastructure development, and innovative tourism campaigns that have significantly elevated the state's profile among domestic and international travelers.
The prestigious honor was received by Tourism Minister Shri Kandula Durgesh during the three-day Global Travel Market 2026 event held from June 3 to June 5 at The Leela Raviz Kovalam, Kerala.
Andhra Pradesh Emerges as India's Fastest-Growing Tourism Destination
The recognition comes at a time when Andhra Pradesh is witnessing unprecedented growth in visitor arrivals and tourism investments.
According to Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, the state recorded an impressive 36.42 crore tourist visits during 2025-26, making it one of India's leading tourism destinations.
Even more significantly, Andhra Pradesh reported a 48% increase in international tourist arrivals, highlighting its growing appeal among global travelers.
Industry experts attribute this success to aggressive destination marketing, improved tourism infrastructure, and strategic policy reforms introduced by the state government.
Award Presented Before Global Tourism Leaders
The Metro Expedition–GTM Tourism Award 2026 was presented in the presence of tourism industry leaders, international delegates, policymakers, and travel professionals from across India and abroad.
The award was formally handed over by:
Kerala Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunath
MLA Muralidharan
Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh
The recognition reflects Andhra Pradesh's growing influence in India's tourism landscape and its emergence as a preferred destination for spiritual, heritage, eco-tourism, beach tourism, and adventure travel.
GTM 2027 to Be Hosted by Andhra Pradesh
In another significant announcement, organizers revealed that the next edition of the Global Travel Market Expo will be hosted by Andhra Pradesh.
GTM 2027 Venue Confirmed
The Global Travel Market 2027 is scheduled to take place in Andhra Pradesh on September 27, 2027, coinciding with World Tourism Day celebrations.
Hosting one of India's premier tourism expos is expected to further strengthen Andhra Pradesh's position as a major tourism and investment hub.
Tourism stakeholders believe the event will attract travel operators, hospitality investors, international buyers, tourism boards, and media representatives from around the world.
Tourism Policy 2024-29 Driving Growth
A major factor behind Andhra Pradesh's tourism success has been the implementation of the state's ambitious Tourism Policy 2024-29.
The policy introduced several investor-friendly reforms, including:
Granting industry status to tourism
Encouraging private sector investments
Developing world-class tourism infrastructure
Promoting heritage and eco-tourism destinations
Strengthening destination branding campaigns
Enhancing hospitality and tourism services
These initiatives have helped attract new investments while improving the overall visitor experience.
Andhra Pradesh's Diverse Tourism Attractions
The state offers a unique blend of spiritual, historical, cultural, and natural attractions that continue to draw millions of visitors every year.
Popular destinations include:
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams
Araku Valley
Borra Caves
Lepakshi Temple
Gandikota
Srisailam
These destinations have played a key role in boosting both domestic and international tourism.
Kandula Durgesh Dedicates Award to Tourism Stakeholders
During the award ceremony, Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh credited the achievement to the dedicated efforts of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department, tourism stakeholders, hospitality partners, and local communities.
He also acknowledged the leadership and vision of:
N. Chandrababu Naidu
K. Pawan Kalyan
The minister stated that the government remains committed to making Andhra Pradesh one of India's top tourism destinations over the coming years.
Key Highlights
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Won | Best Tourism Promotion State |
| Event | Global Travel Market (GTM) Expo 2026 |
| Venue | Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala |
| Award Recipient | Kandula Durgesh |
| Tourist Visits | 36.42 Crore (2025-26) |
| International Tourism Growth | 48% |
| Key Policy | Tourism Policy 2024-29 |
| Next GTM Venue | Andhra Pradesh |
| GTM 2027 Date | September 27, 2027 |
Conclusion
The "Best Tourism Promotion State" award marks a landmark achievement for Andhra Pradesh and reflects the state's growing reputation as one of India's most dynamic tourism destinations. With record-breaking tourist arrivals, rising international interest, investor-friendly policies, and the upcoming hosting of GTM 2027, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a powerhouse in India's tourism industry.
As new tourism projects, destination branding campaigns, and infrastructure developments continue to unfold, the state's tourism sector appears set for even greater growth in the years ahead.
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