World Tourism Day celebrations at RK Beach, Visakhapatnam

VISAKHAPATNAM: The state-wide World Tourism Day -2017 is celebrating at RK Beach, Vizag on September 27. 6 days event Dasaravali will be held at RK Beach.This festival will continue from September 27th to till October 2nd.
Cultural programmes showcasing orchestra, dances from Uttarandhra, Odisha and Sambalpur, magic show, folk theatre would be held from 4 pm onwards.
Food courts would be set up at R K Beach while the night bazar at Shilparamam would commence on September 27.  

 

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Indian Photography Festival (IPF) Hyderabad-2017

The Indian Photography Festival (IPF), which will started on September 8 in Hyderabad, Madhapur, the festival spreads its wings wider this time with 525 photographers from 40 countries.
Pitched as a non-profit initiative by the Light Craft Foundation in association with Telangana Tourism, the fest brings together images across a spectrum of genres, from portraits to landscape, abstracts to news photographs. The photo fest is built in collaboration with photo agencies across the globe to facilitate cultural exchange. “This helps our photographers, particularly from Hyderabad, to showcase their work abroad. Earlier this year a few photographers exhibited their work in Georgia, last year we took the work to Auckland and Sydney and we are in talks to showcase in Slovenia in addition to China,” says Aquin Mathews, festival director.

Key exhibitions
Before it’s too late by Mathieu Willcocks (UK)
Landscape by Cecilia Paredes (Peru)
Philippines Drug Wars by Kate Geraghty (Australia)
Celebrity portraits by the photographers from Sydney Morning Herald
The Rescue by Francesco Giusti (Italy)
The Hungry Tide by Swastik Pal (India)
Empathy by Sudharak Olwe (India)
Head On Photo Festival (Australia)
Water by Hikari Creative — IPF Portrait Prize (India)
Venues: State Gallery of Art, The Gallery café, Srishti Art Gallery, Inorbit Mall, Goethe Zentrum, IIT Hyderabad, Saamanya Shastram, Shilparamam, Chowmahalla Palace, Lamakaan and Deja Brew Art Café.
IPF opens on September 21, 5pm, at State Gallery of Art, Kavuri Hills, Madhapur, and will continue till October 8. For a detailed schedule and to register for workshops, look up www.indianphotofest.com

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World’s tallest giant wheel soon in Andhra Pradesh's Amaravati

AMARAVATI: Euro Destination India (UDI) has come forward to set up the world’s tallest  Giant Wheel at an estimated cost of `440 crore in the capital city of Amaravati of Andhra Pradesh. The UDI will set up the giant wheel. While Italy-based Fabbri Group will extend the necessary technological support for setting up the Ferris Wheel, Turkey-based Polin Water Park will be the partners in developing the surroundings of the giant wheel as a tourist attraction as part of Amaravati Tourism.

UDI managing director M Krishna Rao and Fabbri Group president Gianluca gave a presentation to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, which will be developed in three phases.Currently the 167.6 m (550-foot) Ferris Wheel in Las Vegas of US is the world’s tallest giant wheel.

The Chief Minister named for the giant wheel as ‘Amaravati Buddha Chakra’.

Image source: Pinterest

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India's first Hyperloop in Andhra Pradesh to connect Amravati and Vijaywada

AMARAVATI:
An hour-long journey between Vijayawada and Amaravati, could well become a Five minute affair thanks to the agreement signed by Andhra Pradesh government with Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT). Under the agreement, HTT will develop a Hyperloop transportation route between the cities of Amaravati and Vijaywada, reducing the one-hour trip to as little as just Five minutes, if successful. The agreement will employ a public private partnership model funded primarily from private sources to fund its construction.

The Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (AP-EDB) and the US-based Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT) signed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Amaravati. The MoU was signed by HTT chairman and co-founder Bibop Gresta and AP-EDB CEO J Krishna Kishore. While an official release on the MoU did not disclose the probable cost of the project, Krishna Kishore told ET that the project will involve little over $200 Mn of investment and take a year or so to complete it once all the approvals and Right of Way were in place.

If all goes well, this could be the first Hyperloop project to be implemented in India. HTT says it expects to generate 2,500 jobs during the project. The two-phase plan includes first conducting a feasibility study beginning in October, which is expected to last around six months. In phase 2, the actual construction of the Hyperloop  will begin.

Hyperloop-India

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INS Kursura Submarine Museum – Vizag

The INS Kursura (S20) is one of the most unique attractions in Visakhapatnam (Vizag), Andhra Pradesh. Once a powerful submarine of the Indian Navy, INS Kursura has now been converted into a submarine museum, giving visitors a chance to step inside a real submarine and experience naval history up close.

Commissioned in 1969, INS Kursura served the Indian Navy for over 31 years before being decommissioned in 2001. After retirement, it was preserved on the Ramakrishna Beach (RK Beach) in Vizag and turned into a museum — the first submarine museum in South Asia. 

 

Highlights of INS Kursura

• A real submarine that participated in important naval operations.

• Offers insight into the life of submariners and how they worked under the sea.

• Exhibits include navigation equipment, communication systems, and weapon controls used by the Navy.

• Managed and maintained by former Navy personnel, who share fascinating stories and facts.

Timings of INS Kursura Submarine Museum

• Opening Hours: 2:00 PM – 8:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)

• Closed: Mondays and Public Holidays

• Best Time to Visit: Evening hours, when the beach area comes alive with lights and cool sea breeze.

⏳ Note: Timings may change on special occasions or for maintenance.

Entry Fee

• Adults: ₹40 – ₹60 (approx.)

• Children: ₹20 – ₹30 (approx.)

• Camera/Video charges may apply separately.

Why Visit?

Visiting INS Kursura is not just about seeing a submarine; it is about experiencing the courage and discipline of the Indian Navy. The museum highlights the challenges faced by submariners and India’s naval strength.

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Heli tourism in Andhra Pradesh (Vijayawada, Tirupati , Vizag )

Heli Tourism in Andhra Pradesh: Soaring Above the State's Hidden Wonders

Imagine drifting over the deep gorges of the Grand Canyon of India, hovering above ancient temples untouched by time, and landing in the lush, coffee plantations of a serene valley—all in a single day. This isn't a dream; it's the thrilling reality of heli tourism in Andhra Pradesh.

The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has launched innovative helicopter services, transforming how travelers experience the state's diverse landscapes. It’s more than just travel; it's an exclusive, bird's-eye view of heritage, nature, and adventure. Ready for the ride of a lifetime? Let's explore.                          

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour in Andhra Pradesh?

• Save Precious Time: Cover vast distances in minutes, not hours. Visit Araku Valley, Borra Caves, and Vizag in a single day without exhausting road trips.

• Unbeatable Aerial Perspectives: Witness the breathtaking scale of Gandikota Canyon or the intricate coastline of Vizag from an angle few ever get to see.

• Luxury and Exclusivity: Helicopter tours offer a premium, intimate travel experience, perfect for special occasions, corporate retreats, or the discerning traveler.

• Access Remote Locations: Reach pristine and less-accessible destinations effortlessly, making your itinerary truly unique.

Top Heli Tourism Packages in Andhra Pradesh

Here are some of the most popular and spectacular helicopter tours you can book:

1. Visakhapatnam (Vizag) to Araku Valley & Borra Caves

This is the flagship heli-tourism route and an absolute must-do.

• The Experience: Take off from Vizag and fly over the Eastern Ghats, watching the landscape transform from urban coastline to rolling green hills. The helicopter lands at Araku, allowing you to explore the famous Araku Valley and its coffee museum. The tour often includes a flyover of the magnificent Borra Caves, a million-year-old limestone marvel.

• Highlights: Aerial views of the Bay of Bengal, lush valleys, and the ancient caves.

2. The Gandikota Grand Canyon Tour

For the adventure seeker and landscape photographer, this is unparalleled.

• The Experience: Fly towards the Pennar River canyon, famously known as the "Grand Canyon of India." From above, the sheer scale and vibrant hues of the gorge are mesmerizing. The tour typically includes a landing, allowing you to walk along the canyon's edge and visit the historic Gandikota Fort.

• Highlights: Breathtaking views of the canyon, Pennar River snaking through the rocks, and the 13th-century fort.

3. Spiritual & Heritage Circuit (Tirupati to Lepakshi)

Combine divine blessings with aerial grandeur.

• The Experience: Begin in the spiritual capital, Tirupati, and soar over the Tirumala hills for a unique view of the sacred temple. The helicopter then flies to Lepakshi, home to a magnificent Vijayanagara-era temple complex famous for its hanging pillar and intricate sculptures.

• Highlights: A unique perspective of Tirumala, seamless travel between two major heritage sites.

4. Coastal Beauty Tour (Kakinada to Konaseema)

Explore the serene backwaters and lush landscapes of coastal Andhra.

• The Experience: Discover the "God's Own Creation" of Andhra—the Konaseema region. Fly over a network of waterways, coconut groves, and picturesque villages that resemble Kerala's backwaters. The tour offers a tranquil and visually stunning experience.

• Highlights: Aerial views of the Godavari delta, lush green fields, and peaceful waterways.

Practical Information: Booking Your Heli Tour

How to Book a Helicopter Tour

Bookings are primarily handled by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC).

• Website: Visit the official APTDC website (aptdc.gov.in) for the most current packages and pricing.

• Heli Tourism Counters: You can book directly at the APTDC counters in Vizag, Tirupati, and Vijayawada.

• Authorized Agents: Several registered tour operators are also authorized to make bookings.

Approximate Cost

Prices vary based on the route, duration, and type of charter (shared or private). Generally, per-person costs for a shared tour can range from ₹ 4,000 to ₹ 10,000. Private charters will be significantly higher. Always check the official website for the latest tariffs.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Advance Booking: These tours are highly popular and have limited seats. Book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays.

• Weather Dependency: Helicopter flights are subject to weather conditions. Flights may be delayed or rescheduled due to poor visibility or rain.

• Weight Restrictions: There are strict weight limitations for safety reasons. Confirm these details at the time of booking.

• Identification: Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Passport, Aadhar Card, Voter ID) for verification before boarding.

FAQs About Heli Tourism in Andhra Pradesh

Q1: Are helicopter tours in Andhra Pradesh safe?
A: Absolutely. APTDC operates these tours with reputable aviation partners, adhering to all DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) safety norms. The aircraft are well-maintained and flown by experienced pilots.

Q2: What is the best time of year for a helicopter tour?
A: The ideal time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, with clear skies offering the best visibility for aerial photography.

Q3: Can children and senior citizens go on these tours?
A: Yes, these tours are generally suitable for all age groups. However, it's advisable to consult with a doctor if anyone has serious health conditions or a fear of heights.

Q4: How long is a typical helicopter tour?
A: Most tours are designed as day trips. The actual flight time can range from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on the route, with additional time for ground exploration.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Travel Experience

Heli tourism is not just a mode of transport; it's the centerpiece of an unforgettable adventure. It allows you to witness the stunning diversity of Andhra Pradesh—from its majestic canyons and serene valleys to its timeless temples and vast coastlines—in a way that is both luxurious and exhilarating.

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Bhavani Island Vijayawada | Andhra Pradesh’s Upcoming River Tourism Destination

Bhavani Island – A Perfect Blend of Nature, Adventure, and Relaxation.

Nestled in the middle of the serene Krishna River, Bhavani Island in Vijayawada is one of the largest river islands in India, spread across nearly 130 acres. Known for its lush greenery, scenic views, and adventure activities, the island has become a must-visit destination for families, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers visiting Andhra Pradesh.

 

 How to Reach Bhavani Island

• By Road: Vijayawada is well-connected by road, and the island is just a few kilometers away from the city center.

• By Boat: Visitors can reach the island via boat rides operated by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) from Bhavani Ghat near the city.

• The short ferry ride itself is a scenic experience, offering breathtaking views of the Krishna River.

Top Attractions and Activities

1. Adventure Sports

   • Jet skiing, zorbing, and speed boating are popular water activities.

   • Rope courses, ATV rides, and climbing walls are available for adventure enthusiasts.

2. Leisure and Nature Walks

   • Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens surrounded by tall trees.

   • Relax in peaceful spots ideal for family picnics or photography.

3. Kids-Friendly Zone

   • Play zones and safe adventure games make it a great spot for children.

4. Stay Options

   • APTDC offers cottages, tree houses, and luxury resorts right on the island.

   • Overnight stays allow you to experience the island’s tranquility after sunset.

Adventure Sports Explore more on : Amaravati Boating Club

Why Visit Bhavani Island?

• Escape the busy city life with a calm natural retreat.

• Perfect for weekend getaways, family outings, and romantic trips.

• A unique blend of spiritual aura, since the island is named after Goddess Kanaka Durga (Bhavani), whose temple is nearby in Vijayawada.

Nearby Attractions

•  Amaravati Stupa – A significant Buddhist heritage site.

•  Krishna Riverfront – Scenic ghats and boat rides.

•  Undavalli Caves – Rock-cut marvels near Vijayawada.

•  Prakasam Barrage – Just a short drive away, beautifully lit up in the evenings. 

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: October to March when the weather is pleasant.

• Carry light clothing and sunscreen for daytime activities.

• Pre-book cottages or resorts during weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute rush.

 

 

                                                    

Major Development Plans at Bhavani Island

1. Ropeway Connectivity

A state-of-the-art ropeway connecting the mainland (Punnami Ghat) to Bhavani Island is planned under a PPP model at a cost of ₹12.2 crore. This scenic aerial link will reduce ferry dependency and offer panoramic river views — a first for inland tourism in Andhra Pradesh.

2. Floating Restaurants & Houseboats

Plans are underway to introduce floating restaurants and luxury houseboats on the Krishna River, inspired by Kerala’s backwater experience. This will boost leisure tourism, offering travelers fine dining, sunset cruises, and night stays on the water. 

3. Adventure & Water Sports Upgrades

The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) is enhancing Bhavani Island’s adventure offerings. Expect jet skiing, banana rides, kayaking, ziplining, and other water-based thrills with new, modern equipment.

4. Theme-Based Master Plan

Architects from CBT and Studio PoD designed a sustainable master plan featuring:

• An Art & Handicraft Village

• Botanical Gardens and Bird Sanctuaries

• Open-Air Amphitheatre and Maze Garden

• Eco-lodges and river-view cottages

Only 10% of the island will be developed, keeping 90% of the area as green cover, ensuring harmony between tourism and nature.

5. Integrated Circuit Tourism

Bhavani Island is a key part of NTR District’s Circuit Tourism Route, which includes:

• Gandhi Hill

• Kondapalli Fort

• Bapu Museum

• Bhavani Island

This will help tourists explore culture, history, and recreation in a single itinerary.

6. Tourism Goals & Economic Growth

With an investment of ₹167 crore, Andhra Pradesh aims to increase Bhavani Island’s annual revenue from ₹3 crore to ₹5 crore, creating jobs and positioning Vijayawada as a top-tier tourism hub.

Eco-Friendly Focus

All new projects emphasize sustainability:

• Solar energy integration

• Plastic-free tourism

• Green mobility (electric carts)

• Waste management and recycling programs

The approach aims to balance development with environmental care, aligning with India’s green tourism vision.

Visitor Experience

Visitors can already enjoy:

• Riverside cottages and treehouses

• Picnic lawns and play areas

• Boating, kayaking, and water sports

• Cafes, local craft stores, and cultural shows

The ferry from Punnami Ghat offers a 10-minute scenic ride to the island, managed by APTDC. 

FAQ Section

1. Where is Bhavani Island located?

Bhavani Island is situated in the Krishna River, about 4 km from Vijayawada city, in Andhra Pradesh. It’s easily accessible by ferry from Punnami Ghat.

2. What are the new attractions being developed?

The major attractions include a ropeway, floating restaurants, houseboats, adventure sports, eco-resorts, and a handicraft village.

3. How can visitors reach Bhavani Island?

Regular ferry services operate from Punnami Ghat (Vijayawada). The ropeway will soon offer a faster, more scenic route once operational.

4. Is Bhavani Island open throughout the year?

Yes, but it’s best visited between October and June. During monsoon, high river flows may temporarily restrict access.

5. What are the eco-tourism initiatives?

Bhavani Island is adopting solar power, waste recycling, and plastic-free policies to promote sustainable tourism. 

People Also Ask (PAA) Section

What is special about Bhavani Island Vijayawada?

Bhavani Island stands out as one of India’s largest river islands, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and eco-tourism. Its new development plans will make it a world-class riverfront destination in South India. 

Is there a ropeway to Bhavani Island?

A ropeway project connecting Vijayawada’s mainland to Bhavani Island has been approved. Once completed, it will offer a stunning 10-minute aerial ride across the Krishna River, enhancing access and tourism appeal. 

What activities are available at Bhavani Island?

Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, banana rides, jet-skiing, rope courses, picnics, and cultural events. Upcoming additions include floating restaurants, camping zones, and art villages. 

What are the upcoming projects under Andhra Pradesh Tourism?

The state is focusing on ropeways, floating houses, heritage circuits, and eco-lodges across destinations like Bhavani Island, Araku Valley, and Gandikota, aiming for sustainable tourism growth. 

How to reach Bhavani Island from Vijayawada city?

From the city center, take a short drive to Punnami Ghat (around 10 minutes). From there, APTDC ferries operate at regular intervals, taking visitors across the Krishna River to the island.

Conclusion

Bhavani Island is rising as a symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s tourism revival, combining nature, culture, and innovation. With projects like the ropeway, floating restaurants, and eco-resorts, it promises to be a landmark river island destination that blends modern leisure with natural charm — redefining tourism along the Krishna River.

Have you visited Bhavani Island?
Share your experience or questions below — your comment may get featured in our next post!

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India’s First Solar-Powered Boat Aditya in Kerala – A Green Voyage

Kerala, known as God’s Own Country, made history by launching India’s first solar-powered ferry, Aditya, in the scenic backwaters of Alappuzha. This eco-friendly innovation showcases India’s commitment to sustainable travel and clean energy solutions.

🌟 Key Features of Aditya

• 100% Solar-Powered: Runs entirely on solar panels, reducing dependency on diesel.

• Eco-Friendly Transport: Zero fuel emissions, making it safe for Kerala’s fragile backwater ecosystem.

• Cost-Effective: Saves thousands of liters of diesel annually, cutting down operational costs.

• Passenger Capacity: Can carry 75 passengers per trip, ensuring smooth and silent rides.

• Award-Winning: Recognized with the prestigious Gussies Electric Boat Award in 2020.

📍 Why Aditya Matters

Aditya is more than just a boat—it’s a model for sustainable tourism and green transport in India. Operating between Vaikom and Thavanakkadavu, it benefits daily commuters and attracts eco-conscious travelers exploring Kerala’s backwaters.

FAQs on Solar Boat Aditya

Q1. Where does Aditya operate?
It runs in Kerala’s Alappuzha backwaters, connecting Vaikom and Thavanakkadavu.

Q2. How many passengers can Aditya carry?
The boat can carry up to 75 passengers at a time.

Q3. Why is Aditya unique?
It is India’s first fully solar-powered passenger ferry, offering clean, cost-effective, and eco-friendly rides.

✨ With Aditya, Kerala proves that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, making it a proud symbol of India’s green future.  

Hope soon will expect Andhra pradesh tourism to launch solar ferry boat at river banks of Krishna, will boost amaravti tourism.

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BUS CUM BOAT by ANDHRA PRADESH TOURISM in KRISHNA RIVER, VIJAYAWADA

The long-awaited amphibious vehicle, launched by Andhra Pradesh Tourism. Imagine the fun of a ride in an amphibious bus, a vehicle that becomes a means of transport on land as well as on (or under) water.

The bus-cum-boat will float in the Krishna river initially for a joy ride. “But in the days to come, it’ll take people from the Punnami ghat to Pavithra Sanghamam via several popular stopovers en route.

The plan is to provide tourists a new view to the exotic locales in and around Vijayawada in the vehicle which moves smoothly from wide open spaces to an aquatic wonder land.

Tour Details:

The tour will start in a clockwise direction from the Berm Park,in Bhavanipuram. The tourists will take a joy ride in the Krishna and transit on to land in the same bus to Lotus hotel before taking in the grand and historic sights of Undavalli Caves, the Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple, A.P. Secretariat, Uddandarayapalem and Sri Shiva Kshetra.

The boat will stop at the APTDC dock-II which will have amenities like a food court, a souvenir shop and a repair and maintenance shed. From here, the boat ride will continue in the Krishna on way to the Pavithra Sanghamam which will have similar amenities like a museum, a food court, a ticket counter, waiting lounge and souvenir shops. It will then reach Sri Durga Malleswara Swamivarla Devasthanam before returning to the starting point at Bhavanipuram.

An alternative route will begin from Pavithra Sangamam in an anti-clockwise direction, moving through the APTDC dock-II, followed by Shiva Kshetram, Uddandarayapalem, A.P. Secretariat, Sri Panankala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and Undavalli Caves with a stop at the Lotus hotel and APTDC dock before proceeding to the Durga temple.

To begin with, the Tourism wing may launch six such vehicles. “The CRDA has asked for two amphibious buses to cater to the transport needs of the Secretariat staff. Each vehicle has a seating capacity for 16 people,”.

courtesy: http://www.thehindu.com

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Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) makes history with successful PSLV C-37

Indian Space Research Organisation  (Isro) to launch a record 104 satellites including Cartosat-2 in a single mission today(February 15) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The satellites, to be launched at 9.28 am, will be the highest number to be launched in a single mission. While the Isro’s current record stands at 20 satellites in 2016, Russia achieved global distinction in this regard by launching 37 in 2014.

Of the 104 spacecraft, three are Indian satellites of the Cartosat-2 series. The others are nanosatellites from Israel, Kazakhstan, Netherlands, Switzerland and the USA.

Cartosat-2 series satellites – equipped with panchromatic and multispectral image sensors – are earth observation spacecraft that provide remote sensing services. Data captured by these satellites can be used to monitor road networks, map land use and effect proper water distribution.

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