Andhra Pradesh: Rayalaseema to become a tourism hub

AP government hopes that Rayalaseema can be developed as a tourism hub by showcasing the cultural richness of the Anantapur area. Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has already commenced operations. Peace Memorial Hall in the city of Anantapur stands as a testimony to the memories of World War II. After the Second World War, the British built a war memorial in the town. Also, Dharmavaram weaving sarees and Puttapatri pilgrimage town have put the district on the world map.

While coming to tourists spots, Gooty Fort, Rayadurga and Penukonda forts offer a rich history. The Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Temple at Kadiri and Sri Chintala Venkata Ramana Swamy Temple and the Sri Bugga Rama Lingeshwara Swamy Temple at Tadipatri are renowned for their architectural beauty. The Lepakshi Temple has historical significance.

Bhagwan Sathya Sai Baba Prasanthi Nilayam in Puttaparthi is an international tourist and religious destination. The 600-year-old botanical garden, recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records, is still a popular tourist attraction. The village of Veerapuram is home to hundreds of painted stocks where the forest department has created a favourable environment for seasonal visits of birds.

B Eswaraiah, Rayalaseema Tourism Development Officer, said that the action plan is in the process of developing the historical sites as tourist attraction sites. He said the state government has decided to develop Rayalaseema as a tourism hub.