Along with IATO, Andhra set to embark on next phase of growth 

Andhra Pradesh has invited the Indian travel trade to partner with the State in unlocking its enormous tourism potential and positioning it as one of India’s next major tourism growth destinations.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Culture & Cinematography, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Kandula Durgesh has extended the invitation while addressing IATO members and the media in New Delhi in connection with the 41st IATO Annual Convention, to be held at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach from 10th to 12th September 2026.

“I have not come merely to invite you to the convention. I have come to invite you to partner with Andhra Pradesh in building India’s next major tourism success story,” said the Minister.

Describing Andhra Pradesh as ‘A Destination Waiting to be Discovered‘, the Minister highlighted the State’s unique combination of spiritual, heritage, coastal, nature, adventure, tribal, culinary and cultural tourism. From Tirumala-Tirupati, Srisailam and Lepakshi to Gandikota, Araku, Rajahmundry and the Godavari, he said Andhra Pradesh offers experiences that can significantly enrich international tourism itineraries.

He called upon IATO members to develop and promote new tourism circuits and products covering pilgrimage, Buddhist tourism, coastal tourism, heritage, rural and tribal tourism, adventure, cruise and river tourism, MICE, weddings, cuisine, crafts and handlooms.

Highlighting the Godavari Pushkaralu 2027, he further said the once-in-twelve-years event offers a major opportunity to showcase Andhra Pradesh’s spiritual and cultural heritage to millions of visitors.

Speaking on the occasion, Ravi Gosain, President, IATO, said, “Andhra Pradesh has all the ingredients to become a major international tourism destination. Our objective through this convention is not only to showcase the State, but to enable our members to create new products and take Andhra Pradesh into the itineraries of overseas travellers.”

Sunil Mishra, Honorary Secretary, IATO, informed that the convention has already received over 350 registrations, with registrations continuing to come in. He said the strong response reflects the growing interest of the travel trade in Andhra Pradesh as an emerging tourism destination.