Agency areas in AP enhance tourist experience with new attractions

Visakhapatnam: Tourists visiting the picturesque agency areas of Alluri Sitharama Raju district this winter can look forward to an enhanced experience with new attractions introduced by the district administration, the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) Paderu, and the Tourism Department.

A newly constructed 435-meter wooden walkway now weaves through serene coffee plantations near Sunkarmetta junction, between Anantapur and Araku, offering visitors a unique perspective of the landscape. The attraction is open to tourists for a nominal entry fee ranging from Rs 20 to Rs 50.

Adventure enthusiasts can now enjoy two thrilling additions to the valley's offerings: paramotor rides along the Araku-Jeypore Road and tethered hot air balloon rides at Padmapuram Gardens. Both activities have completed trial runs, with the hot air balloon rides already drawing significant interest from tourists.

The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) continues to operate its popular skylining facility at Ananthagiri, which has seen strong visitor interest. Additionally, the ITDA has initiated improvements at Kothapalli Waterfalls near Chintapalli, the region’s second most visited waterfall after Chaparai.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, ITDA Project Officer V. Abhishek detailed ongoing developments: "Following our successful enhancement of Chaparai Waterfalls last year, we’re now focusing on Kothapalli Waterfalls. The project includes new road construction, expanded parking facilities, changing rooms, and illuminated concrete pathways. These improvements should be completed within 15-20 days."

Environmental conservation remains a priority, particularly at Vanjangi Hill, where new toilet facilities are being installed and road repairs have been completed. The area, located within a reserve forest, maintains a strict plastic ban. Abhishek highlighted last year's cleanup effort at Vanjangi, where 38 workers collected 14 truckloads of plastic waste over ten days.

The ITDA is also making improvements at the famous Borra Caves under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, incorporating eco-friendly facilities such as tented changing rooms and washrooms. To combat plastic pollution, local hotels have been urged to sell larger water bottles and use sustainable alternatives like leaf plates and cups.

Tourist numbers have shown significant growth, with Borra Caves alone attracting approximately 7,000 visitors on recent weekends, marking a substantial increase from previous years.