Visakhapatnam: As the Sankranti festivities gripped the city, the streets resonated with a vibrant fusion of cultures as people from various states came in and spread out. The resident Vizagites having left for their hometowns, their absence was made up with the incoming folks, who helped create a lively atmosphere.
Popular tourist destinations like Rushikonda, Kailasgiri, Bheemli Beach, Thotlakonda, and RK Beach witnessed a surge in footfalls and high action. The enthusiasm extended beyond the city limits, reaching districts like the Araku, Lambasingi and the Borra Caves in the ASR region.
Appala Naidu, the manager of Lambasingi, said a staggering 50,000 visitors, large numbers of them youths, turned up in the past three days.
The Bartwal family, hailing from Rajasthan, stated, "Our grandmother, originally a south Indian residing in Visakhapatnam, was the driving force behind our annual Pongal visits. Despite her absence, we continue to visit the fascinating hill stations of Vizag, the beautiful beaches and enjoy the local traditions for three days.”
“We savour the festive atmosphere, explore green rural areas like Anakapalli and Pithapuram and indulge in the delectable Pongal festival cuisine, particularly the sweets and Murkis."
Gowri Shankar, manager of Borra Caves, echoed similar sentiments. He said more than 25,000 people visited the caves in the three-day period. The accommodation facilities were fully occupied and the area experienced substantial traffic.
Srinivas Pani, regional director of APTDC, told Deccan Chronicles that Visakhapatnam experienced an exceptional influx of over 1 crore visitors in 2023. He highlighted the introduction of major attractions at tourist spots, such as the successful addition of zip lines in Borra Caves.
He disclosed ongoing plans for the trekking routes in the ASR districts and development projects in unexplored areas.
Caravan Tourism, a prevailing trend in Kerala, Maharashtra and Goa, is slated to be introduced in Andhra Pradesh. Other proposals encompass captivating laser shows. Adventure enthusiasts can look forward to zip lines and sky cycling at the Kailasgiri Hills.
Srinivas Pani said that with innovative initiatives on the horizon, Visakhapatnam's tourism landscape appears poised for an even more remarkable future.
