The Andhra Pradesh–ADTOI National Tourism Mart (APTM 2026) successfully concluded this week, marking a historic shift in the state’s tourism trajectory. Organized by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority (APTA) and the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), the three-day event brought together over 600 national delegates to witness the unveiling of an ambitious roadmap designed to transform Andhra Pradesh into a global tourism powerhouse.

A Vision Powered by Investment and Innovation

Inaugurated by Shri Kandula Durgesh, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Cinematography, the mart served as a platform to announce that Andhra Pradesh has secured ₹20,088 crore in investments across 117 projects in the last 18 months. These developments are projected to create over 1.22 lakh jobs and significantly expand the state’s luxury and mid-scale room inventory.

“Our tour operators are the true brand ambassadors of Andhra Pradesh,” stated Minister Durgesh during his keynote address. “Under our new Tourism Policy 2024–2029, we have granted Industry Status to the sector, offering unprecedented incentives like SGST reimbursements and single-window clearances to ensure ‘Speed of Doing Business’.”

Strategic Focus: The Seven Anchor Hubs

The mart featured seven thematic panel discussions anchored around the state’s core strengths:

• Heritage & Spirituality: Highlighting the Buddhist Circuit and the sacred trails of Tirupati and Srisailam.
• Adventure & Nature: Showcasing the “Grand Canyon of India” at Gandikota and the pristine eco-zones of the Eastern Ghats.
• Modern Experiences: Unveiling new initiatives in Caravan Tourism, Seaplane services, and Floating Hospitality (including luxury houseboats at Bhavani Island).

Araku Valley FAM Tour: Experiencing the “Sunrise State”

The event reached its pinnacle with a grand Familiarization (FAM) Tour on February 15-16. Over 400 national tour operators embarked on a curated journey to Araku Valley, traveling via the iconic Vistadome rail coach.

Delegates experienced a masterclass in experiential travel, including:

• A geological exploration of the million-year-old Borra Caves.
• Immersive Dhimsa dance performances at the Araku Tribal Museum.
• Site visits to the valley’s burgeoning Homestay network, which now features over 1,800 rooms onboarded to promote community-based tourism.