The Andhra Pradesh state tourism department is gearing up to introduce caravan tourism in 15 picturesque locations, including Anjoda (a forest and park near Araku Valley), Dallapalli (a hill station near Paderu) in the Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district, and Bheemili (a beach locality) in Visakhapatnam.

Pani Srinivasa, the regional director of APTDC (Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation), highlighted the growing popularity of caravan tourism, an outdoor camping and road-tripping trend sweeping the country. He revealed plans to introduce caravan tourism in three locations within the Vizag region and is awaiting approval from the forest department to expedite the project. If all goes as planned, caravan tourism will make its debut in October.

The concept of hitting the road in forested areas with a hotel-on-wheels, complete with beds, washrooms, kitchenettes, air-conditioning, smart televisions, and music systems, holds undeniable appeal. To enhance visitor experiences, the tourism department is strategizing the establishment of caravan centers on half-acre plots at these locations.

APTDC, in collaboration with other stakeholders, will introduce caravan packages with fixed prices for travelers.

Additionally, the Tours and Travels Association of Andhra has committed an investment of ₹20 crore through its members to expand caravan tourism in various parts of Andhra Pradesh, including Vizag, Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, Tirupati, and other potential locations. Travel association officials believe that this unique mode of transportation will add excitement to tourism in the Vizag region and throughout Andhra Pradesh, attracting a diverse range of adventure-seeking tourists.