The chilly weather, coupled with an extended weekend due to Christmas, has turned tourist hotspots in and around Visakhapatnam into bustling hubs of activity, defying the impact of the new COVID-19 variant JN.1 in the region.

Hotels, including those managed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), are reporting full bookings, with the Agency areas reaching 100% occupancy until the New Year.

M. Patrudu, an official from APTDC Araku division, revealed that all 178 rooms, ranging from non-AC/AC single/double-bed rooms to suites and cottages, have been reserved until the New Year.

Private hotels in Araku valley are capitalizing on the surge in demand, charging triple the regular rates, with some quoting prices between ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 for a double-bed room on New Year's Eve.

The strategic efforts of APTDC and the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA-Paderu) in enhancing tourism infrastructure, including new viewpoints, additional tourist spots, and modernized facilities, are proving successful.

The newly introduced zip-liner facility near Borra Caves and the development of waterfalls such as Chaparai and Kothapalli are attracting numerous visitors. The creation of view points at Madagada and Chervuluvenam, along with the scenic 'Meghala Kondalu' in Paderu mandal, is drawing large crowds, especially during sunrise.

Tourist demand has surged for the tents set up at Vanjangi grama panchayat, with owners offering attractive amenities like bike rentals and campfires. City hotspots, including Kailasagiri, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP), Tenneti Park, and Kurusura Submarine Museum, are witnessing a sharp rise in footfall.

Tour packages ranging from one to three days, covering various destinations in Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, and Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) districts, are being offered by APTDC and private travel agencies.

The Vistadome coaches of the Visakhapatnam–Araku train are fully booked until Sankranti, according to sources from the Waltair Division in Visakhapatnam. The allure of Vizag's attractions combined with the festive spirit has transformed the region into a vibrant haven for holidaymakers.

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