Vizag to Host 41st IATO Convention, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Set for Major Boost UPDATED

Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh is set to strengthen its position as a leading global destination for tourism as Visakhapatnam prepares to host the 41st National Annual Convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) from September 10 to 12. Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Cinematography Kandula Durgesh said the event would provide a major platform for showcasing Andhra Pradesh’s tourism potential while connecting local businesses and tourism stakeholders with operators from across the country.

The Minister said the State Government, led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM K. Pawan Kalyan, was committed to strengthening the tourism ecosystem and providing better opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

IATO, which represents over 2,000 inbound tourism operators, has chosen Andhra Pradesh to host its annual convention, marking an important opportunity for the State to showcase its diverse tourism offerings, including coastal, spiritual, eco-tourism and cultural destinations.

The three-day convention is expected to bring together over 1,000 top inbound tour operators, aviation executives and hotel chains. Minister Durgesh said the Tourism Department has constituted a Marketing Committee to prepare a comprehensive strategy for promoting State’s tourism destinations nationally and internationally. Officials have been directed to develop innovative campaigns and district-level road-shows to highlight the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

The State is also planning special celebrations for World Tourism Day on September 27, with preparations underway to unveil a detailed tourism development programme. The Government is working on an extensive branding and marketing master plan, including the development of modern tent cities along riverbanks.

The proposed initiatives will also include digital storytelling campaigns highlighting the sanctity of the Godavari, further strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s image as a diverse and attractive tourism destination.