Telangana to prepare master plans for eight key tourism zones

Telangana Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao on Monday directed officials to prepare comprehensive master plans for the development of eight key tourism regions in Telangana. The exercise is part of a broader plan to develop 27 identified special tourism zones across the State, with eight locations being taken up in the first phase.

At a review meeting held at Tourism Plaza in Hyderabad, the Minister met senior Tourism officials, consultants, architects and engineers to discuss strategies for transforming selected destinations into world-class tourism hubs. The first phase will focus on Vikarabad, the Somasila-Alampur circuit, Warangal-Ramappa, Nagarjunasagar, Yadadri-Pochampally, the Adilabad tribal cluster, Bhadrachalam and Kaleshwaram.

“Modern tourists seek experiences rather than merely sightseeing opportunities and we need to create destinations that leave a lasting impression on visitors,” he said while urging officials to integrate nature, heritage, spirituality, culture and adventure activities to encourage longer stays and deeper engagement with local communities and traditions.

The Minister also directed officials to study successful tourism models from across the world and adapt suitable practices for Telangana. Referring to Kerala’s Jatayu Earth Centre as an example, he suggested developing iconic attractions and experiences such as landmark structures, cantilever view decks, skywalks, adventure sports, cultural performances and nature-based tourism activities.

“The hill area around the Bhuvangiri fort is larger than the site occupied by the Jatayu project and it could be developed into a major heritage and adventure tourism destination,” Mr. Rao added.

While speaking about the Somasila-Alampur tourism circuit, the Minister said the region holds significant potential for cruise tourism, water sports, trekking trails, elevated viewpoints, eco-tourism and destination weddings. He suggested integrating attractions such as Jataprolu and the Madanagopala Swamy Temple with the Krishna backwaters to create a major tourism destination.