SRIKAKULAM/VIZIANAGARAM
Major temples and tourist spots in Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts are likely to witness an increase in pilgrims and tourists in the near future, with the international airport at Bhogapuram, strategically located on the Visakhapatnam-Srikakulam highway (NH-16). Although the airport is situated in Vizianagaram district, it is just 40 km from the Srikakulam town and is scheduled to begin operations by June, 2026, as per the State government’s deadline.
Tourism officials, preparing to celebrate World Tourism Day on September 27, Saturday have highlighted the benefits air connectivity on the region’s tourism potential. According to Srikakulam tourism officer N. Narayana Rao, “The airport is going to be boon for the tourism sector in Srikakulam district, which is home to historical temples including the Mahashiva temple of Srimukhalingam, Vishnu’s temple at Srikurmam and the Arasavalli Sun God temple. The district also has wonderful beaches including one at Mogadalapadu, Kalingapatnam and others. Additionally, for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, the bird sanctuary at Telineelapuram is there and oldest Buddhist sites at Dantapuri, Salihundam. Mr. Narayana Rao adds that the availability of accommodation at decent hotels is always a top priority of tourists. “The construction of new hotels in Srikakulam and the route between Srikakulam and Bhogapuram is going to help the tourism sector,” he added.
Anticipating increased demand, entrepreneurs have begun investing in the hospitality sectory, with at least eight new hotels likely to come up along the Srikakulam-Bhogapuram stretch in the next couple of years.
Andhra Pradesh State Hotels Association president G. Srinivasa Rao who is also Managing Director of Hotel Maruthi G. Srinivasa Rao said that five new hotels would likely come up in and around Bhogapuram airport. “Many top hotel groups have already got approvals from the government for the establishment of new hotels near NH-16 between Visakhapatnam-Srikakulam. It is really a good sign for the growth of the hospitality and tourism sectors in the region,” said Mr. Srinivasa Rao while speaking to The Hindu. “Generally, hotels near to airports will have higher footfalls. Room occupancy will also be more than 75%. So, a lot of investment is expected in the hospitality sector near the new airport,” he added.
Speaking to The Hindu, Vizianagaram MP Kalisetti Appalanaidu said that the new airport would boost tourism and hospitality sector in the district. “The construction of new hotels and resorts will spur economic activity and create livelihood for locals. It will also ensure development of the transport sector within no time,” he added. Additionally, he said that Vizianagaram, which is known for its heritage structures, forts and temples would attract more visitors after the completion of the airport.
Published – September 26, 2025 08:03 pm IST
