Published on
September 14, 2025
Andhra Pradesh took center stage at the Business Leisure Travel and MICE Exhibition (BLTM-2025), thanks to its strategic promotion of Gandikota, which was recognized as India’s Top Emerging Travel Destination. This accolade highlights the unique allure of Gandikota, often dubbed “India’s Grand Canyon,” with its stunning landscapes, historic fort, and rich cultural heritage. The award also reflects the state’s growing emphasis on sustainable tourism and its commitment to showcasing lesser-known destinations with immense potential. By focusing on responsible tourism practices, Andhra Pradesh has set the stage for Gandikota to attract not only adventure and nature enthusiasts but also eco-tourists and history lovers. The recognition at BLTM-2025 is a testament to the state’s vision of positioning Gandikota as a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers, putting Andhra Pradesh firmly on the global tourism map.
Gandikota, located in the Kadapa district, is a hidden gem known for its dramatic landscapes. The region features the beautiful Penna River winding through a vast gorge, accompanied by the imposing ruins of an ancient fort perched above. With its rugged terrain and panoramic views, Gandikota bears a striking resemblance to the Grand Canyon of the United States. While it remains relatively undiscovered compared to other major tourist spots, the site is rapidly gaining attention for its natural beauty, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere. This award validates the tourism department’s strategic efforts to highlight Gandikota as a major destination for both adventure seekers and history enthusiasts.
The BLTM-2025 exhibition, a key event in the global tourism industry, attracted over 500 exhibitors and 15,000 pre-qualified buyers, creating an excellent platform for Andhra Pradesh to showcase its diverse tourism potential. During the three-day event, the state’s tourism department presented an extensive array of attractions, ranging from heritage sites and sacred temples to pristine beaches and vibrant rural experiences. The department emphasized its commitment to eco-tourism, which is increasingly becoming a priority for modern travelers. This eco-friendly approach aligns with global trends towards sustainable tourism, as visitors are encouraged to enjoy the state’s natural beauty while minimizing their environmental impact.
One of the most significant aspects of Andhra Pradesh’s presentation at BLTM-2025 was the focus on developing world-class MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure in the state. By prioritizing MICE tourism, the Andhra Pradesh government aims to position the state as a leader in this segment. The development of state-of-the-art facilities in key destinations like Visakhapatnam, Gandikota, and Suryalanka Beach is part of a broader vision to attract international conferences, corporate events, and incentive programs. MICE tourism represents a growing sector in the global travel market, offering immense economic benefits by bringing high-spending business tourists to the region. The state’s efforts to build a robust MICE infrastructure will also create new employment opportunities in hospitality, transport, and related industries.
Visakhapatnam, known for its stunning beaches and scenic landscapes, is already a popular destination for both leisure and business tourists. With the introduction of advanced MICE facilities, the city is set to become an important hub for business travelers, attracting more international conferences and corporate events. Similarly, Gandikota is being positioned not only as a leisure destination but also as a prime location for business tourism. Its historical significance, paired with its natural allure, makes it an ideal venue for a variety of tourism experiences, including both relaxation and business engagements. The combination of leisure and corporate tourism in these locations offers the potential for year-round visits, thus strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s appeal on a global scale.
Suryalanka Beach, another location earmarked for MICE development, is poised to become a key attraction for both beach tourism and corporate events. The state plans to develop the beach with modern infrastructure, which will cater to both leisure travelers looking for a tranquil retreat and business groups seeking a serene environment for meetings or incentive programs. The emphasis on eco-tourism at Suryalanka Beach reflects the broader trend of responsible travel, which prioritizes sustainability while delivering exceptional experiences to tourists.
The recognition of Gandikota at BLTM-2025 is not just a win for the destination itself but also for the tourism department’s vision of making Andhra Pradesh a major player in India’s tourism industry. The award underscores the state’s diverse appeal, ranging from rural and heritage tourism to eco-friendly and adventure-driven travel. With a strategic focus on MICE infrastructure and sustainable tourism, Andhra Pradesh is poised for continued growth in the global tourism market. The state’s efforts to promote lesser-known destinations, such as Gandikota, alongside more traditional attractions, demonstrate its commitment to offering a variety of unique travel experiences for all types of tourists.
Andhra Pradesh stole the spotlight at BLTM-2025 with Gandikota being recognized as India’s Top Emerging Travel Destination, thanks to its stunning landscapes, historical significance, and focus on sustainable tourism, positioning it as a must-visit location for eco-tourism and adventure seekers.
In conclusion, the success of Andhra Pradesh at the BLTM-2025 exhibition highlights the state’s growing prominence as a must-visit destination for both leisure and business travelers. With a diverse range of offerings, from historical landmarks to pristine beaches and world-class MICE facilities, Andhra Pradesh is well on its way to becoming one of India’s most sought-after tourism hubs. The future looks bright for the state as it continues to develop its infrastructure, promote sustainable practices, and draw global attention to its hidden treasures like Gandikota.
