Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu - Top tourist destinations of india

Andhra Pradesh topped the domestic tourist arrivals list, with over 150 million tourists, while Tamil Nadu attracted the maximum number of foreign tourists at over 2.3 million for the year 2009. Though Andhra Pradesh is the most popular destination for domestic tourists, it ranks 7th when it comes to foreign tourist visits.

Kerala is not even in the list of domesic tourist visits list and is 8th for foreign tourist visits. Karnataka is 4th for domesic tourist visits and not in the list for foreign tourist visits.

Most foreign visitors are from France followed by USA, Spain, China, Italy, UK, Turky, Germany, Malasia, Mexico.

Read the complete statistics here

An idol of Lord Buddha found in Hyderabad

A limestone idol of Lord Buddha, dating back to the 2nd century AD of the Satavahana dynasty, found by The department of archaeology and museums, Andhra Pradesh, at Chada village in Atmakur mandal of Nalgonda district. A limestone parasol, Buddhist sculptural panels and large sized bricks were also excavated from the sight apart from the Idol. For safe custody The findings have been shifted to the Ramannapet police station.

A release issued by the department stated that the three feet tall idol was found by villagers when they were working on the land at Chada, which is situated 40 km away from the famous Buddhist site, Phanigiri. Jayesh Ranjan, the principal secretary of tourism, Andhra pradesh, has directed officials to conduct small-scale excavations at the spot, to study the cultural potential of the site.

In the past, Buddhist traces were found at Vardhamanukota, Aravapalli, Tirumalagiri and Gazulabanda in Nalgonda district. The department is now planning to create a circuit of all these Buddhist sites in the district to facilitate tourism activity.

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is the largest state in South India and the 5th largest state in India. Andhra Pradesh comprises three regions - Telangana, Costal Andhra and Rayalaseema. Even though these regions are parts of the same state, are distinctly different in climate, dialect, lifestyle and cuisine. The state has about 1000 kms of coastline with serene beaches.

Most widely spoken languages here are Telugu, Hindi, Urdu and English. The best time of the year to visit is during the winter (November - February).

The excellent infrastructure of roads, rail, airports and ports makes Andhra Pradesh easily accessible from anywhere in India.

Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh is also a hot destination for travel and tourism. Located in the heart of Deccan Plateau, 1760 ft. above the sea level, Hyderabad has a very salubrious climate with hills, tanks, and forests. The city is studded with architectural monuments, museums, gardens and other hot spots. The landmark is the Charminar that lies right in the heart of Hyderabad. Other major attractions are the Falaknuma Palace, Golconda fort, Qutub Shahi tomb, Raymond's tomb and Ramoji Film City (The largest Film city).

Tirupati

Tirupati is surrounded by seven scenic hills, which have water falls, forests and beautiful views of valleys.

Sri Venkateswara Temple located at the seventh peak of the Tirupati Hills, is the major attraction of Tirupati. The Temple of Lord Venkateshwara, dated back to 9th century is one of the richest and widely visited temples around the world.

Other pilgrim spots nearby are Sri Govindarajaswami Temple, Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple, Sri Kapileshwaraswami Temple and Tiruchanur.

Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam, popularly known as Vizag is endowed with sparkling beaches, scenic landscape and a rich cultural heritage. The three majestic hills - The Kailasha Hill, the Yarada Hill and The Porlupalam Hill form an excellent backdrop and enhance the charm of this beautiful Port city. Visakhapatnam has many tourist spots in and around its boundaries.

Rajahmundry

Rajahmundry is situated on the left bank of the Godavari river in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Rajahmundry and its surrounding places are really a visual treat for the visitors. Asia's largest rail-cum-road bridge, across the Godavari river, is the major attraction here. The biggest attraction in Rajahmundry is the Godavari river. The three bridges over Godavari river are the most attractive and lengthy bridges in Andhra Pradesh. Important places in and around are Pattiseema, Kotilingalarevu Shiva Temple and Kadiyam nurseries.

For more info:

• Andhra Pradesh Portal
• Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation
• NIC, Andhra Pradesh