Sun Nov 10 14:41:02 UTC 2024: ## Visakhapatnam Tourist Spots Overflow with Visitors During ‘Karthika Masam’ Celebrations

**VISAKHAPATNAM, November 10, 2024:** Tourist destinations across undivided Visakhapatnam witnessed a massive surge in visitors this weekend, fueled by the ongoing ‘Karthika Masam’ celebrations.

Beaches, parks, and scenic hilltop viewpoints alike were packed with locals and tourists alike, making it one of the busiest weekends of the season. R.K. Beach, Tenneti Park, Kailasagiri, and VMRDA Park were particularly crowded, while the Agency areas, especially Vanjangi, experienced a record-breaking influx of visitors.

The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) saw a remarkable 6,509 visitors, generating a revenue of ₹5.10 lakh on a single day. Families and friends enjoyed various activities, including ‘tambola’, ‘anthakshari’, and kabaddi, while picnickers snapped selfies against the beautiful backdrop.

The influx of tourists also led to traffic congestion on city roads, particularly the Beach Road stretch between Rushikonda and Naval Coastal Battery.

Vanjangi, known for its breathtaking sunrise views, welcomed approximately 3,500 visitors, according to officials from the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) Paderu. Many tourists arrived in the early hours to witness the sunrise, with some choosing to camp overnight in tented accommodations.

The popularity of tourist spots in Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district has also seen a marked increase in recent days. The drop in temperatures in the Agency area, with minimum temperatures ranging between 15°C and 18°C, is attributed to the surge in tourism. Popular destinations such as Chintapalli, Paderu, Minumuluru, and Vanjangi have been witnessing a steady influx of visitors.

Viewpoints at Lambasingi, Madagada near Araku Valley, and waterfalls at Kothapalli, Chaparai, and Katika have also been attracting large numbers of tourists. Chaparai, one of the most notable waterfalls in Dumbriguda mandal, registered 2,724 visitors on Sunday alone. The high demand for accommodation has led to a surge in bookings for tented accommodation in the valley.

Read More