VIJAYAWADA: Unveiled by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu at the Tourism Tech AI 2.0 Conclave in Vijayawada on Friday, state-of-the-art caravans usher in a new chapter in travel and tourism in Andhra Pradesh.
In collaboration with Hyderabad Luxe Caravans, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) showcased two high-end caravans, a 10 or 12-seater, and a 6-seater at the conclave.
The luxurious vehicles drew widespread attention for their stylish design, and premium amenities. Each caravan is fully equipped with star hotel-grade features, including a bed, a mini-conference area, television, fridge, microwave, kitchen, AC, washroom, sound system, and security cameras.
The State government is set to unveil the new caravan tourism policy by July 30. It is aimed at bridging the shortage of star hotel rooms in popular tourist circuits. By then, the government plans to deploy more caravans across major tourist destinations.
The caravan cost for a family of 12, including two children, will be less than car travel and star hotel accommodation, besides the rich experience.
Explaining the bold new initiative, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Amrapali Kata, said, “Construction of star hotels is a costly affair. That’s why we are introducing luxury caravans to overcome the shortage of rooms. The high-end facilities in the caravans will amaze tourists.”
The manufacturer has come forward to operate a caravan for a minimum Rs 40,000 for 10 members depending on the distance. This brings the per-head cost to around Rs 4,000, far more economical than car travel and luxury hotel accommodation. The caravans are set to revolutionise travel and tourism in the State, the APTDC MD added.
Caravan ops to begin after policy rollout
Speaking to TNIE, J Kalyan Kumar Reddy, founder of Hyderabad Luxe Caravans, said, “We have proposed caravans on Hyderabad-Gandikota and Hyderabad-Suryalanka routes. However, tourists can book the caravan to any destination of their choice.”
On pricing, he explained, “We will charge Rs 90-100 per km for the minimum travel distance of 350 km a day, and additional charges are based on the travel schedule. Caravans can go anywhere in the State without any restriction, except for Tirumala. The caravans will begin commercial operations in the State from July 30 after the AP government announces its caravan policy. Till then, the caravans will be operated from Hyderabad on Telangana registration.”
