Telangana to launch heli tourism; rope in `Ease My Trip' for helicopter service

Hyderabad: Telangana is gearing up to introduce heli-tourism, offering tourists a unique aerial experience over the state’s scenic landscapes.

Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao said that the initiative is aimed at attracting visitors by combining adventure, leisure, and breathtaking views.

Helicopter services are being planned on the Hyderabad–Somashila–Srisailam–Hyderabad route in collaboration with private operators, including Ease My Trip.

“Tourists will get to spend a few hours in the sky, enjoying Telangana from a new perspective. This initiative will give a fresh boost to the state’s tourism sector,” said the Minister.

Wellness and Spiritual retreat projects inaugurated

Minister Jupally Krishna Rao on Friday inaugurated key tourism development projects in Kollapur constituency, with a combined estimated cost of Rs 68.10 crore. The projects include the Amaragiri Island Wellness Retreat and the Somashila VIP Ghat.

The Amaragiri Island project, costing Rs 45.84 crore, will feature yoga decks, pavilions, spa areas, cottages, staff accommodations, swimming pools, indoor and outdoor activities, meditation centers, viewing decks, gardening facilities, water supply and drainage systems, electrical works, and a jetty.

The Somashila VIP Ghat project, costing Rs 1.60 crore, includes trenching works to establish a boating point for tourists. These developments are expected to significantly enhance tourism in the Nallamala forests and along the Krishna River.

Focus on Tourism growth and infrastructure.

Minister Jupally Krishna Rao highlighted that Telangana is giving top priority to tourism under Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s leadership. Despite favorable conditions, tourism in the state had been neglected over the past decade.

“We aim to increase both domestic and international tourist numbers. With better infrastructure, adventure tourism, water sports, and wellness facilities, these projects will generate employment and improve amenities across the region,” the Minister added.

A floating jetty is planned to facilitate access to Amaragiri Island, and officials are taking measures to complete the project within a year.

Improved connectivity to boost Tourism

The upcoming Somashila–Siddheshwaram iconic bridge is expected to reduce travel time and increase tourist inflow.

Patel Ramesh Reddy, Chairman of the Tourism Development Corporation, said Telangana is being positioned as a leading tourism destination, with the Nallamala circuit likely to become a major tourist hub.

The inauguration was attended by MLC Damodar Reddy, Collector Badavat Santosh, and other officials.