Hyderabad: The Telangana government plans to create the Somashila Wellness Spiritual Retreat in the Nallamala forests using over Rs 68 crore provided by the central government.
Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao, along with Secretary Jayesh Ranjan and Tourism Development Corporation MD Valluru Kranthi, visited Somashila, Amaragiri Island, and other attractions on Wednesday. The Minister highlighted the potential for tourism in Telangana and the government’s efforts to boost employment through tourism development.
During the visit, Krishna Rao checked out places like Kalvakurthi Lift Irrigation, Narlapur Reservoir, Madhavaswamy Temple in Kolhapur, and Jetaprolu Madanagopala Swamy Temple.
He stated the Somashila Wellness Spiritual Retreat Nallamala Project is part of the Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI) fund, with Rs 68.10 crore allocated by the Centre. Top officials were instructed to focus on developing Somashila, Amaragiri Island, and Eagalapenta.
A review of the project proposals and operations took place at the Kolhapur camp office. The Minister emphasized the importance of coordinating state departments to turn Telangana into a tourism hub, urging officials to initiate tenders quickly and adhere to quality standards.
He assured that tourist spots would be developed to meet international standards, aiming to attract both local and foreign visitors. The funds will enhance areas like Somashila, Amaragiri Island, Malleswaram, and Eagalapenta, rich in natural resources, temples, and opportunities for water sports and adventure activities.
The project will have three clusters: Cluster 1 includes the Egalapenta Arrival Zone, Egalapenta Vihara Yatra, Eagalapenta River Cruise, and Chengu Tribal Experience. Cluster 2 focuses on Somashila’s wellness and spiritual retreat, featuring a boating jetty, cottages, swimming pool, cafeteria, spa, wellness center, and various indoor and outdoor games on Amaragiri’s islands.
