Eco-tourism is an emerging sustainable development strategy that promotes conservation, community
involvement, and responsible travel. Andhra Pradesh, with its extensive 974-km coastline, possesses significant
ecological assets that remain underutilized. This study evaluates the eco-tourism potential in four coastal districts—
Tirupati, Nellore, Prakasam, and Bapatla—through an assessment of ecological resources, natural attractions,
infrastructure availability, community participation, and environmental challenges. Using a mixed-method
approach involving field observations, stakeholder interviews, spatial mapping, and secondary data analysis, this
research identifies major eco-tourism hotspots and constraints. Findings highlight the immense potential of
wetlands (Pulicat Lake), bird sanctuaries (Nelapattu, Uppalapadu), forest ecosystems (Penchalakona, Talakona),
and coastal landscapes (Suryalanka, Mypadu, Vodarevu). The study concludes that eco-tourism can significantly
contribute to conservation and local livelihood enhancement if supported by improved infrastructure, communitybased models, and integrated planning. Recommendations include the development of district-wise eco-circuits,
enhancement of interpretation centers, capacity building for local communities, and strict environmental
safeguards.
Keywords : eco-tourism, sustainable tourism, Andhra Pradesh, Pulicat Lake, coastal development, community participation
Author : Prof. P. Purnachandra Rao¹ and Mr. S. K. Abdul Azeez²
Title : A Study on the Potentiality of Eco-Tourism in the Selected Coastal Districts of Andhra Pradesh
Volume/Issue : 2025;02(10)
Page No : 01-08
