The Telangana Government is accelerating efforts to transform Bhongir Fort into a world-class tourism destination with the development of a ropeway and modern visitor infrastructure under the ₹56.81-crore Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, Tourism, Culture, Archaeology and Excise Minister Jupally Krishna Rao said on Sunday.
During an extensive tour of Yadadri Bhuvanagiri and Suryapet districts, the Minister conducted a field-level inspection of ongoing development works at Bhongir Fort, laid foundation stones for conservation works at the Phanigiri and Gajulabanda Buddhist heritage sites, and announced major development initiatives for the historic Sri Someswara Swamy Temple at Kolanupaka.
Bhongir Fort Development
At Bhongir Fort, the Minister reviewed the progress of the ropeway project, tourism infrastructure works and fort restoration activities being undertaken under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0.
He inspected the proposed ropeway, hotel, parking facilities, restrooms, children’s play area, illumination works, restoration of the fort, beautification of water bodies, cafeteria, interpretation centre, restoration of historic steps, entrance plaza, ticket counter, waiting lounge, restaurant and other visitor amenities.
Interacting with officials and representatives of the executing agencies, Krishna Rao expressed dissatisfaction over delays in implementation and directed them to complete all works by October 2. He instructed officials to closely monitor the progress and ensure that works are taken up on a war footing, including round-the-clock execution wherever required.
The Minister said the project aims to create a seamless visitor experience by combining heritage conservation with modern tourism infrastructure while preserving the historical grandeur of the fort. He expressed confidence that the ropeway and upgraded facilities would significantly enhance tourist footfall and position Bhongir Fort among the premier heritage tourism destinations in the country.
Heritage Conservation and Tourism Development
Speaking to media persons, Minister Krishna Rao said the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has accorded high priority to tourism development, heritage conservation and creation of world-class visitor infrastructure.
He said Telangana’s new Tourism Policy aims to transform the State into one of India’s most preferred tourism destinations by promoting investment, generating employment and creating sustainable economic opportunities through tourism.
“The government’s vision is to develop Telangana into a globally recognised spiritual, heritage and cultural tourism hub by 2047,” he said.
₹5 Crore for Integrated Development of Phanigiri
Earlier in the day, the Minister, along with Tungaturthy MLA Mandula Samuel, laid foundation stones for conservation and restoration works at the ancient Buddhist heritage sites of Phanigiri and Gajulabanda in Suryapet district.
The conservation works are being undertaken with support from Telangana GENCO (YTPS) CSR funds, with ₹1.60 crore earmarked for Phanigiri and ₹23 lakh for Gajulabanda.
Describing Phanigiri as one of the most significant Buddhist heritage centres in South India, the Minister said Buddhism represents peace, non-violence and humanitarian values, and preserving such invaluable heritage for future generations is the responsibility of governments.
He said sculptures, inscriptions and coins unearthed during excavations at the site reflect Telangana’s rich historical and cultural legacy and have the potential to attract national and international visitors.
Responding to a request made by the local MLA, the Minister announced an additional allocation of ₹5 crore for the integrated development of Phanigiri. The funds will be utilised for development of the approach road, construction of steps leading to the hilltop complex, creation of tourism infrastructure and enhancement of visitor amenities.
He said the development of Phanigiri and Gajulabanda would further strengthen Telangana’s position on the national and international Buddhist tourism map while generating employment opportunities for local youth and boosting the rural economy.
Kolanupaka Someswara Temple to be Developed as Smart Temple
The Minister also visited the historic Sri Someswara Swamy Temple at Kolanupaka and offered special prayers.
Describing the temple as one of Telangana’s most ancient and spiritually significant heritage monuments, Minister Krishna Rao announced that it would be developed as a Smart Temple with modern facilities for devotees while preserving its heritage character.
He announced an allocation of ₹5 crore for the development of the temple. The proposed works include improvement of temple surroundings, expansion of pilgrim amenities, strengthening of tourism infrastructure, enhanced sanitation measures and introduction of digital services for devotees.
The Minister said the government aims to develop Kolanupaka into a major spiritual, heritage and tourism destination capable of attracting devotees and tourists from across India and abroad.
Integrated Tourism Circuits
Mr. Krishna Rao said the government is pursuing a destination-based tourism strategy by integrating heritage monuments, spiritual centres and Buddhist sites into thematic tourism circuits capable of attracting both domestic and international visitors.
He said efforts are underway to develop a comprehensive heritage and spiritual tourism circuit connecting Yadadri, Bhongir Fort and Kolanupaka, while simultaneously strengthening Buddhist tourism destinations such as Phanigiri and Gajulabanda.
The Minister reiterated that the government is committed to providing world-class facilities for tourists and preserving Telangana’s rich heritage for future generations.
He appealed to citizens to actively support the State’s tourism initiatives and encouraged people to regularly visit tourist destinations across Telangana, noting that tourism promotes cultural awareness, generates livelihoods and contributes to mental well-being and community development.
Among those present during the tour were Bhongir MLA Kumbham Anil Kumar Reddy, Bhongir MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy, Whip Beerla Ilaiah,Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Gauthami, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri District Collector Anurag Jayanti, Suryapet District Collector Tejas Nandalal Pawar, Archaeology Department Director Dr. Arjun Rao, Government senior officials, public representatives and local residents.
