In a move aimed at boosting the State’s tourism profile, Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao on Saturday announced the launch of helicopter tourism services on the Hyderabad–Somasila–Srisailam–Hyderabad circuit from April 9.
Addressing the media at his camp office in Kollapur, the Minister said the initiative would offer tourists a panoramic aerial view of the Krishna river and the lush expanse of the Nallamala forests, enhancing the overall travel experience.
The project, being implemented in partnership with private aviation agencies, is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen high-end tourism infrastructure and improve connectivity to key pilgrimage and eco-tourism destinations.
Earlier in the day, the Minister visited Somasila and inspected the ongoing construction of the helipad facility, reviewing the arrangements ahead of the launch.
Explaining the itinerary, Mr. Rao said the journey would originate from Hyderabad, proceed to Somasila to cover its scenic backwaters, and then continue to Srisailam. Tourists would have the opportunity for boating at Somasila and darshan at the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy temple, before returning to Hyderabad on the same day.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would attract more tourists, stimulate local economic activity, and create employment opportunities for rural youth.
The Minister said the government plans to expand heli-tourism services to other prominent destinations, including Nagarjuna Sagar, Ramappa Temple, and Nizam Sagar, as part of its vision to position Telangana as a leading tourism destination at the national and international levels.
