Figures tabled in the Rajya Sabha over tourism in the states reveal that among 35 states and Union territories, Andhra Pradesh stands third in attracting domestic tourists, Telangana occupies a disappointing 30th position.

Increased air connectivity, temple tourism and national and international events have helped Andhra Pradesh to become the hot spot not only for domestic tourists but for foreign tourists. AP witnessed a 20 per cent rise in domestic tourist arrivals and 71% increase in foreign tourists between 2013 and 2015.

During the same period, Telangana just registered a meager one percent rise in domestic arrivals while there is a 19 per cent din in a number of foreign tourist arrivals. Religious tourism seems to be the main contributor to the success of tourism in AP.