Global-Scale Theme Parks on Cards in AP: Minister Kandula Durgesh

The Government of Andhra Pradesh is open to establishing international-standard theme parks similar to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in the state, Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh said.

Replying to a question raised by B. Ramanjaneyulu, MLA of Prathipadu, in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Friday, the minister outlined the government’s initiatives to strengthen the tourism sector. The MLA had asked about the feasibility of setting up a large entertainment park on about 171 acres in Kurnooluthala village in Guntur district.

The minister said such mega projects would require an investment of nearly ₹60,000 crore . Globally, major theme parks are typically developed by private companies , while governments usually support them through land allocation, approvals and incentives , he explained. Countries such as the United States, Japan and France have successfully developed such parks largely due to high tourist inflow.

Durgesh noted that the spending capacity of tourists in India is still relatively low, which poses a challenge for projects of this scale. At present, an average tourist in India spends around ₹21,000 , which is lower compared with global standards. Foreign companies are more likely to invest once both tourist numbers and spending levels increase, he said.

The minister added that the government is currently holding discussions with well-known domestic amusement park companies such as Imagicaa and Wonderla. These firms have reportedly shown interest in investing in cities like Visakhapatnam and Tirupati. He expressed confidence that investors would come forward as the government has already granted industry status to tourism , offering several incentives.

During the recent investment summit held in Visakhapatnam, the tourism department signed 102 agreements worth ₹18,448 crore , including three theme park projects , the minister said. He added that such parks would not only boost tourism in the state but also create large-scale employment opportunities for local youth .