Andhra Pradesh Seaplane Services To Boost Tirupati’s Tourism With Kalyani Dam As The New Hotspot, India (2025)

Published onSeptember 3, 2025

India is set to introduce a revolutionary seaplane tourism initiative at Kalyani Dam near Tirupati, aiming to elevate the city’s status as a premier travel destination. This groundbreaking project places Kalyani Dam at its core, offering visitors a unique aerial experience while boosting regional tourism. The introduction of seaplane services will not only provide faster access to Tirupati’s key attractions but also enhance the city’s appeal as a significant tourism hub in India.

Plans are rapidly progressing to introduce seaplane tourism at Kalyani Dam near Tirupati, an initiative aimed at boosting Andhra Pradesh’s tourism sector and generating additional revenue. This exciting project will feature the construction of an aerodrome on the water of the dam, located about 15 kilometres from the city. Once completed, it will not only offer quicker access but also deliver a unique aerial experience for visitors to the pilgrim city. The project is set to transform the state’s tourism landscape, introducing a fresh and innovative aspect to the region’s travel infrastructure.

Strengthening Air Connectivity

The project is being spearheaded by the Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Limited (APADCL), which is working closely with other stakeholders to enhance the state’s aviation network. One significant milestone was the successful test flight that connected Vijayawada and Srisailam. This achievement has boosted confidence among authorities, prompting them to fast-track similar services, including those targeting Tirupati. By introducing seaplane tourism to the city, Andhra Pradesh hopes to bring in more tourists and improve accessibility for both pilgrims and leisure travellers alike.

The introduction of seaplane services is an innovative move, as it would allow visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape around Tirupati, while also providing a quicker, more direct route. Visitors would be able to see the famous Tirumala Hills, Chandragiri Fort, and other important attractions from a completely new perspective, which will only add to the excitement of their journey.

Detailed Project Report and Timeline

Currently, the responsibility of preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Tirupati seaplane aerodrome rests with Feedback Highways. The agency is working diligently on the proposal, which is expected to be completed by October. Once the DPR is submitted and reviewed, it will undergo the necessary technical and financial approvals, with the goal of launching the project by March next year. This timeline marks an ambitious target, but officials are optimistic that all processes will proceed smoothly, paving the way for an early 2024 start.

This seaplane initiative is part of the broader UDAN regional connectivity scheme, a government programme aimed at expanding air services across India. As part of this initiative, 56 routes were approved earlier this year, and Andhra Pradesh was allocated 32 of them. Among the proposed destinations for seaplane tourism under this scheme are Amaravati, Tirupati, Araku, Lambasingi, Konaseema, Srisailam, Rushikonda, and Gandikota. The expansion of tourism infrastructure in these areas is a key focus, with the state aiming to bolster its position as a leading tourism destination.

Phase One: Targeted Locations

In the initial phase of this initiative, seaplane tourism services will be introduced in Amaravati, Tirupati, and Gandikota. Several agencies have been assigned the task of preparing the DPR for these locations. RITES will handle Amaravati and Gandikota, while Feedback Highways will focus on the Tirupati project. This phased approach ensures that key destinations in the state are prioritised, and once operational, these systems will significantly boost the tourism experience in these regions.

The Kalyani Dam site, in particular, has been deemed ideal for seaplane operations. A recent inspection by a technical team verified that the Kalyani Dam reservoir is ideal for developing an aerodrome. The scenic location, framed by the stunning Tirumala Hills, provides an ideal backdrop for tourists to enjoy both the aerial experience and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the proximity of the Tirupati International Airport at Renigunta will provide vital technical support for the project, ensuring that the facility operates seamlessly and in line with safety regulations.

Advantages for Tirupati

The introduction of a seaplane service at Kalyani Dam is expected to have a significant positive impact on Tirupati, a city that already draws millions of visitors annually. The move will enhance the appeal of Tirupati-Tirumala, which is a major pilgrimage and tourism destination. By offering a thrilling yet practical way to travel, the seaplane service will not only make the city more accessible but also add a unique tourism attraction to the region.

In addition to the convenience, the seaplane service will likely have economic benefits for the surrounding area. With easier and quicker access to the city’s main attractions, tourism-related businesses in and around Tirupati could see an uptick in footfall. The state government anticipates that the new service will generate higher revenue from both local and international tourists, who may be encouraged to visit Tirupati due to its enhanced connectivity.

Future Prospects and Timeline

If the project adheres to the planned schedule, the seaplane aerodrome at Kalyani Dam is expected to be fully functional by March 2026. This ambitious project could serve as a signature attraction for Tirupati-Tirumala, enhancing its status as a dynamic tourism hub. Given the large number of visitors who already flock to the city for spiritual and leisure purposes, the introduction of a seaplane service is expected to be met with enthusiasm.

India is set to launch a transformative seaplane tourism initiative at Kalyani Dam near Tirupati, promising to revolutionise travel in the region. This project aims to enhance accessibility and attract more visitors to the city, solidifying its position as a key tourism hub.

As the project progresses, officials are confident that it will become a key element of Andhra Pradesh’s broader tourism strategy. By adding innovative attractions and modernising transportation infrastructure, the state aims to not only increase the number of visitors but also enhance the overall travel experience for both pilgrims and tourists.