Andhra Pradesh Tourism wins two Silver Banyan Awards

New Delhi: Andhra Pradesh Tourism has won two Silver Banyan Awards at THE WEEK Heritage Awards 2026, recognising the State’s strength in spiritual, heritage and sustainable tourism.

Srisailam was awarded the Silver Banyan Award for Spiritual Tourism, while Ahobilam received the Silver Banyan Heritage Award for Sustainable Tourism. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presented the awards to Mrs. Padma Rani Seela, CMCO of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority.

Nestled in the Nallamala Hills, Srisailam is renowned for the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple—a rare site housing both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha. Ahobilam, located in the same mountain range, is famous for its Nava Narasimha Kshetras (nine sacred shrines), blending ancient architecture, waterfalls, and eco-friendly pilgrimage trails.

Addressing the event, Union Minister Shekhawat emphasized the growth of experience-led tourism, highlighting central initiatives like PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan that boost local economies and heritage conservation. Driven by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, Andhra Pradesh continues to promote its "One State. Many Holidays" vision, focusing on sustainable infrastructure, cultural preservation, and community-led travel experiences.