Three waterfalls in Agency to be made tourist getaways

VISAKHAPATNAM: With the tourism season on the threshold, the Tourism authorities have decided to give a facelift to three waterfalls in Visakhapatnam Agency. Dharmatham in Golugonda mandal, Sarugudu in Nathavaram mandal and Tadiguda waterfall in Ananthagiri mandal have been identified for the project.
As these waterfalls have been receiving a good number of tourists every year, facilities like parking lot, changing rooms, toilets and food stalls will be set up at these places, say the tourism officials.

At present, Katika waterfalls near Borra Caves is the only major attraction in Visakhapatnam, while the rest of the waterfalls, despite having the potential of attracting tourists, are in a shambles without even basic facilities. The Tourism Department has decided to set up cafeterias and viewpoints at the three waterfalls. Dharamatham waterfall is around 20 km west of Narsipatnam and one of the most beautiful picnic spots.

The major attraction at the spot is the Lord Shiva temple which is visited by the locals all through the year. “Dharmatham waterfalls is one of beautiful picnic spots. As a part of its development, we have provided bathing showers, dress changing rooms and a waiting hall for people visiting the nearby the old Shiva temple. A cafeteria is also proposed,” said a Tourism official from Visakhapatnam.

Sources also said that an estimated `15 lakh will be spent on the facilities at Sarugudu and around `25 lakh on amenities at Tadiguda. Developing facilities at Kothapalle waterfalls is also on the cards.

“Located at scenic points, Vizag Agency has around 15 waterfalls, but most of the tourists coming to Araku visit Katika waterfalls, while tourists going to Paderu and Lambasingi are not able to visit Ananthagiri We have identified several waterfalls across the Agency and plans are afoot to ensure basic facilities at those places,” said the tourism officer. Tourism sources added that a park at Thandava reservoir has also been proposed with an estimated investment of `12 lakh.

Project details

• Rs 15 lakh to be spent on the facilities at Sarugudu waterfall
• Rs 25 lakh funds allocated for Tadiguda waterfall

Waterfall chosen

• Dharmatham in Golugonda
• Sarugudu in Nathavaram mandal
• Tadiguda waterfall in Ananthagiri mandal

Upcoming facilities

• Parking lot
• Dress changing rooms
• Toilets
• Food stalls & cafeteria