Nature lovers flocking to Lambasingi also known as Lammasingi to enjoy misty climate and thick clouds can hope for a comfortable stay with the AP Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) stepping up efforts to complete the long- delayed first phase construction of resorts.
After facing hiccups, including opposition by a section of tribal inhabitants of the area and reluctance by the contractors to undertake the work under difficult hilly terrains, the corporation has ensured completion of 70% of work of first phase.
Lambasingi, a tiny village on nature’s lap in the Eastern Ghats in Chintapalle mandal, is located about 100 km from Visakhapatnam. It has gained the reputation as ‘Andhra’s Kashmir’ after the authorities recorded minus two degrees Celsius a few years ago. Since then there has been a steady stream of visitors mainly youngsters to have a feel of biting cold during winter months.
The village is known for recording consistently below 10 degrees C even as the areas in its vicinity maintain normal temperature. Tourists have been complaining about lack of basic amenities like accommodation and toilets in the village forcing many of them to return to the urban areas after spending from dawn to dusk in the village.
New Year gift
After inspecting progress of work, APTDC Divisional Manager Giri Prasad Reddy told The Hindu that the first phase of resorts was in advanced stage and it would be ready in a month making it a New Year gift to the tourists. The allocation for first phase was ₹5 crore.
Not to miss the current season, 4x2 tented accommodation built with attached toilets has been made ready. The soft launch will be made next week along with a temporary cafeteria.
The first phase will have 100-seater bar and restaurant, conference hall to accommodate 150, eight luxury suites and three deluxe rooms. The first phase will have 15 furnished rooms. The second phase will have 10 rooms. The tendering process for the second phase to be implemented at a cost of ₹4 crore is on. The schedule for construction will be 12 months.
