Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach to Host 41st IATO Annual Convention as City Strengthens Its MICE Credentials
Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach will host the 41st Indian Association of Tour
Operators Annual Convention from 10–13 September 2026, bringing one of India’s most
prominent tourism industry gatherings to Visakhapatnam.
Event Overview
- Dates: 10–13 September 2026
- Venue: Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, overlooking the Bay of Bengal
- Support: Government of Andhra Pradesh
- Attendees: Policymakers, tourism boards, tour operators, hospitality leaders, and representatives from nearly 18 State Tourism Departments
Convention Highlights
- Delegate registrations, inaugural ceremony, business sessions, networking events
- Indian Tourism Fair Travel Mart (11–12 Sept)
- Evening cultural programmes showcasing Andhra Pradesh’s heritage
- Expected presence of the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister of Tourism, and senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism
Themes & Discussions
- Future of Indian tourism
- Sustainable travel and destination development
- Industry collaboration and responsible tourism practices
Signature Experiences
- IATO Run for Responsible Tourism
- Tourism awards ceremony
- Cultural evenings
- Post-convention tours across Andhra Pradesh
Venue Significance
Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach strengthens its reputation as a premier MICE destination, offering expansive event spaces and modern hospitality for large-scale national and international gatherings.
Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager, noted:
> “It is a proud opportunity to welcome India’s travel and tourism fraternity and showcase Visakhapatnam’s growing potential as a leading destination for leisure and MICE tourism.”
This convention not only elevates Visakhapatnam’s profile on India’s tourism and MICE map, but also positions the city as a hub for sustainable, collaborative, and future-focused tourism development.
