Telangana Tourism is taking new initiatives to promote eco-tourism and tourism in general in the state. The state tourism body has opened an air-conditioned two-storey ferry, and ten three-star cottages at the backwaters of Krishna River towards this initiative. Located in Somasila, Kollapur, which is about 250 km away from Hyderabad, these tourist facilities were inaugurated by Srinivas Goud, Tourism and Culture Minister of State.

Somasila was once a Naxal zone, and hence it was off the tourism map. But now, the tourism department of Telangana is planning to transform it into a world-class eco-tourism destination. As it is, Somasila is surrounded by lovely forests, and of course, River Krishna adds to the charm here.

The three-star cottages have splendid views of the river, and have been constructed in room and dormitory-style. The air-conditioned ferry, on the other hand, has an open-air cafe and an air-conditioned restaurant on the upper deck, so it is set to attract tourists. According to reports, the tourism body is soon going to start a package service from Somasila to Srisailam. Also, in the nearby town of Singotam, the Telangana State Tourism board has launched dormitory cottage services, along with water sports facilities.

According to reports, the authorities are also looking to identify trek routes and water-sports zones that can be developed in the area.