Published on
August 12, 2025 |
In a welcome boost to India’s tourism industry, the Telangana government, in association with Hyderabad-based The Culinary Lounge, has created the nation’s first-ever Culinary and Experiential Tourism Accelerator. The move is aimed at leveraging the USD 1-trillion-plus global culinary tourism sector. This accelerator, launched through The August Fest, aims to foster the next generation of culinary and cultural entrepreneurs while encouraging innovation, sustainability, and heritage conservation in the food tourism and experiential tourism industries.
The program is supported by Telangana Innovation Cell (TGIC) and NICE Org, with The Culinary Lounge acting as the knowledge partner. By offering resources, mentorship, and access to expert networks, the accelerator is designed to boost startups in culinary tourism and experiential tourism, sectors that have seen rapid growth globally in recent years.
Key Features of the Culinary and Experiential Tourism Accelerator
The Culinary and Experiential Tourism Accelerator will provide startups in the culinary tourism and experiential tourism fields with:
- Access to expert networks and domain mentors
- Incubator facilities and resources
- Opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration
- Focus on regional inclusion and community impact
- Access to markets for expanding business reach
- Funding opportunities for scaling up operations
This initiative is positioned to encourage innovation in food as a form of culture and commerce, transforming food and hospitality into critical infrastructure that can contribute to economic growth and social inclusion across the region.
Transforming Culinary Culture into an Economic Force
“This is about reimagining food not just as culture or commerce, but as critical innovation infrastructure, with both social and economic impact,” said Gopi Byluppala, Founder & CEO of The Culinary Lounge. His vision of integrating culinary heritage with modern business strategies aims to foster a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry that extends beyond the traditional realms of sightseeing.
Meraj Faheem, CEO of Telangana Innovation Cell (TGIC), echoed this sentiment, highlighting the accelerator’s role in identifying innovative startups that will help preserve and promote the state’s cultural heritage. “We are committed not just to sustaining our legacy within Telangana, but also to taking it beyond state borders,” he noted.
Creating Job Opportunities and Building a Global Brand
The launch of the accelerator is also part of the larger vision for Telangana to position itself as a global leader in experiential tourism. By supporting cultural entrepreneurs in the food and tourism sectors, the initiative is expected to generate employment, encourage investment, and foster economic development in the region. Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary for Tourism & Culture, explained, “This accelerator program is a crucial step in transforming our cultural assets into economic opportunities.”
By promoting food tourism, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism, Telangana aims to solidify its position as a global brand known for its unique and authentic cultural experiences.
The Culinary & Cultural Passport: A Unique Travel Experience
In an exciting development, the event also introduced the concept of a Culinary & Cultural Passport for Telangana. This passport will allow tourists to collect stamps from various culinary and cultural destinations across the state. Proposed locations to be included in the passport’s trails are Oragallu, Ramappa Temple, Sakinalu, Sarvapindi, Gussadi, Perni Natyam, and Ananthagiri Hills.
This initiative, set to launch soon, is aimed at promoting local heritage and cultural tourism, giving visitors a tangible and interactive way to experience Telangana’s rich culture while exploring its culinary offerings. According to Gopi Byluppala, work on the passport is well underway, with its official launch expected soon.
The Role of Local Communities and Artisans in the Program
One of the most exciting aspects of the accelerator is its focus on empowering local communities and artisans. The promotion of Adire—a traditional indigo-dyed fabric—has already had a profound impact on local businesses, especially women artisans who are benefiting from the increased visibility and demand for their crafts. The accelerator’s support for artisans ensures that traditional crafts and cultural practices continue to thrive, providing sustainable income for local communities.
Future Outlook: A Stronger Ecosystem for Culinary Tourism
With the launch of the Culinary and Experiential Tourism Accelerator, Telangana is positioning itself as a frontrunner in the global tourism and culinary tourism sectors. By embracing sustainability, heritage preservation, and innovation, the state is creating a robust ecosystem that not only promotes its culture but also drives economic development through tourism.
A New Era for Telangana’s Cultural and Culinary Tourism
The joint venture of Telangana, The Culinary Lounge, and other development agencies is ushering in a new era for India’s tourism sector. The state’s emphasis on integrating culinary tourism with sustainable practices can potentially change local economies, encourage cultural exchange, and enhance international tourism. As the Culinary and Experiential Tourism Accelerator expands, it will be a key driver in making Telangana a world tourism destination, providing distinctive and authentic experiences for global tourists.
