Touted as the world's first handicrafts hotel when it opened in November 2018, the Andhra Art and Craft Hotel in Visakhapatnam proudly showcases the traditional artistic talent of the state of Andhra Pradesh. With 70 sculptures and 50 outstanding installations, the heritage wing of the Palm Beach Hotel has an interesting story behind each one of its creative design and art.
They speak of the rich tradition of the state and the important to preserve and promote it. A sister concern of Le Sutra, Mumbai, this is their third project that focusses on the craftsmanship of Andhra Pradesh. Apart from a luxury stay, the hotel’s architecture and design will ignite your curiosity and pull you into learning more about the state’s cultural heritage.
Designed by award-winning artists and craftsmen of the state, the heritage wing of the hotel pushes forth the legacy of Andhra Pradesh by introducing 24 boutique rooms decorated in different themes. There's art and creativity in small and big spaces scattered in the sprawling property.
National-winning artisans and sculptors have made each of the 24 boutique rooms, and every space a work of art and creativity based on the four popular crafts traditions of Andhra Pradesh. The four ‘concept rooms ‘ have lent the hotel a distinctive traditional character.
Tholu Bommalata or leather shadow puppetry, Budithi brassworks, Kalamkari pen art and Etikoppaka toys used as themes of each room give each guest and unique experience. Merging art, comfort and luxury, the seaside hotel creates a fusion of tradition and modern.
Named 'Microcosm of Andhra', the Palm Beach Hotel’s heritage wing introduces guests to the state’s art and culture. Each chair, wardrobe, bathroom fittings and décor reeks of a passion for art and well-thought detailing – a rare inclusion in hotel spaces.
The hotel has four wings, tastefully and elegantly done up in four different themes. Six rooms of the hotel are decorated with Etikoppaka dolls. Made of lacquer, the dolls are traditionally known as Etikoppaka Bommalu. A colonial teak bed adorns the rooms, giving it a traditional touch.
Five rooms have the Kalamkari design, a type of hand-painted or block-printed cotton textile produced in Andhra Pradesh. Budithi brassware are used to decorate and design five rooms in the hotel. Budithi village in Andhra’s Central Srikakulam district is known for brassware items, designed with geometric patterns and straight lines.
The theme of Tholu Bommalata, or leather puppets, has been used in six rooms. It is a shadow puppet theatre dating back to 2,000 years.
The hotel has its private beach, a stretch of the beautiful, pristine RK beach. Its outdoor swimming pool and four restaurants are the other attractions.
Dusk, a lounge bar, offers an array of cuisines from across the globe. If you want more choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner, then step into Masala Mafia. Fancy a drink? There’s Mafia Bar which will serve you with your favourite drink. Want to be near the sea while a live band plays your favourite numbers? Then, opt for Sea Deck.
Around INR 7,500 for single occupancy
Contact: 8008200122 for details about room availability
The Visakhapatnam Airport is 15.36 km from Andhra Art and Craft Hotel. Visakhapatnam Junction railway station is only 5.66 km away from the hotel.