Crowds thronged the NTR beach after the festival was declared open by district in-charge minister K Kala Venkat Rao.
A musical performance by legendary singer SP Balasubrahmanyam and his team enthralled the audience.
Andhra Pradesh Finance Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, who was also present, said tourism plays a vital role in economic development of the state.
Events like floral exhibition, food courts, heli-tours have been arranged as part of the festival.