Karnataka’s Tourism Challenges and Solutions

• Karnataka’s abundant religious, cultural, and environmental resources have been overlooked in its tourism strategy.
• The state’s decision to increase foreign tourists’ entry fee to Mysuru Palace from ₹100 to ₹1,000 has highlighted the government’s focus on short-term revenue gains over long-term, sustainable growth.
• The state hosts UNESCO World Heritage Sites, five tiger reserves, and bird sanctuaries, and offers opportunities for trekking and adventure sports.
• Despite its vast resources, Karnataka has not fully capitalized on its tourism potential and branded itself globally.
• The state did not rank among the top 10 states for foreign tourists in 2022, and none of its ASI-ticketed monuments in the top 10 list of sites frequented by international tourists.
• The lack of sustained marketing and connectivity to lesser-known and well-known tourist sites, such as the Keshava temple at Somanathapur, is a major reason for the state’s failure.
• The state government is implementing plans to promote tourism, including Destination Development Committees, a roadshow in Paris, increased participation in international travel marts, and viability gap funding for airlines.
• The Karnataka Cabinet has cleared the Tourism Policy 2024-2029, aiming to make the state one of the top five destinations for foreign tourists.