Major boost to tourism in Karnataka planned

The tourism sector in Karnataka will be given a major thrust with several new projects announced to increase the number of visitors, both national and international, to different destinations in the State. To implement this, a master plan has been drawn which stresses on improving infrastructure and allowing private participation in projects.

The State has announced setting up a Coastal Beach Tourism Task Force for developing three coastal districts. These are Udupi, Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada. Mangaluru’s well-known Sasihithlu beach will be developed into an international surfing destination through a public private partnership scheme.

To make stay at different popular tourist destinations more comfortable, Yatri Niwas accommodation will be set up through private partnership. With a view to provide a boost to air and heli tourism, airstrips in Kodagu. Chikkamgaluru and Dharmasthala will be developed.

Museums will also be the centre of focus for attracting tourists and for this 16 of them will be upgraded. Among these are the ones in Kalaburagi, Gadag and Bengaluru. Vijayapura’s Ananda Mahal building will now become a museum.

Since Mysuru sees heavy footfall of visitors, the Karnataka Archaeological Museum and Art Gallery will be established near Chamundi Vihar stadium. Here the rich art and cultural heritage of Karnataka will be showcased. It will also use Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality technology of international standards to provide visitors an immersive experience.

At major popular tourist spots multimedia sound and light show programmes will be introduced. These include the Bidar Fort, Vijaya Vittala temple in Hampi, Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur, Bhoganandeeshwara temple near Nandi Hills, Badami caves and Kittur Fort.

To popularise eco-tourism, the coffee plantations and areas growing the Mysuru mallige jasmine will be focused upon.