The Karnataka Tourism pavilion was inaugurated by Shri K.J. George, Hon’ble Minister for Energy and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, in the presence of Dr. V. Ram Prasath Manohar, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism; Shri Shivaprasad P.R., IAS, Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC); Shri Sivaram Babu, IFS, Managing Director, Jungle Lodges and Resorts; and Shri K. Syama Raju, President, SIHRA and Karnataka Tourism Society, along with senior tourism stakeholders, industry representatives, and members of the travel fraternity.

As one of India’s leading travel trade exhibitions, IITM Bengaluru brought together more than 850 exhibitors representing over 25 international destinations and 20 Indian tourism destinations, providing a dynamic platform for tourism boards, hospitality brands, airlines, tour operators, destination management companies, and travel service providers to connect, collaborate, and explore new business opportunities. Karnataka participated alongside 16 tourism stakeholders, representing hotels, resorts, tour operators, and tourism service providers from across the State.

Throughout the exhibition, Karnataka Tourism and its stakeholders engaged in a series of productive business-to-business (B2B) interactions with travel agents, tour operators, destination management companies, corporate planners, hospitality professionals, and travel enthusiasts from across India and overseas. These engagements facilitated valuable discussions on destination promotion, itinerary development, collaborative marketing initiatives, and business partnerships, further strengthening Karnataka’s presence within the travel trade.

A major highlight of Karnataka’s participation was the State receiving the ‘Best Nature & Wildlife Tourism Destination’ award at IITM Bengaluru 2026, recognising its outstanding contribution towards wildlife conservation and nature-based tourism. Home to iconic protected areas such as Bandipur National Park, Nagarahole National Park, and the Biligiri Ranganatha (BRT) Tiger Reserve, along with significant portions of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Karnataka continues to be recognised as one of India’s premier wildlife destinations offering exceptional biodiversity and immersive eco-tourism experiences.

The pavilion also generated considerable interest among visitors by highlighting Karnataka’s diverse tourism experiences, including its four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, scenic Western Ghats, coffee landscapes, coastal destinations, cultural festivals, wellness retreats, and rapidly expanding MICE infrastructure centred around Bengaluru. Visitors interacted with Department officials and tourism stakeholders to gain information on curated itineraries, emerging destinations, and tourism circuits across the State.

Participation at IITM Bengaluru 2026 further reinforced Karnataka Tourism’s commitment to strengthening industry partnerships and promoting the State as a year-round destination offering experiences for every category of traveller. The exhibition enabled tourism stakeholders to establish new business relationships, enhance destination visibility, and identify opportunities for future collaborations across domestic and international markets.

Karnataka Tourism’s successful participation at IITM Bengaluru 2026 reflects the Department’s continued efforts to position the State among India’s leading tourism destinations while creating sustainable growth opportunities for its tourism industry. The business connections, stakeholder interactions, and market exposure generated during the exhibition are expected to contribute towards increased visitor interest and stronger tourism partnerships in the months ahead.

The Karnataka Tourism pavilion was inaugurated by Shri K.J. George, Hon’ble Minister for Energy and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, who reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure, improving connectivity, promoting coastal tourism and encouraging private investment to position Karnataka as a leading global tourism destination.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Hon’ble Minister highlighted that accessibility and world-class infrastructure remain central to Karnataka’s tourism development strategy. He also emphasized the Government’s continued efforts to promote the State through travel marts, roadshows and strategic domestic and international marketing initiatives while strengthening partnerships with the travel trade.

Senior officials present on the occasion included Dr. V. Ram Prasath Manohar, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism; Shri Shivaprasad P.R., IAS, Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC); Shri Sivaram Babu, IFS, Managing Director, Jungle Lodges and Resorts; and Shri K. Syama Raju, President, SIHRA and Karnataka Tourism Society, along with tourism stakeholders, industry representatives and members of the travel fraternity from across the country.

During the three-day exhibition, Karnataka Tourism and its co-exhibiting tourism stakeholders will engage with travel agents, tour operators, destination management companies, hospitality professionals and travel enthusiasts from across India and international markets. The interactions are expected to strengthen industry partnerships, generate new business opportunities and promote Karnataka’s diverse tourism offerings across key source markets.

At the pavilion, visitors can explore Karnataka’s extensive tourism offerings spanning heritage, wildlife, nature, beaches, wellness, adventure, spirituality and MICE tourism. Tourism officials and stakeholders will provide destination information, promotional literature and insights into the State’s diverse tourism circuits, enabling visitors to discover experiences beyond the conventional travel itinerary.

Karnataka is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Group of Monuments at Hampi, the Group of Monuments at Pattadakal, the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, and the Western Ghats – reflecting the State’s exceptional cultural heritage, architectural brilliance and remarkable biodiversity.

Complementing its heritage attractions, Karnataka offers some of India’s finest wildlife and eco-tourism experiences. The State includes significant portions of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, with renowned protected areas such as Bandipur National Park, Nagarahole National Park and the Biligiri Ranganatha (BRT) Tiger Reserve, providing exceptional opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Karnataka’s 343-kilometre Arabian Sea coastline offers a diverse range of tourism experiences through destinations such as Karwar, Gokarna, Murudeshwar, Malpe and Ullal, combining pristine beaches, coastal cuisine, pilgrimage, water-based activities and scenic landscapes. The Government is also strengthening this segment through the proposed Karavali–Malnad Tourism Policy 2026, aimed at promoting beach tourism, cruise tourism, water sports and eco-tourism while encouraging greater private sector participation.

The State’s vibrant cultural identity is showcased through iconic festivals including Mysuru Dasara, Hampi Utsav, Karavali Utsav and Kadalekai Parishe, offering visitors authentic experiences rooted in Karnataka’s traditions, performing arts, crafts and cuisine. Complementing these experiences, Bengaluru continues to strengthen Karnataka’s position as one of India’s leading business and innovation hubs, making the State an attractive destination for both leisure and MICE tourism.

As one of India’s premier travel exhibitions, IITM Bengaluru provides an important platform for Karnataka Tourism to strengthen industry relationships, expand its tourism outreach and reinforce the State’s position as one of India’s leading tourism destinations. Visitors are invited to visit Stall No. IP7 to explore Karnataka’s diverse tourism experiences and interact with the Department’s officials and tourism stakeholders throughout the exhibition.

At this year’s edition, Karnataka Tourism will present a vibrant and experiential pavilion showcasing the state’s tourism tagline, “One State, Many Worlds.” Visitors to the Karnataka stall can expect to experience the breadth of the state’s travel opportunities—ranging from ancient heritage sites and lush wildlife reserves to spiritual circuits, adventure getaways, and culinary journeys.

Special focus will be placed on promoting UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Group of Monuments at Hampi, Pattadakal, and the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, alongside key wildlife attractions like Kabini, Bandipur, and Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. The display will also feature destinations like Coorg, Chikmagalur, Jog Falls, and the state’s scenic coastline, appealing to both leisure and experiential travellers.

With strong interest from the South Indian travel market in destinations that offer cultural richness, spiritual depth, and natural beauty, Karnataka’s participation at IITM Chennai 2025 is a timely opportunity to position the state as a year-round destination. The event is also expected to facilitate meaningful B2B interactions with stakeholders from Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states.

Karnataka’s presence at IITM Chennai is backed by an official delegation from the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, along with key private stakeholders, who will actively engage with the travel trade to explore partnerships and collaborative promotions.

Karnataka Tourism looks forward to welcoming all travel trade professionals, media, and visitors to its pavilion at IITM Chennai 2025 to discover why the state continues to be one of India’s most dynamic and diverse tourism destinations.

Designed as a comprehensive engagement platform, the roadshow facilitated meaningful connections between Karnataka’s tourism stakeholders and top tour operators, travel agents, and association members from Kolkata and neighbouring regions. Attendees explored the state’s diverse travel offerings from the historical wonders of Hampi, Mysuru, and Badami, to the serene retreats of Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Kabini. Also featured were the spiritual corridors of Shravanabelagola, Udupi, and Dharmasthala, along with the urban and tech-driven attractions of Bengaluru.

Dr. Rajendra K V, IAS, Commissioner – Karnataka Tourism, led the delegation of Karnataka Stakeholders, and spotlighted the state’s strategic tourism initiatives. “Our vision is to establish Karnataka as a top-tier destination in both domestic and international markets,” he noted. “The response from the Eastern travel trade fraternity reflects the growing interest in curated, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences.”

The event featured interactive one-on-one networking sessions, and detailed destination presentations. Karnataka Tourism underscored its commitment to responsible tourism, unveiling initiatives that promote eco-friendly practices, rural tourism, and experiential travel.

Participants welcomed the detailed insights into travel circuits, infrastructure upgrades, and upcoming packages tailored for evolving traveller preferences. The showcase not only elevated awareness of Karnataka’s iconic destinations but also introduced hidden gems ideal for niche tourism segments.

The Kolkata roadshow is part of Karnataka Tourism’s nationwide outreach program aimed at enhancing market visibility and strengthening trade alliances across India.

Karnataka Tourism extends its sincere gratitude to the travel trade fraternity of Eastern India and looks forward to continued collaboration in promoting the state’s unparalleled travel experiences.

The award-winning Karnataka Tourism stand was a stunning showcase of the state’s rich heritage, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty. It highlighted UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Hampi and Pattadakal, alongside other significant monuments. The stand also brought to life Karnataka’s wildlife reserves and eco-tourism offerings, providing visitors with an immersive glimpse into the state’s diverse landscapes.

Throughout the event, the Karnataka Tourism delegation actively engaged with domestic and international tour operators, travel agents, and key stakeholders, fostering new partnerships and business opportunities. The overwhelmingly positive response from attendees reaffirms Karnataka’s position as a top travel destination in India.

TTF Bengaluru 2025 featured exhibitors from across the travel industry, including tourism boards, hospitality brands, airlines, and travel tech innovators. The event served as a powerful networking and business platform, reinforcing Bengaluru’s significance as a premier travel hub in South India.

The event was inaugurated by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, followed by an impressive panel of esteemed dignitaries. Their presence underscored the significance of OTM as a key platform for promoting tourism across India.

The Karnataka Pavilion highlighted the state’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, wildlife, and adventure tourism, reinforcing its position as a must-visit destination. Key attractions such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the spiritual circuits of the state, scenic hill stations, pristine beaches, and thriving ecotourism initiatives were prominently featured.

During the event, Karnataka Tourism successfully engaged in high-level B2B meetings, fostering collaborations with national and international travel trade partners. These interactions aimed to enhance inbound tourism and promote Karnataka as a year-round travel destination.

A moment of pride for Karnataka Tourism was winning the prestigious “Excellence Award – Group Participation” at OTM Mumbai 2025, recognizing the state’s outstanding presence and active participation at the event. This accolade further strengthens Karnataka’s reputation as a leading player in India’s tourism sector.

The delegation from Karnataka Tourism included senior officials, thirty-one industry stakeholders, and tour operators, all of whom contributed to the state’s successful representation. Interactive sessions, and immersive experiences at the pavilion added to the overall visitor engagement.

Karnataka Tourism remains committed to promoting sustainable and responsible tourism while continuing to offer unparalleled travel experiences to domestic and international tourists.