Bengaluru, 22 April: Karnataka tourism has witnessed a strong post-pandemic recovery, with total visitor numbers rising sharply to 30.21 crore in 2025. The increase of more than 22 crore visits highlights a sustained growth trajectory, positioning the State among India’s top tourism destinations.
The surge has been driven primarily by domestic travel, which has witnessed nearly a fourfold rise over the last few years. While foreign tourist arrivals have also recovered, their growth has been comparatively gradual.
Karnataka Tourism Growth Driven by Domestic Travel
Tourism, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil said that improved connectivity, policy initiatives, and affordability have played a key role in boosting domestic tourism.
“The Shakti scheme is a major contributor to the increase in domestic travel within the State,” he noted. The scheme, which provides free bus travel for women, has significantly enhanced mobility and encouraged more intra-state tourism.
Karnataka continues to rank among the top three states in India for domestic tourist arrivals, reflecting its diverse offerings ranging from heritage and spirituality to nature and adventure. The rapid growth of Karnataka tourism highlights the increasing preference for domestic travel experiences.
Coastal and Emerging Destinations Witness Growth
Coastal districts such as Dakshina Kannada and Udupi have emerged as major tourism hotspots, each attracting over 5 crore visitors. Their beaches, temples, and cultural heritage continue to draw travelers from across the country.
Inland regions are also seeing impressive growth. Gadag district has recorded a 274% rise in tourist footfall since 2019, with destinations like Lakkundi and Kappatagudda gaining popularity among heritage and history enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, Kodagu has experienced nearly 200% growth, driven by coffee tourism, eco-tourism, and an expanding network of homestays offering immersive travel experiences.
Industry Perspective
Abdul Kashif President Travel Agents Association of Karnataka highlighted that changing travel preferences have significantly contributed to the surge.
“Domestic tourism has become the backbone of Karnataka’s travel ecosystem. There is a clear shift towards experiential travel, including eco-tourism, wellness tourism, and short weekend getaways,” he said.
He added that improved road connectivity and digital booking platforms have made travel planning easier, further boosting tourist movement within the State. Experts say Karnataka tourism is benefiting from changing travel trends and improved connectivity.
Tourist Footfall Trends (2021–2025)
- 2021: 7.83 crore (0.71 lakh foreign)
- 2022: 18.78 crore (0.90 lakh foreign)
- 2023: 27.85 crore (3.80 lakh foreign)
- 2024: 31.09 crore (5.12 lakh foreign)
- 2025: 30.21 crore (4.37 lakh foreign)
While domestic tourism has surged, foreign tourist arrivals have improved from 71,000 in 2021 to 4.37 lakh in 2025, indicating gradual recovery.
UNESCO World Heritage Push to Boost Global Appeal
The State government is preparing proposals to seek UNESCO World Heritage status for key sites such as Shravanabelagola, Lakkundi, and Hire Benakal.
Officials believe this recognition will further boost Karnataka tourism on a global scale.
Managing Over-Tourism and Infrastructure Pressure
With rising visitor numbers, the government has acknowledged concerns over infrastructure strain and over-tourism. To address these challenges, several measures are being planned:
- Carrying capacity frameworks for major destinations
- Daily visitor caps to regulate crowd flow
- Promotion of zero-emission transport
- Strengthening waste management systems
Authorities also emphasized early engagement with local communities to ensure inclusive growth and sustainable tourism practices.
Cultural Diplomacy and Foreign Tourism Strategy
To further boost international tourism, the State has launched the Karnataka Centre for Cultural Diplomacy, aimed at promoting Karnataka’s culture, heritage, and creative industries globally.
Officials are also encouraging business travelers to extend their visits for leisure, a strategy expected to improve foreign tourist footfall and increase tourism revenue.
Outlook
Karnataka’s tourism sector is expected to maintain strong growth momentum, supported by domestic demand, policy initiatives, and infrastructure investments. While challenges such as over-tourism and infrastructure pressure remain, the State’s focus on sustainability and global outreach is likely to ensure long-term success.
With continued strategic planning and stakeholder collaboration, Karnataka is well-positioned to strengthen its status as one of India’s leading tourism destinations.
