Karnataka Wins ‘Best Nature & Wildlife Tourism Destination’ Honour at IITM Bengaluru 2026
By Antara Tripathy
Editor, IBG NEWS
Bengaluru, July 29: Karnataka has strengthened its position as one of India’s premier travel destinations after being honoured with the ‘Best Nature & Wildlife Tourism Destination’ award at the 26th India International Travel Mart (IITM) Bengaluru 2026. The recognition highlights the state’s sustained efforts in promoting eco-tourism, wildlife conservation, and sustainable tourism while showcasing its rich natural and cultural heritage.
As the Host State of IITM Bengaluru 2026, held from July 23 to 25 at the Tripura Vasani Palace Grounds, Karnataka Tourism used the three-day event to engage with tourism professionals, travel companies, and international delegates. The state’s pavilion presented a wide range of attractions, including wildlife, heritage monuments, coastal destinations, wellness tourism, adventure activities, cultural experiences, and the rapidly expanding Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
The Karnataka Tourism pavilion was inaugurated by K.J. George, Minister for Energy and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, in the presence of senior officials from the Department of Tourism, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC), Jungle Lodges and Resorts, and representatives from the tourism and hospitality industry.
IITM Bengaluru 2026 attracted more than 850 exhibitors representing over 25 international destinations and 20 Indian tourism destinations, making it one of the country’s largest travel trade events. Karnataka participated alongside 16 tourism stakeholders, including hotels, resorts, tour operators, and tourism service providers, who actively interacted with domestic and international travel buyers.
During the exhibition, Karnataka Tourism held extensive business-to-business (B2B) meetings with travel agencies, destination management companies, hospitality brands, corporate planners, and tour operators. These discussions focused on expanding tourism partnerships, developing new travel itineraries, collaborative marketing, and strengthening the state’s visibility in domestic and global tourism markets.
The state’s award-winning performance reflects its exceptional biodiversity and commitment to responsible tourism. Karnataka is home to renowned wildlife destinations such as Bandipur National Park, Nagarahole National Park, and the Biligiri Ranganatha (BRT) Tiger Reserve, while also sharing a significant portion of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. These protected landscapes continue to attract wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and eco-tourists from around the world.
Visitors to the Karnataka pavilion also explored information on the state’s four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the scenic Western Ghats, coffee plantations, pristine beaches, wellness retreats, vibrant cultural festivals, and Bengaluru’s growing MICE infrastructure. Tourism officials and industry representatives introduced visitors to curated travel circuits and emerging destinations across the state.
Officials noted that participation in IITM Bengaluru 2026 has further strengthened Karnataka’s tourism network by creating new business opportunities, expanding industry partnerships, and enhancing the state’s reputation as a year-round destination catering to leisure, adventure, business, wellness, and cultural travellers.
With its latest recognition and growing global appeal, Karnataka continues to position itself as a leading tourism destination in India, combining world-class biodiversity, rich heritage, and sustainable tourism initiatives that promise long-term growth for the state’s travel and hospitality sector.
