Karnataka Tourism Showcases Rich Cultural, Heritage and Nature Experiences at IITM Bengaluru 2026
By Antara Tripathy
IBG NEWS
Bengaluru, July 23, 2026: Karnataka Tourism has unveiled its diverse tourism offerings at the 26th India International Travel Mart (IITM) Bengaluru 2026, presenting the state’s unique blend of heritage, wildlife, coastal attractions, spirituality, adventure and business tourism to visitors from across India and abroad.
The three-day travel exhibition, being held from July 23 to 25 at the Tripura Vasani Palace Grounds in Bengaluru, serves as one of India’s premier platforms for the travel and tourism industry. Karnataka Tourism is participating through its pavilion at Stall No. IP7, where tourism officials, travel operators and hospitality stakeholders are engaging with industry professionals and travel enthusiasts.
Tourism Pavilion Inaugurated by Minister K.J. George
The Karnataka Tourism pavilion was inaugurated by Shri K.J. George, Karnataka’s Minister for Energy and Tourism, who reiterated the State Government’s commitment to strengthening tourism infrastructure, improving connectivity and promoting Karnataka as a globally competitive travel destination.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister said the government is focusing on world-class infrastructure, enhanced accessibility and strategic promotion of Karnataka’s tourism sector through domestic and international roadshows, travel marts and marketing campaigns.
He also highlighted the government’s emphasis on encouraging private investment while expanding tourism opportunities across coastal, heritage, eco-tourism and business travel segments.
Senior Tourism Officials Participate
The inauguration witnessed the presence of senior officials and tourism industry representatives, including:
- 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
- Shri K. Syama Raju, President, SIHRA and Karnataka Tourism Society
Representatives from the hospitality industry, travel agencies, tour operators and tourism organisations also participated in the event.
Promoting Karnataka’s Diverse Tourism Portfolio
Throughout the exhibition, Karnataka Tourism is showcasing an extensive range of tourism experiences, including:
- Heritage tourism
- Wildlife safaris
- Nature tourism
- Beach and coastal tourism
- Adventure tourism
- Wellness tourism
- Spiritual tourism
- Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism
Officials at the pavilion are providing visitors with destination guides, promotional material and information on various tourism circuits, encouraging travellers to explore destinations beyond conventional itineraries.
Home to Four UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Karnataka remains one of India’s richest heritage destinations with four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting its historical significance and architectural excellence:
- Group of Monuments at Hampi
- Group of Monuments at Pattadakal
- Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas
- Western Ghats
These globally recognised sites attract millions of domestic and international tourists every year and represent Karnataka’s remarkable cultural legacy and biodiversity.
Wildlife and Eco-Tourism Continue to Attract Visitors
Apart from its historical landmarks, Karnataka is renowned for its wildlife tourism.
The state includes significant portions of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and several internationally recognised protected forests, including:
- Bandipur National Park
- Nagarahole National Park
- Biligiri Ranganatha (BRT) Tiger Reserve
These destinations provide exceptional opportunities for wildlife safaris, bird watching, eco-tourism and nature-based experiences.
Expanding Coastal Tourism
Karnataka’s 343-kilometre Arabian Sea coastline is another major attraction showcased at IITM Bengaluru.
Popular destinations include:
- Karwar
- Gokarna
- Murudeshwar
- Malpe
- Ullal
The state government is also working on the proposed Karavali–Malnad Tourism Policy 2026, which aims to boost beach tourism, cruise tourism, water sports and eco-tourism while encouraging greater private sector investment in coastal infrastructure.
Celebrating Karnataka’s Cultural Heritage
The tourism showcase also highlights Karnataka’s vibrant festivals and cultural traditions, including:
- Mysuru Dasara
- Hampi Utsav
- Karavali Utsav
- Kadalekai Parishe
These festivals offer visitors immersive experiences through traditional music, dance, crafts, local cuisine and regional customs.
Bengaluru Strengthens MICE Tourism
Officials noted that Bengaluru’s status as India’s leading technology and innovation hub has significantly enhanced Karnataka’s position in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism sector.
The city’s modern convention facilities, excellent connectivity and hospitality infrastructure continue to attract national and international business events alongside leisure tourism.
Strengthening Tourism Partnerships
During IITM Bengaluru 2026, Karnataka Tourism and its co-exhibitors are expected to hold extensive interactions with travel agents, destination management companies, tour operators and hospitality professionals from India and overseas.
These engagements are aimed at building new business partnerships, expanding tourism outreach and promoting Karnataka as a year-round destination for heritage, leisure, business and adventure tourism.
With its blend of ancient heritage, pristine beaches, rich wildlife, vibrant festivals and modern urban infrastructure, Karnataka continues to position itself as one of India’s most diverse and dynamic tourism destinations, offering experiences that cater to every category of traveller.
