The Karnataka government is accelerating plans to develop five key coastal tourism destinations under an integrated tourism development strategy aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving visitor experiences and unlocking the tourism potential of the state’s 320-kilometre coastline.
The five locations identified for development are Trasi-Maravanthe, Kodi-Kundapura Beach and Barkur Fort in Udupi district, along with Kodikal and Tannirbhavi Beach in Dakshina Kannada. The projects are planned under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the government moving ahead with the necessary advisory and implementation framework.
As part of the initiative, IPE Global has been appointed as the Programme Management Unit (PMU) to support sustainable development and tourism promotion across coastal Karnataka. Ernst & Young LLP (EY) has been appointed as the transaction adviser for developing the five identified destinations through the PPP model.
The development forms part of Karnataka’s broader Coastal and Malnad Karnataka Tourism Policy, which seeks to create high-quality tourism destinations supported by world-class facilities and responsible tourism practices.
Speaking on the government’s plans, MLC Ivan D’Souza said that the state is taking steps to implement the coastal and Malnad tourism policy and place greater emphasis on tourism development in the region. He highlighted the government’s plans to utilise the tourism potential of Karnataka’s coastal districts through an Integrated Coastal Tourism Development Project.
The proposed integrated project will also explore improved connectivity to coastal destinations through seaplanes and heli-taxis, in collaboration with aviation and water-adventure tourism stakeholders. The plans further include promoting joy rides and river cruise activities to diversify the experiences available to visitors.
The government’s coastal tourism strategy extends beyond the five initial PPP locations and covers a wider geographical area across Karnataka. The Coastal and Malnad Karnataka Tourism Policy encompasses districts including Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga and Hassan, along with identified taluks within these districts.
The state is also looking to leverage opportunities in adventure water sports and coastal tourism, alongside the development of roadside amenities and highway hubs to improve the overall travel experience and strengthen tourism infrastructure.
The planned projects are expected to create opportunities for greater private-sector participation in Karnataka’s tourism sector while supporting destination development, infrastructure investment and the creation of new tourism experiences.
With the government focusing on sustainable development, improved connectivity, adventure tourism and enhanced visitor facilities, the initiative is expected to strengthen coastal Karnataka’s position as a competitive tourism region and open up new opportunities for the travel and hospitality industry.
