Karnataka is witnessing an unprecedented surge in tourism and hospitality, with the sector contributing approximately Rs 25,000 crore to the state’s economy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Thursday. Speaking at the inauguration of the 55th Annual Convention of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) in Bengaluru, the Chief Minister highlighted the state’s rising domestic and international tourist inflows, job creation, and global reputation in hospitality.
According to Siddaramaiah, domestic tourist footfall in Karnataka reached 30.46 crore in 2024, building on a strong 58% increase since 2022. He noted that the consistent growth highlights the resilience and appeal of the state’s destinations. “This sustained momentum is also matched by a robust recovery in international travel, which is further boosting Karnataka’s global visibility,” the Chief Minister said.
The rise in tourism has translated into over 12 lakh direct and indirect jobs, empowering families across urban and rural regions. “The hospitality sector alone contributes Rs 25,000 crore, making it a cornerstone of Karnataka’s prosperity,” Siddaramaiah stressed.
Bengaluru: A global hub for MICE tourism
Karnataka’s capital, Bengaluru, has firmly established itself as one of India’s premier destinations for MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). Hosting nearly 15% of India’s total MICE events, Bengaluru has become a preferred hub for global corporate gatherings and international exhibitions.
Eco-tourism initiatives across Karnataka have also recorded a 20% growth, underlining the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism. To further strengthen visitor experiences, the government has launched the Pravasi Mitra programme, under which 1,000 tourist facilitators are being trained to serve as guides and cultural ambassadors.
Siddaramaiah also outlined plans to skill 50,000 youth by 2026 for hospitality sector roles. “We are building a workforce that meets global standards and positions Karnataka as a top-tier tourism destination,” he added.
Central government’s vision for tourism
Union Minister for Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who attended the event, emphasized the importance of tourism to India’s economy. He said the Centre’s priority is to place India among the world’s top five tourism economies.
“I can say with pride that India is among the select few countries that have surpassed pre-pandemic levels of inbound tourists. With a rapidly growing middle-income group and expanding disposable incomes, the tourism industry has a strong foundation for growth,” Shekhawat remarked.
India’s travel and tourism sector outlook
According to data shared by FHRAI, India’s travel and tourism sector contributed Rs 20.9 trillion to GDP in 2024, accounting for 6.6% of the national economy. This marked a 20% rise compared to 2019. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects this figure will reach Rs 22.5 trillion in 2025, and by 2035, the sector could almost double to Rs 41.9 trillion, representing nearly 10.9% of GDP.
Such rapid growth underscores India’s potential as a global tourism leader, with Karnataka playing a central role in attracting both domestic and international travelers.
Karnataka’s role in national tourism growth
Karnataka’s contribution to the country’s tourism growth goes beyond numbers. Its diverse offerings—from heritage sites like Hampi and Mysuru to eco-tourism destinations such as Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Kabini—make it a unique draw for tourists. The state’s investment in infrastructure, coupled with Bengaluru’s position as a corporate and cultural hub, strengthens Karnataka’s role in India’s tourism economy.
Industry experts believe that initiatives like skilling programmes, eco-tourism expansion, and digital innovations in hospitality will further enhance Karnataka’s competitive edge. Moreover, collaborations between state tourism authorities and private players are expected to drive innovation in service quality and visitor engagement.
Challenges and opportunities ahead
Despite the positive outlook, Karnataka faces challenges in sustaining its tourism momentum. Infrastructure bottlenecks, environmental concerns, and the need for improved connectivity in rural tourist destinations remain key issues. Experts point out that balancing economic growth with sustainable practices will be vital for the state’s long-term tourism strategy.
However, the opportunities far outweigh the hurdles. With increased government focus, rising disposable incomes, and growing global recognition, Karnataka is well-positioned to become one of India’s top tourism-driven economies.
The Karnataka hospitality and tourism sector has emerged as a vital driver of economic growth, contributing Rs 25,000 crore annually and creating over 12 lakh jobs. From domestic tourism surges to Bengaluru’s rise as a MICE hub, the state is solidifying its place on the global tourism map. Backed by state and central government initiatives, Karnataka is poised to play a central role in India’s journey toward becoming one of the world’s leading tourism economies.
