Karnataka has identified Hampi, Mysuru, and Lakkundi as the three historical and cultural destinations to be recommended to the Ministry of Tourism under the ‘Global Destination Development’ project. The proposal forms part of the Centre’s programme to develop 50 global tourist destinations across the country. After examining the comprehensive proposal submitted by the state government, the ministry would finalise the destinations to be developed under the project. The union government will select one destination in each state of the country under this project.
If selected, the destinations are expected to receive total central assistance of Rs 800 crore, comprising Rs 500 crore in the first phase and Rs 300 crore in the second phase. Complementing central support, the state intends to attract additional investment through public-private partnerships, thereby transforming the selected sites into world-class tourism destinations.
Comprehensive Action Plan
The proposal prepared by Karnataka is based on the historical, cultural, and tourism potential of Hampi, Mysuru, and Lakkundi. It gives priority to world-class infrastructure, improved tourist experience, connectivity, heritage conservation, sustainable development, and private sector investment. The larger objective is to position Karnataka as a leading international tourism destination and build a globally competitive tourism ecosystem.
A state-level consultation workshop held at Hampi served as the platform for preparing the future roadmap. The workshop brought together the representatives of government departments, tourism experts, investors, the hospitality industry, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation, Jungle Lodges & Resorts, and other stakeholders. Discussions were focused on infrastructure development, destination branding, international marketing, environmental sustainability, community participation, connectivity, visitor experience, sustainable tourism models, and private sector investment. The recommendations are expected to guide tourism development in Karnataka over the next decade.
Focus Areas for the Three Heritage Destinations
Among the proposed destinations, Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been accorded top priority for development as one of India’s premier tourism destinations. It is the erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Mysuru, recognised as Karnataka’s cultural capital, will be strengthened through modern tourism infrastructure. It is internationally recognised through Mysuru Palace and the historic Mysuru Dasara celebrations. Lakkundi, known for its Kalyana Chalukya heritage and ongoing archaeological excavations, has been identified for development as a major heritage tourism destination.
The state government is simultaneously working to secure UNESCO World Heritage Site status for Lakkundi. Situated in Gadag district, the town is recognised as an open-air museum of Chalukyan sculpture with around 100 intricately carved temples, deep wells, Jain basadis, and inscriptions, reflecting the brilliance of ancient sculpture.
Integrated Development and Connectivity
The proposed development of Hampi is based on coordination among multiple departments rather than the responsibility of a single department. The Urban Development Department, Hampi Development Authority, State Archaeological Department, and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will work together to ensure comprehensive development. A Destination Management Organisation is also under discussion to coordinate among the district administration the State Archaeology Department, and the ASI that will eliminate administrative delays and provide a single interface for investors and tourists.
Improving connectivity forms another important component of the proposal. The state plans to facilitate the expansion of the runway at Jindal Vijaynagar Airport serving Hampi, Bellary, and Hospet areas and request the Ministry of Railways to increase train services connecting major Indian cities with tourist destinations in northern and coastal Karnataka.
Several proposals have been prepared to strengthen Hampi as a heritage destination. These include a 15.4-kilometre heritage circuit covering more than 1,200 monuments, scientific documentation and digital preservation of monuments in collaboration with the ASI, redevelopment of Hampi and Bellary railway station as heritage stations, establishment of an international-standard interpretation centre and an international tourism college, and beautification of Kamalapura Lake by developing a tourism circuit around it. Suggestions have also been made for a single-window clearance system, a skill development centre for local rural youth and improved sanitation, drinking water and civic amenities in more than 30 villages surrounding Hampi.
The state government has also proposed to organise the Hampi Utsava on the model of Mysuru Dasara as a grand festival of national and international level, with the schedule and programmes to be finalised after consultation.
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