Karnataka plans to boost tourism with sea planes and virtual heritage tours

Sea Planes Set to Soar in Karnataka's Tourism

In a bid to boost tourism, Karnataka is planning some major changes with the introduction of sea planes to prime tourist destinations. The state government has announced plans to launch this service to add travel access to popular spots like Hampi, Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS), and the Almatti backwaters.

These locations, often referred to as Karnataka's "tourism gems," will become more accessible, inviting an influx of visitors. Tourism Minister HK Patil highlighted the government's commitment to promoting Karnataka's rich cultural and historical landmarks as part of this initiative.

In addition to the sea planes, the government is working on creating a multi-lingual website aimed at attracting international tourists. This platform will provide detailed information about Karnataka’s tourist destinations in various foreign languages, making it easier for travelers worldwide to explore the state. The project is being developed in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, with the goal of raising Karnataka’s global profile and encouraging foreign tourism.

At the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE), held in Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah outlined the government's plans for enhancing the state's tourism infrastructure. The event also marked the beginning of B2B meetings where industry experts discussed strategies to improve travel in Karnataka. Along with the introduction of sea planes, the government is focused on improving other transport options, including better rail and road connectivity. These developments are part of a broader effort to make Karnataka’s top tourist spots more accessible.

In another exciting move, HK Patil launched Karnataka’s first 3D virtual tour of heritage sites. This initiative includes short 3D films of 20-30 temples and other landmarks protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Through this technology, people worldwide can explore Karnataka’s cultural and historical treasures from the comfort of their homes. It provides a unique opportunity to experience the state's heritage without having to travel physically.

By integrating technology and enhancing transport options, Karnataka is creating a more seamless and enjoyable travel experience for both local and international visitors. The combination of sea planes, a multi-lingual website, and virtual tours will make Karnataka more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. These efforts will not only increase tourism but also showcase the state’s natural beauty and cultural richness to the world.