Karnataka aims top-5 spot in international tourist visits by 2029: H K Patil

Bengaluru: The Department of Tourism hosted the first edition of the Karnataka Centre for Cultural Diplomacy (KCCD) Conclave at the Vidhana Soudha on Friday.

Aimed at improving Karnataka’s tourism and international engagement, the conclave brought together heads of diplomatic missions, senior government leaders and global tourism stakeholders.

Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation and Tourism H K Patil reiterated Karnataka’s ambitious goals under the Tourism Policy 2024–29, which focuses on global positioning, sustainable development, safety and security and spreading tourism-led prosperity to every district of the state. 

“We are committed to positioning Karnataka among the top five states for international tourist visits by 2029,” he said, inviting diplomatic missions to collaborate through exchanges, cultural showcases, and youth engagement programs.

Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh emphasised Karnataka’s growing global stature and its vision to position tourism as a gateway to international ties. 

“The government of Karnataka views tourism not merely as an economic activity but as a core component of our global outreach and soft power. This conclave marks a decisive step in positioning Karnataka as a globally admired and culturally vibrant destination,” she stated.

Highlighting Bengaluru’s emergence as the Global Capability Centre (GCC) Capital of the World, the chief secretary noted that tourism naturally follows trade and investment, and the “state is strategically converting business visits into immersive travel opportunities.”

She outlined the state’s priority on MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism, world-class connectivity, safety and experiential tourism.