Karnataka to Unveil Coastal–Malnad Tourism Policy 2026; Cruise Tourism, Blue Flag Beaches and Global Tourist Experience in Focus
Bengaluru, July 3: The Karnataka Government is preparing a comprehensive Coastal–Malnad Karnataka Tourism Policy 2026 with a strong focus on cruise tourism, beach tourism, theme-based tourism circuits and world-class visitor infrastructure to position the state as one of India’s premier tourism destinations.
Chairing a high-level review meeting with senior Tourism Department officials at Vidhana Soudha, Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George directed officials to formulate a forward-looking tourism policy that unlocks the tourism potential of Karnataka’s coastal and Malnad regions while creating international-standard facilities for visitors.
The Minister said the proposed policy should comprehensively develop tourism across the six districts of Coastal and Malnad Karnataka, with special emphasis on theme-based tourism circuits, beach tourism, cruise tourism, adventure activities and initiatives that generate employment and strengthen local economies.
Special Push for Cruise Tourism
One of the key priorities of the proposed policy is to transform Karnataka into a major cruise tourism destination by attracting more international cruise liners to ports, particularly Mangaluru Port.
K.J. George instructed officials to develop attractive tourism circuits and holiday packages that encourage international cruise passengers to spend more time in Karnataka instead of making only brief stopovers.
He also directed the department to hold consultations with leading cruise operators and incorporate their suggestions and expectations into the new tourism policy to improve Karnataka’s competitiveness in the global cruise tourism market.
Blue Flag Beaches and World-Class Coastal Tourism
The Minister stressed that the policy should significantly strengthen Karnataka’s beach tourism sector by promoting:
- Development of Blue Flag beaches
- Improved cleanliness and environmental standards
- Enhanced tourist safety
- Modern visitor amenities
- Water sports facilities
- Adventure tourism
- High-quality coastal tourism experiences
According to the Minister, these initiatives will help Karnataka compete with leading coastal tourism destinations in India and abroad.
Better Infrastructure at Tourist Destinations
K.J. George also instructed officials to upgrade tourism infrastructure at destinations managed by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) and Jungle Lodges & Resorts (JLR).
The improvements will include:
- Better accommodation facilities
- Modern tourist amenities
- Improved sanitation and cleanliness
- Enhanced visitor information systems
- Expanded tourist services
- Overall improvement in visitor experience
Karnataka Aims for Global Tourism Recognition
Emphasising the government’s broader vision, the Minister said tourism is not merely about developing tourist attractions but about creating a complete ecosystem that offers visitors a world-class experience.
“Tourism is not just about creating destinations. It is about providing a seamless, world-class experience to every visitor. With quality infrastructure, better connectivity, safety and high standards of service, Karnataka can secure a prominent place on the global tourism map,” K.J. George said.
The review meeting was attended by Tourism Department Secretary Trilok Chandra, Tourism Commissioner Dr. V. Ram Prasath Manohar, and senior officials from KSTDC and Jungle Lodges & Resorts.
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