Manchester: Karnataka Tourism has held its first-ever roadshow in Manchester, making the city a new source market for travellers to the state, the department said on Tuesday. More than 50 travel agents and tour operators took part, and the aim was to build direct business links with the UK travel trade and get operators to include Karnataka in new India itineraries.
What was on offer
- Coastal Karnataka and the Malnad region were a major focus, with beaches, the Western Ghats, plantation landscapes, nature-based experiences and lesser-known destinations.
- Coffee tourism in Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu was showcased, combining plantation stays, local cuisine, nature and slow travel.
- The roadshow also presented the state’s heritage, wildlife, wellness, luxury and business tourism offerings.
Tourism Secretary Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar, KSTDC Managing Director Shivaprasad P.R., Jungle Lodges and Resorts Managing Director Sivaram Babu M., IFS, and Joint Director of Tourism Janardhan S.P. interacted with the travel trade and presented the opportunities.
“Manchester is an important new outreach market for Karnataka. Our objective is not merely to create destination visibility, but to convert trade interest into actual Karnataka itineraries and visitor arrivals,” Ram Prasath Manohar said, adding that the outreach is being taken forward under Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George.
Wider UK campaign
Consul General of India Vishakha Yaduvanshi attended the roadshow and extended support to the outreach. The Manchester event is part of a wider UK campaign that will continue through World Travel Market London 2026 and a dedicated roadshow in Birmingham.
About the Author
