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Karnataka International Travel Expo - LogoThe Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) is poised to return for its second edition, promising an unparalleled platform for global travel trade professionals. Scheduled from February 26-28, 2025, in Bengaluru, the highly anticipated event will showcase Karnataka’s tourism potential, spanning heritage, adventure, culture, and wellness.

KITE 2025, organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with the Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), aims to position Karnataka as a leading international travel destination. This premier B2B networking event will bring together over 400 hosted buyers worldwide and feature more than 150 tourism stakeholders from Karnataka.

Karnataka’s Vision for Global Tourism Leadership

Unveiling the event’s official logo and promotional materials at a curtain-raiser ceremony at Vidhana Soudha, Sri H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, emphasized the event’s significance:

“The Karnataka International Travel Expo underscores our unwavering commitment to positioning Karnataka as a world-class tourism destination. Our rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and adventure opportunities make our state uniquely attractive to global travelers.”

Other dignitaries present at the event included Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary of Karnataka, Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, and Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation.

Key Highlights of KITE 2025

1. B2B Networking & Trade Partnerships

  • Over 10,000 scheduled B2B meetings connecting buyers and sellers
  • Engagements with leading hospitality chains, tour operators, and travel agencies

2. Showcasing Karnataka’s Unique Travel Experiences

  • Exclusive pavilions featuring heritage, nature, wellness, and adventure tourism
  • Special focus on sustainable tourism initiatives

3. Global Participation & Industry Support

  • Backing from major trade associations: IATO, ADTOI, ATOAI, TAAI, FHRAI, TAFI, and SIHRA
  • Participation from national and international tourism boards

4. Cultural & Entertainment Extravaganza

  • Evenings filled with traditional music, dance, and Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage

5. Exclusive Familiarization (FAM) Tours

  • Pre- and post-event destination showcases, including visits to Hampi, Coorg, Kabini, Mysuru, and Badami

Karnataka’s Global Tourism Roadmap: A Strategic Investment

1. Strengthening Karnataka’s Brand as a Travel Hub

  • Establishing Karnataka as a preferred destination for leisure, business, and adventure tourism
  • Attracting investment in tourism infrastructure to enhance the traveller experience

2. Driving Economic Growth & Employment

  • Increased visitor footfall leads to higher revenue for local businesses
  • Expanding job opportunities, particularly in rural and semi-urban tourism hotspots

3. Boosting Awareness of Lesser-Known Destinations

  • Diversifying Karnataka’s tourism landscape by promoting offbeat locations
  • Enhancing sustainability efforts by reducing pressure on overcrowded tourist spots

Karnataka Tourism’s Commitment to a Sustainable Future

Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, highlighted the larger vision behind KITE 2025:

“The Karnataka International Travel Expo is more than an event; it is a catalyst for sustainable tourism growth. Through strategic partnerships and innovation, we are creating a future where tourism benefits both local communities and global travelers.”

Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, added:

“We welcome travel stakeholders from across the world to experience Karnataka’s unparalleled tourism offerings. KITE 2025 will play a pivotal role in forging meaningful industry relationships and elevating Karnataka’s presence on the global tourism stage.”

Event Details & Participation Information

KITE 2025 is open to tourism boards, travel agencies, hospitality groups, adventure tourism providers, and investors eager to explore Karnataka’s thriving tourism sector. Industry professionals are encouraged to register early to secure their participation in this transformative event.

About Karnataka Tourism Karnataka, known as “One State, Many Worlds”, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure experiences. Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wildlife sanctuaries, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities, the state continues attracting millions of visitors yearly.

Through initiatives like KITE 2025, Karnataka aims to strengthen its global tourism footprint while ensuring long-term sustainability and economic benefits for its communities.

For more details and registrations, visit www.karnatakatravelexpo.org.

 

 

 

Written by: Madhura Katti

 

 

 

 

 

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