The Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka in association with the Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), has officially announced the launch of the maiden Karnataka Tourism Awards 2026.
This landmark initiative marks the first time Karnataka will institute a state‑level awards platform dedicated exclusively to recognizing excellence across the tourism ecosystem. The awards aim to spotlight organizations and individuals who have contributed significantly to the growth, innovation, and sustainability of tourism across all 31 districts of Karnataka.
Institutionalized under the state’s iconic brand ethos, “One State, Many Worlds”, the Karnataka Tourism Awards will feature 35 Awards across 5 Core Verticals:
Accommodation & Hospitality – Hotels, resorts, boutique stays, heritage properties, restaurants, and service excellence.
Tour Operators & Travel Agents – Domestic and inbound operators, adventure specialists, transport providers, MICE agencies, and innovative travel services.
Events, Venues & Infrastructure – Heritage monuments, museums, wedding venues, and tourism‑friendly event spaces.
Education, Publications & Individuals – Guides, naturalists, institutes, startups, technology leaders, writers, and lifetime achievers.
Sustainability & Rural Tourism – Homestays, rural tourism projects, and civic management of tourist destinations.
Each award category has been carefully designed to reflect the diverse strengths of Karnataka’s tourism sector, from luxury hospitality to grassroots community initiatives.
Transparent Evaluation Process
The evaluation will be conducted by an independent Screening Committee comprising industry stalwarts, domain experts, and state representatives. Entries will be assessed through a transparent scoring matrix measuring:
Operational quality and service benchmarks
Guest satisfaction and feedback
Innovation and originality in offerings
Commitment to environmental sustainability
Contribution to community development
This rigorous process ensures credibility, fairness, and recognition based purely on merit.
Shri K.J. George, Hon’ble Minister for Energy and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, said: “Tourism is one of Karnataka’s greatest strengths, built on the dedication of our operators, hoteliers, and community stakeholders. The Karnataka Tourism Awards are a vital benchmark initiative that celebrates excellence across our hospitality ecosystem while setting new standards for service, sustainability, and innovation. By recognizing the best in our industry, these awards will inspire every participant to raise the bar and strengthen our global positioning. In line with our brand ethos of ‘One State. Many Worlds.’, this initiative will showcase Karnataka’s diversity to the world and ensure our state continues to shine as a world‑class destination.
Shri K. Syama Raju, President of the Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), stated: “The travel and hospitality fraternity has long been the driving force behind Karnataka’s tourism economy. Through this flagship initiative led by KTS, in association with the Department of Tourism, we are establishing an unbiased, merit‑based platform to accord deserving trade pioneers the recognition they merit while elevating service benchmarks statewide.”
Key Timelines & Submission Details
Official Web Portal: www.karnatakatourismawards.com
Nomination Deadline: 17th September 2026 (23:59 IST)
Grand Award Ceremony: 27th September 2026 (World Tourism Day), Bengaluru
All eligible hoteliers, tour operators, registered homestay hosts, mobility providers, and travel‑tech innovators are invited to submit their nominations online via the official portal.
