Karnataka unveils a ₹1,260 Cr roadmap for coastal tourism. Discover “Brand Karavali,” new CRZ reforms, and the launch of the revamped tourism website.
The Government of Karnataka has marked a decisive turning point for the state’s coastal economy, unveiling a comprehensive roadmap to transform the region into a world-class tourism destination. The “Coastal Karnataka Tourism Conclave,” held on January 10, 2026, at Hotel Avatar & Convention in Mangaluru, witnessed an unprecedented gathering of the state’s highest leadership to unlock the tourism potential of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada.
Uniting for Economic Transformation
The event brought together a high-level delegation led by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Siddaramaiah and Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Shri D.K. Shivakumar, alongside Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri H.K. Patil and Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Shri U.T. Khader. They were joined by District In-Charge Ministers and legislators from the coastal belt.
The Conclave underscored the government’s determination to turn the 320-kilometer coastline into an engine of economic growth. This commitment was solidified with the execution of MoUs for 31 tourism projects across the three coastal districts, representing an estimated investment of INR 1,260 Crores. Furthermore, the Department of Tourism highlighted that since June 2023, approvals have been accorded for 45 tourism projects, attracting over INR 718 Crore in investments and adding more than 1,500 high-quality rooms.
Chief Minister Shri Siddaramaiah emphasized the human impact, stating, “Today is not just about signing papers; it is about creating livelihoods. The investments pledged today will translate into thousands of jobs for our local youth. We are committed to a model of development where the fisherman, the homestay owner, and the auto driver are partners in growth”.
Breaking Bottlenecks: CRZ and Infrastructure
A central theme of the deliberations was the regulatory framework, specifically the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms, often cited by investors as a bottleneck. The government assured stakeholders of a streamlined, transparent approach, noting significant scope for seeking amendments to the CRZ notification.
Addressing the investors, Deputy Chief Minister Shri D.K. Shivakumar stated, “The days of running from pillar to post are over. We are establishing single-window mechanisms for tourism projects to ensure timebound approvals. We are also creating a Tourism Land Bank to offer investors ready-to-develop parcels”.
Connectivity was identified as the backbone of this transformation, with leaders discussing a multi-modal strategy. Priorities include the upgradation of Mangaluru International Airport to attract direct international flights and the development of a dedicated coastal road corridor with scenic beach-side roads.
A Distinct Identity: “Brand Karavali”
The conclave moved away from a “cut-and-paste” development model. Hon’ble Minister for Health and Dakshina Kannada District In-Charge, Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, asserted, “We don’t have to follow the model of Goa or Kerala. We can create our own model”. The strategy involves creating Special Tourism Zones anchored by major units to prevent haphazard construction.
The event also shone a spotlight on niche tourism, including surfing, scuba diving, and cruises, highlighting destinations like Sasihithlu, Nethrani, and Dandeli. Tourism Minister Shri H.K. Patil noted, “We have the product, now we need the packaging,” emphasizing the need for strategic marketing to define “Brand Karavali”.
Digital Leap: Launch of Revamped Website
During the event, the Department and Hon’ble Ministers officially launched the revamped Karnataka Tourism website (Karnatakatourism.org). The initiative received a positive response, with the dignitaries appreciating the platform as a significant step forward in modernizing the state’s tourism outreach.
The Coastal Tourism Conclave 2026 has set a new benchmark for government-industry collaboration in Karnataka. With high-level political will, substantial financial commitments, and a focus on regulatory reform, the state is poised to unlock the full potential of its coast. As the government invites the world to experience the unique culture and nature of the region, the clear message remains: Karnataka is ready to facilitate those with the will to invest.