News: The Karnataka Tourism Department launched the 'Active Karnataka - Run, Ride, Surf and Explore' initiative on the occasion of World Tourism Day.
ABOUT
- Launched by Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George.
- Aim: Connect major sporting events in the State with tourism experiences, create new visitor experiences, and generate opportunities to improve the local economy.
- Phase 1 links marathons, cycling events, triathlons, and other endurance events with nearby tourism destinations like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Malnad, Coastal Karnataka, Gokarna, and Hampi.
- Phase 2 brings surfing, kayaking, water sports, trail running, cycling, and other adventure activities under a State-wide sports and adventure tourism calendar.
Key Targets
- Partner with organizations like NEB Sports to develop and promote marathons, cyclathons, and triathlon events (such as the L'Étape cycling series starting in Mysuru on October 4).
- Create 2-to-3-day destination itineraries including Bengaluru, Mysuru, coastal regions, and other destinations to boost local economies and increase employment through hotels, tour guides, and taxi operators.
- Institute 35 awards across five categories for the Karnataka Tourism Awards 2026, evaluated from over 160 nominations across 31 districts.
SIGNIFICANCE
- Capitalizes on vacant lodges and hotels during non-peak times (such as outside of Dasara in Mysuru), increasing stays to more than a day.
- Encourages participants and their families to experience various tourism options in Karnataka rather than returning home immediately after competing.
- Boosts hotel industry revenues, local cuisine, heritage culture, and overall employment opportunities.