Seaplanes to Boost Karnataka Tourism: Govt Plans New Avenues for Travel
Bengaluru, Feb 28, 2025 – Karnataka is set to introduce seaplanes as part of an ambitious initiative to boost tourism in the state. Tourism Minister HK Patil announced on Thursday that the government is working on launching seaplane services to popular destinations, including Hampi, KRS, and Almatti backwaters.
The announcement came during the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE), where Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized the state’s commitment to improving tourism infrastructure. Speaking at the B2B meetings of the expo in Bengaluru, Patil highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance connectivity, including rail and road improvements, to support tourism growth.
Expanding Karnataka’s Tourism Reach
In a bid to attract both domestic and international tourists, the Karnataka government is focusing on promoting lesser-known destinations, dubbing them the ‘tourism gems’ of the state. Improved transportation and infrastructure development remain key priorities.
To strengthen Karnataka’s presence on global platforms, Patil revealed that discussions are underway with the Ministry of External Affairs to develop a multilingual website. This portal will provide information about Karnataka in various foreign languages to cater to international travelers and investors.
Embracing Technology for Heritage Promotion
In another landmark move, Karnataka has launched its first-ever 3D virtual tours of heritage destinations protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The project includes 3D short films covering 20-30 temples and historical locations, offering an immersive experience of the state’s rich cultural heritage.
With these efforts, Karnataka aims to position itself as a premier travel destination, blending technological innovation with enhanced accessibility. The introduction of seaplanes is expected to provide tourists with a unique and scenic travel experience, further strengthening Karnataka’s tourism appeal.
