At the prestigious ITB Berlin 2025, the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) took center stage to unveil its strategic tourism roadmap for 2025–2026. In an exclusive interview, Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC), shared compelling insights into how Karnataka is aligning with global travel trends, enhancing tourism infrastructure, and tapping into European and South Asian markets to elevate its position as a premier tourism destination in India.

First Time at ITB Berlin: A World of Opportunities

For Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC), ITB Berlin 2025 marked his first participation in the world’s largest travel trade show, and the experience was nothing short of exhilarating. With over 12,000 exhibitors from across the globe, ITB Berlin provides an unparalleled platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing within the travel industry.

“It’s one of the biggest travel markets in the entire world. I’m thrilled with the organization, the interaction, and the exposure to global tourism boards,” he shared enthusiastically.

Karnataka: A Microcosm of India’s Tourism Diversity

Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) emphasized that Karnataka is like a microcosm of the Indian subcontinent, offering everything from heritage and culture to adventure, wildlife, beaches, hill stations, and religious sites. The state is positioning itself as a holistic tourism product, suitable for global explorers, cultural enthusiasts, and experiential travelers alike.

With six well-connected airports, domestic air connectivity, and coastal cruise tourism opportunities, Karnataka is truly opening doors for visitors seeking immersive exploration.

Focusing on International Market Outreach

At ITB Berlin 2025, Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) focused on strategic tourism marketing toward Europe and South Asia, identifying these regions as high-potential markets. Dr. Rajendra elaborated that Karnataka shares colonial and cultural connections with several European nations, especially the UK and France, which are being leveraged to promote heritage circuits and experiential travel packages.

“We’re targeting low-hanging fruits initially – markets with historical and cultural ties. This includes Europe and South Asia, and we’re planning customized promotions,” Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) said.

Tourism Infrastructure Gets a Boost

One of the highlights of Karnataka’s tourism development strategy is substantial investment in infrastructure. Supported by both the Karnataka Government and Government of India, key initiatives include:

  • Upgradation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hampi, Pattadakal, and Badami
  • Improved last-mile connectivity and digital tourism tools
  • Eco-friendly tourism development in hill stations and coastal regions

Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) emphasized that these improvements are designed to provide international travelers with comfortable, seamless, and memorable tourism experiences.

Positioning Bengaluru as a Global Gateway

Bengaluru, Karnataka’s capital city, is also being highlighted as a gateway for international tourism. Known as India’s Silicon Valley, it enjoys a unique position in global connectivity due to its IT sister city relationships with cities like San Francisco. The city is not only a business hub but also a cultural melting pot that can serve as a perfect base for tourists exploring southern India.

Karnataka’s Unique Offerings for Global Travelers

Karnataka’s travel offerings are diverse and designed to appeal to a wide range of traveler preferences. These include:

  • Cultural and spiritual tourism – Temples of Belur, Halebidu, Shravanabelagola
  • Wildlife and eco-tourism – Bandipur, Kabini, Nagarhole National Parks
  • Adventure tourism – Trekking in the Western Ghats, river rafting, beach camping
  • Cruise tourism – Upcoming coastal and inland waterway cruise circuits

Heritage Tourism: A Core Focus Area

Karnataka is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with more in the pipeline for nomination. The tourism board is ensuring that international visitors have easy access to these heritage marvels with multilingual guides, audio tours, cultural performances, and sustainable tourism practices.

“European travelers love learning history. With improved infrastructure and storytelling, we’re making our heritage sites more accessible and engaging,” Dr. Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) noted.

Digital Transformation and Sustainable Tourism

KSTDC is also embracing digital tourism, with initiatives for online bookings, digital tour guides, and interactive travel planning platforms. Parallelly, the state is investing in sustainable tourism practices, focusing on eco-friendly accommodations, plastic-free zones, and responsible tourism certification for stakeholders.

Vision for the Future

Karnataka Tourism envisions a future where global travelers explore offbeat destinations, experience local culture, and contribute to community-based tourism. With increasing international air connectivity, digital innovation, and heritage-based experiences, Karnataka is preparing to welcome travelers from across the world.

“Whether it’s for leisure, culture, spirituality, or adventure – Karnataka offers it all. Our goal is to deliver world-class experiences rooted in Indian culture,” Dr. Rajendra K.V., IAS, Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) concluded.

The post Karnataka Showcases Heritage, Innovation, and Global Tourism Vision at ITB Berlin 2025 with Strategic Market Expansion and Cultural Promotion appeared first on Travel And Tour World.