Karnataka International Travel Expo 2025 Kicks Off in Bengaluru, Promoting Karnataka as a Global Tourism Hub
Bengaluru, 27th February 2025: Karnataka Tourism has inaugurated the second edition of the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) 2025 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Center. This prestigious event brings together over 120 sellers and exhibitors from Karnataka’s tourism sector, including travel agents, tour operators, resorts, homestays, and other service providers. With 200 hosted buyers from 30 countries, KITE 2025 aims to foster business opportunities and establish Karnataka as a premier global travel destination.
With over 15,000 business meetings scheduled, KITE 2025 is set to drive impactful collaborations, benefiting Karnataka’s tourism stakeholders. Karnataka Tourism remains committed to making the state one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, focusing on promoting emerging tourist circuits alongside its well-established attractions.
Grand Inauguration
The Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) 2025 was officially inaugurated by Sri H. K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law & Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, alongside Smt. Salma K. Fahim IAS, Secretary to Government, Tourism and Minority Welfare, Haj and Waqf Department, Government of Karnataka, Rajendra K.V IAS, Director of the Department of Tourism and Managing Director of KSTDC, and Mr. Shamraju, President of Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS). Several dignitaries, office bearers, and industry leaders were also present at the occasion.
Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with the Karnataka Tourism Society, KITE 2025 serves as a dynamic platform to unite stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality industries. The event aims to facilitate partnerships, boost business opportunities, and highlight Karnataka’s diverse tourism offerings—including heritage, culture, adventure, wellness, and nature-based tourism.
Key Highlights of KITE 2025:
- B2B Networking: Over 400 hosted buyers from India and international markets engage with more than 150 Karnataka-based stakeholders, ensuring productive interactions for the travel trade industry.
- Showcasing Karnataka’s Treasures: Dedicated pavilions spotlight Karnataka’s iconic attractions, emerging destinations, and sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Cultural Extravaganza: Evening programs celebrate Karnataka’s rich heritage through art, music, and cuisine.
Participation from Leading Trade and Hospitality Associations
KITE 2025 enjoys the support of several major national and state-level trade and hospitality associations, including:
- Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI)
- Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI)
- Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI)
- Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO)
- Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI)
- Karnataka Tourism Forum
- Enterprising Agents Association of India (ETAA)
- South India Hotel and Restaurant Association (SIHRA)
- Travel Agent Federation of India (TAFI), among others.
Why KITE 2025 Matters for Karnataka Tourism?
- Enhancing Global Visibility
- KITE 2025 showcases Karnataka’s diverse tourism offerings, from heritage sites to adventure and wellness tourism.
- Hosted buyers from international markets serve as ambassadors, promoting Karnataka in their respective countries.
- Facilitating Business Opportunities
- The expo fosters B2B networking, creating meaningful partnerships that drive tourism growth.
- Small and medium tourism enterprises gain global exposure, expanding their reach.
- Boosting Tourism Revenue and Employment
- Increased visitor numbers contribute to higher spending on accommodations, dining, and local attractions.
- The tourism industry’s growth generates employment opportunities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
- Promoting Lesser-Known Destinations
- KITE 2025 introduces offbeat destinations and new travel circuits, diversifying tourism offerings.
- Sustainable tourism initiatives ensure balanced economic growth and conservation of Karnataka’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Strengthening Karnataka’s Brand as a Travel Hub
- KITE 2025 positions Karnataka as a preferred destination for both leisure and business travellers.
- Increased visibility attracts investments in tourism infrastructure, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
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Exclusive Features of KITE 2025
- India’s Biggest Hosted Buyer Travel Event
- Over 10,000 B2B Appointments via Online Scheduling
- Showcasing 20+ Tourism Segments: Adventure & Wildlife, Heritage Tourism, Business Travel, Pilgrimage, Karnataka’s Festivals, World Heritage Sites, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions), and more.
- 150 Exhibitors representing Karnataka’s diverse tourism products.
- Pre and Post-Event Familiarization Tours, covering major destinations like Hampi, Coorg, Kabini, Mysore, Chikmagalur, Mangaluru, Badami, and Pattadakal.
For more information and registration details, visit: www.karnatakatravelexpo.org
About Karnataka Tourism
Karnataka Tourism is dedicated to showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage, wildlife sanctuaries, pristine beaches, and architectural marvels to domestic and international travellers. The state is famed for its silk, coffee, honey, and traditional crafts, all of which are exhibited through 25 boutique stalls at KITE 2025, highlighting Karnataka’s handicrafts, cuisines, and tourism circuits. Iconic specialities such as Mysuru silk, Dharwad Kasuthi, Bidriware, Sandalwood articles, and Channapatna toys take centre stage.
About Karnataka Tourism Society
The Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS) is committed to developing Karnataka into a vibrant and sustainable tourism destination by preserving its cultural heritage and supporting local communities. Through collaboration with key stakeholders, KTS aims to promote Karnataka as a top travel destination, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors while contributing to economic and social development.
The Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) 2025 is a transformative event that positions Karnataka as a key player in the global tourism landscape. By fostering collaborations, promoting lesser-known destinations, and driving economic growth, KITE 2025 reinforces Karnataka’s commitment to sustainable tourism development. As the event unfolds, it is set to create lasting partnerships and unlock new opportunities for both domestic and international stakeholders, paving the way for a thriving tourism sector in the state.
