Karnataka Tourism Unveils Karnataka International Travel Expo 2025

Bengaluru, 26th February 2025: Karnataka Tourism proudly inaugurates the second edition of the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) 2025 at the prestigious Taj West End, Bengaluru. After the resounding success of its inaugural edition, KITE returns with an even grander showcase, reaffirming Karnataka’s position as a leading global tourism hub. The event, held from 26 – 28 February 2025, brings together key stakeholders from the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries to foster partnerships, promote business opportunities, and highlight Karnataka’s rich tourism offerings.

A Grand Inauguration by Esteemed Dignitaries

Sri inaugurated the event. Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Govt. of Karnataka, in the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Govt. of Karnataka, and other distinguished ministers, parliamentarians, and tourism officials. The presence of key policymakers underscores the government’s commitment to positioning Karnataka as a world-class travel destination.

KITE 2025: A Platform for Global Tourism Growth

Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and the Karnataka Tourism Society, KITE 2025 serves as a premier networking and business platform. The event focuses on Karnataka’s diverse tourism portfolio, including heritage, culture, adventure, wellness, and nature-based tourism.

Dr. Rajendra K.V, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism & Managing Director, KSTDC, highlighted the expo’s significance:

“KITE 2025 is a flagship event of Karnataka’s tourism sector, serving as a gateway to growth by connecting global travel professionals with the region’s vast opportunities.”

Smt. Salma K. Fahim, IAS, Secretary to Government, Tourism & Minority Welfare, Govt. of Karnataka, emphasized Karnataka’s tourism-driven economic potential:

“Tourism is a key contributor to Karnataka’s economy and job creation. KITE 2025 marks a milestone in our journey towards becoming a global travel hub.”

Sri. H.K Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Govt. of Karnataka, further stressed Karnataka’s commitment to seamless connectivity and accessibility for travellers:

“Our government is working tirelessly to enhance infrastructure and amenities, ensuring Karnataka emerges as a global benchmark for responsible, enriching, and inclusive tourism.”

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Chief Minister Unveils Karnataka Tourism Policy 2025-2029

During the event, Chief Minister Sri. Siddaramaiah launched the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2025-2029, inviting investors, tour operators, and industry professionals to collaborate in making Karnataka a top global travel destination.

Key Highlights of KITE 2025

✔ B2B Networking Opportunities – Over 400 hosted buyers from India and abroad and 150+ Karnataka stakeholders ensure impactful business interactions.

✔ Showcasing Karnataka’s Tourism Treasures – Dedicated pavilions highlight heritage sites, emerging circuits, and sustainable tourism initiatives.

✔ Cultural Extravaganza – Evening programs celebrate Karnataka’s music, art, and cuisine, offering attendees an immersive experience.

Major Industry Participation

KITE 2025 enjoys strong backing from major national and state-level trade and hospitality associations, including FHRAI, IATO, TAAI, ADTOI, SKAL, TAFI, SIHRA, and many more. The event provides an unparalleled platform for collaboration between Karnataka’s tourism enterprises and global travel businesses.

Why KITE 2025 is a Game-Changer for Karnataka’s Tourism

1. Enhancing Global Visibility

• Promotes Karnataka’s unique tourism offerings, from heritage sites to eco-tourism hotspots.
• Hosted buyers from international markets act as ambassadors, boosting Karnataka’s presence globally.

2. Facilitating Business Growth

• B2B networking fosters partnerships between local businesses and global tourism professionals.
• Small and medium enterprises in Karnataka gain exposure to international markets.

3. Driving Tourism Revenue & Employment

• Increased tourism boosts spending on hotels, transport, dining, and attractions, benefitting local communities.
• Creates employment opportunities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.

4. Promoting Lesser-Known Destinations

• KITE 2025 spotlights offbeat destinations like Badami, Pattadakal, Chikmagalur, and Coorg.
• Encourages sustainable tourism by reducing pressure on heavily visited sites.

5. Strengthening Karnataka’s Brand as a Global Tourism Hub

• Establishes Karnataka as a preferred destination for business and leisure.
• Attracts investment in hospitality, transport, and tourism infrastructure.

Key Features of KITE 2025

✔ India’s Biggest Hosted Buyer Travel Event

✔ 10,000+ B2B Appointments via an online scheduling system

✔ Over 20 Diverse Tourism Segments, including adventure, business travel, wellness, and heritage tourism

✔ 150+ Exhibitors showcasing Karnataka’s top destinations and tourism products

✔ Pre & Post Event Familiarization Tours to iconic locations such as Hampi, Mysuru, Coorg, Kabini, and Mangaluru

Experience Karnataka’s Diversity

Visitors to KITE 2025 will witness a magnificent showcase of Karnataka’s famed Mysuru silk, Dharwad Kasuti embroidery, sandalwood artefacts, Ganjifa paintings, spices, honey, wines, and terracotta crafts across 25 unique pavilions.

Join KITE 2025!

Participation is open to tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hospitality businesses, and investors eager to explore Karnataka’s flourishing tourism landscape.

For registration and further details, visit: www.karnatakatravelexpo.org

Karnataka Tourism is committed to promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and world-renowned architectural marvels. With its tagline ‘One State, Many Worlds’, Karnataka continues to be a sought-after destination for travellers seeking authentic and diverse experiences.

About Karnataka Tourism Society

The Karnataka Tourism Society is dedicated to developing Karnataka as a vibrant and sustainable tourism destination by preserving its cultural heritage, promoting local communities, and fostering global partnerships for long-term growth.

As Karnataka continues to shape its tourism landscape, KITE 2025 stands as a testament to its vision of becoming a premier global travel destination.