Karnataka’s Ambitious Coastal Tourism Plan Will Transform Its Three Hundred And Twenty Kilometers Coastline Into Premier Destinations With Resorts, Luxury Hotels, And Heritage Sites To Attract Global Tourists

Published on October 13, 2025

Karnataka’s Three Hundred and Twenty Coastline will become a world class destination with world class resorts and luxury hotels and preservation of its heritage sites. In addition to upscale tourism structures, a wide range of high margin, eco-sensitive tourism products will be available for Karnataka’s tourism for high end global eco-sensitive tourism. Karnataka will ensure environmental and economic sustainability, and will, upscale its tourism from a local to an international level, with its coastline and heritage for targeted high end international eco-sensitive tourism capacitating its coastline to be a tourism hotspot in the world.

Karnataka, known for its rich cultural heritage and lush landscapes, is now turning its attention to an often-overlooked asset – its coastline. Stretching over 320 kilometers across three vibrant districts—Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, and Udupi—the state is poised to tap into a goldmine of coastal tourism potential.

Two years ago, the government announced plans to establish a Coastal Tourism Development Board, and recent developments indicate that the initiative is gaining significant momentum. With the announcement of a forthcoming coastal tourism policy and the official setup of the tourism board, the stage is set for a transformation in Karnataka’s tourism sector. This strategy promises not only to attract more visitors but also to create a sustainable, well-regulated tourism ecosystem.

A Vision for Sustainable Coastal Tourism

The government’s vision for coastal tourism revolves around a carefully planned and sustainable model that balances environmental preservation with economic growth. The untapped coastal stretch is seen as a high-priority area, representing a significant opportunity for development that could elevate Karnataka’s tourism status to new heights.

A central feature of this initiative is the formation of a Programme Management Unit (PMU), which will oversee and guide the implementation of the coastal tourism projects. The PMU will work closely with a leading consultancy firm, ensuring that the program is managed effectively and in line with international best practices.

Public-Private Partnerships Driving Development

In an effort to bring these plans to life, five prime locations have been identified for development under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. These sites are strategically chosen for their unique appeal and tourism potential. Among them are some of Karnataka’s most pristine beaches and heritage sites, including Trasi Maravanthe Beach, Kodi Kundapura Beach, and Barkur Fort in Udupi district. The initiative will also focus on the rejuvenation of Kodikal and Thannirbavi Blue Flag Beach in Dakshina Kannada.

Each of these sites will be developed with high-end resorts, luxury hotels, and multi-product tourism zones. The aim is to provide tourists with a range of experiences that appeal to both luxury travelers and adventure enthusiasts. This holistic approach to tourism is set to create a vibrant and diverse tourism landscape along the Karnataka coast.

Additionally, the government is consulting with specialized agencies to develop and maintain the Someshwara and Panambur beaches near Mangaluru. The focus here will be on improving infrastructure and services to meet international standards while preserving the natural beauty of the beaches.

Creating Goa-Comparable Beach Experiences

One of the key goals of the project is to offer a beach experience that rivals those of Goa, India’s most famous coastal destination. This includes the establishment of beach shacks at prominent locations to cater to visitors seeking an authentic beach experience. These shacks will offer a variety of local cuisine, refreshments, and beach activities, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The government is also keen to involve local stakeholders in the development process to ensure that the benefits of tourism trickle down to the communities. By creating a structured approach to coastal tourism, local economies will be bolstered through job creation and improved infrastructure, while preserving the natural environment that makes Karnataka’s coastline so special.

A Promising Future for Karnataka’s Coastal Tourism

As the plan unfolds, Karnataka’s coastline is set to become a prime destination for both domestic and international tourists. By leveraging its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the state is positioning itself as a leading player in the coastal tourism sector.

With the right combination of public and private sector collaboration, investment in infrastructure, and a focus on sustainable practices, Karnataka’s coastal tourism can soon be on par with the best coastal destinations in India. As the state moves forward with the Coastal Tourism Development Board and its related initiatives, it is poised to unlock a new chapter in its tourism journey, offering travelers an unforgettable experience along its serene and picturesque coastline.

Karnataka’s coastal tourism plan aims to develop the state’s entire three hundred twenty (320) kilmeters stretch of Sandy Beaches into Luxury Resorts, Heritage sites, and top-tier hotels targeting sustainable tourism growth to attract international visitors while maintaining the coastal beauty.

Tourism development in Karnataka is integrating the strategic development of the state’s tourism portfolio. Sustainable growth of the coastal tourism business of Karnataka is the focus on the development of the state’s tourism portfolio. Integrated development on a few identified destinations with various attraction and activities is set to position Karnataka as one of the top coastal tourism destinations in the country. The next few years will significantly shape the future development of coastal tourism in the state.