Karnataka Tourism to Launch Exclusive Waterfall Tours

Quick Summary:

• Karnataka’s Tourism Department and Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) plan to introduce curated “waterfalls tour” packages by the end of august or early September, initially delayed due to heavy monsoons.
• The packages will cover lesser-known waterfalls alongside popular ones like Jog Falls and Gokak Falls, with options for customized itineraries and integration into existing KSTDC tours.
• Identified districts for destinations include Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Shivamogga, Kodagu, and Belagavi. Services such as local guides and naturalists will be part of the package.
• Bookings can currently be made via email through details found in the enquiry section of KSTDC’s website.
• Heavy monsoon weather caused delays in launching these tours due to safety concerns; destinations often become inaccessible during adverse conditions like landslides. Officials aim to ensure responsible tourism during safer times.
• Vehicles visiting Mullayanagiri peak in Chikkamagaluru district will be regulated through an online vehicular slot system starting next week. A maximum of 1,200 vehicles per day will be allowed across two time slots – 6 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1 p.m.-6 p.m., with booking required online.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The upcoming launch of curated waterfall tour packages reflects Karnataka’s focus on enhancing eco-tourism while prioritizing visitor safety during fluctuating monsoon conditions. By including both iconic attractions like Jog Falls and hidden gems across seven districts,the initiative could encourage greater exploration within rural areas while perhaps distributing tourism revenue more equitably across less frequented regions.

Delaying launch timelines due to adverse weather demonstrates a commitment toward promoting responsible tourism practices rather than risking imprudently timed ventures that may endanger tourists or disrupt fragile ecological zones prone to landslides. Furthermore, integrating measures such as local guides is likely intended not only for tourist convenience but also for fostering community-based enduring tourism models.

In regulating vehicle access around Mullayanagiri peak via digital bookings-a system aiming at reducing environmental strain-the state underscores its exploration into capacity management methods that might set standards applicable beyond this region if accomplished (e.g., Nandi Hills). Though effective implementation remains key in translating vision into long-term gains for conservation-focused travel experiences statewide.

[Published – July 19, 2025 | Source: The Hindu]