The Karnataka government has nominated three heritage sites—Hampi, Mysuru, and Lakkundi—for the Union government's global destination development scheme. Under this initiative, each selected monument will receive Rs 500 crore in phased funding for comprehensive tourism infrastructure upgrades, including amenities, sanitation, digital services, destination management, and heritage conservation.
Selection and Funding Details
According to state tourism officials, the nominations were finalized after a rigorous evaluation of cultural significance, tourist footfall, and development potential. Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Vijayanagara Empire ruins, attracts over 500,000 domestic and international visitors annually. Mysuru, famed for its palace and Dasara festivities, draws more than 3 million tourists each year. Lakkundi, a lesser-known archaeological gem in Gadag district, features over 50 ancient temples and stepwells from the Chalukya period.
The Rs 500 crore allocation per site will be released in phases over five years, as per the scheme guidelines. The funds are earmarked for improving road connectivity, parking facilities, public restrooms, signage, Wi-Fi services, and eco-friendly transport options. Conservation work will focus on structural restoration, landscape preservation, and waste management systems.
Impact on Tourism and Economy
Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai stated, "This recognition will transform these destinations into world-class tourist hubs, boosting local employment and economic growth." The initiative is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in hospitality, transport, and handicraft sectors. For Lakkundi, which currently sees fewer than 50,000 tourists annually, the project could increase footfall by 300% within three years, according to tourism department projections.
Local stakeholders have welcomed the move. "We have long awaited infrastructure upgrades that respect our heritage while making sites accessible," said Dr. Meenakshi Rao, a historian from Mysuru University. The scheme also mandates community participation in destination management, ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
Implementation Timeline
The first phase of development is scheduled to begin by March 2027, with tenders for infrastructure projects to be floated by December 2026. The Karnataka Tourism Department will coordinate with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for conservation work at Hampi and Lakkundi, while Mysuru's palace and heritage buildings will be managed by the state archaeology department.
This selection places Karnataka among the top states leveraging the central scheme, which aims to develop 50 global tourist destinations across India by 2030. The state government has also pledged to match 20% of the central funding from its own budget to expedite projects.
