42

Chapter-II

TOURISM INDUSTRY AT THE GLOBAL LEVEL

2.1. Tourism in the World

2.2. Tourism in India

2.3. Tourism in Karnataka

2.4. Tourism in Uttara Kannada District

2.1. Tourism Industry in the World

Tourism is flourishing all over the world. According to experts, tourism would

capture the global market and become the largest industry in the world. The economic

potential of tourism development is almost unlimited and tourism is becoming an

increasingly important industry on a world wide scale. The statistics and projection

point to an era of unprecedented growth of tourism around the world.

2.1.1. International Tourist Arrivals in World

The World Tourism Organization statistics indicate that, the tourism industry

will continue to grow from strength to strength. From 70 million in the year 1960, the

international tourist arrival worldwide has increased to 883 million by 2009.

World Tourism industry will look back at 2009 as one of the toughest years in

history. On top of a series of political tensions and natural disasters, the industry had

to face the fallout from the economic crisis and the A (H1N1) influenza pandemic.

International tourist arrivals fell by 3.7% in 2009, but the 2% upswing in the last

quarter of the year indicates a change of trend after a drop of 10%, 7% and 2% in the

first three quarters respectively. Asia Pacific and the Middle East regions led recovery

with positive growth in the second half of 2009.

Boosted by improved economic conditions in 2010, the worldwide

international tourism recovered faster than expected from the impacts of global

43

financial crisis and economic recession of late 2008 and 2009. In 2010 the

international tourist arrivals reached 948 million, up 65 million from 2009 (883

million) and 34 million more than the pre-crisis peak level of 2008 (917 million).

International tourist arrivals were up by almost 7% in 2010. However the recovery

came at different speeds and was primarily driven by emerging economies. The vast

majority of destinations worldwide posted positive figures, sufficient to offset recent

losses or bring them close to this target. While all regions posted positive growth in

international tourist arrivals, emerging economies remain the main drivers of this

recovery. This multispeed recovery, lower in advanced economies of the broader

global situation is set to dominate 2011 and the foreseeable future.

Following a year of global recovery in 2010, growth is expected to continue

for the tourism sector in 2011 but at a slower pace. UNWTO forecast international

tourist arrivals to grow at between 4% to 5% in 2011, a rate slightly above the long

term average.

So far, the growth of international tourist arrivals is very much in line with the

initial forecast issued by UNWTO at the beginning of 2011. International tourism

grew by almost 5% in the first half of 2011 totaling a new record of 440 million

arrivals. All world regions showed positive trends with the exception of Middle East

and North Africa. Destination such as Egypt, Tunisia and Japan are also seeing a

decline in tourism. This set back could be on account of the impact of development in

the Middle East, and North Africa, as well the tragic events in Japan which are

temporarily affecting tourist flows to these nations. Nonetheless some destinations in

the Middle East have shown particularly positive results, such as Saudi Arabia and

Dubai demonstrating dynamism of the sector in the region.

44

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

Year 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Inte

rnat

ion

al T

ou

rist

Arr

ival

s in

Wo

rld

(in

Mill

ion

)

Year

International Tourist Arrivals in World

International tourist arrivals worldwide registered a growth of 5.0 % during

the year 2013 as compared to 4.0 % growth during 2012 over 2011. The international

tourist arrivals during 2013, 2012 and 2011 were 1087 million, 1035 million and 995

million respectively. Table 2.1 gives the summary of international tourist arrivals

worldwide from 2004 to 2013.

Table 2.1: International Tourist Arrivals Worldwide from 2004 to 2013

Year

International Tourist

Arrivals in World

(in Million)

Percentage (%) change

over the previous year

2004

762.0 10.3 2005

803.4 5.4 2006

846.0 5.3 2007

894.0 5.7 2008

917.0 2.6 2009

883.0 -3.7 2010

948.0 7.4 2011

995.0 4.9 2012

1035.0 4.0 2013

1087.0 5.0 Source: (i) UNWTO Tourism Market Trends 2007 Edition, for the years upto 2005.

(ii) UNWTO Barometer June 2010 for 2006 and January 2011 for 2007

(iii) UNWTO Tourism Highlights 2011 Edition for 2008 and 2012 Edition for 2009.

(iv) UNWTO Barometer April 2014 for 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013

Graph 2.1: International Tourist Arrivals Worldwide from 2004 to 2013

45

According to World Trade Organization projections, international tourist

arrivals are forecasted to reach 1.8 billion by 2030. International tourism will continue

to grow during the year 2014 - 2030, but at a more moderate pace than the past

decades, with the number of international tourist arrivals worldwide increasing by an

average 3.3% a year. Emerging economies of Asia, Latin America, Central and

Eastern Europe, Eastern Mediterranean Europe, the Middle East and Africa will

continue to gain market share. By 2015, emerging economies will receive more

international tourist than advanced economies and by 2030 their share is expected to

reach 58 %. By 2030, North East Asia will be the most visited sub region in the world

representing 16% of total arrival and taking over from Southern and Mediterranean

Europe, with a 15% share in 2030.

Global market trends indicate the long overhaul travel, neighboring country

tourism, rural and ethnic tourism, wellness and health holidays, cultural tourism,

spiritual, ecotourism, sports and adventure tourism, coastal tourism and cruise tourism

are a few emerging area of tourism interest. World tourist arrivals in Asia are likely to

grow faster than arrival in Europe and the Asian market share of world tourism would

steadily increase until 2020 (See Table 2.2). The shift in key trends thus represents

greater opportunities for developing economies. It also creates avenues to develop

niche areas such as coastal tourism, medical tourism, rural tourism and adventure

tourism to enhance the tourist value of destination.

Given the above factors, robust growth in tourism is likely to continue in the

coming years. Worldwide long distance travel is likely to grow faster (5.4% each

year) than travel within regions (3.8%). Continuing world prosperity, growing

recognition of tourism’s contribution to employment and economic growth,

availability of better infrastructure, focused marketing and promotion efforts,

46

liberalization of air transport, growing intra regional cooperation, and growing

number of Public-Private-Partnership are seen as the key drivers for tourism in the

next decade.

Table 2.2: International Tourist Arrival Forecasts by Region

Region Base Year

(Million)

Forecasts

(Million)

Average Annual

Growth Rate (%)

Market Share

(%)

1995 2010 2020 1995-2020 1995 2020

World 565.4 1,006.4 1,561.1 4.1% 100.0% 100.0%

Europe 338.4 527.3 717.0 3.0% 59.8% 45.9%

East

Asia/Pacific

81.4 195.2 397.2 6.5% 14.4% 25.4%

South Asia 4.2 10.6 18.8 6.2% 0.7% 1.2%

Source: World Tourism Organization

Graph 2.2: World Tourism Organisation Forecast for Tourist Arrivals

Source: World Tourism Organization

As observed, tourism trends around the world are likely to remain robust and

the growth of the Travel & Tourism industry worldwide will significantly impact

tourism flows towards the subcontinent.

47

2.1.2. International Tourism Receipts Worldwide

As per UNWTO estimates, worldwide receipts from international tourism

were US$ 853 billion in 2009 down from US$ 939 billion in 2008. All regions

suffered a drop in receipts in real terms (and also in arrivals, with the exception of

Africa), albeit with varying rates of decline. The brunt of the losses were born by the

Americas (-10%), with US $22 billion less than the previous year, and Europe (-7%),

where receipts declined by around US $ 60 billion (26 billion euro). Asia and the

pacific (-1%), the Middle East and Africa (both -4%) did comparatively better than

the world average (-9.5%). In the case of Asia and the Pacific, the decline followed a

series of five very strong years. Europe accounts for about 48.5 % of the world’s total

receipts from international tourism followed by Asia Pacific region (23.8%),

Americas (19.4%), Middle East (4.9%) and Africa (3.4%).

It is clear from the Table 2.3 that, international tourism receipts worldwide,

which were hardly US$ 633.2 billion in 2004, have reached US$ 1159 billion in 2013,

about double in 10 years time. Whereas in terms of international tourist arrivals

worldwide, the number has grown from 762 million in 2004 to 1087 million tourist

arrivals in 2013 only. Table 2.3 gives the year-wise receipts from international

tourism worldwide over the years 2004- 2013.

48

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

(in

US$

Bill

ion

)

Year

International Tourism Receipts Worldwide from 2004 to 2013

(in US$ Billion)

Table 2.3: International Tourism Receipts Worldwide from 2004 to 2013

Year

International Tourism

Receipts in World

(in US$ Billion)

Percentage (%) change

over the previous year

2004

633.2 19.6 2005

679.6 7.3 2006

744.0 9.5 2007

857.0 15.2 2008

939.0 9.6 2009

853.0 -9.2 2010

931.0 9.1 2011

1042.0 11.9 2012

1078.0 3.5 2013

1159.0 7.5 Source: (i) UNWTO Tourism Market Trends 2007 Edition, for the years upto 2005.1

(ii) UNWTO Barometer June 2010 for 2006 and January 2011 for 2007

(iii) UNWTO Tourism Highlights 2011 Edition for 2008 and 2012 Edition for 2009.

(iv) UNWTO Barometer April 2014 for 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013

Graph 2.3: International Tourism Receipts Worldwide from 2004 to 2013

2.1.3. Tourism Industry Contribution to World GDP, Employment and Capital

Investment

The data revealed by the World Travel & Tourism Council suggests that, in

2010 the contribution of travel and tourism to the world GDP was to the tune of 9%,

whereas, its total employment effect was more than 235 million jobs, representing 8%

of global employment.

49

2011 was one of the most challenging years ever experienced by the global

Travel & Tourism industry. However, despite political upheaval, economic

uncertainty and natural disasters, the industry’s direct contribution to world GDP

grew by nearly 3% to US$2 trillion and directly generated 1.2 million new jobs. This

was supported by a 3% increase in visitor exports to US$1.2 trillion, with almost 3%

growth in capital investment, which rose to over US$0.7 trillion.

Travel & Tourism’s importance to the wider economy continued to grow in

2012. Its total contribution comprised 9% of global GDP (US $6.6 trillion) and

generated over 260 million jobs – 1 in 11 of the world’s total jobs. The industry

outperformed the entire wider economy in 2012, growing faster than other notable

industries such as manufacturing, financial services and retail.

The direct contribution from tourism sector to World GDP was US$2,155.4

billion (2.9% of total GDP) in 2013, and is expected to rise by 4.3% in 2014, and to

rise by 4.2% p.a., from 2014-2024, to US$3,379.3 billion (3.1% of total GDP) in

2024. The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP was US$ 6,990.3 billion

(9.5% of GDP) in 2013, and is expected to rise by 4.3% in 2014, and to rise by 4.2%

p.a. to US$10,965.1 billion (10.3% of GDP) in 2024.

In 2013 Travel & Tourism directly supported 100,894,000 jobs (3.4% of total

employment). This is expected to rise by 2.2% in 2014 and rise by 2.0% p.a. to

126,257,000 jobs (3.7% of total employment) in 2024. In 2013, the total contribution

of Travel & Tourism to employment, including jobs indirectly supported by the

industry, was 8.9% of total employment (265,855,000 jobs). This is expected to rise

by 2.5% in 2014 to 272,417,000 jobs and rise by 2.4% p.a. to 346,901,000 jobs in

2024 (10.2% of total).

50

Visitor exports generated US$1,295.9 billion (5.4% of total exports) in 2013.

This is forecast to grow by 4.8% in 2014, and grow by 4.2% p.a., from 2014-2024, to

US$2,052.4 billion in 2024 (5.2% of total).

Travel & Tourism investment in 2013 was US$813.0 billion, or 4.7% of total

investment. It should rise by 5.8% in 2014, and rise by 5.1% p.a. over the next ten

years to US$1,310.9 billion in 2024 (4.9% of total).

Table 2.4: Tourism Industry Contribution to World GDP, Employment and

Capital Investment.

Year

Travel & Tourism Industry

Contribution to GDP

(In US $ Billion)

Travel & Tourism Industry

Contribution to Employment

(In Thousands)

Travel &

Tourism

Capital

Investment

Investment

CCCapital

%

Share

Direct %

Share

Total %

Share

Direct %

Shar

e

Total %

Share

(In US $

Billion)

2004

1338.28 3.10 4149.09 9.80 95794.20 3.50 256473 9.50 410.85 4.50

2005

1430.76 3.10 4477.24 9.70 97001.20 3.50 258476 9.50 482.01 4.80

2006

1547.20 3.10 4858.35 9.80 100886.0

0

3.60 266950 9.60 545.22 4.90

2007

1725.91 3.00 5464.77 9.70 100174.0

0

3.50 274312 9.70 640.97 5.00

2008

1818.71 2.90 5919.15 9.60 100250.0

0

3.50 264190 9.20 737.58 5.20

2009

1686.88 2.90 5472.57 9.40 97292.40 3.30 256076 8.90 640.99 5.00

2010

1813.33 2.80 5858.70 9.20 97779.40 3.30 253000 8.60 674.48 4.80

2011

2011.45 2.80 6492.00 9.20 99498.10 3.30 257348 8.70 750.66 4.70

2012

2056.70 2.80 6631.01 9.20 101118.0

0

3.30 261394 8.70 764.85 4.70

2013

2155.40 2.90 6990.30 9.50 100894.0

0

3.40 272417 8.90 813.05 4.70

Source: World Travel & Tourism Council Data 2013.

51

Graph 2.4: Tourism Industry Contribution to World GDP, Employment and

Capital Investment.

2.2. Tourism Industry in India

In fact, our Country is a land of spectacular landscape, enchanting coast line,

colourful season, wildlife paradise, aesthetic and exquisite traditions of architecture

and land of rich music and dances. Besides, India is a land of great cultural heritage,

ancient wonders, fabulous treasures, exotic and utility handicrafts, secluded serene,

beautiful virgin natural beauty and above all a land of myth, magic and miracles.

India’s glorious traditions and rich cultural heritage are linked with the development

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

(In

US

$ B

illio

n)

Travel & Tourism Industry Contribution to World GDP

92000

94000

96000

98000

100000

102000

104000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

(In

Th

ou

san

ds)

Travel & Tourism Industry Contribution to World Employment

52

of tourism. Its magnificent monuments has been attracting large number of visitors

from all over the world.

Apart from, its cultural heritage, India has an exceptionally varied climate

ranging from extreme cold in high altitudes to the hot summers in the plains. The

wealth of cultural traditions extending over thousands of years, the natural

surroundings, the architectural masterpieces, the music, dance, paintings, customs and

languages all go to make India a tourist paradise. Few countries in the world provide

such varied interest to visitors.

Multifaceted and multilingual in nature, India offers a huge array of tourist

places to be explored. The shades of the nation compose a number of communities,

religions, and races. As a result, the tourist attractions in India are varied and

numerous in nature. Each corner of the city exhibits a unique flavor reflecting its past

and its ideology in the process. India is a large country and has 29 states and 7 Union

Territories. Each of these forms the various tourist attractions of India.

North Zone

The vast expanses of the North Indian Territory present one of the world’s

most widespread and fertile lands, comprising the alluvial soil deposited in the form

of fine silt by the rivers. Lying towards the south of the Himalayas, the northern

plains comprise the Indus basin, the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin. Uttar Pradesh, Jammu

& Kashmir, Uttaranchal, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya

Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are the states that form the North zone. Some of the striking

tourist destinations of India in the North zone are the Taj Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Jama

Masjid, Dal Lake, Jaisalmer Fort, Agra Fort, Qutub Minar and Corbett National Park.

53

East Zone

The east zone of India is comprised of states like Orissa, West Bengal, Bihar,

Jharkhand, Assam, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura, Manipur,

Mizoram and Meghalaya. The natural beauty ranges from the snow capped mountains

of Arunachal Pradesh to Assam’s Brahmaputra and the Barak river valleys; from the

hilly terrain of Meghalaya, full of dense forests to the mountainous state of Nagaland;

from the fertile plateaus of Orissa to the loamy plains of West Bengal. The various

tourist attractions in this region broadly include Konark temples, Sundarbans, Bodh

Gaya, Rajgir, etc.

West Zone

It comprising the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Goa and the UTs Daman

& Diu, the western region is one of the most traveled tourist zones of India. Located

along the blue waters of the Arabian Sea, all of these states offer primarily coastal

beauties of beaches and sea shores. Gujarat, one of the most important states, houses

some of the most impressive architectural works of art, like the Somnath Temple and

the Dwarkadhish Temple. Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is another favorite site for the

tourists. Ajanta and Ellora Caves and Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra are some of the

striking tourist destinations in India. Goa, another chosen tourist spot in the western

area, offers magnificent beaches of Dona Paula and Calangute.

South Zone

It is one of the major tourist zones of India, and it includes the states of Tamil

Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar

islands. A region consisting of the Great Plateau of Peninsular India, which in turn, is

divided into two parts, - the Malwa Plateau and the Deccan Plateau. The backwaters

of Kerala, the wildlife sanctuaries of the Nilgiris, and exotic beaches of Kerala, Tamil

Nadu, Pondicherry, Andaman & Nicobar, and Lakshadweep are some of the prime

54

tourist attractions here. Among the architectural specimens, the Meenakshi Temple,

Khajuraho Temples, the Tirupati Temple hold great tourism significance.

Tourism in India has received a major boost in the past decade since the Indian

Government realized the great potential of tourism of India. Tourism of India has

grown by leaps and bounds with a great influx of tourists from throughout the world

who have been irresistibly attractive to the travelers. India has the right tourism

potential and attractions to captivate all types of tourists whether it is adventurous

tour, cultural exploration, pilgrimages, visit to the beautiful beaches or to the scenic

mountain resorts, Tourism of India has it all for you. India has become one of the

fastest growing economies in the world over the last two decades, undoubtedly aided

in this performance by economic reforms. The striking aspect of India’s recent growth

has been the dynamism of the service sector.

2.2.1. Present Scenario of Tourism in India

Tourism in India is the largest service industry with a contribution of 6.6% to

the national GDP and 7.7% of the total employment in 2013 in India. In 2012, total

Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTA) in India were 5.78 million and India generated about

200 billion US dollars in 2008 and that is expected to increase to US$375.5 billion by

2018 at a 9.4% annual growth rate. The majority of foreign tourists come from USA

and UK. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Uttara Pradesh and Rajasthan are the top five

states to receive inbound tourists. Ministry of Tourism is the nodal agency to

formulate national policies and programmes for the development and promotion of

tourism. In the process, the Ministry consults and collaborates with other stakeholders

in the sector including various Central Ministries/agencies, the state governments and

union territories and the representatives of the private sector. Concerted efforts are

being made to promote new forms of tourism such as rural, cruise, medical and eco-

tourism.

55

The Ministry of Tourism also maintains the Incredible India campaign. In

2013, total Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTA) in India were 6.97 million and Foreign

Exchange Earnings stood at US$ 18.445 billion (Global rank-16) up 4.0% from

previous year figure of US$ 17.737 billion (6.58 million FTAs in 2012). The top ten

States in terms of number of FTAs (in millions) during 2013 were Maharashtra (4.2),

Tamil Nadu (4.0), Delhi (2.3), Uttar Pradesh (2.0), Rajasthan (1.4), West Bengal

(1.2), Kerala (0.86), Bihar (0.77), Karnataka (0.64) and Goa (0.49).

India's Foreign Exchange earnings grew by an astonishing 14.1% (CAGR)

during 2001-10 out-pacing global average 7.7%. Owing to steady decade-long

growth, India's share in world Foreign exchange earnings has gone up from 0.97% in

2004 to about 1.59% in 2013. The top ten States in terms of number of domestic

tourist visits (in millions), during 2013, were Tamil Nadu (244.2), Uttar Pradesh

(226.5), Andhra Pradesh (152.1), Karnataka (98.0), Maharashtra (82.7), Madhya

Pradesh (63.1), Rajasthan (30.3), Gujarat (27.4), West Bengal (25.5) and Chhattisgarh

(22.8). The contribution of top 10 States was about 84.9% to the total number of

domestic tourist visits during 2013. The percentage shares of top 5 States were Tamil

Nadu (21.3%), Uttar Pradesh (19.8%), Andhra Pradesh (13.3%), Karnataka (8.6%)

and Maharashtra (7.2%).

According to World Travel and Tourism Council 2008, India will be a tourism

hot-spot from 2009 to 2018, having the highest 10-year growth potential. India's rich

history and its cultural and geographical diversity make its international tourism

appeal large and diverse. It presents heritage and cultural tourism along with medical,

business and sports tourism. India has one of the largest and fastest growing medical

tourism sectors. In anticipation of huge demand driven by inbound and domestic

travel, and current scarcity of rooms, hotels continued to add capacity at a fast rate. In

56

2013, travel accommodation witnessed the entry of many foreign players who foresaw

huge demand for budget hotels, and subsequently planned to launch their brands in

India.

A few leading foreign chains and domestic players including Starwood Capital

and Carlson Hotels are adding capacity to increase supply in the budget segment.

Addition of huge capacity is likely to create a supply demand mismatch resulting in

intensive competition in the near future.

Drivers behind Increase in Tourist Traffic

The main drivers for increase in tourist traffic to India have been the following

factors:

Domestic Tourist Traffic

Rapidly increasing purchasing power of the middle class

Better road connectivity

Evolving Lifestyle

International Tourist Traffic

Value for money/economical holiday destination

Business cum pleasure destination.

Development of Kerala and Rajasthan as the most popular tourist destinations in

India with their distinctive brand image.

Opening of the sectors of the economy to private sector/foreign investment.

Reform in the aviation sector such as Open Skies Policy has led to better

connectivity with many countries with India.

Success of “Incredible India” campaign and other tourism promotion measures.

57

2.2.2. Role of the Government

The role of the Government in tourism development has been redefined from

that of a regulator to that of a catalyst. Apart from marketing and promotion, the focus

of tourism development plans is now on integrated development enabling

infrastructure through effective partnership with various stakeholders.

Tourism development in India has passed through many phases. The

development of tourist facilities was taken up in a planned manner in 1956 coinciding

with the Second Five Year Plan. The approach has evolved from isolated planning of

single unit facilities in the Second and Third Five Year Plans. The Sixth Plan marked

the beginning of a new era when tourism began to be considered a major instrument

for social integration and economic development. However, it was only after the 80‟s

that tourism activity gained momentum.

A National Policy on Tourism was announced in 1982. In 1992, a National

Action Plan was prepared and in 1996 the National Strategy for Promotion of

Tourism was drafted. In 1997, a draft New Tourism Policy in tune with the economic

policies of the Government and the trends in tourism development was published for

public debate. The draft policy is now under revision. The proposed policy recognizes

the roles of Central and State Governments, Public Sector Undertakings and the

Private Sector in the development of tourism. The need for involvement of Panchayati

Raj institutions, local bodies, non-Governmental organizations and the local youth in

the creation of tourism facilities has also been recognized.

As per the working strategy for the 12th Five Year Plan, the Ministry of

Tourism has adopted a “pro-poor tourism” approach which could contribute

significantly to poverty reduction. More than half of Tourism Ministry’s Plan budget

is channelized for funding the development of destinations, circuits, mega projects as

58

also for rural tourism infrastructure projects (see Annexure-I). The Ministry also

ensured that 10% and 2.5% of its total Annual Plan (2012-13) outlay went to the

tourism projects in the North-Eastern region and the tribal areas respectively.

The other major development that took place was the setting up of the India

Tourism Development Corporation in 1966 to promote India as a tourist destination

and the Tourism Finance Corporation in 1989 to finance tourism projects. Altogether,

21 Government-run Hotel Management and Catering Technology Institutes and 14

Food Craft Institutes were also established for imparting specialized training in

hoteliering and catering.

Government Initiatives

Government of India, has allowed 100 per cent foreign investment under the

automatic route in the Hotel and Tourism related industry. The terms hotel

includes restaurants, beach resorts and other tourism complexes providing

accommodation and /or catering and food facilities to tourists. The term tourism

related industry includes:

Travel agencies, tour operating agencies and tourist transport operating agencies.

Units providing facilities for cultural, adventure and wildlife experience to tourists.

Surface, air and water transport facilities for tourists

Convention/seminar units and organizations

As a facilitative measure to make Tourism sector in India more attractive the

following initiatives are taken by Government:

The Government of India has launched the ‘Incredible India’ mobile application.

The app will help tourists to seek information, besides enabling quality and

reliable services from service providers recognised by the Government of India.

59

This app demonstrates the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to the use of

technology for service delivery.

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has launched the new tourism

brand for the Union Territories of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, as

well as released the Vision 2020 publication for Dadra and Nagar Haveli. This

step by the government has been taken with a view to help in overall economic

development of these union territories.

The West Bengal government has decided to set up an eco-tourism board to

project the state as a major tourist destination. Work for developing a mega

tourism project has already started in Jalpaiguri district and plans to develop

similar projects in Sylee and Kunjanagar is under discussion.

The Ministry of Tourism Department, Government of India, in association with

the Maharastra state Govt. has proposed to create a cultural hub on the lines of

Times Square, New York. The vision behind such a cultural hub is to provide

popular entertainment as well as access to heritage and culture for the benefit of

international tourists, domestic tourists and the people of Mumbai.

Road Ahead

The medical tourism market in India is projected to hit US$ 3.9 billion mark

this year having grown at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27 per cent

over the last three years, according to a joint report by FICCI and KPMG. Also,

inflow of medical tourists is expected to cross 320 million by 2015 compared with 85

million in 2012. The tourism industry is also looking forward to the E-visa scheme

which is expected to double the tourist inflow to India. Enforcing the electronic travel

authorization (ETA) before the next tourism season, which starts in November, will

result in a clear jump of at least 15 per cent.

60

Mega Destinations/Circuits Identified in different States

S. No

States

Name of the Mega Projects

1

Andhra Pradesh

Charminar area of Hyderabad, Tirupati Heritage Circuit,

Kadapa Heritage Tourist Circuit

2

Assam

National Park Mega circuit covering Manas, Orang, Nameri,

Kaziranga, Jorhat, Sibsagar and Majouli

3

Bihar

Bodhgaya-Rajgir-Nalanda Circuit

4

Chhattisgarh

Jagdalpur-Tirathgarh-Chitrakoot-Barsur Dantewada-

Tirathgarh Circuit

5

Delhi

Illumination of Monuments Circuit

6

Goa

Churches of Goa

7

Gujarat

Dwarka-Nageshwar-Bet Dwarka Circuit Shuklatirth-Kabirvad

Mangleshwar Angareshwar

8

Haryana

Panipat-Kurukshetra-Pinjore

9

Himachal Pradesh

Eco and Adventure Circuit (Kullu-Katrain-Manali)

10

Haryana & Himachal

Pradesh

Panchkula-Yamunanagar (Haryana)-Paonta Sahib (Himachal

Pradesh) Circuit

11

Jammu & Kashmir

Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex Naagar Nagar Circuit

(Watlab via Hazratbal, Tulmullah, Mansbal and Wullar

Lake), Srinagar Spiritual and Wellness Destination Leh –

Ladakh

12

Karnataka

Hampi

13

Kerala

Muziris Heritage Circuit connecting historic and

archaeologically important places of Kodungalloor

14

Madhya Pradesh

Spiritual and Wellness Destination of Chitrakoot

15

Maharashtra

Vidarbha Heritage Circuit Aurangabad

16

Manipur

INA Memorial

17

Orissa

Bhubaneswar- Puri-Chilka

18

Punjab

Amritsar

19

Rajasthan

Ajmer- Pushkar, Jodhpur- Bikaner-Jaisalmer

20

Sikkim

Gangtok

21

Tamilnadu

Mahabalipuram, Pilgrimage Heritage, Madurai-

Rameshwaram-Kanyakumari), Thanjavaur

22

Uttarakhand

Haridwar-Rishikesh-Muni-Ki-Reti Circuit

23

Uttar Pradesh

Agra Circuit, Varanasi-Sarnath-Ramnagar

24

West Bengal

Ganga Heritage River Cruise Circuit

25

Tripura

Mega Lake Circuit including Mata Bari

2.2.3. Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India

According to Indian Tourism Statistics report, the FTAs in India continued to

grow from 1.28 million in 1981, to 1.68 million in 1991, 2.54 million in 2001, and

reaching 5.11 million in 2009. During the year 2009, India witnessed a negative

61

growth of 2.2 % over 2008. However, growth rate for India was better than that the

negative growth of 4.2% registered for the world during 2009. The compounded

annual growth rate (CAGR) in FTAs in India during 2001 to 2009 was 9.14 %.

Further, the number of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during 2011

increased to 6.31 million as compared to 5.78 million in 2010. The growth rate in

FTAs during 2011 over 2010 was 9.2% as compared to 11.8% during 2010 over 2009.

The growth rate of 9.2% in 2011 for India was better than growth rate of 5% for the

International Tourist Arrivals in 2011.

The number of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during 2013

increased to 6.97 million from 6.58 million in 2012. The growth rate in FTAs during

2013 over 2012 was 5.9% as compared to 4.3% during 2012 over 2011. The growth

rate of 5.9% in 2013 for India was better than the growth rate of 5% for the

International Tourist Arrivals in 2013. Table 2.5 gives the number of FTAs in India in

the years 2004 to 2013 and the growth rate over previous year.

Table 2.5: Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India from 2004 to 2013

Year FTAs from Tourism in

India (In Million)

Percentage (%) Change

over the Previous Year

2004 3.46 26.8

2005 3.92 13.3

2006 4.45 13.5

2007 5.08 14.3

2008 5.28 4.0

2009 5.17 -2.2

2010 5.78 11.8

2011 6.31 9.2

2012 6.58 4.3

2013 6.97 5.9

Source: Bureau of Immigration, Govt. of India.

62

Graph 2.5: Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India from 2004 to 2013

2.2.4. Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEE) from Tourism in India

Tourism is one of the important sectors in India for foreign exchange earnings

(FEE). As per the monthly estimates prepared by Ministry of Tourism, FEE from

tourism in India in 2009 were Rs.54960 crore as compared to Rs.50730 in 2008

registering a growth of 8.3 % in 2009 over 2008. In 2011, FEE were increased to

Rs.77591 crore as compared to Rs.64889 crore in 2010 registering a growth of 19.6 %

in 2011 over 2010.

In 2013, Foreign Exchange Earnings stood at Rs.107671crore (Global rank-

16) up 21.8% from previous year (2012) figure of Rs.94487crore. The FEE from

tourism in India, in INR terms, during 2004-2013 are given in Table 2.6.

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

In M

illio

nFTAs from Tourism in India (In

Million)

63

0

20000

40000

60000

80000

100000

120000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

in c

rore

s

FEE from Tourism in India (In Crore)

Table 2.6: Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEE) from Tourism in India, 2004-2013

Year FEE from Tourism in

India (In Crore)

Percentage (%)Change

over the Previous Year

2004 27944 34.8

2005 33123 18.5

2006 39025 17.8

2007 44360 13.7

2008 51294 15.6

2009 53700 4.7

2010 64889 20.8

2011 77591 19.6

2012 94487 21.8

2013 107671 14.0

Source: (i) Reserve Bank of India, for 2004 to 2010.

(ii) Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, for 2011, 2012 & 2013.

Graph 2.6: Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEE) from Tourism in India, 2004-2013

64

2.2.5. Top 10 Source Countries for Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India in

2013

Table 2.7 gives the percentage shares and ranks of top 10 source countries for

India during 2013. The FTAs in India from United States of America (USA) were the

highest (15.58%) during 2013, followed by United Kingdom (11.62%), Bangladesh

(7.53%), Sri Lanka (3.77 %), Russian Fed. (3.72%), Canada (3.66%), Germany

(3.62%), France (3.56%), Malaysia (3.48%) and Japan (3.16 %). The share of FTAs

from top 10 countries during the year 2013 was 59.70% as compared to 60.53% in

2012.

Table 2.7: Top 10 Source Countries for Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India

in 2013

Rank

Source Country FTAs

( in millions)

Percentage

(%) Share

1.

USA

1085309

15.58

2.

United Kingdom

809444

11.62

3.

Bangladesh

524923

7.53

4.

Sri Lanka

262345

3.77

5.

Russian Fed.

259120

3.72

6.

Canada

255222

3.66

7.

Germany

252003

3.62

8.

France

248379

3.56

9.

Malaysia

242649

3.48

10.

Japan

220283

3.16

Total of Top 10 Countries

4159677

59.70

Others

2807924

40.30

Grand Total

6967601

100.0

Source: Bureau of Immigration, Govt. of India.

65

Graph 2.7: Top 10 Source Countries for Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in

India in 2013

2.2.6. Number of Indian Nationals Departures (INDs) from India

The total count of Indian Nationals departures to other countries is compiled

by the Bureau of Immigration (BOI) from Embarkation cards. The number of Indian

nationals’ departures from India during 1991 was 1.94 million, which rose to 16.63

million in 2013. The number of Indian nationals’ departures from India during 2013

registered a growth of 11.4% over 2012 as compared to 6.7 % growth in 2012 over

2011. The figures of Indian national’s departures for the years 2004 to 2013, along

with percentage change over the previous year, are given in Table 2.8.

USA26%

United Kingdom20%

Bangladesh13%

Sri Lanka6%

Russian Fed.6%

Canada6%

Germany6%

France6%

Malaysia6%

Japan5%

Top 10 Source Countries for Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India in 2013

66

Table 2.8: Number of Indian Nationals Departures (INDs) from India, 2004-2013

Year No. of Indian National

Departures (In Million)

Percentage (%)

Change over the

Previous Year

2004 6.21 16.1

2005 7.18 15.6

2006 8.34 16.1

2007 9.78 17.3

2008 10.87 11.1

2009 11.07 1.8

2010 12.99 17.4

2011 13.99 7.7

2012 14.92 6.7

2013 16.63 11.4

Source: India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2013

Graph 2.8: Number of Indian Nationals Departures (INDs) from India, 2004-2013

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

In M

illio

ns

No. of Indian National Departures (In Million)

67

2.2.7. Number of Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) to all States/UTs in India

Table 2.9 presents the statistics on domestic tourist visits to various States and

UTs during the years 2004 to 2013. There has been a continuous increase in domestic

tourist visits to all States/UTs from 366.27 million in 2004 to 1145.28 million in

2013. The year 2013 witnessed a growth of 9.6 % in domestic tourist visits over the

year 2012, which is higher than the growth of 20.9% in the year 2012 over 2011.

Table 2.9: Number of Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) to all States/UTs in

India, 2004-2013

Year No. of Domestic Tourist

Visits to States/UTs

(In Million)

Percentage (%)

Change over the

Previous Year

2004 366.27 18.5

2005 392.01 7.0

2006 462.32 17.9

2007 526.56 13.9

2008 563.03 6.9

2009 668.80 18.8

2010 747.70 11.8

2011 864.53 15.6

2012 1045.05 20.9

2013 1145.28 9.6

Source: State/ Union Territory Tourism Departments.

India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2013.

68

Graph 2.9: Number of Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) to all States/UTs in

India, 2004-2013

2.2.8. Number of Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) to all States/UTs in India

Table 2.10 presents the statistics on foreign tourist visits to various States and

UTs during the years 2004 to 2013. The foreign tourist visits have been increasing

over the years, though there was a decline in the years 1992, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2009

and 2012. The foreign tourist visits to all States/UTs witnessed a growth from 8.36

million in 2004 to 19.95 million in 2013. During 2013, the number of FTVs to

States/UTs registered a growth of 9.24% over 2012 as compared to a negative growth

of 6.3% in 2012 over 2011.

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

In m

illio

n

No. of Domestic Tourist Visits to States/UTs

69

Table 2.10: Number of Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) to all States/UTs in

India, 2004-2013

Year No. of Foreign Tourist

Visits to States/UTs

(In Million)

Percentage (%)

Change over the

Previous Year

2004 8.36 24.6

2005 9.95 19.0

2006 11.74 18.0

2007 13.26 12.9

2008 14.38 8.5

2009 14.37 -0.1

2010 17.91 24.6

2011 19.50 8.9

2012 18.26 -6.3

2013 19.95 9.2

Source: State/ Union Territory Tourism Departments.

India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2013

Graph 2.10: Number of Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) to all States/UTs in

India, 2004-2013

0

5

10

15

20

25

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

In M

illio

ns

No. of Foreign Tourist Visits to States/UTs (In Million)

70

2.2.9. Share of Top 10 States/UTs of India in Number of Domestic Tourist

Visits in 2013

Table 2.11 provides the percentage shares and ranks of various States/UTs in

domestic tourist visits during 2013. The top ten States in terms of number of domestic

tourist visits (in millions), during 2013, were Tamil Nadu (244.2), Uttara Pradesh

(226.5), Andhra Pradesh (152.1), Karnataka (98.0), Maharashtra (82.7), Madhya

Pradesh (63.1), Rajasthan (30.3), Gujarat (27.4), West Bengal (25.5) and Chhattisgarh

(22.8). The contribution of top 10 States was about 84.9% to the total number of

domestic tourist visits during 2013. The percentage shares of top 5 States were Tamil

Nadu (21.3%), Uttar Pradesh (19.8%), Andhra Pradesh (13.3%), Karnataka (8.6%)

and Maharashtra (7.2%).

Tamil Nadu has occupied the first rank in terms of DTVs in 2013 rising from

2nd rank during 2012 whereas Andhra Pradesh which was at 1st rank in 2012 has

dropped down to the 3rd rank. Uttar Pradesh which was at 3rd rank in 2012 has

moved up to 2nd place. Though the top ten States in terms of DTVs in 2013, remained

almost the same as those in 2012 except the State of Chhattisgarh which was in 16th

position has risen to the 10th position and Uttarakhand which was in 8th position by

its negatively affected growth could not clinch a position among the top 10 States.

71

Table 2.11: Share of Top 10 States/UTs of India in Number of Domestic

Tourist Visits in 2013

Rank State/UT Domestic Tourist Visits

Number Percentage

1 Tamil Nadu 24423248 21.3

2 Uttar Pradesh 22653109 19.8

3 Andhra Pradesh 15210215 13.3

4 Karnataka 9801014 8.6

5 Maharashtra 8270055 7.2

6 Madhya Pradesh 6311070 5.5

7 Rajasthan 3029815 2.6

8 Gujarat 2741251 2.4

9 West Bengal 2554730 2.2

10 Chhattisgarh 2280103 2.0

Total of Top 10 States 97274613 84.9

Others 17253431 15.1

Total 114528044 100.0

Source: State/UT Tourism Departments.

Graph 2.11: Share of Top 10 States/UTs of India in Number of Domestic

Tourist Visits in 2013

25%

23%

16%

10%

9%

6%

3% 3%3% 2%

Share of Top 10 States/UTs of Indai in Number of Domestic Tourist Visits in 2013

Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Karnataka Maharashtra

Madhya Pradesh Rajasthan Gujarat West Bengal Chhattisgarh

72

2.2.10. Share of Top 10 States/UTs of India in Number of Foreign Tourist

Visits in 2013

Table 2.12 provides the percentage shares and ranks of various States/UTs in

foreign tourist visits during 2013.The top ten States in terms of number of foreign

tourist visits (in millions), during 2013, were Maharashtra (41.5), Tamil Nadu (39.9),

Delhi (23.0), Uttara Pradesh (20.5), Rajasthan (14.3), West Bengal (12.4), Kerala

(8.5), Bihar (7.6), Karnataka (6.3) and Goa (4.9). The contribution of top 10 States

was about 89.9% to the total number of foreign tourist visits during 2013. The

percentage shares of top 5 States were Maharashtra (20.8%), Tamil Nadu (20.0%),

Delhi (11.5%), Uttara Pradesh (10.3%) and Rajasthan (7.2%).

The top ten States in terms of FTVs in 2013, almost remained the same as

those in 2012 except that of Himachal Pradesh which was at 10th position in 2012 got

replaced by Goa, after sliding down by the position.

Table 2.12: Share of Top 10 States/UTs of India in Number of Foreign

Tourist Visits in 2013

Rank State/UT Foreign Tourist Visits

Number Percentage

1 Maharashtra 4156343 20.8

2 Tamil Nadu 3990490 20.0

3 Delhi 2301395 11.5

4 Uttar Pradesh 2054420 10.3

5 Rajasthan 1437162 7.2

6 West Bengal 1245230 6.2

7 Kerala 858143 4.3

8 Bihar 765835 3.8

9 Karnataka 636378 3.2

10 Goa 492322 2.5

Total of Top 10 States 17937718 89.9

Others 2013308 10.1

Total 19951026 100.0

Source: State/UT Tourism Departments.

73

Graph 2.12: Share of Top 10 States/UTs of India in Number of Foreign

Tourist Visits in 2013

2.2.11. Tourism Industry Contribution to India GDP, Employment and Capital

Investment

As stated earlier, the tourism industry of India is economically important and

growing rapidly. The data revealed by the World Travel & Tourism Council suggests

that the direct contribution from this sector to country’s GDP was INR2,178.1 billion

(2.0% of total GDP) in 2013, and is expected to rise by 7.5% in 2014, and further, it is

estimated to rise by 6.4% p.a., from 2014-2024, to INR4,346.4 billion (2.1% of total

GDP) in 2024. The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP was INR6,631.6

billion (6.6% of nations GDP) in 2013, and is expected to rise by 7.3% in 2014, and to

rise by 7.0% p.a. to INR13,983.0 billion (6.8% of GDP) in 2024.

Maharashtra23%

Tamil Nadu22%

Delhi13%

Uttar Pradesh

11%

Rajasthan8%

West Bengal7%

Kerala5%

Bihar4%

Karnataka4%

Goa3%

Share of Top 10 States/UTs of India in Number of Foreign Tourist Visits in 2013

74

In 2013, Travel & Tourism directly supported 22,320,000 jobs (4.9% of total

employment). This is expected to rise by 2.5% in 2014 and rise by 2.1% p.a. to

28,081,000 jobs (5.1% of total employment) in 2024. In 2013, the total contribution of

Travel & Tourism to employment, including jobs indirectly supported by the industry,

was 7.7% of total employment (35,438,500 jobs). This is expected to rise by 2.7% in

2014 to 36,409,000 jobs and rise by 1.9% p.a. to 43,837,000 jobs in 2024 (7.9% of

total).

Travel & Tourism investment in 2013 was INR1,938.7 billion, or 6.2% of total

investment. This is expected to rise by 9.8% in 2014, and rise by 6.5% p.a. over the

next ten years to INR3,981.3 billion in 2024 (6.4% of total). Table 2.13 presents the

statistics about tourism industry contribution to India GDP, employment and capital

investment from 2004 to 2013.

Table 2.13: Tourism Industry Contribution to India GDP, Employment and

Capital Investment

Year

Travel & Tourism Industry

Contribution to GDP

(In US$ Billion)

Travel & Tourism Industry

Contribution to Employment

(In Thousands)

Travel &

Tourism

Capital

Investment

(In US$

Billion)

%

Share

Direct %

Share

Total %

Share

Direct %

Share

Total %

Share

2004

17.201 2.4 60.486 8.7 22185.3 5.2 46323.3 11.0 5.642 2.9

2005

16.506 2.0 56.735 7.0 21180.3 4.9 40395.8 9.3 8.840 3.6

2006

18.987 2.0 65.226 7.1 23104.0 5.3 40698.7 9.3 15.990 5.6

2007

24.066 2.0 84.118 72 21981.1 5.0 44432.3 10.1 12.667 3.3

2008

26.681 2.0 92.331 7.2 23676.5 5.3 36712.9 8.3 35.768 8.4

2009

25.412 2.0 82.898 6.5 22495.9 5.0 34666.9 7.8 23.328 5.8

2010

31.626 1.9 102.039 6.2 21717.9 4.8 33930.5 7.6 28.845 5.5

2011

36.438 1.9 116.816 6.2 22045.7 4.9 34853.5 7.8 33.091 5.7

2012

36.650 2.0 112.373 6.1 22202.6 4.9 35254.8 7.8 31.833 5.8

2013

37.185 2.0 113.214 6.1 22320.2 4.9 35438.5 7.7 33.098 6.2

Source: World Travel & Tourism Council Data 2013.

75

Graph 2.13: Tourism Industry Contribution to India GDP, Employment and

Capital Investment

2.2.12. Number of Approved Hotels in the Country

The Ministry of Tourism has adopted a system of approving and classifying

the hotels on the basis of the facilities and services provided by them. The Ministry of

Tourism Launched a web based Public Service Delivery System for approval of hotel

projects and classification/re-classification of hotels on 3.4.2013 with a view to bring

in transparency in granting approvals for hotel projects and classification status to

functioning hotels. The hotel promoters and owners seek voluntary approval from the

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

In U

S$ B

illio

n

Travel & Tourism Industry Contribution to GDP

Direct

Total

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

30000

35000

40000

45000

50000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

In T

ho

usa

nd

s

Travel & Tourism Industry Contribution to Employment

Direct

Total

76

Ministry of Tourism for their projects and classification from one Star to Five Star

Deluxe by submitting applications. These requests are processed for a final decision

within 90 days from the receipt of applications.

The number of approved hotels and rooms vary from year to year as the

classification/reclassification of hotels is a voluntary scheme of the Ministry of Tourism.

The provisional category-wise details regarding the number of hotels and hotel rooms

(classified/reclassified) as on 31.12.2013 are presented in below Table 2.14.

Table 2.14: Number of Approved Hotels and Availability of Hotel Rooms in the

Country, as on 31st December, 2013.

Sl. No. Category of Hotels No. of Hotels No. of Rooms

1 One Star 86 2253

2 Two Star 122 3160

3 Three Star 634 26463

4 Four Star 114 8250

5 Five Star 86 10033

6 Five Star Deluxe 108 22173

7 Apartment Hotels 3 249

8 Time Share Resorts 1 31

9 Heritage Hotels 49 1394

10 Silver Bed & Breakfast

Establishment

6 23

11 Unclassified 33 2829

Total 1242 76858

Source: India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2013

2.2.13. Number of Operators Approved in the Country

In order to provide quality services to tourists, the Ministry of Tourism grants

recognition to inbound tour operators, travel agents, tourist transport operators,

adventure tour operators and domestic tour operators in the country, as per the

prescribed guidelines. As on 31st December 2013, 444 inbound tour operators, 288

77

travel agents, 131 tourist transport operators, 32 adventure tour operators, and 76

domestic tour operators were registered with the Ministry in their corresponding State.

The number of operators approved by the Ministry of Tourism in the Country, as on

31st December, 2013 is given in Table 2.15.

Table 2.15: Number of Operators Approved by the Ministry of Tourism in the

Country, as on 31st December, 2013.

Sl. No. Operator Nos.

1 Travel Agent 288

2 Inbound Tour Operator 444

3 Tourist Transport Operator 131

4 Adventure Tour Operator 32

5 Domestic Tour Operator 76

Total 971

Source: India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2013

2.3. Tourism Industry in Karnataka

2.3.1. Brief Profile of the State

The Karnataka state was formed in the year 1956, under the States

Reorganization Act. The state was originally called the state of Mysore and later

renamed as Karnataka in 1973. Karnataka is one of the four major southern states of

India and shares boundaries with Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Kerala, Maharashtra and

Tamil Nadu.

Karnataka is the eighth largest state in the Indian union and hosts 5% of the

national population. The state is the largest base for the IT / ITES sector and is also a

major investment destination for other sectors such as biotechnology, aerospace,

automobile, engineering, sericulture and floriculture, mining and renewable energy.

Karnataka is also the primary gold producing centre in India and the third largest

producer of steel in India.

78

The name of the land Karnataka has come from `Kari-nadu` meaning the land

of black soil say the scholars, & some others hold that `Karunadu` also means

beautiful country; either way the land is celebrated as beautiful throughout its ancient

literature. The State is situated between 740 E and 780 E longitudes and between 110 N

and 180 N latitudes.

The topography of Karnataka is largely a reflection of the geology of the state.

The Sahyadris are covered with evergreen forests. They drop abruptly towards the

Arabian Sea, thus forming a natural barrier between the plateau and the coastal

regions. Four passes provide access to the coast. They are the Subrahmanya Ghat, the

Charmadi Ghat, the Shiradi Ghat, and the famous Agumbe Ghat.

The Western Ghats slope gently towards the Bay of Bengal. This is the plateau

region drained by the two principal rivers Krishna and the Kaveri. The average

elevation of the plateau is about 610 meters above sea-level.

Karnataka's manifold attractions include everything that interests the visitors.

The wild life Sanctuaries at Bandipur, Nagarhole and Dandeli, the Ranganathittu

Bird's Sanctuary is 5 Km. from Srirangapatna which is itself a well known tourist

center, hill stations like Nandi Hills and Kemmannagundi and Mercara, beach resorts

like Karwar, Ullal, Malpe and Maravanthe, the world famous Brindavan Gardens at

Krishnarajasagara, the monolithic statue of Gommateshwara at Sharavanabelagola,

Gol Gumbaz with its whispering gallery at Bijapur, the Jog falls and other waterfalls

at Shivan Samudram, Magod, Unchelli or Lushington near Siddapur, Lalguli at

Yallapur and other places indicate the variety and richness of the attractions that

Karnataka State holds out to the visitors.

There are many places of historic and religious importance. The great

Acharyas, Shankara, Ramanuja and Madhwa, preached in this region. Great reformers

79

like Sri Basaveshwara, mathematicians like Baskaracharaya, commentators like

Sayana, saint poets like Purandaradasa and Kanakadasa, great writers like Pampa,

Harihara and Kumara Vyasa have all enriched the heritage of Karnataka.

2.3.2. Snapshot of Karnataka

The Table 2.16 gives the brief profile of Karnataka state.

Table 2.16: Snapshot of Karnataka

Category Value

Capital Bangalore (Bangaluru)

Area in square kilometre 191,791

Number of revenue divisions Number of revenue divisions -4

Number of districts- 30

Number of taluks- 176

Number of towns- 270

Major cities Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli-Dharwad,

Gulbarga

Population in million 52.7 (2001 census)

61.1 (2011 census)

Percentage of urban population of total (%) 38.6 (2011 census)

Literacy Rate (%) 75.36% as per 2011 ( 67% 2001 census)

Industrial growth rate 8%

Airports Bangalore, Mangalore

Gross domestic Product Rs. 2.71,956 crore (2010-11)

Net per capita income (current prices) Rs.60,000

Contribution to economy by sector primary sector- 16%

secondary sector- 29%

tertiary sector- 55%

Major economic sectors IT/ITES

Tourism

Biotechnology

Telecom

Electronics

Engineering

Textiles

Automotive

Agro and food processing

*source: Economic Survey- 2010-11, directorate of economics & statistics, Karnataka

80

050000

100000150000200000250000300000350000

Karnataka’s Contribution to Indian GDP (in Rs. Crore)

2.3.3. Karnataka’s Contribution to Indian GDP

The state enjoys some of the highest growth rates in terms of state GSDP and

contributes around 5% of the Indian GDP. Table 2.17, given below, provides the

Karnataka’s contribution to Indian GDP from 2004-05 to 2013-14. It can be seen that the

period 2004-05 to 2007-08 was a period of high growth. Subsequent growth trends were

however affected by the global recession that started in 2007, especially due to the slowdown

in IT / ITES exports.

Table 2.17: Karnataka’s Contribution to India GDP from 2004-05 to 2013-14

Year Karnataka’s Contribution to

Indian GDP (in Rs. Crore)

Annual Growth

Rate (%)

2004-05 166747 -

2005-06 184277 10.5

2006-07 202660 10.0

2007-08 228202 12.6

2008-09 244421 7.1

2009-10 247590 1.3

2010-11 272721 10.2

2011-12 281707 3.3

2012-13 296658 5.3

2013-14 311628 5.0

Source: directorate of economics & statistics, Government of Karnataka

Graph 2.14: Karnataka’s Contribution to India GDP from 2004-05 to 2013-14

81

2.3.4. Tourism in Karnataka

The state of Karnataka is one of the top ten domestic tourism destinations in

India and was ranked 4th in 2013. The state has various tourism assets such as

beaches, hill stations, heritage monuments, national parks, wild life sanctuaries etc.

Given the variety of the tourism assets, the state is promoted under the tagline “One

state, many worlds”.

Brief Profile of the Tourism Circuits

Destinations Covered in the Circuits

Three tourism circuits identified for the state of Karnataka are as follows:

Brief description of the destinations covered in the two tourist circuits (Phase II) have

been mentioned as below:

Circuit 1: South Karnataka Circuit

a) Bangalore- Key tourist attractions in Bangalore are Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace,

Bangalore Palace, Mayo Hall, HAL Aerospace Museum, ISKCON Temple, St.

Mary's Basilica etc.

b) Nandi Hills- It is an ancient hill fortress of southern India, in the Chikkaballapur

district. This place comprises Tipu's Drop, Tipu's Summer Palace and Fort, adventure

sports (paragliding, cycling/biking), Gavi Veerbhadra Swamy temple etc.

c) Ramanagaram- It is famous for some of the world's oldest granite outcrops,

Ramadevara Betta (for rock climbing), Janapada Loka or "Folk-culture World"

(complex with an art gallery, open-air theatre, a studio and a museum).

d) Kokkarne Bellur Pelicanry - It is a small village popular for its bird sanctuary,

home for several colourful birds including the grey-pelican that comes here from

Australia.

82

e) Bheemeshwari- It is popular for trekking, fishing camps, boat rides in River

Cauvery etc.

f) Mekedatu-Popularly known as Goat’s Leap, Mekedatu is a renowned picnic spot.

It is located at the confluence of River Cauvery and River Kollidam at Sangama.

Shivanasamudra Falls, the second largest waterfall in India, is located upstream on

Cauvery.

g) Talakad- It is relatively less explored destination, surrounded by the temples of

Lord Shiva.

h) Somnathpura- Somnathpur is considered as the village of temples and every year

attracts many pilgrims to this holy place.

i) Melkote- Melkote is known for the ancient shrine of Vishnu (Tiru Narayana). This

shrine has a very ancient association with the spiritual leader Ramanujacharya. It also

has two significant temples i.e., The Tirunarayana temple and temple of Yoga

Narasimha.

j) Srirangapatana- Srirangapatna is an egg-shaped island formed by the two

subdivisions of river Cauvery. It is one of the most important Vaishnav centres of

South India and includes tourist attractions such as Ranganathaswamy temple,

Gumbaz, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Srirangapatnam Fort.

k) Mysore- Key attractions in Mysore include Mysore Palace, Chamundi hills,

Bridavan Gardens, Jagmohan Palace, St. Philomena's Church and many more.

l) B.R. Hills- The area is called Biligiriranga Swamy Temple (BRT) Wildlife

Sanctuary. The hills are famous for the temple of Lord Ranganatha or Lord

Venkatesha .

m) Bandipur- It is a National Park and a Tiger Reserve, located in the

Chamarajanagar district. It is the largest protected area in Southern India1.

83

n) Kabini- The main activities in this wildlife tourist spot are boating in Kabini River,

Elephant Safari and Jungle Safari.

o) Talacauvery- It is a religious centre, considered to be the source of origin of River

Cauvery. It is marked by a small temple, and the area is frequented by pilgrims.

p) Bhagamandala- It is a pilgrimage place in Kodagu district

q) Madikeri- It is a popular tourist destination which includes Omkareshwara

Temple, Madikeri Fort and Raja Seat.

r) Halebid- It is home to one of the best examples of Hoysala architecture. The

temple complex comprises two Hindu temples, the Hoysaleshawara and

Kedareshwara temples and two Jain basadi.

s) Sravana Belagola- It is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in

Jainism, located in Hassan district.

Circuit 2: North Karnataka Circuit: Bangalore/ Hubli-Hampi-Badami-

Pattadakal-Aihole-Bijapur- Bidar- Gulbarga

a) Hubli- Major tourist attractions includes Chandramouleshwara Temple (Chalukya

period), Bhavanishankar Temple, Nrupatunga Hill, Unkal Lake and the Glass House.

b) Hampi- It is a World Heritage site in Hospet Taluka.

c) Badami- Badami is the site of the 6th-7th century Brahmanical and Jain cave

temples.

d) Pattadakal- This place, a group of 8th century monuments, possesses the vesara

style of Hindu temple architecture. The town displays both Dravidian and the Nagara

(Northern, Indo-Aryan) styles of temple architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage

Site.

84

e) Aihole- Aihole is a temple complex located in Bagalkot district. There are various

groups temples here, some of these are the Galaganatha group of temples and the

Kontigudi group of temples.

f) Bijapur- Major tourist attractions in Bijapur are Gol Gumbaz, Malik-e-Maidan,

Ibrahim Rauza etc.

g) Bidar- Major attractions are Bidar Fort, Narasimha Zharna (Lord Narasimha

Temple), Papnash (Shiva Temple), Tomb of Mahmmed Gawan, Sri Mailar Mallanna

temple etc

h) Gulbarga- The Bhamani Fort here is one of the most popular tourist attractions of

the place.

Circuit 3: Religious Circuit : Shravanabelagola – Dharmasthala – Ullal -

Mangalore – Venur - Mudabidri – Karkala – Horanadu – Udupi – Kollur –

Murudeshwar - Gokarna - Kanakagiri

Major tourism destinations

The major tourism destinations in Karnataka can be classified under the

following tourism themes described below:

Heritage and culture - Hampi, Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole, Mysore palace,

Srirangapatana etc

Wild life and forests - National parks at Bandipur, BR Hills, Rajiv Gandhi National

Park, Kudremukh National Park etc

Beaches – Mangalore, Karwar, Gokarna, Malpe etc

Religious destinations- Hindu temples (Kukke Subrahmanya, Kadri Manjunatha

temple, Mookambika temple etc) , Jain basadis (Moodabidri, Karkala etc) and

statues of Bahubali (Sravanabelagola, Vennur, ), Churches (St. Aloysius, Milagres),

Mosques & Dargahs (Jama Masjid, Dargah of Syeed Madani etc)

85

Adventure sports- white water rafting (Dandeli, Kemphole, Sitanadi, Netravati),

rock climbing (Ramnagar near Bangalore, Badami), trekking (Shimoga,

Chikmagalur, Hassan, Kodagu ), angling( Cauvery fishing camp), aero sports

(Hebbal in Bangalore) etc .

Hill stations and scenic spots- Coorg, Chickmagalur, Agumbe BR Hills, Nandi

Hills, Jog falls etc

City tourism & MICE tourism- Bangalore and Mysore

Karnataka is mainly known for heritage and religious tourism, especially

with reference to domestic tourists. Beach tourism is an emerging tourism

product, which is expected to become more significant. MICE (Meetings,

Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) based tourism is also expected to grow

strongly in cities such as Bangalore and Mysore.

2.3.5. Number of Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) to Karnataka in India

Table 2.18 presents the share and rank of Karnataka in domestic tourist visits

in India during the years 2005 to 2013. The domestic tourist visits have been

increasing over the years, though there was a decline in the year 2008 and 2009. The

domestic tourist visits to Karnataka witnessed a growth from 24.7 million in 2005 to

98.0 million in 2013. During 2013, the number of domestic tourist visits to Karnataka

State registered a growth of 4.21% over 2012 as compared to growth of 11.82% in

2012 over 2011. The state of Karnataka is one of the top ten domestic tourism

destinations in India and was ranked 4th in 2013.

86

Table 2.18: Number of Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) to Karnataka in India,

2004-2013

Year

No. of Domestic

Tourist Visits to

Karnataka

Percentage (%)

Change over the

Previous Year

Percentage

(%)

Share

Rank of

Karnataka in

India

2004 NA NA NA NA

2005 24698243 NA NA NA

2006 36195907 47 NA NA

2007 37825953 5 NA NA

2008 37010928 -2 NA NA

2009 32729679 -12 5.0 4

2010 38202077 17 5.2 5

2011 84107390 220.16 9.9 4

2012 94052729 11.82 9.08 4

2013 98010140 4.21 8.6 4

Source: State/ Union Territory Tourism Departments.

India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2013.

Note: NA- Not Available

Graph 2.15: Number of Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) to Karnataka in India,

2004-2013

0

20000000

40000000

60000000

80000000

100000000

120000000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

No. of Domestic Tourist Visits to Karnataka

87

2.3.6. Number of Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) to Karnataka in India

Table 2.19 presents the share and rank of Karnataka in domestic tourist visits

in India during the years 2005 to 2013. The foreign tourist visits have been increasing

over the years, though there was a decline in the years 2006, 2008 and 2009. The

domestic tourist visits to Karnataka witnessed a growth from 0.54 million in 2005 to

0.64 million in 2013. During 2013, the number of foreign tourist visits to Karnataka

State registered a growth of 6.89% over 2012 as compared to growth of 3.72% in 2012 over

2011. The Karnataka state is one of the top ten foreign tourism destinations in India

and was ranked 9th in 2013.

Table 2.19: Number of Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) to Karnataka in India,

2008-2013

Source: State/ Union Territory Tourism Departments.

India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2013

Note: NA- Not Available

Year No. of Domestic

Tourist Visits

to Karnataka

Percentage (%)

Change over

the Previous

Year

Percentage

(%)

Share

Rank of

Karnataka in

India

2004 NA NA NA NA

2005 545225 NA NA NA

2006 505524 -7.28 NA NA

2007 534563 5.74 NA NA

2008 520041 -2.72 NA NA

2009 229847 -55.80 1.7 12

2010 324573 41.60 2.1 11

2011 574005 76.85 2.9 9

2012 595359 3.72 2.9 9

2013 636378 6.89 3.2 9

88

Graph 2.16: Number of Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) to Karnataka in India,

2008-2013

2.4. Tourism Industry in Uttara Kannada District

2.4.1. District Profile

Uttara Kannada District is one of the biggest districts of our State with

abundant natural resources. The district has varied geographical features with thick

forest, perennial rivers and abundant flora and fauna and a long coastal line of about

140 KM in length. It is surrounded by Belgaum District and State of Goa in the North,

by Dharwar District in the East, by Shimoga and Udupi Districts in the South.

Arabian Sea forms the West border. In its 10.25 lakh hectares of total land, of which

8.28 lakh hectares is Forest land. And only about 1.2 lakh hectares of land (roughly

about 10%) is under agriculture / horticulture.

The District consists of 11 Talukas:

1. KARWAR 2. ANKOLA 3. KUMTA 4. HONNAVAR

5. BHATKAL 6. SIRSI 7. SIDDAPUR 8. YELLAPUR

9. MUNDGOD 10. HALIYAL 11. JOIDA

0

100000

200000

300000

400000

500000

600000

700000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

No. of Foreign Tourist Visits to Karnataka

89

It has 35 Zilla Panchayat Constituencies, 123 Taluk Panchayat Constituencies,

and 207Gram Panchayats. According to 2001 census, 9.66 lakhs of population live in

rural areas towards the total population of 13.5 lakhs. Kannada & Konkani is the

major Regional Language spoken. The cultivable land in the District is approximately

10 percent, as the forests dominate the total area.

In 2011, Uttara Kannada had population of 1,436,847 of which male and

female were 727,424 and 709,423 respectively. In 2001 census, Uttara Kannada

had a population of 1,353,644 of which males were 686,876 and remaining

666,768 were females. Uttara Kannada District population constituted 2.35 percent

of total Karnataka population. In 2001 census, this figure for Uttara Kannada

District was at 2.56 percent of Karnataka population. There was change of 6.15

percent in the population compared to population as per 2011. In the previous

census of India 2001, Uttara Kannada District recorded increase of 10.93 percent

to its population compared to 1991. Table 2.20 gives India-Karnataka-Uttar

Kannada District-A Comparative View (as per 2011 census).

Table 2.20: India-Karnataka-Uttar Kannada District-A Comparative View

(as per 2011 census)

Sl. Particulars India Karnataka Uttar

No Kannada

1. Total Area (in sq.kms) 32,87,782 1,91,791 10,222

2. Population 1,250,193,422 61,095,297 1,437,169

3. Males 623,724,248 30,966,657 726,256

4. Female 586,469,174 30,128,640 710,913

5. Rural Population 833,463,448 37,469,335 1,018,188

6. Urban 377,106,125 23,625,962 418,981

7. Decadal Growth of 15.60 6.17

Population % (2001 to 2011) 17.64

8. Density 382 319 140

9. Gender Ration 940 973 979

(Number of female per 1000

males)

10 Literacy Rate 74.04 75.36 84.06

Source: Census of India 2011.

90

Average literacy rate of Uttara Kannada in 2011 were 84.06 compared to

76.60 of 2001. If things are looked out at gender wise, male and female literacy were

89.72 and 78.21 respectively. For 2001 census, same figures stood at 84.53 and 68.47

in Uttara Kannada District. Total literate in Uttara Kannada District were 1,084,277 of

which male and female were 585,127 and 499,150 respectively. In 2001, Uttara

Kannada District had 904,024 in its district.

Apart from the natural resources the district has also got some manmade

wonders. Important among them are Hydro Electric Power Project and Nuclear Power

Project. The important Hydro Electric Power Projects are Supa Dam, Kadra Dam,

Kodasalli and Gerusoppa Dam along with their generating units and among Nuclear

Power Project, the Kaiga Nuclear Power Project is important. Uttara Kannada District

receives heavy rainfall during monsoon period.

The main rivers flowing in this district are, Karwar,Joida Taluk : Kali river,

Ankola Taluk : Gangavali river(Bedti river), Kumta,Siddapur, Sirsi Taluk :

Aghanashini river, Honnavar Taluk : Sharavati river, Bhatkal Taluk : Venkatapur

river, Sirsi Taluk : Varada river, Yellapur Taluk : Bedti river. The depth of flow of

these rivers ranges from 9' to 10' and the riverbank height is about 12' to 15'. The

Madhukeshwar Temple at Banavasi, Ulavi Channabasaveshwar Temple at Ulavi,

Siddivinayaka Temple at Idagunji, Mahabaleshwar Temple at Gokarna, Mathobara

Temple at Murdeshwar, Marikamba Temple in Sirsi are famous places of worship in

the District. Jain Basti and Swarnawalli Math Sonda, Mirjan Fort etc. are famous for

ancient monuments. Mosque at Bhatkal is also known for its marvellous designs. Folk

Arts like Suggikunitha, Holi Dance, Hulivesha, Siddi Dance are famous and

traditional. Yakshagana is also famous in the District. Though the District is located

in coastal area, it is not so famous for its marine products.

91

But activities connected with Fisheries are carried out on large scales with the

help of State Government as well as Central Government. The major population lives

in rural area undertaking agriculture as their main occupation. The main traditional

occupations are Agriculture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Sericulture, Horticulture,

Beekeeping and Leather Works etc.

The main tribes of the district are Sidhi, Kunabi, Halakki Vokkaliga, Gonda

and Gouli. Sidhis are said to have been brought by the Portuguese from Africa as

slaves some four hundred years ago. Their population is around ten thousand and are

generally found in Haliyal, Yellapur and Ankola taluks. Now their culture is

completely Indian and has adopted mainly Hindu religion. Small populations of them

are Muslims and Christians. They are extremely poor and backward and work mainly

as agriculture labourers in the fields of Havyak Brahmins. Halakki Vokkaligas living

in the foot of Western Ghats are known as the "Aboriginals of Uttara Kannada". Their

distinctiveness and backwardness are too obvious. They have administrative system

of their own and the headman is called "Gouda". Their way of living is still ancient

and need amalgamation with the main stream. The men are practically naked at home

and the women decorated with beads and necklaces, heavy nose rings have distinct

attire.

Goulis are nomadic tribes migrated from Maharashtra. They are mainly cow

and goat rearers. They stay on the fringes of forest. Some have taken up agriculture.

Kunabis are said to be the most backward of the tribals of Uttara Kannada District..

They live in small groups deep inside forests in bamboo huts built in a row sharing

common walls.

92

Not having access to the medical facilities due to seclusion, mortality rate

among them is very high. Gonds live mainly in the forests of Bhatkal taluk. They live

off forest products. They have rich folk culture of tribal dance.

The Main Languages spoken in this district is Kannada, Konkani and Marathi.

Kannada is the predominant language of the district, followed by Konkani which is

also widely spoken. Marathi is widely understood due to the prevalence of Marathi

literature and arts in this area. Urdu, Hindi and English are also used in social

communication. The population is predominantly Hindu composed of majority

communities. The main tribes of the district are Namadhari Naiks, Halakki

Vokkaligas, Kannada Vaishyas, Gudigars, Siddis, Komarpant, Shervegar Naayaks,

Nadavas, Kunabis, Gondas and Gavlis. Others are Havyaka Brahmins, Goud Saraswat

Brahmins, Padyes, Daivadnya Brahmins, Chitrapur Saraswat Brahmins, Rajapur

Saraswat Brahmins, Chitpavan Brahmins, Kudaldeshkar Gaud Brahmans, Kramavant

Joshis, Marathas, Vaishya Vanis, Konkan Marathas, Charis, Gomantak Maratha

Samaj, Nutan Maratha Samaj, Naik Maratha Samaj, Bhandaris, Kharvis, Madvals.

The people of Uttara Kannada are non-vegetarians except for Havyaka community.

Muslims are spread out in Uttara Kannada, community of Nawayath live mostly in

taluks of Bhatkal, Kumta and Honnavar. The Community speaks a dialect called

‘Nawayathi’. It is an amalgam of Persian, Arabic, Marathi and Urdu with Konkani as

its base. The Nawayath language uses Persian script for writing,it is interesting to note

that "Persian script" was being used to write by the Nawayath's long before the

language Urdu came into existence. Dakhini Muslims, Konkani Muslims and

Nawayath Muslims live together united. Uttara Kannada Muslim men are generally

light skinned, and their attire consists of Jubba (A shirt almost knee length) / Shirt,

and lungi. Women have generally adopted the local way of dressing however they

93

observe strict Burkah (Islamic Veil). Anklets and nose studs are not a common

practice. In fact it’s discouraged. Christians of Catholic and Protestant faiths are also

thinly spread over the district Goan Catholics and Karwari Catholics.

Yakshagana is a classical dance drama popular in the state of Karnataka in

India mostly popular in the districts of Uttara Kannada. Shimoga, Udupi, South

Kanara and Kasaragod district of Kerala. This theater art involves Music, Songs,

Dance, Acting, Dialogue, Story and unique costumes. While, songs and dance adhere

to well established talas very similar to classical Indian dance forms, acting and

dialogues are created spontaneously on stage depending on ability of artists.

This combination of classical and folk elements makes Yakshagana unique

from any other Indian art. This would be considered to be a form of opera in western

eyes. Traditionally, Yakshaganas use to start late in the night and run entire night.

Bagavatha, the background singer is also the directory of the story and controls the

entire proceedings on stage. Bagavatha along with background musicians who play

Chande and Maddale forms himmela. The actors who ware colorful costumes and

enact various roles in the story forms Mummela. There are many professional troops

in Karnataka. In spite of competition from modern movie industry and TV, these

troops are arranging ticketed shows and making profit. Apart from this individuals

arrange shows in their village inviting well known professional artists like Sri Chittani

Ramachandra Hegde and Kondadakuli Ramachandra Hegde, providing an opportunity

for local talents to act with legends. Yakshagana is sometimes simply called as Aataā

in both Kannada and Konkani (meaning play). Yaksha-gana literally means the song

(gana) of a Yaksha. Yakshas were an exotic tribe mentioned in the Sanskrit literature

of ancient India.

94

The chief crops of the district are Rice and Arecanut, along with a great

diversity of other crops. Tree crops include Coconut, Sugar Cane, Cocoa, Cashew,

Mango, Banana, Pineapple, Garcinia, and Sapota; vegetables include Onion, radish,

Cucumber, Cauliflower, Sweet Potato, Brinjal, and Amaranth; spices include Pepper,

Cardamom, Ginger and Nutmeg. Millet and Cotton are grown in the drier portion of

the district east of the Western Ghats.

The major products of small scale industries in Uttara Kannada are Roofing

Tiles, Coir Products, Jewelry, Food Products, Wood and Steel Furniture, Glass and

Ceramics and Seafood. Some of these SSI and Tiny industries provide Job Works,

components and spares required for large and medium scale industries, both within

and outside the district. Eight large and medium scale industries in the district produce

a variety of products like Paper, Duplex Board, Caustic Soda, Ferro Alloys,

Transmission Gears, Food Concentrate, Herbal Medicines and Pharmaceuticals.

2.4.2. Uttara Kannada District milestones

Kali Nadi Hydro Electric Project (KPCL): Like the Goddess Kali, after whom

it is named, the Kalinadi is a black river. And like the Powerful goddess, this river

too, releases endless energy. The west flowing Kalinadi has its origin at an elevation

of 900m, near the Diggi Village in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Its 160-km long

journey ends at the Arabian Sea near Karwar.

The estimated power potential of the river is about 1700MW, with an annual

yield of 6500 MU. So far, 1210 MW has been harnessed from two stages. NPCL,

Kaiga Nucelar Power station established at Kaiga by Nuclear Power Corporation Ltd,

is one of very few in India. It was commissioned on March 5, 2000. This 220 MW

Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) at Kaiga is indigenously designed, meets

the latest safety standards and has state-of-the-art technology including

95

computerized controls. It went critical in September 99, and is now synchronized to

the grid. That apart, this nuclear power plant also incorporates a full-scope

simulator for superior and comprehensive training of operators. This, and its

companion unit at Kaiga, will augment power supply to the southern grid.

Project Seabird: Project Seabird is the prestigious Indian Navy project of

construction of Naval Base. The Project is progressing at a record speed and the first

phase is likely to be complete by June 2005. The first phase work consists of 1.8 Km

break water joining Anjadeep island to the main land, a 3.2 kms breakwater from

Arga island to round island running north- south and channel 300mtrs wide and 14

mtrs deep for the ships to move into the harbour. It will have state of the art dockyard

with shiplift feature to carry the ships to the repair yard. There will be a Naval airport

too near Algeri. Along with these the project will have accommodation for Officers

and sailors, an Administrative block, a 100-bed hospital, ammunition depot etc.

2.4.3. Month wise Domestic Tourist Arrivals (DTAs) to Uttara Kannada District

Table 2.21 gives the month-wise domestic tourist arrivals to Uttara Kannada

district during 2013 as well as comparative figures for 2012 and 2011. During the

year 2013, December has been the peak month for domestic tourist arrivals to Uttara

Kannada district followed by November, October, September, May, August, April,

July, March, June, February and January has been the leanest month. This is generally

consistent with the pattern in 2011 and 2012 also.

96

Table 2.21: Month wise Domestic Tourist Arrivals (DTAs) in Uttara Kannada

District, 2011-2013

Source: Department of Tourism, Uttara Kannada, manual reports 2011-13.

Month Domestic Tourist Arrivals (DTAs) in Uttara Kannada District

2011

2012

2013

Percentage (%) Change

2012/2011 2013/2012

January 69256 72255 90300 4.3 25.0

February 62500 68200 126600 9.1 85.6

March 96690 120550 180300 24.7 49.6

April 126955 200725 273295 58.1 36.2

May 125063 200290 350550 60.2 75.0

June 96930 92550 135300 -4.5 46.2

July 90775 96480 188625 6.3 95.5

August 120065 150660 280400 25.5 86.1

September 188071 325560 410200 73.1 26.0

October 202771 433380 560480 113.7 29.3

November 208343 400550 900430 92.3 124.8

December 706360 884200 1080400 25.2 22.2

Total 2093779 3045400 4576880 45.4 50.3

97

Graph 2.17: Month wise Domestic Tourist Arrivals (DTAs) in Uttara Kannada

District, 2011-2013

2.4.4. Month wise Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) to Uttara Kannada District

Table 2.22 gives the month-wise foreign tourist arrivals in Uttara Kannada

district during 2013 as well as comparative figures for 2012 and 2011. During the

year 2013, December has been the peak month for foreign tourist arrivals in Uttara

Kannada district followed by August, July, November, May, October, June, April,

September, February, March and January has been the leanest month.

0

200000

400000

600000

800000

1000000

1200000

Month Wise Domestic Tourist Arrivals (DTAs) in Uttara Kannada District, 2011-2013

2011 2012 2013

98

Table 2.22: Month wise Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in Uttara Kannada

District, 2011-2013

Source: Department of Tourism , Uttara Kannada, manual reports 2011-13.

Month Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in Uttara Kannada District

2011

2012

2013

Percentage (%) Change

2012/2011 2013/2012

January 834 844 855 1.2 1.3

February 1082 1050 1090 -3.0 3.8

March 942 1058 945 12.3 -10.7

April 1123 1100 1400 -2.0 27.3

May 2025 2550 2505 25.9 -1.8

June 2105 3550 2050 68.6 -42.2

July 3025 3625 3560 19.8 -1.8

August 2525 2475 3650 -2.0 47.8

September 927 1150 1360 24.0 18.3

October 947 1200 2475 26.7 106.3

November 3790 3460 3550 -8.7 2.6

December 4390 4430 4845 0.9 9.6

Total 23715 26492 28285 11.7 6.8

99

Graph 2.18: Month wise Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in Uttara Kannada

District, 2011-2013

2.4.5. Tourism Destinations

Table 2.23: Distance to Important Locations from Karwar

Yana - 90 Km Murudeshwara - 111 Km

Gokarna - 60 Km Sathoddi Falls - 128 Km

Idagunji - 100 Km Magod Falls - 115 Km

Sirsi Marikamba Temple - 120 Km Unchalli Falls - 131 Km

Banavasi Temple - 143 Km Ulavi Temple - 90 Km

Karwar:

Tagore Beach: The district headquarters and a port town are superb in its

scenic beauty. The crescent shaped ‘Tagore Beach’ can match any beach in the world.

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

Month wise Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in Uttara Kannada District, 2011-2013

2011 2012 2013

100

It has also a recreational park, colourful music fountain, Toy train, Planetorium, an

aquarium to add to its attraction. River Kali joins and forms ‘sangam’ at the end of the

beach. To view sun set on the bridge across River Kali is an unforgettable experience.

Devbag: 7 Kms from Karwar it is located near the confluence of River Kali. It

is a picturesque island fringed with casuarina groves. Approach is mainly through

boat from Kodibag jetty. Jungle Lodges & Resorts provides unique experience of

living in Log huts. Ensures wonderful privacy not normally seen in tourist spots. JLR

provides scuba diving experience too. Various water sports is also being planned

which would make the stay more entertaining.

Shejjeswar Temple, Shejwad: 4 Kms from Karwar, Shejwad boasts of a

thousaqnd year old ancient temple of Shejjeswar or Siddeswar.

The temple is said to be one of the five temples of Gokarna mythology where pieces

of Atmalinga which Ravan was carrying, fell; the other four being Gokarn,

Murudeswar, Dhareswar and Gunavanteswar. Devotees visit the temple in thousands

on Mahashivaratri day.

Shanta Durga temple, Sadashivagad: Sadashivagad is situated at 6 Kms from

Karwar on the northern bank of River Kali. Crossing the magnificent Kali bridge you

reach Sadashivagad, a place of historical importance. There are ruins of old fort of

Sonda kings. Midway on the Sadashivagad hill is the 600 yrs old Shantadurga

Temple, known for its serenity. From the peak of the hill, the view of the sun setting

in the Arabian sea, is an experience in itself. There is also a 17th century Darga which

attracts a lot of Muslim pilgrims. A Yatri nivas is being built on top of the hill by

Dept. of Tourism.

Kurumgad Island: 4 Kms from Karwar shore is the Kurumgad island. There is

Narasimha temple atop the hill in the island where an annual fair takes place. Scores

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of boats ply to the island on that day. The island is a private island. The owner is

running a resort called The Great Outdoors in the island. It is a wonderful picnic spot

and could get experience of a lifetime if one could stay.

Guddalli Peak: 6 Kms from Karwar, located at 1800 feet above sea level, the

peak gives a panoramic view of the Karwar and the sea. Extremely cool round the

year, it was a summer resort for the British. It is one of the highest peaks of

Haiderghat range which stretches east and west between Kali river and Belikeri river

and joins the Kaiga range at Kaiga. Guddehalli raises conspicuous for miles, an abrup

sheet of granite with thickly wooded sides and a bare tapering point. A five kilometre

trekking through mountain jungle crossing brooks and springs, takes you to this spot.

The trek itself is a bonanza of enthralling experience.

Katyayani Temple, Aversa: About 8 kms north of Ankola, 25 Kms from

Karwar, Aversa has a famous Katyayani Temple. The distinct feature of this temple is

that the shrine is in the shape of a ship. It is family godess of Kharvis, a fishermen

clan. The image of godess is said to have been found in the sea. The godess is

worshipped with great solemnity during the nine nights of ‘Navarathri’ which precede

‘Dussera’ in October. Besides Kharvis the festival is solemnly attended by many

dancing-girls and Konkanis.

Belekeri Beach: Moving towards Mangalore from Karwar on the National

Highway, you have to take a deviation after 22 kms and proceed 4 kms to reach

Belekeri Beach. You will not regret the detour. The vast grass lawn suddenly drops by

50’ to the beach providing a wonderful view of the sea. The land is surrounded by

picturesque mountains. Watching sunset in the evening you would never like to leave

the place.

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Gokarna: Gokarna a very popular pilgrimage is known as Dakshina Kashi.

Mythology says, Ravana kept the Athmalinga down on the ground against the

instructions and could not lift it again. Hence the belief that Gokarn is Lord Shiva’s

permanent abode. Kotitheertha is the holy pond near the temple. Devotees usually

take bath in the pond before they enter the temple for pooja. Work of Cleaning up of

the pond is being taken up.

Om Beach: The Om Beach, named because of its shape, is 11 kms from

Gokarn. Foreign tourists because of its seclusion and the privacy it offers regularly

throng it. Adjacent to this beach are Half Moon beach and Paradise beach. Kudle

beach is another beach nearby which is popular with foreigners.

Yana: 28 Kms from Kumta and 65 Km from Sirsi, Yana is a nature’s wonder. Known

for two gigantic rock formations of a height of 90 meters and 120 meters called

Mohini Shikhara and Bhairaveshwara Shikhara. Encircled by thickly wooded forest, it

is a trekker’s paradise. You can eliminate your fatigue by bathing in the beautiful

cascades coming down the hill. Bhaireshwar temple, and a cave inside the rock

formation are added attractions.

Alvekodi Beach: Almost touching the Kumta town, towards south is Alvekodi

village. One has to go through the fields to reach the beach. The beach is truly

pristine, unspoilt. The white sand dazzles in the sun. Nearby is the Bhrahma devara

gudda, with dilapidated old lighthouse. The hillock is a great picnic spot offering

memorable sunset view.

Dhareswar: Dhareswar is about 8 kms south east of Kumta. On the hill slope is

Mahadev temple, said to be around 800 years old. There are four inscribed tablets in

the temple. It appears that the construction of temple was started by Rudroji Pandit

and completed by Sonappa somewhere between 1500 and 1559. The temple is built of

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black stone and its walls are ornamented with sculptures. Round the temple are 5 holy

pools, Rudra kund, Chakra, Shankh, Vasudha and Nagatirth. A fair is held every year

in the middle of January.

St. Francis Xavier Church, Chandavar: Chandavar once a big city, is said to

have been built by a Muslim King Sarpan Malik (apparently Sherif-ul-Mulk a

General of Bijapur Kingdom). The city declined during the later part of 17th century.

St. Francis Xavier Church is a large Roman Catholic Church is held in great

veneration by local populace of all communities. The original church of St. Francis

Xavier is recorded to have been built in 1678 during the reign of Basappa Nayak of

Keladi Nayak dynasty. The church was destroyed in the end of 18th century which is

attributed to Tippu Sultan, and was rebuilt in 1801. The church was rebuilt a second

time in 1874. The old church, though an imposing edifice was judged to be beyond

normal repairs, and so a new church was built in the area adjacent to the old church.

Kadra: Right at the foot of Western Ghats, Kadra is little of gem nature’s

beauty. It became famous due to the dam across Kali river and its powerhouse. A

beautiful park with fountains, cascades, caves, colourful trees and plants, rose garden,

and a unique vedic garden depicting sun signs, planets, rain stars is coming up. Water

sports is also being planned in the reservoir. Mahamayi temple near Kadra is an

ancient and very popular temple, which is visited by people from afar. The temple is

situated inside the forest and has blissful atmosphere. Riveredge Paradise Resort

Located at Hankon village 12 Kms from Karwar is River Paradise Resort. The clear

waters of River Kali flow past the resort.

Anashi Wild Life Sanctuary: Anashi pass is in the Sahyadri Range (Western

Gahats) 40 Kms north east of Karwar. From Kadra to Anashi is a 10 Kms of steep

ghat section, through thick forest. Motoring through the ghat is an experience in itself

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with thick jungle, number of big and small waterfalls which are feast to the eyes. Wild

life abound in the area. Early mornings you are bound to came across, vixen, wild

fowl and flocks of peacocks. Quite often you can say hello to a panther crossing the

road. Forest department have started Anashi Nature Camp, 3 kms from Anashi in the

Wild Life Sanctuary.

You can enjoy the beauty of Nature in Deluxe tents (Rs.400 – 2 beds) or

ordinary Tents (Rs. 200 – 2 beds) Kitchen and staff are provided and you can get the

food prepared.

Channabasaveshwara Temple, Ulavi: Originally a temple of Chalukya style, it

has been renovated and coloured. The pyre of the temple is adorned with statues of

Shiva Sharanas (Devotees of Lord Shiva). A very famous Jatra is held on ‘Megha

Purnima’ with great pomp. Free lunch and dinner is served to devotees every day.

About 6 kms from Ulavi through a wonderful trekking path amidst hills and

trees, one can see some interesting caves. They have their own stories of religious

significance to tell. The pictures adjacent and below are “Akala Gavi” and

Panchalingeshwar gavi.

Murdeshwar: 16 Kms from Bhatkal to the north on Honnavar-Bhatkal NH 17.

The famous Mahtobara Temple can today boast of the tallest Shiva statue in the

world. The statue has special reflecting eyes, which makes statue alive. The temple on

the beach itself attracts a large number of tourists because of the sea shore ambience.

Apsara Konda, Honnavar: 8 Kms from Honnavar, near the confluence of the

Sharavathi river and the Sea, there a small water fall and a pool on a hillock, called

Apsara Konda. Legend says that the Apsaras (Heavenly fairies) used to come here to

bathe and relax. The place truly exudes heavenly beauty. There is Devi temple and a

branch of Ramachandra mutt. There are several big caves on the hillock called

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‘Pandavas caves’.With a view of the river, the sea, lthe islands, l;the lush green fields

and coconut groves, the Apsarkonda hillock verily offers a feast to the eyes that see.

Idagunji: 15 Kms from Honnavar and around 23 kms from Murdeswar is the ancient

Idagunji Ganapati Temple. One has to take a detour from National Highway and

travel around 7 kms interior to reach this beautiful temple. The temple is said to be

around 800 years old, one of the oldest temples in Uttar Kannada district.

Basavaraja Durga Island: The Island of Basavaraja Durga is about a km from

main land off Honnavar. You can reach the island through boats and small coasters.

The landing place is at the south end where there is a ruined fort with eight mounted

guns. The fort was built by Great Shivappa Naik of Bednur (1648-1670). The island is

mostly level and has plenty of fresh water.

Karikannamma Temple: 12 Kms from Honnavar is the Karikannamma Hill.

Atop the hill which is a piece of natural beauty and offers panoramic view of the

surroundings, is the temple of the deity. This deity is worshipped as different goddess

by different people as Durge, Saraswati and Bhairavi. Sunset view on the Arabian sea

is a enthralling sight.

Higund Island: Higund is a beautiful island in River Sharavati just before it

joins the Arabian Sea. 3 kms from Honnavar – Bangalore National Highway brings

you along this island. Presently the approach is from either Adkar village or Kodani

village through country boat. The sunset view from this island is a lifetime

experience.

Gerusoppa / Nagara bastikeri: Situated on bank of river Sharavati the old town

of Gerusoppa also called NAGAR BASTIKERI is rich with historical monuments, the

Chaturmukha basti being the most prominent one. It is a beautiful structure built in

Vijayanagar style with Chaturasara plan. It has four entrances from four directions

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leading to garbhagrihas. There are four images of Tirthankaras, Vrishabha, Ajita,

Sambhava and Abhinandan, seated in padmasana. One of this has been of late

damaged. The engravings in this basti of dwarapalas and other mural desigtns are well

executed with refinement.

Gerusoppa Valley / Reservoir: Newly constructed Gerusoppa dam has created

a unique reservoir in gerusoppa valley. The breath taking view of the valley can be

had from atop a observation tower constructed by Forest dept, about 10 kms from

Gerusoppa towards Jogfalls. Boat cruise in the reservoir through the valley is on the

anvil.

Haduvalli: 16 Kms from Bhatkal on the Bhatkal shimoga SH, Theerthankara

Bastil at Haduvalli is a 14th century Jain temple. 24 Theerthankara idols are installed

there. The place was formerly capital of the queen Channabyra Devi. There are two

hills Chandragiri and Indragiri which attract the tourists for scenic beauty.

Bhatkal: 40 Kms south of Honnavar, Bhatkal was the south most port in

Bombay presidency. It is place of historical and archaeological interest. There are 13

temples / bastis built during the 15th and 16th centuries. Each one is a marvel in

sculpture and worth visiting. But most of them are in dilapidated state. The

important ones are, Adike Narayan Temple: Small stone temple. The Ashtadikpalakas

are carved on the roof.

Kamati Narayan Temple: Built in 1550. It has an inscribed stone.

Choleshwar Temple: Black basalt temple with beautiful carvings built by

Cholamandala. It has tamil inscriptions.

Chandrakanteshwar Basti: It is largest and finest Jain Temple in Bhatkal. The

building is two storyed with length 112 feet and has an ‘agrashala’ and ‘bhogmantap’

The dhwaja stamb is an elegant single block 21’ high stone column raising from a

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platform of about fourteen feet square. Behind the basti is a smaller pillar 19’ high

called ‘yakshabhrahma kambh’.

Venkataramana temple: It is said to be 400 yrs old. It is ornamented with

sculptures.

Other temples are, Shankar Narayan Temple, Khetapai Narayan Temple,

Narasimh temple, Parshwanatheswar temple, Raghunath temple, Tirumal temple,

Shanteshwar temple, Shambhuling temple, Murgopinath temple, and Chaturmukha

basti.

Dandeli: Dandeli, surrounded by thick jungle with River Kali dashing through

furiously, is a nature lover’s paradise. Jungle Lodges Resorts has a fine tourist

complex called ‘Kali Wilderness and Adventure Camp’. This is the only place in

South India where tourists are offered white water rafting. The Bison River resort on

the banks of River Kali near Ganeshgudi is another place of sojourn for the tourists.

The resort offers facilities to carry the tourists to see wildlife at Phanasoli, Kavala

caves etc. It also offers river rafting facilities along with JLR at Dandeli.

Kavala Caves: Kavala caves or Siddan cave is situated at a distance of 27 Kms

from Joida and 3200 feet above the sea level. About 150 feet inside the cave a Shiva

Linga is present. A small stream of water falls on the Shiva Linga, which gives the

feeling that an ‘abhishekha’ is performed to Lord Shiva. Shivarathri day is when

devotees come in thousands.

Sintheri Rocks: 20 Kms from Joida , at Sintheri Temple, River Kaseri flows

with great speed before joining River Kali. Currents of water have formed beautiful

rock caves and have created small cascades in the valley attracting a great number of

tourists. From Dandeli village Gund is 3 kms. At Gund one has to step down some

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133 steps to reach Sintheri rock which is 400 feet in height and 600 feet in width.

Water flows around this sand stone round the year.

Dood Sagar Falls / Castle Rock: Castle Rock is border village of the district

beyond which is Goa. 10 Kms from Castle rock in the middle of thick forest, along

the railway track, the Doodh Sagar falls gives a feast to the tourists eyes. The area is

also a “trekker’s paradise”, in every sense.

Sykes Point, Ambikanagar: Sykes Point, named after British Collector Sykes,

is a breathtaking spot where one can seek unhindered view of the Kali River flowing

through the valley below. Nagajhari Power house situated at the bottom of this peak

can also be seen.

Haliyal, Shivaji Fort: This ancient fort said to be built by Chatrapati Shivaji is

beautiful image of Indian history which gives us a glimpse of the warring techniques

of those times. The fort was later occupied by Sangolli Rayanna, a legendary small

king, who fought with the British.

Sri Tulaja Bhavani Temple, Haliyal: This beautiful temple was established on

16th March 1996, by Sri Tulaja Bhavani Education and Dharmadatti trust, Haliyal,

The 4 feet black stone idol of Godess Bhavani was carved in Sivar town, Kolar

district. Thousands of devotees from all over Karnataka and states of Maharashtra and

Goa visit this temple every day.

Marikamba Temple, Sirsi: Sirsi is a taluk head quarters, and being on slopes of

Western Ghats, is very different in weather from the coastal taluks of Uttara Kannada

dist. The temple Marikamba here is one of the most popular places of religious

significance. The present statue of ‘Devi’ was installed in 1669. The temple itself is

more than 300 years old. The ‘Devi’ is worshipped as ‘Amba” the mother. The

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Marikamba jatra which is held once in every two years is one of the largest jatras in

the state.

Banavasi: 24 kms from Sirsi, Banavasi is a historical village. Madhukeswar

Temple and Madhumathi (Parvati) Temple are summit of Kadamba art. The tall

Nandis of the temple are famous. The honey coloured Madhukeswar linga shines even

in darkness. Another attraction is a stone cot carved from a singles stone and many

statues of sculptural beauty. There is also a small museum. The river Varada flowing

in front of the temple adds to the Ambience.

Sonda: 20 Kms from Sirsi towards yellapur is Sonda village which was the

capital of Sondhe Kings. During Arasappa Nayaka II many maths wer established

here. Among them Vadiraj math, Akalank math, Swarnavalli math are famous.

Swarnavalli math is a seat of learning vedic scriptures.

Sahasra Linga: Sahasralinga is situated amidst river Shalmala near Bhairumbe

village.Shivalingas around thousand are believed to have been built by King of Swady

to get children. There are also basavas and other artistic forms carved on the rocks of

the river. It is also believed that there was a school art here in ancient time.

Shivaganga Falls: 39 Kms from Sirsi, one has to cross thick forest to reach this spot.

The Shalmala river falls in to a deep valley from a height of 74 meter creating an

enchanting waterfalls. The river valley presents a captivating view. A little further

from the falls is an island locally called Ganeshpal because of a small Ganesh statue

in the isla.

Jenukallu Gudda: Situated at a distance of 20 kms from Yellapur, it offers

break taking view of valley covered with virgin forests and majestically flowing River

Bedti. The view point is atop a sheer cliff of 450 mtrs high. People normally visit this

spot at the time of sun set which transforms the whole valley to a fairy place.

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Satodi Falls: 30 Kms from Yellapur, at village Kattige, rivulet Dabbisal jumps

in two stages from a height of 32 meters forming a beautiful brad water fall.

Surrounded by green thick forest the waterfall attracts a large number of tourists. The

expanse of backwaters of Kodasalli dam can be viewed from here and is an additional

attraction.

Unchalli Falls: The rivulet that originates at Shankarathirtha in Sirsi and

Manjaguni rivulet join together to form the Aghanashini river. Near Unchalli this

river jumps from a height of 116 meters creating a beautiful water fall.

G.D.Lushington , Collector of Canara first discovered this water fall and used to visit

this spot frequently and hence this falls is also called Lushington Waterfall. It is

popular among the locals as Keppa Jog (deafening) since the fall exudes a thunder

like deafening noise while falling.

Burude Jog: 30 Kms from Siddapur a small rivulet called Ilimane at first falls

to a depth of 60 meters and a little further it jumps again to a depth of 48 meters

creating two beautiful waterfalls. The fall is in the middle of a thick forest.

Jog Falls: River Sharavati taking birth at Ambutirtha in Tirthahalli tq, flows

towards western direction causing the world famous water fall at Jog. 22 Kms from

Siddapur the Jog falls is at the border of Uttara Kannda district and Shimoga districts.

River Sharavati plunges here to a depth of 252 meters in deep gorge and has created

117 meter deep well beneath. The four streams are called Raja, Roarer, Rocket and

Rani.

Attiveri Bird Sanctuary: 19 Kms from Mundgod one has to take a diversion on

Mundgod – Hublic road to reach Attiveri. Migratory birds from Central Asia,

Northern Africa and European countries find serene Attiveri a congenial place to

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breeding from October to March. Painted Storks are special attraction. Sun set view is

an extravagant bonus.

Doeguling Tibetan Settlement: The Gaden Jangtse Monastic University for

Advanced Budhist Learning & Practice which had become near extinct Tibet, was

rebuilt on the Indian soil at Doeguling Tibetan Settlement, Mundgod. The

construction of New Monastic University building started on June 1998 and was

inaugurated on 19 Dec 2001. This majestic building is the biggest monastery in Asia.

Inside the prayer hall is a 21’ tall statute of Lord Buddha. Besides this there are

statues of Green Tara (10’), Maitrieya Buddha (15’), Manjushri Buddha (15’) and

Chenrezig statue.

Uttara Kannada is famous for a variety of seafood delicacies. Fish curry and

rice is the staple diet of the locals. The staple diet includes a portion of steamed Rice

and a vegetable and/or seafood accompaniment. Seafood is immensely popular due to

its ease of availability, and is prepared with a lot of local spices. Tea is the most

popular beverage and is sometimes supplemented with cardamom or mint to give

them a distinct flavour.

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2.4.6. Means of Transport

The various means of transport to reach Uttara Kannada district are shown

below.

Table 2.24: Means of Transport to Uttara Kannada District

Road

• NH-17 which connects Edappally near Kochi and Panvel near Mumbai,

which Start in the north of the district at Majali village & ends at Bhatkal.

• NH-206 which connects Honnavar and Tumkur connecting NH4 Pune-

Bangalore highway.

• NH-63 which connects Ankola and gooty (Andra Pradesh).

• NH-4A which connects Belgaum and Goa Via Ramnagar of

Supa(Joida) Taluk.

Rail • Konkan Railway which connects Mangalore and Mumbai via Karwar

• Londa to 'Vasco Railway line which passes through Castle Rock

Air

• Hubli Airport 160 Kms

• Belgaum Airport 160 Kms

• Goa International Airport 100 Kms

• Mangalore International airport 280 Kms

Sea • Karwar Sea Port

Public Transport

North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) is the state

transport agency in the district. The NWKRTC covers all towns & villages of the

district. There is a good network of public transport which connects the villages to the

towns of the district. There are regular intra state services to major cities & towns of

the state like Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli-Dharwad & Belgaum. The

Kadama Transport buses of neighboring Goa state provides regular service from

Karwar to Mangalore and all part of Goa state. Kumta,Bhatkal & Sirsi are the main

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hubs for public transport which provides services to intra-district & intrastate round

the clock.

Many private transport buses also provide services for inter / intra state from

the district. Bhatkal is the main sector for private transport in the district. The NH-17

which passes through the district which connects Mumbai to Kerala state, many

private buses are plying on this Highway which provides inter-intra state services to

places like Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, Belgaum, Panaji, Margao, Udupi,

Mangalore,Bhatkal, Kasaragod & Kannur etc.

Highways

The following are the National Highways which passes through the district of

Uttara Kannada.

NH-66 which connects Edappally near Ernakulam in Kerala and Panvel near

Mumbai, which start in the north of the district at Majali village & ends at Bhatkal.

NH-206 which connects Honnavar and Bengaluru.

NH-63 which connects Ankola and Hubli.

NH-17A which connects Dandeli and Vasco.

Railways

The following Railways pass through the district:

Konkan Railway which connects Mangalore and Mumbai via Karwar,

Londa to 'Vasco Railway line which passes through Castle Rock

Casle rock to Dandeli Railway line.

Hubli -Ankola railway line is proposed to link Karwar port and the northern

Karnataka.

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RO-RO (Roll on/Roll off) services is provided by Konkan Railway to / from

Ankola railway station to Suratkal Railway station. Many truckers use this facility

between Ankola to Mangalore.

Ports

Uttara Kannada being one of the coastal district of the Karnataka state has a

coast of 120 kilometres (75 mi) has many ports which are used for Sea Trade, Naval

base, Fishing & other maritime activities.

Karwar Port is an intermediate sea port the main activities of this port are Berthing

of Ocean Going Ships, Coastal Shipping, & Fishing Jetty. Ship bunkering facility

is also available at Karwar port.

INS Kadamba is a naval base at Arga village of Karwar which is used exclusively

for berthing of naval vessels. A naval ship repair yard (Dry Docks) is also

attached to it.

Belkeri Port is an anchorage port.

Tadri Port is a fishing port.

Kumta Port is a fishing port.

Honnavar Port is a fishing port.

Bhatkal Port is a fishing port.

The Proposed Hubli-Ankola railway line can be feasible venture for the future

developments of the ports in the district, for movement of the cargo, at present roads

are only major mode of cargo movement which leads to congestion of the National

Highways of the district.