karnatakatourism.orgkarnatakatourism.org/policy/KTP_Guidelines.pdf · 2 Disclaimer The Operational Guidelines are comprehensive and cover definitions of each product, the basic minimum

ANNEXURE TO GOVERNMENT ORDER NO: PRAE 128

PRAVAYO 2015 DATED 23-05-2016

Operational Guidelines for Project Approval and claiming subsidy

and incentives under Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015-20

2

Disclaimer

The Operational Guidelines are comprehensive and cover definitions of each

product, the basic minimum project requirement to be followed by the tourism

entities for claiming various incentives and subsidies under the Karnataka

Tourism Policy 2015-2020. The contents in the operational guidelines reflect the

current rules and practice and do not prejudge possible developments during the

enforcement.

Like all such documents, these Guidelines have to be seen as a reference, and

would need periodical updating and modifications from time to time. Meanwhile,

the concerned officers as well as the applicants can use the guidance provided

as a reference manual to assess the applicants’ eligibility and basic minimum

project requirement for applying to or availing various incentives and subsidies.

Care has been taken to avoid mistakes and errors in the Operational Guidelines.

However, if any such instance has unfortunately crept in, the same may be

brought to notice for rectification in the next edition. Suggestions for the

improvement may also be sent to the Director Tourism, Government of

Karnataka.

3

Table of contents

A. Introduction ................................................................................................. 4

B. Guidelines for Development of Tourism Products in Karnataka ................. 6

1. Guidelines for Hotels & Resorts .............................................................. 6

2. Guidelines for Caravan Park ................................................................. 12

3. Guidelines for Museum & Gallery .......................................................... 21

4. Guidelines for Eco-Tourism ................................................................... 26

5. Guidelines for Rural Tourism Project .................................................... 36

6. Guidelines for Agri Tourism Centre ....................................................... 43

7. Guidelines for Cruise Tourism ............................................................... 51

8. Guidelines for Adventure Tourism ......................................................... 58

9. Guidelines for Entertainment Parks ....................................................... 66

10. Guidelines for Wayside Amenities ......................................................... 72

11. Guidelines for Yatri Niwas ..................................................................... 79

12. Guidelines for Dormitories/ Youth Hostel (Yuva Vasatigraha) ............... 85

13. Guidelines for Wellness/ Holistic Health Centre .................................... 91

14. Guidelines for Tourist Interpretation Centre .......................................... 95

15. Guidelines for Tourist Information Kiosk ............................................. 101

16. Guidelines for Tourist Information Centre ........................................... 106

17. Guidelines for Vocational Training Institute ......................................... 112

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A. Introduction

Tourism is currently the largest and fastest growing industry in the world. The

industry has emerged as one of the leading sectors that have enhanced the

contribution to Karnataka’s economy. Karnataka has been witnessing a

tremendous influx of international and domestic tourists that has added to foreign

exchange earnings. Therefore, increased demand for accommodation coupled

with need for elevated authentic experience has led to tourism infrastructure

gaining importance.

Department of Tourism (DoT), Government of Karnataka (GoK) is undertaking

various initiatives to promote tourism sector and facilitate private investment in

the sector. One of the major initiatives is the launching of Karnataka Tourism

Policy 2015-20, a very forward looking policy to assist and encourage tourism

development in the state. Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 20 focuses on

developing tourism projects and tourism related services by facilitating the

private sector and local entrepreneurs through availing various attractive

incentives and concessions. This requires a set of comprehensive and well

drafted operational guidelines for the department to streamline the process. This

document illustrates the guidelines and requirement for applying for a particular

subsidy. The Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020 has been approved by GO PraE 81

PraVaYo 2014, Bangalore dated 26th March 2015 and has come into force from

the date of issue of enabling Government order. The policy will be in operation

for five years or as revised by the Government. Once the Karnataka Tourism

Policy 2015-20 comes into operation, the earlier Tourism Policy 2009 – 2014

which was stated to be in force till 19 – 10 – 2014 vide order no. KaSamVaPra

231 PraVaYo 2007, Bangalore dated 20th October 2009, has ceased to have

effect. However, entities which have been sanctioned and have partly availed the

incentives and concessions under earlier policy shall continue to enjoy those

benefits as per sanctioned orders.

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The following products have been identified in Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 –

2020:

Sl.

No.

Tourism Product Sl.

No.

Tourism Product

1. Hotels & Resorts 10. Wayside Amenity

2. Caravan Parks 11. Yatri Niwas

3. Museums & Galleries 12. Dormitories / Youth Hostel

(YuvaVasatigraha)

4. Eco-Tourism Project 13. Wellness/ Holistic Health Centre

5. Rural Tourism Project 14. Tourist Interpretation Centre

6. Agri-Tourism 15. Tourist Information Kiosk

7. Cruise Tourism 16. Tourist Information Centre

8. Adventure Tourism 17. Vocational Training Institutes

(Training and HRD Infrastructure)

9. Entertainment Park 18. Homestays

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B. Guidelines for Development of Tourism Products in Karnataka

1. Guidelines for Hotels & Resorts

I. Definitions

‘Hotel’ is an establishment providing accommodation, meals, and other services

for travelers and tourists, in tourist destinations of the state.

‘Resort’ shall include a hotel and is a place used for relaxation, recreation,

attracting visitors for vacations and/or tourism.

The Hotels and Resorts shall provide accommodation facilities for tourists with at

least 20 rentable rooms with attached bathrooms.

II. Project Requirements

Following parameters would be mandatory for hotels and resorts:

i. Site Requirements

a. The site shall be suitably located and easily accessible to tourists/

visitors.

b. Minimum site area shall be 6000 sq.ft.

c. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

ii. Rooms/Bathrooms

a. Minimum 20 rentable rooms with either 20 double beds or 40 beds (in

case of twin bed configuration) capacity with attached bathrooms.

b. Room and bathroom size will be minimum150 sq.ft. and 40 sq.ft.

respectively.

c. Rooms should have adequate furniture, fixtures and clean linen.

iii. Common Facilities

Other common facilities that need to be provided:

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a. Well defined entrance leading to waiting lobby, front desk or reception

and tourism information kiosk.

b. All hotels shall have a restaurant with kitchen. Seating area of

restaurant/dining hall should be provided as per applicable bylaws.

c. A conference hall is desirable for hotel projects.

d. Parking area should be provided as per applicable building bylaws.

e. Provision of Lift in case the structure is more than Ground + 2 levels.

f. Provision of first-aid, readily accessible to the tourists.

g. 24 hours security and CCTV facility.

h. Power back up system is to be provided in the entire facility to provide

uninterrupted power supply.

i. 24 hour uninterrupted hot and cold water supply should be provided in

bathroom.

iv. Other Design and operational Requirements

a. The Facility shall be mandatorily designed for easy access by the

differently abled users (wheel chair accessible).

b. The hotel or resort must encourage water preservation through rain

water harvesting.

c. Maintenance and service team such as electrician, plumber,

sweeper, etc should be available.

d. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,

Government of Karnataka’ shall be displayed along with the

Karnataka Tourism logo at the entrance of the property.

e. Municipal solid waste management practices to be adopted.

f. Using solar or LED lights in the hotel or resort for cost effective and

efficient use of energy.

v. Optional Facilities

Optional Facilities for providing a better quality service to the tourists:

a. Telephone with long distance (out of State) calling facility.

b. Internet and Wi – Fi facility in all rooms.

c. Availability of toilets in the common area.

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d. Installation of Sewage Treatment Plant (STP).

e. Spa/ Rejuvenation Center with Yoga and meditation facility.

vi. Staff Requirements

Following are the basic staff requirements for the operations of hotels and

resorts:

a. Staff shall be dressed in uniform, well groomed and properly trained.

b. Number of workers shall be proportionate to the capacity of the facility

and as per industry standards.

c. Staff shall preferably be trained local residents specialized in the

respective fields of operation.

d. Staff shall be hospitable and capable to effectively respond to Tourist

requirements and should have a fair idea of the places of tourist

interest in the State.

e. Front desk staff shall be well versed in Kannada and English and

preferably with few other regional languages to communicate with

tourists from different regions of the country and abroad. Foreign

languages are also desirable.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Hotels and Resorts

The Government of Karnataka proposes to offer concessions and investment

subsidies to eligible entities willing to develop tourism projects in the State, as

identified through the 18 tourism products, one of them being development of

Hotels and Resorts.

This product would be eligible for the following Concessions:

a. Exemption on Stamp Duty (Please refer to Annexure 3 of the

procedure for project approval & claiming subsidy and incentives under

Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020)

b. Concessional Registration Charges (Please refer to Annexure 3 of the



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c. Reimbursement of Land Conversion Fee (Please refer to Annexure 6

of the procedure for project approval & claiming subsidy and incentives

under Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020)

d. Exemption on Entry Tax (Please refer to Annexure 10 & 11 of the



As per the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020, based on the location of the

proposed project and the type of eligible entity developing the project, this

product would be eligible for the following investment subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1 Upto 35% of EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 105 lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR Upto 40% of EPC subject to a


Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*

Upto 40% of EPC subject to a


* An additional 10% investment subsidy (over and above project specific

investment subsidies) shall be provided for development of tourism

circuits within a Tourism Cluster. A tourism circuit is defined as a route

within a single Tourism Cluster, in which at least three Focus Tourism

Destinations are located such that none of these are in the same town,

10

village or city. Please refer to Annexure 2 of the Policy for Tourism

Clusters and Focus Tourism Destinations.

For availing any investment subsidies, the project should be operational

within two years of receiving the project approval.

IV. Rating of tourism products and facilities

i. For availing any kind of investment subsidy, it is mandatory for the new

units of hotel or resort owners/ promoters to get their products rated

through the Rating Agencies empanelled with the DoT and submit the

Rating Certificate to DoT. The details of these rating agencies, the

parameters under which the hotels or resort would be rated and the

validity of rating is available on DoT website at

http://www.karnatakatourism.org/.

ii. The Rating of the facility would be undertaken post six months of

operations of the facility.

iii. The rating certificate would need to be furnished post approval, while

applying for availing any incentives & concessions under Karnataka

Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020.

V. Process for availing Incentives & Concessions

Following flow chart summarises the process for availing various

incentives/ concession/ subsidies and exemptions under the Policy:

http://www.karnatakatourism.org/

11

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2. Guidelines for Caravan Park

I. Definition

‘Caravan Park’ is a facility developed for parking of Caravans in allotted

spaces and includes other amenities. The caravan park would need to be

developed in an area of at least two acres and include at least five parking

bays.


Caravan is a vehicle suitably equipped for living in, ideally towed by a car and

used for holidays.

The following parameters will be mandatory for caravan parks:

i. Site Development

a. Land requirement

Caravan park shall be developed in an area of not less than 2 acres

Shall have provisions for at least 5 parking bays to a maximum of

25 parking bays for every 2 acres.

For every 5 parking bays constructed, at least 2 caravans (bought

or rented) must be available onsite for immediate occupancy.

The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

b. Park design and location

The Caravan Park shall be wheelchair accessible.

Concept and design of the park shall be compatible with its

surroundings (natural and manmade).

Caravan park shall provide for proper sewage disposal, rain water

harvesting and picnic tables

Layout shall be capable of achieving adequate separation of

different occupancies/ activities and should be constructed to a

standard suitable for use in all weather conditions.

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c. Landscaping and plantation

Shall be planned in a way to achieve privacy, screening and

security

Adequate and appropriate landscaping should be provided to

create a visual and physical barrier between the common area for

parking.

Plantations and green cover should be in accordance/ line with

local indigenous species

Landscaped areas should be located and designed to alleviate

prevailing winds, dust and to some extent, noise

Proper water harvesting structures should be put into place and

wherever possible, recycled water should be used in landscaped

areas.

d. Open space recreation of not less than 5% of the total site area,

strategically located in relation to the caravan parks and roads to

ensure safe conditions for children with respect to vehicular movement

shall be provided.

e. Internal Roadways with adequate width shall be designed to provide

for convenient vehicular movement within the caravan park.

ii. Common Facilities

a. Caravan Park shall include parking such as:

At least one bay with a minimum size of 50 ft x 20 ft and

Other bays with a minimum size of 25 ft x 16 ft.

b. There should be a minimum gap of 5 ft between caravans. Each

parking bay should be clearly defined and should have direct access

to a metal/ cemented service road. The parking bay should be raised

minimum 6 inches from the ground. Construction of the parking bay

should ideally be of brick & mortar.

14

c. Each parking bay should be provided with electricity and water

connections, sewerage and solid waste outlets in strict adherence to

international / Indian environmental norms / best eco practices.

d. Services to be provided at Parking Bays:

Water: The caravan park should be provided with a constant

supply of water including of potable water. Each parking bay

should be provided with a standpipe designed in such a way so

that there is unhindered vehicular movement and approved tap

fitting capable of having a hose attached thereto.

Electricity and lighting: Electricity supply and distribution

throughout the caravan park should comply with the supply

authorities’ codes and standards applicable. Each site should be

provided with an outlet. All areas of the caravan park especially the

parking and common areas should be well lit with provision of a

generator for back up.

Laundry facilities: Laundry facilities should be provided with a

minimum of one washing machine and an automatic dryer for

every five parking bays.

Toilet Facilities: The toilet building of the caravan park should have

separate screened access for men and women, with adequate

supply of hot and cold water. Separate toilets for drivers should be

provided. The ladies’ toilet should have two water closets (WC’s),

two hand basins & mirrors, two showers and dressing areas Baby

Changing facility for every ten bays. Men’s toilet should have

atleast one urinal (2 stalls) two water closets (WC’s) two wash

hand basins & mirrors, two showers and dressing areas for every

ten bays. Separate toilets should be provided for physically

challenged persons. New caravan parks should be provided with

ecological sanitation (Ecosan) which offers a new philosophy of

dealing with what is presently regarded as waste and wastewater.

In case of caravan parks having more than ten parking bays, the

toilets for men and ladies should be increased as a multiple of

these configurations for every ten Parking Bays or part thereof.

15

Waste disposal: Waste disposal should be carried out in a hygienic

manner, adhering to standards, hygiene, and environment friendly

practices.

Movement and Parking: A drive-in area and forecourt of sufficient

dimensions should be provided for the parking of caravans and

towing vehicles, clear of the general traffic movement. Turning

circles must be designed to ensure that a caravan and towing

vehicle can turn in the space without disrupting the general

caravan park area.

iii. Minimum Caravan Specifications

The specially built vehicles being used for the purpose of travel, leisure

and accommodation would be termed as ‘caravan’ and would include

vehicles viz. recreation vehicles (RV), campervans, motor homes etc. with

following minimum features:

a. Sofa cum bed for minimum 2 persons.

b. Kitchenette with fridge and micro wave oven.

c. Toilet cubicle with hand shower and sufficient fresh water storage.

d. Partition behind driver.

e. Communication between passenger and driver.

f. Air- condition (desirable).

g. Eating table.

h. Audio / video facility.

i. Complete charging system – external and internal.

j. Caravan should be enabled with GPS.

k. Vehicle to be Bharat Stage II compliant.

l. Hygiene, Responsible Standards, Environment Friendly Practices

iv. Other Requirements

a. Caravan parks shall have all necessary trading licenses / no objection

certificates (NOC) from Department of Tourism and Local Statutory

Body.

16

b. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,

Government of Karnataka’ shall be displayed along with the Karnataka

Tourism logo at the entrance of the property.

c. Safety & Security - To provide hassle-free and stress-free

environment for the visitors, the caravan parks shall be housed in a

safe and secure zone. The following mandatory requirements need to

be fulfilled to ensure this.

a. A boundary wall with limited entry and lockable gates around the

caravan park area to avoid unnecessary trespassing and

unauthorized entry. Adequate security and safety arrangements

in the caravan park viz. deployment of security guards with a

system of patrolling.

b. A properly equipped first aid kit at the reception and adequate

first aid training should be provided to the staff. The facility of

doctor-on-call should be available at the park. A well-defined

mechanism should be available to handle a medical emergency.

The park management should maintain effective coordination

with local medical establishments.

c. The supervisory staff and other workers should be trained in

disaster management to face disasters such as fire, road

accidents, earthquakes, floods, landslides, etc.

d. Responsible approach should be adopted for sustainable growth

which also benefits the local community and does not adversely affect

the local environment. Use of eco-friendly practices and local products

should be encouraged.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Caravan Parks.

The Government of Karnataka proposes to offer concessions and

investment subsidies to eligible entities willing to develop tourism projects

in the State, as identified through the 18 tourism products, one of them

being development of Caravan Parks.


17

a. Exemption on Stamp Duty (Please refer to Annexure 3 of the



b. Concessional Registration Charges (Please refer to Annexure 3 of the









IV. Eligible Components for availing Investment Subsidy

The following components would be considered for availing any

investment subsidy under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020:

a. Cost of civil works for construction of caravan parks.

b. Investment in fixed assets for the purposes of developing Tourism

Projects defined in this Policy. Project Cost shall mean costs incurred

towards civil construction (including toilets, access to differently-abled,

electrification) and for providing utilities such as safety equipment,

water purification, DG sets, air conditioning, lifts, sewage treatment

plant, rain water harvesting, solar heating/ lighting systems, bore wells

and equipment necessary to undertake tourism related activities as

defined in Section 4.2.2 A of the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 –

2020 (Equipment Cost).

Project Cost does not include costs towards purchase of land,

interiors, lighting / chandeliers, furnishings, kitchen utensils, ceramic

products, etc.

As per the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020, based on the location

of the proposed project and the type of eligible entity developing the

18

project, this product would be eligible for the following investment

subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1

Upto 35% of EPC subject to

a maximum of Rs. 105

lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs

Category 2 Upto 30% of EPC subject to

a maximum of Rs. 90 lakhs





HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs








19

V. Rating of tourism products and facilities


units of Caravan Park owners/ promoters to get their products rated



parameters under which the Caravan Park would be rated and the validity

of rating is available on DoT website at http://www.karnatakatourism.org/.






VI. Process for availing Incentives & Concessions




20

21

3. Guidelines for Museum & Gallery

I. Definitions

‘Museum’ is an institution that cares for or conserves a collection of artifacts

and other objects of scientific, artistic, cultural, or historical importance and

makes them available for tourists viewing through exhibits.

‘Gallery’ includes roofed premises in which paintings, sculptures and other

art forms are exhibited for purposes of information dissemination/ sale and is

accessible by the tourists.


The following mentioned parameters will be mandatory Museums and

Galleries:

i. Shall be a structure that conserves and/ or exhibits work of art, science,

history and heritage on a permanent basis.

ii. Shall have a minimum area of 2400 sq. ft. in corporation areas and 1000

sq.ft. in other areas.

iii. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

iv. Shall be in close proximity of tourist destination, form part of any

structured tourist itinerary or circuit and is frequently visited by tourists.

v. Shall be easily accessed by the differently abled (wheelchair users) and

elderly people.

vi. Shall have adequate parking spaces for the benefit of visitors/ tourists.

vii. Details such as timings, entry fee, weekly holiday/ holidays (if any), etc.

shall be displayed in a conspicuous area outside the Museum/ Gallery.

viii. The owner/ operator of the Museum/ Gallery shall ensure that the facility

is well preserved and maintained as per good industry practice.

ix. The contents of the Museum/ Gallery shall at all times be safeguarded

by the owner/ operator with installation of effective security systems.

x. Museum/ Gallery shall record the number of people who visited the

facility per annum.

22

xi. Shall have drinking water facility, restrooms/ washrooms and cafeteria

annexed to it for the benefit of tourists/ visitors.

xii. All Items exhibited and conserved in the Museum/ Gallery shall be

audited and adequate information about such items shall be displayed in

at least two languages (one being ‘English’) for the benefit of tourists/

visitors.

xiii. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,



xiv. It is mandatory for the Museum & Gallery owners/ promoters to get their

products rated through the Rating Agencies empanelled with the DoT

and submit the Rating Certificate to DoT.

xv. The rating certificate would need to be furnished while applying for

availing any incentives & concessions under Karnataka Tourism Policy

2015 – 2020.

xvi. The following parameters are optional and will be preferred for Museums

and Galleries to provide better quality of services to the visitors:

a. Shall have arrangements for guides; video/ audio guides; other

literature, etc. on items that have been exhibited and/ or conserved.

b. Shall arrange for adequate information on the items displayed in the

form of brochure, hand-outs, etc whichever is applicable.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Museums&

Galleries.




being development of Museums & Galleries.


a. Exemption on Stamp Duty(Please refer to Annexure 3 of the procedure

for project approval & claiming subsidy and incentives under


23

b. Concessional Registration Charges(Please refer to Annexure 3 of the



c. Reimbursement of Land Conversion Fee(Please refer to Annexure 6 of

the procedure for project approval & claiming subsidy and incentives


d. Exemption on Entry Tax(Please refer to Annexure 10 & 11 of the






a. Cost of civil works for construction of museums and galleries.












products, etc.




subsidies:

24

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs










units of Museums & Galleries owners/ promoters to get their products

rated through the Rating Agencies empanelled with the DoT and submit

the Rating Certificate to DoT. The details of these rating agencies, the

25

parameters under which the Museums & Galleries would be rated and the












26

4. Guidelines for Eco-Tourism

These guidelines have been issued by the Department of Forest, Ecology

and Environment vide G.O. No. FEE 172FWL2015 dated 20.6.2015. The

same are reproduced below:

I. Definition

Eco-Tourism is broadly defined as tourism which is ecologically sustainable.

The concept of ecological sustainability subsumes the environmental carrying

capacity of a given area. Specifically, ecotourism possesses the following

characteristics:

The local community should be involved leading to the overall economic

development of the area;

The likely conflicts between resource use for eco-tourism and the

livelihood of local inhabitants should be identified and attempts made to

minimize the same;

The type and scale of eco-tourism development should be compatible with

the environment and socio-cultural characteristics of the local community,

and;

It should be planned as a part of the overall area development strategy,

guided by an integrated land-use plan avoiding inter-sectoral conflicts and

ensuring sectoral integration, associated with commensurate expansion of

public services;

The guidelines for eco-tourism are applicable to any protected areas, national

parks, wildlife sanctuaries, community reserves, conservation reserves,

sacred groves, or pilgrimage spots located within protected and/or forested

areas.

The Government has developed the guidelines for facilitating identification,

promotion and development of lesser known areas having eco-tourism

potential in addition to popular destinations. At the same time, the guidelines

aim at diversification of tourism activities available at destinations and

27

facilitate involvement of the local communities living in, and dependent on

peripheral and other areas for their livelihood.

Applicants who intend to implement and participate in ecotourism activities

should practice the following:

Adopt low-impact tourism that protects ecological integrity of wilderness

areas, secures wildlife values of the destination and it surrounding areas.

Undertake carrying capacity based study.

Highlight the heritage value of Karnataka’s wilderness and protected

areas.

Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.

Facilitate the sustainability of ecotourism enterprises and activities.

Provide livelihood opportunities to local communities.

Use indigenous and ecologically sustainable materials for tourism

activities.

Priority would be given to projects proposed to be developed near existing

and known tourist destinations. The entire concept should contribute to the

revenue of the local community and raise their living standards by involving

them in provision of various services related to this segment of tourism.

II. Conditions

i. No new tourist facilities shall be set up on forest lands. This is in

compliance with the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and the directives

of the Honourable Supreme Court.

ii. Any core area in a Tiger Reserve from which relocation has been

carried out, will not be used for tourism activities.

iii. All tourism facilities located within five kms. of a Protected Area must

adhere to noise pollution rules under ‘The Noise Pollution (Regulation

and Control) Rules’,2000, and ‘The Noise Pollution (Regulation and

Control) (Amendment) Rules’, 2010 issued by the Ministry of

Environment and Forests.

28

iv. There shall be a complete ban on burying, burning or otherwise

disposing non-biodegradable or toxic waste in the tourism area.

v. Perform only such activities and facilities that have the least impact on

the natural resources and the local culture.

vi. Any adventure tourism activities undertaken as part of eco-tourism

project must conform to the adventure tourism guidelines and

registered with GETHNAA.

[GETHNAA, 3rd floor, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports

State Youth Centre, Nruphatunga road, Bangalore 560001

(http://www.gethnaa.com/)] Phone No: 080-22210454,

Email: [email protected]

III. Project Requirements

The following parameters will be mandatory for ecotourism projects:

i. The proposed eco-tourism activities/ development must be in

accordance with the provisions of the existing environmental law/act of

the country/state, especially in conformance the Wildlife (Protection)

Act, 1972 and the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and various other

directives and/ or guidelines issued by the Government from time to

time.

ii. The proposed eco-tourism activities should adhere to international

standards in terms of quality and safety in developing and operating

eco-tourism facilities and activities.

iii. It would be essential to conduct carrying capacity of the proposed site

to arrive at the types tourism related activity that the proposed site and

the maximum number of visitors/ guests the facility could sustain.

iv. Wherever resources harnessed for eco-tourism are traditionally in use

by the local community, the Tourism Project should be developed in

consultation with them and mechanisms to ensure flow of benefits to

the community should be clearly identified.

http://www.gethnaa.com/

mailto:[email protected]

29

v. The marketing strategies for promotion of the proposed project must

be based on sound market research and segmentation analysis with

the use of electronic, print and cyber media for marketing.

vi. Installation of technologically efficient systems and clean development

mechanisms will be mandatory for operation of any ecotourism facility.

vii. Tourism infrastructure proposed in the project shall conform to

environment-friendly, low impact aesthetic architecture, including solar

energy, waste recycling, rainwater harvesting, water conservation,

natural cross-ventilation, energy conservation, and proper sewage

disposal and merging with the surrounding habitat.

viii. Eco-friendly Accommodation: Accommodation that proposed to be

developed in an eco-tourism destination should be:

a. built with locally available material,

b. make use of renewable resources,

c. adopt ecological sustainable solutions.

d. Should be a low-cost housing.

e. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

ix. Activities - The following activities and facilities may be undertaken for

promoting an area as an eco-tourism destination within the State. It is

expected that an ecotourism project will undertake at least 5 of the

activities/facilities enlisted below:

a. Nature Camps: In case nature camp is undertaken, camping sites

identified for eco-tourism activities should be provided with basic

facilities to enable the tourists to stay in natural surroundings either

solely to experience the wilderness, or additionally for participating

in other activities requiring overnight stay in forests.

b. Trekking and Nature Walks: In case nature walks or trekking is

undertaken, the trekking routes of varying distances and guided

nature trails should ensure that they cause minimum/no

disturbance to the natural vegetation and soil. Staff and local

persons, especially youth should be appropriately trained to act as

30

nature guides and naturalists so as to assist visitors during wildlife

viewing and trekking.

c. Wildlife Viewing: Destinations can promote Wildlife viewing in eco-

friendly vehicles or on animal back at appropriate sites for

observing wildlife.

d. Adventure Sports: Facilities for adventure sports such as rock

climbing, rappelling and parasailing along with water sports such as

river rafting, boating and canoeing should be developed in

consultation and cooperation with experts and such department or

agency having control over the water bodies.

e. Angling: Angling should be developed only on suitable rivers/ water

bodies flowing through or along the forest areas in consultation with

the concerned department. If necessary, water bodies may be

artificially stocked by rearing and releasing fish seed into the rivers

that have been depleted of the target species over time.

f. Herbal eco-tourism: Herbal ecotourism may be developed at

locations having a rich herbal heritage. Traditional medicinal

practices of such locations could be explored and based on these,

authentic herbal products having appropriate certifications and

recognition could be made available to the tourists.

g. Urban Eco-tourism through eco-parks: In order to promote urban

eco-tourism, eco-parks could be developed in various urban

centres. Such eco-parks should contain provisions for various

ecotourism activities including interpretation centres, trekking,

nature walks, biking, bird watching, camping, angling, herbal

centre, adventure sports etc. on a small scale, depending upon the

area being developed. For this purpose, existing public parks in

urban localities could also be utilized with the permission of the

concerned governing authority.

h. Interpretation centres: Interpretation facilities should be

strengthened to provide complete information to visitors and

accommodate the requirements of various classes of visitors

envisaged. Each destination must incorporate ways to enhance and

enrich the visitor experience.

31

i. Conservation education: Conservation education should be

promoted in and around each destination for creating awareness

amongst school and college students, local communities,

government staff and visitors in order to maintain and enhance

support for ecotourism and environmental conservation. Various

means that could be adopted include media campaigns, formation

of eco-clubs at schools and colleges, exposure visits to

destinations, displays and hoardings, community centres etc. New

and innovative methods must also be encouraged.

j. Other Facilities: Facilities for any other eco-friendly activities could

also be developed based on specific requirements of a site,

provided the activity is compatible with the overall objectives of this

policy and in conformance with the various standards and

guidelines laid down in this regard.

x. Creating environmental awareness amongst all sections and age

groups, especially the youth, to be incorporated as a major activity for

each eco-tourism destination.

xi. To avoid the number of visitors and vehicles exceeding carrying

capacity, the entity shall establish an online advance booking system

to control tourist and vehicle numbers.

xii. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,



xiii. It is mandatory for the ecotourism owners/ promoters to get their

products rated through the Rating Agencies empanelled with the DoT

and submit the Rating Certificate to DoT.

xiv. The rating certificate would need to be furnished while applying for


2015 – 2020.

IV. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Eco-Tourism.



32


being development of Eco – Tourism.














V. Eligible Components for availing Investment Subsidy



a. Cost of civil works for construction of accommodation (minimum 10

cottages, log – huts, tented accommodation etc.),

b. Costs incurred towards civil construction (including toilets, access to

differently-abled, electrification) and for providing utilities such as

safety equipment, water purification, DG sets, sewage treatment plant,

rain water harvesting, solar heating/ lighting systems, bore wells and

equipment necessary to undertake tourism related activities as defined

in Section 4.2.2 A of Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 -2020 (Equipment

Cost).



products, etc.

33




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs








34

VI. Rating of tourism products and facilities


units of Eco - Tourism product owners/ promoters to get their products



parameters under which the Eco - Tourism product would be rated and

the validity of rating is available on DoT website at







VII. Process for availing Incentives & Concessions




35

36

5. Guidelines for Rural Tourism Project

I. Definition

‘Rural Tourism Project’ shall mean and include all of the following;

i. tourism that showcases the rural life, art, culture, craft, cuisine and

heritage of rural locations in the State;

ii. benefit the local community economically and socially;

iii. enables interaction between the tourists and the locals for a more

enriching tourism experience and

iv. is essentially an activity which takes place in the countryside.

The Project shall provide self-employment opportunities and shall have a

training centre to impart training on local art and craft. The Project shall also

have an information centre and a sales outlet providing the necessary

backward and forward linkages.

II. Conditions

i. Exhibit rural life, rural art, rural culture, rural cuisine and heritage and/ or

enable the tourists to experience rural life, rural art, rural culture, rural

cuisine and heritage;

ii. Benefit local community economically and socially

iii. Enables interactions between the tourists and locals for an enriching

tourism experience

iv. Located in the countryside

v. Primary revenue source(s) shall be from rural tourism

activities/components only.

III. Project Requirements

The following parameters will be mandatory for rural tourism projects:

i. Site/ Location

a. Minimum Site Area: 1.0 acre

37

b. Rural Tourism Project shall be located in the country side especially

in the rural areas, in rustic settings amidst rural livelihood.

c. Easily accessible to public.

d. No such project will be admissible if it is in the town planning/

municipality/ corporation area.

ii. Components/ Facilities – the site proposed for developing Rural Tourism

Project should develop the following facilities on site:

a. Land availability should be there and the land should be owned by

the entrepreneur,

b. Accommodation facility for a minimum of 6 rooms,

c. Basic facilities such as clean toilets & bathrooms are mandatory,

d. Serving local/ traditional cuisine (could be made available through

community kitchen),

e. A souvenir shop selling locally produced handicrafts by the local self

– help groups and artisans.

f. First aid facility.

g. Apart from the above facilities, the project proponent shall also

develop any one of the following facilities.

No. Component Particulars

1 Thematic

museum

A museum portraying rural lifestyle and

handicrafts.

2

Art & Craft

Facilitation

cum

Demonstration

centre

A well-equipped centre where the local artisans

can be trained in various art and craft. The

interested tourists can also learn the same in

these centers. These centers can also be

utilized to conduct interactive sessions for

minimum 20 participants/ school children/

tourists on subjects related to rural lifestyle, art

and culture.

38

iii. Activities – The Rural Tourism Project shall also carry out at least one of

the following activities;

a. Rural festivals and games - being organized with arrangements for

visitors to participate in rural games festivals etc.

b. Village Tours - being organized with the tourists taken on a short tour

to the village to present the rural lifestyle, culture and infrastructure.

Arrangements could be made for the visitors to attend Panchayat

meetings and other village gatherings

c. Rural Arts and Crafts demonstrations – being organized for visitors to

include demonstrations of rural arts and crafts such as pottery, wall

paintings, bamboo craft work related to the state of Karnataka specific

to the region.

d. Horse/bullock cart riding – being organized for visitors to enjoy bullock

cart ride or horse ride in the farm area (routes and trips shall be

planned in advance and the rides shall be under supervision).

e. Cultural or folklore performances.

iv. Rural Tourism Project shall comply with the following conditions;

a. Shall include clean toilets/ bathrooms, serving traditional/ local cuisine

(could be made available in the form of community kitchens, etc.)

b. Shall display Approval Certificate and approval from Department of

Tourism.

c. Shall maintain a visitor’s book and remarks obtained from the guests.

d. Shall forward statistical data on guests every month in the prescribed

format to the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka.

v. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,



vi. The accommodation provided to tourists in the rural tourism facility

should invariably comply with eco-friendly Accommodation:

Accommodation that proposed to be developed in an agri – tourism

destination should be ‘eco-friendly’, i.e.

39

a. Built or constructed with locally available material.

b. Make use of renewable resources.

c. Adopt ecological sustainable solutions.

vii. Local tourist guides should be available who can speak local language,

English and foreign language will be desirable.

viii. Hotels and resorts that include a few rural tourism activities as additional

revenue sources will not be classified as rural tourism centres.

ix. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

IV. Concessions applicable to Rural-Tourism.

The Government of Karnataka proposes to offer concessions to eligible

entities willing to develop tourism projects in the State, as identified

through the 18 tourism products, one of them being development of Rural

– Tourism.














V. Eligible Components for availing Investment Subsidy

40




rooms),

b. Cost of civil works for Thematic Museums,

c. Cost of civil works for Art and Craft Facilitation cum Demonstration

centre.

d. Costs incurred towards civil construction (including toilets, access to






Cost).



products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs Category 2 Upto 30% of EPC subject to

41

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs






HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs








VI. Rating of tourism products and facilities


units of Rural - Tourism product owners/ promoters to get their products



parameters under which the Rural - Tourism product would be rated and




42






VII. Process for availing Incentives & Concessions



43

6. Guidelines for Agri Tourism Centre

I. Definition

‘Agri-Tourism’ shall encourage active involvement in the activities of the farm

or its operations. Agri-Tourism must include setting up within a working farm

or any agricultural, horticultural, or agribusiness operations for the purpose of

tourists/ travellers visiting for leisure, education and must include:

i. any one of the following components - horticulture

orchard/garden/vineyard; fish pond; sericulture unit; apiculture unit; dairy

farm; vineyard unit;

ii. any two or more of the following activities / components - farm camping,

hands on farming, picking fruits (grapes) or vegetables, feeding animals,

interactions with farmers on farming – process from sowing to reaping,

preparing wine etc.

Only such Agri – tourism projects which are approved and registered with

Department of tourism will be applicable to avail incentives and concessions

under Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020.


The following parameters would be mandatory for agri – tourism projects:

i. Site Area/ Location

a. Minimum Site Area: 1.0 acre

b. Agri tourism centre shall be set up within land owned by the

progressive farmer on a working farm or any agricultural, horticultural,

animal husbandry, apiculture, sericulture, pisciculture or agri-business

operations set up. Horticulture would also include Vineyards which

44

allow tourists to gain insight on the units to visit and experience the

wine making process.

c. Accessible for public.

d. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

ii. Components/ Facilities – the site proposed for developing Agri Tourism

Project should develop the following facilities on site:

a. Land availability should be there and the land should be owned by

the entrepreneur,

b. Accommodation facility for a minimum of 6 rooms,

c. Basic facilities such as clean toilets & bathrooms are mandatory,

d. Serving local/ traditional cuisine (could be made available through

community kitchen),

e. A souvenir shop selling locally produced handicrafts by the local self

– help groups and artisans.

f. First aid facility.

g. Apart from the above facilities, the project proponent shall also

develop any one of the following facilities:

No. Component Requirements

1 Horticulture

orchard/garden

Mono or multi crop garden of horticulture crops.

Organic Farming

Flower gardens

Indian vegetable farms

Crops that are a mix of regional or seasonal

specialty shall be cultivated

2 Fish pond Water storage farm pond with an approximate

volume of 20,000 cum.

45


3 Sericulture unit Mulberry farm with rearing facility

4 Apiculture unit Apiaries with honey collection, processing and

bottling facility

5 Dairy Farm Dairy farm with a minimum of 5 milch animals and a

proportionate fodder cultivation and grazing area

6 Thematic

museum

Museum portraying traditional agricultural practices

and tools.

7 Farm store Store that sells fresh farm produce including planting

material and organic produce.

8 Nursery Nursery for flower plants and other potted

ornamental plants that can be purchased by visitors.

9 Training centre

Well-equipped training centre to conduct interactive

sessions for minimum 20 participants/school

children/ tourists on subjects related to agriculture

and allied sectors including experience sharing.

Visitors can also participate in these sessions if

interested.

10 Showcasing

local art and

heritage

Provision for organizing folk dance, music , stories

during the evening entertainment program

These facilities would not be eligible for availing any incentives,

concessions Investment Subsidy under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015-

20 and it will be the responsibility of the Project Proponent to mobilize the

above through other sources & Schemes of other Government

Departments.

46


For avoidance of doubt, while calculating incentives, concessions

Investment Subsidy under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015-20 to be

made available to the Project Proponent under the Policy, the investment

made for the purpose of the above facilities (1 to 10) shall not be

considered (Serial No. 6. Thematic Museums and Serial No. 9. Training

Centre would be eligible for incentives and concessions.)

ii. Activities - Agri tourism centre can organize various recreational and

infotainment activities that are unique and informative. The following lists an

indicative collection of activities that shall enhance the visitors’ experience.

A minimum of two such activities shall be part of the tourism package in any

Agri Tourism Centre:

a. Farm camping: The visitors can be taken on a tour around the farm and

camp in a shaded area near water source.

b. Hands-on farming: the Visitors can be given an opportunity to participate

in farming activities such as tractor ploughing, watering etc for a short

duration.

c. Plucking fruits & vegetables: Visitors can experience picking/ to harvest

ripen fruits and vegetables from the farms.

d. Feeding animals: Visitors get to experience feeding animals in the farm

and understand their routine.

e. Interactions with Farmers: the centre can conduct workshops for

innovative farming practices by hosting experts and successful farmers

at the centre. These workshops can be open for tourists and students.

iii. The accommodation provided to tourists in the agri tourism facility should

have a rustic rural feel and comply with Eco-friendly Accommodation i.e.

built with locally available material.

make use of renewable resources.

adopt ecological sustainable solutions.

iv. Primary revenue source(s) for an agri tourism centre must be from

agriculture/ horticulture/ sericulture/ animal husbandry and related

activities/components only

47

v. Centre shall be clean and safe and all facilities shall be operational.

vi. Agri tourism centre must be approved by the Department of Tourism,

Government of Karnataka.

vii. Centre shall maintain a visitor’s book and remarks obtained from the

guests.

viii. Owner/ operator of the Agri Tourism Centre shall have the information

regarding the nearest doctor and pharmacy and will be liable to provide

immediate medical and transportation assistance or any other emergency

assistance in case of any casualty, which may occur during the stay of the

visitors.

ix. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,



x. The agri tourism centre can also partner with neighboring farms and rural

centres to expand the activities and experience provided to tourists and

visitors. This partnering shall be recorded with Department of Tourism as

part of the description of the specific edutainment activity.

xi. Hotels and resorts that include a few such activities as additional revenue

sources would not be classified as agri tourism centres.

III. Concessions applicable to Agri-Tourism.

The Government of Karnataka proposes to offer concessions to eligible

entities willing to develop tourism projects in the State, as identified

through the 18 tourism products, one of them being development of Agri –

Tourism.





48














rooms),

b. Costs incurred towards civil construction (including toilets, access to






Cost).



products, etc.




subsidies:

49

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs










units of Agri - Tourism product owners/ promoters to get their products



50

parameters under which the Agri - Tourism product would be rated and










incentives/ concession and exemptions under the Policy:


51

7. Guidelines for Cruise Tourism

I. Definition

‘Cruise Tourism’ is defined as leisure travel between tourist destinations

along the coastline or major rivers in Karnataka on a ship/ cruise liner and

also involves development of a cruise terminal.


Cruise Shipping is a new product in Indian context, as well as Karnataka. This

new product needs to be developed and marketed effectively. As a part of the

project report to be submitted by the project proponent for availing incentives

and concessions under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015-20, the project

proponent would be required to submit a marketing strategy which shall detail

out the steps for concept/brand development, business analysis, product

development, brand positioning, source market development vs destination

market development, market testing and commercialization.

The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

The following facilities will be mandatory in case of a cruise tourism project:

i. Cruise Liner and terminal

Cruise Tourism Project shall include the following;

a. Operating a cruise liner along an identified circuit (to include more

than three coastal destinations not in the same district) along the

coastline or a major river in the State. Cruise Liners are defined as

moving township studded with state of art facilities and variety of

recreational activities along the circuit.

b. The facilities on the cruise liner shall include facilities/services such as

rooms, restaurant, bar, discotheque, swimming pool, duty free shops,

jewellery shops, massage parlours, beauty parlours, sauna baths,

gymnasium, golfing, bowling etc.

52

c. Developing a cruise terminal and allied facilities (tourist lounge, jetties

for cruises, cafeteria, etc.)

ii. Institutional Requirements

a. The cruises to be used for the tourism purpose has to be registered as

per section 15 (4) of the Karnataka Inland Vessels Act 1917 (Revised

Act 2006) and has to have a survey certificate as per section 9.

b. Shall comply with the regulations laid down by International

Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL

Convention 73/78) and to follow the guidelines of Indian Maritime

Administration to ensure inter-alia the following:

No waste (sewage waste, solid waste, waste/contaminated water

or used oil) will be released or dumped into the sea or on islands

during the cruise ship tour in Indian waters.

Any boat or smaller vessel taking tourists to an island destination in

India will ensure that no litter or waste is thrown over-board or left

littering the island. All waste originating from the mother ship will be

disposed off in a manner stipulated by the Maritime Administration.

No oily or contaminated bilge water will be released in Indian

territorial waters except in emergency situations where the vessel is

taking on water to the extent that the safety of the vessel or those

aboard will be threatened.

c. No ship other than an Indian ship or a ship chartered by a citizen of

India or a company or a cooperative Society which satisfies the

requirements specified in class (b) or as the case may be clause (c) of

Section 21 (as per Section 407(1) of the MS Act), shall engage in the

coasting trade of India except under a licence granted by the Director

General under this Section.

d. Preference shall be given to promote Indian Flag cruise liners. Foreign

flag Cruise ships/vessels shall be permitted to make coastal voyages

between different ports of India in relaxation of the provisions of

Section 407(1) of MS Act.

53

e. Any other necessary clearances from other Government departments

and regulatory agencies/ bodies (e.g., Inland port department).

iii. Operational Requirements:

i. Staff shall be well versed with vessel safety and systems, boat handling,

and vessel navigation - basic and shadow training for the initial trial period,

including the ability to locate and illustrate parts of their vessels shall be

provided prior to employment.

ii. Carrying capacity study shall be undertaken prior to commencement of

cruise operations and adhere to the findings of such study.

iii. Shall update safety gear and buoyancy vests shall be provided to all

passengers, wherever necessary.

iv. Risk management procedures shall be made available to all personnel.

v. Suitable insurance provisions/ options to be made available to the tourists

while booking.

vi. The Project proponent shall adhere to international standards in terms of

quality and safety in developing and operating marine tourism facilities

and activities. The management shall be sensitive to the local

communities, their practices and culture - activities shall not

disenfranchise, displace, or otherwise compromise the livelihoods or food

security of local communities.

vii. The project proponent shall not engage in inappropriate practices such as

approaching marine animals too closely, approaching breeding sites, or

destructive anchoring.

viii. The project proponents shall adhere to weather reports and tidal

predictions and rough, dark and deep patches at sea shall be avoided.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Cruise –

Tourism.



54


being development of Cruise – Tourism.

















a. Cost of civil works for construction of cruise tourism activity.










55



products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs






56





units of Cruise– Tourism product owners/ promoters to get their products



parameters under which the Cruise - Tourism products would be rated

and the validity of rating is available on DoT website at











57

58

8. Guidelines for Adventure Tourism

I. Definitions

‘Adventure Tourism’ involves infrastructure and activities that provide the

tourists with an opportunity to explore adventure and includes activities such

as the following;

(a) Land based – mountaineering and trekking;

(b) Water based – river running, kayaking, river rafting, scuba diving,

snorkeling, water skiing, jet skiing, boat based fishing, surfing, sail boarding

and wind surfing;

(c) Air based – paragliding, parasailing and bungee jumping.

Only Government of Karnataka entities are eligible for incentives and

concessions under the Policy (Only after the issuance of the GO Notification

from the Finance Department).


i. Likely Activities:

Adventure Tourism Activities shall include any of the following;

a. Land Based Activities

Trekking

Mountaineering

Camping

Rappelling and valley crossing

Mountain biking

Quad Biking

Rope Course Activity

Rock Climbing

b. Water based activities

Scuba diving

River rafting

59

River running

Jet skiing

Water Skiing

Kayaking and canoeing

Sail boarding, windsurfing and surfing

Snorkeling

c. Air based activities

parasailing

paragliding

bungee jumping

ii. Mandatory Requirements:

The following parameters will be mandatory for an adventure tourism project:

a. For all water based sports, the norms to be followed would be as

prescribed by National Institutes of water sports, Ministry of Tourism,

including the certification of water sport professional. These

regulations shall be applicable for watersport centers offering water-

skiing, sailing, parasailing, kayaking, canoeing, powerboat handling

including water-scooter, Jet Ski rides, Scuba diving and river rafting. It

is mandatory for the operators to fulfill all mandatory requirements

before commencement of operation. The Norms can be accessed

from www.indiatourism.gov.in or www.niws.nic.in.

It is mandatory for the water sports center to be inspected and

certified by National Institutes of water sports, Ministry of Tourism to

operate the water sports activities, especially higher versions like Jet

Ski, Parasail, SCUBA diving etc., in the absence of which, the

operator will not be eligible to apply for any incentives and

concessions under the Policy.

b. For any mountaineering related activities, the Operator has to be

registered with Indian Mountaineering Foundation, an Apex National

Body set up to organize, support and provide a base for expeditions

for mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking at high altitudes and to

http://www.indiatourism.gov.in/

http://www.niws.nic.in/

60

promote, encourage, support and execute schemes for related

adventure activities and environmental protection work.

c. Guidelines for the above mentioned adventure tourism activities have

been developed by General Thimayya National Academy of

Adventure (GETHNAA). Guidelines for Adventure sports and

Guidelines for Instructors as set out by GETHNAA shall be complied

with by every Adventure Tour Operator.

[GETHNAA, 3rd floor, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports

State Youth Centre, Nruphatunga road, Bangalore 560001

(http://www.gethnaa.com/)]

Phone No: 080-22210454, Email: [email protected]

d. Instructors of Adventure Tourism activities shall obtain certification

from institutions such as NIWS, IMF, GETHNAA which is recognised

by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka.

e. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

iii. Other Requirements

a. Prohibition of alcohol intake and drugs: Consuming alcohol in any

form or quantity or illicit drugs at least six hours prior to any adventure

tourism activity shall be prohibited

b. Shall acquire a valid first aid certificate before commencement of

Adventure Tourism.

c. Minimum Age Requirements: Persons above 12 years of age shall be

allowed to participate in adventure activities, that too, after the

operator has made reasonable prior judgment and exercised extreme

caution.

d. Safety Requirements

Guides/ trip leader shall ensure that a thorough brief on safety,

covering all pertinent details for that particular trip is imparted to the

participants.

Every group participating in adventure sports shall be accompanied

by a trained guide.

http://www.gethnaa.com/

mailto:[email protected]

61

The Guide shall possess appropriate qualification and skills for the

specific adventure activity.

Guides shall have the following basic skills:

Be familiar with search procedures and brief all group members

on these procedures.

Have a first aid certification and should be competent to impart

first aid training.

Should be proficient in the use of maps and compasses in any

weather by day or night.

Should be familiar with helicopter operations; know how to

approach a helicopter and procedures for being winched up

and down.

e. Foreign guides shall be aware of the Indian Safety Regulations before

being allowed to operate. They shall fulfill the required criteria and carry

out few familiarization runs on the river/ trek/ trail and equipment before

being allowed to operate commercially.

f. Trip leader shall ensure that the participants/ visitors are suitably dressed,

(bulky clothes, sarees, neck ties, long skirts and three piece suits should

not be permitted). People suffering from any serious ailments, weak heart

conditions, epilepsy, and pregnant women shall not be allowed to

participate. The guide shall be satisfied that all members are medically fit

to take part in the adventure sports.

g. Advertisements showcasing any adventure tourism should depict the

difficulties and dangers involved along with the Dos and Don’ts.

h. Every person joining a group engaged in adventure sports should receive

an introductory training and the guide shall be satisfied that they have

acquired the skills necessary to participate.

i. All group members shall be familiar with the use of radios wherever they

are being used.

j. Information regarding nature of activity, area of operation, period of

activity, possible hazards, persons to be contacted in an emergency, and

list of members shall be given to the concerned safety and rescue

committees.

62

k. A qualified medical doctor shall be available on call. First aid shall be

available at site with qualified first aid instructors (having additional

knowledge of related accidents), with arrangements from a nearby

hospital for quick emergency services.

l. Communication facilities such as mobile telephone / walkie – talkie,

wireless, etc. wherever feasible shall be made available.

m. Use of package wastewater treatment plant shall be encouraged for

recycling wastewater for making the campsite a zero discharge facility.

n. Adventure Tourism shall also advocate safe tourism; specific

requirements for adventure tourism involving greater peril shall be

complied with wherever necessary, to ensure safety of the participants

and build their confidence levels.

o. Equipment & Gears

Shall meet safety norms for each adventure sport and all inspections

have to been carried out as recommended by the manufacturer and

are fit for use.

Under no circumstances shall the capacity rated by the manufacturer

of adventure sports equipment be exceeded, any unauthorized

modifications, except as additional safety measures, be carried out or

sub-standard material used.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Adventure

Tourism.




being development of Adventure Tourism.





63




c. Reimbursement on Land Conversion Fee(Please refer to Annexure 6









subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism Upto 40% of EPC subject to

64

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Destinations(FTDs)* a maximum of Rs. 120

lakhs








As per GO No. TD 81 TTT 2014 Bangalore Dated 26-3-2015 provided

in Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015-20, any investment subsidy on

adventure tourism equipment will be provided after a transparent

policy guidelines are issued with the prior concurrence of the

Finance Department.



units of Adventure Tourism product owners/ promoters to get their

products rated through the Rating Agencies empanelled with the DoT and

submit the Rating Certificate to DoT. The details of these rating agencies,

the parameters under which the Adventure Tourism product would be

rated and the validity of rating is available on DoT website at





65







and 15.

66

9. Guidelines for Entertainment Parks

I. Definitions

‘Entertainment Park’ is an outdoor recreation park and shall mean either of

the following - a theme park, an amusement park, a water park. An

entertainment park offers relaxation and/ or recreation to visitors and includes

amusement rides, games and other entertainment options.


The following parameters will be mandatory for an entertainment park project:

i. It would be essential for the entities to be registered with the Indian

Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) for applying to

avail incentives and concessions under the Karnataka Tourism Policy

2015 – 2020.

ii. Shall comply with the "Code of Recommended Practice for Amusement

Rides Safety" and "Code of Recommended Practice for Safety in Water

Parks" as set out by the Bureau of Indian Standards and is available on

the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI)

website (http://www.iaapi.org/) wherever applicable.

iii. Shall comply with a detailed safety management plan covering following

factors:

a. Environmental factors – illumination, gases, dust, noise

b. Hazardous supplies and materials – pool chemicals, cleaning solvents

c. Power source equipment – pumps, motors

d. Electrical equipment – switches, control rooms

e. Personal protective equipment – harness

f. Personal service and first aid equipment – restroom facilities

g. Fire protection systems – alarms, sprinklers, fire extinguishers

h. Walkways and roadways – width, ease of movement

i. Working structures – ladders, scaffolding

j. Transportation systems – cars, monorails, motorised service vehicles

k. Warning and signaling devices

l. Storage facilities

67

m. Rides and buildings

iv. Dangerous machinery shall be located away or sectioned off from the

guests and common staff working areas.

v. Fire exits shall be provided in clearly visible locations.

vi. Provision of stairs, escalators, elevators, access for the physically

challenged persons to be provided for safe and easy access to various

areas and attractions in the park

vii. Car park security system shall be provided for guest and staff vehicles.

viii. Lockers shall be provided for guest convenience and safekeeping of

belongings.

ix. All applicable clearances shall d be taken from the concerned authorities

and submitted along with the proposal.

x. Closed circuit TV cameras and a control room shall be installed to ensure

safety of all tourists.

xi. Food safety parameters shall be incorporated during the design stage of

setting up kiosks.

xii. Renewable sources of energy shall be used where possible.

xiii. Shall adopt rainwater harvesting systems to improve sustainability

xiv. For large parks with investment greater than Rs. 30 Crores;

a. A Water Treatment plant /ETP/STP shall be included in the design.

b. Additional rainwater harvesting systems shall be designed to improve

sustainability.

xv. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,



xvi. It is mandatory for the entertainment park owners/ promoters to get their



the parameters under which the entertainment park would be rated and

the validity of rating are available on DoT website at



68

xvii. The rating certificate would need to be furnished while applying for


2015 – 2020.

xviii. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Entertainment

– Park.




being development of Entertainment – Park.














e. Reimbursement of Entertainment Tax [for Ultra Mega and Super Mega

Projects]. (Please refer to Annexure 13 of the procedure for project

approval & claiming subsidy and incentives under Karnataka Tourism

Policy 2015 – 2020)

69




a. Cost of civil works for construction of entertainment parks.












products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5



70

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs





HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs










units of Entertainment Park owners/ promoters to get their products rated



parameters under which the Entertainment Park would be rated and the




71









72

10. Guidelines for Wayside Amenities

I. Definition

‘Wayside Amenity’ is defined as a facility comprising resting areas, toilets,

cafeteria, mini store/ pharmacy and an information / souvenir booth; located

on National, State and District Highways; for the benefit of travelers/ tourists.


The following parameters and facilities would be mandatory for the wayside

amenities:

i. Site/ Location

a. Shall be suitable located and easily accessible from the Highway.

b. Developed on a site area of atleast 6000 sq.ft.


construction work.

ii. Facilities

a. Wayside amenity shall be designed for easy access by the physically

challenged (wheel chair accessible).

b. Resting Area – with comfortable and spacious seats for travelers

c. Cafeteria - Capacity to serve 50-100 persons at any time.

d. Bathrooms/ Toilets

Separate complex for men & women,

Minimum 6 toilets and 4 bathrooms per amenity,

Toilets and bathrooms designed for use by physically challenged

and senior citizens.

e. Changing Rooms- Gender specfic changing rooms (2 each) with

provision for changing baby diapers in women’s changing rooms.

f. Tourism Information booth

g. 24/7 Pharmacy

73

iii. Entry & Exit Points

a. Two lane entry and exit road of good quality built as per NH, SH

standards for easy access into the amenity

b. Traffic from both directions must have separate access roads.

iv. Signage

Clear visible signage indicating the location and distance from the wayside

amenity shall be displayed at a distance of 5km, 2km, 1km, 750m, 500m

and 250m from the access road.

v. Parking area requirements

a. 25 parking lots for taxis/ private cars

b. 10 parking lots for tourist coaches/ buses

c. Dimensions for standard parking spaces and loading/unloading bays

should be as follows:

Type of Parking Space Length

(ft.)

Width

(ft.)

Minimum Headroom

(ft.)

Private Cars and Taxis 16.4 8.2 7.9

Light Goods Vehicles (LGV) 23 11.5 11.8

Medium / Heavy Goods Vehicles

(MGV/HGV)

36 11.5 15.4

Container Vehicles 52.5 11.5 15.4

Coaches and buses 39.4 11.5 12.5

Light buses 26.2 9.9 10.8

Note:

Buses mean a motor vehicle constructed or adapted for the carriage of

more than 16 passengers and their personal effects.

Light buses mean a motor vehicle having permitted gross vehicle

weight not exceeding 4 tonnes which is constructed or adapted for use

solely for the carriage of not more than 16 passengers and their

74

personal effects, but does not include an invalid carriage, motorcycle,

motor tricycle, private car & taxi.

Minimum headroom means the clearance between the floor and the

lowest projection from the ceiling, including any lighting units,

ventilation duct, conduits or similar installations.

vi. Staff Requirements

b. Staff shall be dressed in uniform, well groomed and properly trained.


respective fields of operation


requirements and should have a fair idea of the places of tourist interest

in the State.

e. Front desk staff shall be well versed in English and few other regional

languages to communicate with tourists from different regions of the

country and abroad.

vii. Souvenir Shop facility

viii. First Aid Facilities

ix. Municipal solid waste management practices to be adopted

x. Rain water harvesting

xi. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,

Government of Karnataka’ shall be displayed along with Karnataka

Tourism logo at the entrance of the property which shall be clearly visible

from a minimum of 250 m from the access road.

xii. The following facilities are optional facilities for the wayside amenity

centres to provide better quality of services:

a. Fuel Station

b. Installation of an Sewage Treatment Plant (STP)

c. Vehicle repairs/ servicing/ maintenance area

d. Telephone with long distance (out of State) calling facility.

e. Internet and Wi – Fi facility.

f. Power back up system is to be provided in the entire facility to provide

uninterrupted power supply for the facility

g. 24 hour uninterrupted hot and cold water supply

75

xiii. It is mandatory for the Wayside Amenity owners/ promoters to get their



the parameters under which the Wayside Amenity would be rated and the

validity of rating are available on DoT website at


xiv. The rating certificate would need to be furnished while applying for


2015 – 2020.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Wayside

Amenities.




being development of Wayside Amenities.















76




a. Cost of civil works for construction of Wayside Amenities.












products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5



77

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs





HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs










units of Wayside Amenities owners/ promoters to get their products rated



parameters under which the Wayside Amenities would be rated and the




78









79

11. Guidelines for YatriNiwas

I. Definitions

‘YatriNiwas’ is defined as a budget accommodation facility targeting families

or group of individuals; located on National, State and District Highways;

within a distance of atleast 10 km from an existing tourist destination and

includes atleast

i. ten rentable rooms with attached toilets,

ii. two dormitories with separate toilets (one each for men and women), each

dormitory with atleast ten beds; and

iii. a cafeteria/ dining room/ pantry.


i. Site Requirement:

a. Minimum site area should be atleast 5000 sq.ft.

b. shall be suitably located and easily accessible to tourists/ visitors.


construction work.

ii. Rooms/Dormitories

a. Double Room size and bath room size will be minimum 120 sq.ft.

and 30 sq.ft. respectively, with adequate furniture, fixtures and

clean linen.

b. All the dormitories must be wheelchair accessible and have

attached bathrooms designed for use by physically challenged

persons and /or senior citizens. All dormitories:

Shall be gender specific, atleast one each for men and

women.

Shall not be more than 10 beds in one dormitory room

Shall have adequate furniture, fixtures and linen.

A standard of 50 sq.ft. per person must be maintained while

building a dormitory. For example if the dormitory capacity is

10 beds the dormitory carpet area must be at least 500 sq.ft.

80

shall have attached bathrooms (3 nos.) and toilets (4 nos,

including 1 toilet for physically challenged persons).

iii. Common Facilities

a. Restaurant with kitchen: Shall include a restaurant with kitchen.

Restaurant/dining hall of seating area of atleast 300 sq.ft. (Excluding

kitchen & storage).

b. The facility should be accessible to differently abled users (wheelchair

users).

c. Parking area

For every three rentable rooms one car parking must be provided for

minimum 135 sq.ft.

Parking area for two wheelers should be provided.

d. Separate public toilets for men and women

iv. Other Facilities

a. First aid facility

b. Left luggage facility

c. Front desk

a. Visitors sitting area and lobby

b. Tourism info booth

c. Municipal solid waste management practices to be adopted

d. Rain water harvesting

e. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,


Tourism logo at the entrance of the property which shall be clearly

visible from a minimum of 250 m from the access road.

v. Staff Requirements

a. Staff shall be dressed in uniform, well groomed and properly trained.

b. Number of workers shall be proportionate to the capacity of the unit

in all services provided.

c. Staff shall preferably be trained local residents specialised in the

respective fields of operation.

81


requirements and should have a fair idea of the places of tourist

interest in the State.

e. Front desk staff shall be able to communicate in English and other

regional languages with tourists from different regions of the country

and abroad.

vi. Optional Facilities:

The following facilities are optional and would be preferred in Yatri

Niwas:

a. 24 hour uninterrupted hot and cold water supply.

b. Power back up system is to be provided in the entire facility to

provide uninterrupted power supply for the facility.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Yatri Niwas.




being development of Yatri Niwas.














82

e. Exemption on Luxury Tax(Please refer to Annexure 15 of the






a. Cost of civil works for construction of Yatri Niwas.












products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs



Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

83

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

lakhs maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs Category 2







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs










units of Yatri Niwas owners/ promoters to get their products rated through

the Rating Agencies empanelled with the DoT and submit the Rating

Certificate to DoT. The details of these rating agencies, the parameters

under which the Yatri Niwas would be rated and the validity of rating is

available on DoT website at http://www.karnatakatourism.org/.


84









85

12. Guidelines for Dormitories/ Youth Hostel (Yuva Vasatigraha)

I. Definitions

‘Youth Hostel’ is defined as a facility which provides budget/ inexpensive

overnight lodging, particularly for budget tourists who are unable to afford

expensive hotels.


The following parameters would be mandatory for dormitories/ youth hostels:

i. Site Requirement

a. Shall be suitably located and easily accessible to tourists/ visitors

b. Minimum requirement of the site shall be 4000 sq.ft.


construction work.

ii. Dormitories/ Bathrooms

a. Minimum of 6 rooms (dormitory would all be considered as a single

room) with a total capacity of atleast 30 persons. All dormitories:

Shall be gender specific and constructed as part of Yuva

Vasatigraha

Dormitories by themselves will not be considered a tourism product.

Shall not be more than 10 beds in one dormitory room

Shall be adequate furniture, fixtures and linen.

A standard of 50 sq.ft. per person must be maintained while

building a dormitory. For example if the dormitory capacity is 10

beds the dormitory carpet area must be at least500 sq.ft.

Each dormitory room shall have attached bathrooms (3 nos.) and

toilets (4 nos, including 1 toilet for physically challenged persons).

Minimum toilet size should be 30 sq.ft.

a. Dining Hall/ Pantry

Dining hall with a canteen / mess with sufficient capacity

b. Sufficient Parking area for cars and at least 1 bus for every 30

persons

c. Others

86

Separate public toilets for men and women

First aid facility

Front desk

Visitors sitting area and lobby

Tourism info booth

Power back up system is to be provided in the entire facility to

provide uninterrupted power supply for the facility.

24 hour uninterrupted hot and cold water supply.

Municipal solid waste management practices to be adopted.

Rain water harvesting.

Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,




iii. Staff Requirements

a. Staff shall be dressed in uniform, well groomed and properly

trained.

b. Number of workers shall be proportionate to the capacity of the unit

in all services provided.


respective fields of operation

d. Staff shall be hospitable and capable to effectively respond to

Tourist requirements and should have a fair idea of the places of

tourist interest in the State.

e. Front desk staff shall be well versed in English and other regional

languages to communicate with tourists from different regions of the

country and abroad.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Dormitories/

Youth Hostels.



87


being development of Dormitories/ Youth Hostels.

















a. Cost of civil works for construction of Dormitories/ Youth Hostel (Yuva

Vasatigraha).










88



products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs






89





units of Dormitories/ Youth Hostel owners/ promoters to get their products



parameters under which the Dormitories/ Youth Hostel would be rated and












90

91

13. Guidelines for Wellness/ Holistic Health Centre

I. Definition

‘Wellness/ Holistic Health Centre’ is defined as a facility that provides specialised

therapy to tourists through alternate system of medicine such as AYUSH

(Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) through

professionally qualified personnel.


The following parameters will be mandatory for holistic health centres for

Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy:

a. The Land should belong to the project proponent.

b. The minimum required land would need to be converted for any

construction work.

c. It would be essential for the entities to be registered under the

Karnataka Private Medical Establishments Act (KPMA) 2009 for

availing incentives and concessions under the Karnataka Tourism

Policy 2015 – 2020.

d. The Project Report submitted by the project proponent should be as per

the guidelines prescribed in Karnataka Private Medical Establishments

Act (KPMA) 2009 and accreditation guidelines issued by National

Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare. The detailed guidelines

are available on www. http://nabh.co/

e. Physical Infrastructure

Centre shall be suitably located and easily accessible.

Construction of the centre shall be of good quality and be

well furnished.

Entire building/ premises/ centre including the surrounding

environs shall be clean and hygienic.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Wellness/

Holistic Health Centre

The Government of Karnataka proposes to offer concessions and investment

subsidies to eligible entities willing to develop tourism projects in the State, as

92

identified through the 18 tourism products, one of them being development of

Wellness/ Holistic Health Centre. This product would be eligible for the following

Concessions:













As per the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2015 – 2020, based on the location of the

proposed project and the type of eligible entity developing the project, this

product would be eligible for the following investment subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs



Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR Upto 40% of EPC subject to a

93

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs


Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*

Upto 40% of EPC subject to a









For availing any investment subsidies, the project should be operational

within two years of receiving the project approval.



units of Wellness/ Holistic Health Centre owners/ promoters to get their



the parameters under which the Wellness/ Holistic Health Centre would be









94


Following flow chart summarises the process for availing various incentives/

concession/ subsidies and exemptions under the Policy:

95

14. Guidelines for Tourist Interpretation Centre

I. Definition

‘Tourist Interpretation Centre’ is a facility for dissemination of knowledge of

natural or cultural heritage to tourists; it provides a visitor an interpretation of

the place of interest through a variety of media, such as video displays and

exhibitions of material.


The Tourist Interpretation Centre shall offer a combination of educational

activities that are designed to reveal meanings and relationships through

the use of presentations, original objects, first-hand experience, graphic

illustrations, activities, or media designed to help people understand,

appreciate, and care for the natural and cultural environment. The

following mentioned parameters will be mandatory for interpretation

centres:

i. Site Requirement/ Location

a. Tourist Interpretation Centre shall be suitably located preferably in

proximity to an existing tourist destination.

b. Accessible for tourists and differently abled visitors (wheelchair

accessible).

c. The Tourist Interpretation centre shall be minimum 300 sq.ft. in size.


construction work.

ii. Primary Activities:

Primary activities at the Tourist Interpretation Centre shall be:

a. provide interpretive and educational information to the visitors

(including those with physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments)

about tourism in Karnataka, its diverse products, culture, heritage, the

various tourist projects/ destinations and its facilities, visitor security and

safety, the geographic area where the project is located, and the

cultural and natural resources of the area.

96

b. Enable interpretation and education through alternative formats to

accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities.

c. Information detailing out the total number of days of operation and

total number of visitors to the Interpretation Centres with visitor

profiles shall be submitted to the Department of Tourism, Government

of Karnataka at the end of every financial year.

d. Enhance the public understanding of tourism and its contribution to the

State, understanding of the archaeological, historical, human-made,

natural, and cultural features of the State which should lead to:

Developing public appreciation for the proper and safe use of project

resources;

Fostering the spirit of personal stewardship of public lands;

Orienting the visitor to the tourism destinations, products and its

recreational opportunities and

Aiding project personnel in accomplishing management objectives.

iii. Design Requirements

a. The Centre shall be spacious and designed for easy and convenient

circulation of tourists through the displays/ exhibits used for

interpretation within the premises.

b. All the facilities in the Interpretation Centre shall be safe, secure,

accessible, adequate and in operating condition.

c. All audio-visual presentations, photographs, taped messages, and

other interpretive materials shall be accurate, current, and

communicated effectively to the visitors.

d. Tourist Interpretation centre shall also include;

e. Well-structured tour, evacuation routes and assembly points

f. Adequate parking areas/structures

g. Ample lighting and signage

h. Security and standard operating procedures for visitor management

i. Availability of Tour Guides

97

j. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,



visible from a minimum of 250m from the access road.

iv. Staff Requirements

a. The staff should be able to communicate in English and other regional

languages with tourists from various regions of the country and abroad.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Tourist

Interpretation Centre.




being development of Tourism Interpretation Centre.














a. Cost of civil works for construction of Tourist Interpretation Centre.

98












products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR Upto 40% of EPC subject to


99

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs










units of Tourist Interpretation Centre owners/ promoters to get their



the parameters under which the Tourist Interpretation Centre would be









100




Annexure 3, 6 and 11.

101

15. Guidelines for Tourist Information Kiosk

I. Definition

‘Tourist Information Kiosk’ is a kiosk located at a public place or at transit

points such as bus station, railway station, airport, sea port, etc.; providing

basic information to tourists; including but not limited to the following;

Tourist maps of destinations

Nearest basic amenity such as hotel, restaurant, bus stop, railway station,

etc.

Tourist destinations in the State

Emergency contact numbers - police, fire, hospital, etc.

Modes of transport and means to reach destinations


The Tourist Information Kiosk shall provide instant assistance to the

tourists on the regional information and other relevant information. The

Tourist Information Kiosk shall be clean, functional, aesthetically pleasing

and tourist friendly. The Tourist Information Kiosk shall maintain efficient

information management system including a comprehensive database of

visitors who placed enquiries, tourist destinations, means of transport,

hotels, restaurants, other amenities, etc.

The following mentioned parameters will be mandatory for tourist

information kiosks:

i. Site/Location Requirement

a. Shall be suitably located in a public place or at a transit point like bus

station, railway station, airport, sea port, tourist destination, etc.

b. Easily accessible for tourists and differently abled visitors (wheelchair

accessible)

c. The minimum size of Tourist Information Kiosk shall be 80 sq. ft.


construction work.

102

e. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,



visible from a minimum of 250m from the access road.

ii. Staff Requirement

a. The staff should be able to communicate in English and other regional

languages with tourists from various regions of the country and abroad.


Information Kiosk.




being development of Tourism Information Kiosk.

















103

a. Cost of civil works for construction of Tourist Information Kiosk.












products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







104

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs










units of Tourist Information Kiosk owners/ promoters to get their products



parameters under which the Tourist Information Kiosk would be rated and









105




Annexure 3, 6 and 11

106

16. Guidelines for Tourist Information Centre

I. Definition

‘Tourist Information Centre’ is a facility located at a public place or at transit

points such as bus station, railway station, airport, sea port, etc.; which in

addition to providing basic information to tourists, also enables hassle free

travel/ tour/ stay for tourists. It would provide services including but not limited

to the following;

i. Plan and customize tour/ travel/ stay in the city/ State based on tourist

requirements

ii. Book accommodation in hotels/ home stays etc.

iii. Book travel through taxi/ bus/ train/ flight/ ferry, etc.


The Tourist Information Centre shall maintain efficient information

management system including a comprehensive database of visitors who

placed enquiries, tourist destinations, means of transport, hotels, restaurants,

other amenities, etc. The following mentioned parameters will be mandatory

for tourist information centres:

i. Site/Location Requirement

a. Shall be suitably located in a public place or at a transit point like bus

station, railway station, airport, sea port, tourist destination, etc.

b. Easily accessible for tourists

c. The Tourist Information Centre shall have minimum 300 sq.ft. of built-

up area.


construction work.

ii. Primary Activities

The Tourist Information Centre shall provide instant assistance to the

tourists on the following aspects:

a. Information on:

Tourist maps of destinations

107

Nearest basic amenity such as hotel, restaurant, bus stop, railway

station, etc.

Tourist destinations, timings for visit, amenities, etc.

Emergency contact numbers - police, fire, hospital, etc.

Modes of transport and means to reach destinations

Other relevant regional information

b. Plan and customize tour/ travel/ stay in the city/ State based on tourist

requirements.

c. The tourist information centre should have booking facilities for

Accommodation in hotels/ home stays/ etc.

Travel through taxi/ bus/ train/ flight/ ferry etc.

Activities such as adventure tourism, wherever applicable.

iii. Design Requirements

a. The Tourist Information Centre shall be clean, functional, aesthetically

pleasing and tourist friendly.

b. The Tourist Information Centre is desired to be at least 33 ft x 33 ft in

dimension that would make the visitors feel welcome and safe without

necessitating formation of long queues of visitors exposing them to

potential hazards

c. Board/ hoarding indicating ‘Approved by Department of Tourism,




iv. Staff Requirements

The Centre shall be adequately staffed with well trained personnel (with

an ability to interpret body language, probe to find out what people really

want, help plan itineraries, give advice and make recommendations,

explain how to get there with the aid of a map etc.)

108


Information Centre.




being development of Tourism Information Centre.

















a. Cost of civil works for construction of Tourist Information Centre.








109





products, etc.




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs




110







units of Tourist Information Centreowners/ promoters to get their products



parameters under which the Tourist Information Centrewould be rated and












111

Annexure 3, 6 and 11.

112

17. Guidelines for Vocational Training Institutes (Training and HRD

Infrastructure)

I. Definition

Institutions established for providing training and skill development courses

for tour guides, tour operators and in areas such as culinary skills, hotel

management, tourism facility management.

Only educational institutions that are recognized by competent authorities are

eligible for incentives and concessions under the Policy.


The VTI could be set up for any of the following specializations:

Hotel management and catering, which includes subjects like:

o Business management and entrepreneurship

o Computational skills

o Environmental education and rural development

o Catering management

o Organization

o Basic Accounts

o Food Preparation

o House Keeping and Front office operations

o Food and Beverage Service

o Physical and Health Education

o Accommodation service

Tourism and Travel

o English Language

o Language II or Foreign language

o Economics/Geography/Introduction to Computer Applications

o General Foundation Course

o India-Tourist Destination

o Travel Trade Management

o Tourism management and manpower planning

113


o On the Job training.

Bakery and confectionery

o Language II/Home Science/Introduction to computer

Applications

o General Foundation Course

o Food Science and Hygiene

o Bakery Science

o Confectionery


o On the Job Training.

Any hospitality management institute would need to follow the standardised

courses designed and finalised by National Council for Hotel Management

and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) is a Registered Society under Ministry

of Culture and Tourism, Government of India. These courses will also focus

on personality development, creativity enhancement , confidence building etc.

graduates from these institutes get ample opportunities, to work as

management trainees in Hotel, hospitality executives, institutional catering

assistants, faculty in institutes, cabin crew, catering officers in cruise lines,

marketing executives for hotels, customer service, executive and managerial

position in Tourism Development corporation etc.

The following mentioned parameters will be mandatory for vocational centres:

i. Site Requirement

Following are Space/Land norms for setting up Vocational Training

Institutes/Centers based upon the intake capacity in each shift; however

minimum workshop space norms prescribed for each trade need to be

complied with.

The minimum required land would need to be converted for any construction

work.

114

S.No. Capacity of VTI in

each Shift

Without Hostels & Staff

Quarters

Additional space for

Hostels&

Staff Quarters. 1. VTIs having 200 or

less

Trainees

To be decided by the

management of

Institute/Centre. Should be

preferably minimum 1.0

acre

2. VTIs having

201‐ 500

Trainees

1.5acre in

Metros/Urban/Semi Urban&

2.0 Acres in Rural.

0.5Acre in

Metros/Urban/Semi

Urban& 1.0 Acres

inRural. 3. VTIs having

501‐ 1000

Trainees

2 Acre in

Metros/Urban/Semi

Urban&2.5 Acres in Rural.

1.5Acre in all

locations

4. VTIs having 1001 or

more Trainees

3.0 Acre in

Metros/Urban/Semi

Urban&5.0 Acres in Rural.

As per need to

comply with the local

permissible building

bye‐ laws.

MAIN AND WORKSHOPBUILDING:

SPACE NORMSFORMAINBUILDING Area in Sq.m.

S.No. Description Desirable Space Area

1. Principals Room 15-20

2. Vice Principals Room 12-15

3. Stationery Store Room 10

4. Record Room 10

5. Library and Reading Room 30

6. Tool Room (Precision Measuring Lab.) 20 (Where ever required)

7. Theory Room 1 per Trainee

8. IT Lab(10Computers/100Trainees) 35

SPACE NORMSFOR

WORKSHOPS/LANDBUILDING

Area in Sq.m.

Tourism Trades As per Space Norms

prescribed in

the Training

Manual/Syllabus of the

Trade

115

SPACE NORMSFOR TRADES S. No. Name of Trade Duration Nos. of

Trainees

per unit

Space

required for

Lab/Work

shopper

trainee

inSq.

Meters

Approved

revised

Power

Load

Norms

in KW

1 Tourism ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

2 Food Production

(Gen)

1 year 16 6.00 4

3 Food Production

Vegetarian

1 year 16 6.00 4

4 Steward 1 year 16 ‐ ‐ 8

5 Tourist Guide 6 Months 20 3.50 4

6 Baker & Confectioner 1 year 16 6.00 16.6

To authenticate the above information please attach the:

Building Map Blue Print (Certified by the registered Architect/Authority) (All

the proposed trades workshop and the room required should be clearly

mentioned in the Map with dimensions in meters only).

Location Map Blue Print (Certified by the registered Architect/Authority).

Any other particulars of the Institute:

Availability of water connection.

Availability of Electric Power.

Approach road to the proposed ITI.

Availability of the firefighting equipment’s.

Availability of the playground for the trainees as per trade requirement.

Audio visual room.

ii. Course Requirement

a. The vocational training institute should be affiliated with National

Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) Government of India (GoI) or

National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology.

b. Vocational Training Institutes shall offer any of the following courses;

Courses for tour guides and tour operators

116

Courses in areas such as culinary skills, hotel management and

tourism facility management.

c. Course Outline – The courses offered in the Institutes shall adhere to

the following;

Well-structured curriculum prepared by trained professionals/

experts in the area

A good mix of classroom based learning and on site/ on the job

learning

Involve an evaluation assessment mechanism (written exams,

quizzes, projects, assignments, etc.)

Award of certificates to students who have successfully completed

the course.

iii. Other Requirements:

Other Infrastructure requirements for setting up the Institute shall include:

a. Spacious and well ventilated classrooms

b. Adequately furnished with chairs, benches, tables, desks, etc.

c. Classrooms shall be fitted with appropriate teaching aids such as black

boards/ white boards; projector; etc.

d. Labs, wherever required (courses pertaining to hotel management,

culinary skills development, etc.)

e. Faculty teaching the course shall have the appropriate educational

qualifications and adequate experience, as per industry standards.

III. Concessions and Investment Subsidies applicable to Vocational

Training Institute.




being development of Vocational Training Institute.


117










d. Exemption on Entry tax(Please refer to Annexure 10 & 11 of the






a. Cost of civil works for construction of vocational training institutes.












products, etc.

118




subsidies:

Taluka

Investment Subsidy

General Category

Women, SC, ST

and differently-

abled

entrepreneurs

Category 1



lakhs

Additional 10% of

EPC subject to a

maximum of Rs. 5

lakhs







HKR



lakhs

Focus Tourism

Destinations(FTDs)*



lakhs








119



units of Vocational Training Instituteowners/ promoters to get their



the parameters under which the Vocational Training Institute would be












120

(H. K. RAVIMURTHY)

Joint Secretary to Government

Tourism Department

Documents

karnatakatourism.orgkarnatakatourism.org/policy/KTP_Guidelines.pdf · 2 Disclaimer The Operational Guidelines are comprehensive and cover definitions of each product, the basic minimum