Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition, the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) is all set to return with its second edition. This premier travel and tourism event will take place from 26 – 28 February 2025, showcasing Karnataka as a vibrant and diverse global tourism hub.

Sri H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, Tourism, Government of Karnataka, unveiled the KITE – 2025 logo along with brochures at the curtain-raiser event organized at Vidhana Soudha. Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka; Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka; Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation; Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), along with the office bearers of KTS and other officials, were present on the occasion.

Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and the ‘Karnataka Tourism Society,’ KITE 2025 promises to be a platform that brings together stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality industries. The event aims to foster new partnerships, promote business opportunities, and spotlight Karnataka’s unique offerings, including its heritage, culture, adventure, wellness, and nature-based tourism.

Key Highlights of KITE 2025:

• B2B Networking Opportunities: With over 400 hosted buyers from India and abroad and with over 150 stakeholders from Karnataka, KITE 2025 ensures impactful interactions for trade and industry professionals.
• Showcasing Karnataka’s Treasures: Dedicated pavilions will highlight Karnataka’s iconic destinations, emerging circuits, and sustainable tourism initiatives.
• Cultural Extravaganza: Evening programs celebrating Karnataka’s art, music, and cuisine.

Speaking about the event, Sri HK Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, law and Parliamentary Affairs, Govt. of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka is home to a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to travelers of all kinds. The second edition of KITE reflects our commitment to positioning Karnataka as a top-tier destination on the global tourism map while driving economic growth through tourism partnerships. The ‘Karnataka International Travel Expo’ underscores our dedication to showcasing Karnataka as a world-class tourism destination. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, pristine nature, and adventure opportunities, our state has something unique to offer every traveler. This Expo will not only strengthen B2B collaborations but also reinforce Karnataka’s position on the global tourism map.”

Major National and State level Trade and hospitality associations including the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India, Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India (ADTOI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), India Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), BCIC, FKCCI, FHRAI, Karnataka Tourism Forum, Enterprising Agents Association of India (ETAA), SKAL, South India Hotel and Restaurant Association (SIHRA), Travel Agent Federation of India (TAFI), etc. are among the many support the event.

Organizing events like the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) as a hosted buyer B2B event benefits Karnataka as a tourism destination in multiple ways:

1. Enhancing Global Visibility

• Showcasing Unique Offerings: KITE 2025 provides a platform to highlight Karnataka’s diverse attractions, including its rich heritage, eco-tourism hotspots, adventure destinations, and wellness retreats.
• Reaching a Global Audience: Hosted buyers from international markets act as ambassadors, promoting Karnataka in their respective countries, thereby enhancing its visibility as a global tourism destination.

2. Facilitating Business Opportunities

• B2B Networking: By connecting local tourism businesses with global buyers, tour operators, and travel agencies, KITE 2025 generates partnerships and collaborations that translate into increased footfalls and revenues.
• Promoting Local Enterprises: Small and medium tourism enterprises in Karnataka gain exposure to global markets, expanding their customer base.

3. Driving Tourism Revenue and Employment

• Boosting the Local Economy: Increased tourism leads to higher spending on accommodations, dining, transport, and local attractions, benefiting communities across the state.
• Job Creation: The growth in tourism demand creates employment opportunities, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, where many of Karnataka’s unique attractions are located.

4. Promoting Lesser-Known Destinations

• Diversifying Tourism Offerings: KITE 2025 allows Karnataka to spotlight offbeat destinations and new circuits, reducing pressure on established tourist spots while attracting niche travelers.
• Sustainable Tourism Development: By distributing tourism traffic, the state can ensure balanced economic growth and conservation of natural and cultural heritage.

5. Strengthening Karnataka’s Brand as a Travel Hub

• Positioning as a Preferred Destination: Events like, KITE 2025 help establish Karnataka as a go-to destination for business and leisure travelers, reinforcing its position on the global tourism map.
• Promoting Investment in Tourism Infrastructure: The increased visibility attracts investments in hospitality, transport, and other sectors, improving the overall tourism experience.

Through such initiatives, Karnataka can harness its tourism potential to drive inclusive economic growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.
Participation is open to tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hotel chains, and other tourism-related businesses seeking to explore and invest in Karnataka’s flourishing tourism sector.

Key Features:

• One of India’s Biggest Hosted Buyer Travel-Event.
• Online Appointment Scheduling between Buyers & Sellers – Over 10,000 B2B Appointments
• Over 20 different tourism segments: Adventure & Wildlife, Business Travel and Hotels, Pilgrimages, Festivals of Karnataka, World Heritage Sites, Conference and Meetings, etc.
• 150 Exhibitors representing various destinations and marquis products of Karnataka.
• Pre and Post Event Familiarization tours showcasing major destinations of Karnataka such as Hampi, Coorg and Kabini, Mysore, Chikamagalur, Badami and Pattadkal.

Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka said “The Karnataka International Travel Expo is more than just an event—it is a celebration of Karnataka’s immense tourism potential. By bringing together stakeholders from across the globe, we aim to facilitate meaningful dialogue, foster innovation, and ensure sustainable growth in the tourism sector. We look forward to welcoming partners and participants to this dynamic platform.”

Dr. KV. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation said “On behalf of the State of Karnataka, I extend a warm invitation to all to join us at the Karnataka International Travel Expo 2025. As organizers, we are deeply committed to showcasing the unique tourism products and services of Karnataka to a global audience. This premier event is a vital platform for fostering meaningful relationships between the global travel trade and our state’s tourism stakeholders. Together, we aim to position Karnataka as a leading destination on the global tourism map, while celebrating our rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy.”

Mr. K Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society added “The Karnataka International Travel Expo has proven to be a game-changer for the tourism industry in our state. By providing a dedicated platform for stakeholders to network, collaborate, and showcase their offerings to a global audience, the event has significantly enhanced business opportunities across sectors. From promoting lesser-known destinations to driving footfalls at established landmarks, KITE 2025 continues to create a ripple effect, boosting the livelihoods of countless individuals and businesses in Karnataka’s tourism ecosystem.”

For more information and registration details, visit here.