Following the remarkable success of its inaugural edition, the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) is making a much-anticipated return. Scheduled to take place from February 26–28, 2025, in Bengaluru, this premier event will position Karnataka as a key global tourism destination while fostering industry collaboration and innovation.
Hon’ble Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, and Tourism, Sri H.K. Patil, officially launched the KITE 2025 logo and event brochures during a grand curtain-raiser at Vidhana Soudha. The unveiling ceremony was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka; Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism; Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation; and Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), along with prominent members of the tourism sector.
A Premier Platform for Travel & Hospitality
Jointly organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and the Karnataka Tourism Society, KITE 2025 will serve as a dynamic networking hub, uniting domestic and international travel professionals, hospitality leaders, and tourism stakeholders. The event will drive new business opportunities while showcasing Karnataka’s diverse attractions, from heritage sites to eco-tourism experiences.
Key Highlights of KITE 2025:
- B2B Networking: Over 400 hosted buyers from across India and global markets will engage with 150+ Karnataka-based stakeholders, ensuring meaningful business interactions.
- Showcasing Karnataka’s Heritage: The event will feature dedicated pavilions highlighting Karnataka’s top travel destinations, emerging circuits, and sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Cultural Showcases: Attendees will experience Karnataka’s vibrant culture through immersive performances, music, and culinary experiences.
Leadership Insights
Speaking on the significance of the event, Sri H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Law, and Parliamentary Affairs, stated:
“Karnataka offers a rich and diverse range of tourism experiences catering to all kinds of travelers. KITE 2025 underscores our commitment to placing Karnataka on the global tourism map while fostering economic growth through strategic collaborations. This platform will highlight Karnataka’s incredible heritage, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, strengthening its position as a must-visit destination.”
Industry-Wide Support
KITE 2025 has garnered extensive support from leading national and state-level trade organizations, including:
- Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI)
- Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI)
- Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI)
- Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO)
- Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI)
- Karnataka Tourism Forum
- Enterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA)
- SKAL International
- South India Hotels & Restaurants Association (SIHRA)
- Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI)
Strategic Benefits for Karnataka’s Tourism Sector
As a hosted buyer B2B event, KITE 2025 is designed to boost Karnataka’s tourism sector by:
- Expanding Global Reach – The expo will highlight Karnataka’s distinct offerings, including heritage trails, adventure tourism, wellness retreats, and eco-tourism experiences, attracting international interest.
- Facilitating Business Growth – By connecting local enterprises with global buyers, KITE 2025 will foster new collaborations, supporting revenue growth and industry expansion.
- Enhancing Economic Impact – Increased tourism will generate employment, boost local economies, and strengthen Karnataka’s positioning as a top travel destination.
- Promoting Lesser-Known Destinations – The event will spotlight emerging travel circuits, encouraging sustainable tourism and reducing congestion in popular areas.
- Strengthening Karnataka’s Brand – By establishing Karnataka as a preferred business and leisure destination, KITE 2025 will attract investments in hospitality infrastructure, further elevating the state’s tourism appeal.
Exclusive Features of KITE 2025
- India’s Leading Hosted Buyer Travel Event
- 10,000+ B2B Meetings facilitated through an online appointment system
- Representation from 20+ tourism segments, including adventure, heritage, business travel, spiritual tourism, and cultural festivals
- 150+ Exhibitors showcasing Karnataka’s marquee destinations
- Pre- and Post-Event Familiarization (FAM) Tours to iconic locations such as Hampi, Coorg, Kabini, Mysuru, Chikmagalur, and Pattadakal
Voices from the Organizers
Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, emphasized:
“KITE 2025 is more than an industry event; it’s a strategic initiative to showcase Karnataka’s unparalleled tourism potential. By bringing together leading professionals from across the globe, we aim to foster meaningful collaborations and promote sustainable growth in the sector.”
Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation, added:
“As the host state, Karnataka is proud to invite the global travel community to participate in KITE 2025. This platform offers a unique opportunity to engage with the state’s diverse tourism offerings while building long-term industry relationships. Our goal is to elevate Karnataka’s status as a premier travel destination.”
Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society, concluded:
“The Karnataka International Travel Expo is a game-changer for the tourism industry, creating valuable opportunities for businesses, destinations, and travelers alike. By expanding awareness of Karnataka’s hidden gems and strengthening industry networks, KITE 2025 will continue to drive positive transformation in the sector.”
With its focus on business development, cultural exchange, and tourism promotion, KITE 2025 promises to be a landmark event that propels Karnataka’s tourism industry to new heights. Interested participants, including tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality businesses, are encouraged to be part of this dynamic platform and contribute to the state’s thriving tourism landscape.
