The tourism industry mourns the passing of C Nirmala Kamath, the esteemed founder of Nirmala Travels, who peacefully departed at her residence in Mangaluru’s Kottara on Monday, April 15. Her remarkable contributions to the field earned her widespread recognition and admiration over the years.
Survived by her husband, C Upendra Kamath, daughter Vitika Pai, and a large network of friends and relatives, Nirmala Kamath, a distinguished member of the Cholpadi clan, co-founded Nirmala Travels with her husband in 1971. The company, rooted in Mangaluru, expanded its operations nationally and internationally, earning accolades from both the Karnataka state government and the central government.
With a fleet of over 20 luxury buses, Nirmala Travels facilitated tourist journeys via trains and planes across the country, renowned for their meticulously planned tours and unwavering dedication, a testament to Nirmala’s vision and perseverance.
Continuing her mother’s legacy, Vitika Pai ventured into the tourism industry, establishing Vatika International Travels, thus upholding the family’s tradition of hospitality and excellence in service.
Nirmala Kamath’s pioneering spirit revolutionized tourism offerings, particularly for the coastal region’s residents. Catering primarily to the middle-class demographic, Nirmala Travels offered affordable and comprehensive package tours for over five decades, encouraging exploration and adventure.
Recognizing the potential of tourism incentives for government and banking sector employees, Nirmala Kamath strategically organized tours to popular destinations across India, prioritizing safety and comfort for all travelers.
Born and raised in Mangaluru, Nirmala Kamath embarked on her entrepreneurial journey after her marriage to Upendra Kamath, drawing from her experiences as a receptionist at a local clinic. Educated at Canara Girls High School and St Agnes College, her early career shaped her innovative approach to tourism.
Understanding the apprehension of solitary travelers, Nirmala Kamath pioneered family and friends tour packages, offering companionship and security on their voyages. This personalized touch fostered a familial atmosphere among customers, even among strangers.
Within five years of its establishment, Nirmala Travels introduced a 45-day North India package, covering iconic destinations like Delhi, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Jammu and Kashmir, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kolkata, Puri, and Konark, cementing its status as a premier travel agency in the region.
