Holi Tourism Hit Hard in Sanapur After Heinous Crime

Sanapur, a well-known tourist hotspot in Gangavathi taluk, usually comes alive with color and energy during Holi, attracting visitors from across the world. However, this year, the area appears abandoned. The brutal assault of two women—an Israeli traveler and an Indian homestay operator—along with the murder of a man on March 6, has led to an exodus of foreign tourists from Sanapur and nearby Hampi, a UNESCO heritage site.

Many visitors, fearing for their safety, have opted to leave rather than risk staying. While some declined to comment, others admitted their apprehension. Roughly 300 unauthorized lodgings operate within a 10-km radius, spanning Basapur, Sanapur, Virupapuragadde, Anegundi, and Hanumanahalli. The scenic Sanapur Lake, once a prime location for Holi festivities, now lies eerily silent.

Previously bustling hotels and resorts are witnessing mass cancellations. “Over 400 bookings, both domestic and international, have been withdrawn,” said Ravichandran, a resort operator. Sunil Babu, another homestay owner, lamented the impact, noting a 70% drop in reservations. Stricter regulations enforced by authorities post-incident have also deterred visitors.

According to Koppal SP Ram L Arasiddi, the absence of registration among several accommodations results in inadequate safety oversight. Authorities have now mandated unregistered establishments to halt operations, prioritizing tourist security.

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