Mangaluru: The annual Kudla Dasara festival has brought a significant surge in tourism across coastal Karnataka, with hotels, resorts, and local businesses reporting a steady inflow of visitors. Despite monsoon rains and past instances of communal tension, the festival has attracted a mix of domestic tourists and devotees, revitalising the local economy.
Rise in tourist footfall
Tourism officials in Mangaluru and surrounding districts noted a marked increase in arrivals during the Dasara celebrations. Hotels reported near-full occupancy rates, with weekend bookings particularly strong. Popular packages like the ‘Dasara Darshini’ tour have been in high demand, carrying nearly 2,000 devotees in a single day across temples and cultural sites.
Local travel operators have highlighted that the festival’s cultural and religious significance continues to draw visitors from neighbouring states such as Kerala, Karnataka’s interior districts, and Maharashtra. Travel agencies also noted that online booking platforms for hotels and tours experienced a 30% increase in queries compared to the previous year.
Festival attractions
Kudla Dasara, celebrated with grandeur in coastal Karnataka, includes cultural programmes, traditional processions, and temple rituals. Temples in Mangaluru and Udupi districts saw large crowds performing special prayers and participating in ceremonial activities. The city’s streets were adorned with lights and decorations, enhancing the festive atmosphere and attracting photographers and tourists alike.
Tourism authorities emphasised that the festival not only boosts religious tourism but also promotes cultural tourism, encouraging visitors to explore the local heritage, cuisine, and traditional crafts. Artisans and small businesses selling festival-related items reported increased sales, adding to the economic impact of the celebrations.
Economic impact and local response
The increased tourist inflow has positively affected local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport operators, and vendors. Many establishments extended operational hours to accommodate the surge in demand, while authorities ensured smooth traffic management and safety protocols during peak hours.
The festival has also helped strengthen community engagement, with local organisations coordinating cultural performances, exhibitions, and public events. Officials indicated that the event helps create seasonal employment opportunities for youth and promotes the preservation of cultural traditions.
Safety measures and administration
Authorities maintained strict safety and crowd management protocols to prevent any untoward incidents. Police and municipal staff were deployed at major temples, hotels, and busy streets to ensure smooth flow and security. Despite previous concerns over communal tensions in certain areas, the administration’s proactive measures ensured that the festival proceeded peacefully.
Officials stressed that the success of Kudla Dasara in attracting tourists reflects the confidence of visitors in local governance and public safety. Efforts to maintain cleanliness, public amenities, and cultural programmes have been appreciated by both residents and tourists alike.
Conclusion
Kudla Dasara continues to serve as a major driver of tourism and cultural engagement in coastal Karnataka. The festival’s successful organisation, combined with the region’s natural beauty and heritage, has helped draw visitors from across India. Hotels, travel agencies, and local businesses have benefited, and authorities are optimistic about sustaining the momentum in future celebrations.