Mangaluru: The Karnataka government has stepped up efforts to accelerate the development of five key coastal tourism destinations, with agencies appointed to guide sustainable tourism promotion and prepare the projects under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
IPE Global has been selected as the Programme Management Unit (PMU) for sustainable development and tourism promotion in coastal Karnataka. Ernst & Young LLP has been appointed as the transaction adviser for the development of the five identified destinations.
The projects were announced in the State Budget and are aimed at tapping the tourism potential of Karnataka’s coastline while improving infrastructure, connectivity and visitor facilities.
Five destinations identified for development
The identified locations include Trasi-Maravanthe, Kodi-Kundapura Beach and Barkur Fort in Udupi district, along with Kodikal and Tannirbhavi Beach in Dakshina Kannada district.
The selection of these destinations is part of the state’s broader plan to develop coastal tourism in a sustainable and organised manner. The government intends to combine tourism infrastructure with improved connectivity and facilities to attract more visitors to the coastal region.
The PPP model is expected to facilitate private-sector participation in the development and management of tourism projects while allowing the government to focus on policy, infrastructure and regulatory support.
IPE Global appointed as PMU
IPE Global has been entrusted with the role of Programme Management Unit for sustainable development and tourism promotion in coastal Karnataka.
As the PMU, the agency will support the government in planning and coordinating tourism development initiatives and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
The appointment comes as the state seeks to implement its Coastal and Malnad Karnataka Tourism Policy, which places emphasis on developing tourism destinations while ensuring that growth is environmentally responsible.
The policy seeks to position coastal Karnataka as a high-quality tourism region equipped with world-class facilities and recognised for responsible tourism.
Ernst & Young to advise on PPP projects
Ernst & Young LLP has been appointed as the transaction adviser for the five identified tourism destinations.
The agency will work on the development of Trasi-Maravanthe, Kodi-Kundapura Beach and Barkur Fort in Udupi district, and Kodikal and Tannirbhavi Beach in Dakshina Kannada under the PPP model.
The transaction adviser will assist in structuring the projects and facilitating private participation. The approach is intended to create tourism infrastructure while making use of private-sector expertise and investment.
The development of diverse destinations, ranging from beaches and coastal landscapes to heritage locations such as Barkur Fort, is expected to broaden the tourism experience available in the region.
Seaplanes and heli taxis planned
MLC Ivan D’Souza said the Coastal and Malnad Karnataka Tourism Policy is being implemented and that steps are being taken to speed up tourism development across the region.
He said Tourism Minister K J George has given priority to commitments made in the 2026-27 State Budget.
As part of the proposed Integrated Coastal Tourism Development Project, the government plans to establish connectivity to selected destinations through seaplanes and heli taxis in collaboration with stakeholders from the aviation and water adventure tourism sectors.
The plan also includes promoting joy rides and river cruise activities.
According to D’Souza, in-principle approval has already been accorded to implement the budget announcement.
Improved air and water connectivity could make several coastal destinations more accessible to tourists, particularly locations that may currently require longer road journeys.
Policy covers coastal and Malnad regions
The Coastal and Malnad Karnataka Tourism Policy has a wider geographical scope beyond the five destinations currently being prioritised.
In coastal Karnataka, the policy covers Uttara Kannada, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts.
It also extends to parts of the Malnad region, including Chikkamagaluru district covering Chikkamagaluru, Mudigere, Koppa, Sringeri and NR Pura taluks.
In Shivamogga district, the policy covers Thirthahalli, Sagara and Hosanagara taluks. In Hassan district, Sakleshpura and Aluru taluks are included.
The broader policy is intended to create an integrated tourism circuit connecting coastal and Malnad destinations, potentially allowing visitors to experience beaches, rivers, forests, adventure activities and heritage sites within the region.
Focus on adventure tourism and roadside amenities
D’Souza said the government is also looking to tap opportunities in adventure water sports and coastal tourism.
The plan includes developing the coastline and improving roadside amenities. Highway hubs are also proposed as part of the effort to make road travel more convenient for tourists.
Better roadside facilities could support increased tourist movement along the coastal highway network while providing spaces for travellers to rest, access essential services and explore local attractions.
The promotion of water sports and other adventure activities is also expected to diversify coastal tourism beyond conventional beach visits.
Sustainable development remains key focus
The government’s emphasis on sustainable tourism comes as tourist numbers and development pressures continue to increase along the coast. The policy aims to balance tourism infrastructure with responsible management of natural and cultural resources.
The five projects will provide an initial focus for implementing the government’s broader coastal tourism vision. With IPE Global serving as the PMU and Ernst & Young LLP as transaction adviser, the state is seeking to move from policy announcements towards structured project development.
If implemented as planned, the initiative could strengthen coastal Karnataka’s tourism infrastructure, improve connectivity and create new opportunities for local businesses and communities.
The government’s proposed combination of PPP-based destination development, improved transport links, adventure tourism and upgraded public amenities is expected to play a significant role in shaping the next phase of tourism development along Karnataka’s coast.