Dakshina Kannada, a coastal gem located just 347 km from Bengaluru, continues to attract a multitude of tourists, both domestic and foreign, despite the scorching summer heat. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and a plethora of tourist attractions, the district has experienced a notable surge in visitor numbers this year.
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Key Highlights:
- Tourist Influx: From January to April, the district has already welcomed over one crore (1,65,96,212) visitors, with tourist footfall steadily increasing from December onwards. The scenic beaches, temples, museums, and natural wonders such as waterfalls and caves have contributed to this influx.
- Tourist Hotspots: The district boasts a diverse range of attractions, including beaches like Surathkal, Panambur, and Ullal, temples such as Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple and Dharmasthala Temple, and natural wonders like Western Ghats and various waterfalls.
- Foreign Tourists: Moodbidri Thousand Pillar Basadi and Pilikula Nisrgadhama have emerged as popular destinations for foreign tourists, with significant footfall recorded at these sites. Dharmasthala Temple also witnessed a notable influx of foreign visitors, particularly in January.
- Tourism Boost: Initiatives like the Shakti scheme, offering free travel for women within Karnataka, have contributed to the boost in tourism. Additionally, the summer months, coinciding with school holidays, have further fueled the surge in visitor numbers.
- Hotel Occupancy: Hotel occupancy rates have seen a steady rise, reaching up to 80% in recent weeks. Despite a temporary dip in April due to election-related travel disruptions, the hotel industry has bounced back to robust numbers.
- Rising Trend: The district has witnessed a significant upward trend in tourism over the past three years, rebounding from the pandemic-induced slump in 2022. With visitor numbers continuing to soar, the district remains a preferred destination for travelers from across the country.
Visitor Experiences:
- Tourists like Amit, Ranjitha, Uthara, and Deeksha share their memorable experiences, ranging from scenic train journeys to beach outings and temple visits, highlighting the diverse attractions the district has to offer.
Despite the sweltering heat, the allure of Dakshina Kannada’s natural beauty and cultural heritage continues to draw tourists, promising a memorable experience amidst the coastal paradise. With the onset of pre-monsoon showers, the district anticipates further growth in tourist arrivals.
