Mangaluru: The Karnataka tourism department has moved forward with plans to develop a resort at Tannirbhavi Beach and another at Kodikal on the banks of the Gurupur River, in line with the 2025-26 state budget announcement. Officials said tenders have been invited to appoint consultants to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for both proposed resorts, signalling a major step toward boosting coastal tourism infrastructure.

These initiatives fall under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29, which envisions tapping into the state’s tourism potential by attracting private investments and creating world-class facilities.

Tenders floated for Tannirbhavi project

According to MLC Ivan D’Souza, the tender process for the Tannirbhavi Beach resort has already reached an advanced stage. The bids were opened on August 7, with three bidders participating. The department is currently in the process of finalising the consultant for the project.

“Tannirbhavi is a prime location, but the absence of premium accommodation has been a hurdle for investors. I have already brought this matter to the attention of tourism minister H K Patil,” D’Souza said.

He also underlined that the lack of a five-star hotel in Mangaluru continues to deter investors and tourists alike, limiting the city’s appeal as a high-end travel destination.

Kodikal project to undergo open tendering

On the proposed resort at Kodikal, D’Souza explained that tenders were floated to appoint a tourism adviser. However, as per the original conditions, only bidders empanelled with the infrastructure development, ports and inland water transport department were eligible.

During a pre-bid meeting, several interested bidders requested the government to make the process more inclusive by opening it to all eligible applicants. Taking this into account, the tourism department has decided to invite a fresh open tender for the Kodikal project.

“This approach will encourage wider participation and attract more credible proposals, ensuring that the project is not just viable but also future-ready,” D’Souza added.

Coastal tourism masterplan

The state government is actively pursuing an integrated plan to strengthen tourism in coastal Karnataka. At the investors’ meet held in Mangaluru on February 19, the tourism department presented a vision for developing the region into a major tourist hub.

Officials disclosed that as many as 44 tourism nodes across coastal Karnataka have been identified for phased development through public-private partnerships (PPPs). These nodes cover beaches, riverfronts, heritage sites, and eco-tourism destinations.

The department hopes that projects like Tannirbhavi and Kodikal will act as catalyst developments, spurring further private investment into the sector.

Investor sentiment and opportunities

The government’s renewed focus comes at a time when tourism stakeholders have been pushing for better infrastructure to attract both domestic and international visitors.

Mangaluru, despite its strategic location, port connectivity, and airport facilities, has so far lagged behind in terms of luxury accommodation and tourist-centric amenities. The proposed resorts are expected to bridge this gap, providing a base for tourists while enhancing the city’s reputation as a cultural and coastal destination.

Investors are also expected to benefit from the favourable policy framework under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29, which offers incentives, simplified clearances, and long-term lease models for tourism projects.

Conclusion

MANGALURU: With tenders underway for Tannirbhavi and Kodikal resorts, the state government has signalled its intent to transform the coastal belt into a world-class tourism hub. While the success of these projects will depend on timely execution and quality partnerships, they hold the promise of addressing longstanding gaps in infrastructure and investor confidence.

If implemented as planned, these resorts could serve as a model for future tourism projects across Karnataka, giving a much-needed boost to the coastal economy and positioning Mangaluru as a premium travel destination.