The Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) is all set to return with its second edition. This travel and tourism event will take place from 26 – 28 February 2025 in Bengaluru, showcasing Karnataka as a vibrant and diverse global tourism hub.
Sri H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, Tourism, Government of Karnataka, unveiled the KITE – 2025 logo along with brochures at the curtain-raiser event organized on 1st February, 2025 at Vidhana Soudha. Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka; Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka; Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation; Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), along with the office bearers of KTS and other officials, were present on the occasion.
Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and the ‘Karnataka Tourism Society,’ KITE 2025 promises to be a platform that brings together stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality industries. The event aims to foster new partnerships, promote business opportunities, and spotlight Karnataka’s unique offerings, including its heritage, culture, adventure, wellness, and nature-based tourism.
This is a platform for B2B networking, with over 400 hosted buyers from India and abroad, alongside more than 150 stakeholders from Karnataka, ensuring impactful interactions for trade and industry professionals. The event will showcase Karnataka’s treasures, featuring dedicated pavilions that highlight the state’s iconic destinations, emerging tourism circuits, and sustainable tourism initiatives. It will give an experience of cultural extravaganza, with evening programs that celebrate Karnataka’s rich heritage, including its art, music, and cuisine, offering a vibrant taste of the state’s diverse culture.
Speaking about the event, Sri HK Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, law and Parliament Affairs, Govt. of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka is home to a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to travelers of all kinds. The second edition of KITE reflects our commitment to positioning Karnataka as a top-tier destination on the global tourism map while driving economic growth through tourism partnerships. The ‘Karnataka International Travel Expo’ underscores our dedication to showcasing Karnataka as a world-class tourism destination. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, pristine nature, and adventure opportunities, our state has something unique to offer every traveler. This Expo will not only strengthen B2B collaborations but also reinforce Karnataka’s position on the global tourism map.”
Major National and State level Trade and hospitality associations including the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India, Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India (ADTOI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), India Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), BCIC, FKCCI, FHRAI, Karnataka Tourism Forum, Enterprising Agents Association of India (ETAA), SKAL, South India Hotel and Restaurant Association (SIHRA), Travel Agent Federation of India (TAFI), etc. are among the many support the event.
Organizing events like the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) as a hosted buyer B2B event benefits Karnataka as a tourism destination in multiple ways. It will enhance global visibility by showcasing Karnataka’s diverse attractions, from its rich heritage to eco-tourism and wellness retreats. The event will bring international buyers who will promote Karnataka as a global tourism destination. It will also facilitate business opportunities, connecting local tourism businesses with global buyers, fostering partnerships, and promoting local enterprises.
KITE 2025 drives revenue and creates jobs, especially in rural areas. Additionally, it promotes lesser-known destinations and sustainable tourism, helping distribute traffic and conserve heritage. It strengthens Karnataka’s brand, attracting investments and establishing it as a premier travel hub. Participation is open to tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hotel chains, and other tourism-related businesses seeking to explore and invest in Karnataka’s flourishing tourism sector.
The event features over 10,000 B2B appointments through online scheduling. It will showcase 20+ tourism segments, including adventure, wildlife, business travel, and heritage sites. 150 exhibitors will represent Karnataka’s premier destinations and products. The event also includes pre and post-event familiarization tours to iconic locations like Hampi, Coorg, Kabini, Mysore, and more, providing an immersive experience of Karnataka’s diverse tourism offerings.
Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka said “The Karnataka International Travel Expo is more than just an event—it is a celebration of Karnataka’s immense tourism potential. By bringing together stakeholders from across the globe, we aim to facilitate meaningful dialogue, foster innovation, and ensure sustainable growth in the tourism sector. We look forward to welcoming partners and participants to this dynamic platform.”
Dr. KV. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation said “On behalf of the State of Karnataka, I extend a warm invitation to all to join us at the Karnataka International Travel Expo 2025. As organizers, we are deeply committed to showcasing the unique tourism products and services of Karnataka to a global audience. This premier event is a vital platform for fostering meaningful relationships between the global travel trade and our state’s tourism stakeholders. Together, we aim to position Karnataka as a leading destination on the global tourism map, while celebrating our rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy.”
Mr. K Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society added “The Karnataka International Travel Expo has proven to be a game-changer for the tourism industry in our state. By providing a dedicated platform for stakeholders to network, collaborate, and showcase their offerings to a global audience, the event has significantly enhanced business opportunities across sectors. From promoting lesser-known destinations to driving footfalls at established landmarks, KITE 2025 continues to create a ripple effect, boosting the livelihoods of countless individuals and businesses in Karnataka’s tourism ecosystem.”
