ADTOI Launches Karnataka Chapter to Scale Domestic Tourism

The domestic travel sector in Southern India is seeing a strategic shift toward organized, professional collaboration. On August 19, 2026, the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) formally launched its Karnataka Chapter during an installation ceremony at Hotel Maurya, Race Course Road, Bengaluru. This move signals a transition from fragmented tour operations to a cohesive network designed to optimize tourism circuits across the state.

The new leadership team is tasked with bridging the gap between local operators and national travel trends. The chapter is led by Chairman Mr. Roshan Pinto, Secretary Ms. Poonam Shetty, and Treasurer Ms. Bhavana Jalan. Supporting the strategic rollout are Ms. Neena L. Pereira (Lady Entrepreneur Officer), Mr. H. Jagadeesh (National Growth Committee for Chapter), and Mr. Ramananda K. S. (State Chapter Advisor).

The launch drew high-level validation from the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) and the Government of Karnataka. Key attendees included Shri M. Srinivas, Chairman of KSTDC; Shri Manoj Kumar, IFS, Principal Secretary (Forests); and Shri Janardhan H. P., Joint Director of the Department of Tourism. The presence of these officials, alongside Shri K. Syama Raju (President of SIHRA and KTS), underscores a state-level commitment to integrating wildlife, heritage, and coastal tourism into a singular, accessible domestic product.

Cultural & Environmental Value

For the visitor, the real impact of this professionalization is a shift toward "Responsible Travel." By unifying operators, the ADTOI Karnataka Chapter is moving away from mass-market tourism and toward experiential journeys that support regional heritage.

The focus is now on diversifying the visitor's path—moving beyond the primary hubs to highlight spiritual centers, adventure tourism, and the state's diverse natural ecosystems. This structured approach allows for better management of tourist flows, reducing the environmental strain on fragile wildlife zones and ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism reach smaller, rural communities and local artisans rather than remaining concentrated in urban centers.

Visitor Insider Tips

To experience Karnataka beyond the standard brochures, travelers should consider these local insights:

Off-Peak Windows: Visit the Western Ghats and coastal regions between October and February to avoid the monsoon rains and extreme summer heat.
Cultural Etiquette: When visiting the spiritual centers and ancient temples of Hampi or Belur, modest dress is mandatory; carry a light shawl to cover shoulders.
Dining Specialty: Seek out Bisi Bele Bath and Mysore Pak from local heritage eateries rather than hotel buffets for an authentic taste of the region.
Under-the-Radar Spot: Explore the Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebidu during early morning hours to avoid crowds and capture the intricate stone carvings in soft natural light.

Tourism Outlook

The long-term trajectory for Karnataka is one of sustainable integration. By fostering a partnership between the private sector and government bodies like the KSTDC, the state is positioning itself as a primary hub for domestic travelers seeking a blend of nature and antiquity. The establishment of this chapter provides a formal voice for local operators, ensuring that infrastructure growth keeps pace with the increasing demand for high-quality, sustainable domestic circuits.

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