Department of Tourism Government of Karnataka · Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka Page | 3 Draft Karnataka Tourism Policy 2014-2019 1. Introduction Karnataka, one of

Department

PR20

of Tourism, G

ROPO014- 2

Government o

OSED 2019

of Karnataka

KARN

NATA

Draft Ka

AKA T

arnataka Tou

TOUR

urism Policy

RISM P

Page | 1

y 2014-2019

POLIC

DRAFT CAPRIL

CY

COPY 2014

Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka Page | 2

Draft Karnataka Tourism Policy 2014-2019

KARNATAKA TOURISM POLICY 2014-2019

Department of Tourism Government of Karnataka



1. Introduction

Karnataka, one of the most progressive and well developed industrial states in the country, is focused on development of trade and service sectors, through various initiatives and policies. It is home to several forts, architectural marvels and is blessed with a rich cultural heritage of over 1500 years. Other diverse visitor attractions include pilgrim sites, coastal landscape, wildlife / national parks, Eco Tourism, Wellness Tourism – Alternate Lifestyle/ Yoga, Voluntary Tourism and Adventure Tourism. Over the years, Karnataka has also emerged as a strong contender in the global market for Business Tourism. The State has been ranked as the 4th preferred destination among domestic tourists and is the 3rd preferred destination for attracting investments in the tourism sector.

The “Karnataka Tourism Policy 2014-2019” focuses on accelerating and facilitating private investments in the tourism sector, and strives to be an outcome based initiative. The policy follows a non discriminatory approach to incentivise and promote the local community as well as private sector for contributing towards the development of tourism sector. This policy strives towards creating an enabling environment for tourism in Karnataka by addressing and providing guiding

framework pertaining to governance structures, tourist infrastructure, manpower requirements, service standards and, safety and security of tourists. The Policy lays emphasis on creating a “quality experiences, appealing to different visitor segments”, by promoting development of various tourism products which will encourage repeat visits and increased length of stay and spends by tourists. The Policy encourages shift in attitudes - from regulation and control to empowerment, from patronage to partnership, and from linear government-lead structures to alliances with diverse stakeholders in the sector.

2. Vision and Objectives Tourism is one of the priority sectors identified in the Government’s overall growth strategy for the state. Karnataka should aim to be in the top 2 tourism destinations in India and top 50 in the world. The vision articulated for the tourism sector is as follows: “To develop Karnataka as a dynamic, sustainable and most-favoured tourism destination - by increasing domestic & international visitations, offering high quality experience to visitors, facilitating and accelerating investments and improving livelihood opportunities at the local level”. It is estimated that the fresh employment possibilities at 4.3 million (based on global norms of 10% employment in the sector), additional revenue potential of Rs. 83,000 crs (through direct and indirect taxes) and the investments of Rs. 73,000 crores with 50% government funding (infrastructure, destination and mobility) is needed for providing a fillip to Tourism in the State by 2024. To achieve the vision and set the direction for the tourism industry over the next five years, the following objectives are outlined:

It is estimated that approximately 62 billion and 7 million domestic & foreign tourists respectively will visit Karnataka in the year 2015.



Objectives

Accelerate and facilitate private investments and promoting entrepreneurship in the tourism sector.

Motivate and enthuse entities from different segments of the society with substantial incentives to contribute towards development of the sector.

Higher growth in visitations and duration of stay of different visitor segments, through improved infrastructure, products and services.

Improve ‘total quality’ experience to visitors, from before arrival till after departure, by

providing better access to information, greater choice in destinations, compendium of services for eating, shopping, participative safe and hassle-free experience at various travel stages.

Promote effective inter-departmental co-ordination to streamline processes and increase sector performance.

Enhance tourism industry skills, knowledge and professionalism to provide visitors a pleasant experience and promote local employment opportunities.

3. Strategic Framework To realize the core objectives of the Policy and achieve the larger vision outlined for the sector, the Government of Karnataka has identified the following strategic intervention areas:

Facilitate improvement of Infrastructure, Tourism Products and Services Position Karnataka as a preferred tourism destination at state, national and international levels Create institutional structures for effective implementation of the policy Streamline processes for obtaining clearances Offer attractive incentives for various tourism products and services Prioritise Human Resources Development & Capacity Enhancement

The Government endeavours to pursue these strategic intervention areas by encouraging local

entrepreneurship, promoting private sector participation, identifying additional means of raising finances

and supporting the interventions through its own budgets and resources. The thrust will be on:

Promoting Public Private Partnerships (PPP), creation of SPVs, Joint Ventures, and other appropriate structures.

Encouraging corporate groups to invest in tourism projects related to community involvement and rural tourism through their CSR initiatives.

Leveraging existing financing options extended by multi-lateral agencies, viz., the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, etc.



Efficient utilization of funds available under state sponsored schemes and central government schemes.

Exploring innovate financing mechanisms through capital markets.

A set of actions have been identified for each of the strategic intervention areas, which are elaborated

in the following sections. Detailed guidelines for undertaking activities in the identified areas including

the incentives and concessions offered by the Government are elaborated in the Policy.

A. Improve Infrastructure, Tourism Products and Services To achieve growth in visitor numbers and duration of stay, the government shall pursue the actions highlighted below, some of which are already being implemented by the tourism department and other departments in the state.

Assist and facilitate development & maintenance of basic tourism infrastructure and facilities at destinations

Promote new and innovative tourism products and services Improve connectivity infrastructure Improve access and delivery of tourism information services

Basic tourism infrastructure and facilities at destinations

Tourist Accommodation

o Promote quality accommodation including homestays. The definition of homestays includes heritage homestays developed at various locations, including Hampi. The Homestays Policy/ Guidelines have been strengthened to encourage registered homestays across the State. A mechanism for inspection, certification and licensing of the homestays are also defined.

o Encourage heritage buildings to convert into heritage hotels.

o Facilitate development of accommodation for all customer segments through serviced apartments, cottages, camping sites, dormitories, youth hostels & yatrinivas at tourist destinations.

At destination and wayside amenities

o Promote wayside amenities including gender distinct toilets, cafeteria, mini store/ pharmacy and an information / souvenir booth at intervals of about 50 km along connecting roads leading to major tourist destinations.

o Where possible dry toilet pits and a separate washing with water/drainage facility will be promoted. Wayside amenities especially benefitting local communities will be encouraged.

o Retail for local produce, crafts, adult literacy progammes, access to internet etc. will be encouraged, wherever possible. Initiatives for physical manifestation of brand perceptions will be promoted, eg. silk.



o Amenities including parking at the entrance of major tourist destinations will be promoted to regulate vehicular movement, with special access for the physically challenged. Thrust would be given to provide information centers/ kiosks at all major tourist destinations. Accredited tourist Guide services will also be promoted.

o Community kitchens and cluster of public conveniences at rural locations will be encouraged, largely through private entrepreneurs/ franchisees.

New and innovative tourism products and services

Theme Parks

o World-class exhibition and convention complexes through appropriate PPP framework will be promoted in Bangalore, Mysore and other important cities in the state.

o Private enterprise, in collaboration with international exhibition companies, will be encouraged to establish these exhibition complexes backed by Government support and incentives.

o Theme and Entertainment parks will be promoted in Bangalore and other places in Karnataka.

Heritage Zones and Clusters

o Better utilization of existing market and research data will be made to identify and develop the heritage zones and clusters.

o Heritage zones will be earmarked around the sites of Hampi, Pattadakal, Badami, Aihole, Bidar, Bijapur, etc. and development will be promoted in accordance with the master plans prepared.

o Efforts would also be made to include more heritage sites into UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list for bringing in significant international recognition and tourist traffic through preparation of integrated Site Management Plans, proposals to Government of India etc. The Government will pursue applying for other heritage sites like the Hoysala region, Srirangapatna and the Deccan Sultanate architecture.

o Integrated Tourism Management Plans will be encouraged for cities like Mysore, Bijapur and Bidar, as well as other smaller towns with heritage value.

o To improve the maintenance of existing tourist destinations, adoption/ management/ sponsorship programs will be promoted to create ownership between locals/corporate for monuments, temples and destinations.

o To increase length of stay of visitors, development of tourist villages near existing attractions, will be encouraged.

o Strategies for places like Melkote, Somnathpur, Shravanbelagola, Talakad and the entire Western Ghats will be formulated to encourage overnight stays with compelling experiences and participative opportunities.



Marine/ Coastal Tourism

o Cruises of international standards would be promoted in Mangalore and Karwar, especially through private sector participation.

o Coracles, catamarans and traditional sail boats plus houseboats will also be promoted at identified stretches.

Eco Tourism

o Eco Tourism will be promoted as a core tourism activity in close collaboration with the Forest Department.

o An eco-tourism zone stretching from Coorg to Karwar will be identified and a chain of nature camps will be encouraged and promoted as Jungle Trails in the zone.

Health & Wellness

Thrust would be provided to promote Karnataka’s traditional systems of medicine and wellness like Yoga, Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, etc. and efforts would be made to position the state as a unique destination for spiritual healing and wellness tourism.

Adventure Tourism

The Government will promote adventure tourism activities in Karnataka, under three heads - Aero Adventure, Aqua Adventure and Land Adventure by collaborating with national and international adventure tourism and activity operators.

Weekend Tourism

The Government will actively promote destinations as weekend getaways. Tourist destinations in close proximity to major urban centers in the state will be identified and promoted as clusters, where visitors can reach in shorter travel time and enjoy a 2 day stay with engaging activities.

State border Tourism

o The Government will encourage tourism activities along the bordering areas of the state. Intensive marketing and promotion activities to increase visitations from neighbouring states would be given a special thrust.

o Access infrastructure to these destinations shall be developed by collaborating with other state agencies/ departments, to enable a smooth and comfortable commute.

Health Care Tourism

o The potential for Karnataka as a quality health care destination would be unleashed and initiatives for attracting tourists from outside the state and country for availing benefits of advanced medical treatment facilities will be encouraged.

o Bangalore and Mangalore will be promoted as health care tourism clusters, and private sector participation in development activities will be encouraged.



Urban Tourism

o Four main urban centres are identified in the state for tourism development - Bangalore (population: 8,499,399), Mysore (population: 983,893), Hubli-Dharwad (population: 943,857) and Mangalore (population: 619, 664).

o The Government will promote activities that create positive experiences for the tourists in these urban areas through development of tourist precincts, parks, race courses, golf courses, museums, galleries, shopping malls etc.

Heritage walks and Nature Trails

o Trekking, nature walks and heritage walks will be actively promoted and attractive incentive packages would be offered.

Connectivity infrastructure

Transport and Aviation o The Government will endeavour to increase entry points and improve direct access to

different destinations across the State for international, interstate and intrastate visitors by encouraging development of new routes, expanding existing airport capacity, etc.

o Development of low cost terminals, use of smaller aircrafts & airfields and ties with flying clubs will be encouraged.

Last mile connectivity o Improving last mile road/ rail connectivity to tourist destinations will be a priority area and

Government will co-ordinate with other government agencies/ departments in facilitating these development activities.

o Intermodal transport connectivity such as link from railway stations and bus terminals to tourist destinations where required, will be developed in collaboration with respective government agencies/ departments.

Coastal transport system/ Cruise tourism o The transport system along the coastline will be strengthened to move along traditional

ports and also promote cruise tourism

Zero pollution modes of transport o Environment friendly vehicles having a minimum impact on the ecology of the destination

will be promoted.

Access and delivery of tourism information and other services The government will endeavour to provide a ‘Total Quality Experience’ to the visitors – before arrival till after departure, by promoting the following initiatives:



Tourist Amenities o Amenities like information kiosks, trained guides/ audio guides, interpretation centres, green

police, medical aid, access to physically handicapped at all major tourist destinations will be encouraged for development.

Information, Communication & Technology (ICT) o Initiatives will be encouraged to provide adequate and reliable information about

destinations, accommodations, itinerary, events, online bookings and other offerings through various modes such as online web portals, tourism offices, booklets, flyers, brochures, maps etc.

o Provision of audio guides, mobile technology, wi-fi at major tourist destinations will be encouraged. Technology interventions for social networking and data management will be supported.

o Apart from promoting a digital marketing and information collateral, the Government will support other initiatives for branding and promotion such as development of information and interpretation centers at tourist destinations.

Provision will be made to have a dedicated fund for technology development under the State Budget awarded for tourism projects.

Safety and security of visitors o The Tourism Police Force “Green Police”, will be established for visible policing in key

tourist destinations for the safety and security of visitors.

o A Disaster Management Plan is proposed to be developed for major tourism destinations to brace for any eventuality. A dedicated helpline number will be launched exclusively for the convenience of tourists.

o Access for the physically challenged will be promoted at all major tourist destinations.

B. Position Karnataka as a preferred tourism destination at state, national and international levels

Prioritising activity in key markets (local, domestic and international) and across market segments is

critical to achieve the objectives set out in this Policy. The Government shall undertake the following

actions to position Karnataka as a preferred tourism destination within the state, and at national and

international levels.

Increase branding, marketing and promotional activities across different visitor groups Create a Calendar of Events to support marketing and promotional activities Develop data/ information repositories



Branding, Marketing and Promotional Activities

“One State, Many Worlds” – Karnataka’s tourism tagline o The tagline will be the identity of the state.

o An integrated marketing approach will be adopted to ensure that relevant events are communicated to target markets and can be factored into downstream product development and in-bound tour offerings.

o Other promotional activities through conferences, road shows, craft bazaars, fairs and festivals and other exchange programs will be undertaken.

Calendar of Events o A Five-Year calendar of events across Karnataka will be drawn up, including 4-5 hallmark

events that will be organized annually.

o Various regional and indigenous tourism products will be offered as a part of the Event Calendar to integrate business with leisure tourism.

o Major event zone processes will be simplified on trading hours, liquor licenses etc. to cater to visitor expectations.

Tourism Industry Profile & State Tourism Database Repository o The Department of Tourism will endeavour to create a ‘Tourism Industry Profile’, to aid in

planning and decision-making for both industry and government. The profile will be created based on quality research (quantitative & qualitative assessment) studies.

o The Department will also strive to set up a State Tourism Database Repository, publish an annual state of the industry report and organise annual industry outlook conferences.

C. Create institutional structures for effective implementation of the

Policy

To implement the strategic interventions and undertake various activities outlined in the Policy, it is

critical to establish appropriate institutional structures for implementation. The Government is

committed to the following actions in this regard:

Implementation of the Policy through highest level of coordination between various stakeholders, across the infrastructure sector.

Promote a partnership model that recognises the distinct roles of government and industry, to realize the vision.

Streamline existing governance structures to enable better governance and accountability of the stakeholders involved.



Proposed Institutional Framework

An institutional framework comprising a Council at the Government level and a 100% Government Company under the egis of Department of Tourism is proposed to be set up. The key objectives of the Council would be to provide necessary inputs on planning and implementation of tourism projects, while setting the overall direction and guidelines for development of tourism in the State.

The Council shall assist in prioritizing, master planning and evolving implementation frameworks for projects envisaged under the tourism sector. It will facilitate infrastructure creation and management through formation of Infrastructure Company and strengthen and empower existing state level entities such as JMA, HWHAMA, District Tourism Councils.

The Council will also provide necessary regulatory measures in terms of registration of

tourism facilities and activities to ensure quality facilities and services to the tourists visiting the State.

The mandate of the Company would be to expedite development of infrastructure facilities in the tourist areas. Certain function-specific entities are also proposed to be set up at a State/district/local level to focus on all aspects of tourism including planning/strategizing and implementation in a phased manner.

The Government realizes the need for closer interaction with other stakeholders (including local small and medium entrepreneurs). To facilitate interactions, a well defined legal framework is being proposed under Karnataka Tourism Trade Industry facilitation Act.

D. Human Resources Development & Capacity Enhancement It is estimated that about 4.3 million jobs will be created in the sector by 2020, but the skills required for these jobs requires to be strengthened. To address the skill gaps and provide better employment opportunities for the people, the Government shall undertake the following actions:

Provide training to different stakeholder groups as well as support community through customized capacity building programs, exposure visits, vocational courses, short-term online courses and other tourism related programs.

Promote Vocational Training Institutes at strategic locations, offering a range of courses. Develop curriculum for job-oriented courses which can be offered to school/ college drop

outs.



Training / Capacity Building

Karnataka Tourism Human Resources Strategy o The Government will collaborate with the expertise and resources available with

international tourism training organizations towards developing a Karnataka Tourism Human Resources Strategy. Training will be imparted to government officials, guides, hospitality staff, including homestay hosts, tour operators, SMEs, etc.

Licensing & Certification of tour guides o A new category of skilled guides will be trained that will cater to the upper echelon of

tourists.

o Licensing and certification of tour guides in order to standardize their services (through a competency test) and accreditation of travel agents will be promoted.

Capacity enhancement at local level o Education and enhancement of competencies for local communities in the surroundings of a

tourism clusters will be encouraged, as a tool to catalyse economic opportunities from tourism activities.

Tourism Education & HR Policies

Professional courses o The Department of Tourism will support various institutions in Karnataka that offer

programs in tourism and tourism related programs, including language centres such as Alliance Francaise, Max Mueller Bhavan, etc. Contact classes will be encouraged to be held in affiliated educational/ training institutions. Award of Degrees and Diploma Certificates from accredited institutions and universities will be facilitated.

o Institutions will be encouraged to include sustainable tourism development as part of their curriculum. Assistance will be provided in curriculum development for a comprehensive range of programs.

o Support would be extended for professional development training programs on sustainable tourism curriculum design and implementation for current secondary and post-secondary institution teaching staff as well as future teachers in this sector. Training assistance will be extended for public agencies and industry officials at the State and local levels of government and industry.

Vocational Skills Training & HR Policies o The industry is likely to generate an additional employment possibility of up to 4.3 million in

the next few years. Keeping this in mind, the Government will introduce at least one Government aided and sponsored vocational training centre in each major city in Karnataka with special emphasis on training for Tourist Guides and support staff in housekeeping, front office, reception, etc. across all tourist destinations.

o The Government will also consider liberal policies and rules under contract labour act to ensure availability of larger work force in non-core areas of hospitality, such as security, kitchen stewarding, maintenance and cleaning services. Technology improvement can allow



on-line compliances and effective implementation to various mandatory licenses like, such as labour, social security (ESIC & PF), excise and food safety.

o The Government will focus on developing a strong human resources policy that enables the community to seek employment in the hospitality and tourism sector.

o All major Tourism Projects will make provisions for additional space for accommodating HR related activities to meet the training needs.



4. Incentives & Concessions Incentives The Government is committed to improving the tourism industry in the state by adopting an inclusive and balanced regional development approach. Taluks and tourist destinations in the state have been classified into five different categories, in terms of their backwardness (based on the Nanjundappa Committee Report, 2002) and tourist arrivals. The classification of taluks/ tourist destinations is provided in Annexure 1. Further, activities/ services in the tourism industry that qualify for availing incentives have been identified and broadly classified under the following categories: (a) Tourism Infrastructure and Products, (b) Tourism Equipment, (c) Other tourism infrastructure (signages, toilets, charging points, etc), (d) Training & Human Resources Development and (e) Media and Publicity. Incentives to encourage participation of private sector and local entrepreneurs have been structured, based on the classification of taluks/ tourist destinations, type of infrastructure, tourism products & services to be developed and nature of developers/ promoters/ entrepreneurs and institutions, Details of incentives are provided in Annexure 2. Procedure for Registration and Applying for Incentives

The steps to be followed by an Applicant seeking incentives for any tourism related project, is explained below.

Eligibility

The Applicant may be an individual, a firm, company, trust, NGO, government agency etc. Incentives would be given based on the type of project, location, size, scale, compliance to requirements as mentioned in the Guidelines provided in this Policy and approval by the respective Approving Authority(s) set up by the Department of Tourism etc.

Tourism Project

Tourism Project shall include, but not be limited to facilities such as development of tourist infrastructure, and activities such as eco tourism, adventure tourism, coastal tourism, soft skill training and capacity building etc. Projects which include renovation, upgradation, improvement etc shall also be eligible. (Refer Annexure 2 for project categories and incentives. However, the list provided here is tentative; the Applicant will need to check the e-portal for the comprehensive list of Tourism Projects that are eligible for availing incentives from the Department of Tourism).

Guidelines for development

Please refer to the guidelines enclosed with this Policy for development of various tourism related infrastructure and services.



Procedure

o Online Registration through the e-portal set up by Department of Tourism for this purpose. Fee for registration would be as prescribed in the e-portal (the registration fee shall vary depending on the nature of project).

o Filling in of the requisite forms in the e-portal with required information on the details of the project. Details of the project would include project costs, with a break-down of the capital costs.

o Uploading of necessary documents (such as project report, approvals and permits from relevant authorities, licenses, certificate of incorporation/ registration, land related documents etc)

o The applicant would be provided with a provisional registration number.

o The application would be then evaluated by the Approving Authority set up by DoT. The Approving Authority would be assisted by the Independent Rating Agency for evaluation of the proposals.

o The Approving Authority would decide on the eligibility and quantum of incentive that could be offered to the applicant.

o Upon request by the Approving Authority, further details, if required, may need to be furnished by the applicant

o The applicant would then be informed whether or not incentive is being provided and in case it is being provided, then the quantum of incentive shall be made known.

o If approval is accorded by the Approving Authority, the Applicant would then be given a registration number along with details of the incentive disbursement

o The applicant would also need to apply subsequently for accreditation, which would be carried out by an independent rating agency appointed by the Department of Tourism.

o If at any time it is found that the Applicant is not complying/ adhering to norms/ standards as set out by the rating agency/ guidelines provided by DoT/ any other Government Agency under which the activity/ facility is being carried out, the registration shall be immediately cancelled, and all benefits extended by DoT such as enlisting on the website etc shall be withdrawn with immediate effect.

o The applicant shall submit monthly, quarterly and annual reports to DoT (through the e-portal), the formats of which shall be prescribed in the e-portal.

Concessions

The Government of Karnataka offers the following concessions for developing tourism projects in the state.

Registration charges

Registration charges shall be applicable as provided in the Industrial Policy 2009 -14 and as amended from time to time.



Stamp Duty

o 50% exemption on stamp duty for investment below Rs. 50 crores.

o 75% exemption on stamp duty for investment of Rs. 50 crores and above.

o 75% exemption on stamp duty on projects of Rs. 10 crores in category B and C towns.

o 75% exemption on stamp duty on projects over Rs. 5 crores in Category E towns.

(Refer Appendix 1 for Category of towns)

Land Conversion Fee

Conversion fee shall be applicable as provided in the Industrial Policy 2009 -14 and as amended from time to time.

Entertainment Tax

o 100% exemption for all cinema theatres newly constructed, including any new Multiplex

theatres situated within the limits of the local planning authority other than the

Corporation of the City of Bangalore, for a period of three years is allowed as provided

under Notification No. FD: 48:CEX: 96 dated 30-10-1996 and subject to the conditions

stipulated therein.

o Entry Tax as exempted in the Industrial Policy 2009-14.

Luxury Tax

No Luxury Tax shall be payable on room rent of Rs. 2000/- and below per day.

Motor Tax

Exemption to Tourist Vehicles from Motor Vehicle Tax will be provided for 2 years, on designated tourist routes.

Transfer of Development Rights

Development of certain tourism infrastructure projects shall be eligible for the award of

development rights certificate (DRC) from the local body concerned, as per prevailing

development regulations.

Note: All tax concessions will be as 1per notifications issued under the relevant Acts and subject to such conditions and procedures as prescribed in the notification.

1 Tourism infrastructure shall include theme parks, convention / exhibition centers, hotels, restaurants, homestays, wayside amenities, heli-tourism, marine tourism, information kiosks, interpretation centers, tourist centers and other related infrastructure to be approved by the Committee set up under the Department of Tourism.



5. Annual Awards The Department of Tourism shall announce annual awards under various development categories. All applicants registered with DoT shall be eligible to apply for the awards. The sectors considered eligible for incentives under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2014-19 will cover tourism projects in the Private Sector, State Public Sector/Joint Sector and the Co-operative Sector. The proposed tourist facilities shall be open to all and shall not be confined to the exclusive use of any particular individual or members of any group or region or have any such other restrictions.

6. Targets & Timelines The strategic interventions and corresponding action points would be implemented over the 5 year policy period. The timelines for implementation are indicated in the table below: Short Term (1-3 Years)

Position Karnataka as a preferred tourism destination at state, national and international levels. Undertake extensive marketing of tourism products through web, road shows, electronic and print media will be undertaken.

Develop 5 year Event Calendar which would be synchronized with other themes and Business Events to attract tourists and extend duration of stay of visitors.

Feasibility studies for establishing demand for various tourism facilities, such as mine tourism, marine Tourism, etc will be undertaken.

An institutional framework comprising Board at the Government level and a 100% Government Company under the egis of Department of Tourism is proposed to be set up.

Tie-ups with training institutes and capacity building programs for creating skilled manpower for the sector will be undertaken.

Develop weekend tourism products across the state and tourism activities in and around Bangalore.

Identify/map culture and heritage assets and precincts and prepare a plan for protection and management of the same.

Develop interpretation materials for promotion of tourism in both digital and print medium.

Medium Term (3-5 Years)

Designing of tour packages based on specific themes, preferably those that involve the geographical boundary and heritage of more than one State, will be undertake.

The nomination of trans-border World Heritage Sites would be further encouraged. Development of new destinations on wellness, tribal tourism, monsoon tourism, voluntary

tourism unexplored beaches, sports etc. will be undertaken. New concepts for weekend travel and Caravan Tourism will be promoted. Incentives and technical assistance will be provided to SMEs in the tourism sector, notably

local artisans and cottage industries producing high quality local handicrafts.



Long Term (5 - 10 Years)

Assess brand value and impact achieved and accordingly plan improvements. Development of large scale, flagship and iconic projects. Generate a strong industry profile for targeted marketing and promotional activities.



Annexure 1: Classification of Talukas/ tourist destinations



Sr. No

Taluka Destinations Identified for Tourism

Category2 Tourist Arrivals3

A B C D E High Medium Low

BAGALKOT

1 Badami Banashankari, Badami, Pattadkal, Mahakoota, Shivayogi Mandira

2 Bagalkot

3 Bilagi

4 Hungund Kudalasangama, Aihole

5 Jamkhandi

6 Mudhol

BANGALORE RURAL

7 Devanahalli Devanahalli , Tippu's Birth Place & Fort

8 Doddaballapur Ghati Subramanya, Kannaswadi, Madure Temple

9 Hosakote

10 Nelamangala Shivagange, Vittal Mandir

BANGALORE URBAN

11 Anekal Bannerghatta National Park, Muthyalamaduvu

12 13 14

Bangalore North Bangalore South Bangalore East

Lalbagh, Cubbon Park, Bull Temple, Tippu Palace, Fort , Someshwara Temple, ISKON,Vishweshwariah Museum

BELGAUM

15 Athani

2 Category is based on "Report of the High Power Committee for Redressal of Regional Imbalances in Karnataka", Dr. Nanjundappa Committee Report, 2002 A- Most Backward B- More Backward C- Backward D- Not Backward E- Well Developed 3 Tourist Arrival at Taluka-level is grouped into High, Medium, Low High: greater than or equal to 5 lakh tourists annually Medium: between 50,000 and 5 lakh tourists annually Low: lower than 50,000 tourist annually



Sr. No




16 Bailahongala Kittur, Sri Sogala Kshetra, Degam/Degavi

17 Belgaum Ramthirtha, Rajahansaghad, Navilutheertha

18 Chikkodi

19 Gokak Gokak Falls, Godachinamalki Falls, Doopadal

20 Hukkeri Ghataprabha

21 Khanapur Halasi

22 Raibag

23 Ramadurg Shabari Valley, Nidasosi

24 Soundatti Yallama Temple Savadatti, Malaprabha Dam

BELLARY

25 Bellary Bellary Fort, Kenchanagudda, Nagalakere, Sanganakallu

26 H. B. Halli

27 Hadagalli Kuruvathi, Mailara

28 Hospet Hampi, Tungabhadra Dam, Daroji Bear Park

29 Kudlugi Kotturu, Ujjini

30 Sandur Thorangal, Ramgad

31 Siriguppa

BIDAR

32 Aurad

33 Basavakal Basavakalyana, Narayanapura

34 Bhalki Karanja Project



Sr. No




35 Bidar Bidar, Bidar Fort,Gurudwara, Papanashini

36 Humnabad Humnabad, Jalasangi

BIJAPUR

37 Basavana Bagewadi

Almatti Dam, Basavana Bagewadi

38 Bijapur Golgumbaz & Ibrahimroza, Bijapur, Toravi

A B D E

39 Indi B C D E

40 Muddebihal B C D E

41 Sindgi B C D E

CHAMRAJNAGAR

42 Chamarajnagar Kanakagiri, Chikhole Reservoir, Karivaradaraja Betta

43 Gundlupet Bandipur, Himavad Gopala Swamy Hills, Therakanambi

44 Kollegal Male Mahadeshwara Hills, Kollegala, Hogenekal Falls

45 Yelandur Biligiri Rangana Hills A B C E

CHIKKABALLAPURA

46 Bagepalli Devaragudipalli Shree Venkataramana

47 Chikka‐ballapura Nandi Hills, Nandi village, Muddenahalli,Rangastala, Sir M. Visvesvaraya Birth Place & Museum

48 Chintamani Muragamalla, Kaiwara

49 Gowribidanur Vidhurashwatha, Minakanagurki

50 Gudibande Adinarayana Betta

51 Sidlaghatta Byrasagara Tank



Sr. No




CHIKMAGLURE

52 Chikmaglure Mullayyanagiri, Bababudangiri, Hiremagalur, Muthodi Game Sanctuary, Belvadi

53 Kadur Ayyanakere

54 Koppa Hirekodgi

55 Mudigere Kalasa, Horanadu, Kudremukh, Angadi, Ballalarayanadurga

56 N. R. Pura

57 Sringeri Sringeri, Kigga

58 Tarikere Kemmannagundi, Amruthapura Bhadra Project

CHITRADURGA

59 Challakere Thipperudraswamy Temple Nayakanahatti, Doddagudda

60 Chitradurga Chitradurga Fort, Chitradurga, Chandravalli, Jogimatti

61 Hiriyur Vanivilas Sagar, Marikanive

62 Holalkere Ganesha Temple

63 Hosadurga Halu Rameshwara

64 Molakalmuru A B C D E

DAKSHINA KANNADA

65 Bantwal

66 Belthangadi Dharmastala, Venur, Jamalabad Kote (Nasasimagad)

67 Mangalore Surathkal, Panambur, Ullal, Someswara, Kateelu, Moodabidre, Thaneer Bhavi, Pilikula Nisargadham



Sr. No




68 Puttur Bendretheertha, Shiradi, Uppinangadi, Mahalingeswara Temple

69 Sulya Kukke Subramanya Temple

DAVANAGERE

70 Channagiri Shanthisagara

71 Davanagere Kondajji Kere

72 Harihara Harihara, Harihareshwara Temple

73 Harpanahalli Bagali,Kalleswara

74 Honnali Santahebennure Pushkerni /Uchangi Durga, Thirtharameswara

75 Jagalur

DHARWAD

76 Dharwad Sadhankeri Lake, Nrupathunga Betta Sadanakere

77 Hubli Siddaroodha Matha, Vorooru, Sanjivini Park

78 Kalghatagi

79 Kundagol

80 Navalgund Navilgunda

GADAG

81 Gadag Lakkundi, Gadag, Beeshma Kere A B C E

82 Mundargi Singatalur A E

83 Naragund Naragund A E

84 Ron A E

85 Shirahatti A E

GULBARGA



Sr. No




86 Afzalpur Ganagapura, Datta Temple

87 Aland Aland

88 Chincholi Chandrampalli Dam, Chincholi

89 Chittapura Khaja Bandhe Nawaz Darga, Chayabhagawathi, Sannathi,Kalgi

90 Gulburga Gulbarga

91 Jevargi Jevargi

92 Sedam Sedam,Malkhed

HASSAN

93 Alur

94 Arakalgod Ramanathpur, Gorur Dam

95 Arasikere Haranahalli

96 Belur Belur, Halebidu

97 Channarayapatna Shravanabelagola

98 Hassan Hassan, Mosale Hosahalli, Shanthigrama, Koramangala, Doddagaddavalli

99 Holenarsipura Sri Ramadevara Betta

100 Sakeleshpura Maragunda

HAVERI

101 Byadagi Kaginele

102 Hanagal Hanagal

103 Haveri

104 Hirekerur Aabalur

105 Rannebennur



Sr. No




106 Savanur

107 Shiggaon Shiggaon, Shishunala,Bada

KODAGU

108

Madikeri Madikeri, Abbey Falls, Talacauvery, Nalkanadu Palace, Bhagamandala, Omkareshwara temple, Kakkabbe Shri Iguthappa

A B C E

109 Somwarpet Cauvery Nisargadhama, Harangi Dam, Kudige, Chattahalli Farm, Nisargadhama

A B C E

110 Virajpet Nagarahole National Park, Irurpu, Kundada Betta

A B C E

KOLAR

111 Bangarapet Kotillinga, Kammasandra, Kurudumandale, K.G.F., Bethamangala

112 Kolar Antaragange

113 Malur Avani, Bangara Tirupathi

114 Mulbagal Mulbagal, Budikote

115 Srinivasapura

KOPPAL

116 Gangavathi Anegundi, Kanakagiri

117 Koppal Koppal, Hulligemma Temple, Gavi Matha

118 Kushtagi

119 Yelburga Ittigi, Kuknur

MANDYA

120 Krishnarajpet Daria Daulath, Hosaholalu, Kikkeri, Hemagiri Falls, Basaralu

121 Maddur Kokkarebellur



Sr. No




122 Malavalli Shivanasamudra

123 Mandya Hanumanthanagara Eco Park, Gaanadalu, Hosabudanur

124 Nagamangala Adhichunchanagiri

125 Pandavapura Melkote, Thonnurkere

126 Srirangapattna Srirangapatna, Nimishamba Temple, Brindavan Gardens, Ranganathittu, Hulikere, Krishnarajasagara dam

MYSORE

127 H.D.Kote Kharapura

128 Hunsur Gomatagiri

129 K.R. Nagar

130 Mysore Mysore, Mysore Palace & Art Gallery, Chamundi Hills, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens

131 Nanjanagud Nanjanagud, Suthoor Matha, Sri Kanteshwara Temple

A C D E

132 Periyapatna Bilakuppe Golden Temple A B D E

133 T Narasipur Talakad, Somanathapur, Gargeshwari A C D E

RAICHUR

134 Devdurga Gabbur E

135 Lingasugar Hatti, Mudagal Maski E

136 Manavi Manvi, Kallur E

137 Raichur Raichur, Naradagudda, Malliabad E

138 Sindanur Ambadevi Matt E

RAMANAGARA

139 Chennapatna Chennapatna, Doddamalur E



Sr. No




140 Kanakapura Mekedatu (Sangama), Kabbalam Temple

E

141 Magadi Savandurga, Thippagondanahalli,Kootagallu, Magadi

E

142 Ramanagara Ramanagara, Kanva, Revana Siddeshwara Hills,

E

SHIMOGA

143 Bhadravati Bhadravathi, Bhadra Dam, E

144 Hosanagara Nagara, Humcha, Kodachadri E

145 Sagara Ikkeri, Jog Falls, Varadamoola, Keladi E

146 Shikaripura Thogarsi, Uduthadi, Ballegavi E

147 Shimoga Thyaverekopa Lion safari, Sakrebylu Elephant Camp, Gajnuru Dam, Kudli, Gajanur

E

148 Soraba Chandragutti, Soraba, Gudvi Bird Sanctuary

E

149 Thirthahalli Thirthahalli, Kuppali Kuvempu Museum, Kavaledurga, Augumbe, Manda Gadde Bird Sanctuary, Kundadri, Maricha Mrugavade, Ambutheertha

E

TUMKUR

150 Chikkanaya‐kanahalli

Theertha Ramalingeshwara Swamy ‐ Vajra, Handanakere

E

151 Gubbi Gubbi E

152 Koratagere Goravanahalli Laxmi, Koratagere, Siddara Betta, Theeta Reservoir

E

153 Kunigal Yediyur, Yediyuru Siddalingeshwara Temple, Markonahalli

E

154 Madhugiri Nidagal



Sr. No




155 Pavagada Pavagada

156 Sira Sira

157 Tiptur Araluguppa

158 Tumkur Siddaganga, Kaidal, Devarayana Durga

159 Turuvekere Turuvekere

UDUPI

160 Karkala Karkala, Karkala Jaina Basadi, Someshwara Beach

161 Kundapura Kundapura, Maravanthe, Kollur, Annejari

162 Udupi Udupi, Malpe, St. Mary’s Island, Kapu Kudlu Thirtha, Sri Krishna Temple

UTTARA KANNADA

163 Ankola Ankola

164 Bhatkal Murudeshwara, Bhatkal

165 Haliyal Haliyal, Dandeli, Dandeli Wild Life Sanctuary, Ambika Nagara Power Station

166 Honnavar Basavaraj Durga, Idugunji, Kasarkod Beach

167 Joida(Supa) Ulavi, Ramanagar, Castle Rocks

168 Karwar Karwar, Kurmgad, Anjadev Island, Devagad

169 Kumta Gokarna, Yana, Dhareswara, Om Beach, Rabindranath Tagore & Deva Bagha Beach

170 Mundagod Ativari Bird Sanctuary

171 Siddapur Siddapura, Uncholi Falls

172 Sirsi Sirsi, Sonda, Banavasi



Sr. No




173 Yellapur Yellapur, Sathodi and Magodu Falls, Lalguli Falls

YADGIR

174 Shapura Sleeping Buddha

175 Surpura Narayanapur Dam, Bonala Bird Sanctuary, Rajavenkatappa Nayaka Kote and Palace

176 Yadgir Yadgir Fort, Sannakere

Totals 39 40 38 54 5 43 46 87

Development of Bangalore Urban Areas

The areas within the BBMP and BDA limits will be considered as a low priority area with few tax benefits. The Government will extend support on the project specific basis and the extent of concessions will be decided by the Approving Authority.



Annexure 2: Proposed Incentives for development of

Tourism Infrastructure, Products and Services



Incentives are proposed for development of the following infrastructure and services:

1. Tourism Infrastructure and Products: Tourism Infrastructure and Products is divided into three groups: Tourism Infrastructure, Information Infrastructure and Tourism Products. Projects in tourism infrastructure such as Caravan Parks, Home stays, Wilderness and Eco-tourism parks, etc will come under Tourism Infrastructure. Projects in Information Infrastructure which relate to development of information centres, kiosks and interpretation centres will also be eligible for incentives. Lastly tourism products such as Heritage trails, festivals, fairs, etc. will also be covered under this head as Tourism Products.

2. Tourism Equipment: Incentives will be given on equipment purchased for certain tourism projects such as adventure tourism, caravan parks, rural tourism, wilderness and eco-tourism, and Healthcare. Entities developing projects in these specific areas will be eligible for both project based incentives under "Tourism Infrastructure and Products" as well as for the related equipment purchases. For eg. a project for developing eco-tourism will be eligible for a project based incentive (construction of lodges, restaurants, forest cottages, etc.) and for equipment incentives (safari vehicles, rock climbing equipment, binoculars, etc.)

3. Other Infrastructure: Incentives will be provided for complementary infrastructure that will improve the quality of tourism in the state. Infrastructure such as pay and use toilets, signage, internet services, etc at tourist destinations will be covered under this head.

4. Training & Human Resource Development: Incentives will be given for Training & HRD infrastructure. This incentive will be given to entities developing vocational training centres / institutes. Incentives will also be provided to entities developing course material, workshops, vocational courses and curriculum relevant to the tourism sector.

5. Media and Publicity: Print and electronic media such as websites, coffee table books, etc. are eligible for incentives.

All talukas in the state are classified into five categories based on the Dr. Nanjundappa Committee Report - "Report of the High Power Committee for Redressal of Regional Imbalances in Karnataka", 2002. Projects / activities falling in talukas which are classified as Category A (most backward) will be given highest incentives and priority. Further, in order to provide impetus to locations where tourist footfalls are low all talukas have been grouped into three groups- "Low " ,"Medium " and "High" based on annual tourist inflow for the year 2012. Talukas falling under the "Low" group are those with low annual tourist inflow and will be given the highest incentives. Please refer to Annexure 1 to determine the Category and Group of the Taluka in which the project is to be developed. In Annexure 1 destinations have been identified for tourism in certain talukas and projects in these destinations will be given priority. Please also note that priority will be given to projects that are in backward areas and have presently low tourist inflow at the discretion of the Government. Priority for developing projects in tourism will be given to Community Based Organisations such as NGOs, Self Help Groups, Trusts, Non Profit Organisations and Associations with the aim to bring in local involvement and knowledge base. Corporates that partner with community based organisations for projects will also be given priority in development activities.



To determine the eligible incentives identify the Category and Group (Annexure 1) of the taluk under which the project will be developed. For example if an Eco-tourism project is in Bhalki Taluk, Bidar it is under Category A under "Low" Group and can avail an incentive of 45% on total project cost (TPC) excluding land subjected to a maximum of Rs.45 lakhs. Further, additional incentives are provided for women, backward sections of the society and local level institutions. Therefore, a women entrepreneur in this example will be eligible to avail an incentive of 53% on total project cost (TPC) excluding land subjected to a maximum of Rs. 53 Lakhs. Since equipment for Eco- tourism is also eligible for incentives, the corresponding incentives in that category can also be availed.



Activity / Infrastructure identified for incentives

Tourist a

rrivals4 Incentives based on different categories of Locations /

tourism Destinations1 (Iloc) Additional incentives, based on profile of promoters/ developers/ entrepreneurs/ institutions (can be availed in addition to Iloc)

A B C D E SC ST Women Women SC/ ST

CBOs, NGOs, Foundations, SHG, Trusts, NPOs, Associations

1. Incentives fo

r tou

rism infrastructure and

Produ

cts

A. Infrastructure

• Heritage Hotels • Heritage Building, Museums. • Caravans/Caravan parks • Yatri Niwas and Dormitories • Home stays • Youth Hostels • Wayside Amenities • Wellness Centre • Theme Parks • Wilderness and eco‐tourism

Parks. • Rural tourism • Healthcare centre • Others‐> Forest Rest house,

cottages, lodge, nature camps, etc

High

Incentive will be calculated as a percentage of Total Project Cost (TPC) excluding land and subjected to a maximum amount

35 % of TPC (max. of Rs. 35 lakhs)





Iloc + 5 % of TPC and maximum increased by Rs. 5 lakhs





Med

ium 40 % of

TPC (max. of Rs. 40 lakhs)


30 % of TPC (max. of Rs. 30lakhs)



Low






B. Inform

ation Infrastructure

• Information Center • Kiosks • Interpretation Center

High












Med

ium






4 Refer to Annexure 1 to determine the category and tourist arrival profile (High, Medium, Low ).




Tourist a





Low






C. Tou

rism Produ

cts

• Trails – Nature, heritage, Experiential tour in rural tourism

• Concerts, theatre, Festival, Fairs

• Light and Sound Shows

High

Upto to a limit of Rs.15 lakhs

Upto to a limit of Rs. 10 lakhs


Upto to a limit of Rs. 5 lakhs


Limit increased by Rs. 2 lakhs





Med

ium






Low









Tourist a





2. Equ

ipmen

t

• Adventure tourism • Wilderness and eco tourism. • Rural tourism • Healthcare • Safari vehicles and boats.

High

Incentive will be calculated as a percentage of Equipment Cost and subjected to a maximum amount.

35 % of Equipment Cost (max. of Rs. 35 lakhs)





Iloc + 5 % of Equipment Cost and maximum increased by Rs. 5 lakhs





Med

ium

40 % of Equipment Cost (max .of Rs. 40 lakhs)


30 % of Equipment Cost (max. of Rs. 30lakhs)



Low






3. Other

Infrastructure

• Signage • Cell phone charging points • Pay and use toilets • Drinking water points • Internet Services H

igh

Incentive will be calculated as a percentage of Asset Cost excluding land and subjected to a maximum amount.

35 % of Asset Cost (max. of Rs. 35 lakhs)





Iloc + 5 % of Asset Cost and maximum increased by Rs. 5 lakhs








Tourist a





Med

ium

40 % of Asset Cost (max .of Rs. 40 lakhs)


30 % of Asset Cost (max. of Rs. 30lakhs)



Low






4. Training and

HRD

A. Infrastructure creation in

Training

and

HRD

• Setting up Vocational Training Institute.

*The Institute must provide training and imparting skills in areas such as training guides, culinary skills, hotel management, tourism facilitate management, etc.

High












Med

ium









Tourist a





Low






B. Curric

ulum

/ Training Materials /

Worksho

ps

• Developing vocational courses

• Preparation of vocational based course material

• Conducting trainings and Workshops

*Must provide training and imparting skills in areas such as guides, culinary skills, hotel management, tourism facilitate management, etc.

Upto to a limit of Rs.25 lakhs Limit increased by Rs. 2 lakhs





5. M

edia and

Pu

blicity

A. Prin

t Med

ia

• Tourist Maps and Guides • Coffee Table books • Brochures and Pamphlets









Tourist a





B. Electronic Med

ia • Documentaries

• Travel shows • Audio Guides • Blogs and Website








GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF VARIOUS

TOURISM RELATED INFRASTRUCTURE AND

SERVICES (Please note that the guidelines are only indicative in nature and set out the minimum requirements. Consent of Approving Authority(s) is essential for availing incentives and concessions under the Policy)



Table of Contents

1) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF HOMESTAYS IN KARNATAKA ........................................... 42 2) GUIDELINES FOR RURAL TOURISM ............................................................................................................ 61 3) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION OF CARAVAN TOURISM ..................... 63 4) GUIDELINES FOR RE-USE OF HERITAGE BUILDINGS IN KARNATAKA ......................................... 69 5) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING HEALTH-CARE TOURISM ................................................................ 71 6) GUIDELINES FOR ECO TOURISM ................................................................................................................. 74 7) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING ADVENTURE TOURISM & RELATED ACTIVITIES IN

KARNATAKA ........................................................................................................................................................ 78 8) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING THEME PARKS ...................................................................................... 90 9) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING WAYSIDE AMENITIES ........................................................................ 93 10) GUIDELINES FOR YATRI NIWAS AND DORMITORIES ......................................................................... 98 11) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF YOUTH HOSTELS .................................................................. 101 12) GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING INTERPRETATION CENTRES, TOURIST INFORMATION

CENTRE AND KIOSKS .................................................................................................................................... 104 13) GUIDELINES FOR MEDIA, COMMUNICATION AND PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES ................. 109 14) GUIDELINES FOR EVENT BASED TOURISM ............................................................................................ 111 15) GUIDELINES FOR HERITAGE TRAILS AND NATURE TRAILS ........................................................... 117



1) Guidelines for development of Homestays in Karnataka

a. Introduction

Tourism is currently the largest and fastest growing industry in the world. The industry has emerged as one of the leading sectors that have enhanced the contribution to Karnataka’s economy. Karnataka has been witnessing a tremendous influx of international and domestic tourists that has added to foreign exchange earnings. Therefore, increased demand for accommodations coupled with need for elevated authentic experience has led to the concept of Homestay gaining importance.

The Department of Tourism (DoT), Government of Karnataka (GoK) had introduced a new scheme for Homestays called ‘Athithi’ to supplement the demand of accommodations at various tourist destinations in the State of Karnataka. These Homestays provide standard facilities with minimal investment and encourage the locals to earn an extra income. Since then DoT has been making a sustained effort to promote the concept of Homestays under the brand name “Athithi” in various tourist destinations in districts such as Kodagu, Chikkmanglur, Uttar Karnataka, Hassan, Mysore, Udupi etc. They have also published information in this regard to the tourists through their Website. Under the Scheme the Homestays are minimally regulated and treated as a non-commercial activity.

The guidelines set out herein provide a clear procedure for registration/classification/re-classification of the Homestays, mandatory facilities required in a Homestay, incentives available to the Homestay owners etc.

b. Eligibility

Eligible applicants are required to fulfil the following conditions to submit applications for the purpose of registration of Homestays: i. The owner or promoter of the Homestay unit should be the owner of the property

where the Homestay is functioning/ proposed to function. ii. The owner or promoter of the Homestay unit should be physically residing with

his/her family in the same Homestay unit or within the premises/campus in close proximity. Individuals or families who own a house of good quality located within the state and can make available, a maximum of 5 (five) rooms with toilet facilities exclusively for tourist accommodation, and who agree to provide basic minimum infrastructure standards and assured quality in service.

iii. A Police Clearance certificate has been obtained from Local Station House Officer. iv. At least one of the family members residing in Homestay units should be able to

communicate in English.



v. The minimum floor area of each room in the Homestay should be atleast 120 sq ft for double bedroom and atleast 100 sq ft for single bedroom.

vi. The minimum size of each bathroom in the Homestay should be 30 sq ft. vii. There should be an easy access from the road by a foothpath/mule track to the

Homestay and should be in good condition. viii. Residents should not carry out any commercial activity of tours and travel, sight-

seeing, transport, handicrafts or any other similar activity in or from the Homestay unit.

ix. The proposed Homestay is not registered as a Hotel or commercial establishment; and not enjoying any benefits under any of the State or Central Policy/Act/ Guidelines.

c. Minimum Requirements Application for Registration of Homestay Units

i. Any Homestay owner who fulfils the above eligibility conditions may submit an

application for registration, to the Director, Department of Tourism, specifying the category applied for, in a prescribed format (Annex A) along with the application fee, registration fees and the documents specified in Clause 5.

The application fee and the registration fee payable for Gold Guest Class and

Silver Guest Class category are provided in the table below:

Category of Classification

Application Fee (in Rs.)

Registration Fee (in Rs)

For Gold Guest Class 3000 15000

For Silver Guest Class 2000 10000

ii. The application fee and registration fee should be paid separately by the applicant in the form of a Demand Draft (DD) in favour of Commissioner, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, drawn on any nationalised bank or scheduled bank , payable at Bangalore. The application fee is not refundable in case the Application for Registration is rejected.

iii. On receipt of application in the prescribed format along with the prescribed fees, DoT shall provide an acknowledgement of having received the same, to the applicant.

iv. In case the application for registration is rejected, the application fee shall not be refunded. However, the registration fee paid by the Homestay owner shall be refunded by DoT within 30 days from the date of rejection of application for registration.

v. The Regional Classification Committee may recommend registering a Homestay under Gold Guest Class or Silver Guest Class. In case the Homestay Owner has applied for a Silver Guest Class, but the Regional Classification Committee



recommends a Gold Guest Class to be provided, the applicant is required to pay the registration fee applicable for such Gold Guest Class. Only upon payment of registration fee applicable for Gold Guest Class, the said Homestay shall be registered under Gold Guest Class.

Documents to be submitted along with the application (in duplicate)

i. Prescribed application form duly filled in. ii. Demand Draft (DD) for application fee and registration fee. iii. Proof of ownership/lease of the building (Affidavit in case of co-sharer of

house/land). iv. Location plan showing access to the building from the major roads (need not be

to scale). v. Plan and elevation of the existing building. vi. Plan and elevation of the building incorporating the proposed alteration, if

required, certified by a qualified engineer. vii. One hard copy and one soft copy of the photographs of the building, including

interiors, showing types of facilities available, bathroom, living room, bedroom, parking etc.

viii. Police clearance certificate from Local Station House Officer. ix. Check list details as per Annex B (enclose a copy of the checklist duly certified

that the facilities are available in the Homestay unit). x. Certified Building Plans from the local body. xi. If approval earlier, a copy of the earlier Certificate of Registration issued by the

Department of Tourism.

Registration/ Classification/Reclassification Procedure

i. Homestay units shall be registered as per these guidelines and classified as per the prescribed classification criteria.

ii. Once the Homestay unit applies for registration/classification/re-classification, it has to be ready for inspection by the private agency appointed by DoT or prescribed Authority appointed by Government or Regional Classification Committee constituted by the State Government for the purpose. No requests for deferment of inspection shall be entertained.

iii. Upon receipt of applications, DoT shall, through a private agency/prescribed

authority appointed/ Regional Classification Committee, undertake physical verification of Homestay unit and evaluate the surrounding environment, hygiene, cleanliness, safety and security provided to the tourist, presence of facilities and services as per the checklist provided in Annex B. If found satisfactory with the facilities, the authority shall recommend to DoT for the classification of the Homestay unit, taking into consideration the marking criteria provided at Annex



C. The checklist should be duly filled in and signed on all pages and submitted to DoT with the application.

iv. The Regional Classification Committee will consist of the following: • Principal Secretary (Tourism) State Government • Regional Director, India Tourism • Representatives from IATO • Representatives from TAAI • Local India Tourism Office • Representative from State Tourism Department • Commissioner of Police / Superintendent of Police of the District or his representatives.

Note: In case the Principal Secretary is unable to chair the committee, the Regional

Director, India Tourism, will chair the Classification Committee. The Chairman and any two

members will constitute a quorum. The recommendation of the Committee will be approved by

the Chairman.

v. Based on the observations made by the private agency and the recommendations of the prescribed Authority/ Regional Classification Committee, the Homestay unit will be certified under the prescribed classification norm and registered by DoT.

vi. Homestay units fulfilling all the essential conditions prescribed under these guidelines and meeting the required criteria in the checklist of facilities and quality of the accommodation provided, belonging to the Class A category, will be given the Gold Guest Class status and Class B category will be awarded the Silver Guest Class status.

vii. All cases of classification would be finalised within 30 days of the application being made to the Director, Department of Tourism, complete in all respect.

viii. The member of Homestay units should undergo the training programme conducted by DoT or service providers as prescribed by the Tourism Department, after registration of their Homestays within the time prescribed by DoT. Failure to attend the training programme would lead to cancellation of the Certificate of Registration. .

ix. Once the Certificate of Registration is obtained from DoT, the applicant is required to register the Homestay unit r with the Panchayat.

Expiry of Certificate of Registration and Classification



i. Registration and Classification shall be valid for a period of 3 (three) years from the date of issue of orders of registration or in case of reclassification, from the date of expiry of the last classification, provided that an application has been received at least 3 months before the expiry of the last classification.

ii. On expiry of 3 (years) from the date of issue of orders of registration, or in case of reclassification from the date of expiry of the last classification, the registration of the Homestay Units should be renewed on payment of renewal fee as provided in the table below, within 15 days of expiry:

Category of Classification Renewal Fee (in Rs) Gold Guest Class 15000

Silver Guest Class 10000

iii. The renewal fee shall be payable by the applicant in the form of a Demand Draft (DD) in favour of Commissioner, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, drawn on any nationalised bank or scheduled bank and payable at Bangalore.

iv. In case the applicant has failed to pay the prescribed renewal fee within the specified time, DoT shall have the right to take any action including cancellation of the registration/classification and take legal action against the Homestay owner.

Refusal and Cancellation of Registration

DoT may, by an order in writing:

i. Refuse registration of a Homestay unit, if the applicant is convicted of any offence under any law providing for prevention of hoarding, smuggling, profiteering, or any adulteration of food or drug, under Chapter XIII and XIV of the Indian Penal Code,1860 or

ii. Remove the name of a Homestay unit from the register and cancel the

Certificate of Registration, on any of the following grounds, namely: • if the Homestay unit ceases to cater to the tourists; • if the Applicant is convicted of any offence punishable under the relevant

sections of the Indian Penal Code,1860 or under any law providing for the prevention of hoarding, smuggling, profiteering or adulteration of food and drugs,r corruption or

• if the owner or the Homestay unit under question is blacklisted by DoT;



• In case of overcharging, unhygienic conditions, misbehavior, malpractices and failure to maintain required standards.

• If the applicant has failed to pay the renewal fee within the prescribed time limit.

• If the applicant fails to undergo the training programme organised by DoT. • Indulge or allow any such activity that adversely affects the privacy and

rights of the neighbors and residents of the locality.

No application for registration shall be refused or certificate of registration be cancelled, unless the person applying for registration and the person whose certificate of registration is to be cancelled, has been afforded a reasonable opportunity of being heard.

After the cancellation of certificates of registration, DoT shall direct forthwith, the removal of such unit from the register. Further, DoT may, through written orders, blacklist such Homestay unit. The particulars of such blacklisted Homestay unit shall be notified to all travel, trade and concerned organizations.

General Terms and Conditions for Approval and Registration/Classification of Homestay Unit

i. All applications for the classification or reclassification must be complete in all respects including application form, application fee, prescribed clearances, NOCs, certificates, etc. The incomplete application is liable to be rejected.

ii. In case of dissatisfaction with the decision on the classification, the unit may

appeal to the Commissioner of Tourism, GoK, within 30 days of receiving the communication regarding classification / reclassification. The decision of the Commissioner of Tourism, GoK, shall be final and binding.

iii. If any dispute arises between the house owner and the tourists, the matter will

be brought to the notice of the Commissioner of Tourism, GoK for resolution. The decision of Commissioner of Tourism, GoK, shall be final and binding.

iv. The classified Homestay units are expected to maintain required standards at all

times. The Regional Classification Committee could inspect the same, at any time, without previous notice. Any serious deficiencies will be reported to DoT, and DoT is free to take any action including cancellation of the classification.

v. Any deficiencies/rectification pointed out by the Regional Classification

Committee will have to be complied within the stipulated time, which will be allotted in consultation with the representatives of the establishment during inspection. Failure to do so, will result in rejection of the application.



vi. Any changes in the facilities of the unit shall be reported to the concerned Assistant Director of Tourism, within 30 days. If any such violation comes to the notice of the Regional Classification Committee, then the classification will stand withdrawn/ terminated.

vii. If the owner wishes to cancel the registration of the Homestay unit, he/she may

apply to the DoT on a simple paper. viii. All the classified units shall submit Form C (registration book as maintained in

hotels) with passport details to the police station, as is done by the hotels, while accommodating foreign nationals.

ix. The owner shall maintain a register for letting out the rooms to the tourists,

which can be inspected by the concerned District Level Tourism Officer. The register will have the same format as those presently being used in the Hotels/ Guest Houses.

x. The owner shall maintain a bill book/ Homestay stamp pad for issuing the bills to

the tourists. xi. Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, reserves the right to modify

the guidelines/terms and conditions from time to time, for the betterment and well-being of the industry.

Code of Conduct of Homestay Owners

DoT has framed certain guiding principles that should be followed by the Homestay Owners. These are illustrated as a Code of Conduct and would include the following: i. The owners of registered Homestay unit shall not use the land for any other

commercial purpose and shall not alienate the land other than for the purpose for which it is being used at present.

ii. Every Homestay unit shall follow the prescribed guidelines in this regard,

maintain the basic infrastructure and quality standards, as per the selected classification criteria, and adhere to the code.

iii. The owner of Homestay shall charge the rates approved by the DoT at the time

of booking, from the tourists. Rates shall be revised once in two years, by the Regional Classification Committee, on application by the owner.

iv. Every Homestaty shall accurately describe the facilities provided in their

establishment and the rates quoted for usage of the facilities, to the guests. Receipts are to be provided wherever required.



v. To allow guests to see the accommodation on arrival, prior to payment vi. To adhere to the payment terms agreed upon at the time of booking vii. To deal promptly and courteously with all enquiries, requests, reservations,

correspondence and complaints from guests. viii. Maintain the Homestay unit in a good state of repair and cleanliness and fit for

habitation of guests at all times, and comply with any rules respecting standards of health, hygiene and safety, including fire safety.

ix. Maintain detailed particulars of guests in a register/or computerized record in

electronic form and provide fortnightly information of the guests to the municipal body concerned, and the police.

x. Every registered Homestay unit shall maintain the following books and register,

approved by DoT/Regional Classification Committee and upon demand/request by the DoT/Prescribed Authority/ Regional Classification Committee, shall produce the following records namely:

• Complaint/suggestion book kept at the reception/lobby/living room of

Homestay. • Guest/tourist visitor register. • Bill book duly numbered in triplicate. • Receipt book duly numbered in duplicate for receipt of payments/advance.

xi. The Homestay unit owner/family shall not allow entry of guest/tourist to the

rooms unless his particulars are entered in the guest register.

Booking Procedures

i. Upon registration with DoT, the Homestay owners may advertise their Homestay on their website for booking. It is the responsibility of the Homestay owners to take the guests’ contact details, confirmed arrival and departure times etc.

ii. Once the booking has been accepted, not more than 20% of the total fee may be

charged from the tourists as advance payment. Request for payment in full, prior to arrival, is not allowed. Upon receipt of advance deposit, written acknowledgement should be provided to the tourists. Guests should be allowed to inspect the accommodation prior to making payment. .



iii. Any deposit must be refunded if the booking is cancelled atleast 3 weeks in advance, from the arrival date.

Display of information and documents to be maintained by the Homestay

Owners

Every registered Homestay unit should display, at a conspicuous place, in respect of his Homestay, at the entrance of the Homestay or at the reception counter, on a notice board (with a minimum size of 3’-4’) the following information, duly painted:

1. Name of the Homestay______________________________ 2. Signed registration and classification certificates issued by DoT 3. Certificate of Training programme undergone 4. Total accommodation in the Homestay with details with the following details:

o No of single room________________________. o No of double room_______________________. o Rooms occupied_______________________. o Rooms reserved______________________________. o Rooms available______________________________.

5. Rate list of each room as approved by prescribed Authority. 6. Check out time 7. Rate list of eatables to be displayed on a separate notice board and or menu. 8. Kitchen/Dining closing time to be displayed.

Monitoring and Evaluation of Homestays

i. There shall be an independent panel to monitor and evaluate the Homevstay units in the State, This would ensure consistent efforts to provide assured service standards. This shall be done by a Monitoring Committee which shall be duly notified by the Department, so that assured minimum standards are continued to be maintained in these Homestay units.

ii. The panel shall be drawn from various stakeholders and expert agencies involved in tourism and ecotourism fields.

d. Incentives and Concessions

Please refer to Section 5 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and Applying for Incentives. Only Homestay units duly registered with the Tourism Department would be eligible for the following incentives: i. Use of Karnataka Tourism Brand for marketing. ii. Exemption from Luxury and Sales Tax/VAT. iii. Payment of electricity and water charges at domestic rates.



iv. Exemption from payment of land conversion charges to the Town & Country Planning Department.

v. The rate of property tax will be those prescribed by the appropriate authorities for residential purposes.

vi. Government would facilitate in getting loans from the financial institutions for the improvement of the existing houses for it’s conversion into Homestay.

vii. DoT would arrange continuous training programmes for the Homestay owners in essential areas including staff proficiency, food handling, safety and hygiene.

viii. DoT shall publish on its web site, free of charge, the list of all approved Homestay units and shall also print a brochure of the registered Homestay units and make it available in its tourism kiosks/ centres.

ix. Other incentives as applicable under Annexure 2 of this policy.



ANNEX A- APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION

1. Name of the Homestay unit, if any: 2. Category applied for: 3. Name of the owner/promoter

(with a note on their background)

4. Father’s Name 5. Age 6. Postal address 7. Contact Number

(tel. No., Fax, email)

8. Location of the Homestay along with full address : (location plan to be included)

9. Details of family members who are staying at the unit

Sl.No. Name Relationship with the applicant

Educational Qualifications

Occupation

1. 2. 3. 4.

10. Date on which the Homestay became operational:

11. Details of the building a. Building No./Ward No. of local body : b. Name of the local body: c. Name of the Gramme Sabha/Panchayat, Block, Tehsil, District d. Plinth area (floor-wise):

(plan, elevation & photographs of the building to be enclosed) e. Location Plan showing access to the Homestay from the main approach road f. Proof of ownership of the house/property g. Accredition if any:

12. Details of location

a. Area of the plot: b. Survey number : c. Ward No.: d. Village, Taluk and District: a. Distance from nearest town (w.r.t. village): b. Distance from nearest railway station (w.r.t. village): c. Distance from nearest airport (w.r.t. village):

Passport size photo to be affixed



d. Distance from nearest bus stand e. Distance from nearest shopping center f. Distance from nearest Hospital/Dispensary

13. Nearest tourist spot (please describe the tourist attractions nearby):

14. Details of facilities a. Number of bed rooms offered to tourists

Sl.No. Room size (in sq ft)

Number of bathrooms/Toil

ets available

Facilities in each room

Additional facility – if any

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

b. Kitchen facilities (Yes/No) : c. Dining / lobby (Yes/No.) : d. Other facilities (Please specify - Attach separate sheet if necessary):

15. Registration No.

(If approved earlier, attach a copy of the earlier Certificate of Registration issued by DoT)

16. Whether clearance is obtained from the Police Authorities regarding the antecedents of

the Owner/ owners and the proposed activity (Yes/No) (copy to be enclosed)

17. Application fee and Registration Fee details: Category Classification Classification/

Reclassification Fee (in Rs.) Details of DD

Category A Gold Guest Class

Category B Silver Guest Class

DD should be drawn in favour of Commissioner, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, drawn on any nationalised bank or scheduled bank and payable at Bangalore. The application fee is not refundable in case of rejection or classification or considering for classification in lower classes. Please enclose DD along with the application.



18. Copy of the documents enclosed along with the Application

Sl.No. Documents enclosed

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

19. Eco –friendly facilities undertaken in the Homestay units: 20. Undertaking:

I have read and understood all the terms and conditions mentioned in the Homestay policy also with respect to the approval and registration of the Homestay units and hereby agree to abide by them. I further confirm that I shall abide by the same and such other conditions as may be laid down time to time by the Department of Tourism for the Homestay Certification. The information and documents provided are correct and authentic to the best of my knowledge and belief. Signature: Place: Date: Note: 1. Submit the application form along with the Demand Drafts and relevant documents to

DoT. 2. After inspection DoT will register the Homestay as per the classification norm and if

applied the owner has to submit the deference of fee as per the classification criteria.



ANNEX B- CHECKLIST FOR APPROVAL OF HOMESTAYS

1. Front Sitting Area/Lobby a. Adequate ventilation and natural or artificial lighting b. Adequate, good quality furniture and in good condition. c. Clean, spacious, and well maintained lobby / front sitting area.

2. Bed Rooms

a. Minimum two lettable room & maximum 5 rooms (10 beds) with attached bathrooms. All rooms should be clean, airy, pest free, without dampness and with good ventilation.

b. Minimum size of a single bed room should not be less than 100 sqft and the minimum size of the double bedroom should not be less than 120 sqft.

c. Well maintained and well equipped with quality carpets/area rugs/tiles or marble flooring, furniture etc. in keeping with the traditional lifestyle.

d. Clean, comfortable beds with rubberized or cotton mattresses or foam rubber pillows and good quality linen.

e. Width of the single bed should not be less than 3 ft and width of the double bed should not be less than 4.6 ft.

f. Serviceable and safe locks with keys on each door leading out of the bed room. g. Windows suitably curtained or fitted with blinds or equivalent. h. If air conditioning is not provided all bed rooms should have electric fans. i. Internal telephone or call bell system for the convenience of guest. j. A dressing table with mirror, ward robe or wall cupboard and/or cloth hangers must be

available. k. Fresh linen should be provided and bed linen should be changed at least once in 02 days. l. An iron and an ironing board should be made available on request. m. Air conditioning /heating depending on climatic conditions with room temperature

between 20 to 25 degree centigrade. n. A 15 amp earthed power socket in the guest room. o. Wardrobe with at least 4 cloth hangers in the guest room p. Shelves or drawer space in the guest rooms q. Complimentary aqua guard/RO/Mineral water r. Name, address and telephone numbers of doctors s. Safe keeping facilities

3. Bathrooms

a. The size of each bathroom should not be less than 30 sqft. b. Western WC toilet to have a seat and lid, toilet paper c. Every toilet should be in a good working condition. d. Every bath room should have over-head showers in good working condition. e. Bathroom floors should be clean, and of non-skid impervious materials. f. Bath room walls should be preferably tiled up to 5ft in height or plastered with smooth

cement. g. Bathrooms should have wash basin, mirror, towel rail, cloth hooks etc.



h. Good quality, absorbent towels should be provided. i. 24 hours running hot and cold water with water saving taps/shower with proper sewage

connections

4. Dining Area a. Clean, well maintained separate dining area with good quality comfortable tables and

chairs. b. Adequate stock of good quality cutlery, crockery, tableware and table linen.

5. Kitchen a. Well maintained smoke free, clean, hygienic, odour free, pest free kitchen and well

ventilated kitchen. b. Adequate food storage facilities. c. An exhaust fan to remove hot air and other odours from the kitchen. d. A fire extinguisher or fire blanket should be available in the kitchen. e. All drainage in and around the kitchen should be clean, kept covered and lead to a

soakage pit.

6. Windows and ventilation: a. Every bedroom should have at least one opening window with clear glass to provide

natural light and adequate ventilation. Rooms without windows are not acceptable. If windows are sealed, an approved ventilation system should be provided.

b. Windows should be well fitted, easy to open and shut, and remain open.

7. General a. Guest register with names, addresses, passport number, with dates of arrival/departure

etc for references to be maintained. b. List on display of food items/ type of meals available and the charges that apply. c. First aid facilities should be available. d. Adequate fire precaution and fire fighting equipments in good working order to ensure

safety of guests. e. Garbage should be stored in covered bins until it is disposed as per municipal laws. f. Adequate parking facilities for vehicles. g. Homestay unit to be covered by an insurance policy including public liability, against any

liability claim by guests. h. Smoke/heat detectors in the house



ANNEX C - SCORING CRITERIA

Sl No

Components

Maximum Marks

Marking Criteria Marks obtained

Details & Status

1. Location 12 • Located at > 4 tourists attractions = 8 marks

• Located at >2 but < 4 tourists attractions = 6 marks

• Located at 1 to 2 tourists attractions = 4 marks

• Located at scenic place = 2 marks

• Located at farm/estate = 2 marks

Mention the tourists

destinations, distance from the Homestay and type of Homestay

2. Exterior 10 • Exterior environment = 4 marks basis Cleanliness = 2 marks Greenery = 2 marks

• Approach = 1 mark • Landscape = 2 marks • Exterior lighting = 2

marks • Parking = 1 mark

Mention the number of parking space allocated for car/bus/two wheeler etc and the overall cleanliness and status

3. Type of Building

8 • Heritage building, Farm houses, Estate bungalow = 8 marks

• New construction in traditional architecture = 6 marks

• Normal RCC structure = 4 marks

• Old tiled houses without much heritage value = 4 marks

Mention the type of building, its status, age of the building etc

4. Guest Rooms 12 • Furniture = 6 marks basis • Good quality chairs, table

and other necessary furniture = 3 marks

• Wardrobes with aleast 4 hangers = 3 marks

• Furnishing = 2 marks basis

Mention the number of chairs, tables, the quality of mattress, thickness of the bed, and its status, the



Sl No

Components

Maximum Marks


Details & Status

Comfortable bed = 1 marks Comfortable bed with good quality linen & bedding = 2 marks

• Décor = 2 marks • Room facilities and

amenities = 2 marks (such as proper ventilation and lightings etc)

overall cleanliness etc

5. Bathroom 08 • Facilities (such as 24/7 running water hot/cold running water) = 2 marks

• Facilities (such as only cold running water) = 1 mark

• Good Fittings = 1 mark • Clean Linen = 1 mark • Toiletries = 2 marks

Mention the exact size of the bathroom, status of the bathroom such as necessary toiletries, buckets, water, soaps etc are made available to the guests etc

6. Public Areas 04 • Antique & good Furniture’s such as sofas and tables = 2 mark

• Good furniture’s such as sofa and tables = 1 mark

• Antique Décor = 2 marks • Good Décor = 1 marks

Mention in brief the number of furniture and the status and décor

7. Food 06 • Traditional cuisine = 2 marks

• Multiple choice of cuisine = 2 marks

• Fresh and good food quality = 2 marks

Mention the quality of food, the multiple choice of food made available to the tourists etc

8. Kitchen 06 • Cleanliness= 2 marks (Daily germicidal cleaning of floors & usage of Good quality cutlery and crockery)

In brief mention the quality of utensils, whether the



Sl No

Components

Maximum Marks


Details & Status

• State of repair = 2 marks • Proper storage of food =

2 marks (pest free and Clean)

kitchen is well maintained smoke free, clean, hygienic, odour free, pest free, methods adopted to keep the kitchen clean etc

9. Cleanliness 10 • Daily germicidal cleaning of floors = 2 marks

• Pest /Dust and odour free = 2 marks

• Washing machines/dryers in the house with arrangements for laundry/ dry cleaning services = 2 marks

• No seepage = 2 marks • No stagnant water or

sewerage in and around the Homestay = 2 marks

Mention in brief the method adopted to keep the Homestay clean, dust free etc and the status

10. Hygiene 10 • Garbage disposal facilities as per municipal laws = 3marks

• Proper Sewerage discharge = 3 marks

• Proper Drinking water facility = 4 marks

Mention the methods adopted towards hygiene and its status, repairs required etc

11. Safety & Security

04 • Public area smoke/heat detectors in the house = 1 mark

• Public area and room security = 1 mark

• Signage = 1 mark • Security guards facilities =

1 mark

Mention the status and number of security guards etc

12. Communications

02 • Phone Service= 1 mark • Internet access = 1 marks

Mention the status of these



Sl No

Components

Maximum Marks


Details & Status

facilities 13. Eco-friendly

practices 08 • Proper Waste

management = 2 marks • Proper recycling practices

= 1 mark • No plastic = 1 mark • Water conservation /

harvesting = 1 mark • Pollution control-

air/water/sound/light = 1 mark

• Alernative energy usage = 1 mark

Mention the type of Eco-friendly practices adopted and the status

Note: Class A-75 and above – Gold Guest Class Class B- 50- 74 – Silver Guest Class Not qualified- Less than 50



2) Guidelines for Rural Tourism

a. Introduction

Rural Tourism has been advocated to showcase the rural life, art, culture and heritage at rural locations, to benefit the local community, economically and socially. It also enables interaction between the tourists and the locals for a more enriching & rewarding tourism experience. Rural tourism is essentially an activity which takes place in the countryside. It is multi-faceted and may entail farm/agricultural tourism, cultural tourism, nature tourism, adventure tourism, and eco-tourism. Rural tourism has certain typical characteristics like; it is experience-oriented, the locations are sparsely populated, it is predominantly in natural environment, it meshes with seasonality and local events, and is based on preservation of culture, heritage and traditions. Government of Karnataka, (GoK), intends to promote village/rural tourism and spread its socio-economic benefits to rural and backward areas in the state. Rural areas provide many opportunities for the development of tourism, as an alternative means of income-generation. Land is inexpensive in comparison to urban areas; the environment is green and unpolluted; and buildings which previously served other purposes can easily be refurbished. Some of the potential benefits include generation of additional/ off-farm income, job creation, farm support, landscape conservation, services retention, support to rural arts and crafts, nature conservation, environmental improvements, and enhanced role of women.

Eligible applicants are required to fulfil the following conditions to submit applications for the purpose of development of Rural Tourism.

The following entities are eligible to avail incentives; • Any panchayat representing a village or;

• NGO, trust, self-help group or a group of individuals (community);

• an individual owning a farm (horticulture, sericulture, agriculture, wineyards of at least

5 acres)

which has the potential to offer experiential tourism. Incentives would be provided to the above for any facility set up/ activity/ equipment procured directly related to tourism.

b. Requirements

To deliver a unique experience to visitors, the special rural heritage of Karnataka’s countryside should be showcased in a special manner, without compromising on quality.



Delivering quality should focus on bringing out the special, distinctive features and flavours of the destination. Quality rural tourism depends on, and in turn supports many other activities such as agriculture, craft industries, transport and local services. Basic infrastructure such as access, water, sanitation, electricity etc., should be present at the site/ village. • The development should be small scale, integrating easily into the economic fabric of

the community. It should directly link small-scale agriculture, horticulture or

sericulture with the tourism experience.

• The following facilities should be available for visitors;

o Overnight accommodation with clean toilets/ bathrooms

o Traditional/ local cuisine (could be made available in the form of community

kitchens etc)

o Guides

o Souvenirs

• Activities to experience rural life/ central theme/ product at the village(s)

c. Incentives/ Concessions

To popularise Rural Tourism, DoT is offering special incentives/concessions, which are spelt-out in the following sections/clauses: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and applying

for availing Incentives for the tourism related projects and services.

• Annexure 1 for classification of towns/ cities in Karnataka for the purpose of availing

incentives.

• Annexure 2 for eligibility for availing incentives and concessions under this category.



3) Guidelines for Development and Promotion of Caravan Tourism

a. Introduction

The concept of caravan tourism has gained immense popularity across the globe, owing to the freedom and flexibility it provides while holidaying vis-a-vis itineraries and accommodation. Caravans are a unique tourism product, which promotes family-oriented tours even in circuits / destinations which are not having adequate hotel accommodation. One of the essential pre-requisites for Caravan tourism is the presence of Caravan Parks. A Caravan Park is a place where Caravans can stay overnight in allotted spaces providing basic or advanced amenities and facilities. The initial demand in this niche segment is expected to come from domestic tourists and then from the inbound tourists. There is at present a growing demand for eco, adventure, wildlife and pilgrimage tourism. This involves visiting and staying in remote areas, forests, deserts and riversides. There is already shortage of accommodation at tourist destinations, especially in remote areas and in certain cases at places where a permanent construction may neither be permissible nor feasible. In such a scenario, Caravan Tourism can effectively meet the growing demand, while ensuring adherence to quality, standards and safety norms. Caravan Tourism would attract a wide range of market segments including young people, families, senior citizens and international tourists. DoT is desirous of encouraging entities who are interested in developing caravan parks or promoting caravan tourism. The following guidelines provide details of minimum requirements/eligibility for those interested in entering the segment, and the incentives that DoT is offering for development of caravan tourism.

b. Eligibility

Any Company intending to develop a Caravan Park shall be eligible. Priority would be given to those entities already having experience in the tourism sector. DoT intends to develop Caravan Parks at various locations. These locations are segregated segment-wise as illustrated below: • Urban tourism - Bangalore, Mysore, Coorg circuit and Belur-Halebeedu, Srirangapatna

as options in the Southern area. Entry/Exit points will be Bangalore, Mangalore,

Wayanad, Ooty.

• Heritage Tourism: Hampi, Badami+Aihole+Pattadakal, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Bidar.



Entry/Exit points will be Bangalore, Goa, Hyderabad, Hubli.

• Eco Tourism: Shimoga, Uttar Kannada, Chickkamagalur, Hassan and Kodagu.

• Wilderness Tourism: Nagarhole, Bandipur, BRT, Kavery, Bannerghatta

• Spiritual Tourism: Mookambika, Udupi, Dharmasthala, Karkala, Muradeshwar,

Gokarna, Shravanabelagola, Gulbarga+Bijapur+Bidar+Ramnagar.

• Coastal Tourism: Mangalore, Udupi, Kundapur, Muradeshwar, Karwar & Gokarna

c. Other Requirements

DoT has emphasized on certain specific requirements for setting up caravan parks. These specifications are highlighted below: i. Site Development

• Land requirement: Minimum land required would be 2 acres with a minimum of

15 parking bays and a density of not more than 25 Parking Bays for every 2 acres.

per acres. For every 15 parking bays constructed at least 8 caravans (bought or

rented) must be available onsite for immediate occupancy. All caravans bought or

rented must comply with the caravan specifications in India.

• Park Design and Location: The park should be compatible with its surroundings

(natural and manmade), . Open space should be of adequate dimensions and

designed for its intended purpose. It should be landscaped to a standard that

visually and physically separates the Caravan Park from surrounding uses and

where desirable, separates uses within the park. There should be a provision of

proper sewage disposal, rain water harvesting & picnic tables. The park layout

should be capable of achieving adequate separation of different occupancies and

activities and should be constructed to a standard suitable for use in all weather

conditions.

• Landscaping:

o Landscaping and plantation should be planned in a way to achieve privacy,

screening and security.

o Plantations and green cover should be in accordance / line with local

indigenous species.

o Landscaped areas should be located and designed to alleviate prevailing

winds, dust and to some extent, noise.

o Proper water harvesting structures should be put into place and

wherever possible, recycled water should be used in landscaped areas.

• Onsite Facilities: The following facilities should be provided for:

o Food Court

o Pharmacy



o Information Kiosk

o Wifi coverage

• Open space recreation: In addition to the buffer zone and separation strips

between Caravan Parks and roads, a space or spaces for the purpose of

recreation may be provided within the park at a rate of not less than 5% of the

total site area. This space should be strategically located in relation to the

Caravan Parks and roads to ensure safe conditions for children with respect to

vehicular movement.

• Internal Roadways: All internal roadways should be designed to provide for

convenient vehicular movement within the Caravan Park. They should be of

adequate width, provided with an approved surface and be adapted to the

topography of the park area. The design should provide adequate drainage and

the elimination of excessive grades and cut. Road levels should facilitate site

drainage.

• There should be provision for wheelchair accessibility in the Caravan Park.

• Parking Bays: The Parking Bays are to be provided as follows:

o At least one bay with a minimum size of 15m x 6 m (Relaxable for hilly

and high altitude areas).

o And other bays with a minimum size of 7.5 m x 5 m.

o There should be a minimum gap of 5 metres between caravans. Each

parking bay should be clearly defined and should have direct access to a

metal/ cemented service road. The parking bay should be raised minimum

6 inches from the ground. Construction of the parking bay should ideally

be of brick & mortar. Each parking bay should be provided with electricity

and water connections, sewerage and solid waste outlets in strict

adherence to international / Indian environmental norms / best eco

practices.

ii. Services to be provided at Parking Bays

• Water: The Caravan Park should be provided with a constant supply of water

including a constant supply of potable water. Each parking bay should be provided

with a standpipe designed in such a way so that there is unhindered

vehicular movement and approved tap fitting capable of having a hose attached

thereto.

• Electricity and lighting: Electricity supply and distribution throughout the Caravan



Park should comply with the supply authorities’ codes and standards applicable.

Each site should be provided with an outlet. All areas of the Caravan Park

especially the parking and basic facilities areas should be well lit with provision of

a generator for back up.

• Laundry facilities: Laundry facilities should be provided with a minimum of one

washing machine and an automatic dryer for every five parking bays.

• Toilet Facilities: The toilet building of the caravan parks should have separate

screened access for men and women, . with adequate supply of hot and cold

water. Separate toilets for drivers should be provided. The ladies’ toilet should

have two water closets (WC’s), two wash hand basins & mirrors, two showers

and dressing areas Baby Changing facility for every ten bays. Men’s toilet should

have atleast one urinal (2 stalls) two water closets (WC’s) two wash hand basins

& mirrors, two showers and dressing areas for every ten bays. Separate toilets

should be provided for differently abled. All the above facilities should be

provided within two years from the date of issue of this policy. New caravan

parks should be provided with ecological sanitation (Ecosan) which offers a new

philosophy of dealing with what is presently regarded as waste and wastewater.

Clarification: In case of caravan parks having more than ten parking bays, the

toilets for men and ladies should be increased as a multiple of these

configurations for every ten Parking Bays or part thereof.

• Waste disposal: Waste disposal should be carried out in a hygienic manner,

adhering to Responsible Standards, Hygiene, and Environment Friendly Practices.

• Movement and Parking: A drive-in area and forecourt of sufficient dimensions

should be provided for the parking of caravans and towing vehicles, clear of the

general traffic movement. Turning circles must be designed to ensure that a

caravan and towing vehicle can turn in the space without disrupting the general

Caravan Park area.

• Minimum Caravan Specifications: The specially built vehicles being used for the

purpose of travel, leisure and accommodation would be termed as ‘Caravan’ and

would include vehicles viz. RVs, Campervans, Motor Homes etc. with following

minimum features:

o Sofa cum bed for 2 persons.

o Kitchenette with fridge and micro wave oven.

o Toilet cubicle with hand shower and sufficient fresh water storage.

o Partition behind driver.

o Communication between passenger and driver.

o Air- condition (desirable).

o Eating table.



o Audio / video facility.

o Complete charging system – external and internal.

o Caravan should be enabled with GPS.

o Vehicle to be Bharat Stage II compliant.

• Hygiene, Responsible Standards, Environment Friendly Practices: Responsible

tourism friendly policy should be adopted for sustainable growth which also

benefits the local community and does not adversely affect the local environment.

Use of eco-friendly practices and local products should be encouraged. There

should be a provision of facility for segregation of garbage into biodegradable

(kitchen waste etc), non-bio-degradable (thermo coal products, aluminium foil,

cigarette butts etc) & recyclable (newspapers, bottles, cans etc). Composting

should be encouraged for the disposal of kitchen garbage. Solid waste and sewage

disposal should be carried out in an orderly and eco-friendly manner. Each

Caravan Park should be provided with a system for the reception, storage and

disposal of all refuse and waste matter originating from the park. All such

materials should be handled in a manner so as to not create any offence, hazard

to health, harborage for vermin nor permit possible fly/ mosquito breeding. Two

standard pattern garbage covered receptacles / bins for bio-degradable and non-

degradable waste should be provided for each parking bay, which should be

cleaned at least twice a day. The Caravan Park should be provided with an

adequate and safe method of sewerage collection treatment and disposal. The

sewerage system should be installed in accordance with the requirements of the

concerned authorities. Each Caravan Park should be provided with an approved

sewer connection point for waste water originating from the caravan.

iii. Other Operational Requirements

The Operational requirements for the Caravan parks would be:

• Caravan Parks should be operational 24 x 7 during the tourist season.

• Entity must appoint an experienced Manager to operate and maintain the park,

the criteria for which will be decided by the Certification Authority.

• Caravan Parks should be well connected by fair-weather road from the main

road

• Caravan Parks shall have all necessary trading licenses / NOCs from concerned

authorities including fire NOC.

• Establishment shall have public liability insurance

• Standardization of electricity, garbage disposal, water and sewage connections to



ensure total compatibility with Caravan specifications in India.

iv. Safety & Security

To provide hassle-free and stress-free environment for the visitors, the caravan parks should be housed in a safe and secure zone. The following mandatory requirements need to be fulfilled to ensure this. • Registration to be done with police department and constant communication

with police department.

• A boundary wall with limited entry and lockable gates around the Caravan Park

area to avoid unnecessary trespassing and unauthorized entry. Adequate security

and safety arrangements in the Caravan Park viz. deployment of security guards

with a system of patrolling.

• A properly equipped First Aid kit at the reception and adequate first aid training

should be provided to the staff. The facility of doctor-on-call should be available

at the park. A well defined mechanism should be available to handle a medical

emergency. The park management should maintain effective coordination with

local medical establishments.

• The supervisory staff and other workers should be trained in Disaster

Management to face disasters such as fire, road accidents, earthquakes, floods,

landslides (in hills) etc.

d. Incentives/ Concessions

DoT is offering various incentives/concessions with a view to spread the new concept of caravan tourism in Karnataka. These concessions are set out in the following sections/clauses:

• Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and

applying for availing Incentives for the tourism related projects and services.

• Annexure 1 for classification of towns/ cities in Karnataka for the purpose of

availing incentives.

• Annexure 2 for eligibility for availing incentives and concessions under this

category.



4) Guidelines for re-use of Heritage Buildings in Karnataka

a. Introduction

Karnataka has an extremely diverse and varied heritage, both tangible5 and intangible. Karnataka is home to several heritage sites, forts and palaces. 507 of the 3,600 centrally protected monuments in India are in Karnataka. The State has more than 50 unique monuments, temples & palaces, including two UNESCO World Heritage sites at Hampi & Pattadakkal. Other key heritage locations include Mysore/Srirangapatnam, Bijapur, Belur, Halebid, Hampi, Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal and Halasi. Intangible heritage of the State includes varied customs, music, indigenous languages, poetry, dance, festivities, religious ceremonies as well as systems of healing, traditional knowledge systems and skills connected with the material aspects of culture. The Department of Tourism (DoT), GoK acknowledges that the heritage of Karnataka is the legacy of physical artefacts and intangible attributes of the state that are inherited from past generations and need to be maintained in the present, so as to be bestowed for the benefit of future generations. With this background, DoT has devised the following guidelines to inspire and encourage the owners of heritage assets to conserve and preserve their assets, develop their facilities to promote tourism activities and contribute towards the economy of the State.

b. Eligibility

These guidelines shall apply to those buildings, artifacts, structures, streets, areas and precincts of historic, architectural, aesthetic, cultural or environmental value and those natural feature areas of environmental significance or of scenic beauty including, but not restricted to, sacred groves, hills, hillocks, water bodies (and the areas adjoining the same), open areas, wooded areas, points, walks and rides, which shall be certified by the Approval Authority6. Any building/structure, which has been certified by the Approval Authority ‘heritage’, can be put to re-use for tourism related activities such as hotel, cafeteria, restaurant, museum, gallery, food court, exhibition space, arts and craft centre etc. In case the building is used as a Homestay (with upto 5 rooms), the guidelines on Homestays provided in this Policy will be applicable.

5 Tangible heritage includes buildings and historic places, monuments, artifacts, etc., which are considered worthy of preservation for the future. These include objects significant to the archaeology, architecture, science or technology of a specific culture. 6 Heritage Commissioner/ Indian Heritage Cities Network or any such authority as decided by the DoT, GoK



• Incentives would be provided on capital investment for Restoration and Reconstruction

• “Restoration” means and includes returning the existing fabric of a place to a known earlier state by removing accretions or by reassembling existing components without introducing new materials.

• “Reconstruction” means and includes returning a place as nearly as possible to a known earlier state and distinguished by the introduction of materials (new or old) into the fabric. This shall not include either recreation or conjectural reconstruction.

c. Requirements

The owner/ operator shall ensure that the heritage property/site/building shall be preserved and conserved and comply with all rules/regulations laid down by the Approving Authority. • “Conservation” means all the processes of looking after a place so as to retain its

historical and/or architectural and/or aesthetic and/or cultural significance and includes maintenance, preservation, restoration, reconstruction and adoption or a combination of more than one of these.

• “Preservation” means and includes maintaining the fabric of a place in its existing state and retarding deterioration.

d. Incentives and Concessions:

The following incentives/ concessions shall be applicable to the heritage buildings/structure/site registered with the DoT, GoK and eligible as per (a) above;

• The applicant shall be exempt from paying conversion fee as per the bye-laws/zoning

regulations. • The applicant shall be entitled to enjoy TDR as per prevailing applicable laws. • The applicants are requested to refer to:

o Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and applying for availing Incentives for the tourism related projects and services.

o Annexure 1 for classification of towns/ cities in Karnataka for the purpose of availing incentives.

o Annexure 2 for eligibility for availing incentives and concessions under this category.



5) Guidelines for developing Health-Care Tourism

a. Introduction

Karnataka has emerged as the hot spot for healthcare tourism, a concept of travelling to a particular destination to avail the opportunity of the world-class healthcare services offered by the front-runners in healthcare facilities. Karnataka has the highest number of approved health systems and alternative therapies in India. Along with some ISO certified government-owned hospitals, private institutions which provide international-quality services have caused the health care industry to grow by 30% during the past few years. Hospitals in Karnataka treat around 12,000 health tourists every year. Karnataka attracts foreign tourists in large numbers throughout the year and many of the medical facilities are providing treatment on par with international standards. The team of qualified doctors, paramedics, low treatment costs, and tourism attractions has opened up a sea of opportunities for the foreign travellers. In order to take advantage of this potential, the Department of Tourism (DoT), GoK intends to promote health care tourism with focus on world-class quality of medical services and support facilities, targeting foreign markets. The Government proposes to promote Mangalore, Bangalore, Mysore and Hubli-Dharwad regions as Healthcare Tourism clusters. Any interested party who wishes to set up medical/healthcare tourism facilities in these areas would be given priority, and incentives and concessions as applicable, would be extended. These guidelines set out the eligibility criteria, basic requirements/ conditions that the entities must fulfil in order to establish the facilities, and also avail incentives from the Government.

b. Eligibility

DoT invites applications from the following sectors of the service industry, as they would easily identify with the requirements of healthcare as a service sector:

• Hospital

• Hospitality (accommodation)

• Transportation services

• Tours and other tourism related services for the medical/ healthcare tourism facility/

cluster


DoT has emphasized on certain specific requirements which are mandatory for the entity/Hospital to operate under this sector.

Pre-Treatment Facilities: The Entity/multi-speciality hospital should provide the following



facilities to visitors/patients, prior to hospitalization: These facilities would cater to all needs of the visitor arising right from arrival at the airport to reaching the health-care facility, and would cover the following:

o Facilitate and ensure provision of transportation services between the airport to

healthcare facilities. The agency which will carry out this service on behalf of the

entity will be eligible to be registered as a ‘tour operator’ with DoT.

o The entity should establish Healthcare tourism representative offices in the target

markets by choosing the most appropriate form of representative office, according

to the needs and context. This could encompass an information representative

office and facilitation lounge at the airport, a representative office providing

consulting and travel organisation services in the cluster, and/or a representative

office providing medical consultations before and after the trip.

The hospital identified for treatment of visitors under this package should encompass the following:

o The Entity/Hospital should have at least 100 beds and state-of-the-art infrastructure

facilities with well trained medical and paramedical staff. The hospital should also

have all facilities to deal with emergency services and should be registered with the

Medical Council of India

o The hospital should have a ‘guest-relation’ facility within the hospital/ healthcare

cluster as a point of contact between the visitor and the hospital, to help resolve

any queries/issues which may arise during the entire process

Post-Treatment Facilities: To ensure proper and adequate after treatment services, DoT has laid emphasis on post-treatment facilities that the hospital needs to provide, by adhering to the following:

o The hospital shall have a tie up with a hospitality centre for post-treatment (could

be wellness resort/ ayurveda centre etc.) in close proximity to the healthcare

cluster.

o The hospital should be appropriately marketed through publicity and promotion

activites.

To support this endeavour, GoK would conduct annual conferences for healthcare tourism. It would also carry out accreditation of the facilities based on NABH/ applicable standards.

d. Incentives



DoT has earmarked various incentives to promote the health-care tourism in the State of Karnataka. Incentives would be provided for services across the healthcare tourism chain such as Tour and Transportation services, Hospital Facilities including medical equipments, accommodation such as hotels, resorts, homestays, etc. The applicants are requested to refer to: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and applying



incentives.




6) Guidelines for Eco Tourism

a. Introduction

Karnataka with its scenic hills, forests with abundant wildlife and beautiful beaches, has a lot of potential for development as an ecotourism destination. Kodagu, Kabini, Nagarhole, Dandeli, Murudeshwar, Gokarna, Bandipur, Kudremukh, Devbagh, Kaup, chikmagalur, Rangantithu, Kemmanagundi, Job Falls and Shivanasamudram Falls are some of the destinations which have a potential to be developed as ecotourism destinations. In recent years, the mushrooming of tourist facilities around protected areas has led to the exploitation, degradation, disturbance, and misuse of fragile ecosystems. It has also led to misuse of the term ‘ecotourism’, often to the detriment of the ecosystem, and towards further alienation of local people and communities. These guidelines are applicable to any Protected Areas, National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Community reserves; Conservation Reserves, Sacred Groves, or Pilgrimage Spots located within protected areas and forested areas. The Department of Tourism (DoT), GoK has developed these guidelines for facilitating identification, promotion and development of lesser known areas having ecotourism potential in addition to popular destinations. At the same time, these guidelines aim for diversification in the range of tourism activities available at destinations and facilitate involvement of the local communities living in, and dependent on peripheral and other areas for their livelihood.

b. Eligibility

With a view to encourage entities to enter into the Ecotourism segment, DoT has offered several incentives. The Entity applying for availing incentives for development of ecotourism destination would be eligible under the ecotourism guidelines for availing subsidy, provided the proposal conforms to the following principles: • The proposed ecotourism activities will be in strict conformance with the provisions

of the existing environmental law of the country, especially the Wildlife (Protection)

Act, the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the various other directives and

guidelines issued by the Government from time to time.

• Adherence to international standards in terms of quality and safety in developing and

operating ecotourism facilities and activities.

• The Entity would need to conduct carrying capacity of the proposed site to arrive at

the types and level of tourism related activity that the proposed site can sustainably

accommodate.



• Priority will be given to developing sites near existing and known tourist destinations.

• The proposed project will focus on creating environmental awareness amongst all

sections and age groups, especially the youth, to be incorporated as a major activity

for each ecotourism destination.

• Only activities and facilities having least impact on the natural resources and the local

culture will be permitted.

• The proposal should focus on providing quality experience rather than the number of

visitors, without compromising on financial viability as far as possible.

• Wherever resources harnessed for ecotourism are traditionally in use by the local

community, the proposal should be developed in consultation with them and

mechanisms to ensure flow of benefits to the community should be clearly identified.

• The proposal should highlight the marketing strategies for promotion of the

proposed project, which should be based on sound market research and

segmentation analysis and make wide use of electronic, print and cyber media for

marketing.

• Installation of technologically efficient systems and clean development mechanisms

will be mandatory for operation of any ecotourism facility.

• Tourism infrastructure proposed in the project shall conform to environment-

friendly, low impact aesthetic architecture, including solar energy, waste recycling,

rainwater harvesting, natural cross-ventilation, and proper sewage disposal and

merging with the surrounding habitat.

• To avoid the number of visitors and vehicles exceeding carrying capacity, the entity

shall establish an online advance booking system to control tourist and vehicle

numbers. Rules of booking shall be transparent and violators shall be penalized.

c. Other Requirements:

In addition to eligibility, there are certain mandatory requirements that DoT has spelt out for entities operating Ecotourism destinations. Ecotourism activities to be identified and developed at any destination shall be site-specific i.e. dependent upon the potential of the particular site being developed. Following are the activities and facilities that may be undertaken for promoting an area as an ecotourism destination within the State.

• Nature Camps: Camping sites identified for ecotourism activities should be d

provided with basic facilities to enable the tourists to stay in natural surroundings

either solely to experience the wilderness, or additionally for participating in other

activities requiring overnight stay in forests.

• Eco-friendly Accommodation: Accommodation that would be developed in an eco-

tourism destination should be ‘eco-friendly’, i.e.,

i) They should be built with locally available material



ii) Should make use of renewable resources

iii) Should adopt ecological sustainable solutions such as water harvesting etc.

Above all, the entire concept should contribute to the revenue of the local community and raise their living standards by involving them in provision of various services related to this segment of tourism.

• Trekking and Nature Walks: Eco-tourism destinations identified in Trekking routes of

varying distances and guided nature trails should ensure that they cause minimum/no

disturbance to the natural vegetation and soil. Staff and local persons, especially

youth should be appropriately trained to act as Nature Guides and Naturalists so as

to assist visitors during wildlife viewing and trekking.

• Wildlife Viewing and River Cruise: Wildlife viewing in eco-friendly vehicles or on

elephant backs should be promoted at appropriate sites for observing wildlife.

• Adventure Sports: Facilities for adventure sports such as rock climbing, rappelling and

parasailing along with water sports such as river rafting, boating and canoeing should

be developed in consultation and cooperation with experts and the concerned

department or agency having control over the water bodies.

• Angling: Angling facilities for Mahaseer and other suitable fish species, strictly on a

catch and release basis, should be developed only on suitable rivers/ water bodies

flowing through or along the forest areas in consultation with the concerned

Department. If necessary, water bodies may be artificially stocked by rearing and

releasing fish seed into the rivers that have been depleted of the target species over

time.

• Herbal Ecotourism: Herbal ecotourism should be made the thrust areas only at

locations having a rich herbal heritage. Traditional medicinal practices of such

locations could be explored and based on these, authentic herbal inputs having

appropriate certifications and recognition could be made available to the tourists.

• Urban Ecotourism through Eco-Parks: In order to promote urban ecotourism, eco-

parks could be developed in various urban centers. Such Eco-parks should contain

provisions for various ecotourism activities including interpretation centers, trekking,

nature walks, biking, bird watching, camping, angling, herbal center, adventure sports

etc. on a small scale, depending upon the area being developed. For this purpose,

existing public parks in urban localities could also be utilized.



• Visitor Interpretation Centers: Existing interpretation facilities should be

strengthened to provide complete information to visitors and accommodate the

requirements of various classes of visitors envisaged. Each destination must

incorporate ways to enhance and enrich the visitor experience.

• Conservation Education: Conservation education should be promoted in and around

each destination for creating awareness amongst school and college students, local

communities, government staff and visitors in order to maintain and enhance support

for ecotourism and environmental conservation. Various means that could be

adopted include media campaigns, formation of eco-clubs at schools and colleges,

exposure visits to destinations, displays and hoardings, community centers etc. New

and innovative methods shall also be encouraged.

• Other Facilities: Facilities for any other eco-friendly activities could also be developed

based on specific requirements of a site, provided the activity is compatible with the

overall objectives of this policy and in conformance with the various standards and

guidelines laid down in this regard.


To create awareness of the concept of Eco-tourism, DoT has offered several incentives/concessions to encourage entities to develop this segment. These are set out in various sections/clauses: The applicants are requested to refer to: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and applying



incentives.




7) Guidelines for developing Adventure Tourism & related activities in Karnataka

a. Introduction Karnataka has diverse tourist products ranging from Heritage, Nature, Beach, Pilgrim, urban, rural, eco tourism and adventure tourism. Karnataka has a huge potential for development of adventure tourism. There are a vast number of Adventure Tourism Activities being conducted in the State. Adventure Tourism proves the tourist with a special thrill and feeling of adventure while participating in sporting events in rivers, water bodies, and hills etc. Adventure-based tourism was initially limited to specific regions of India and the trend has been showing an increased movement year after year with the development of facilities and greater awareness about adventure tourism options across the country. Karnataka with its rugged terrains, undulating mountains, pristine beaches, thundering rivers, and dense forests can be development as a premier adventure tourism destination.

In order to tap the abundant natural resources that Karnataka is endowed with, the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka (DoT) intends to steer Adventure Tourism to the next level. Some of the prominent locations for developing adventure tourism include Rivers of Cauvery, Kali, Sharavathi, Nethravathi, Ramnagar, Badami, Hampi, Uttara and Dakshin Karnataka, Shimoga, Chikmaglur, Hassan, Kodagu, Yana in Kumta.

DoT has set out certain eligibility criteria for entities aspiring to enter the Adventure Tourism segment. These criteria have been laid out to safeguard the tourists from the perils of the various activities associated with this segment of tourism. Accordingly, incentives have also been worked out to those entities that are best equipped to enter this segment.

b. Eligibility The Entity applying for availing subsidy for development of adventure tourism destination would be eligible under the adventure tourism guidelines for availing subsidy, provided the proposal conforms to the following principles: • Operators will have to be registered with Adventure Tour Operators Association of

India and Ministry of Tourism.

• The Adventure tourism operator must follow the general guidelines for all Adventure

Sports and the Activity Specific Guidelines for specific activities where applicable to

be eligible for the subsidy / incentives.

The entity that wishes to operate this segment of tourism should ensure the following:



• Prohibition of Alcohol Intake and Drugs: Consuming alcohol in any form or quantity

or illicit drugs at least six hours prior to the river trip should not be allowed.

• Foreign Guides: Foreign Guides must be aware of the Indian Safety Regulations

before being allowed to operate. They must fulfill the required criteria and should do

a few familiarization runs on the river and equipment before being allowed to

operate commercially. A valid first aid certificate is a must.

• Minimum Age Requirements: Only Children over 12 years should be allowed to

participate in adventure activities, that too, after the operator has made reasonable

prior judgment and exercised extreme caution. Safety Briefing: Guides/ trip leader

should ensure that a thorough brief on safety, covering all pertinent details for that

particular trip is imparted. . The trip leader should ensure that clients are suitably

dressed, (bulky clothes, sarees, neck ties, long skirts and three piece suits should not

be permitted). People suffering from any serious ailments, weak heart conditions,

epilepsy, and expecting mothers should not be allowed.

• Advertisements showcasing any adventure tourism should depict the difficulties and

dangers involved. Every group participating in adventure sports should be

accompanied by a trained guide.

• The guide should possess appropriate qualification and skills for the specific

adventure activity.

• Guides should have the following basic skills:

o Be familiar with search procedures and brief all group members on these

procedures.

o Have a first aid certification and should be competent to impart first aid

training in the use of stretchers.

o Should be proficient in the use of maps and compasses in any weather by day

or night.

o Should be familiar with helicopter operations; know how to approach a

helicopter and procedures for being winched up and down.

• Every person joining a group engaged in adventure sports should receive an

introductory training and the guide should be satisfied that they have acquired the

skills necessary to participate. Guide should be satisfied that all members are

medically fit to take part in the adventure sports.

• All group members should be familiar with the use of radios wherever they are being

used.

• All equipment used should meet all safety norms for each adventure sport and all

inspections have to been carried out as recommended by the manufacturer and are

fit for use.

• Under no circumstances should the capacity rated by the manufacturer of adventure



sports equipment be exceeded, any unauthorized modifications, except as additional

safety measures, be carried out or sub-standard material used.

• Information regarding nature of activity, area of operation, period of activity, possible

hazards, persons to be contacted in an emergency, and list of members should be

given to the concerned safety and rescue committees.

• A qualified Doctor should be available on call. First aid should be available at site with

Qualified First aid Instructors (having additional knowledge of related accidents), with

arrangements from a nearby hospital for quick emergency services.

• Communication facilities such as Mobile Telephone / Walkie - Talkie etc. should be

available.

• Use of package wastewater treatment plant should be encouraged for recycling

wastewater for making the campsite a zero discharge facility.

c. Specific Requirements:

Adventure Tourism should also advocate Safe Tourism. DoT has laid out specific requirements for Adventure Tourism involving greater peril, to ensure safety of the participants and build their confidence levels. Caution should be stringently exercised by meeting these requirements with respect to the following adventure activities: • MOUNTAINEERING

o Application: These Basic Minimum Standards (BMS) will apply specifically to

commercial operators attempting 6000m or other comparable peaks, which

offer to guide or accompany climbers above Base Camp and also to operators

who offer more limited facilities. However, it will also concern operators who

supply transport etc to Base Camp, and also supply Base Camp services and

High Altitude porters.

o Information to Clients: A variety of organisations offer to take clients on

6000m or other comparable peaks. They vary from those which provide a full

service to the summit or nearly to the summit, to those where there is

minimal support for clients above Base Camp. However at the present

moment it is difficult for clients to deduce from brochures exactly what is

offered in terms of guiding and support, and whether it corresponds to their

needs. These Basic Minimum Standards will supply clients with pointers to

assist them to make an informed choice.

o Danger awareness: Mountaineers climbing at very high altitude, especially

above 6000m are at considerable stress to their mental and physical powers

and may not be capable of assisting others as has always been traditional in

mountaineering. This fact is of particular importance to mountaineers of

limited experience, who rely on professional guides to bring them safely up



and down 6000m+ peaks. They should be made aware that the risks involved

in climbing at altitudes are such that a degree of self-reliance is necessary. All

such operators will have to be registered with Adventure Tour Operators

Association of India and Ministry of Tourism.

o The leader or chief guide and as many as possible of the guides should have

high altitude experience appropriate to the altitude of the peak to be climbed.

He must have been a member of three climbing expeditions above 6000 m

and must have completed the Basic Mountaineering Course with an ‘A’ grade

or an equivalent from abroad. He/She must be qualified on first aid and

cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification.

o The guiding and porter staff on the mountain and the material supplied must

be adequate for the aims of the party and stated level of service offered.

o An experienced doctor in the party is desirable but at the very least advance

arrangements must be known for medical help. Advance arrangements must

also be made for evacuation assistance in case of emergency.

o The minimum safety equipment available is recommended walkie-talkie radios

and recommended medical supplies.

o If an expedition is commercially launched by an operator, then the

Biographical information about the guiding team should be included.

o The client must truthfully reveal his experience, supported by

documentation/photograph, medical history etc to the organiser so that the

organiser can make an informed choice about the potential client.

o Information supplied in advance will include a clear statement of the guiding,

porterage and equipment which will be supplied by the organiser, together

with details of the clothing and equipment to be supplied by the client. This is

not in context of the operators assisting expeditions with logistics alone.

o All equipment on which life is dependent must be Union International de

Alpine Association (UIAA) or European Union (EU) certified.

o Knowledge of low impact environmental expeditioning must be undertaken,

pledging to environmental guidelines of Union International de Alpine

Association (UIAA)/Himalayan Environment Trust (HET) etc.

• TREKKING

o The leader or chief guide and as many as possible of the guides should have

experience appropriate to the difficulty of the route being attempted The trip

leader must have completed at least two trekking trips in general and must

have completed the Basic Mountaineering Course or equivalent with an ‘A’

grade. He/ She must be qualified on first aid and cardiopulmonary



resuscitation (CPR) certification.

o The guiding and porter staff for the trek and the material supplied must be

adequate for the aims of the party and stated level of services offered.

o Adequate arrangements must be made known in advance for medical help

available in the area. Advance information must also be made for evacuation

assistance in case of emergency. Minimum first aid medical supplies must be

carried on the trip. In case of a helicopter requirement for rescue operation,

it is recommended that the Accreditation Committee be empowered to

authorize the rescue.

o Information provided to clients must give a true picture of all the difficulties

and dangers involved, and avoid promising the impossible. Biographical

information about the guiding team should be included.

o The client must truthfully reveal his experience, medical history etc to the

organizer so that the organizer can make an informed choice about the

potential client.

o Information supplied in advance will include a clear statement of the guiding,

porterage and equipment which will be supplied by the organizer, together

with details of the clothing and equipment to be supplied by the client.

• RIVER RUNNING

o Any company operating river running trips or commercial white water rafting

trips must be registered with Indian Association of Professional Rafting

Outfitters/Adventure Tour Operators Association of India and Ministry of

Tourism.

o All trips on white water for tourists will be conducted with at least one

qualified guide on each craft. A senior guide or trip leader must be present

and supervise the activity at all times.

o The Guide accompanying the trips should:

be at least 18 years of age;

be able to swim;

hold a valid first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

certificate or equivalent.

o Training: Guide trainees should complete a course (or equivalent training) that

equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and

competently guide a raft. A guide training course should include the following

topics:

Skills -rafting techniques, crew training and management,



emergency and rescue techniques.

Knowledge - equipment, safety and emergency procedures, rapid

theory, leadership, signals, environment protection.

o Recognition Experience: Guides should:

have guided a raft under the supervision of and to the satisfaction

of a Trip Leader on at least ten white water runs within the past

two years in rapids of the same class or higher than the run they

intend to guide on;

Should be trained from either National Institute of Water-sports

(NIWAS) or any equivalent recognised body in India or on an

International Level.

complete a familiarization run on any new stretch of white water

they intend to guide on;

maintain a log book recording each run and signed by the Trip

leader as proof of experience;

should have good communication skills in Hindi and English

o Special Requirements for Trip Leaders: Trip Leaders should:

have been qualified guides for at least two years;

have a high level of guide skills and knowledge;

have a thorough knowledge of trip planning, white water rescue

techniques, emergency procedures and advanced first aid;

have guided a raft as a qualified guide on at least twenty white

water runs within the past two years in rapids of the same class or

higher than the run they intend to lead on;

complete a familiarization run and know the evacuation routes on

any new stretch of white water they intend to lead on;

should have excellent communication skills in Hindi and English.

o Single Raft Trips: Some of the worst accidents in river running internationally

have occurred where there has been only one raft. There should always be at

least two crafts on the water i.e, two rafts or kayaks or a raft and a safety

kayak. This may be relaxed for float trips (maximum grade II) in the case of

rafts. For kayaks a minimum of two or preferably three is always

recommended. Safety Kayaks must be mandatory on technical rapids grade IV

and beyond. In case on continuous white water sections, one should look at a

minimum of one kayak per raft, if not more.



o Kit: All trips must carry a well- equipped first Aid kit (it must have triangular

bandages, sterile pads, gauze roller bandages, pressure bandages, first aid

adhesive tape, splints, scissors as bare minimum), a repair kit (it must contain

approx. half meter of repair material, a sufficient amount of flue and

accelerator, sand paper or roughing tool and waterproof repair tape/ duck

tape). Oar rafts must carry at least one spare oar. All rafts must have a safety

line going all around the raft, a bow- line and preferably a stern line as well. All

rafts must have a throw bag and a bailing bucket (in case of non self bailer

bucket boats). A flip line is recommended for all big drops.

o Personal River Equipment: All rafters/ kayakers must have a life jacket on all

times while on water. This includes the guides also. The life jackets must have

adequate buoyancy (minimum of 6.14 kgs, and preferably 9 – 10 kgs.), must be

the proper type (U.S. coast Guard Type III or V) with a provision of ensuring

a snug fit by straps etc. and the life jacket must be worn correctly. Inflatable

life jackets and the ‘keyhole’ type jackets should not be allowed. Guides must

ensure that the life jackets are on in a secure manner before the trip starts

and above all major drops. Helmets are mandatory on all rapids and it is

recommended that helmets be kept on throughout the trip. The helmet

should be properly strapped. Rafts must be of good condition with no leakage

or compartment damage. A baffle / compartment inflation check must be

carried out at regular intervals to ensure that each compartment is air tight

with no leaks. A minimum of 14 – 16 feet boats are recommended for

commercial rafting. Self bailing rafts are recommended.

o Age Limit: Fourteen years on all stretches except float trips (grade II and

below), where it may be relaxed to ten years.

o Non Swimmers: Non swimmers should not be allowed on any serious rapid

(grade III +/IV)/ or hard section.

o Familiarization Runs: One or two familiarization runs before operating

commercially each season or on new rivers is recommended. Rivers should

not be run commercially at flood levels.

o Senior Guide: A senior guide must have spent at least three consecutive

seasons on any of the above three rivers with a minimum of sixty days on the

river per season. He must have all requisite first aid and cardiopulmonary

resuscitation (CPR) qualifications and must have a clean safety record. A

senior guide must have river- running experience on at least three different

rivers.

o Safety Kayaker: A safety and rescue kayaker must be thoroughly trained and

experienced in all safety norms, river rescue and first aid/cardiopulmonary

resuscitation (CPR) certification. A minimum of thirty days on the river is



mandatory before kayaking with commercial trips.

• PARAGLIDING

o In case of solo flights the pilot should have undergone two full days ground

training consisting theoretical and practical training and instructor should

satisfy himself of the first launch both in hill and winch launched paragliding.

For first 15 launches height should be restricted to Max 500 feet and student

should be radio guided. After demonstrated capability for 180 degree stable

turns, five spot (20 mtrs) landings and after the theory paper is cleared, the

student may be allowed to carry out free fly. The student pilot must have a

valid registration with a club recognised by the Aero Club of India.

o Tandem pilots must have a tandem pilots license issued by the competent

authority, which will be issued after the following:

150 logged flights.

35 h + logged.

Pass theory paper

o All instructors must be current pilots having sufficient knowledge and

experience in the sport.

o Operator must have access to safe and open take off points in case of hill

launches. The take off point should be free from obstructions in the take off

path and should not have rock or crops which could injure the participant.

Cliff take off points must strictly not to be used.

o The operator must have free and clear access to a designated landing ground

free of obstructions such as tall trees, buildings, electric wires etc.

o Wind conditions should be strictly monitored and the activity must be done

within the weather conditions stipulated by the equipment manufacturer.

o Paragliding wings must have APCUL DHV or CEN certification. Such

certification should be stitched on the wing and visible for inspection. Harness

should be with back protection and harness must be fitted with round type

certified rescue parachute.

o Helmets and Ankle shoes must be compulsory.

o Proper log books must be maintained for all equipment.

o Annual inspection and certification of equipment for air worthiness must be

carried out.

• PARASAILING

o All operators shall be certified by the appropriate agency in terms of their



capability to conduct the activity on land or water, specifically endorsed to

allow multi-passenger flight operations.

o In Flight Floatation Devices and helmets: At all times passengers participating

in parasailing activities over water, while in flight shall wear a properly fitted

approved life jacket. Over land, the passengers must wear an ISI approved

helmet.

o Passenger Safety Briefing: All parasail participants shall be required to view a

Parasail Safety Briefing video and/ or be given a written Parasail Safety Briefing

handout. In addition, the crew shall give a pre-flight verbal summary of the

briefing before any parasail flight activities commence, which should include

the following:

A description of the activity itself.

Safety precautions while underway and in-flight.

Safety and life saving equipment locations.

Warnings and Procedures for unexpected events, such as water

landings, equipment malfunctions, and towline separation.

Procedure in the event of an emergency onboard the vessel.

The proper use of signals.

Question and answer period.

Exclusion of any participant that may be afraid or intimidated prior

to participation.

o Wind restrictions: Operator should have a wind measurement device and

should not operate in winds exceeding 18 Kph.

o Responsibility of Vessel Sea worthiness and tow vehicle road worthiness: It

shall be the responsibility of the first mate in charge to make certain that the

vessel is maintained and is properly equipped in a sea worthy condition. A

current written log shall be kept of all mandatory daily inspections and all

routine maintenance performed on vessel. Under no circumstances shall the

operator and/or crew utilize any equipment outside the parameters for which

it was designed and must at all times adhere to manufacturers’ specifications,

requirements and/or recommendations.

o Similar conditions should apply for land based parasailing vehicles.

o Pre-Flight Weather Evaluation should be carried out.

• BUNGEE JUMPING o All parts of the jump line must be duplicated. This extends from the



connection of the bungee to the jumper and the connection to the structure

at the other end of the line. Normally the jumper should have an attachment

to ankle straps, and another to a body or sit harness.

o Equipment (harnesses, karabiners) should be of sound construction and

suitable for this use. Mountaineering equipment from reputable suppliers is

appropriate. Karabiners should be of the screw gate type.

o Braided ropes: At least 2 braided ropes should be used and matched to the

weight of the jumper; they should be to BS 3F 70 1991 specification for heavy

duty braided rubber cord, or to a demonstrably similar standard.

o Unbraided ropes: Normally one unbraided rope is adequate because of the in-

built redundancy from its structure of approximately one thousand individual

strands bound together. Each rope should have an examiners certificate from

an independent source and be selected according to the weight of the jumper.

o Rope log books should be kept, describing maximum load, and numbers of

jumps and drop tests undertaken, and in the case of unbraided ropes, any

other conditions required by the examiner (eg length of time in sunlight).

Ropes have a finite life and operators should be able to demonstrate that this

has not been exceeded.

o There should be a written operating procedure. If not written, elements will

be more likely to be forgotten or short circuited. Both operators and

enforcement officers should be able to check that safe procedures have been

established and are being followed.

o The procedure should cover at least:

medical enquiry;

age verification - if under 18, parental consent should be required;

if under 14, they should not be allowed to jump;

weighing and rope selection: There should be a method of checking

that the weight of the jumper has been correctly measured and

recorded so as to ensure that the correct rope is selected for each

jumper;

attachment of each part of harness and ropes, and the checking of

each action by a second trained person;

briefing of jumper;

entry into and riding in cage;

re-instruction and jump; and

retrieval of jumper.

o Use of mobile cranes: Use of mobile cranes is not recommended allowed as

this is too dangerous.



o Other important elements: Training of personnel is of paramount importance.

Each job undertaken requires a different level of training and experience.

Those in charge should be able to demonstrate that everyone who is carrying

out a task has enough experience to do so, unless under direct supervision by

another experienced person. There should be a proper training schedule

showing how a person progresses from one level of competence to the next.

The schedule of work should clearly state, who carries out every safety

critical action and who checks it. Each person should know the tasks, which

they are permitted to carry out and those which they are not authorised to

do. To date, all known fatal accidents worldwide have resulted from human

error.

o The person in overall charge should keep close control of the site.

Arrangements should be made to exclude spectators from the jump zone for

their own safety and to avoid distraction of the operators.

o Anyone in a cage should be securely attached to it. Spectator riding, especially

by children, should be discouraged.

o There should be a dead-weight drop test of the whole line at the beginning of

the day to ensure its integrity.

o Spares for all the components in the jump line should be kept on site so as to

be available for immediate replacement of suspect components.

o An air bag should be used for jumps over land with unbraided ropes. The

purpose of the bag is to prevent a jumper striking the ground if an incorrect

rope selection is made. It is not to safeguard jumpers who fall due to a failure

to properly connect them to the supporting structure. Braided ropes to BS 3F

70 have an outer covering which tightens when stretched. Unbraided ropes

do not, so there is more risk of a jumper descending too far if a wrong rope

selection is made. If a jump is made over water with an unbraided rope,

relying on the water to perform the function of the airbag, steps should be

taken to ensure that there are no obstructions under the water surface. ln

addition, suitable arrangements should be made for rescue from the water. d. Subsidies

As limited entities have entered the ever-challenging Adventure Tourism segment, DoT is urging more applicants to invest in this segment by offering attractive incentives, in order to cater to the adrenaline rush of today’s generation. The GoK will provide subsidies for developing the following facilities in the Adventure tourism segment:

• Hard infrastructure, such as lodging facilities7, equipments and development of trails.

7 Please refer to the specific guidelines for setting up such facilities under this policy.



• Soft infrastructure, such as Trail maps, Accessible information on heritage and culture,

Ground operators and outfitters Training programs for adventure tourism providers

such as guides, interpreters, and ecologists.

The applicants are requested to refer to: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and applying



incentives.




8) Guidelines for developing Theme Parks

a. Introduction Theme parks provide a place for relaxation as an outdoor centre providing various rides, games and entertainment, live performances, food and beverage, and retailing. Similar to an amusement park, a theme park contains a variety of entertainment, food and beverage, and shops and an environment that is designed around a key theme. According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), a theme park is ‘an amusement park that has themed attractions, be it food, costumes, entertainment, retail stores and/or rides’. The theme is the main part of the visitors’ experience which is chosen when the park is planned to provide a focus for the design, development and operation of such a park. Therefore the selection of the theme is extremely important to the operations of the park. Department of Tourism, GoK intends to facilitate development of theme parks in the State. These guidelines have been devised to assist entities in setting up the theme parks in the state. Further, DoT aims to provide theme-filled entertainment zones to the public, as a change from the routine tourism spots that would have been visited several times. To achieve this objective, they are inviting the following entities, who would be well-equipped to provide “Tourism with a Difference”.

b. Eligibility • The entity could be:

o Public sector: Government, Quasi-governmental organisations

o Private sector: Multi-national organisations having interests in a number of

industries, eg Walt Disney Company with movies, media and parks, Major

leisure companies, Developers who include leisure as part of mixed-use

development, Small and medium-sized private enterprises, Individual

entrepreneurs

o Voluntary sector: National bodies, Trusts, Local charities, Cooperatives and

NGOs.

• DoT envisages to develop this concept of tourism across the following themes:

o Adventure - Excitement and action, Frightening, Mysterious, Thrill rides



o Futurism - Advances in society and technology, Discovery, Exploration of

science and technology, Robotics, Scientific, Science fiction

o International - Flavours of the world, International village, Miniature replicas,

Scenic spots, World expositions

o Nature – Animals, Floral displays, Horticultural gardens, Landscaping, Marine

life, Natural wonders, Ocean, Wildlife

o Fantasy – Animation, Cartoon characters, Childhood enchantment, Children’s

play park, Fairy tales, Magic, Make believe, Myths and legends

o History and culture –Authentic, Cultural heritage, Cultural village, Historic

ambience

o Movies – Comedy, Motion pictures, Show business or any other such theme as

approved by the Approving Authority.

• The development could be a:

o wholly new purpose-built attractions on site New purpose-built attractions

developed on sites that were previously used as attractions

o Major new development at existing attractions designed to rejuvenate or

enhance the market appeal of the site

o Improvement of facilities at existing attractions to enhance visitor satisfaction

or encourage secondary spending by visitors, such as the provision of new

retail outlets or themed catering at museums.


To develop effective Theme Parks, DoT has set out certain other requirements which need

to be fulfilled. These are outlined below:

• A detailed feasibility study would need to be submitted covering the three major

aspects:

o Site feasibility - site selection, location, size and area of land, and accessibility

etc.

o Market feasibility – appeal, attractiveness, potential visitor market etc.

o Financial feasibility – overall costs, revenue sources, pricing etc.

• A detailed safety management plan should be prepared covering the following factors:

o Environmental factors – eg illumination, gases, dust, noise

o Hazardous supplies and materials – eg pool chemicals, cleaning solvents

o Power source equipment – eg pumps, motors

o Electrical equipment – eg switches, control rooms

o Personal protective equipment



o Personal service and first aid equipment – eg restroom facilities

o Fire protection systems – eg alarms, sprinklers, fire extinguishers

o Walkways and roadways

o Working structures – eg ladders, scaffolding

o Transportation systems – eg cars, monorails, motorised service vehicles

o Warning and signalling devices

o Storage facilities

o Rides and buildings

o Location of dangerous machinery should be away or sectioned off from the

guests and common staff working areas.

o Fire exits to be provided in clearly visible locations

o Provision of stairs, escalators, elevators, access for the physically disabled to be

provided for safe and easy access to various areas and attractions in the park

o Car park security system to be provided for guest and staff vehicles

o Lockers to be provided for guest convenience and safekeeping of belongings.

• All applicable clearances should be taken from the concerned authorities and

submitted along with the proposal.

d. Incentives

To promote theme parks, DoT has offered certain incentives that are laid out in various

sections of these guidelines.

• The applicants are requested to refer to:

o Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and


o Annexure 1 for classification of towns/ cities in Karnataka for the purpose of


o Annexure 2 for eligibility for availing incentives and concessions under this

category.



9) Guidelines for developing Wayside Amenities

a. Introduction

Provision of wayside amenities is vital for comfort and convenience of the tourists visiting any tourist destination. Well-designed wayside amenities are instrumental to providing holistic experience to the visitors. Department of Tourism, GoK (DoT), intends to promote and facilitate development of wayside amenities on all the major National Highways, State Highways, and Major District Roads or at within a short distance from such roads connecting the identified tourist destinations on the priority basis. These amenities should include gender distinct toilets, cafeteria, mini store/ pharmacy and an information / souvenir booth. These amenities should be established at intervals of about 30 km along the highways leading to major tourist destinations. These guidelines have been devised to assist entities interested in setting up the wayside amenities in and around the identified tourist destinations and circuits. b. Eligibility To provide an enriching and fulfilling experience to all tourists visiting Karnataka, DoT intends to develop wayside amenities by assisting/ facilitating private entrepreneurs / franchisees. These entities would include: • Contractors of NHAI, PWD or any other Government agency developing any of the State roads along which the wayside amenity is proposed. • Private Land owners/ Entrepreneurs The land should be in effective possession of the legal entity developing/ implementing the project or could be handed over as through a contract by the Government agency/ department/ authority implementing the road project. DoT has already identified 200 locations for development of wayside facilities. Priority would be given to the development of wayside amenities at the identified locations by the government, while providing concessions. Please refer to the following table for locations identified for wayside amenities to be developed.

NH No. S. No. Identified Locations for developing wayside amenities NH-209 1. Stretch between Kanakapura and Malavalli e.e., Near Shimsha

River or Thorekadanahalli 2. Shimsha Township (Bluff) 3. Near Santhemarahalli Village 4. Near Suvarnamaukhi Dam i.e., the stretch between

Chamarajanagara and Punajanoor forest NH-48 5. Solur

6. Yediyur



7. Sakaleshpura NH-13 8. Jagalur

9. Between Km 150 to Km 160 10. Jalaki Check Post, the stretch between Karnataka/ Maharashtra

Border to Bihapur NH-9 11. At border of Karnataka/ Maharashtra

12. At border Karnataka/Andhra Pradesh 13. At Junction of NH-218 and NH-9 (Gulbarga)

NH-4 14. Stretch between Dobesptet and Sira 15. Stretch between Sira and Hiriyur 16. After Chitradurga i.e., probably sericulture land 17. Ranebennur 18. Shravanur Cross 19. Stretch between Belgaum and Nippani (Near Bhataprabha

Cross) NH-17 20. Stretch between Kundapura and Kumta

21. Near Kumta Town 22. Beleguli Junction of NH-17 and NH-63

NH-4A 23. Near Castlerock or Border of Karnataka/Goa NH-63 24. Lakkundi the stretch between Hubli and Koppal

25. Yellapur the stretch between Ankola/Hubli NH-207 26. Vishwanathapura, the stretch between Devahahalli and

Doddaballapura Apart from the development of wayside amenities, DoT also aims to encourage development of midway wayside facilities to be developed into resorts.


In addition to basic facilities to improve the comfort of tourists, DoT has made it mandatory for the following facilities to be provided at every wayside amenity and all these should be wheelchair accessible.

Facilities Requirement Remarks

AREA 2 acres (minimum) PARKING Mandatory Taxis/Private Cars 25 parking lots Tourist Coaches/Buses

10 parking lots

AMENITIES Fuel Station • Petrol and Diesel refuelling stations

at least 2 of each as per the norms and standards

Optional



Maintenance and Repairs

• Onsite mechanic • Basic repairs and services such as car

cleaning, puncture repair, etc.

Optional

Food Plaza / Restaurants

• Capacity to serve 50-100 persons at anytime.

Mandatory

Toilets and Washrooms

• Separate Complex for men and women

• Minimum 6 toilets and 4 shower rooms per complex.

• Provision for special toilets and showers for old and/or disabled persons must be made.

Mandatory

Changing Rooms • Gender specfic changing rooms (2 each)with provision for changing baby diapers in women’s changing rooms.

Mandatory

Conveyance Store • There must be a conveyence store stocked with basic groceries

Optional

Coffee Shop • 24X7 Coffee shop Optional

SOCIAL UTILITIES Emergency/Medical Facilities;

• 24X7 doctor on call • Onsite First Aid Kit and 2 first aid

trained/ paramedic personnel should be available 24x7.

• Onsite ambulance.

Optional

Pharmacy • 24x7 Pharmacy Optional

Sewage Treatment Plant

• Onsite Sewage treatment plant must be developed and will be given additional incentives

Optional

HOTEL

Rooms • Minimum 2 AC Double rooms Mandatory Conference Room • At least one Conference room with

a capacity to seat 20 people. Optional

Dimensions for standard parking spaces and loading/unloading bays should be as follows:

Type of Parking Space

Length (m)

Width (m)

Minimum Headroom (m)

Private Cars and Taxis 5 2.5 2.4

Light Goods Vehicles (LGV)

7 3.5 3.6



Medium / Heavy Goods Vehicles (MGV/HGV)

11 3.5 4.7

Container Vehicles 16 3.5 4.7

Coaches and buses 12 3.5 3.8

Light buses 8 3.0 3.3

Notes:

i) Buses mean a motor vehicle constructed or adapted for the carriage of more than 16 passengers and their personal effects.

ii) Light buses mean a motor vehicle having permitted gross vehicle weight not exceeding 4 tonnes which is constructed or adapted for use solely for the carriage of not more than 16 passengers and their personal effects, but does not include an invalid carriage, motorcycle, motor tricycle, private car and taxi.

iii) Minimum headroom means the clearance between the floor and the lowest projection from the ceiling, including any lighting units, ventilation duct, conduits or similar installations.

• The proposed facility should be as per the design and architectural standards

specified by DoT. • A Board/ Hoarding indicating ‘Sponsored by DoT’ should be provided at the

entrance at strategic location and should be clearly visible from a minimum of 250mts from the access road.

• There should be two lane entries and exit road of good quality built as per NH, SH standards for easy access into the amenity. Traffic from both directions must have separate access roads.

• Clear visible signage indicating the location and distance from the wayside amenity should be placed at distance of 5kms, 2kms, 1km , 750 mtrs, 500mts and 250 mtrs from the access road.

• Provision of 24X7 power supply and water facilities and generator backup must be available.

• Hygiene, Responsible Standards, Environment Friendly Practices: There should be a provision of facility for segregation of garbage into biodegradable (kitchen waste from food stall, etc), non-bio-degradable (aluminum foil, cigarettes, etc) & recyclable (newspapers, bottles, cans, plastics etc). Two standard pattern garbage covered receptacles / bins for bio-degradable and non-degradable waste should be provided.



• Environmentally friendly practices will be eligible for availing additional incentives. The same shall be based on the discretion of the Committee appointed by the DoT.

d. Incentives and Concessions:

To invite/encourage entities to invest in the Wayside Tourism sector, DoT has offered certain attractive incentives. These are laid out in various sections/clauses. The applicants are requested to refer to: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and





category.

The facility would be eligible for additional incentive for provision of STP, green energy and other environmental friendly initiatives. The quantum of incentive would be directly proportional to the size and provision of proposed facilities. Additional incentives will be provided if the facility is bigger, has more rooms (resort), garden/landscaping etc. These additional incentives would be worked out as a percentage of the project cost or as a lump sum, and would be solely at the discretion of the Approving Authority(s).



10) Guidelines for Yatri Niwas and Dormitories

a. Introduction

The Department of Tourism envisages 210 million tourists visiting the State by 2024, compared to 100 million tourists visiting currently (Based on KTVG Report 2014.). The pride of a State, vests in its ability to provide quality, comfort and safe accommodation to tourists across various income groups. This requires augmentation of tourist accommodation facilities across the states through various means such as hotels, homestays, Yatri Niwas, dormitories and hostels. These guidelines have been proposed to assist and facilitate development of quality and affordable Yatri Niwas and dormitories in the state with the intent to provide tourists an affordable, comfortable and convenient option for accommodation.

b. Eligibility DoT intends to develop the Yatri Niwas and dormitories by assisting/ facilitating private entrepreneurs / franchisees and has set out the following eligibility criteria for entities opting to enter this tourism segment. These entities could be: • Existing reputed private hoteliers, Yatri Niwas owners • Private Land owners/ Entrepreneurs

Priority will be given to those entities which are: • Already in the tourism sector with a prior expertise in operations and management of similar projects. • Owners of Land suitable for development of such facilities around the identified tourist destinations. • Existing Yatri Niwas who intend to upgrade their facilities to avail incentives. In such cases the incentive will be provided for the upgradation works.

c. Other Requirements for Yatri Niwas

Other requirements defined by DoT for availing incentives for Yatri Niwas under this policy include: • The site area on which Yatri Niwas is located should be at least 0.5 acre. • Ownership/lease of land and land use should be in order. • Should be located on National Highway, State Highway or Main District Road (MDR) or within distance of 1.5 kms, 1 km or 0.5 km. respectively from such highways/MDR. • The facility must be wheelchair accessible.



• Should have at least 10 lettable rooms and 100% of lettable rooms should have attached bathrooms. 4 out every 10 rooms must be wheelchair accessible and have attached bathrooms that can be used by disabled persons and /or senior citizens. • Should have at least 2 dormitory rooms one for women and one for men as per the requirements specified for constructing dormitories under these guidelines. • Should have restaurant/dining hall with sitting area of minimum 30 sq. mtrs. (excluding kitchen, Storage) • The double room and single room should have minimum carpet area of 12 sq.mtrs and 10 sq.mtrs respectively. • Rooms should have adequate furniture, fixtures, linen and AC. • Bathroom carpet area should admeasure at least 4 sq.mtrs • Attached toilets for each Dormitory / Room: Bathroom fittings should be of branded company with ISI mark. • Should have telephone with STD facility. • Internet and wifi facility must be available in all rooms. • Should have a separate public toilets for men and women and first aid centre • The following facilities must be provided for:

o Front Desk o Visitors sitting area and lobby o Tourism info booth o Souvenir Shop o For every three lettable rooms one car parking must be provided of

minimum 5 sq. mtrs. o Free internet service for all guests. o All rooms should have telephone connectivity

• At least one electrician, plumber, sweeper, etc to be available for general service and maintenance on a 24 hrs basis.

• 24 hrs security and CCTV surveillance at reception and corridors. At least one female security personnel must be present at all times.

• Power back up system is to be provided in the entire facility to provide uninterrupted power supply for all the appliances in the facility

• 24 hour uninterrupted hot and cold water supply. • Provision of well lit, dedicated visitor parking area is to be provided in the facility

for parking of tourist vehicles. These areas should be paved and fenced to suit the type of facility. These areas should have security to ensure safety of the vehicles

• Staff should be in uniform, well groomed and properly trained. Number of workers should be proportionate to the capacity of the unit in all services provided.

• Staffs should be trained local residents specialised in the respective fields of operation

• Staff should be hospitable and capable to effectively respond to Tourist requirements and should have a fair idea of the places of tourist interest in the State.



• Front desk staff should be well versed in English and other regional languages to communicate with tourists from different regions of the country and abroad

There should be provision of solid waste management with incinerators and rain water harvesting. Additional incentives will be given for provision of STP, green energy etc.

d. Requirements for Dormitories:

Other requirements specified by DoT for availing incentives for Dormitories under these

guidelines are as follows:

• Dormitory should be gender specific and constructed as part of Yatri Nivas. Dormitories by themselves will not be considered a tourism product. • There should not be more than 12 beds in 1 dormitory room with adequate furniture, fixtures and linen. • A standard of space requirement of 5 sq.mtrs per person must be maintained while building a dormitory. For example if the dormitory capacity is 12 beds the dormitory carpet area must be at least 60 sq. mtrs • Each dormitory room should have attached shower rooms (3 nos.) and toilets (4 nos, including 1 toilet for differently abled persons). If the number of beds in a dormitory is less than 12 the number of shower rooms and toilets can be relaxed proportionality. Shower/Toilet/Bathroom carpet area should admeasure at least 3 sq. mtrs. All bathroom fittings should be of branded company with ISI mark.

e. Incentives and Concessions:

To encourage the development of these facilities, DoT offers special incentives/concessions that are set out in various sections and clauses of the guidelines.

The applicants are requested to refer to: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and





category.



11) Guidelines for development of Youth Hostels

a. Introduction

The Department of Tourism envisages 210 million tourists visiting the State by 2024, compared to 100 million tourists visiting currently (Based on KTVG Report 2014). These tourists need quality, comfortable and safe accommodation catering to all income groups. This requires augmentation of tourist accommodation facilities across the states through various means such as hotels, homestays, Yatri Niwas, dormitories and hostels. These guidelines have been proposed to assist and facilitate in development of quality and affordable Youth Hostels in the state with the intent to provide young tourists an affordable, comfortable and convenient option for accommodation. Youth Hostels are targeted towards young people particularly students who are unable to afford expensive hotels. Clean, safe and affordable youth hostels will provided a unique opportunity for young travellers to experience Karnataka and India. Youth hostels will encourage young students in schools and university to learn through experiential tourism.

b. Eligibility

DoT intends to develop the Youth Hostels by assisting/ facilitating private entrepreneurs / franchisees. These entities could be: • NGOs, Educational Institutes, Sports Academy, and Associations etc can take up

the development and management. • Priority will be given to those entities which are:

o Already in the tourism sector with a prior expertise in operations and management of similar projects.

o Owners of Land suitable for development of such facilities around the identified tourist destinations. However a partnership between land owners and the above mentioned entities will be given higher priority.

o Priority for incentive will be based on location as determined by DoT.


Other requirements for availing incentives for Youth Hostels under these guidelines include: • Youth hostel should be built on minimum 2 acres of land. • Rooms can be single, double or on triple occupancy basis. Single, double and triple

rooms should have minimum carpet area of 10 sq.mtrs, 12sq.mtrs and 16 sq.mtrs respectively.

• If a youth hostel has dormitories the requirements for dormitories will also apply.



• There must be a minimum of 15 rooms (single, double, triple or dormitory would all be considered as a single room) with a capacity of atleast 30 persons and all rooms should have attached bathrooms.

• Rooms should have adequate furniture, fixtures and linen. • Bathroom carpet area should admeasure at least 4 sq.mtrs • Bathroom fittings should be of branded company with ISI mark. • Should have a dining hall with a canteen / mess With sufficient capacity • Should have separate public toilets for men and women and first aid centre • Provision of anodised aluminium/wooden doors and windows • Provision of well lit, dedicated visitor parking area should be provided in the facility

for parking of tourist vehicles. These areas should be paved and fenced to suit the type of facility. These areas should also have security to ensure safety of the vehicles.

• The following facilities should be provided for: o Recreation Room o Front Desk o Visitors sitting area and lobby o Tourism info booth o Souvenir Shop o Free internet service for all guests. o Parking for atleast 4 cars and 2 buses for every 30 persons o All rooms should have telephone connectivity

• At least one electrician, plumber, sweeper, etc should be available for general service and maintenance on a 24 hrs basis.

• 24 hrs security and CCTV surveillance at reception, corridors and all entry and exit points should be provided. At least one female security personnel should be present at all times.

• Power back up system should be provided in the entire facility to provide uninterrupted power supply for all the appliances in the facility.

• Provision of 24 hour uninterrupted hot and cold water supply is essential • Staff should be in uniform, well groomed and properly trained. Number of workers

should be proportionate to the capacity of the unit in all services provided • Staffs should be trained local residents specialised in the respective fields of

operation • Staff should be hospitable and capable of responding effectively to Tourist

requirements and should have a fair idea of the places of tourist interest in the State.

• Front desk staff should be well versed in English and other regional languages to communicate with tourists from different regions of the country and abroad.

• There should be provision of solid waste management with incinerators and rain water harvesting. Additional incentives would be given for provision of STP, green energy etc.



d. Requirements for Dormitories Other requirements for availing incentives for Dormitories under this policy include: • Dormitory should be gender specific and constructed as part of Youth Hostels.

Dormitories by themselves will not be considered a tourism product. • There should not be more than 12 beds in 1 dormitory room with adequate

furniture, fixtures and linen. • A standard of space requirement of 5 sq.mtrs per person must be maintained while

building a dormitory. For example if the dormitory capacity is 12 beds the dormitory carpet area must be at least 60 sq. mtrs

• Each dormitory room should have attached shower rooms (3 nos.) and toilets (4 nos, including 1 toilet for differently abled persons). If the number of beds in a dormitory is less than 12 the number of shower rooms and toilets can be relaxed proportionality. Shower/Toilet/Bathroom carpet area should admeasure at least 3 sq. mtrs. All bathroom fittings should be of branded company with ISI mark.


To promote development of these facilities, DoT is offering certain incentives and concessions that are set out in various sections of these guidelines.


for availing Incentives for the tourism related projects and services. • Annexure 1 for classification of towns/ cities in Karnataka for the purpose of availing

incentives. • Annexure 2 for eligibility for availing incentives and concessions under this category.



12) Guidelines for developing Interpretation Centres, Tourist Information Centre and Kiosks

a. Introduction Karnataka is gifted with myriad options of natural endowment ranging from mystical hill stations to serene beaches. It is home to several forts, architectural marvels and is blessed with rich heritage of over 1500 years. The experiences generated by visual arts, culture and heritage of Karnataka are unique. Other diverse and vibrant aspects of Karnataka tourism products include pilgrim, coastal, wildlife, pristine, and scenic to offer to its tourists. The state has also made rapid strides in Eco Tourism, Wellness Tourism – Alternate Lifestyle/ Yoga, Voluntary Tourism and Adventure Tourism. Over the years, Karnataka has emerged as a knowledge and technology capital of the country, making rapid strides in the new economy as well. IT and related industries, bio-technology and strong research, and development institutions have placed Karnataka as a strong contender in the global market, leading to Business tourism emerging as a strong tourism product. In the given scenario, there is great need for development of Tourist Information Centers, Interpretation Centers and Information Kiosks to assist and sensitize tourists visiting the state. In order to project the various facets of the State to large number of visitors, there is a strong urge to develop visitor centres to assist the tourists in planning their visits and having a holistic experience. A Tourist Information Center (TIC) is a dedicated space within a building for interpretive displays, programs, services, and information. TICs generally have support facilities and conveniences for the travelling public and provide the necessary information for visitors to have a safe and enjoyable visit. An Interpretation Centre is a space where a combination of educational activities designed to reveal meanings and relationships through the use of presentations, original objects, firsthand experience, graphic illustrations, activities, or media designed to help people understand, appreciate, and care for the natural and cultural environment. The primary purpose of an Interpretation center is to provide interpretive and educational information to the visitors (including those with physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments) about tourism in Karnataka, its diverse products, culture, heritage, the various tourist projects/ destinations and its facilities, visitor security and safety, the geographic area where the project is located, and the cultural and natural resources of the area. The interpretive objectives of Interpretation centres are to enhance the public’s understanding of tourism & its contribution to the State, understanding of the archaeological, historical, human-made, natural, and cultural features of the State which should lead to:

o Developing public appreciation for the proper and safe use of project

resources;

o Fostering the spirit of personal stewardship of public lands;

o Orienting the visitor to the tourism destinations, products and its

recreational opportunities; and



o Aiding project personnel in accomplishing management objectives

b. Eligibility

DoT intends to develop the Tourist Information Centers, Interpretation Centers and Information Kiosks by assisting/ facilitating interested entities. These entities could be: • NGOs, Educational Institutes, private entrepreneurs, Government Agencies, Trusts

and Associations etc can take up the development and management. • Priority will be given to those entities which are: • Already in the tourism sector with a prior expertise in operations and management

of similar projects. • Owners of Land suitable for development of such facilities around the identified

tourist destinations. However a partnership between land owners and the above mentioned entities will be given higher priority.

• Priority for incentive will be based on location as determined by DoT

c. Requirements for Tourist Information Centre

Other requirements for availing incentives for Tourist Information Centre under this policy

include:

• The intention of setting up of the TIC is to provide quick information to the visitors on the region, attractions, timings, availability of amenities etc. Hence the entities having prior experience of setting up and operating such centres with the help of the locals would be given preference.

• The entities would need to exhibit capability of designing the centres keeping in mind tourism security and crime prevention principles such that the centre facility is functional, aesthetically pleasing and tourist friendly.

• The centre proposed/designed by the entities would need to meet the following minimum criteria-

o Well designed centre of atleast 10 m x 10 m size which would make the visitors feel welcome and safe without necessitating formation of long queues of visitors exposing them to potential hazards

o Provision of monitored security cameras in vulnerable areas like corners, entrance/exits, blind corners etc.

o Sufficient safety aspects should be incorporated in planning and designing of windows/doors to avoid any kind of harm from projectiles during public unrest or similar situations

o Should have provisions for well lit, quiet and functional spaces including rest-rooms, public phones, nursing rooms etc. in the public area

o Hallways should be designed with consideration for both rescue and evacuation needs, along with minimum accessibility requirements

o No restricted area in the TIC should have an access to the general public



o Should exhibit an efficient functional planning having physically separated public and non-public areas (including employee work areas, storage rooms, or any area that is not intended for public access)

o Where access control screening has been deemed necessary, it should be performed by trained personnel, with proper access screening equipment, and supported by written procedures

• As personal service would be the main motto of the TIC, employees and contractors who come in regular contact with visitors should wear visible identification badges/cards and provide impartial services to all the tourists/visitors

• The entities must demonstrate a well trained workforce with experienced advisors having the ability to interpret body language, probe to find out what people really want, help plan itineraries, give advice and make recommendations, explain how to get there with the aid of a map etc.

• The TIC must have in place an efficient information management system including a comprehensive database of visitors, places, facilities etc.

• Each TIC must have a master plan that addresses the visitor center facilities and program requirements, including compliance with accessibility standards. The master plan must address each of the items listed below: o An inventory and analysis of current visitors and projected visitation levels; o An inventory and analysis of existing resources to be interpreted in the

visitor center; o The layout of the visitor center; o Interpretive themes and goals and a description of the method that will be

used to achieve effective communication; o Detailed recommendations for proposed interpretive exhibits and programs

(universally accessible for persons with mobility, hearing, speech, sight, or cognitive disabilities);

o A staffing plan to operate the visitor center, taking into consideration whether, and how, volunteers will be used;

o Equipment needed to support exhibits and programs; o Budget required for operation and management; o Use of fees, if authorized; o Any partnerships supporting the visitor center; o Visitor center review schedules; and o Security measures and procedures at the visitor center, including any

necessary physical and technical upgrades.

d. Requirements for Tourist Interpretation Centre

Other requirements for availing incentives for Tourist Interpretation Centre under this

policy include:



• The Interpretation centers should provide routine, non-sensitive information regarding the tourism offerings in Karnataka, recreation opportunities, and cultural and natural resources to the public. If available, this information should be provided to visitors in alternative formats to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. Consideration needs to be given to the information being communicated while determining effective formats to be developed and used to communicate with the public.

• The interpretation center and equipment used in relation to it, both inside the center and on the surrounding grounds, are subject to the highest standards of maintenance. All equipment used in interpretation centers must be selected for dependability, ease of maintenance, accessibility, longevity, and low operating cost. For equipment that is critical to the visitor’s experience, a backup must be on hand, if possible.

• Audio and visual equipment purchased or upgraded must be highly dependable, fully accessible, off-the-shelf equipment that can be easily and cost effectively maintained, repaired, or replaced.

• Interpretation centers and their exhibits should be formally reviewed once every 5 years by the agency appointed by the Department of Tourism. The purpose of the review should be to ensure that all facilities are safe, secure, accessible, and adequate; equipments are in operating condition; and audiovisual presentations, photographs, taped messages, and other interpretive materials are accurate, current, and communicated effectively. The review team should prepare a report that details its findings, including any recommendations for facility improvements or repairs or for updating exhibits. The official directly responsible for managing the Interpretation center would be responsible for determining what actions to take, in consultation with the regional office and review team, as a result of the review.

• Items made available to the public may be sold, where authorized. Examples of appropriate sale items include project memorabilia, educational materials, maps, food and beverages, film, and other customary supplies to support a safe and enjoyable recreation visit.

• Interpretation centers, tour routes, and other public access areas should be periodically assessed for security-related risks. Public and non-public access areas and applicable physical security measures to separate those areas. o Tour and evacuation routes and assembly points. o Parking areas/structures. o Lighting and signage. o The type of information that is presented to the public. o Security and standard operating procedures for visitor management. o Facility Security Plan coverage of visitor security. o Integration of security procedures with the Emergency Action Plan. o Tour guide and security officers familiarity of emergency procedures

• The other planning and designing criteria for the Interpretation Centre would be same as TIC (except that the minimum size of the centre should be 80m x80m)




The applicants are requested to refer to: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and

applying for availing Incentives for the tourism related projects and services. • Annexure 1 for classification of towns/ cities in Karnataka for the purpose of

availing incentives. • Annexure 2 for eligibility for availing incentives and concessions under this

category.



13) Guidelines for Media, Communication and Promotional Activities

a. Introduction The development of tourism cannot be realized in the absence of promotion activities. Marketing is a vital tool to build successful tourism. Print Media and Electronic media are essential in promoting tourism products and services, to highlight the exceptional tourism opportunities that Karnataka has to offer. Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka (DoT) intends to incentivize any such initiatives through media, communication and promotional activities targeted to promote tourism related activities and services.

b. Eligibility Individuals, printing and publishing houses, Community based organizations, NGOs, trusts, entities involved in tourism wanting to promote their tourism products/services, corporate and private sector are all eligible for the incentives. They include the following: • Tourist Guides

• Tourist Maps

• Travel and Tourism Books

• Information brochures and Pamphlets

• Coffee table books

The following electronic media will be eligible for incentives. • Blogs and Websites

• Audio Guides

• Documentaries


DoT has defined certain other requirements for the applicant to be eligible for subsidy. They are identified as follows: • The content of the print media/ electronic media should promote and generate

awareness on tourism in Karnataka.

• The material should pertain exclusively to Karnataka or to destinations that are in

Karnataka.

• Information produced in the media should be accurate and verified.

• Coffee table books and Documentaries, besides covering n tourist destinations,

should also focus on global topics of Karnataka such as its flora, fauna, heritage,



festivals, and local culture to stimulate readers and develop the demand for tourist

products and services.

• Specific Requirements for Tourist Maps and Guides: Standardised tourist guides

and maps should be made available to the tourists as these are the first and

foremost tools that would be utilised by visitors to acquaint themselves with the

tourism features that Karnataka has to offer.

o Maps should be north aligned and show location of all tourist locations

identified by DoT.

o Additional facilities such as coffee shops, public toilets, public transport,

police stations, etc should also be highlighted in the maps

o Maps and guides should provide accurate information on destinations including

timings and entry fee for the tourist facility wherever applicable.

o These should be regularly updated to provide latest/accurate information.

o Audio Guides: There is abundant scope for usage of audio guides at tourist

destinations, information centres, interpretation centres etc. Hence, the

content for these audio guides should have clarity and should be prepared

keeping in mind the place and purpose for which they would l be used

o Audio guides should be available in English, Kannada and Hindi as a basic

minimum requirement at the tourist destination.

o All audio guides must be accompanied with the corresponding print materials.


To invite competent entities to bid enter this segment, DoT has formulated incentives and concessions which are set out in various sections of this Policy. • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and



availing incentives. Initiatives undertaken for category (ies) A and B will be given

priority for providing incentives.


category. Please note that the incentives under this category will be provided in a

lump sum. If the entity applying for incentives has other sponsorships or grants

these must be declared during the registration/application process. Failing to do so

would attract penalties and revoke the provided incentives. The amount of subsidy

given will be at the discretion of the Approving Authority(s).



14) Guidelines for Event based tourism

a. Introduction Events can be defined as experiences that are unique, as they have the ability to create time and space to convey specific objectives for a specific audience (Gonzalez & Morales, 2009). Events can, stimulate tourism competitiveness particularly in backward regions. The use of events as a local and regional development strategy requires efficient management and the support of a proper tourism policy, to result in positive impact for local communities. Interesting strategies need to be developed to develop events as tourism products. The singularity, uniqueness, authenticity and local participation of Karnataka needs to be tapped to develop exceptional Event based tourism products.

b. Eligibility Department of Tourism (GoK) intends to incentivize any such initiatives targeted to promote tourism related activities and services through events based tourism products by assisting/ facilitating interested entities. These entities could be: • Individuals, event organizers, Community based organizations, NGOs, trusts ,art and

culture foundations, Non-profits, youth associations, student groups and clubs, theatre

troupes, etc. are all eligible for the incentives.

• Apart from the above, the following print media will be eligible for incentives.

o Festivals

o Fairs

o Theatre and cinema

o Concerts

o Light and Sound Shows

o Cultural festivals

• Events in destinations that fall under Category A/B taluka (please refer to Annexure 1)

and involve local communities will be given priority.

• Priority will be given to entities with prior experience in event based tourism to

develop new event based tourism products.

• Entities with existing events that satisfy all requirements can also apply for the

incentive after registration.

• Youth oriented events such as University cultural festivals and rock concerts, etc can

also apply for incentive.

• The amount of incentive given will be at the discretion of the government. Tourist

footfall generated as a result of the event, community participation and uniqueness of



the event will be considered while determining incentives. Please refer to incentives

and concession in Annexure 2 to determine the maximum eligible incentive amount.


Other general requirements have been identified by DoT for the applicant to be eligible for

incentives. These are set out below:

• The event must generate interest and increase footfall from domestic and international

tourists.

• All events should link to local community.

• Frequency, duration, timings and description of the event should be clearly stated. An

estimate of annual tourist footfalls that the event will generate should be provided.

• Provisions need to be made for safety and Security of the tourists present at all events.

• There must be provision for parking of cars and buses during the event in the

following ratio

o for every 4 persons there must be one car parking available; and

o for every 60 persons 1 bus parking must be provided.

The parking area must be easily accessible from the main road and there should be

clear signage indicating entry and exit points.

• Hygiene, Responsible Standards, Environment Friendly Practices: Responsible tourism

friendly policy should be adopted for sustainable growth Use of eco-friendly practices

and local products should be encouraged. There should be a provision within the

facility for segregation of garbage into biodegradable (kitchen waste etc), non-bio-

degradable (thermo coal products, aluminum foil, cigarette stubs, etc) & recyclable

(newspapers, bottles, cans etc) material. Two standard pattern garbage covered

receptacles / bins for bio-degradable and non-degradable waste should be provided.

• Festivals and Fair: All products sold at festivals and fairs should be sourced from

Karnataka and result in economic benefit to the local community.

• Light and sound show: The content of Light and sound show must be historic in

nature pertaining to the destination/ historic building where it is held. All prior

clearances needed must be procured in advance from the respective authorities.

e. Incentives and Concessions






incentives. Initiatives undertaken for category (ies) A and B will be given priority for

providing incentives.


Please note that the incentives under this category will be provided in a lump sum. If

the entity applying for incentives has other sponsorships or grants these must be

declared during the registration/application process. Failing to do will incur penalties

and revoke the provided incentives. The amount of subsidy given will be at the

discretion of the government.



15) Guidelines for Heritage Trails and Nature Trails

a. Background

Karnataka has immense potential for development of Heritage trails as well as Natural trails. The Government believes that heritage Trails are a way of encouraging people to get the best out of visiting environments of particular cultural, natural, social and historical interest. Similarly, a nature trail through a forest, wildlife preserve, beach, etc could be specifically designed to provide opportunities for observing and learning about flora and fauna, understanding the eco-system, appreciation of nature and local culture and practices. Apart from the various possible trails around the tourist destinations, Department of Tourism (DoT), GoK intends to develop heritage and nature trails in the following areas on a priority basis:

• Leverage Mysore’s potential brand (‘Royal Heritage city’) identity with better

connectivity from Bangalore and positioning the Bangalore Palace to Mysore Palace

road through Kanakapura as the Royal trail, including local historical trails such as

Srirangapatna.

• Heritage trails around the Devanahalli fort, Bangalore

• Jungle trails through Cauvery Valley and the Dandeli Forest. b. Eligibility

Department of Tourism (GoK) intends to incentivize development of heritage trails and nature trails to promote tourism by assisting/ facilitating interested entities in developing such trails. These entities could be:

• Individual Entrepreneurs or a company. Trained guides / naturalist should be present in

the group or be employed.

• The Trail should have been in operation for at least one year from the date of

application, to avail government subsidy. Accreditation for the trail would be carried

out via the e-portal. �

�


Other general requirements for the applicant to be eligible for incentives are:

�• All Trail rails should be guided. Every group must be accompanied by a certified guide /

naturalist. Guide /naturalist to tourist ratio should be 1 for every 10 persons in a

group.



• Group size should not exceed 20 persons per trail. Atleast a minimum number of 15

trails per year must be conducted to be considered for subsidy.

• Transportation must be included as part of the trail if it is not a walking trail.

• Trails should incorporate plaques or signs on particular structures to provide additional

information. There should be a sign indicating the starting point of the trail.

• Trails should be thematic to target the interest of certain groups.

• A trail designed to arouse interest in conservation could include a number of

conserved buildings and places, with accompanying material on the local history,

architectural forms, conservation practice, etc.

• If a heritage trail is created for a specific user group, the presentation of that trail

would have to be designed to cater to the interests of that group. For example, a

guided tour for senior citizens should be undertaken at a relaxed pace, with frequent

rest stops and a large degree of audience participation.

• The trail should be accompanied by information kits, preferably with an audio guide.

o At the starting point of the trail, the following facilities should be provided:

o drinking water

o changing room

o toilets

o Provision should be made for all of the above mentioned facilities, except

changing rooms, after every 4 kms of the trail. For nature trails, the facilities

should be made of eco-friendly materials that are harmonious with the

surroundings.

• A Trail brochure should be prepared as promotional material to inform tourists of the

nature of the trail.

• The brochure should contain the following information:

o Length/ duration of the trail and means of transport

o Contents and theme of the trail.

o Transportation information.

o Information on how to reach the starting point of the trail.

o Timings for the trail Map of the trail: Maps are a simple and effective way of

showing the configuration of the trail and should be included in the brochure

with attention to the following details.

• They should preferably be drawn by a draftsperson and should show a north point

facing up the page. Additionally for a nature trail, satellite could be used to develop the

map.

• Show the start and end location of the tour along with all rest points along the trail.

• Identify and number each item / point of interest in the trail

• Show the location of car parks, cafes and public toilets for heritage walks. Nature trail



Must mark location of geographical features and

• Regular capacity building sessions will be provided free of cost by the government to

the guides.

• At the end of the trail, feedback from the tourist should be obtained through

questionnaires.

d. Additional Requirements for Nature Trails

Since nature trails are often identified in protected habitats, it is important that the trail is

sustainable. The following requirements should be met and sustainability assessment would

need to be carried out to

• �Support current and future use with minimal impact to the area’s natural systems.

• Produce negligible soil loss or movement while allowing vegetation to inhabit the area.

• Recognize that pruning or removal of certain plants may be necessary for proper trail

construction and maintenance.

• Should not adversely affect the area’s wildlife.

• Minimal rerouting and trail maintenance.

• Areas of wet or poorly drained soils should be avoided.

�• All permits should be obtained prior to application. For nature trails if the trail is

through a protected area, all requirements under eco-tourism should be complied

with.

e. Incentives and Concessions

Various incentives and concessions have been worked out by DoT to encourage entities participating in this concept, in various sections and clauses of these guidelines. The applicants are requested to refer to: • Section 4 of this policy for details related to procedure for Registration and applying



incentives. Initiatives undertaken for category (ies) A and B will be given priority for

providing incentives.


Please note that the incentives under this category will be provided in a lump sum. If

the entity applying for incentives has other sponsorships or grants these must be

declared during the registration/application process. Failing to do will incur penalties

and revoke the provided incentives. The amount of subsidy given will be at the

discretion of the government.

117 | P a g e M a r c h 2 0 1 4
