HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition, the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) is all set to return with its second edition. This premier travel and tourism event will take place from 26 – 28 February 2025, showcasing Karnataka as a vibrant and diverse global tourism hub.
Sri H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, Tourism, Government of Karnataka, unveiled the KITE – 2025 logo along with brochures at the curtain-raiser event organized at Vidhana Soudha. Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka; Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka; Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation; Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), along with the office bearers of KTS and other officials, were present on the occasion.
Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and the ‘Karnataka Tourism Society,’ KITE 2025 promises to be a platform that brings together stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality industries. The event aims to foster new partnerships, promote business opportunities, and spotlight Karnataka’s unique offerings, including its heritage, culture, adventure, wellness, and nature-based tourism.
Key Highlights of KITE 2025:
Speaking about the event, Sri HK Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, law and Parliament Affairs, Govt. of Karnataka,said, “Karnataka is home to a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to travelers of all kinds. The second edition of KITE reflects our commitment to positioning Karnataka as a top-tier destination on the global tourism map while driving economic growth through tourism partnerships. The ‘Karnataka International Travel Expo’ underscores our dedication to showcasing Karnataka as a world-class tourism destination. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, pristine nature, and adventure opportunities, our state has something unique to offer every traveler. This Expo will not only strengthen B2B collaborations but also reinforce Karnataka’s position on the global tourism map.”
Major National and State level Trade and hospitality associations including the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India, Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India (ADTOI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), India Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), BCIC, FKCCI, FHRAI, Karnataka Tourism Forum, Enterprising Agents Association of India (ETAA), SKAL, South India Hotel and Restaurant Association (SIHRA), Travel Agent Federation of India (TAFI), etc. are among the many support the event.
Organizing events like the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) as a hosted buyer B2B event benefits Karnataka as a tourism destination in multiple ways:
1. Enhancing Global Visibility
2. Facilitating Business Opportunities
3. Driving Tourism Revenue and Employment
• Boosting the Local Economy: Increased tourism leads to higher spending on accommodations, dining, transport, and local attractions, benefiting communities across the state.
4. Promoting Lesser-Known Destinations
• Diversifying Tourism Offerings: KITE 2025 allows Karnataka to spotlight offbeat destinations and new circuits, reducing pressure on established tourist spots while attracting niche travelers.
5. Strengthening Karnataka’s Brand as a Travel Hub
• Positioning as a Preferred Destination: Events like, KITE 2025 help establish Karnataka as a go-to destination for business and leisure travelers, reinforcing its position on the global tourism map.
• Promoting Investment in Tourism Infrastructure: The increased visibility attracts investments in hospitality, transport, and other sectors, improving the overall tourism experience.
Participation is open to tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hotel chains, and other tourism-related businesses seeking to explore and invest in Karnataka’s flourishing tourism sector.
Key Features:
Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka said “The Karnataka International Travel Expo is more than just an event—it is a celebration of Karnataka’s immense tourism potential. By bringing together stakeholders from across the globe, we aim to facilitate meaningful dialogue, foster innovation, and ensure sustainable growth in the tourism sector. We look forward to welcoming partners and participants to this dynamic platform.”
Dr. KV. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation said “On behalf of the State of Karnataka, I extend a warm invitation to all to join us at the Karnataka International Travel Expo 2025. As organizers, we are deeply committed to showcasing the unique tourism products and services of Karnataka to a global audience. This premier event is a vital platform for fostering meaningful relationships between the global travel trade and our state’s tourism stakeholders. Together, we aim to position Karnataka as a leading destination on the global tourism map, while celebrating our rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy.”
Mr. K Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Societyadded “The Karnataka International Travel Expo has proven to be a game-changer for the tourism industry in our state. By providing a dedicated platform for stakeholders to network, collaborate, and showcase their offerings to a global audience, the event has significantly enhanced business opportunities across sectors. From promoting lesser-known destinations to driving footfalls at established landmarks, KITE 2025 continues to create a ripple effect, boosting the livelihoods of countless individuals and businesses in Karnataka’s tourism ecosystem.”
