The Hindu Business Line : Karnataka to be made world-class tourism destination: CM

He said, "my Government is committed to support the sector and let me assure you that I would leave no stone unturned to make Karnataka into a world-class tourism destination."

He said, "We are working very closely with the Central Government to develop tourism-related infrastructure like road side facilities, roads leading to tourism destinations and airports."

Inaugurating a two-day Karnataka Tourism Expo 2006 in Mysore on Monday, Mr Kumaraswamy said the State Government has decided to develop an integrated International Convention Centre close to the Devanhalli International Airport with a seating capacity of 5,000.

Ms Shantakumari, Principal Secretary, Information, Tourism and Youth Services said the State was keen to promote mining tourism to attract more visitors.

She indicated that the loss-making Kolar Gold Mines, which remains closed since 2001, would be selected for the pilot project.

Private participation

The State Government plans to capitalise on the 100-year old mines by roping in private participation to bring in tourists from within the country and abroad to provide a glimpse of the way in which mining was done and in the process bring Kolar in the tourism map of the State.

The Kolar gold fields, which had a great British influence were also known as Little England.

Kolar also boasts of a 180-acre golf course, which could be upgraded to attract tourists.

Modernise key circuits

Mr S.N. Agarwal, Chairman, FICCI Karnataka State Council suggested the need for modernising and redefining key circuits to remain competitive and attractive as a destination.

He also felt aggressive marketing and improved connectivity by creating more airports, river cruises and coastal luxury train services would give a fillip to tourism in the State.