Karnataka Tourism department’s ‘Year of the Wild’ campaign in 2017 has received positive response.

“Through the campaign, the occupancy went up across most properties. The overall bed nights of all the properties of Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR) has increased by 9.6 per cent as compared to 2016-17,” said Priyank Kharge, Karnataka Minister for IT, BT, and Tourism.

“Also there has been a tremendous response for the newly started Jungle Camps and Trails aimed at the budget travellers. Here, the occupancy has gone up to 98 per cent. Overall, the revenues of JLR have increased by 5 per cent,” he said.

Karnataka was declared ‘Year of the Wild’ in 2017 and had aggressively marketed across the tourism industry in trade fairs, marketing communications and outdoor advertising.

The State boasts over 27 wildlife sanctuaries/national parks. The department’s objective was not limited to wildlife, but celebrated the many diverse terrains and landscapes — mountains, beaches, fertile plains, among others.

The State also promoted adventure sports and other outdoor activities like sky diving, motorcycling, eco treks, and wildlife watching.

“We celebrated Karnataka’s ‘wild’ side, aimed at preserving the environment while engaging with the local economy. It is designed for tourists who not only want to explore the nature and its wild best, but also enjoy adventure and activities,” said Anil Kumar, Karnataka Secretary, Tourism Department.

‘Inclusive development’

Kharge said: “We wanted to celebrate Karnataka’s wild side, and its host of activities — on land, water and in the sky. Karnataka’s jagged coastline, the Western Ghats with its majestic peaks, expansive water bodies and the many rivers that criss-cross the State make it perfect for a holiday. The themes we select reflect the ethos. ‘Year of the Wild’ programme looked at inclusive development of tourism sector and all the people involved.”

During 2017, JLR, a pioneer of eco tourism in the country with the largest chain of resorts, also expanded their portfolio. Anejhari Butterfly Camp, Seethanadi Nature Camp, Bhagawathi Nature Camp and Sakrebyle Elephant Camp, were some of the new destinations.

Along with JLR, KSTDC properties including the Golden Chariot did well. “This was done to increase inbound tourism — both domestic and foreign — and to highlight the diverse range of destinations available in the State,” said Anil Kumar.

Additionally, the Tourism Department teamed up with State Forest Department to introduce new eco trails and forest treks in Skandagiri, Savanadurga, Makalidurga, Siddarabetta, Bidarakatte, Pushpagiri, Talacauvery, Makutta, and Srimangala. Specially trained guides and forest officers led the walks, and gave travellers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

comment COMMENT NOW