Tourism takes a hit in Mysuru and Chikkamagaluru as Kodagu enjoys New Year boom

Mysuru: The tourism sector in Mysuru and Chikkamagaluru districts has suffered a significant setback following recent state govt decisions to ban certain tourism-related activities in forest border areas due to rising human-animal conflict. The restrictions, coming ahead of the year-end season, have sharply affected the districts that largely depend on forest-based tourism, while neighbouring Kodagu district is witnessing a surge in tourist inflow.

In Mysuru district, the govt's move to suspend safaris in the Bandipur and Nagarahole tiger reserves has led to a steep decline in advance bookings at resorts and hotels located near the forest areas.


A similar downturn is being seen in Chikkamagaluru district, where restrictions on climbing the Mullayanagiri peak have resulted in a sharp fall in tourist arrivals, dealing a heavy blow to homestays and related services.

The New Year season usually draws large crowds to destinations around Bandipur and Nagarahole, driven by safari bookings and nature-based attractions. However, industry representatives say this year presents a grim picture, with widespread cancellations and negligible fresh bookings.

CA Jayakumar, president of the Mysuru chapter of SKAL International, and BS Prashanth, president of the Mysuru Travels Association, expressed concern over the uncertainty gripping the sector. "When tourists ask what they can see in Mysuru during this season, there is very little to offer," Prashanth said.

He pointed out that while the popular Maagi festival is usually organised in front of the Mysuru Palace during the year-end, tourism stakeholders were not informed in advance this year. "This lack of communication has only added to our difficulties," he said, questioning the impact of large events that lack proper publicity. "Such programmes mostly attract locals and do not benefit the tourism industry," he added.

Jayakumar noted that some tourists avoiding forest destinations are opting to stay within the city.

Chikkamagaluru faces a similar challenge. NR Tejasvi, president of the Chikkamagaluru Homestay Association, said the Mullayanagiri restrictions have severely impacted tourist footfall, affecting homestays and allied businesses.

In contrast, Kodagu district is preparing for a bumper New Year season. Hotels and homestays across the district are already reporting full occupancy.

BG Ananthashayana, board director of the Coorg Homestay Association, said the year-end period is expected to usher in a strong revival for tourism. "The industry is gearing up to welcome a record number of visitors," he said.



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