Hampi, Mysuru and Lakkundi Selected for Global Destination Development

On 7 July 2026, the Karnataka government decided to recommend Hampi, Mysuru and Lakkundi to the Union Tourism Ministry for the Global Destination Development project. The proposal was finalised after a state-level consultation meeting held in Hampi on 6-7 July 2026.

Global Destination Development Project

The Global Destination Development project is a tourism development initiative that seeks to create world-class tourism centres through cooperation between state governments and the private sector. The Union Tourism Ministry will take the final decision after examining the proposal sent by Karnataka.

Funding and Development Plan

The selected destinations are expected to receive central assistance of ₹800 crore in two phases. The first phase has an allocation of ₹500 crore, and the second phase has an allocation of ₹300 crore. The development plan includes world-class infrastructure, improved connectivity, enhanced tourist facilities, heritage conservation, sustainable development and private investment. These components are part of tourism planning for heritage and cultural destinations in India.

Hampi, Mysuru and Lakkundi

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka and is associated with the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. Mysuru is a major cultural and tourism centre in Karnataka, and Lakkundi is known for its temple architecture and heritage structures. The plan for Hampi includes scientific documentation and digital preservation of monuments, while Hampi and Ballari railway stations are proposed for redevelopment as heritage stations. The proposal also includes an international interpretation centre and a tourism college.

Important Facts for Exams

• Hampi was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
• The Vijayanagara Empire made Hampi one of the most important historical capitals in South India.
• Lakkundi in Karnataka is known for Chalukyan temples and stepped wells.
• Heritage station redevelopment is a tourism-linked infrastructure model used for historic locations.

Tourism and Heritage Context

Heritage tourism includes travel to sites of historical, architectural and cultural value. UNESCO World Heritage Sites are places recognised for outstanding universal value under the World Heritage Convention of 1972.