Demand for home stays in DK on the rise

Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada district has numerous opportunities for tourism and presently, there is a demand for home stays in the district. About 2 years ago, there were only 2 home stays in the district but currently, there are 25. One home stay each in Dharmasthala and Moodbidri, 2 in Bantwal and Belthangady each and 19 official home stays in Mangaluru of which, 5 are located beside the beach.

It may be noted that the number of tourists visiting the district has also increased since the last three years. In 2016 – 17, it was one crore which increased to 1.2 crore in 2017 – 18, followed by 1.4 crore in 2018 – 19 and already it has crossed 1 crore in 2019 till now. The demand for beach home stay is more.

Permit from the tourism department

To start a home stay, the tourism department gives a permit valid for 5 years and the registration charge for the same is Rs 500. The room provided to the tourists must have the minimum limit of 2 persons to a maximum limit of 5 persons. An NOC from the police station and local administration body is mandatory. If within the limits of MCC, then the same is required from the city police commissioner and the corporation. If located outside, NOC is required from the SP and any local administration body like the municipality.

Care should be taken to provide no scope for any illegal activity. Rooms may be provided to any tourists only after getting an ID proof from the tourist. The details regarding the tourist staying at the home stay must be noted in a register book as well as on the computer.

Demand for rural design

The tourists visiting the coast wish to stay at home stays which have a traditional feel like the Guttina Mane. Thus, there is a greater demand for home stays that give the feel of the local tradition.

The state government is providing greater importance for coastal tourism. More people are coming forward to create home stays. We are holding discussions on the government level to provide even more encouragement – Kota Srinivas Poojary, District In-Charge Minister

Along with home stays, I have asked the concerned officials to create a plan for the development of tourism in the coast. We will be creating a comprehensive plan for the development of tourism at river estuaries, religious places, boat house, water sports and other areas. A tourism task force has been created with the aim to gather suggestions – C T Ravi, Tourism Minister

The number of tourists visiting the district is increasing by the year. More than 30 people have come forward to newly start home stays – Sudheer Gowds, DK District Tourism Advisor