Heritage Goes Global: Hampi, Mysuru and Lakkundi Chosen for World-Class Tourism Development
Karnataka has recommended Hampi, Mysuru and Lakkundi for the Centre’s Global Destination Development project — a significant move to place India’s rich cultural heritage on the global tourism map.
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, following a state-level consultation meeting held in Hampi on 6–7 July 2026. The project seeks to create world-class tourism centres through cooperation between state governments and the private sector, with the final decision resting with the Union Tourism Ministry after it examines the proposal.
The selected destinations are expected to receive central assistance of ₹800 crore in two phases — ₹500 crore in the first phase and ₹300 crore in the second. The development plan covers world-class infrastructure, improved connectivity, enhanced tourist facilities, heritage conservation, sustainable development and private investment, all of which form part of tourism planning for heritage and cultural destinations in India.
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka associated with the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, while Mysuru is a major cultural and tourism centre and Lakkundi is known for its Chalukyan temple architecture and stepped wells. The plan for Hampi includes scientific documentation and digital preservation of monuments, and the Hampi and Ballari railway stations are proposed for redevelopment as heritage stations, along with an international interpretation centre and a tourism college.
Tourism is an important pillar of India’s economy and employment generation, and heritage tourism in particular boosts local handicrafts, hospitality and transport while earning valuable foreign exchange. Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra river, Hampi served as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire during the 14th–16th centuries and was counted among the wealthiest cities of the world in its time. Planned development of such sites, in line with initiatives like ‘Dekho Apna Desh’, is expected to accelerate both domestic and international tourism.
Key Points
- Hampi, Mysuru and Lakkundi recommended by Karnataka for Global Destination Development.
- Selected sites to receive ₹800 crore (₹500 + ₹300 crore) in central assistance.
- Hampi was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986; linked to the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Lakkundi is famed for its Chalukyan temples and stepped wells.
- Hampi and Ballari stations to be redeveloped as heritage stations.
📝 Important from Exam Point of View (Exam Focus)
- 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.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites are places recognised for outstanding universal value under the World Heritage Convention of 1972.
- Hampi is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra river.
