Bengaluru trails in tourist destinations with just 27 against 1,275 across state amid rapid urbanisation

Despite being a city with more than five centuries of cultural heritage, Bengaluru has just 27 officially recognised tourist destinations, according to the Karnataka Department of Tourism. This figure appears strikingly low when compared with the 1,275 destinations identified across Karnataka, raising concerns about the capital’s diminishing tourism presence.

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Bengaluru Urban district accounts for 27 sites, while Bengaluru Rural has 25. In contrast, Mandya leads the state with 106 destinations, followed by Belagavi with 100, Chikkaballapura with 95, and Uttara Kannada with 85. Yadgir ranks the lowest, with only five identified sites.

 Direct consequence of unchecked urbanisation

Experts suggest that Bengaluru’s limited tally is a direct consequence of unchecked urbanisation and the rapid growth of real estate projects. The city, once home to hundreds of historical, architectural, and cultural landmarks, has witnessed many of these being erased or overshadowed by modern infrastructure. Heritage walks, hidden monuments, and traditional neighbourhoods that once drew visitors have not been fully documented or promoted.

The state government reportedly finalised the 1,275 sites based on criteria such as historical importance, visitor popularity, and tourism potential. Officials have stressed the need for detailed action plans to develop existing attractions and identify more heritage-rich areas, particularly in the capital.

As Karnataka’s tourism map continues to expand, Bengaluru faces the challenge of preserving its historic character while balancing the demands of a rapidly growing metropolis.