Bengaluru: Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) and nearby areas, not Bengaluru city itself, have become a popular spot for tourists visiting on business
trips like meetings, conferences, and exhibitions. Tour operators and other people in the tourism industry say many visitors stay around the airport without going into the city, according to a media report. They hold meetings, socialise, and even enjoy short holidays near the airport before catching their evening flights. The hotels, restaurants, and resorts around Devanahalli and nearby places, including some in Andhra Pradesh, attract tourists because these areas do not have traffic jams. The airport itself has many eateries and hotels close by, which appeals to travellers on short trips. One tour operator said, “Besides luxury hotels near the airport, there are also homestays and resorts nearby. The large airport area offers a good place for people who want to avoid Bengaluru’s traffic," a report by The New Indian Express quoted. This new trend was discussed on Saturday during a workshop celebrating 50 years of Skal India-Bengaluru Circle, a group of travel and tourism professionals. Also Read: Bengaluru Pub Mishap: Burning Cocktail Spills on Woman’s Face During Botched Demo — Here’s What Happened Next Rohit Hangal, a tourism expert, said the airport is becoming a new social hub. People meet there not only for business but also for get-togethers. The hospitality business is growing in the area because tourists want to avoid Bengaluru’s heavy traffic and toll plaza delays. Although Bengaluru city attracts many tourists and has a large transient population, its infrastructure remains a concern. This issue has been raised with the state government. Manimegalai, President of SKAL International Bengaluru Club, said, “The work on infrastructure needs to speed up to keep up with the growing number of visitors.” Venkatesan D, Regional Director (South) of the Ministry of Tourism, said tourism depends on many government departments working together, including home affairs, civil aviation, and urban development. He said all departments need to coordinate their efforts to boost tourism. Venkatesan also said they are training taxi and auto drivers in hospitality and communication skills because these drivers are often the first people tourists meet. Proper training will help attract more visitors to the city and state.
