Karnataka Tourism Dept. recognises homestays, B&Bs separately to improve tourist experience
To encourage tourism entrepreneurs to invest in Karnataka’s growing tourism sector while providing tourists with more accommodation options, the Department of Tourism has introduced a
To encourage tourism entrepreneurs to invest in Karnataka’s growing tourism sector while providing tourists with more accommodation options, the Department of Tourism has introduced a Bed & Breakfast policy. Unlike the policy for homestays, where family members stay on the same premises as tourists, the Bed & Breakfast policy provides for an operator or agent to stay on the premises and offer hospitality services to guests. According to the Guidelines for Registration of Homestay Establishments – 2025, community-based homestays fall under the non-commercial category, while Bed & Breakfast establishments are recognised under the commercial category.
Minister for Energy and Tourism K.J. George said, “Tourism in Karnataka is growing rapidly, and our accommodation ecosystem must evolve to meet the changing needs of travellers. By creating separate categories for homestays and Bed & Breakfast establishments, we are preserving the authenticity of local hospitality while also encouraging professionally managed accommodation. This will improve the visitor experience and expand quality accommodation infrastructure across Karnataka.” A release from the Department of Tourism noted, “The government will soon issue separate operational guidelines for the Bed & Breakfast category.
This move aims to establish a dedicated framework for professionally managed tourist accommodation while preserving community-based homestays. The reform is intended to improve service quality, streamline regulation, and further strengthen tourism infrastructure in the State.” In addition, the department has made it mandatory to display registration certificates, maintain guest records,
ensure police verification of staff, and comply with prescribed safety protocols, thereby enhancing visitor confidence and safety. V. Ram Prasath Manohar, Commissioner, Department of Tourism, also noted that the policy enables the department to implement more effective regulation, strengthen digital governance and ensure higher service standards based on different operational models.
The BriefWire