Opportunities of Tourism in Kolar District of Karnataka-A Study

Tourism is an important service and entertainment linked economic activity. Tourism is one of the worlds largest industries which is the major source of income. The promotion of any place as a tourist destination leads to the economic development of that area and opens various kinds of employment avenues for the local people as well. These are in the nature of tour operations, travel agencies, restaurants, hotels and working as guides. Tourism embraces every walk of life. The Kolar District is located at a distance of about 43 miles from Bangalore and 20 miles from Kolar Gold Fields. The city is located on the southern maidan (plains) region of Karnataka. The Kolar District has several attractive places with historical, cultural and religious importance. The study throws light on the opportunities and major challenges faced by Kolar District in the tourism industry. It is observed from the study that lack of various supporting systems, amenities and facilities restricted Kolar District to attract more number of tourists particularly foreign tourists in spite of having exotic tourist locations across the district.