Mangaluru: The tourism sector in the coastal region is witnessing a significant boom at the start of this year. In the last four months, more than 3.47 crore tourists have visited various destinations across the coast.

Between January and April 2026, a total of 3,47,38,257 domestic and foreign tourists visited the coastal districts. This includes 1,95,52,314 visitors to Dakshina Kannada and 1,51,85,943 to Udupi district, providing a massive boost to local tourism.

Beaches remain a primary attraction for those visiting these districts. Over the last few months, Tannirbhavi beach recorded 17,55,762 visitors, followed by Malpe Sea Walk and port with 17,42,961, Malpe beach with 16,35,200, and Panambur with 14,46,132. Other popular spots included Someshwara (10,86,584), Sasihithlu (5,30,649), Surathkal (4,06,856), and St. Mary’s Island (4,35,739).

April saw the highest influx of tourists compared to other months. Religious sites also recorded heavy footfall in April, with 9,00,000 visitors in Udupi, 8,32,400 in Kateel, 7,14,600 in Dharmasthala, and 1,15,900 at the Sri Sahasralingeshwara Temple in Uppinangady.

High demand for hotels and resorts

Since late March, the coastal region has seen a steady stream of visitors, leading to advanced bookings in hotels and resorts. Quiet environments featuring beaches, hills, and rivers are particularly favoured. Hotel industry experts noted that the surge in demand, primarily from within the state and neighbouring regions, is expected to continue until the end of May.

Increase in foreign tourists

International visitors are also showing a growing interest in coastal destinations. Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts welcomed 344 and 1,926 foreign tourists respectively over the four-month period. Most international travellers visited Tannirbhavi, Panambur, Sasihithlu, and various sites in Udupi.

Tourist Arrivals (Jan–April 2026):

- Naveen Bhat Ilantila