agri tourism guidelines in karnataka

Agritourism, the new addition to tourism world

BENGALURU: We have heard of coastal tourism, heritage, adventure and even heli-tourism. Now, the upcoming tourism policy will also include agritourism, which is gradually becoming a hit among children, urban families and even the corporate world.

In the last two years, many agricultural farms have come up in and around the city. Many schools have been organising trips to such places where children are made to understand rural life by spending time with farm animals like cattle, horses, birds and even reptiles. Some also do dairy farming and agriculture. Similarly, many urban families are taking their children to day-long tours to such agro-tourism farms where families get to spend quality time together. Many corporate firms have also started to turn towards this, instead of resorts, where at economical rates, team building and de-stressing activities can be done. The tourism department and companies have realised this has a lot of potential and are now working to regulate it and bring into the upcoming tourism policy.

Chikkamath, from AgriculTour, a startup and pioneer in agri-tourism in Karnataka said, “AgriculTour is a fusion of Agriculture and Tourism — a first of its kind Agri Tourism initiative in India. They are natural tours and contribute more to tourism, when compared to regular tourism activities. It provides a unique experiential learning opportunity for children to understand about agriculture, which is the source of our food and also for farmers to learn best practices in agriculture. It also provides and an additional source of income for the farmers and rural communities. “

A senior tourism official said the policy was being reviewed closely by the tourism minister. He said: “This is a good blend of nature, tradition, culture and lifestyle, but is new and unorganised. Some groups made presentations on this and it looks promising. It will be discussed at length along with other points at the high level first-ever all stakeholders meeting which will be held on January 17 and 18. After this, the final report will be prepared and submitted to the government. Agri-tourism is a method to empower farmers, give them an alternate source of income and get direct feedback from customers. This has also caught the attention of the minister as for the first time it is different from the conventional tourism models. Here, customised tours can be done to attract international tourists.”  

In the informal sector, over 25,000- 30,000 tourists have visited the various agri-tourism destinations. Around 15- 20 are operating in and around Bengaluru, attracting tourists from all quarters of society.

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A STUDY ON STRATEGIES TO PROMOTE AGRI-TOURISM IN KARNATAKA, INDIA

• Dr. Siddalingappa Author

This study aims to explore and propose effective strategies to promote agri-tourism in the state of Karnataka, India. Agri-tourism, a form of rural tourism, provides an opportunity for visitors to experience and engage in agricultural activities while promoting sustainable practices and empowering local communities. Karnataka, with its diverse agricultural landscape and rich cultural heritage, has great potential to develop agri-tourism as a means to boost rural economies and preserve traditional farming practices. This study analyzes the current state of agri-tourism in Karnataka, identifies challenges, and presents strategies to overcome barriers to successful implementation.

Keyword: Agri-Tourism, Rural Tourism, Sustainable Practices, Agricultural Activities, Community Engagement, Socio-Cultural Significance, Infrastructure Development, Cultural Preservation, Rural Economy, Tourism Promotion.

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Karnataka introduces agri-tourism policy

Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa on Sunday unveiled a new agricultural and a rural-themed tourism policy in order to give fillip to the sector in the state. It thereby seeks to increase the sector’s contribution to the state from 14.8% to 20% of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) by 2025.

The new policy seeks to lure investments worth around ₹ 5000 crore and to create one million direct and indirect jobs over the next five years. “Agri Tourism and Rural Tourism are the core tourism themes of the Policy with the objective to promote not just agricultural and farming activities but also various aspects of rural life in Karnataka such as local cuisine, culture, traditions, arts etc,” the government stated.

In addition, Karnataka has also announced a new industrial policy with the intention to spur investments and employment in the state. Under the proposed scheme, the state government aims to spend ₹ 409.5 crores in subsidies staggered over the next five years of the policy period. It aims to attract a minimum ₹ 2789 crore ($372 million) and around 190 tourism projects in the state.

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Agritourism near Mysuru on cards

Hinterlands being identified by KSTDC to push village stay concept for tourists

Mysore/Mysuru : The convergence of agriculture and tourism creates a new tourism product called agritourism and the State Tourism Policy 2020-2025 lays a big thrust on agritourism. Taking the initiative further, the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) has proposed an agritourism destination between Mysuru and Srirangapatna.

“We are taking steps towards creating agritourism facility for tourists in Mysuru region where tourists coming here would get an opportunity of staying with farmers in the villages. The KSTDC and the Tourism Department is in the process of identifying certain villages in the hinterlands of Mysuru and Srirangapatna for the same,” KSTDC Chairperson Shruthi  Krishna told Star of Mysore.

With agritourism, tourists will get the advantage of learning a lot about villages, forest, food habits and farming while staying in villages. Government is making arrangements for the stay and safety of tourists in rural areas, she said and added that this step will have a positive impact on the farmers as their source of income will increase since they will be providing accommodation and food. Also tourists will get an altogether different experience, Shruthi added. 

Also, Tourism Department owns over 19 acres of land near Srirangapatna somewhere close to KRS Dam backwaters and discussions are on to set up an agritourism destination there. “Every year Mysuru sees a lot of tourists who are keen to go towards villages and love to be in natural environment. If this project succeeds and picks up popularity, then Mysuru will be the first district in Karnataka to set the trend of agritourism,” she said. 

Agritourism is a big hit in Rajasthan and is a tourism related to farms and ranches which provide various benefits to low-income farmers by supporting them to earn additional income, creating employment for rural youth, promoting handicraft and art and at the same time preserving the culture, she said.

In Mysuru region like in the rest of India, over 75 percent of population live in rural areas where the major occupation is agriculture and its allied activities. Therefore, in order to cope up with the unpredicted nature of agriculture and to release the financial strain on families, supporting activity like agritourism can help farmers by widening the scope of their earning.

“The opportunity holds immense potential due to its cost-effective nature, demand for family-oriented recreation environment, growing curiosity about farming and increased focus on promoting environmental consciousness. Villages can also hold cultural nights for tourists. Tourists will get the benefit of local cuisine made in villages and cultural programmes will make tourists aware of the local culture,” Shruthi explained.

As per the State Tourism Policy 2020-25, agritourism must encourage active involvement in the activities of the farm or its operations. It can include components like horticulture, orchards, gardens, vineyards, fish ponds, sericulture units, apiculture unit, dairy farming, and goat or piggery units. This part, activities such as farm camping, hands-on farming, picking fruits or vegetables, feeding animals, interactions with farmers on farming process from sowing to reaping must be included.

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₹ 5,000 crore investment" data-reg = "Karnataka unveils agricultural, tourism policy; eyes ₹ 5,000 crore investment">Karnataka unveils agricultural, tourism policy; eyes ₹5,000 crore investment

The new policy comes at a time when karnataka has been looking for fresh inflow of capital to revive its fledgling finances.

BENGALURU : Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa on Sunday unveiled the state's new agricultural and a rural-themed tourism policy that has set a target to attract ₹ 5000 crore of investments and create one million direct and indirect jobs over the next five years.

The new policy also aims to increase the contribution of the sector from 14.8% to 20% of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) by 2025.

“Agri Tourism and Rural Tourism are the core tourism themes of the Policy with the objective to promote not just agricultural and farming activities but also various aspects of rural life in Karnataka such as local cuisine, culture, traditions, arts etc," the government said in a press statemen.

The new policy comes at a time when Karnataka has been looking for fresh inflow of capital to revive its fledgling finances. With no option but to raise debt due to the centre’s decision not to pay goods and services tax (GST) compensation, floods and damage to agricultural activities and the covid-19 induced lockdown, Karnataka’s economy has felt one of the hardest impacts in recent times.

Karnataka has also announced a new industrial policy to bring in fresh investments and create new jobs in the state.

The policy outlines subsidies and incentives for fresh investments.

Under the proposed scheme, the state government aims to disburse ₹ 409.5 crores in subsidies over the next five years of the policy period. With these subsidies and incentives, the government aims to attract a minimum ₹ 2789 crore ($372 million) and around 190 tourism projects in the state.

It has also proposed to provide exemption on stamp duty, concessions on registration charges, reimbursement of land conversion charges, exemption on motor vehicle tax, complimentary infrastructure assistance among other benefits.

The policy aims to achieve sustainability goals set by the United Nations Organisation and encourages an analytics-driven approach for planning and decision-making and provide innovative digital solutions to enhance the quality of services across the tourism ecosystem, the government stated.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Rise of Agro Tourism Sector in India

India is an incredible piece of land for foodies and travelers. Diverse in culture, landscape, and ethnicities, it has been a hotspot for tourists from all across the globe. From spiritual destinations to the most scenic terrain and shiny beaches, India has it all. As per the records,  India catered to around 10.93 million foreign tourists in 2019. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought the number down to 6.19 million in 2022. The rise is expected within the next couple of years. Thus, all governments are implementing new strategies to attract the largest number of domestic and foreign tourists. One such strategy is Agro Tourism.

What is Agro Tourism?

Agro tourism, or agritourism, involves visiting farms, agricultural areas, and rural landscapes. It is an immersive experience of farmland and participating in farming activities and rural life. It is a form of niche tourism that allows tourists to learn about agricultural practices, food production processes, and the rural way of life while enjoying recreational activities in the countryside. Agritourism destinations may include working farms, vineyards, orchards, ranches, and other agricultural settings.

Objectives of Agro Tourism

The primary objective of the agro-tourism sector is to provide tourists with an educational and entertaining experience. Furthermore, supports local farmers and rural communities by generating additional income and promoting sustainable agriculture and cultural exchange. Visitors to agritourism sites can often engage in activities such as picking fruits, vegetables, or grapes. In addition, they can participate in farm chores, take farm tours, and enjoy farm-fresh food and products. They can even learn about traditional agricultural methods.

Agritourism has become increasingly popular worldwide as people seek to reconnect with nature, understand where their food comes from, and experience the slower pace of rural life. Additionally, it allows farmers to diversify their income streams and promote their products directly to consumers.

Why is Agro Tourism popular in India?

Agro tourism’s popularity in India can be attributed to its rich rural heritage, diverse agricultural practices, and authentic cultural experiences. With over 60% of the population dependent on agriculture, India naturally becomes an appealing destination for agriculture tourism. Moreover, visitors are drawn to immersing themselves in traditional rural life, witnessing various farming techniques, and engaging in farm-to-table experiences like harvesting crops and milking cows. However, agro tourism promotes education about agriculture and sustainable practices and offers a peaceful escape from urban life. In addition, the sector contributes to the economic development of rural communities and aligns with the growing interest in sustainable and responsible tourism. Thus, supported by the Indian government, it continues to gain popularity as it showcases the country’s agricultural diversity and cultural richness, making it a captivating destination for both domestic and international tourists.

A report published by IMARC says India’s agriculture and tourism could have a growth rate of 19.9% (CAGR) between 2023-2028. To understand the predicted growth, let’s try to understand how agro tourism operates in India.

Types of Agro Tourism in India

Each type of agro tourism in India offers a distinctive experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature, understand local culture, and gain insights into the country’s agricultural heritage. Moreover, these diverse options make India an attractive destination for tourists seeking authentic and enriching rural experiences.

• Culinary tourism: This type of tourism centers around food experiences and culinary traditions. Tourists can indulge in farm-fresh meals, cooking workshops, and local produce and regional dishes tastings.
• Wine and vineyard tourism: India has a growing wine industry, particularly in regions like Nashik in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Wine and vineyard tourism allows visitors to explore vineyards, learn about winemaking processes, and sample different wines.
• Tea estate tourism: India is renowned for its tea production, and tea estate tourism allows tourists to visit tea plantations in places like Darjeeling and Assam. They can witness tea plucking and processing and learn about the tea culture.
• Spice plantation tourism: In Kerala and other southern states, spice plantation tours offer visitors the chance to explore aromatic spice gardens, learn about various spices, and understand their culinary and medicinal uses.
• Fruit orchard tourism: Certain regions in India, like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, offer fruit orchard tours where tourists can pick fruits, enjoy scenic landscapes, and experience rural agricultural life.
• Ayurveda and wellness tourism: This form of agro tourism focuses on traditional Ayurvedic practices and wellness therapies. Moreover, tourists can engage in rejuvenating treatments and yoga retreats, as well as learn about Ayurvedic medicinal plants.
• Sustainable and eco-tourism: Some agro tourism initiatives focus on promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Tourists can participate in eco-friendly farm activities, learn about conservation efforts, and support responsible tourism.
• Rural craft and art tourism: This type of agro tourism involves visiting rural artisans and craftsmen to learn about traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and handloom work and purchase unique handmade products.
• Adventure tourism: Adventure tourism offers tourists the opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities amidst rural landscapes. These activities often involve exploring nature and agricultural areas in an adventurous and active manner.

Benefits of the Industry

Agro tourism in India promotes a symbiotic relationship between agriculture, tourism, and local communities. It fosters sustainable development, cultural understanding, and economic success while safeguarding the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

• Economic Boost: Agro tourism generates additional income for farmers and rural communities, helping to diversify their revenue sources. It also creates employment opportunities through various services like farm stays, guided tours, and local crafts, contributing to the growth of the local economy.
• Agricultural and Environmental Sustainability: Agro tourism encourages sustainable agricultural practices as farmers often showcase eco-friendly methods to tourists. This fosters awareness about responsible farming. Moreover, it emphasizes the conservation of natural resources and the importance of biodiversity preservation.
• Cultural Exchange and Social Integration: Agriculture tourism facilitates cultural exchange between tourists and local communities. Thus, visitors gain insights into rural traditions, festivals, and customs, promoting mutual understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures. This social interaction helps bridge the gap between urban and rural populations.
• Preservation of Rural Heritage: Agro-tourism plays a role in preserving traditional knowledge, crafts, and skills that might otherwise be at risk of fading away. By valuing and showcasing rural heritage, it helps maintain cultural identity and heritage for future generations.
• Health and Well-being: Agro tourism promotes physical and mental well-being through outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and farm-related tasks. It provides a refreshing escape from urban life, offering tourists a chance to connect with nature and experience a healthier lifestyle.
• Conservation of Agricultural Land: Farmers may be incentivized to maintain their agricultural lands instead of converting them into non-agricultural uses by promoting agro-tourism. This helps protect valuable agricultural resources and prevent further urban sprawl.

Top Agro Tourism States to Visit in India

India offers many captivating agro tourism destinations, each boasting unique agricultural landscapes, cultural experiences, and adventure opportunities. Here are some of the most popular states to explore:

• Maharashtra: Maharashtra’s rich agricultural heritage makes it an ideal destination for agro tourism. Farm stays offer a glimpse into rural life, while heritage tours unveil the state’s cultural gems. Adventurous travelers can explore Maharashtra’s diverse Sahayadri mountain range and the scenic landscapes of Konkan.
• Kerala: Kerala always surprises every tourist on their trip in its verdant hills and tranquil backwaters. In addition, tourists can enjoy farm stays amidst lush plantations, participate in heritage tours to learn about the state’s rich cultural traditions, and engage in adventure activities like hiking and river rafting.
• Himachal Pradesh: Nestled in the northern region of India, Himachal Pradesh captivates with its majestic mountains, forests, and valleys. Moreover, agro tourism here includes farm stays that allow visitors to immerse themselves in rural life. Additionally, there are treks through scenic landscapes and camping in the lap of nature.
• Uttarakhand: With its holy mountains, sacred rivers, and dense forests, Uttarakhand has a magical experience for every tourist. Visitors can indulge in farm stays, hike through breathtaking trails, and enjoy thrilling rafting adventures.
• Tamil Nadu: Diverse agricultural practices and lush landscapes make Tamil Nadu an excellent destination for agro-tourism. Tourists can explore tea and coffee plantations in the Nilgiris. Moreover, visit spice gardens in Kerala and discover traditional agricultural practices in rural areas.
• Assam: The tea gardens of Assam allow visitors to learn about tea cultivation and processing. Additionally, tourists can explore the rural life of the state’s tribal communities and indulge in traditional Assamese cuisine.
• Karnataka: The state’s diverse landscapes contain every possible attraction, from beaches, and jungles to widely spread farm lands. Karnataka offers attractions such as visits to coffee and spice plantations in Coorg and exploring rural charm in the Malnad region.

Factors Driving India’s Agriculture Tourism

Key factors are propelling the agro tourism market’s growth in India:

• Increasing Demand for Sustainable Tourism: Tourists are showing interest in sustainable tourism, recognizing its significance in preserving the environment and supporting local communities. Thus, agro-tourism, focusing on sustainable farming practices and rural experiences, aligns well with this trend.
• Surging Popularity of Farm Stays: Farm stays have gained significant popularity among tourists, as they offer a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in rural life and engage in agricultural activities. These authentic experiences attract travelers seeking meaningful connections with nature and local culture.
• Government Initiatives Promoting Rural Tourism: The Indian government’s proactive efforts to promote rural tourism foster the agro-tourism market’s growth. By incentivizing and supporting rural initiatives, the government aims to uplift the rural economy and preserve traditional heritage.

Final Thoughts

Agro tourism in India offers a diverse and enriching rural experience to visitors. With its vast agricultural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, tourists can engage in farm stays, learn about sustainable practices, and bridge the gap between urban and rural communities. States like Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan provide opportunities for adventure tourism, while Punjab showcases the impact of the Green Revolution. From tea gardens in Assam to spice plantations in Karnataka, each region offers unique experiences. This sustainable and educational form of tourism benefits local economies, promotes environmental conservation, and fosters cultural understanding in India’s countryside.

Keep Reading! Keep Growing!

• Who is the Founder of Agro Tourism?

Ans: The founder of agro-tourism is considered to be Klaus Obermeyer, an American who first coined the term “agro-tourism” in 1983. Additionally, he is known for his pioneering work in fruiting trees and the development of the “Tobacco Control Act” in the United States.

• Who is the Founder of Agri-tourism in India?

Ans: The founder of agri-tourism is Pandurang Taware, known as the “Father of Agri Tourism” in India. He has been a prominent figure in promoting agri-tourism and has received various awards and recognition for his work in this field. For instance, in 2010, he received the National Tourism Award from the Vice President of India.

Taware is the founder, managing director, and chief promoter of the Maharashtra State Agri & Rural Tourism Co-operative Federation Ltd. He is also working to create an international body to promote Agri-tourism.

• Which country is famous for agro tourism?

Ans: The concept of agro-tourism has gained considerable attention in recent years. The countries like India, Australia, Malaysia, the USA, etc. are popular destinations for agro-tourism. However, rising infrastructure and government policies are building the ladder for India to develop agro tourism at its best.

• What is the full form of Agro?

Ans: Agro is a shortened form of agronomy or agriculture. In English, “agro-” is a combining form that refers to fields, soil, or agriculture.

Parag Ahire

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AGRI-TOURISM

What is in news : Karnataka agriculture department has proposed about 26 potential areas for investors and come out with fresh guidelines to regulate tourist activities on farms as interest surges.

• Areas of interest – Experiencing the slow-pace of a rural setting, living on a village farm, orchard or plantation
• The target crowd for this would be the urban population who want to experience rural life
• What are the activities proposed – The director said that tourists would get to experience activities such as milk production, sericulture, bee-keeping, hands-on farming, including picking fruits and vegetables, rides and games and many others.
• Activities would be spread throughout the state, ranging from silk farms of Ramanagara to paddy farms in Mandya and Ballari, areca plantations of central Karnataka to coffee plantations of Malnad.
• The initiative could be owned by an individual farmer or a group of farmers or society. Alongside their farm activities, this will act as an income multiplier for farmers while providing exposure to the urban crowd about rural conditions, said officials.
• Completely different from the current home-stay tour concept.
• A minimum farm area of five acres is a must to offer the agri-tourism activities, with guided tours on farming practices, interaction with farmers and agricultural labourers.

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Agri-tourism in India: Beautiful farmstays to get back to your roots

TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA Created : May 17, 2022, 20:00 IST

We can’t deny the fact that agriculture is the backbone of India and a great percentage of our economy depends on the agriculture sector. Having stated this, agri-tourism is the latest trend gaining popularity in the country. In the world of climate change and pandemic, people are now more keen towards finding their roots and going back to nature.

This is why farmstays are now blossoming in India. These places offer authentic village and farm life by providing interactive experience of rural life. Fresh air is all we seek today and these are places where we can repair our polluted lungs!

Let’s have a look at some of the best farmstays in India.

Vanilla County, Kottayam, Kerala

Kerala is one of the best places to experience village life in India. Vanilla County in Kottayam district is a beautiful farmstay, boasting a 70 year-old heritage bungalow. The gorgeous place is situated some two and a half hours drive from Kochi airport, near Vagamon. Here, guests can enjoy a complete village life, go on plantation walks, trekking, and visit other nearby villages.

The Goat Village, Garhwal, Uttarakhand

Goat Village in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand offers an authentic village experience to guests. The whole property is dedicated to organic farming and agriculture and if you love goats, you’ll definitely love this place. The purpose-built cottages here offer delicious local cuisine with the help of villagers. Though reaching here requires a trek of about an hour, it’s all worth it.

Prakriti Farms, Rupnagar, Punjab

Punjab is the heart of Indian agriculture flourishing with all the romantic and yellow sarson ke khet . Prakriti Farms in Punjab is nearly an hour drive from Chandigarh at the foothills of the Shivalik Range. Guests can choose to stay at the cottages or tents which are equipped with shared bathrooms. Some luxury Swiss tents have attached bathrooms as well.

Maachli, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra

Situated in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra, Maachli is among the best farmstay of India. The place is set in Parule village on the Konkan Coast, and is home to Maachli , meaning 'elevated huts'. Bhogwe and Tarkarli are the nearest beaches to the property. Accommodation here is offered in four hut-style rooms.

Konyak Tea Retreat, Mon, Nagaland

Nagaland villages are so beautiful that you’ll be totally mesmerised with their natural beauty! An offbeat Indian beauty, Nagaland is dotted with many pretty little villages. Konyak Tea Retreat in Mon district is a boutique farmhouse set in the middle of a secluded 250-hectare tea estate. Besides tea gardens, the farm also boasts of an orange orchard and vegetable garden. Guests here are taught how to milk cows and goats. Also, those who wish can go along and work with locals in the farms and learn the art of agriculture.

​Dewalokam Farmstay Retreat, Karimannoor, Kerala

Another pretty farmstay in Kerala, Dewalokam is around 90 minutes drive from Kochi airport. Guests here can relish a wide variety of farm fresh fruits and vegetables. To help guests get in touch with their roots, the property organises village walks, temple visits and cow milking.

Acres Wild Cheesemaking Farmstay, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

You’ll be shocked to know that a renowned Bollywood director gave up his hit career in the entertainment industry to stay connected with nature and well, to make cheese! Yes, the famous Bollywood director Mansoor Khan ( Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak fame), now makes cheese with his family at the gorgeous 22-acre Acres Wild Cheesemaking Farmstay in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. He has devoted his life to cheese and nature. Guests here can learn cheese making and stay at cottages, named after types of cheeses. Such a devoted cheese lover!

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We can’t deny the fact that agriculture is the backbone of India and a great percentage of our economy depends on the agriculture sector. Having stated this, agri-tourism is the latest trend gaining p...