KSTDC to Manage Karnataka Pilgrims’ Lodge at Tirumala for Next Decade

The Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation has been handed responsibility for running the Karnataka Tourist Complex in Tirumala for a ten‑year term. The handover was formalised in Bengaluru, where the Muzrai department and KSTDC signed the pact during a ceremony led by Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George, with Muzrai, Fisheries and Ports Minister K.S. Basavanthappa and KSTDC Chairman M. Srinivas in attendance. The move aims to offer Karnataka pilgrims travelling to Tirupati clean, safe and affordable lodging while setting a professional benchmark for government‑run tourism assets. Under the deal, KSTDC will operate 364 guest rooms, twelve dormitory blocks, a wedding hall and other key hospitality units spread over five sections of the complex. Upgrades will be carried out in stages to bring the facilities up to at least a three‑star hotel level. George highlighted the large flow of Karnataka devotees to Tirumala and said ensuring decent, low‑cost stay options is a top priority, adding that better information, transport links and tourism services could encourage visitors to explore additional holy sites. He tasked KSTDC officials with raising standards of room upkeep, cleanliness, food services and overall guest experience to match professional norms.

Context

Pilgrimage travel forms a major share of Karnataka’s tourism, and Tirumala is one of the most visited holy destinations in South India. State‑run lodgings like this complex help manage the large visitor numbers while supporting local economies.