Heatwave leaves Vijayapura-Bagalkot tourism sector struggling

Vijayapura: The twin districts of Vijayapura and Bagalkot, home to heritage sites of the Chalukyas, Adil Shahis and other dynasties, attract thousands of tourists, especially during winter. Visitor numbers are usually moderate during the rainy season. However, this year, the tourism industry has been badly hit due to scorching heat, with temperatures touching 40°C. As a result, businesses dependent on tourism have been pushed into crisis.

Shantesh Kalasgond, managing director of Shubhashree Group of Hotels, Vijayapura, told TOI that hotels typically receive good business even during summer in the city. “However, this time we are witnessing 20–25% fewer visitors compared to winter. Many tourists, especially families, used to visit Gol Gumbaz and other attractions during the summer holidays. But since March, occupancy levels have declined. We have also observed a drop in tourists’ spending capacity, possibly due to the West Asia crisis. On the other hand, the scorching heat has led to a shortage of labourers in non-AC workplaces, especially in kitchens. Hence, we are eagerly awaiting the rains,” he said.

Sangappa Jiragi, proprietor of Nandini Milk Parlour in Aihole, said the high temperatures are discouraging tourists. “Earlier, we used to witness average business even during summer. However, over the past two to three years, business has dropped to about 10% compared to Nov–Dec levels. Apart from the heat, poor road conditions and lack of good hotels have also contributed to the deserted look at heritage sites here,” he added.

He further said, “There are a few tourists until around 12pm. After that, business becomes rare.” Several tourist guides said they used to see over 5,000 visitors per day in winter, but the number has now dropped to around 500. “Tourists prefer visiting sites only until 11am and then return to hotels for rest. They step out again after 4pm and visit only one or two places in the evening. Many are skipping Badami and heading to cooler destinations,” they said.

Sources in the Archaeological Survey of India confirmed that Badami received 27,335 tourists in April 2025, whereas the number dropped to 21,924 in April this year.