Dasara rush: 50% private accommodation and hotels in Kodagu, Chikkamagalur booked

Kodagu district is likely to see the highest traffic, especially from October 17 to 21, with most homestays and mid-range hotels also booked. | Photo credit: File photo

As the Dasara holidays have begun, around 50% accommodation in key tourist destinations in Karnataka is already booked as of October 15, according to homestay associations, hoteliers and Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) officials. Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru have emerged as popular destinations, say stakeholders.

HL Girish, member of Chikkamagalur Homestay Owners’ Association and owner of Saaranga homestay, said there would be an influx of tourists from October 15 and around 50% of the rooms were booked through direct phone calls to the owners. “Another 30% of tourists book through various online booking platforms and 20% arrive without a reservation,” he said.

Mr. Girish said that although the demand is high, the rates will remain around ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 2,500 per day depending on the beds. “As a homestay association, we will not increase the price yet. It only happens during the New Year celebrations,” he said.

Sampath, owner of Nammane homestay at Kalasa in Chikamagalur, said people tend to rush for last-hour bookings and homestay owners are preparing for it.

Kodagu district is likely to see the highest traffic, especially from October 17 to 21, with most homestays and mid-range hotels also booked. Monthi Ganesh, president, Kodagu Homestay Owners’ Association, said Kodagu is also famous for celebrating Dasara overnight on Vijayadashami day. “While the celebrations in Mysuru end at noon, in Kodagu it peaks at night. Those who travel to Mysuru to witness Vijayadashmi will head to Kodagu later. There will be a Dasha Mantapa procession that will continue throughout the night,” he said, adding that it tends to attract huge crowds.

BR Nagendra Prasad, President, Hotel Owners Association, Kodagu highlighted the challenges of this huge demand. “During long weekends, it is challenging to manage the huge crowds. We are not sure how many tourists will end up arriving. But all the hotels that are part of our association are preparing for measures, including extra accommodation.”

Devaraj HS, senior manager, Mayura Hotels, KSTDC, said, “Mayura mid-budget hotels in all 25 establishments are priced at ₹ 2,500 per day. Rooms in at least 20 hotels have already been booked. Not only Madikeri, rooms in BR hills, Shivanasamudra, Halebidu are booked.”

Published – 12 Oct 2026 22:12 IST