3D tourism a reality now!

Bengaluru: The opening up of the IT-BT and tourism sectors in Karnataka has led to many private collaborators accelerating development. A startup, Digitour Technologies, displayed its futuristic innovations at the exhibition stall of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.

“For instance, when you go to a temple in Hampi, even without the internet, your phone will automatically connect to the portal through our hotspot, which will give you a guided tour of the monument, in English, Kannada and Hindi,” said Anand Babu, one of the moves behind the startup.

The portal functions through a virtual reality device that helps one experience realistic imagery, sensations, and sounds giving a 3D environment. “Usually, a Virtual Reality device will cost Rs 700. We will make it available at the ticket counters of all historical sites in the state for rent at Rs 100.  So far we have readied it for Hampi. Next on our list are Belur-Halebidu and Mysuru,” he said.

At another stall, a 59-year-old artist from Mysuru put on display his unique wooden paintings. “It takes one to two months to get the right tree bark and make these wooden painting. The colours are not paint, but differently hued barks. I invented this on my own three decades ago and now I train others. But over the years, youngsters are losing interest in learning this art,” said Mr Mohan.

“The numbers of artistes has dropped from around 5,000 to 300 because of the risks involved. I have my own workshop to train them, but it would help if the government supports me with a proper training school,” he said.