Karnataka to Launch Online Bookings for Trek Routes in July, says Minister

Mangaluru: Minister for Forest, Ecology, and Environment, Eshwar B Khandre, has said that the online ticket bookings for various trekking routes across Karnataka, would commence in the third week of July.

Speaking at a press conference in Mangaluru, Khandre spoke about the temporary suspension of treks, citing the chaos caused by an influx of trekkers at Kumaraparvatha on January 26.

He assured that trekking activities would resume from August this year, considering the risks associated with rainy season conditions, which pose threats to both trekkers and the local ecosystem.

Minister Khandre emphasized the consolidation of all trekking routes onto a single online platform for ticket bookings, simplifying access for adventure enthusiasts.

"In cases where tickets are unavailable for one route, trekkers will have the option to book alternative routes through the same online portal," Khandre said.

To prevent overcrowding, the minister proposed technological solutions to limit the number of trekkers per route based on capacity and available amenities, with provisions for third-party oversight to address any complaints of overcrowding.

The state's eco-tourism department currently manages various trekking routes. Similarly, the department has made arrangements for online ticketing systems at popular destinations such as Kudremukh Peak, Netravati Peak, Kodachadri, Kurinjal, Gangadikal, and Narasimha Hill.

Speaking about afforestation efforts, Khandre said that the department plans to plant 12.5 lakh saplings this year, alongside nurturing those planted last year.