Bengaluru: In an attempt to get the hospitality services in Karnataka to pull up their socks, the Tourism ministry of Karnataka has made it mandatory for all ‘home stays’ in the state to register under the official government portal or else be closed down for good.
The respective owners would be required to apply for registration online and receive self-certification through providing personal details, photographs of accommodation, list of amenities and tariff details along with ownership documents and NOC from local bodies and the police station, through the official website of the Karnataka tourism department.
Home stays, now an integral part of state tourism, are not too well maintained, one of the reasons why they have become a hub for illegal activities, said Priyank Karge, Tourism Minister.
“There are about 4,000 home stays in Coorg alone and another 2,000 in Chikkamagaluru. We have been getting many complaints regarding security problems in these home stays. They have one empty room and they call it a home stay or a resort. They aren’t maintained up to the mark. For a tourist, security is very important. These places have also become a den for illegal activities and this needs to be checked.” he told DC.
This would be beneficial to the home stays as well. Once they register, the home stays will be rated within 3 to 5 stars and the government will also help in promotional activities.
“They will be rated according to their maintenance and amenities. Once rated, we can help promote them. It could bring in an additional income for the home owners and also be an enjoyable business,” said Mr Kharge.
The home stays will aim to provide a clean and affordable evironment for international and domestic tourists. “They give an opportunity to explore the culture and cuisine of Karnataka at an affordable price, while a good experience is ensured.” he added.
The fee for registration has been set at Rs 500 and the home stay owners have been given a three-month window until November 15. “We have given them time to register at the portal. If they don’t, it’s simple, we will shut them down,” Mr Kharge warned.
