8 hours ago
NRIs launch curated tour packages for Singaporeans in coastal Karnataka
Mangaluru: Undeterred by the recent setback of direct flights between Mangaluru and Singapore failing to take off, Singapore-based NRIs launched an alternative strategy to boost tourism in Coastal Karnataka.
Their new initiative, a series of curated tour packages for Singaporeans to Mangaluru, aims to significantly increase tourist traffic, ultimately reviving hopes for direct air connectivity.
The first tour, 'Ashta Kshetra Darshan', a five-day spiritual and sightseeing journey, commences on June 13, with an inaugural batch of a small group. This marks a crucial step in showcasing the region's unique appeal. Future plans include 'Exotic Tulunadu' for adventure and beaches, and 'Rome of the East' focusing on historical churches and recreation.
Rajesh H Acharya, director of HQ Connections Pte Ltd, Singapore, curated the tour packages with an aim to promote tourism in Coastal Karnataka, and to encourage direct flights from Singapore to Coastal Karnataka. The Tulu community in Singapore was keen to promote the destination when a direct flight between Singapore and Mangaluru was announced from Jan 2025, but the withdrawn later.
The 'Ashta Kshetra Darshan' is a tour of eight popular temples in Coastal Karnataka, which is offered through tour operator Udupi Vaibhav.
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A native Singaporean couple, Asokan and Mohanammbal, are excited about joining the tour as their 14-year wish to visit Kollur Mookambika temple is coming true. They are third-generation Singapore citizen of Tamil origins. "About 14 years ago, I went to Thiruvarur to my son-in-law's village where I met a local diamond merchant who gave me the picture of Kollur Amma and told me to visit her.
I am excited to take this journey," shared Mohanammbal.
Acharya said that this trip will be held every month, and two more packages will be introduced from Sept: Exotic Tulunadu and Rome of the East—10 churches visit, sightseeing, and recreation. "The initiative seeks support from the global Tulu community to promote tourism and strengthen the case for a direct flight between destinations. Soon we will also contact all the Indian communities here in Singapore to support it," said Acharya, adding that the tour packages aim to target more than 2 lakh Indian expats and Singaporeans.
