Hampi's tourist numbers plummet amid K'taka's heatwave and drought

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Amidst scorching temperatures in Karnataka, Hampi, a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site, has seen its lowest tourist numbers in a decade.

According to Hosapete's Deputy Commissioner, MS Divakar, while the site usually welcomes around 5,000 visitors daily, soaring temperatures reaching 42 degrees Celsius have slashed weekend footfalls to about 150 and mere double digits on weekdays.

Divakar voiced concerns over the severe impact on local livelihoods, especially for vendors and small businesses, noting, "Our only hope lies in a two-day rainfall."

He also pointed out that earlier in January, Hampi saw a robust 25,000 visitors daily, with the Hampi Utsav drawing nearly 15 lakh tourists over three days.

The ongoing heatwave, coupled with a drastic reduction in rainfall, has intensified Karnataka's challenges.

A resident commented on the situation, highlighting inadequate tourist facilities and the pressing need for hotels near Hampi's iconic temple to cater to the working class.

Further compounding the issue, the local hotel industry is grappling with a significant downturn, witnessing occupancy rates plummet to a mere 30 per cent amidst the dwindling tourist influx.