Karnataka: Kodagu district to welcome back visitors today

MADIKERI: Kodagu district, a popular tourist destination, will unlock on Saturday after more than two months of Covid-19 restrictions. Shops, restaurants, resorts, homestays and other commercial establishments are preparing to resume business and welcome back visitors.
“We see the decision as a step to financially strengthen the industry, and not as a tool for tourism development,” said BR Nagendra Prasad, the president of the Kodagu Hoteliers and Resort Owners’ Association.
Ambekal Naveen, the joint secretary of the Homestays’ Association, said: “All homestays in the district have remained closed since April 28. After more than 70 days, the business will resume.”
The tourism department’s promoting officer, Chethan, said that all tourist spots would open from Saturday. Kodagu DC Charulatha Somal confirmed the same. “No restrictions will be imposed by the government. However, on the Kodagu-Kerala border, a negative rapid antigen test report or vaccination certificate is mandatory for interstate tourists,” she told TOI.
While most parts of the state unlocked last month, Kodagu and Hassan districts continued to face stringent curbs because of a high positivity rate.