Karnataka State Hotels Association (KSHA) President G.K. Shetty, who was felicitated during the valedictory of Mysore Travel Mart (MTM)-2026 at JCAC in Vijayanagar yesterday, is seen with (from left) MTM-2026 Chairman C.A. Jayakumar, Vice-Chairman C. Narayanagowda, Mysuru Travels Association President B.S. Prashanth, Hotel Owners Credit Co-operative Society President Narayana Hegde and Hotel Owners Association Charitable Trust President Ravi Shastri.

Mysore Travel Mart (MTM)- 2026 has played a significant role in enhancing the global recognition of Mysuru’s tourism and hospitality sectors, said  Karnataka State Hotels Association (KSHA) President G.K. Shetty.

He was speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the three-day MTM-2026, organised by Mysuru Travels Association at Jagannatha Centre for Art and Culture (JCAC) in Vijayanagar yesterday. Stressing the importance of innovation, Shetty said, every profession must continuously adopt new ideas and creative approaches to remain relevant and progress. The tourism sector, too, needs to regularly introduce fresh concepts in tune with changing times to sustain growth, he added.

Observing that Mysuru remains one of Karnataka’s most preferred tourist destinations, Shetty said, visitors continue to admire the city’s rich art, culture and heritage. However, changing travel preferences and increasing dependence on mobile technology have altered tourist expectations.

“Today’s travellers seek newer experiences and are often drawn towards beaches, resorts and other leisure destinations. In such a scenario, stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industries must develop innovative concepts and ensure their effective implementation,” he said.

Kerala Travel Mart: Shetty also underscored the need for Government support in organising Travel Marts, which contribute significantly to the State’s economy. Referring to Kerala’s Travel Mart, held once every two years, he said the event attracts nearly 3,500 tour operators from across the world. “We have similar potential. What is important is maintaining consistency in organising such events,” he noted.

Speaking on the occasion, MTM-2026 Vice-Chairman C. Narayanagowda said, the event is organised biennially to promote tourist destinations in and around Mysuru. “Besides showcasing tourist attractions, the Mart also highlights local cuisine, lifestyle, art and culture to visitors,” he said.

Karnataka Tourism Society President Shyam Raju, MCCI President K.B. Lingaraju and others were present.