Karnataka University Dharwad becomes the only South Indian university selected for the European Union's Sacred Travel for Growth project, strengthening global tourism research collaborations
Dharwad: The Department of Tourism Studies at Karnataka University has achieved a significant international milestone by participating in a prestigious study visit to Slovenia as part of the European Union-funded "Sacred Travel for Growth" project. The university has earned the distinction of being the only university from South India selected to participate in the international research initiative, highlighting its growing presence in global tourism and heritage studies.
The international study programme was hosted at ZRC SAZU, Ljubljana, Slovenia, where researchers from Karnataka University explored global best practices in religious tourism, cultural heritage conservation, and sustainable tourism development alongside experts and partner institutions from several countries.
Karnataka University Represents South India in EU Tourism Research Project
Representing Karnataka University during the study visit were Dr Jagadish Kivadannavar, Director and Research Project Officer of the Department of Tourism Studies, and Dr Sushma Malgi, Senior Researcher.
The delegation participated in academic sessions, field visits, and knowledge-sharing programmes focusing on the sustainable management of pilgrimage destinations, preservation of cultural heritage, and the evolving role of religious tourism in regional development.
"Karnataka University is the only university from South India selected for this prestigious European Union research project, marking a major achievement for the institution's tourism studies programme."
Research Focused on Religious Tourism and Cultural Heritage
As part of the study visit, the research team visited several internationally renowned historical, religious, and cultural destinations across Slovenia to gain practical insights into heritage management and sustainable tourism practices.
The sites covered during the programme included:
- Postojna Cave
- Predjama Castle
- Ljubljana City Museum
- Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, Brezje
- Medieval town of Radovljica
- Traditional Apiary and Museum
- Šmarna Gora pilgrimage site
- Franciscan Library
- St. Nicholas Cathedral
- Trud Pilgrimage Institute
These visits enabled researchers to study heritage conservation models, religious tourism infrastructure, and destination management practices adopted in Europe.
Experts Discuss Sustainable Pilgrimage Tourism
The programme featured extensive discussions with international experts on several emerging areas of tourism research, including:
- Sustainable development of pilgrimage destinations
- Cultural and heritage conservation
- Religious traditions and practices
- Local history and architecture
- UNESCO-recognised beekeeping heritage
- Religious entrepreneurship
- Place-making and heritage-making strategies
Researchers from Karnataka University also exchanged ideas and experiences with scholars and partner institutions from multiple countries, fostering international academic collaboration.
Global Research Opportunities for Karnataka University Dharwad
According to the Department of Tourism Studies, the study visit has created new opportunities for collaborative research, academic partnerships, and international knowledge exchange.
The programme offered valuable exposure to the global dimensions of religious tourism, environmentally sustainable destination development, local cultural preservation, and integrated pilgrimage site management. The experience is expected to strengthen future research initiatives and expand Karnataka University's international academic network.
European Union Project Led by International Experts
The "Sacred Travel for Growth" project is led by Prof. Konsta, Dean of Logos University, Albania.
The Slovenia study visit was coordinated by an international team comprising Dr. Natasha Gregoric Bon, Dr. Maya Petrovic-Steger, Dr. Marjeta Pisk, Dr. Martina Bofulin, Dr. Natasha Rogelja Kaf, Dr. Shpela Ledinek Loje, and Dr. Tiva Vlaj, who facilitated the academic programme and research activities.
