Hampi Homestays Face September 30 Deadline to Secure Legal Registration
Koppal, Karnataka | September 28, 2026: Homestay owners in the Hampi World Heritage Area have until September 30 to complete registration and avoid legal action for operating without a licence. The deadline applies to establishments in Anjanadri and 15 villages in the Anegondi region of Gangavathi, where owners must obtain approvals from the gram panchayat and the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority (HWHAMA).
The Koppal district administration has received 36 applications so far and is preparing to issue recognition certificates to eligible homestays that complete the process on time. For owners, the deadline is significant: continuing to accept bookings without registration could invite legal action.
Which Homestays Must Register
The registration initiative covers homestays in Anjanadri and 15 villages in the Anegondi region of Gangavathi that fall within the Hampi World Heritage Area.
Under the applicable guidelines, owners must secure approval from both the local gram panchayat and HWHAMA. The permissions are mandatory for homestays operating within the heritage area.
September 30 Is the Key Deadline
The state government’s initiative gives unauthorised homestays an opportunity to obtain official recognition. Owners have until September 30 to complete the registration process.
Koppal Deputy Commissioner Suresh B Itnal said establishments operating without registration have been directed to secure legal approval by the deadline. The administration has warned that legal action will be initiated against unregistered properties accepting room bookings.
36 Applications Received in Koppal
The Koppal district administration has received 36 applications and is preparing to issue recognition certificates to homestays that meet the requirements and complete registration on time.
The neighbouring Vijayanagara district has received 291 applications. Both districts are part of the Hampi World Heritage region, where tourism-related accommodation is subject to regulatory requirements.
Room Limits and Documents Required
The homestay guidelines specify a minimum of two rooms and a maximum of six rooms. Applicants must also provide adequate accommodation facilities, building permission and land records.
Owners seeking registration can apply through the tourism department’s website and submit the required documents. They should also complete the necessary local and heritage-area approvals.
Why Registration Matters for Homestay Owners
The registration drive follows a tourism department finding that more than 10,000 homestays across Karnataka were operating without licences. The state directed owners to register their establishments, although progress has been slow.
For owners in the Hampi region, registration is not just an administrative formality. It is a requirement for continuing operations legally, particularly when accepting paid tourist bookings.
What Happens After September 30
The Koppal administration is preparing recognition certificates for eligible applicants who complete the process by the deadline. Establishments that continue accepting bookings without registration may face legal action.
Owners who have not yet applied should check the required documents and approvals immediately. With the deadline approaching, completing the process on time will be important for those who want to continue operating their homestays legally.