karnataka tourist places wikipedia

• 3.1 Historical
• 3.2 Waterfalls
• 3.3 National parks
• 3.4 Beaches
• 4.1 History
• 4.3 Flora and fauna
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2 By train
• 7.3 By plane
• 7.4 By train
• 8.1 Religious sites
• 8.2 Museums
• 8.3 Waterfalls
• 8.4 Adventure sports
• 8.5 Botanical and rock gardens
• 9.1 Scuba diving
• 9.2 Trekking
• 13.1 Budget
• 13.2 Mid-range
• 13.3 Splurge
• 14 Stay safe

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Karnataka\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> A state in Southern India , Karnataka stretches from Belgaum in the north to Mangalore in the south. It has a coastal region with numerous coconut trees and beautiful beaches and an interior with mountains, valleys and farmlands. It has the largest population of tigers in the world.

• 12.97912 77.5913 1 Bangalore (Bengaluru) — the state capital as well as the information technology capital of India
• 15.856944 74.504444 2 Belgaum (Belagavi) — the commercial hub in North Karnataka and the second biggest overall export powerhouse in Karnataka after Bangalore
• 13.164167 75.864722 3 Belur — the former capital of the Hoysalla dynasty; Hale Belur is the older capital
• Hubli (Hubballi) — the fastest-growing city in Karnataka after Bangalore
• 17.333333 76.833333 4 Kalaburagi (Gulbarga) — centre for northern division of the state, with the historical Gulbarga Fort
• 12.868056 74.8425 5 Mangalore (Mangaluru) — the chief port city of Karnataka and second IT destination in Karnataka after Bangalore
• Manipal — in Udupi (district) . home to Manipal University and Syndicate Bank
• 12.308611 76.653056 6 Mysore (Mysuru) — erstwhile capital of the Kingdom of Mysore that ruled over much of present-day Karnataka, Mysore city is also known worldwide as the 'City of Palaces'
• 12.716667 77.3 7 Ramanagara — the sericulture (silk) capital in Karnataka, also known as Silk City or Silk Town

Other destinations

Below is a selective list of sites of interest in Karnataka. It is far from exhaustive. For other sites, check regional articles.

• 15.9167 75.6833 1 Badami Cave Temples in Bagalakote district — Badami was the capital of the Early Chalukyas, who ruled much of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh between the 6th and 8th centuries. It was founded in 540 A.D. by Pulakesi I (535-566 AD), an early ruler of the Chalukyas.

• 15.335 76.462 2 Hampi — the ruins of the fabulous Vijayanagar Empire. Considered to be one of the finest cities in its time circa 14th and 15th centuries. Hampi Utsav in the 1st week of November celebrates its history. The ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage site .
• Hoysala Structures The Hoysala structures of Shri Chennakeshava Temple at Somanathapura, Belur and Halebeedu are an added attraction in the southern part of the State.
• 12.294 77.168 3 Shivasamudram — the walk down to the base of the waterfall is nice, and you can take a coracle ride by paying ?50 per person. You can also swim at the base of the waterfall.
• Jog Falls — A beautiful waterfall in Shimoga district, famous for the hydroelectricity project, a major tourist attraction. Raja, Rani, Roarer, Rocket are the 4 splits of the falls, collectively forming the Jog falls
• Coorg Various waterfalls like the Abbey Falls, the Cauvery and Lakshmana tirtha dot this district, as its various tributaries flow down to the Plateau.
• Belgaum Bordering the Goa/Maharashtra State, this district has various gushing falls like Godachinamulki, Gokak Falls, Dudhsagar Falls formed by the various west-flowing rivers like Kali river and small tributaries like Mallaprabha which join the River Krishna
• Sirsi Bordering the Western Ghats, Sirsi and Yellapura have various waterfalls formed by the West Flowing rivers, like Unchalli Falls, Sathod Fallf

National parks

Wildlife in Karnataka is administered under such institutions as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and bird sanctuaries initiatives.

Karnataka has 5 declared national parks that abound in diverse flora and fauna, including:

• 14.9981 74.35875 4 Anshi National Park — A tiger reserve next to the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.
• 11.661667 76.627222 5 Bandipur National Park — 890 km² area wildlife sanctuary in Chamarajanagar district.
• 12.77012 77.56777 6 Bannerghatta National Park — just 22 km from the heart of Bangalore . A zoological reserve with 104 km², a zoo, safari and butterfly enclosure. The Park is surrounded by the Bannerghatta tropical deciduous forest and an important elephant corridor on the Karnataka-Tamilnadu border
• B.R.Hills Forest Range Deriving the name from the Biligiri Ranganna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the area borders the Sathyamangalam Forests of Tamilnadu and is a major elephant Habitat.
• 13.12951 75.26855 7 Kudremukh National Park — 600 km² area in Dakshina Kannada , Udupi and Chikamaglur district.
• 12.06 76.151111 8 Nagarhole National Park — 643 km² area in Kodagu and Mysore District.
• Jayamangali Black buck Sanctuary — Black Buck Sanctuary, near Madhugiri of Tumkur District, about 140 km from Bangalore
• Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary — Sloth Bear Sanctuary in Bellary District, near Tornagallu
• Bhadra Tiger Reserve – Bhadra Tiger Reserve is spread over two revenue districts of Chicmagalur and Shivamogga. It covers catchment area of Bhadra river.
• Devarayandurga Reserve forest Bordering the Tumkur Ditrict, famous for the Narasimha Temple, this forest is home to the leopards, along with other wildlife and birds. No permission provided for staying in the forest, however sightings possible en route to the Temples depending on luck

Coastal Karnataka is dotted along with beaches forming the complete Coastline.

• Karwar Bordering the Goa state, this not so crowded beach sees a major inflow from Goa tourism
• Gokarna Though famous for the Pilgrim place and Athmalingam Temple, this place is dotted with Beaches far away from the Pilgrim site. Om Beach, Half-moon Beach are most common. Beach treks are a common affair
• Murudeshwar Famous for the Lord Shiva temple, in relation to the Gokarna Temple, the beach is one of the safest beaches for play
• Maravanthe The beach on the national highway, bordered by the river on the other side of the road
• Udupi Malpe Beach, about 7 km from Uudpi, is a famous attraction. St. Mary's Island (Tonsepar), 8 km from the coast, is accessible from ferry from this point. The beach has a walkway
• Mangalore A business town. Tannerubhavi, Panamburu, Surathkal, Ullal and Someshwar Beaches form the major attraction.

Karnataka is the 7th-largest state in India in area and 8th-largest by population. Karnataka is bordered by Maharashtra in the north, Goa in the north west, Tamil Nadu in the south east, Kerala in the south west, Andhra Pradesh in the east and Telangana in the north east.

In the 3rd century BCE, the region we now know as Karnataka came under the Maurya emperors of Magadha. Chandragupta, the founder, is said to have spent his retirement in Shravanabelagola as a Jain ascetic. Jainism, introduced by the Mauryas, survives and flourishes to this day in Karnataka, and has given it some of its finest and oldest attractions including the Gomateswara statues that stand tall in their majestic nakedness in multiple places in the state. The Mauryas were followed by the Satavahanas who ruled from Pratishtana in Maharashtra and Amaravathi in present day Andhra Pradesh. Their reign lasted over 400 years, ending in the 3rd century CE They in turn were followed by the Kadambas of Banavasi , and the Western Ganga dynasty that ruled the region that is now Mysore . They are considered the first Kannada rulers. During the time of the Kadambas, the first works in Kannada were written by Adikavi (or first poet) Pampa, who wrote that even torture by an elephant bullhook would not make him forget the beauty of his beloved Banavasi.

The Chalukyas, the Rashtrakutas and the Hoysalas were the other major dynasties who ruled major parts of Karnataka from the 7th to 12th centuries. They are responsible for many of the temples that survive to this day and are considered architectural marvels, These include Pattadakal, Belur and Halebeedu.

The Cholas seem to have had a hold on the Southern Part of Karnataka, with various Dravidian Architecture Temples adorning the regions of Bangalore and Kolar.

Hoysala Dynasty ruled over the Mysore region and have developed structures, majorly a star shaped design occupying their designs in various Temples. The Period around 9th to 11th century seem to have been in the hands of the hoysalas, especially the Mysore region.

The Vijayanagara Empire ruled over much of what's now Karnataka and the larger Deccan Plateau from the mid-13th to the mid-16th century. The ruins of Hampi provide a glimpse into the splendor of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The Kingdom of Mysore in the early 14th century was centered around their capital city of Mysore which was then a small town ruled by the Wodeyar Dyanasty. The kingdom remained small till the 16th Century.

The Bijapur Sultanate rose into prominence after defeating the Vijayanagara Empire in 1565. Bijapur was the capital of the Adilshah Dynasty which ruled the region. Bijapur is a historic place with lots of archaeological sites — most notably Gol Gumbaz, the largest dome in Asia.

After the defeat of the Bijapur Sultanate by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the mid 16th Century the Wodeyar Dynasty expanded the Mysore Kingdom by leasing land from Aurangzeb. This enabled the kingdom to remain prominent.

In 1857 the British took over what is now India , Pakistan and Bangladesh and this period of rule was known as the British Raj .

The Wodeyars continued their rule as an independent kingdom under the British Raj by paying tribute till India's independence in 1947. After India's independence the Kingdom of Mysore became an Indian state. The city of Mysore has so many surviving palaces that it is known today as the "City of Palaces".

The Wodeyars' immense contribution in various fields - education, arts, governance, industry and infrastructure - laid the foundation for the rise of Karnataka after India's independence.

Mysore painting - Mysore is famous for the Mysore style of painting that is well known for its attention to detail. Some of the best examples of this style are inside the Mysore Palace.

Flora and fauna

Karnataka is known for its wealth of flora and fauna. Around 25% of India's elephants and 10% of its tigers are in Karnataka. Many regions in Karnataka are as yet unexplored, leading to new discoveries of flora and fauna. The Western Ghats teem with wildlife and are an acknowledged bio diversity hotspot .

Kannada is the official language and is spoken by virtually all of the state's inhabitants. Dialects of the language spoken in each of the regions differ from each other. Regional dialects in the state are influenced by the languages of neighbouring states, and sometimes a person from the southern region may find it difficult to understand the Kannada spoken in the northern region.

Like with the rest of South India, Hindi is not widely spoken nor understood, save for a few urban areas. People will respond more readily to English than Hindi.

In the districts along the borders of neighbouring states, people do speak multiple languages and many of them can speak the language of their neighbours across the border. In the Northern Karnataka region, many people can understand Hindi/Urdu in the districts of Bidar , Gulbarga and Yadgir and Telugu in Raichur and Bellary districts, while in the Belgaum and Bijapur districts bordering Maharastra in the Northwestern Karnataka region, people can speak Marathi.

Kempegowda International Airport ( BLR   IATA ) in Bangalore Rural is the 3rd-busiest airport in India, connecting with major state capitals and cities as well as 20 international destinations.

Mangalore International Airport serves primarily the Gulf region, and domestically, the four metro cities– Delhi , Kolkata , Chennai and Mumbai and the state capital of Bangalore .

Hubli Airport at Hubli – Dharwad serves the northern part of Karnataka with regular flights to Mumbai and Bangalore.

Karnataka is served by South Western Railway and connected to all major railway stations across the country. Major junctions are Bangalore , Hubli , Mysore , Mangalore (Served by Konkan Railway & Southern Railway), and Gulbarga .

Rajdhani - superfast fully air-conditioned trains connecting India 's capital New Delhi with Bangalore via Raichur and Secunderabad . This is a long-distance train which takes just under 34 hours to cover the journey.

Shatabdi - superfast fully air-conditioned day trip trains which connects Mysore and Bangalore with Chennai

Jan Shatabdi- Superfast with AC and Non-AC Reserved Accommodation, fastest connection between Hubli and Bangalore

Bangalore is well connected to the metro cities of Kolkata , Chennai , Mumbai , New Delhi , Ahmedabad , Hyderabad , and major other Capital cities across the country.

Hubli falls on the junction of Bangalore Mumbai Line and Vijayawada Vasco railway and is connected to Kolkata , Mumbai Bangalore , New Delhi , Ahmedabad and Hyderabad .

Mangalore falls at junction of Southern Railway and Konkan Railway and is well connected to major northern states of Maharashtra , Gujarat , Rajasthan , Delhi , as well as to Kerala and Tamil Nadu .

Gulbarga falls on the Mumbai- Chennai & Hyderabad Main line and is connected to Mumbai , New Delhi, Hyderabad , Tirupati and Chennai through long distant trains

A number of national highways link Karnataka with the neighboring states of Maharashtra , Kerala , Andhra Pradesh , Telangana , Pondicherry , Goa and Tamil Nadu .

Karnataka government-owned and -operated Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) connects Karnataka with the neighboring states of Tamil Nadu , Kerala , Andhra Pradesh , Telangana , Maharashtra , Goa and the Union Territory of Pondicherry . KSRTC provides trip planning, hotels and ticketing on KSRTC [ dead link ] as well as smartphone apps for Android and IOS. KSRTC reservation counters are available at their bus terminals and their numerous dedicated travel agents located across the state. Discounts are provided for return journeys purchased online. KSRTC has dedicated bus terminals across Karnataka and in other states use dedicated sections of the government-run Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBT) that are run by respective state governments. Tickets of KSRTC buses can be booked online [ dead link ]

Other state-owned bus operators from Tamil Nadu , Kerala , Goa , Andhra Pradesh also provide inter-state bus services into Karnataka with dedicated ticketing services on their websites.

The numerous private bus operators also provide inter-state bus services into Karnataka. The private bus operators operate from the ISBT located in the states. They feature their own stops as well as schedules. Ticket booking for the various private operators is available online as well as owned booking offices for most operators. Some larger private operators maintain individual websites for ticketing services. Travel agents across Karnataka provide bus tickets for the private bus operators.

KSRTC , mentioned in "Get in", also plies intrastate buses connecting most of Karnataka. NWKRTC [ dead link ] and NEKRTC [ dead link ] buses serve the northern part of Karnataka state and to some places of adjoing states.

Services available:

• Nagara Sarige : City Bus Services in the major District Headquarters from Central bus stand to important places
• Gramanthara Sarige : Rural services operated from the District Headquarters to the nearby Towns for daily passengers livelihood
• Karnataka Sarige : Express Services with limited stops connecting Major Towns
• Rajahamsa :Non-A/C Semi Sleeper Deluxe buses which are comfortable for short distances and cheapest for longer journeyconnecting important Towns Intra state as well as inter state. Similar Service operated by NEKRTC is named as Suhas
• Airavat :Semi-sleeper Volvo a/c buses
• Non-AC Sleeper : Operated between major Towns and long distant at a cheaper rate than the AC sleeper buses on Tata and Ashok Leyland Chassis
• Ambari : AC Sleeper Bus operated on Corona Chassis
• Club Class Airavat : Semi-sleeper Volvo multi-axle a/c buses with B9R & B11R chassis
• FlyBus : Volvo multi-axle a/c buses direct connection from Mysore , Madikeri , Kundapura and Salem to Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore . Bus features in-bus Pantry as well as chemical toilets.

The Subsidiaries of KSRTC provide bus services in Karnataka as follows:

• Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) - bus services within the city of Bangalore as well as some outlying areas.
• North Western Karnataka (NWKRTC) - bus services in North Western Karnataka and the adjoining states of Maharashtra , Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu .
• North Eastern Karnataka (NEKRTC) - bus services in North Eastern Karnataka, Maharashtra and Telangana

Numerous private bus operators like VRL , SRS, Ganesh and SUGAMA provide bus services for interstate areas, as well as to the neighboring states. Travel agents provide tickets as well as private package tours for various destinations across Karnataka. The

All major cities in Karnataka are well connected by a mix of national and state highways. Tolled roads are applicable on the newer highways as well as certain areas within Bangalore such as Bangalore Elevated Tollway located on the outskirts of Bangalore on the way to Hosur .

Kempegowda International Airport serves most domestic routes in India.

Mangalore International Airport also serves domestic destinations.

Domestic-only airports in Karnataka with varying service levels include Hubli , Belgaum , Hampi , Vidhyanagar and Mysore . These airports also connect with the Kempegowda International Airport in the state capital of Bangalore .

There are trains run by Indian Railways originating from major cities of Karnataka like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubbali and connecting to different places in Karnataka.

Thanks to its long and varied history Karnataka has an interesting mix of religious sites, remnants of historical empires, UNESCO World Heritage Sites , national parks, bird sanctuaries, wildlife sanctuaries, palaces, forts, beaches, hill stations, caves and waterfalls.

Religious sites

Owing to the multi-religious influence in Karnataka through its history, there are a vast number of religious sites in Karnataka, some even dating from antiquity. Belur and Hale Belur are home to ancient Hindu temples. Kudalasangama is a pilgrimage center for people of the Lingayat faith and is at the confluence of the Krishna and the Malaprabha rivers. Murudeshwara has a beautiful Shiva statue situated on the tallest place on the Arabian Sea coast, with a colorful panorama. Shravanabelagola is a Jain Pilgrimage centre and home to the biggest monolithic (single stone) statue of Babhubali in Karnataka. The statue is visible from a distance of 30 km. Udupi Krishna matha and Kollur Mookambika Temple are also very ancient Hindu temple in Karavali region.

One of the oldest mosques of Karnataka is in the Kalaburagi Fort, built in 1367 by the Bahmani King Muhammad Shah I. It is the biggest mosque in Karnataka, and when compared in plan and design, the mosque resembles the mosque at Cardova in Spain . The Jamiya mosque in Bijapur is another huge monument built by Adilshah in 16th century. It has a proportionate dome and its mihrab is gorgeously painted. The Malika Jahan mosque in black stone is another notable mosque in Bijapur. Bidar has the famous Solha-kamb mosque with 16 cylindrical pillars built in the year 1423. The Andu masjid of Bijapur, Mahal masjid of Afzalpur in Kalaburgi district and the Khali masjid of Åland in Bidar district built during Adilshahi period are some beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in Karnataka. The Mausoleum of Ahmed Shah Wali, at Ashtur near Bidar is a tall structure with paintings in it. This prince is venerated as a saint by both the Hindus and Muslims. Vijayapura has two princely Mausoleums, Ibrahim Rauza, a twin structure is standing on an arched platform. The Gol Gumbaz is another famous mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah.

The Government Museum built in the year 1880 in Bangalore has a collection of ancient arms, a sculpture gallery and a collection of old coins. There are exclusive painting collections of noted artists like K. Venkatappa and K.K. Hebbar. Jaganmohan Art Gallery housed in an old palace of Mysore has fine art works (including some by Raja Ravi Varma) in colours, metals, ivory and wood but a huge collection of musical instruments too of yore. The Mysore Palace has a large collection of art works from various countries, besides a gallery of armory.

At the district museum in Shimoga in an old palace, queer items of Keladi rulers are preserved. The Kalaburagi Museum has the items of Bahmanshahi times and huge collection of Buddhist sculptures (Decorative plaques) from Sannati . Museum in Chitradurga has many antiquities connected with the local chieftains, hero-stones, weapons and other items. There are Karnataka State Government Museums at Kittur, Hassan , Keladi, Raichur , Basavakalyana , Huvina Hadagali, Dharwad , Gadag and Srirangapatna .

Waterfalls are one of the major tourist attractions in Karnataka, many of which are primarily located in Malenadu , Cauvery Basin and Karavali regions. Best time to visit these waterfalls would be during rainy season months of June, July, August or post-rainy seasons between September to October months. Jog falls near Sagara in Shimoga district is one of the highest waterfalls in India and Abbey Falls, Achakanya falls, Balmuri falls, Chunchanakatte falls, Gokak falls are some of the other well known falls among the many waterfalls of Karnataka.

• Hebbe Falls, Kalhatti Falls, Kallathagiri Falls, Shanti Falls in Chikmagalur district.
• Netgodu Falls, Hosagodu Falls, Muktihole Falls, Konala Falls, Vibhooti Falls, Devakar Falls, Vajragundi Falls in Uttara Kannada district.
• Onake Abbi Falls, Hidlumane Falls, Dabbe Falls, Bheemeshwara Falls in Shivamogga district.
• Hallihole Falls, Thombattu Falls, Kunchikal Falls, Kudlu or Koodlu Falls, Koosali or Kusalli Falls, Belkal theertha Falls in Udupi district.

Adventure sports

Dandeli is popular for trekking, river rafting and wildlife discovery

Botanical and rock gardens

The Brindavan Gardens offer ornamental gardens adjoining the Krishnarajasagara Dam (also known as KRS dam) located in Mandya District near the city of Mysore . In Bangalore Urban District, look for Cubbon Park and Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Tungabhadra dam near Hosapete has also beautiful garden.

Scuba diving

Pigeon Island (Netrani Island) lies about 12 nautical miles (22 km) off the coast of Murudeshwar in Karnataka. It is a 4-hour drive from Goa , or can be reached by Konkan Railway, with Murudeshwar and Bhatkal being the nearest stations. The Dreamz Diving is the only local dives centers here. Please check in advance with them as quite a few times due to Navy training the place is closed for scuba diving.

The visibility here is generally in the 15-20m range and the dive sites are 10-30 m. Marine life is spectacular, with huge schools of jacks, barracuda, triggerfish and fusiliers. Many times giant groupers, black tip sharks, kobias and giant tunas are spotted here, as are whales, whale sharks, orcas, dolphins, have been spotted by many divers at Netrani Island.

Netrani is considered to be the best dive location from main land India which is accessible within a day's trip to Murudeshwar.

There are plenty of companies in Bangalore who arrange for weekend scuba diving trips to Netrani.

Trekking is the best way to discover the natural beauty of Karnataka. Trekking is the most popular adventure sport for the nature enthusiasts in Karnataka.

There are many places for trekkers starting from the southern parts of the Sahyadri hills to the Western Ghats of Kodagu. Most of the trekking places are found in Uttara Kannada (North Canara) district, Dakshina Kannada (South Canara) district, Shimoga district, Chikmagalur district and Kodagu district.

Kodagu and Chikmagalur districts cover unknown and very beautiful trekking places. These places are well known for beautiful mountain ranges, national parks, forests, wild animals and waterfalls.

The following are popular places for trekking in Karnataka.

• Agumbe and Kodachadri , in Shimoga
• Anthargange in Kolar
• Kudremukh and Narasimha Parvatha , in Chikmagalur
• Kumara Parvatha and Yedakumeri, Ettina Bhuja, Amedikallu, Ombattu gudde , in Dakshina Kannada
• Siddara Betta in Tumkur
• Tadiyandamol in Kodagu
• Makalidurga , Kabbaladurga , Savandurga, Bhairavadurga, Nandidurga, Channarayanadurga, Huthridurga, Huliyurdurga, Devarayanadurga all near to Bangalore city.

Gokarna , Udupi and Shringeri are well-known centres for the study of Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy.

Karnataka is known for a wide variety of local fast foods which are available at outlets everywhere. Some are standalone outlets while others are well known names with branch locations. The outlets are self-service where you stand and eat, although some of the newer ones provide sit-down table service for a higher charge. The outlets are open throughout the day and popular during breakfast and lunch. Some outlets specialize, while others have more variety as indicated in their menus.Udupi cuisine (vegetarian) is known worldwide through Udupi hotels and restaurants.

These are a few specialty dishes you can feast on in Karnataka:

• Bisibele Baath - As the name suggests, it is served hot. It's made of rice and lentils and a lot of spices.
• Chutney - A favourite accompaniment eaten with dosa, idli, vada, chutney can be prepared from virtually anything including vegetables (tomato), fruit (mango), nuts (groundnuts) or chopped coconut. Chutney is prepared fresh every day for optimal taste and can be stored for few days.
• Dharwad Peda - A sweet delicacy created in the city of Dharwad . Made from milk, thickened milk and sugar. Also available at Nandini branded milk booths of the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) a milk co-operative in Karnataka.
• Dosa - A thin dough fried until crisp, usually served as One Serving. To eat, the pieces are broken off and dipped in the amazing chutney and sambar served in bowls accompanying the dish. Numerous varieties of dosa are found across Karnataka like 'masala dosa', 'set-dosa' (soft spongy fluffy dosa served as a pack of 3 or 4 with vegetable curry, kurma or sambar and tomato-onion chutney), 'benne-dosa (a dash of butter added to standard dosa preparation for distinctive flavor and aroma), rava-dosa (rava - sooji or semolina), etc. Neer or Bajjare dosa is a delicacy unique to coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi .
• Idli - Idli, also romanised "idly", is made by steaming batter, that is traditionally made from black lentils and rice into patties using a two to three inch diameter mold. Traditionally a breakfast dish since it is light yet wholesome. The shape and size of the "idli" moulds varies across Karnataka. Always accompanied by steaming hot sambar and fresh chutney that vary in preparation region wise. Variations include 'Tatte idli' (tatte - plate in Kannada), 'rava (sooji or semolina) idli' are a popular specialty in some outlets.
• Jolada Roti - A thin tortilla made of jowar (aka jawar, similar to corn / millet / maize) baked on both sides for 2-3 minutes. Jowar is specially grown in the northern part of Karnataka which is the 2nd most arid region of India. Served with brinjal curry (various types of preparations) and chutney (peanuts and garlic variant). A staple diet in Northern Karnataka and the border areas with Maharashtra.
• Kesari Bhath - Originally a dessert item, this is now popular as breakfast. Made with sooji (semolina), ghee (for taste), water and milk. Garnished with cashew nuts and dried fruits for added taste. In some parts of Karnataka it is known as Shira .
• Mysore Pak - A sweet delicacy created in the Royal Kitchen of Mysore under the Wodeyars. Made with gram (chana) flour, ghee and sugar. Available across Karnataka.
• Raagi and Akki Rotis - Similar to tortillas but made of raagi (English: coracan, finger millet) or rice flour and black cumin, asafoetida, fresh coriander, green chillies and finely chopped onions.
• Raagi Mudde – A staple food in the interior since preparation is simple. Basically cook raagi flour in water and roll into thick-consistency balls. Raagi mudde is swallowed and not chewed after dipping it in ghee and sambar.
• Upma - prepared as a thick porridge from soji (semolina) with cut vegetables and seasonings. Served hot and a popular breakfast item.
• Uttapam - a dosa like dish with toppings cooked into the batter during frying. This is thick, unlike Dosas which are crisp.
• Vada - A fried savory doughnut. This is consumed along with idli and known as idli-vada .Vada are very popular item at breakfast time since it is light yet wholesome. Vadas are available on Indian Railways and most transport hubs all day. Although deep fried in boiling oil, this is not oily when fried correctly. Served with steaming hot sambar and chutney.
• Badam milk - crushed almond powder mixed with milk and is served hot or cold as preferred.
• Filter coffee - unique varieties of preparation, famous across Karnataka. Without chicory.
• Tea - grown in the various tea gardens in the mountainous Western Ghats in Karnataka and elsewhere in India provide great variations in taste.
• Tender coconut - naturally sterile and available everywhere. The best thirst quencher during the hot Indian summer. An all natural health drink due to its high mineral content.

Karnataka provides a wide variety of accommodation to suit the budget of every kind of traveller. The international chains like Hyatt are not limited to the state capital of Bangalore , but are also present at the smaller cities like Hampi as well with a similar experience as checking into London or Paris or for that matter New York City . The well known domestic hotel chains provide accommodation options at various price points with multiple hotels in some cities across the budget range. Home stays are a New and fast growing option for those who would like to experience the native life and are around places as divergent as Chikmagalur or even Nandi Hills .

The Karnataka-Govt owned Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) also runs in-house branded hotels which range from Budget to Luxury at many of the tourist destinations located around the state.

Budget hotels also called lodges are found near the transport hubs (railway stations and bus stands) as well as the central areas of most cities and towns. Meals are had at the nearby local fast food joint .

Medium range hotels comprise national and notable foreign chains with a range of options to suit the budget. Buffet breakfast is provided as part of the room charges or chargeable separately. In Bangalore for the Upper Medium Range hotels a continental breakfast (chicken variant is provided instead of pork - chicken sausage, chicken ham, chicken salami) and is provided alongside the typical South Indian breakfast of idli , vada , dosa , upma , etc. as well as the local specialty items termed Today's Special . Some properties provide only South Indian buffet breakfast. Most of the district headquarters like Mangaluru, Udupi, Dharwad, Belagavi, Davangere, Shivamogga, Ballari, Vijayapura, Kalburgi, and Bagalkote have medium priced hotels for stay and dining.

The high-end 5-star and 5-star deluxe hotels are similar to what's offered across India's major cities with domestic as well as international chains and standalone properties. Multiple properties belonging to the same chain adhering to customer categories are found especially in Bangalore . Additionally in Bangalore breakfast includes continental breakfast, specific menu's typical of their target clientele (Japanese, South Korean, etc.) and the specialties of various Indian Breakfasts like idli , vada , dosa , upma , poha , parantha with Mosaru (curd) including Today's Special . One can try the local breakfasts to get a hang of the varied tastes of India.

• People of Karnataka are friendly by nature and will help you in many ways. However, common crimes such as theft and purse-snatching do occur so be careful with your valuables.
• When travelling late at night, a group offers better safety and protection.
• Police assistance is available by dialing 100 from land line phones or mobiles.
• Bangalore City Police provides Mobile Patrol Vans Hoysala and bike patrols Cheetah . These vehicles provide first response in emergency situations.
• It is advisable not to venture into sea at certain beaches like Surathkal , Taneerubhavi, Panamburu, Malpe and Ullala.
• Before trekking in reserved forests take permission from Karnataka forest department (Forest Range Officers). Also carry Water, Torch, Whistle, Food, Medicine and appropriate clothes before trekking. Medical emergency facilities within and in vicinity of reserved forests and national parks are poor.
• Airtel, Reliance Jio, Vodafone-Idea & BSNL mobile phone signals are available at most places in the state.
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Tourist Places in Karnataka

Here are the top 100 places to visit in karnataka in 2024:.

1 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 37 Tourist attractions

Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is a popular coffee producing hill station. It is popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them. It also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people....

Best Time: October to March

2 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 14 Tourist attractions

Located in a valley of rugged red sandstone, surrounding the Agastya Lake, Badami (formerly known as Vatapi) is an archaeological delight owing to its beautifully crafted sandstone cave temples, fortresses and carvings. Located in the Bagalkot district in Karnataka, Badami is part of the UNESCO Worl...

Best Time: October to Apr

3 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 36 Tourist attractions

Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore, currently Mysuru, is one of the most important places in the country regarding ancient reigns. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and ...

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 31 Tourist attractions

Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the state of Karnataka, this place is a historical delight for travellers. Surrounded by 500 ancient monuments, beautiful temples, bustling street markets, bastions, treasury building an...

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Karnataka Wildlife Tour Package with Jungle Safari

Quintessential karnataka package: bangalore, mysore, coorg, hills & heritage of karnataka & tamilnadu: ooty, kodaikanal, mysore & more, 5 nights 6 days serene chikamagalur, coorg package, leisure & heritage package: chikmagalur & hampi from bangalore, experience karnataka family package.

5 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 20 Tourist attractions

With its pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes, Gokarna is a Hindu pilgrimage town in Karnataka and a newly found hub for beach lovers and hippies. Situated on the coast of Karwar, every year Gokarna welcomes hordes of tourists from around the world in search of sanctity and relaxat...

6 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 31 Tourist attractions

Udupi is a coastal town in Karnataka, most famous for its vegetarian cuisine and South Indian restaurants all over the country. With beautifully carved ancient temples, laidback beaches and unexplored forests, Udupi is also the place where the educational hub of Manipal is located. Situated 60 ...

7. Chikmagalur

7 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 22 Tourist attractions

Popularly known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’, Chikmagalur is situated in the foothills of the Mullayangiri Range and is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Karnataka. Chikmagalur has a perpetual fragrance of coffee lingering in the air with it plenty of coffee plantations. Famous fo...

8. Jog Falls

8 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

The second-highest plunge waterfall in India, Jog Falls is a major tourist attraction in Karnataka and is the highest waterfall in the state. Second, to the Nohkalikai Falls of Meghalaya, Jog falls drops about a huge 253 m (850 ft. ) in a single fall. However, due to the construc...

Best Time: July to December

9. Murudeshwar

9 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Murudeshwar is home to the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva (123 ft) in the world. With the shimmering Arabian Sea on three sides and the magnificent Western Ghats imposing their presence on this town, it is a favourite picnic spot for the folks from Kerala and Karnataka. The beaches and the adve...

Best Time: October to May

10. Bangalore

10 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 104 Tourist attractions

Having evolved gradually from being the Garden city to the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is India's third-largest city. Bangalore is loved for its pleasant weather, beautiful parks and the many lakes here. Bangalore is renowned for its eateries, street food corners, quirky cafes, coffee ro...

Best tourist destinations & places in Karnataka

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11. Dandeli

11 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 25 Tourist attractions

Located on the Western Ghats of Uttara Karnataka, Dandeli is bestowed with the lush green forests and lies on the banks of the Kali river. Known for its many fantastic adventure opportunities, Dandeli is a hub for river rafting on river kali . Adventure seekers have many options ...

12. Bandipur National Park

12 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 2 Tourist attractions

Situated in  Karnataka, Bandipur National Park was once the hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Mysore. It was later established as a reserve in 1974 under Project Tiger and these deciduous forests rich in wildlife have become a popular tourist attraction since then. It is 80 km from Mysore enro...

13. Nagarhole National Park

13 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 7 Tourist attractions

Located in the Mysore district of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park boasts of rich wildlife including both flora and fauna. Located near Bandipur National Park, it is packed with the bounty of raw nature in its best form. Bestowed with best of wildlife, forest cover and varied topogr...

14 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 5 Tourist attractions

Located around 245 km from Bangalore, Kabini is primarily known for its handful of luxury resorts around the Kabini River and Nagarhole National Park in the vicinity.  Please note that there are not many budget-friendly accommodations near Kabini River. It is a popular weekend getaway...

15. Kemmanagundi

15 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

A hill station of widespread views and scents of beautiful gardens, Kemmanagundi or KR hills offer a perfect summer retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The area also has trekking, nature walks and picnics. The Royal Horticulture Society of Karnataka is located here an...

Best Time: September to May

16. Thirthahalli

16 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka

Thirthahalli is a quaint little town situated on the banks of river Tunga and is also a taluk headquarters in Shimoga District. Famous for the holy river Tunga and its significance to Indian mythology, Thirthahalli is a popular attraction near Shimoga. Set along the dense forests of the Western Ghat...

17. Kudremukh

17 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 10 Tourist attractions

Popular and named after a mountainside that resembles a horse's face, Kudremukh is famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. A popular hill-station among the Bangalore crowd, Kudremukh is actually a hill range in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Kudremukh Peak is a paradise...

18. Shravanabelagola

18 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Shravanbelagola is an important Jain pilgrimage centre with a 57 m tall monolithic sculpture of Lord Gomateswara called Bahubali statue as its prime attraction. Located 144 km from Bengaluru in Hassan District of Karnataka, the collection of Jain Temples in Shravanbelagola attracts a number of pilgr...

19. Pattadakal

19 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

A treasure trove of Hindu and Jain temples, Pattadakal is part of the Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal complex that got the UNESCO World Heritage title and it is the best representation of Chalukyan Architecture. Resting on the banks of River Malaprabha, it boasts of a rich legacy that dates back to th...

20. Shimoga (Shivamogga)

20 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 37 Tourist attractions

With nature in its full bloom, the town of Shimoga has been home to several great dynasties and kingdoms. Packed with several marvels of nature in the form of picturesque landscape, gorgeous waterfalls, mystical temples and lush green surroundings, its raw beauty will leave you absolutely enchanted....

Best Tourist Attractions in Karnataka

Abbey Falls

Mysore Palace

Bangalore Palace

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

21. Devbagh

21 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 11 Tourist attractions

Pristine blue water, picture perfect backdrop of beautiful mountains and lush green belt of casuarinas trees blend together perfectly to give you Devbagh. It is an amazing exotic island lying along the coastline of Arabian sea about 2 kms from the southern part of Goa. With splendid weather througho...

22. Nandi Hills

22 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 12 Tourist attractions

Located around 60 kilometres away from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is one such tourist spot that has gradually been discovered by visitors over the years and has now become a well-known weekend getaway.

Best Time: October to June

23 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 22 Tourist attractions

Karwar is a port city with scenic beaches surrounded by casuarinas trees along the Arabian sea coastline. Located 15kms away from Goa, on the west coast of Indian Peninsula, It is both a natural harbour as well as a town with a history that goes back to the 15th century.

Best Time: November to April

24. Halebidu

24 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

Halebid (or Halebidu) is a city located in the Hassan district of Karnataka state. Formerly known as Dwarasamudra, Halebid is a city with adorned with a beautiful collection of temples, shrines and sculptures. It is also known as the Gem of Indian architecture owing to its sterling Hoysala architect...

25. Bijapur

25 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 14 Tourist attractions

Famous for the Gol Gumbaj and Ibrahim Rauza which is considered to be the Taj Mahal of the Deccan, Bijapur is a tourist destination in Karnataka that takes its visitors back in time through its glorious ancient structures. Bijapur is an important commercial district in the state of Karnata...

26. Shivagange

26 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 2 Tourist attractions

Shivagange, a hillock situated 56 km from Bangalore, is a combination of temples and scenic beauty that makes it both a pilgrimage as well as an adventure spot. From a distance, the hillock looks like a 'Shiva Linga', with a spring flowing nearby that's locally called Ganga, thereby naming it Shivag...

27. Maravanthe

27 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 10 Tourist attractions

Maravanthe is a getaway which can be best described as nature's basket full of mesmerizing picturesque views. A beautiful beach town with white sand spread miles and miles along the coast fetches the beach a nickname of a Virgin Beach.

28. Mangalore

28 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 28 Tourist attractions

Located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the port city of Mangalore or Mangaluru is known for its swaying coconut palms, beautiful beaches and temple architecture. It is also an important industrial, commercial, educational and healthcare hub of the state of Karnataka.

29. Srirangapatna

29 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 16 Tourist attractions

Srirangapatna is a small island town in the Cauvery river in Karnataka. Located 18 kms from Mysore, the town is an architectural masterpiece of Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles evident in its monuments. One of the most important Vaishnavite centres of pilgrimage- the Ranganathaswamy tem...

Best Time: July to March

30. Savandurga

30 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 3 Tourist attractions

Situated 60 kms to the west of Bangalore, Savandurga, considered to be one of the largest single rock formations in the whole of Asia. It comprises of two hills, Billigudda (white hill) and Karigudda (black hill) and has a temple situated at the foothill and a pond nearby. Most trekkers choose Billi...

Best Time: November to May

31. Chikkaballapur

31 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

Chikballapura town is located about 57km from Bangalore, Karnataka and is an important port link in North Bangalore area and also a major educational hub. Nandi Hills, Bhoga Nandeehwara, Vivekananda Waterfalls and Yoga Nandesshwara temples are some of the famous places here providing oppor...

32. Honnemaradu

32 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 10 Tourist attractions

Honnemaradu is a small cosy village, by the Honnemaradu Reservoir. The site is set in the middle of a valley and a weekend getaway to this place is nothing less than an adventure camp. The little village has very few people, and the only attraction is the water sports done at the Honnemaradu la...

Best Time: October to December, March to Apr

33. Anthargange

33 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 2 Tourist attractions

Anthargange is situated in the Kolar district of Karnataka in the Shathashrunga range, about 70 km from Bangalore. The mountains at an altitude of 1712 meters from sea level with rocky boulders, small caves and dense plantations are one of the best getaways for trekking, rock climbing and cave explo...

34. Bheemeshwari

34 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Bheemeshwari, a small town in Karnataka's Mandya district, is popular as a paradise for fishing enthusiasts as it is home to the Mahseer fishes - one of the finest game fish in the world. This town is tranquil and is the perfect getaway for a short trip from Bangalore. Due to its prox...

35 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 6 Tourist attractions

Dubare is an untamed beauty, popular for its elephant training camp where visitors can watch, learn about and get involved in a number of activities with the elephants creating a unique, enjoyable and memorable experience. It has a hilly terrain with backwaters which are also the host of a number of...

36. Dharmasthala

36 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Popularly known as the Land of Charity, Dharmasthala is a beautiful temple town with a blend of heritage, culture and religion. Situated on the banks of Nethravathi river in Karnataka, it's popularly known as a pilgrim site for the Shaiva, Vaishnava and Jaina communities.

37. Kundapura

37 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 12 Tourist attractions

Culturally rich, a treasure trove of mesmerizing nature and environ of spirituality define this temple town best. It is known for its unique dialect in Kannada and amazing cuisine. Also a destination for nature buffs along with activities like hiking, trekking, rock climbing and boating, that can ma...

38. BR Hills

38 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 5 Tourist attractions

Around 175 kilometres away from Bangalore, BR Hills, also known as Billigiriranga Hills, is a hill range and one of the most popular road trips from Bangalore. BR hills is an abode to Billigiri Rangaaswamy Temple and BRT Wildlife sanctuary. This range of hills is a deific conjuncture for the Eastern...

Best Time: April to October

39. Sringeri

39 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

Commonly known as Sri Kshetra Shringeri, Sringeri is a famed hill town nestled in the Chikkamagaluru District of Karnataka. It is a pilgrimage centre, mainly known for the Sharada Peetham which was built by the great Adi Shankara in the 9th century. According to experts, Adi Shankaracharya stay...

40. Shivanasamudra Falls

40 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 3 Tourist attractions

Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is primarily a hydropower project location but has gotten massive attention for its stunning waterfalls: Gaganachukki and Barachukki. Travellers enjoy the view of waterfalls from the benches, and there are steps that take visitors to many le...

Best Time: August to February

41 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 23 Tourist attractions

Home to over 125 beautiful Chalukyan temples and monuments, Aihole is a historical site in Bagalkot, Karnataka. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and is surrounded by marvellous sandstone hills and villages on the banks of the Malaprabha River. It was fo...

42 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 11 Tourist attractions

A city rich in culture and heritage, Bidar is a historical city in Karnataka. Once considered to be the most flourishing cities in South India, Bidar is packed with great architectural marvels and ancient structures that add on to its charm. Being once the centre of power of many great kin...

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12 Top Tourist Places in Karnataka

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Karnataka , in south India, has a lot to offer. Unfortunately though, travel to Karnataka is often overlooked in favor of surrounding Goa , Kerala , and Tamil Nadu . Those who do visit the top tourist places in Karnataka will be rewarded with a memorable mix of nature, history, beach, and spirituality.

GoMowgli provides a novel and convenient way of seeing Karnataka with their hop-on-hop-off bus service.

Bangalore , the capital of Karnataka, is a contemporary, fast-growing, and prosperous place that's home to India's IT industry. It's full of young professionals and has a vibrant, cosmopolitan air about it. Although it's not really a must-visit city in India, many people love Bangalore because it's full of greenery, interesting buildings, and ​ temples . However, unfortunately, these days, traffic jams have become a major issue.

TripSavvy / Faye Strassle

One of India's top historical destinations , the laid-back village of Hampi was once the last capital of Vijayanagar, one of the greatest Hindu empires in India’s history. It has some extremely captivating ruins, intriguingly intermingled with large boulders that rear up all over the landscape. The ruins, which date back to the 14th century, stretch for just over 25 kilometers (10 miles) and comprise more than 500 monuments. An incredible energy can be felt at this ancient place.

Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal

When visiting Hampi, it's worth taking a side trip to the heritage sites of Badami (formerly Vatapi), Aihole, and Pattadakal. The Chalukya empire ruled there between the 4th to 8th centuries, and they're rich in monuments, temples, and ruins from that era. The renowned Chalukya style of architecture originated in Aihole and the village is filled with around 125 stone temples, which unfortunately don't get the attention they deserve. Badami is one of the top places to see caves in India, with four sets of magnificent ancient rock-cut cave temples. Pattadakal is smaller, with only one temple complex -- it's impressive though!  Do be aware that hotels are scarce, with only a few decent ones to be found in Badami.

Chitradurga Fort

The well-maintained ruins of sprawling Chitradurga Fort are a hidden, lesser-known gem in the heart of the Deccan Plateau northwest of Bangalore, on the way to Hampi. Much of the fort was built by the Palegar Nayakas between the 15th and 18th centuries. It was later expanded by Hyder Ali, who defeated the Nayakas. The fort is the largest in Karnataka, and its rocky landscape on a granite hill is peppered with boulders and valleys. Notable features include seven circular walls, 19 gateways, 35 secret entrances, four invisible passages, 2,000 watchtowers, 18 temples in the upper fort, and a huge temple in the lower fort.

Gokarna is a small and remote holy town in northern Karnataka, with some of India's best beaches . It draws both pious pilgrims and hedonistic holiday-makers with equal enthusiasm. Go there to get a feel for what Goa was like in its heyday, although time is limited as developers are already seeing the potential of this area. It's possible to learn how to surf in Gokarna . Catch a wave!

Mysore has an impressive royal heritage, with the city's main tourist attraction being the imposing Mysore Palace . There are many other interesting buildings, palaces, and temples to see. Its zoo is one of the best in India. Mysore is also an excellent place to shop for sandalwood and study Ashtanga yoga . The 10 day Mysore Dasara Festival is an added attraction.

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

The Kodagu region, often referred to as Coorg (the English version of its name), is an extremely picturesque and alluring mountainous area in southern Karnataka, not far from Bangalore and Mysore. The area is renowned for its plentiful coffee estates and stunning scenic beauty. The highlight of a visit to Coorg is undoubtedly a stay amid the coffee plantations. The magnificent Golden Temple, one of the top Buddhist monasteries in India , is not to be missed as well.

Nagarhole National Park

Karnataka's Nagarhole National Park is one of the top national parks in India and is an excellent palace to see elephants close up in their natural habitat. It's not unusual to see herds of elephants on the river bank. The park is a place of unspoiled wilderness, with serene forest, bubbling streams, and a tranquil lake. Nagarhole can be explored by jeep safari. Many people go trekking in the area too.

Chikmagalur

A destination that's very popular with domestic tourists, Chikmagalur is a part of the Western Ghat mountains in southwest Karnataka's coffee district. Trekkers flock there to scale Mullayanagiri peak, one of the highest in the state. Thrillophilia offers a two-day trekking trip departing from Bangalore. The region's diverse array of attractions also includes waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, temples, and homestays. If you really want to pamper yourself, stay at The Serai.

Around 25 kilometers southeast of Chikmagalur on the banks of Yagachi River, historic Belur has many glorious temples belonging to the Hoysala Empire, which had its capital there. These temples are the best examples of Hoysala architecture, with the highlight being their intricate carvings. The main temple, constructed to commemorate the victory of the Hoysalas over the Cholas, took 103 years to build. Belur was attacked by the Mughals in the 14th century, beginning the downfall of Hoysala rule and relocation of their capital to Halebidu.

Shravanabelagola

Karnataka is home to five towering statues of Bahubali, the son of the founder of Jainism. The tallest one is located at Shravanabelagola, in the Hassan district between Bangalore and Mangalore. It stands 58 feet tall and was carved out of a single block of granite rock, making it the biggest monolithic stone statue in the world. Its location on top of a hill requires an energetic barefoot climb up more than 600 steps. The ceremonies and rituals conducted at the base of the statue are particularly interesting.

Murudeshwar

The second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world (the tallest one is in Nepal) is located at Murudeshwar on the southern Karnataka coast, around 150 kilometers north of Mangalore. The complex also has a temple with an ornate 20 storied gopura (tower) and internal lift that goes all the way to the top. The views are breathtaking.

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• 47 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka That Will Totally Knock You Out

Tourist places in Karnataka spell allure and sedation. Some of these best places to visit in Karnataka are well-renowned, while the others are left unappreciated. The state’s geographical location ensures diverse tourist places that are captivating enough to knock you out.

The historical and quintessential state of Karnataka occupies a focal place in the tourism map of India. Locked between Kannad Coast, Western Ghats, and Deccan Plateau, the state boasts of forests, hills, temples, caves beaches, riversides, lakes, coffee estates, waterfalls, ruins, and so much more interesting tourist spots, here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Karnataka that you can unravel for an amazing getaway with your loved ones.

47 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka

Spell bounded beaches, rich biodiversity, ancient cities, rugged mountains, rich biodiversity and much more, attractions in Karnataka are an amalgamation of modernity and ancient charm. Here we give you a handpicked list of some of the best places to visit in Karnataka. Check them out!

• Kabini Jog Falls
• Bandipur National Park
• Badami, Aihole, And Pattadakal
• Chitradurga Fort
• Nandi Hills
• Chikmagalur
• Murudeshwar Nagarhole National Park
• Srirangapatna
• Shravanabelagola
• Kemmanagundi
• Kushalnagar
• Makalidurga
• Chikkaballapur

1. Bangalore

Image Credit: Abhishek Kumar for Wikimedia Commons

Bangalore, a colorful city of culture and people, is one of the popular tourist destinations to visit in Karnataka. The IT hub of the country offers a cosmopolitan ambience and people from different parts come and settle here for work. Bangalore has pleasant and comfortable weather around the year so it is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in summer. Full of wildlife, nature, ruins, museums, architectural wonders, and gardens, Bangalore is a treat for tourists and travelers. And on top of that staying in one of the many luxurious villas in Bangalore makes your vacation all the more worthwhile.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Bangalore also offers many fascinating tourist destinations within the city where you can chill out for a weekend or a mid-week holiday. Key attractions are Butterfly Park of Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh Glass Place, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Wonder La Amusement Park, ISKCON temple, and Aerospace Museum.

Best Time To Visit: October to February

Nearest Railway Station: The capital city has its junction named Bangalore City Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Bangalore has its own international airport called Bengaluru International Airport.

Must Read: Historical Places in Karnataka  

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Image Credit: KshitizBathwal for Wikimedia Commons

A quaint and not-so-popular hill station, Coorg is aptly called the ‘Scotland of India’. Its surreal beauty makes it one of the most fascinating tourist places in Karnataka. Endowed with coffee estates full of aroma, luxuriant greenery dotting the mountains, and stunning waterfalls plunging down the misty mountains, Coorg charms every one of its visitors.

Thrilling treks along the winding trails of the coffee & spice plantations, visiting elephant camp, coracle rides in the river, wildlife sanctuaries, monasteries, and the local Madikeri market – all together contribute to making the holiday fascinating and exhilarating.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, and Bylakuppe are the most loved ones. Monastery, the second biggest Tibetan settlement in India, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Nagarhole National Park come in close seconds.

Best Time To Visit: March to June

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station is 106 km from Coorg. Mangalore Station and Hassan Station are also nearby.

Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport is 260 km from Coorg. You can also access the glorious hill station from Mangalore Airport which is 135 km away.

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Kabini is one of the most picturesque and the best tourist places in Karnataka, located along the bank of a river with the same name. River Kabini is a tributary of Cauvery. The place is located on the periphery of Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Bandipur Forest, and Nagarhole National Park; hence, offers ample scope for wildlife experience, amongst the best places in Karnataka to explore the wilderness.

Also, you can be lucky enough to spot tigers, leopards, wild elephants, various species of deer, and plenty of residential and nomadic birds, while boating in the river or on a wildlife safari in the nearby jungles.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Wildlife safari at Nagarhole National Park, boating at Kabini River, exploring Kabini dam, and the hilly area of Kutta covered with coffee and spice plantations.

Best Time To Visit: November to June

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station is just about 10 km from the place.

Nearest Airport: 250 km from Kabini, Bangalore Airport is the closest airport.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Karnataka

4. Jog Falls

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Amongst the most famous places in Karnataka, Jog Falls locally known as Gerusoppa Falls, Gersoppa Falls, and Jogada Gundi are the second-highest waterfalls in the country. Formed by the Sharavathi River cascading from an altitude of 253 m (830 ft), the waterfalls are divided into four segments namely Raja, Rocket, Rani, and Roarer. They offer one of the most charming and breathtakingly beautiful places to see in Karnataka.

The State Tourism Department has constructed steps – around 1,500 in number – from the viewpoint to the hill bottom. It is here at the bottom that the alluring beauty of the waterfalls can be seen closely. For their beauty and enchanting sound of gushing water, Jog Falls is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in summer.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Linganamakki Dam across the Sharavathi River, Tunga Anicut Dam, and Thavare Koppa

Best Time To Visit: Monsoon season

Nearest Railway Station: To reach Jog Falls via train, you need to get down at Sagar Station which is 28 km away.

Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport is the closest airport at a distance of 133 km.

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Shimoga, the cultural capital of Karnataka, is a colorful place enriched with fertile land, beautiful waterfalls, and lush green forests making it one of the best tourist places in Karnataka. Its verdant greenery and tranquil ambiance make it one of the best places to visit in Karnataka. River Tungabhadra, River Sharavathi, River Varada, and River Kumadvathi have carved out picturesque river valleys here. The place is historically famous as Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and Vijayanagar Kings reigned this region.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Shivappa Nayaka Summer Palace, Kote Seeta-Rama Temple, Sacred Heart Cathedral, and Tyavarekoppa Lion Safari are the major attractions. Sakrebyle Elephant Camp is also very famous here where you can experience bathing and attend professional training sessions of elephants.

Best Time To Visit: October to March

Nearest Railway Station: The city has its own railway station named Shimoga Nagar Railway Station

Nearest Airport: Shimoga Domestic Airport is 1o minute’s drive from the city and is fairly connected with Mumbai and Delhi. The nearest international airport is Mangalore International Airport which is 195 km from the city.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Summer In Karnataka

6. Mangalore

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Mangalore is one of the serene tourist spots in Karnataka, impeccable for a short weekend trip to break the monotony of urban chores. The town is located at the estuarine junction formed by River Netravati and River Gurupura on the Arabian Sea Coast.

Once in Mangalore, strolling and sunbathing at the beaches, trying spicy, scrumptious seafood, viewing sunrises & sunsets, and visiting the shipyard just cannot be missed. This serene town is one of our favorite Karnataka tourist places of all time. Mangalore is certainly one of the most ideal places to visit in Karnataka for 2 days break. And, there are a plethora of fascinating places near Mangalore that you can visit.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Tannirbhavi Beach, Panambur Beach, Someshwara Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangaladevi Temple, Kadri Manjunath Temple, and Sammilan Shetty’s Butterfly Park are the major attractions. Don’t miss the unlittered and serene beaches to add complete effect to your trip.

Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore Railway Station is within the city.

Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport is a mere 15 minutes from the main city.

It would be completely unfair not to mention one of the best tourist places in Karnataka, the picturesque town of Karwar. Karwar is an offbeat beach destination located near the Karnataka-Goa border. The town is one of the upcoming, not-so-popular yet, places to visit in coastal Karnataka. It is ideal for those who desire to have a secluded holiday away from any bustling cat-race of the city. Sun-kissed beaches, charming temples, and majestic forts are the major tourist pullers.

The town is locally popular as ‘Kone’ by the southern villagers, which refers to the corner of the region around the River Kali. Karwar has an exhilarating splendor to it. The surrounding green hills, which are a part of the Western Ghats, enhance the beauty quotient of the place.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Stroll at Majali Beach, take a boat ride up to Kurumgad Island, and explore the historical remnants of Sadashivgad Fort. Do not miss the famous Durga Devi and Nagnath Temple.

Nearest Railway Station: Karwar has its own railway station by the name of Karwar Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport Goa is around 2-hour drive from Karwar.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit in Karnataka In March

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Travelers looking for complete solace and solemn pleasure should surely visit Gokarna at least once. This low-key, laid-back, and less-commercialized beach destination has won over millions of travelers and backpackers and is one of the most famous places in Karnataka.

Gokarna is also an important Hindu pilgrim hub with many age-old temples in its confines. Chilling out on the pristine beaches, enjoying the exciting water sports, and riding on the thrilling catamaran ride has made it a fascinating tourist retreat.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Maha Ganapati Temple, and Om Beach are the major crowd-pullers. Relax and enjoy thrilling water sports like banana boat rides, snorkeling, and parasailing in the shimmering blue water of Gokarna.

Nearest Railway Station: Gokarna Railway Station is nearest to the town and is well-connected with Marmagao Rail Link.

Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport in Goa is 140 km away from the town.

9. Bandipur National Park

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When holidaying means greenery and winding trails, when birds chirping and calls of the wild animals are melodies to the ears, when the beauty and charm of Bandipur National Park leave you awestruck, it means you have had a successful day in your vacation.

The famous tiger reserve and bird sanctuary is an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and bird watchers. The number of ardent nature lovers flocking to Bandipur National Park has made it one of the ideal places to visit in Karnataka for a day picnic. Once a private hunting ground for Maharajas of Mysore, the national park is a habitat to rich varieties of flora and fauna like wild elephants, spotted deer, gaurs, and antelopes.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, Anjaneyar Temple, and Biligirirangan Hills are the major tourist attractions along with wildlife safari at Bandipur National Park are the hits here.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore City Railway Station is the closest rail link, located 80 km from the National Park.

Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport is 220 km from the forest region.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Karnataka In Winter

10. Dandeli

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Dandeli is an incredible getaway amidst nature and adventure which has gained its spot on the list of serene tourist places in Karnataka for 2 days. This scenic hilly terrain surrounded by deciduous forests and wildlife habitat is an ideal vacation destination in Karnataka.

Along with thick and lush green forests, Dandeli is also famous for adventure sports, night camps, nature walks, boating, and angling in the Kali River. In a way, a wholesome package for adventure enthusiasts, it is a place you must visit if you are an adrenaline junkie.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Explore Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Shiroli Park, and Kavala caves for an interesting experience. Entice your adventure spree and try out kayaking and whitewater rafting in River Kali.

Best Time To Visit: October to May

Nearest Railway Station: Alnavar Junction is the closest railway link, just 23 km away from Dandeli.

Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport is at a distance of 56 km.

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Hampi – a small Kannad village located at the bank of the Tungabhadra River is now recognized as World Heritage Site by UNESCO making it one of the best places to visit in North Karnataka. The village showcases ruins and historical remnants of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. The stony landscape and barren beauty of the town are one of the perfect places to visit in Karnataka.

History buffs and architecture scholars flock in thousands of numbers here annually. Other curious travelers often feel spellbound and awestruck by the craftsmanship of the skilled artisans of the era. Hampi has almost 500 architectural structures in its ruins, all of which are worth visiting.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Monkey Temple, Archeological Museum, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Royal Enclosure, Virupaksha Temple, Queen’s Bath, and Riverside Ruins are the crowd-pullers.

Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction is the nearest railway station to Hampi, at about 13 km from the place.

Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is at Hubli Airport about 74 km from Hampi. Bellary Airport and Belgaum Airport are also nearby.

Suggested Read: Gokarna To Goa Road Trip

12. Bijapur

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As a serene and famous historical town, Bijapur boasts of Deccan’s Islamic Era and its glories inherited making it one of the most beautiful places in Karnataka. Bijapur renamed Vijapura in 2024, is a cultural hub and has plenty of mosques, mausoleums, palaces, and forts as offerings to travellers.

Bijapur is one of the popular tourist spots in Karnataka and has a heart for the Lingayat brand of Shaivism. The Lingayat Siddeshwara Festival is celebrated with full splendor for eight days in January and February here.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, Malik-e-Maidan displaying Bara Kaman, Bijapur Fort, Jami Masjid, Gagan Mahal, and Upli Buruj are a must-visit.

Nearest Railway Station: Bijapur has its own railway link by the name of Bijapur Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Sambre Airport in Belgaum is the closest one and is located about 164 km from the city.

13. Badami, Aihole And Pattadakal

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Dusty roads, barren topography, red stone architecture, and rocky cliffs iconize the surroundings of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal – the best places to visit in north Karnataka. These Heritage Sites as declared by UNESCO, are the must-visit Karnataka attractions.

You can discover Chalukyan wrecks and ruins while strolling along the century-old temples, caves, and forts in Badami. Aihole has a historical connotation and is known as the cradle of Hindu rock architecture. Moreover, Pattadakal houses uniquely designed temples. It’s a set of places which you must explore to understand the marvel of the place.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Badami is famous for Badami Fort, Buddha rock-cut Caves, and Bhootnath Temple. Aihole is known for the Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple, Archeological Temple, and Huchimalli Temple. Virupaksha & Papanatha Temple and Galaganatha Shrine are major attractions in Pattadakal.

Best Time To Visit: July to March

Nearest Railway Station: All three places are close by and can be reached from Hubli Railway Station, just 100 km away.

Nearest Airport: Belgaum Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 190 km.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Mysore

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Udupi is ethereal, verdant, and blissful. Locked between the misty Western Ghats and the pristine Arabian Sea, Udupi is also known as Odipu in the local language. It is popular for its temples, architecture, wood artifacts, beaches, stone carving, Yakshagana – the theatre art genre, and a special type of local cuisine, which includes Saaru, Koddelu, Huli, Tambuli, Kosambari, Bajji, and such.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Sri Krishna Temple, Malpe Beach, St. Mary’s Islands, Ambalpady, and Shiriyara are the major attractions

Best Time To Visit: December to February

Nearest Railway Station: Udupi has its own railway station with the name of Udupi Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Bajpe Airport of Mangalore is the nearest airport to Udupi at just 48 km.

15. Chitradurga Fort

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Truly one of the best places to enjoy Karnataka sightseeing, the monument located in Chitradurga town has immense archaeological and historical significance. The fort has witnessed history from the period of the Chalukyas Empire and the renowned legend of Onake Obavva. The fort even has a mention in the epic of Mahabharata.

Chitradurga Fort or Chitaldoorg Fort, as it is locally known, is a fortified structure that connects several hills and a peak overlooking the nearly flat valley.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Besides the eminent fort, the Ankali Mutt, Vani Vilas Sagar Dam, Hidimbeshwar Temple, Kugo Bande, and Shouting Rock are worth visiting.

Nearest Railway Station: Chitradurga Railway Station is the nearest.

Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport, which is 197 km away from the fort area is the nearest.

Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Mysore

16. Nandi Hills

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The list of places to visit in and around Karnataka is not complete if we do not include this along with the popular health resort of the same name. Nandi Hills is located east of Bangalore and offers delightful beauty to travelers. The serene lake, majestic forts, ancient temples, and jaw-dropping backdrops make it a picture-perfect weekend retreat and one of the ultimate places to visit in Karnataka in summer.

Viewing the sunrise from the hilltop amidst clouds, fog, and misty weather is probably a lavish treat to the soul. The place also has historical significance. Tipu Sultan and his royalty retired here at Nandi Hills when they sought to escape the commotion of battles and the heat of the plain land.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Nandi Temple, the century-old Lord Shiva Temple, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple are the primary attractions.

Best Time To Visit: September to February

Nearest Railway Station: Chikkaballapur Railway Station is 19 km from Nandi Hills and is the closest one.

Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport is an hour’s drive from here.

17. Chikmagalur

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Often known as the coffee land of Karnataka, this place is surrounded by scenic beauty along with the strong aroma of coffee. This hill station is situated at the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range and is famous for its serene nature, lush green forests, and the Yagachi River.

Chikmagalur is an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway with friends in Karnataka, being the largest producer of coffee, it is the best place to be for coffee lovers. You can explore the tranquil coffee plantations and go on a nature walk and trekking trails in the hills.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Mahatma Gandhi Park, Coffee Museum, Mullayana Giri, Kudurekha Jamly.

Best Time To Visit: September to May

Nearest Railway Station : Chikkamagaluru railway station

Nearest Airport : Mangalore Airport

Suggested Read: Trekking Near Tumkur

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Mysore is one of the largest princely states that has numerous tourist spots for you to get in touch with the royal history of this place. Also known as the city of palaces in southern India, it is one of the most idyllic places to visit in south Karnataka with a dash of royal touch. The city not only houses world-renowned palaces and landmarks but there are also gleaming beaches near Mysore that would surely leave you amazed.

Mysore is also famous for its silk sarees, intricate architecture, sandalwood, royal heritage and yoga. However, the biggest attraction of the city is the Mysore Palace which reflects the beauty and charm of the royal city. Marvel at the elaborate architecture, the intricate carvings, and the stained glass windows. This city won’t leave you disappointed.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo, Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, Brindavan Gardens

Nearest Railway Station : Chamarajapuram railway station

Nearest airport : Bangalore International Airport

19. Murudeshwar

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This holy town features the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world which is beautifully located with Arabian Sea on all three sides and the majestic Western Ghats showing their presence in the town. A favorite haunt for day trips, the serene beaches and adventure activities are what intrigue travelers the most about visiting this town.

Apart from being a favorite picnic spot, it’s also famous for mesmerizing temples and forts, you can plan a visit to nearby destinations like Netrani island which offers many water sports activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Statue of Lord Shiva, Murudeshwar temple

Nearest Railway Station : Murdeshwar railway station

Nearest airport : Mangalore Airport

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Coorg In June

20. Nagarhole National Park

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Explore the wildlife of Karnataka at the storehouse of rich flora and fauna, Nagarhole National Park is an ideal place to spot the majestic creatures of the wild. Get to witness the wild animals in their natural habitats like Asiatic elephants, different species of birds, and Indian bison, or simply soak in the raw nature surrounding you.

Apart from the wildlife, there are plenty of cultural and heritage spots in the park as well. You can visit the temples to seek tranquility and soak in the calm and positivity. Witness breathtaking waterfalls on the way as you seek respite away from the hustle and bustle.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Rameshwara temple, Iruppu Falls

Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year

Nearest Railway Station : Krishnarajanagar

Nearest airport : Mandakalli Airport, Mysore

Image Credit: Shital 90 for Wikipedia

Go on an elephantastic adventure at this place in Karnataka that allows you to bathe and play with the magnificent animals of the jungle kingdom. Get up and close with these gigantic elephants, interact with them, and enjoy their company in the absolute wilderness.

The elephant training camp here is famous for indulging in several activities, learning, and creating a unique experience with the elephants. This is indeed one of the most unique places to visit in Karnataka where kids as well as adults can enjoy.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Dubare Elephant Camp, Harangi Dam, Nisargadhama

Best Time To Visit: September to March

Suggested Read: Cottages In Coorg

22. Kotagiri

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A quaint hill station surrounded by the majestic Nilgiri mountains, it exudes peace and tranquillity in every corner. Kotagiri observes pleasant climatic conditions all year round and boasts several coffee plantations, lush greenery, and tea plantations to tour around.

Kotagiri is also the third-largest hill station in Karnataka and is believed to have the world’s second-best climate. It serves as a perfect alternative to Ooty if you prefer a smaller crowd as it is much more peaceful than Ooty.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Catherine Water Falls, Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line, Longwood Shola Reserve Forest, Lamb’s Rock

Best Time To Visit: December to May

Nearest Railway Station : Mettupalayam

Nearest airport : Coimbatore Airport

23. Srirangapatna

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This ancient river island town in the shape of an egg is surrounded by river Kaveri on all sides and is also a popular picnic spot located at a distance of 22 km from Mysore in the Mandya district of Karnataka. The town exudes an old-world charm, vintage vibes, and a historical relevance attached to it that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Karnataka.

This town was once the capital of Mysore under Tipu Sultan and is home to several historically significant heritage sites. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of stunning waterfalls and lush greenery, Srirangapatna is a must-visit for travelers visiting Karnataka.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Dariya Daulat Palace, Balmuri Falls, Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon

Nearest Railway Station : Shrirangapattana railway station

Nearest airport : Mysore Airport

Suggested Read: Monsoon In Karnataka

24. Sringeri

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A hill town located in the Chikkamagaluru district, and is the first site of matha that was established by Adi Shankara in the 8th century. It holds a historically significant value and is the abode of the Sharadamba of Sringeri.

This ancient hill town is one of the most famous places to see in Karnataka, a hillock that is considered to be the home of the sage Vibhandaka and his son Rishyashringa.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Shringeri Sharadamba, Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya, Vidyashankara Temple, Sri Torana Ganpati Temple

Nearest Railway Station : Udupi

Nearest airport : Mangalore airport

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Once the ancient capital of the Hoysala empire, this ancient town is a major tourist destination in Karnataka which is home to the famous Chennakesava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Home to multiple temples, many devotees travel to this town to worship the deities.

Marvel at the ancient architecture of the temples built in the Dravidian style and the Hoysala style of architecture that have intricate carvings which took almost 103 years to finish the temple.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Chennakeshava Temple, Hoysala Emblem, Yagachi Dam

Best Time To Visit: October to April

Nearest railway station : Chikmagalur railway station

Nearest airport : Bajpe Airport

Suggested Read: Chamundeshwari Temple

26. Shravanabelagola

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Sravanbelagola is known as a crucial pilgrimage for Jains and the height of this temple is 57 meters it is a monolithic sculpture of Lord Gomateswara, commonly known as Bahubali statue. Situated almost 144 km away from Bengaluru in the Hassan District, this temple attracts a large number of visitors every year.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Located between two hills Vindyagiri and Chandigiri, this temple is also known as Belagola. Now, if we consider the meaning of Belagola, “bela” refers to the color white, and “kola” refers to a pond in the Kannada language.  Visitors who find it difficult to climb both of these hills will get Palanquin or the Dolis which are available for INR 800.

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station in Shravanabelagola is at Hassan as most of the trains halt there.

Nearest Airport: Mysore has its nearest airport and that can be easily accessed by availing the cab service.

27. Devbagh

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If you consider all the tourist places in Karnataka , this tourist point is popularly known as the best one because of its scenic beauty, the picture-perfect background with a wide range of mountains, pristine blue water, and lush green belt of trees. With a blend of all these beauties, Devbagh has a lot of things to offer. It’s an exotic island, situated along the coastline of the Arabian Sea which is nearly 2 km from the southern part of Goa. 

Popular Tourist Destinations: Tourists will find splendid weather throughout the year in this beach town and because of this pleasant weather, vacationers will find fresh seafood and can experience sunsets and a few water sports. Furthermore, vacationers can also visit places in Devbagh such as Tagore Beach, the Lighthouse of Devbagh, Sadashivgad Fort, and the Shejjeswar temple.

Nearest Railway Station: Kudal Railway Station

Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Bidar

28. Halebidu

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Are you looking for some wonderful tourist places in Karnataka for 3 days ? Well, here are some details about Halebid, which will guide you to know about the city in a better way. The city of Halebid has a wonderful collection of temples, sculptures, and shrines. The city is also considered the Gem of Indian architecture because of its stunning Jain sites and temple complexes. 

Popular Tourist Destinations: People, while visiting there can visit the temples like Kedareshwara and Hoyaleswara for their beautiful sculptures and the panels which are designed in the prominent Hoysala style.

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Hasaan which is 27 km away from the main city and the station can be accessed by a cab or taxi service.

Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Mangalore Airport which is 168 km away.

29. Kudremukh

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Kudremukh has always been popular for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. Being a famous hill station in the crowd of Bangalore, this place is basically a hill range of Karnataka. With its dense forest, grasslands, and rolling meadows, Kudremukh is a hotspot for biodiversity.

Popular Tourist Destinations: At an altitude of 1894 meters, the Kudremukh Peak is heaven for trekkers and naturists. The visitors will love to experience the diversity of flora and fauna.

Best Time To Visit: November to February

Nearest Railway Station: The closest railway station is at Mangalore and there are many trains which are connected to the different cities. The nearest railway station at Mangalore with trains connecting to many cities.

Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is in Mangalore and the airport is accessible by taxis. Apart from taxis, the airport is also well connected by buses to different routes. 

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Hubli

30. Kemmanagundi

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 This is a hill station with wide-spread views and visitors will experience beautiful gardens. Vacationers can witness the spectacular beauty of the hills and that is a heaven for all nature and adventure lovers. 

Popular Tourist Destinations: The Royal Horticultural Society of Karnataka is an attraction for visitors. The place is best for trekking, picnics, and especially for nature walks. The tourist attractions include Hebbe Falls, Rock Garden, Z Point, and the Shiva temple.

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Tarikere and the station is 35 km away and considered as the best way to commute to Kemmanagundi.

Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Mangalore Airport, which is approximately 150 km away from Kemmanagundi.

31. Shivagange

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Shivagange is a popular destination, located 56 km away from Bangalore and also well known for its temples and scenic beauty which makes it both a place for pilgrimage and a spot for exploring your adventure. 

Popular Tourist Destinations: This place is also known as Dakshina Kashi as it is home to different temples like Olakala Teertha, Patala Gange, Nandi Statue, and Gangadhareshwara temple. The spectacular architecture of Nandi is a special attraction for the tourists. The hilly feature of this place attracts a lot of people who seek adventure sports and find it perfect for trekking as well as rock climbing.

Nearest Railway Station: Tumkur Railway Station.

Nearest Airport:  Mangalore International Airport

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Thoothukudi

32. Maravanthe

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If you are considering the places to visit in Karnataka in July then there are a lot of options to choose from, and Maravanthe is known as the getaway for vacationers which can be the popular one as a nature basket full of mesmerizing views. 

Popular Tourist Destinations: During sunset, the whole place is tinted in the shade of sepia mode which looks like just out of a painter’s piece of art. The sunset sets the whole place tinted in the shade of sepia just out of a painter’s canvas. The town is surrounded by Kodachadri Hills, the Arabian Sea, and the Sauparnika River on the other side of the town.

Nearest Railway Station: Kundapura Railway Station

33. Sakleshpur

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Sakleshpur is a beautiful hill station situated in the heights of the Western Ghats, in Karnataka. You can soak yourself in the aroma of the coffee, tea, and spice plantations. The economy of the small town flourishes on these three plantations. Sakleshpur offers you some spectacular views of natural beauty and rainforests which are pleasing to the eyes.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Some of the popular tourist destinations in Sakleshpur are the Temple of Halebid and Belur, Jenukal Gudda, Kukke Subramanya Temple, Green Route Trek, Raxidi Estate, Ayyappa Swami Temple, Eshwara Temple, Manjarabad Fort, Sakleshwara Temple, Agni Gudda Hill, Manjehalli Waterfalls, Bisle View Point, Pandavar Gudda and Hadlu Waterfall.

Nearest Railway Station: Sakleshpur is well connected by railways. The nearest railway station to Sakleshpur is Sakleshpur Railway Station which you can reach easily.

Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Sakleshpur is Mangalore Airport which is 98.8 km away along with some other airports like Kannur, Bengaluru, Goa, and Kochi.

Suggested Read: Hoysaleswara Temple

34. Madikeri

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The city of Madikeri is situated in Karnataka between Mangalore and Mysore. Madikeri is full of natural beauty, lush green forests, scenic landscapes, monasteries, temples, dazzling waterfalls, and much more.  If you want to take a break from your daily routine then Madikeri, one of the best tourist places to visit in Karnataka, will offer you a serene environment. Numerous ancient buildings, rich traditions, and culture have made Madikeri a fascinating attraction.

Popular Tourist Destinations : There are many tourist destinations worth visiting in Madikeri. Some of them are Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, Abbey Falls, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Cauvery Nisargadhama, Golden Temple, Iruppu Falls, Chingara Falls, Chelavara Falls, Mandalpatti, Talacauvery & Bhagamandala and many more.

Best Time To Visit: November to April

Nearest Railway Station: Madikeri is not directly connected by railways. However, the nearest railway station to Madikeri is Sakleshpur Railway Station which is at a distance of 58 km.

Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport or the Bajpe Airport is the nearest airport lying in close proximity to Madikeri at a distance of 145 km from the town.

35. Kanakpura

Image Credits: Abhiram24 For Wikimedia Commons

Get soaked in the clear waters of the waterfall in Kanakpura and experience the lush green forests in Karnataka. Kanakpura is at a distance of 55 km from Bengaluru and is regarded as the perfect weekend getaway or a short vacation for the people out there. For all wildlife enthusiasts, Kanakpura, a small district in Ramanagara, located on the banks of the Arkavathi River is a great opportunity to witness wildlife.

Popular Tourist Destinations:   Many tourist attractions are there in Kanakpura. Some of them are waterfalls, river streams, public parks, and some beautiful ancient temples.

Nearest Railway Station: There is no direct link between trains in Kanakpura. However, the nearest railway station is at Hosur which is at a distance of 48 km after which you can hire a cab.

Nearest Airport: A t a distance of 56 km from Kanakpura lies Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) which is the nearest airport.

Suggested Read: Mookambika Temple

36. Kushalnagar

Image Credit: Manojz Kumar for Wikimedia Commons

Kushalnagar is a small town with an area of 8 square km and situated on the banks of the Cauvery River.  You will be offered luxurious accommodations and plan your stay in one of the resorts, hotels, and lodgings. Kushalnagar is one of the hidden destinations not as popular as Coorg, but you can be sure of including it in the places to visit in Karnataka and witness wildlife, and different varieties of exotic birds, capture some amazing pictures.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Kushalnagar is famous for temples, monasteries, waterfalls, and various adventure activities best for nature and wildlife lovers.

Nearest Railway Station: Being a small town Kushalnagar has no railway station. Although, Coorg is nearby so you can arrive by car or hire a cab.

Nearest Airport: Being a small town Kushalnagar has a direct connection and the nearest airport is the Mysore airport. After landing you can take a cab.

Image Credits: Hoysala Photos For Wikimedia Commons

Planning a trip to Karnataka? Hasan is one of the interesting places that you must add to your itinerary while visiting Karnataka. Hassan is located at a distance of 187 km from Bangalore in the Malnad and Maidan districts. Tourists will get to see some of the monuments and ancient structures which are considered as some of the best illustrations of the Hoysala era style of architecture. There are amazing sculptures like the Bahubali Statue, untouched forests, forest reserves, monuments, and magnificent temples that will take you on a history ride.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Some of the famous tourist destinations of Hasan are the Bahubali statue which is 27 meters high, and Hoysala temples like Mosale, Gorur Dam, Kabbaligere Hills, Forest Reserve, and Bisle Ghat.

Nearest Railway Station: Arsikere Junction, Kadur Junction, and Birur Junction are some of the nearest railway stations in Hassan.

Nearest Airport: The city of Hassan does not have an airport. However, the nearest airport to Hassan is Mysore Airport which you can reach easily.

Suggested Read: Best Things To Do In Coorg

38. Ramanagara

Image Credit: Radhika Kochlar for Wikimedia Commons

Ramanagara is famous for its rolling green hills where you will get to see the peaks of Somagiri, Krishnagiri, Yeti Rajagiri, Revanna Siddeshwara, and Jala Siddeshwara. Ladies can shop their hearts out with Mysore silk sarees which are popular across the globe for not only their quality but their texture also. Ramanagara is popularly known as the silk city owing to its rich silk harvest and silk is harvested in the regions of Ramanagara.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Some of the famous tourist destinations of Ramanagara are Janapada Loka, also known as the “Folk World”, Ramanagara Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary, Mekedatu where two rivers merge Kaveri and Arkavathi.

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway stations from Ramanagara are Ramanagaram, Maddur, and Kengeri railway stations.

Nearest Airport: There are two airports near Ramanagara which is Bangalore airport which is at a distance of 90 km and Mysore airport which is at a distance of 110 km.

39. Madhugiri

Image Credits: Saurabh Sharan For Wikimedia Commons

Madhugiri, a small town in the Tumkur district of Karnataka, is considered as the next home to Asia’s largest monolith. This place is located at a distance of 100 km from Bangalore and is a popular tourist destination of Madhugiri Fort. During the reign of the Vijayanagar Dynasty, this fort was built with a dominant historical background.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Madhugiri Fort, Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve, Timmalapura forest

Nearest Railway Station: Gauribidanur, Hindupur, Tumkur

Nearest Airport: NA

Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Kochi

40. Makalidurga

Image Credits: Adityamadhav23 For Wikimedia commons

Best known for Makalidurga Hills, this place is a small village that one can easily visit because of a very short distance from Bangalore which is around 60 km. An old temple of Lord Shiva is located there in the village. This temple is believed to be the spot where Rishi Markandeya performed penance, an expression of repentance for their wrongdoings.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Wineries and Vineyards, Sacred and religious sites

Nearest Railway Station: Makalidurga, Thondebhavi

Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport is 36 km away from Makalidurga.

41. Chikkaballapur

Image Credit: Dineshkannambadi for Wikipedia

This is a beautiful town which is located at a distance of 57 km from Bangalore and connects to the North Bangalore region. The place is also considered a major educational hub and is home to Nandi Hills, Bhoga Nandeeshwara, Yoga Nandeeshwara temples, and Vivekananda waterfalls. The town also offers an opportunity to indulge in adventure activities like rock climbing and exploring nature.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Bhoga Nandishwara Temple, Skandagiri Hills

Best Time To Visit: June to February

Nearest Railway Station: This town has its own railway station which connects to nearby distances. On the other hand, the main railway station is Yelahanka railway station located 40 km away.

Nearest Airport: The Kempegowda International Airport is the nearest located at a distance of 58 km.

Suggested Read: Hotels In Hampi For Family

42. Savandurga

Image Credit: Palash Ray for Wikimedia Commons

Situated at a distance of 60 km to the west of Bangalore, Savandurga is one of the largest single rock formations in Asia. Comprising two hills, Billigudda and Karigudda, it also has a temple located at the foothill. This is a paradise for trekkers to experience trekking, rock climbing, and camping. Nearby this place flows the Arkavathi river and runs towards the Manchanabele Dam. Some people also visit this place to watch the birds.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Belur, Coorg, Nandi Hills

Best Time To Visit: November to May

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is the Magadi railway station located 12 km away.

Nearest Airport: The Kempegowda International Airport is the nearest located at a distance of 49 km.

43. Talakadu

Talakadu is one of the most amazing places to visit in Karnataka. The place is known for its rich past and cultural heritage. It has witnessed the rise and fall of various great empires such as the Chola Dynasty, the Hoysala Dynasty, the Pallava Dynasty, and the Vijayanagara Dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, there is a famous Vaidyanatheshwara Temple visited by a large number of tourists throughout the year. Besides, you can also indulge in a coracle ride on the river or enjoy a picnic with your closed ones.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Mallikarjuna Temple, Keerthi Narayana Temple and Vaidyanatheshwara Temple

Best Time To Visit: November to March

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is the Mysore railway station located 45 km away.

Nearest Airport: The Bangalore airport is the nearest located at a distance of 120 km.

Suggested Read: Museums In Mangalore

Image Credit: Shashidhara Halady for Wikimedia Commons

Also known as Cherrapunji of South, Agumbe is popular for its scenic beauty. The hill station is home to several rare medicinal plants such as Myristica, and Listsaea, and is known for rainforest conservation. Far from the hustle-bustle of the cities, it is one of the perfect places if you are looking for a rejuvenating vacation. The major attractions for the tourists here include visiting Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, going trekking, rafting, hiking, and bike-riding.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is the Udupi railway station located 55 km away.

Nearest Airport: Mangalore airport is the nearest located at a distance of 100 km.

Image Credit: Raghu Naik NC for Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for a place with rich natural surroundings in Karnataka, Sirsi is the perfect pick. This enchanting hill station has some of the best waterfalls in Karnataka and is quite a popular place among photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Besides, you can also visit temples, churches, and other attractions and indulge in outdoor activities like trekking and camping. The trekking trails offer enchanting views of the area.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Marikamba Temple, Ambagiri Temple, Unchalli Falls

Best Time To Visit: January to March

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is the Talguppa railway station located 55 km away.

Nearest Airport: Hubli airport is the nearest located at a distance of 104 km.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Mangalore

Image Credit: Siddaramu for Wikimedia Commons

Yana is a small village and enchanting hill station that is considered to be amongst the best tourist attractions in Karnataka. The place is a perfect escape from the hustle-bustle of city life. It offers forests, and hills and is also an amazing destination for bird watchers. Bhairaveshwara Peak is a famous peak here and when it comes to enjoying outdoor activities you can opt for trekking, camping, rock climbing, and many more.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Bhairaveshwara Peak and Mohini Peak

Best Time To Visit: October to January

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is the Hubli railway station located 139 km away.

Image Credit: Jitun2004 for Wikimedia Commons If you are looking for unique and amazing places to visit in Karnataka, Ankola is a good pick. The town is dotted with forests and temples with Mahamaya Temple being a popular tourist attraction. Besides temple tours, the other places you can visit here include Aryadurga temple, Vinhuti Falls, Honey Beach, and Nadibhag Beach. Ankola has some beautiful beaches as well where you can go and enjoy water activities like swimming, waterboarding, and more.

Popular Tourist Destinations: Mahamaya Temple, Vinhuti falls, Honey beach

Nearest Railway Station: Ankola has a railway station of its own.

Nearest Airport: Goa airport is the nearest located at a distance of 130 km.

Further Read: Places To Visit In Koppal

Best Time To Visit

Image Credit: Santhoshbapu for Wikimedia Commons

The best time to visit Karnataka is from October to April due to pleasant weather conditions. It is an ideal time for sightseeing activities. Owing to the state’s proximity to the Western Coast, summers are quite humid. However, places like Coorg, Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, and Agumbe should be visited during this time. The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C and 28°C which is ideal for activities like trekking, nature walks, and camping.

The list of fascinating places to see in Karnataka is up and ready. Mark an upcoming long weekend, pack your bags, and book a trip to Karnataka . Make sure you add these best places to visit in Karnataka to enhance your holiday experience!

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Cover Image Credit: Sumit Kumar for Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Karnataka

Which is the best place to visit in March in Karnataka?

Even though Karnataka is a great place to visit all through the year, some of the most popular places to visit in March are Wayanad, Kumta Beach, Gokarna Beach, Dandeli, and The Waterfalls of Sirsi.

Which is a good place to see in Karnataka?

The following places in Karnataka are some must-see spots: 1. Mysore Palace 2. Hampi and Badami Rocks 3. Coorg 4. Pattadakal Monuments 5. Melukote 6. Halebidu Temples 7. Karwar Beach 8. Haveri

What are the best places to visit on a 3-day trip in and around Karnataka?

Some of the must-visit places that you can explore on your long weekend in and around Karnataka are: 1. Ooty 2. Mysore 3. Kodaikanal 4. Wayana 5. Coorg 6. Badami 7. Chikmagalur 8. Hogenakkal

Which is the best place for family trips in Karnataka?

The best places in Karnataka ideal for family trips are: 1. Coorg 2. Bangalore 3. Mysore 4. Gokarna 5. Hampi 6. Bandipur National Park 7. Chikmagalur

What is Karnataka famous for?

Karnataka is known for giving a glimpse of ancient craftsmanship in the form of beautiful architectures and handicrafts. One of the famous architectural places in the state is Mysore Palace.

Which is the coldest place in Karnataka now?

The hill stations are usually the coldest, including Chamrajnagar and Coorg.

Which is the mini Switzerland of Karnataka?

Sakleshpur is called mini Switzerland of Karnataka, and is famous for its surreal beauty and coffee and spice plantations.

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Abhay Kumar

Abhay Kumar is a graduate of English Literature. Writing is both his hobby and his passion. He writes academic research articles as well as poetry and short fiction. He loves reading science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, and translated fiction. He also loves traveling and writing about himself in the third person.

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Karnataka in 7 Days: A Day-Wise Itinerary To Explore The Best Places to Visit in Karnataka

Now that the year end is approaching, you must have a shortlist of places that you could tentatively visit to end the year with a bang. I just have one question to ask here – is Karnataka on the list? In terms of tourism, it's a place that is often eclipsed by its more popular neighbours down south – Kerala and Tamil Nadu. There could be many reasons for this, but let's save that discussion for later and look at some places to visit in Karnataka.

Explore more about Karnataka Tourism here!

Places to visit in Karnataka

From plains to mountains, valleys to rivers, high-rises to ancient temples, and artificial gardens to coffee plantations, this eighth largest Indian state, has everything in plenty. So, I personally assure you that your stay will be anything but boring.

Here is a week-long itinerary to help you experience the best of Karnataka . Here we go:

Arrive in Bengaluru

Credits: Indian Rail

Break the fast

If you didn't have anything to eat in the flight/train, here are two great options.

Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR)

Credits: Mavalli Tiffin Room

MTR is a South Indian legend. This is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka to have authentic Udupi food.

Here & Now

Credits: Here & Now

For your western breakfast fixes.

Afternoon attractions

Bangalore Palace

Credits: John Hoey

Believe it or not, it took over 80 year for the Bangalore Palace to be completed! Today, the fluorescent blue tiles and open courtyards of the palace can take you back to the Victorian era.

You can either go for the crowded street joints outside the Bangalore Palace, or if you want to lunch in luxury, you can always go to the ITC Pavilion, which is 20 minutes away, for some delectable options.

Evening attractions

Iskcon Temple

Credits: Wikimedia

If you are believer, the fantastic ISKCON Temple is where you should go to pay your respects in the evening. Situated in Rajajinagar, this structure has a grand facade with a gold-plated flag post that stands proportionally high at 17m tall. The temple opens its gates to devotees at 4:15 in the morning.

Arbor Brewing Company India

Credits: Arbor

Once you are in Bengaluru, you just need to experience its nightlife. Head over to the posh stretch at MG Road and go club-hopping without guilt. Arbor , Indian Brewing Company and Hoppipola are some popular picks.

Drive to Mysuru

Credits: Free Image Collection

After having an early breakfast at your hotel, rent a ride and drive off to experience the natural beauty of Karnataka in Mysuru. It's just 3 hours away.

Day attractions

Although Mysuru is naturally gifted, there are several manmade marvels here as well, that have withstood the test of time and the critique of art connoisseurs.

Mysore Palace

Arguably the most beautiful monument in the whole of Karnataka , the Mysore Palace is the official residence of the Wodeyars – the rulers of Mysore. Having an annual 6 million visitors, it is only second to the Taj Mahal in terms of attracting tourists in India.

Saint Philomena Church

Also known as St. Joseph's Cathedral, the Neo-Gothic design and architecture of this structure is inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. It is one of Asia's tallest churches and one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Karnataka.

Hotel Orignal Vinayaka Mylari

There can only be one place for lunch in Mysore – Vinayaka Mylari . Their dosais are to die for.

Night attractions

Karanji Lake

Credits: Riju K

There's a lot you can do at the Karanji Lake. It is surrounded by a butterfly park with India's biggest walk-through aviary. There is the Regional Museum of Natural History too located along the banks. Since the property is owned by the Mysore Zoo Authority, the entry to the lake is paid.

Tiger Trail

Credits: Tiger Trail - Royal Orchid Metropole

What's better than a hale and hearty dinner? One that comes with a stunning setting. At The Tiger Trail , you'll get more than your food fantasies with the heritage buffet on display. The buffet includes a 40+ variety of food items on an average day.

Soaking & Chilling in Mysuru

Credits: Vhines

Nope. You aren't leaving Mysuru anytime soon. You need to soak it up in order to finally realise that Karnataka is, indeed, a place you criminally underrated. Hence a day more here is recommended.

The Old House

Credits: The Old House

The Old House Cafe lives up to its name - it's old, it's inside a house, and it also serves a wonderful Continental breakfast. Be here early to get a seat.

Chamundeshwari Temple

Credits: Jithesh

Full and brimming, it's time to drive the 13km to the Chamunda Hill. It takes just an hour, but it gives you views that you won't forget in your entire lifetime. The historical Chamundeshwari Temple was named after the fierce Shakti goddess and is situated atop the hill. It is considered one of the 18 Shakti Peeths in India.

Lunch while driving back to Mysuru

While on your way back, there's a very famous The Foodie Restaurant, which serves great lunch buffets and good à la carte.

Back in Mysuru

Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery

Credits: Sarangib

Remember when I commented on those art connoisseurs at the beginning of this itinerary. Well, this is the place that blew all of them away. The Jaganmohan Palace used to be home to the Mysore royal family before the construction of the Mysore Palace was completed. This structure has now been turned into an art gallery.

Radisson Blu Plaza

Credits: Spring - Radisson Blu

If you feel like splurging on yourself, Radisson Blu has the best tikkas in town. It's the best meal you would have had in the past few days, I assure you.

Drive to Hassan

You've been to many touristy places now. In order to really feel like an explorer, you need to go further and deeper. Hassan is the place for that in Karnataka . Merely a 3-hour-drive from Mysuru.

Enroute, visit the Shravanabelagola

Bhagawan Bahubali Statue

This very famous temple falls along the way. The gigantic Gomateshwara statue here was carved out of a single stone in 981 AD and was meant as a tribute to Bhagwan Bahubali, a much revered figure amongst the Jains.

Reach Hassan. Have lunch at Hoysala Village.

Vasantha Mantapa

If you want to witness the culture of an alien place, you must visit its villages. Hoysala is a beautiful village, where you can eat at a local's place. The village is also a haven for believers, since it has a lot of ancient temples, including the Vasantha Mantapa.

Take Rest. Visit Belur.

Chennakeshava Temple

If you are in the mood for more (but more amazing) temples, go for a short drive to the nearby Belur to admire the Chennakesava Temple. The temple is proposed to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Have dinner at a local's house. There aren't many commercial eateries in Hassan.

Drive to Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur.

Credits: Prashantby

Day 5 is full of pleasant experiences and an hour-and-a-half-long drive to Chikmagalur. This will be your last urban stay while in Karnataka , hence enjoy the fresh air amidst the coffee plantations.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Credits: Yos C. Wiranata

Once in Chikmagalur, visit the unadulterated animal settlement of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. If you are fortunate enough, you might even spot a majestic tiger here.

Have lunch at one of the eateries inside the sanctuary. Roam around till its time for evening tea.

Trek to Kudremukh

It's time for some backpacking, to experience nature up close and personal. A visit to Kudremukh is only possible via an easy trek. Once up there, you'll thank yourself for going on a tour of places to visit in Karnataka.

Have a lazy dinner at the place you're staying at.

Since the evenings will be chilly here, ask your guesthouse folks to set up a campfire. Sing songs, tell corny stories and have a sumptuous dinner.

Drive to Mangaluru

Last stop of the amazing trip. Mangaluru is a suburban settlement about 150 kms away from Hassan. A very interesting place.

Mangaluru justifies the age old 'unity in diversity' phrase that is often used for India. This small town is replete with temples of local gods, gurdwaras, and gargantuan churches. There is no compromise here in terms of aesthetics in architecture.

Mangala Devi Temple

Credits: Wikipedia

The city of Mangalore is named after the deity, Mangaladevi. According to folklore, the temple is believed to have been constructed by Lord Parashurama. With most of its structure made of wood, the Kerala-style architecture is evident everywhere.

St. Aloysius Chapel

This chapel is important in the history of Mangalore, as it was constructed by the Italian Jesuits, who played a vital role in the education and general upliftment of the Mangalorean Catholic community. This is an architectural marvel with paintings all over the wall, akin to the chapels of Rome.

Credits: Machali

Since Mangaluru is a coastal town, it is famous for its seafood. Machali and Grimanja's are two such restaurants that have highly influenced the way the entire town eats its fish. You can visit one of these for a king-sized lunch.

Sultan Battery

Time is almost up. But before you go back to your mundane life, reminisce about the crazy week that's just gone past you while witnessing the sunset from the Sunset Battery watchtower.

For the night, you can go to the Tannirbhavi Beach nearby.

The Cardamom Restaurant is as much luxury as you can get at this tiny place, but this doesn't mean they don't cook well. Have your dinner in peace by the poolside, while talking about your next trip to Karnataka .

Credits: Cardamom - The Gateway

Pabbas Ice Creams

Your Mangalore stay is not complete without indulging your sweet tooth at the ultra-famous Pabbas .

Wake up to the famous sunrise of Mangaluru

Consider the beautiful sunrise at Mangalore as a metaphor for reigniting the traveller in you in Karnataka . Make plans, travel more often.

Credits: Pixabay

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Explore the Best of Karnataka by Visiting These 20 Top Tourist Destinations

It is the richness of Karnataka which will surprise you. You will find ample amounts of it in its beaches, historical ruins, palaces, forests, religious sites and also in its cuisine. One day, the historian in you might lead you to the ruins of Hampi, while on the other, you might be tempted to explore its wildlife in the 27 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries scattered across the state. Sitting down to a meal of udupi sambar and Mysore masala dosa is as satisfying as standing before the Jog Falls or exploring the tea plantations of Coorg. You are transported to different time periods, see the many faces of nature and find sufficient opportunities for unwinding and relaxation when you plan your holiday in Karnataka. In this blog, we tell you the 20 best places to visit in Karnataka and what makes them so special.

Recommended Tours

1. Ruins of Hampi – Time comes to a standstill here!

For lack of a better word, we should refer to it as the ruins of Hampi. This was once a prosperous city, abundant in riches of all kinds. It is from the writings of various travellers over the ages, from Ibn Battuta to Fernao Nunes, that we are acquainted with its immense power and wealth. Today, Hampi stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, still managing to evoke surprise and admiration from visitors. While exploring the temples, elephants stables, chariots, bazaar streets and other parts of the ruins, various images of prosperity and opulence appear in your mind. You could visit Hampi as a solo traveller, or with your family. A backpacking trip here will give you a lot to talk about.

Top Things to See & Do

• Queen’s Bath
• Vijay Vittala, Virupaksha, Hanuman & Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple
• Lakshmi Narasimha Statue
• Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
• Matanga Hill
• Hampi Street Bazaar
• Royal Enclosure

20 Most Explored Historical Monuments in India

2. Coorg – Happiness call it its home!

Call it Coorg of Kodagu, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Karnataka. You should visit this place for its coffee plantations and its distinct culture. Topographically, it enjoys a high altitude, and is spread out leisurely on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. The richness in its culture is also reflected in its wildlife, as it boasts three wildlife sanctuaries and a famous national park in India called Nagarhole National Park , nowadays popularly known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park. Checking out the traditional costume, known as “kupaya”, is as exciting as trying out the native dishes, kadumbuttu and pandi curry. If the waterfalls don’t interest you, maybe the temples will. If both of them don’t, then you can always explore the coffee plantation and take in the beauty of the countryside.

Best Things to See & Do

• Nagarahole National Park
• Abbey Falls
• Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple
• Dubare Elephant Camp
• Brahmagiri Peak
• Raja’s Seat
• Mandalpatti View Point

12 Beautiful Animals to Spot in India’s National Parks

3. Bandipur National Park – Haven for wildlife lovers!

Photo: https://bit.ly/2OHFd6Y

Bandipur National Park is famous for many things, from spotting of tigers and elephants to a wide variety of birds. Along with Mudumalai, Nagarhole and Wayanad parks, it forms a part of Nilgiri biosphere reserve. The vegetation of the park is marked by a rich variety of trees like rosewood, sandalwood, Indian Kino, Indian Laurel, giant clumping bamboo and teak. Besides elephants and tigers, other animals which you can spot in Bandipur National Park include Indian palm, giant flying squirrel, rusty spotted cat, cat leopard, dhole and four horned antelope.

• Jeep Safari
• Spotting wildlife
• Birdwatching

4. Halebeedu – Unparalleled craftsmanship!

There was a time when Halebeedu was the second capital of the Hoysalas and was called Drawasamudra. Today, its temples tell of its grand past through their incredible architecture. They are the embodiment of excellent craftsmanship and represent the achievements of art and architecture under the Hoysala Empire. It got its present name after being conquered by the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century. The carvings on the temples don’t just restrict themselves to religious themes. In fact, one of them shows the harmful effects of consuming alcohol. The attention paid to the tiniest detail in the sculptures is really worth praising over and over. An example of this is the depiction of 1200 elephants in different postures.

• Kedareshwara Temple
• Hoysaleshwara Temple

Enjoy Your Trip to 15 Top Historical Places & Monuments in Karnataka

5. Mysore – Wrapped in royalty!

Mysore is synonymous with the Mysore Palace, an exercise in sheer opulence and extravagance. It is the royal past of this city that will continue to attract tourists, a past wrapped in riches and glory. First ruled by a succession of kings from the Wadiyar dynasty, then by Tipu Sultan, the “Tiger of Mysore”, and finally by the British, Mysore has seen more than its fair share of historical adventures. As a tourist, you will find a lot of opportunities for sightseeing, apart from the Mysore Palace. Religious structures and administrative ones, European classical structures standing alongside Indian ones, palaces, colleges and landmarks, there is much to keep you interested.

• Mysore Palace
• Lalith Mahal Palace
• Jagan Mohan Palace
• Crawford Hall
• Devaraja Market
• Government House
• Deputy Commissioner’s Office
• Silver Jubilee Clock Tower
• Parakal Mutt
• Oriental Research Institute
• Karanji Mansion
• Wellington House
• Vasantha Mahal

Popular Monuments in India that Reflect Rich Culture and Heritage

6. Gokarna – Just enjoy yourself!

The town of Gokarna would have been just another sleepy little town, just like so many others in Karnataka, had it not been for Gokarna Beach. Fondly called the OM Beach, as it resembles the religious Hindu symbol OM, it is a picture of undisturbed serenity. The shoreline of this famous beach in Karnataka , stretches all the way until it meets a rocky cliff, as is the case with several other beaches here. It is connected to other beaches via a boat ride, apart from walking. Boating is looked forward to enthusiastically, as are banana boat rides. Most of all though, it is dolphin spotting which promises to make your day.

• Dolphin spotting
• Banana boat rides
• Watch the spectacular sunset

Visit to the Top 20 Destinations with Friends in India

7. Srirangapatna – Witnessing the legacy of Tipu Sultan!

Just like Mysore, Srirangapatna has a royal past, which presents itself before tourists in a stylish way. Throughout its history, it has served as the historical capital of various kings and dynasties, including Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan. It is located just 16 km from Mysore, another famous place to visit in Karnataka, and is blessed with an incredibly rich cultural heritage. The town is dotted with structures like the Dariya Daulat Palace, which attests to his daring might and courage, with which he defeated the British in several battles. Then there is the Tipu Sultan Fort, whose walls depict the valour and gallantry of Tipu. The sightseeing opportunities do not end with just the historical structures, as there are places of natural beauty too.

• Dariya Daulat Palace
• Nimishamba Temple
• Balmuri Falls
• Tipu Sultan Fort
• Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon
• Jumma Masjid
• Ranganathaswamy Temple

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8. Agumbe – Looks a lot like Malgudi!

Those who have read Malgudi Days by R.K. Narayan always wish there was a place like it. Well, Agumbe is as close as you will ever come to finding Malgudi. It is a small sleepy village in the Malnad region in Shimoga district. Because of the heavy rainfall it receives, it is called the “Cherrapunji of the South”. Among the various hill stations in India, it stands out for being home to India’s exclusive Rainforest Research Station. You should visit this village during your Karnataka tour, to revel in the relaxed ambience and visit all the lovely places that it has to offer.

• Gopalakrishna Temple
• Jogi Gundi Falls
• Barkana Falls
• Onake Abbi Falls
• Sunset Point

9. Jog Falls – Falling with a vehemence!

Jog Falls is formed when River Sharavathy descends ferociously from an incredible height of almost 253 meters. It is the second highest plunge waterfall in Asia and should be visited during the monsoon to watch it in all its magnificence. The river swells up during the monsoons as a result of the Linganamakki Dam releasing excess water. The best part about visiting the Jog Falls in Karnataka is the opportunity to see it up close. A series of steps, numbering almost 1000, take you to the base of the falls. Watch it from a distance though, and the Jog Falls look like they were falling from the skies and forming a thick mist as they land, as if drawing attention of the onlookers to their intensity and uncontrolled rage.

• Photography

Where to See Waterfalls in India?

10. Mulliyana Giri – Towards the Peak!

The Western Ghats start from Gujarat and stretch all the way to Tamil Nadu . Along the way, they cover several states, Karnataka being one of them. Mulliyana Giri is the highest peak of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, and for trekkers, presents an exciting challenge. A part of Baba Budangiri Hills of Chikmagalur district, it stands proudly at an impressive height of almost 1929 m. It is named after a sage known as Mulappa Swamy, who is believed to have meditated in the caves located in close proximity. Completing the entire trek should take you about 4 hours while covering a distance of almost 4 km. The difficulty level of the trek is designated as easy to moderate, which means that even amateurs can try it. September to April are the best months to try this trek.

• Sightseeing

Best 25 Weekend Getaways from Mysore

11. Shravanabelagola – A famous Jain pilgrimage destination!

Shravanabelagola is located at a close proximity to Hassan district in Karnataka, and houses the Gomateshwara Bahubali Statue, which is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Jainism. It has an immense historical value too, apart from spiritual. This is believed to be the place where Chandragupta Maurya breathed his last after becoming a Jain monk and renouncing worldly desires. Throughout history, this place has attracted pilgrims, kings, monks, students and others. It is home to two hills, Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri, and it was in the former that Chandragupta Maurya is believed to have meditated. The colossal statue of Gomateshwara, standing at 57 feet, is located on Vindhyagiri Hill. Shravanabelagola also hosts the Mahamastakabhisheka, or the Great Consecration, every twelve years. On this occasion, the statue is worshipped by placing 1008 pots filled with sacred water. It is an impressive spectacle, and attracts people in impressive numbers.

• Bhagwan Bahubali Statue
• Chandragiri Hill
• Vindhyagiri Hill
• Chamundayara Basadi
• Aregal Basadi
• Belagola Pond
• Odegal Basadi

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12. Bijapur, Karnataka – Glory of Bahmani Sultanates!

Bijapur is great for those who love exploring historical sites, for it is dotted with several of them. Although it is known as Bijapur today, there was a time when it was known as Vijajpura. The city was formed by the Kalyani Chalukyas during the 10-11th centuries, followed by Yadavas, and then by the Bahmani Sultanate. It was during the latter’s reign that most of the tourist attractions like Bijapur Fort, Jama Masjid and Gol Gumbaz, were built. Although there are several mausoleums, mosques and watchtowers, it is the Gol Gumbaz which stands like a giant among others, always managing to impress visitors with its aesthetic and proportions.

• Jama Masjid
• Bijapur Fort
• Ibrahim Roza
• Malik-e-Maidan

Journey Through Karnataka’s Heritage Sites

13. Badami – Fabulous rock cut temples!

Even though Badami may not be as large as it was during the reign of the Badami Chalukyas, it has retained its majesty and evokes immense respect. It is associated with numerous mythological tales and legends, and is referred to in the Puranas as Vatapi. The Badami Cave Temples are the greatest attraction in Karnataka, all of which are accessible via a steep rock climb. The rock cut temples are found across four caves, each adorned with exquisite carvings. The first three caves depict various gods and goddesses in Hinduism, including Lord Shiva and Vishnu, in different avatars. In Cave 4, you come across the various Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers and guides in Jainism). Highly respected figures in the Jain religion, from Bahubali to Mahavira, are depicted in this cave. Other than these, there are other caves that touch upon different themes, from Buddhism to scenes of everyday life. Head towards the top of the cave temples, and your eyes meet the brownish waters of thee Agastya Lake, draped in all its mystery. Adjacent to it lies the Bhootnath Temple.

• Badami Cave Temples
• Agyasta Lake
• Northern Fort Temple
• Badami Fort

14. St. Mary’s Island – Take a leap of faith!

Photo: https://bit.ly/2M4WgO7

St. Mary’s Island still retains the cross which was placed by Vasco Da Gama upon landing there in 1498. After landing on the island, he named it O Padrão de Santa Maria, as a dedication to Mother Mary. The island is noticed for its unique salt rock formations, and because of this, has been declared as a National Geological Monument. Once you reach the island, start walking towards the right until you reach the cliff. Take a plunge into the sea here. Remember though, that you will have to swim for almost 5 minutes once you start, as there are no stops between the cliff and the beach. A unique sight awaits you at the shell beach, where shells take the place of sand. There is also a designated swimming zone along with facilities for banana boat rides. You can reach the island by hiring a ferry from Malpe Beach.

• Cliff Jumping
• Visit the Stella Maris Church
• Explore the Shell Beach

Plan a Tour to Top Weekend Getaways from Hyderabad

15. Kudremukh – The Horse Shaped Mountain!

It is places like Kudremukh that make Karnataka what it is. At first sight, you could dismiss it as another mountain range amongst the many mountain ranges in Karnataka. This is a mountain with a difference though. Not only is it the third highest peak in Karnataka, one side of it also resembles the face of a horse. It gets its name Kudremukh, which means horse-faced in the local language, from the fact that one side of it resembles a horse. A particular attraction is the Kudremukh National Park, which was established to protect endangered species of animals, from the lion-tailed macaque to the tiger. It was declared a national park in 1987.

• Hanuman Gundi
• Kalhatty Waterfalls
• Naga Teertha

Top 13 Places for Wildlife Tours in Karnataka

16. Somnathpur – Masterpieces of Hoysala architecture

Somnathpur is located almost 35 km from Mysore and is dotted with fabulous structures built during the reign of the Hoysalas. Magnificent temples dot the town at regular intervals, with each of them as enchanting as the other. The most famous of these is Kesava Temple, with its triple towers. Its outer walls are adorned with images where the particular attention to detail in each of them is amazing. On the ceiling, your eyes meet the images of gods, goddesses and scenes from the epics. One is forced to think about what must have inspired the creation of such masterpieces.

• Chennakesava Temple
• Somnathpur Temple
• Gunja Narasimha
• Gargeshwari Temple

17. Bengaluru – As cosmopolitan as it gets!

Finally, we have Bengaluru – the capital of Karnataka and a hub for high tech industries. It has everything that you ask for, in order to let you have a wonderful time. You can go shopping, visit a wildlife sanctuary, spend a quiet evening in a park or hangout at one of the glitzy malls. It is a cosmopolitan city and chances are that you will fall in love with the city sooner or later. There are heritage sites and religious ones, museums, lakes, art galleries and plenty of other opportunities for having a great time.

• Cubbon Park
• Lalbagh Gardens
• Karnataka Chitrakala Parishad
• Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
• National Gallery of Modern Art
• Ulsoor Lake
• Bull Temple
• Dodda Ganesh Temple
• Jamia Masjid
• Attara Kacheri
• Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum
• Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple

12 Amazing Kids Friendly Places to Explore near Bengaluru

18. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary – In the company of birds!

Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is the place to spot a variety of birds, in all colours, shapes and sizes. To visit this bird sanctuary, you will have to visit the district of Shimoga, about 16km from Sorab. The sanctuary is surrounded by the Gudavi Lake, which is filled to the brim during the monsoons. The sanctuary is home to almost 217 species of flora and fauna. Some of the most famous among these include night heron, grey heron, Indian shag, white headed crane, junglefowl, brahminy kite and black headed crane.

• Spot a variety of birds

Other attractions to check out in Karnataka

Apart from the famous tourist destinations, here are two other attractions which you can check out during your trip to Karnataka.

Famous Bird Sanctuaries and National Parks around Bangalore

19. Infant Jesus Church – Infant Jesus Blesses You!

We bet you’ve never seen Jesus Christ worshipped as an infant before, have you? That is what makes this church so special. In the Infant Jesus Church in Bengaluru, Jesus Christ is worshipped as an infant, and what a beautiful sight that is. The foundation for this church was laid on 8th April, 1969 by Reverend Dr. S. Lourdusamy, the then Archbishop of Bengaluru. In its initial years, the church stood in the form of an old tent, which was famously known then as the Tent Church. It lasted for over eight years. The new church which you see today, was inaugurated on 9th June, 2005. It can accommodate about 2500 people and has an opening which runs all around the church. The interiors have been so designed so as to allow the people to face the altar, irrespective of where they are seated.

• Jesus Christ infant statue

Head to the Most Famous Churches in India

20. Gangadeshwara Temple – Astrophysical brilliance!

Try visiting the Gangadeshwara Temple on the occasion of Makar Sakranti, and you will be treated to a visual spectacle that is backed by amazingly accurate scientific knowledge, architectural brilliance and astrophysics. On this occasion, a ray of light flashes through the horns of the stone bull outside the temple and falls directly on the deity inside the cave, thereby illuminating it. This phenomenon can be observed on the 14th and 15th of January every year. Built during the reign of Kempe Gowda I, it consists of a moon, sun disc monoliths, stone umbrella, Shivalinga and three cave passages. Other features of the temple which evoke admiration are the pillars built in Vijayanagara style, statues of doorkeepers to the cave and the Shivling, which is the presiding deity.

• Massive discs
• Objects associated with Lord Shiva
• Doorkeepers to the cave
• Shivling – the presiding deity

These are the 20 best places to visit in Karnataka that you can visit with your friends and family, and are great for exploration and sightseeing. Let us know how many of these have you visited or intend to visit in the comment box below.

In case, you want us to plan your holiday in Karnataka , give us a call on +91-8744012050 or drop an email at [email protected]. We at Tour My India design some of the best holiday packages in India and abroad.

About Vishwajit Sharma

Writing, for me, is an artistic expression of the countless thoughts flooding my mind. For now, travel content writing is what keeps me going! In my spare time, I like nothing better than immersing myself in a book, along with a cuppa! A classic movie helps too! I define traveling as a process of self-discovery. Hailing from Darjeeling, my ultimate desire is to escape to the hills, with the mountain air and solitude as my constant companions!

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• 40 Best Historical Places in Karnataka

Here are some of the best historical places in Karnataka:

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Mysore Palace

Nestled in the center of Mysore facing the eastern face of Chamundi Hills lies the royal Mysore Palace. It is Wadiyar dynasty's official residence and one of the most popular historical monuments in Karnataka having being visited by over 6 million travelers annually. Location - Mysore, Karnataka. Timings – Everyday: 10.00 am to 5.30 pm. Sundays and Public Holidays: 7.00 pm - 8.00 pm.There is a Sound and Light Show held at the palace on all days except government holidays and Sundays. The timings are: 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm Entry Fee - Tickets for Foreign and Indian Adults is Rs.70 per head. While for children below 13 years and above 7 years is Rs.30 per head.

Bangalore Palace

The majestic Bangalore Palace is a great epitome of beauty and architecture. Built back in 1878, the palace is spread across 45,000 square feet which boasts a mixture of Scottish Gothic and Tudor architecture. Apart from being a popular historical attraction, the palace also hosts various rock shows and cultural events for the visitors to witness. Audiotape in both English and Hindi is available inside the palace such that no visitor faces language issues while exploring the history of the palace. Location - Bangalore, Karnataka. Timings - 10:00 am to 5:30 pm Entry Fee - For Indians INR 230 and for Foreigner INR 460.

Biday Fort is one of the historical monuments in Karnataka that hold architectural brilliance of the ancient South Indian dynasty. The fort is now considered one of the formidable ones in India. Bidar Fort's actual origin has been lost in time but it is said that the massive fort has had a vibrant past and has witnessed the rise and fall of a number of dynasties including the Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Satvahanas, and Yadavas followed by the Nizams and Mughals. Over the years, it has witnessed development, renovation, and constructional enrichment. Photography is permitted in the fort making it an ideal place for photography enthusiasts as well. Location - Bidar, Karnataka Timings - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Entry Fee – NA

Badami Cave Temple

The Badami cave temple is a complex featuring 4 Hindu cave temples. This historical attraction is considered an ideal example of Indian rock-cut architecture (Badami Chalukya architecture) that dates back to the 6th century. All the 4 cave temples feature different themes and Hindu divinities sculptures for the visitors to explore. Location - Badami, a small town in Bagalkot district in northern Karnataka. Timings - 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Entry Fee - INR 10 per person for Indians and INR 100 per person for Foreign Nationals. For kids up to 15 years of age, the entry is free.

Sri Chennakeshava temple, Belur

Crafted in the early 12th century, the Sri Chennakeshava temple is Hoysala architecture's grandest example. Tourists from over centuries have been flocking to the temple to adore the intricate sculptures and works of art from the rich ancient times. The temple was developed was designed after recruiting the best artists and architects such that new styles and designs could be crafted during the Hoysala period. The temple complex comprises of 2 ornate pillars, one was built during the Hoysala period and the other was built in the Vijayanagar period. Built using soapstone, the temple features a detained finishing which keeps it distinguished from other temples of the Hoysala period. Location - Hassan district of Karnataka Timings - 7.00 am to 8.00 pm Entry Fee – NA

Royal Enclosure

The Royal Enclosure was the seat of power of the renowned Vijayanagar Kingdom. In its prime, it features almost around 45 buildings including temples, tanks, durbar halls, underground chambers, and platforms. The brilliant architecture is of the symbolic Vijayanagar style with a tinge of Mughal influence. Featuring three entrances, the Royal Enclosure marks ample use of soapstone and granite. The Lotus Mahal, watchtowers, and elephant stables are excellent examples of the influence of the Islamic style of architecture in the Royal Enclosure. It is one of the most undiscovered and interesting historical places in Karnataka for you to explore. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee – NA

Best of Bangalore

Hampi Archeological Ruins

Hampi Archeological Ruins incorporated a number of sites that require nearly an entire day or more to be thoroughly explored. The collection of Hampi Monuments are widely classified into Muslim, Hindu, and Jain monuments, comprising temples, hill monuments, elephant stables, mosques and tombs, complexes, shrines, water reservoir, community kitchens, and fountains. Out of all the ancient structures, some are still intact. Some of the monuments worth a visit include Virupaksha Temple & Market Complex, Hazara Rama Temple, Queen’s Bath, Vitthala Temple & Market Complex, and Pattabhirama Temple Complex. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - Generally, the ruin sites are open for the visitors on all the days from sunrise to sunset. But, some specifics might be applicable to some of the attractions. Entry Fee – NA

Bangalore Fort

In 1537, Bangalore Fort began as a mud fort by the founder of Bengaluru, Kempe Gowda. Later, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan's father converted it into a massive fort of stone. This historical beauty has witnessed Mysore empire's struggle against the British. Nestled within the fort is the Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan, which is another piece of brilliant architecture to explore and adore. The interiors of the palace boast rich Islamic inscriptions. The walls of the Summer Palace still hold patches of its original paint. The walls also feature murals and paintings which narrate royal historical stories. Location - Bangalore, Karnataka Timings - 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Entry Fee – INR 5 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners

Elephant Stables, Hampi

Elephant Stables in Hampi is quite an impressive historical structure that was used as a shelter for the Vijayanagara Empire's royal elephants. It is one of those few ancient structures of Hampi that has not suffered much damage and still stands almost intact. It not just showcases the outstanding craftsmanship of those days but also indicates the royalty of the elephants in that era. The stable features the brilliant Indo-Islamic style of architecture with eleven dome-shaped massive chambers all lined in a row. Each chamber is huge enough to accommodate two elephants. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM on all days of the week Entry Fee – INR 10.00 for Indian travelers and INR 250.00 for foreign travelers. Entry for kids under 15 years of age is free of cost.

Bara Kaman, Bijapur

Bara Kaman is Ali Adil Shah II's unfinished mausoleum. Adil Shahi dynasty's Ali Adil Shah wanted a mausoleum to be built of unmatched architectural brilliance. Twelve arches were planned to be placed horizontally and vertically surrounding Ali Adil Shah's tomb. However, the construction was left incomplete due to some unknown reason. Only two vertical arches were raised. Rumors say that the development was stopped as once completed its shadow would reach the renowned Gol Gombaz. These days, the remains of the 12 horizontal arches are available to be seen. Location - Bijapur, Karnataka Timings - 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee – NA

Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur

Gol Gumbaz, one of the most visited historical places in Karnataka is King Mohammed Adil Shah's mausoleum. The tomb was started being constructed in 1626 and completed in the year 1656. It showcases the excellent Deccan style of architecture and is named so owing to the Gol Gombadh meaning the circular dome. Expanding in an expansive area of 18,000 sq. ft. Gol Gumbaz features one of the world's biggest single chamber areas. Owing to the acoustics of the space even the slightest of whisper can be clearly heard on the mausoleum's other side. This is known as the whispering gallery. Location - Vijayapura (formerly Bijapur), Karnataka. Timings - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is closed on Fridays RED MARK Entry Fee – For Indian Tourists INR 10 and for Foreign Tourists INR 100.

Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebid

Hoysaleswara temple, also popularly known as the Halebidu temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an ancient temple dating back to the 12th century. It is the Halebidu town's largest monument. Built on the banks of a man-made lake, the temple is a beauty of the Hoysala Empire. The temple is a renowned Shaivism tradition monument, yet it incorporates themes from Hinduism's Shaktism and Vaishnavism tradition. It also includes pictures from Jainism. The temple used soapstone for its creation and is considered one of the notable historical monuments in Karnataka owing to its intricate reliefs, iconography, inscriptions, sculptures, detailed friezes and history. Location - Halebidu, a town in Hassan District in the state of Karnataka. Timings - 6:30 am to 9:00 pm Entry Fee – NA

Best of Coorg

Mahakuta Temple, Badami

Nestled in the tiny village of Mahakuta, Mahakuta group of temples is a delight for fine architecture lovers, mirroring the rich ancient rock-cut constructional pattern of the times of the Chalukyas. Most of the shrines here, dedicated to Lord Shiva were developed back in the 7th century out of which the largest one is the Mahakuteshwara temple. Similar to several other temples of this region, the Mahakuta group of temples showcase a mingle of Nagara styles and Dravidian styles of architecture. A large tank is featured within the complex which is fed by a natural spring. It is said that a dip in the waters of this tank washes away all the sins of a person. Location - Mahakuta, a small village in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka. Timings - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee – NA

Durga Temple, Aihole

The Durga temple is a Hindu Temple of the medieval times. One of the fine historical monuments in Karnataka this temple is also a pending UNESCO world heritage site's part. Popular for its fine carvings it also represents a final stage transition of the ancient to the later Hindu temple architecture. It was built in the later 7th century by the Chalukya Dynasty. The temple's architecture is predominantly of the Dravida style while some areas also feature the Nagara style. Overall, the Durga Temple majorly belongs to the Badami Chalukya architecture. Location - Aihole, Karnataka. Timings - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Entry Fee – INR 15 For the citizens of Indian states, BIMSTEC and SAARC countries. INR 200 for citizens of other countries. Entry is absolutely free for kids up to 15 years of age.

Bahubali, Shravanabelagola

Bahubali, the son of Rishabhanatha is a much much-revered figure among the Jains. It is said that for a year he motionlessly meditated in a standing posture. During this period a number of climbing plants grew around his legs. After the completion of his meditation, it is said that Bahubali had attained omniscience. The other name of Bahubali is Kammateswara Gommateshwara owing to the massive Gommateshwara statue dedicated to him. This 57-foot massive statue was developed by the Ganga Dynasty commander and minister named Chavundaraya. This statue is one of the biggest free-standing statues in the whole wide world. Location - Shravanabelagola in the Hassan district, Karnataka. Timings - 6:30 am to 11:30 am and 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm in the afternoon. Entry Fee - There is no entry fee though you can hire a guide who would take around INR 200 and provide additional information.

Raja's Tomb, Coorg

Raja’s tomb also popularly known as Gaddige is one of those historical monuments in Karnataka that is nestled on a beautiful hill station. It depicts the Indo-Sarcenic style of architecture which use to prevail during those times. The monument features royal Kodavas' mortal remains. The tombs are constructed with turrets at the corners and tombs at the center just like how the Muhammadan style mirrors. On the top corners of the tomb, Nandi figures are carved. Most of the tombs belong to Muslim dynasties and kings but the idol placed inside the Raja's tomb is that of Lord Shiva. This is a much fascinating fact about the attraction. Location - Coorg, Karnataka Timings - 6:00 am to 8:30 pm Entry Fee - There is no entry fee though they collect INR 10 in the name of maintenance.

Belgaum Fort

Belgaum Fort started developing in the year 1204 AD by Jaya Raya, a Rattan Dynasty's ally. Since then, it has undergone a number of renovations under dynastic rulers over centuries. Dating back to the Adil Shahi dynasty the fort has a history and religious significance. The fort has witnessed various battles and has been captured by a number of rules over the years until it was finally stabilized by the British. It also holds significance in India’s freedom struggle as the British imprisoned Mahatma Gandi in this fort. Location - Belagavi City, Belagavi district, Karnataka. Timings - 8 am to 6:30 pm Entry Fee - INR 25 for Indian visitors and INR 150 for foreign nationals.

Namdroling Monastery, Bylakuppe

The Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery is Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism's largest teaching center in the world. Nestled in Mysuru District's Bylakuppe, the monastery is home to over 5,000 lamas (both nuns and monks). It also features a hospital, a religious college, and a junior high school in the name of Yeshe Wodsal Sherab Raldri Ling. The monastery was built by Palyul lineage's 11th throne holder. This initial structure of the monastery was a bamboo constructed temple which covered an area of almost 80 sq. ft. It was carved from the government granted jungle to the Tibetan Exiles. Location - Bylakuppe, Mysore District, Karnataka. Timings - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Best of Chikmagalur

Group Of Monuments at Pattadakkal

Pattadakal, the ‘City of the Crown Rubies’ is not just one of the popular historical places in Karnataka but also a world heritage site for witnessing the renowned Chalukya monuments. It is a village on the banks of river Malaprabha. The place features 10 temples, each one displaying excellent architectural features which are a perfect blend of southern and northern architectural forms. Nine out of the town temples are Hindu temples while the remaining one is a Jain temple. The architecture, sculptures, and carvings of all the ten temples depict the ancient rich kingdoms. Location - Pattadakal, a small town in the Bagalkot district of north Karnataka. Timings - open from sunrise to sunset. Entry Fee - INR 10 for Indian citizens and travelers from the SAARC countries. For other visitors, the entry fee is INR 250 or USD 5 per person. For kids up to 15 years of age, the entry is free.

Old Palace, Hampi

Gagan Mahal or the Old Palace is an ancient palace that belongs to the Vijayanagara Empire. The present palace is merely a shadow of the original form. However, it still is a charm and leads to attracting a number of visitors each year. These days it serves as an administrations' building of the local region. It was once quite an impressive setup developed in the brilliant Indo-Islamic architectural style. Till date it showcases the intricate carvings that speak of the fine skills of the artisans of that era. Location - Anegundi a small village close to Hampi, Karnataka. Timings - 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Kavala Caves, Dandeli

Nestled at around 25 kilometers from Dandeli, Kavala Caves are ancient limestone caves which have naturally led to the formation of Shiva Lingam. It can be easily entered by taking a flight of 375 steps. Tourists require crawling down into a forty feet deep narrow tunnel in order to get a glimpse of the Shiva Lingam that the caves feature. These caves are said to have existed since prehistoric times. Currently, the caves inhabit a number of bats and snakes. Loads of stalagmite formations can be spotted within the caves owing to the fact that they were formed ages back by the activity of volcanoes. The place is visited by a number of Lord Shiva devotees during the festival of Shiv Ratri. Location - Kavala Caves, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttara Kanadda, Karnataka. Timings - 6:00 am 6:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Bangalore

Nestled inside the massive Bangalore Fort, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace is one of the most popular historical monuments in Karnataka. An ideal example of the ancient Indo-Islamic architecture style of architecture, this beautiful palace was back in time used by Tipu Sultan as a summer retreat. It was often referred to as 'Rash e Jannat' and 'Abode of Happiness'. One of the most noteworthy creations, the palace flaunts magnificent arches, brilliant motifs, ornamental frescoes, and protruding balconies. Taking a stroll across the balconies can be a good start to exploring the palace. You would get a glimpse into Tipu Sultan's royal lifestyle as you explore the attraction. Location - Bangalore, Karnataka Timings - Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and  Sunday: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Entry Fee - INR 15 for Indian visitors and INR 200 for Foreigner visitors.

Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

Keshava temple is a magnificent monument dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is an elegant Trikuta Temple which houses Lord Krishna in three different forms including Janardhana, Venugopala, and Keshava. Unfortunately, Venugopala and Janardhana idols are damaged and the Keshava idol is missing from the temple. Yet, the temple is worthy of a visit merely to soak in the talent and artistry of the sculptors who ended up crafting this magnificent monument dedicated to the Divine. A stone slab inside the temple holds an old Kannada inscription that gives all the details related to it. Location - Somanathapura, Karnataka. Timings - 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Entry Fee - INR 5 for Indian Nationals, INR 100 for Foreigner Tourists, No charges for carrying in still camera and INR 25 for carrying in a video camera. No entry fee for kids up to 12 years of age.

Raja Seat, Coorg

Raja's Seat is a beautiful garden with artificial fountains and rich vegetation including various flowering plants. It was a venue for the kings of Kodagu to rejuvenate and relax along with their queens while adoring the sunset. The view of the sunset from this attraction is mesmerizing. It is also a remarkable picnic spot for the locals. It sits on an elevated surface which oversees the beautiful valleys that lie towards the west. There is a toy train featured here as well for the kids to enjoy. The mornings here are cold and misty but with the sun setting in the warmth also sets in. Location - Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka. Timings - 6:00 am to 7:00 pm Entry Fee - INR 5 per person

Best of Dandeli

Melukote is a sacred place in the Mandya district of Karnataka. Nestled on the rocky Yadugiri Hills, Melukote features the Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple. The town is home to various ponds and shrines. It also flaunts the Academy of Sanskrit Research which features a collection of over thousands of Sanskrit and Vedic manuscripts. One of the attractive temples is the temple of Yoganarasimha located on a hilltop. Back in the 12th century, saint Sri Ramanujacharya stayed at Melukote for a long time span of 12 years. Since then it has turned out to be a prominent Srivaishnava sect center. Location - Pandavapura taluk of Mandya district, Karnataka. Timings - From 7:30 am to 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm Entry Fee - NA

Archaeological Museum, Hampi

The Archaeological Museum of Hampi is a small yet worthwhile museum. Apart from featuring a museum's usual aspects, it also features a useful exhibit to a visitor: two scaled models of the topography of Hampi with all the various monuments located in there. One can get an idea about the locations and sites helping them to further plan their whereabouts. The larger model is a smaller copy of the whole of Hampi along with rivers and hills. The smaller one, on the other hand, is a much detailed model giving you a comprehensive view. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. It remains closed on Fridays and other national holidays. Entry Fee - INR 5 per head. Entry for children up to 15 years of age is free of cost.

Lakshmi Narasimha, Hampi

Found in the ruins of Hampi, the Lakshmi Narasimha statue is one of the essential historical monuments in Karnataka. It is Hampi's largest monolith statue standing erect on the Hemakuta Hill. This gigantic structure of the concrete stone is a major attraction amongst tourists. It was built in the year 1528 during the rule of Krishnadevaraya. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Narasimha owing to which it is also popularly known as the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple. It was mutilated and vandalized in 1565 by the Mughals after which it was unlike its original form. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Bijapur Fort

Popularly known as the Agra of the South, Bijapur is one of the most popular historical places in Karnataka. The Bijapur Fort majestically stands in the Bijapur City of Karnataka. It was built in 1566 during Yusuf Adil Shah's reign. It is spread in a large expanse, and is enclosed within a 50 feet large moat. The precinct of the fort features palaces, tombs, historical forts, gardens, etc. developed with an excellent style of architecture including Persian and Ottoman Turkish arts. You can also spot some ruins of the ancient temples. Location - Bijapur city in Bijapur District, Karnataka. Timings - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The fort is closed on all public holidays. Entry Fee - INR 15 for BIMSTEC members, Indian tourists, and SAARC members. INR 200 for tourists belonging to other countries

Monkey Temple, Hampi

Nestled on Anjaneya Hilltop the Monkey Temple also known as the Yantradharaka Hanuman Temple lies inside a cave. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the temple is 500 years old. Being one of the popular tourist destinations of the Anjeyanadri Hill, the temple is a sacred spot for Hindu devotees. Being located on a hilltop to reach the temple one has to climb 570 steps. The climb is steep but the views are beautiful. This attraction is an excellent combination of spirituality and nature. Location - Anjanadri Hill in Anegundi, 4 kilometers from Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 6:00 am to 9:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Dodda Alada Mara

Dodda Alada Mara is a well-kept and maintained secret of Karnataka featuring a four-hundred-year-old Banyan tree, the sprawling branches of which has spread on land over around 3 acres in Kethohalli village. It makes an excellent sightseeing historical places in Karnataka which is also the second largest tree in India. Almost a thousand hanging aerial roots hang out from the tree and spread over 250 meters of the circumference. It is protected and properly fenced with cemented seats where the visitors can be seated and enjoy this nature's magic. The most amusing fact about the attraction is that even with the main root being dead, the tree stands erect with numerous aerial roots. Location - Tavarekere Hobli, Bengaluru, Karnataka Timings - 9:30 am to 9:30 pm Entry Fee - NA

Best of Mysore

Madikeri Fort, Madikeri

The Madikeri Fort in Coorg is located at the center of Madikeri town. It boasts the information and insights of the bygone era and bears the testimony of Coorg's history as well as all that the town has witnessed. The fort's elevated structure offers a bird's eye view of the town, which is both breathtaking and calm. It was constructed by Muddu Raja, the then ruler who declared Madikeri as Coorg's new capital. The fort passed onto the hands of various other rulers until it was captured by Tipu Sultan. Consequently, there have been various constructional changes witnessed by the fort, the major ones made by the British. Location - Madikeri Fort, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka. Timings - 10:00 am to 5:30 pm Entry Fee - NA

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

The Virupaksha Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Hampi, one of the most popular historical places in Karnataka . Hampi, popularly known as the temple town is one of the UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. The Virupaksha Temple still stands pristine amongst all the ruins of the town that surround it. It never stopped to prosper and has been till date attracting a large number of travelers each year. The temple features a holy place for worshipping with three antichambers. The temple boasts large courtyards, few small-sized shrines, a pillared monastery, as well as a number of ways of entrances surrounding the temple. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - From 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Entry Fee - NA

Vijaya Vittala Temple, Hampi

Vijaya Vittala Temple is one of such ancient monuments in Karnataka which is renowned for its unmatched craftsmanship and brilliant architecture. Nestled on the Tungabhadra Riverbank, it is one of the largest creations in Hampi. This iconic temple boasts fascinating musical pillars and an outstanding stone chariot. The temple showcases the architectural excellence and immense creativity possessed by the artisans and sculptors of the Vijayanagara era. It has been crafted in the renowned Dravidian style of architecture. It is said that the temple's main shrine possessed one enclosed mandapa. In the year 1554 A.D. an open mandapa was further added to the entire setup. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Queen's Bath, Hampi

The Queen’s Bath is a colossal bath exemplifying the architectural brilliance prevalent back in the era of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is nestled close to the Royal Enclosure. The Queen's bath was developed for the women of the royal families by Achyuta Raya. It was used as a private bathing chamber for both Kings and Queens. It is a massive development with an ornate interior and a simple exterior. Developed in the excellent Indo-Islamic architectural style, this space is quite a unique creation as compared to any other public or private bathing creations. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Entry Fee - NA

Achyutaraya Temple, Hampi

Developed amongst the last few temples prior to the Vijayanagara Empire's decline, the Achyutaraya Temple is nestled between the beautiful Gandhamadana and Matanga hills. It depicts the magnificent Vijayanagara style of architecture in its improved and polished form. Unfortunately, the temple lies in ruins owing to the consequence of the attacks of the Bahamani kingdom. Additionally, it also has been severely affected by the force of nature over a long period of time. The location is quite a secluded one which makes it less crowded and more peaceful for you to visit and explore. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - From 5:30 am to 1:00 pm and from 5:30 am to 9:00 pm. Entry Fee – NA

Lotus Mahal

Hampi's trip is incomplete without visiting Lotus Mahal. Named after its lotus look-alike design, this palace flaunts fine architecture. It is a part of the Zenana Enclosure, a separated place for Vijayanagara Dynasty's royal women. It is also known as Chitragani Mahal or Kamal Mahal. It's unmistakable and remarkable design is the highlight of the place.It is one of those limited attractions in Hampi that have not been destroyed or damaged while the city was under attack. Location - Zenana enclosure, Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 6:30 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee - INR 10.0 per person for Indian visitors and INR 250.0 per person for foreign visitors. There is no entry fee for Children under 15 years of age.

Best of Hampi

Sasivekalu Ganesha, Hampi

One of the fine temples of Hampi is the Sasivekalu Ganesha temple. It features a massive statue of Lord Ganesha that has been carved using one single block of solid rock. The idol is around 8 feet tall. The statue and the temple are both fine specimens of renowned Indian sculptures. A massive mandapa stands on top of the statue with the help of pillars in order to conveniently cover the statue. A big sitemap has been installed here by the archaeological department that consists of the history of the statue and the whereabouts of the place. Location - Hampi, Karnataka Timings - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Mirjan Fort, Kumta

Spread over an expanse of 4.1 hectares, the Mirjan Fort is a royal reminder of our ancient history. Functional until the year 1785, the fort has witnessed a number of battles in the past. Later it was captured by the British and they used it for their armoury. It is one of the remarkable historical monuments in Karnataka featuring excellent architecture of the ancient era such as moats, canals, secret passageways and many others. The splendid fort is covered with lush greenery. Believed to be crafted in 1608-1640 A.D., the fort is now a protected monument by ASI (Archaeological Survey of India). It has also undergone recent renovations in order to improve quality. Location - 11 km from Kumta town in Karnataka Timings - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Devanahalli Fort

Well-known for its archaeological brilliance and historical significance, the renowned Devanahalli Fort is a living example of the extensive battles that were won and fought. Lately, in ruins the fort was oncethe residence and birthplace of Tipu Sultan, the great warrior. Spread in an expanse of over 20 acres, the developments is made up of mortar and stone. It was originally built in 1501 during the Saluva Dynasty's reign. It was later taken up by Hyder Ali followed by Tipu Sultan. The most attractive is the chief residence of Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali in the fort. Location - 22 miles north of Bangalore, at Devanahalli in the State of Karnataka. Timings - Morning from 7.00 am to 01.00 pm and Evening from 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm Entry Fee - NA

Tippu's Death Place

Visiting Tipu Sultan's death place is the place where the deceased Tipu Sultan was recovered. Colonel Wellesley had installed a stone tablet at the place where Tipu Sultan's body was found to demarcate the area. Water Gate, the site where the body was spotted inside the fort, still stands in a good condition. This is one of the most remarkable historical places in Karnataka. Location - Srirangapatnam, Karnataka. Timings - open 24 hours

Entry Fee - NA

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Heaven is found simply off the bank of terrain Karnataka – and it is called Gokarna Beach. One of the concealed pearls of India, the seashore is known for the wide extended white sand and peaceful waters. This is an ideal family get-away setting, which brags beachside picnics and water sports, is likewise home to comfortable shacks and radiant rental cottages.With so much to see and do, it is going to be really hard to lie idle on Gokarna beach. Hit the beach with buckets and shovels to build that perfect sand-castle of your dreams. Or, stroll the beach in the evening to soak in the majestic view of Arabian sea. Likewise, this is an extraordinary spot to spread out the family's seashore cover and love the ideal opportunity for the afternoon. Remember to swing by the exciting water sports accessible at Gokarna beach. With remote beach escapes, family-accommodating shores, and ideal for sand-château building, Gokarna beach guarantees fun frolic to every style of the guest. Peruse through the subtleties and activities about the Gokarna beach!

Om Beach of Gokarna carries a spiritual significance concerning its geographical appearance. The shape of this beach resembles the symbol ‘Om’ and hence, it is considered to be highly auspicious amongst the locals. You can witness the joining of two semi-crescent pieces of land here and this is why and how the beach derived its present identity.Known for its early morning and late evening sightseeing delights, Om Beach is a photographer’s paradise. It is simply amazing to observe the transitory phases of the skyline from the shores of Om Beach. Do not miss on your cameras as there are surely going to be plentiful moments for you to capture here. The sand of this beach is fine and delicate, and the rock creations are simply astounding!You may witness the presence of fishermen boats throughout the shores. Some of them might be busy with their deep-sea fishing activity. If you are communicative, you may approach the local fishing community to get some insights into their daily lives.Banana boat rides, bumper boat rides, dolphin spotting, jet skiing, fishing, trekking, and speed boating are some adventurous activities to try here. 

Kudle Beach in Gokarna is renowned for its unmatched beauty and mesmerizing charm. Flanked by tall coconut trees, this piece of land resembles a perfect ‘C'. Representing a vastly stretched piece of an isolated sea and land, Kudle Beach is the best option to try for those who seek solitude. With serene and quiet atmosphere, watching the sunrise and sunsets are the real delights for the observers. You can either sit on the shore or gaze at the never-ceasing tides – the choice is yours! Locals visit here for early morning or late evening walks and their yoga sessions. You can also join them. Stroll around for some time, and you are surely going to find some beautiful beach shacks and bamboo huts to plan your night camping. This is the perfect moment to shoot the beauty of glistening waters under the dim light of the moon. November to February is the best time to plan your visit to this incredible beach in Gokarna. This is when you will be able to mingle with other backpackers and travelers. With a multitude of activities to enjoy, Kudle Beach is an ideal destination for solo travelers, adventurous travelers, and newlywed couples. 

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Karnataka Tourism

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Surrounded by Dakshina Kannada in the west, Chikkamagaluru and Chitradurga in the north, Coorg towards the south and Tumkuru in the east, Hassan has an eventful and rich history. It is blessed with a pleasant climate and a great picturesque location. It is here where the plains (maidaans) begin to gently slope into the Western Ghats (malnad). Although not a proper hill station, Hassan is often referred to as “Poor Man’s Ooty”.

Hassan is also associated with the Hoysala Empire who had their capital at Belur and Dwarasamudra (present-day Halebeedu). The district is a veritable treasure-house of Hoysala architecture and sculpture, the best specimens of which are at Belur and Halebeedu. However, there are many more yet lesser-known architectural gems in various parts of the district. Many other touristic treasures also await you here like Hasanamba Temple and the Saptamatrikas, the drowning church at Shettyhalli, Mosale temples, a star-shaped fort at Manjarabad and Bisele Ghat.

For further information, visit the official district website click here!

When to go: All year-round. The Hoysala Festival is held in January

Tourist Offices

Office of the Deputy Director Department of Tourism Sumaka Yathri Nivas Building, AVK College Road, Near Old Bus Stop, Hassan Tel: 08172-268862 Cell: 09880988825 (DTC)

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Shravanabelagola

Heritage Sites

• Belur : Belur (also known earlier as Velapuri, Velur and Belapur in olden times) is situated on the banks of Yagachi River and was one of the capitals of the Hoysala Empire. Renowned for its magnificent Hoysala temple complex, the Chennakeshava Temple (also called Vijaya Narayana Temple), which was built by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Cholas in 1116 AD. The temple is believed to have been built by master craftsmen – Dasoja and Chavana, a father and son duo. It is proposed to be listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Halebeedu : Halebeedu (formerly known as Dwarasamudra) was the ancient capital of the Hoysalas just 17 km away from Belur. The Hoysala dynasty ruled over much of South India for close to 200 years and during this time they built spectacular temples; both Hindu as well as Jain. In the 14th century, the armies of Alauddin Khilji and Muhammad Tughlak defeated the Hoysalas and raided their empire. It is recorded that enormous wealth and riches were looted. The city never recovered and fell into neglect. In fact, Halebeedu means "old house/ old ruins". However, few temples survived this devastation like the ones in Halebeedu and today when you see them, you will be mesmerised by some the most stupendous expressions ever sculpted in stone. It is proposed to be listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Manjarabad Fort: The Manjarabad Fort is located in Sakaleshpur and is constructed atop a hill, about 988 m above the ground-level. This fort was built by Tipu Sultan in 1792 with the aim to ward off enemy infiltrations from Mangaluru and Madikeri side. The unique aspect of this fort is that it is built in a star shaped design. It has a form with 8 angular tips stretching in 8 directions with a plus shaped well at the centre. A short climb to the top offers a scenic view of the Western Ghats with its hillocks, dense forests and valleys.
• Maharajana Durga: 14 kms from Alur town, Maharajana Durga is a hillock with a large precipitous rock. Remains of an old fort, built in octagonal shape with a pond at the center can be seen in Maharajana Durga.
• Haranahalli: Home to an 11 th century Hoysala fort now in ruins and also features a Someshwara temple.

Adventure/Activities

• Bisle Ghat Trek: This is a sprawling 40-hectare reserved forest area in Sakleshpur. Surrounded by the Western Ghats, Bisle Ghat is near the border of Hassan, Kodagu and Dakshina Kannada districts. It has a scenic stretch of pristine reserve forest, mountain ranges, and trekking trails. The view from the Bisle Ghat Viewpoint is truly spectacular. There are several hillocks like Pushpagiri, Kumara Betta, Yennikallu which are ideal for trekking. Various species of flora and fauna are found here including Teak, Rosewood, Indian Copal, Tulip and Malabar Kino along with Elephants, Bison, Sambar, Wild Boar and other wild animals. The local people surrounding this region care for the rich forests here and help in its conservation. They usually help to douse out wildfires and also patrol the area for poaching and other illegal activities.
• Tea Estate Tour: While the region is known for coffee plantations, there’re a few anomalies as well. Kadamane tea estate is a rare tea estate in Hasana. The Kadamane Estate is a mini town on its own with a hospital, temple, church, a tea factory, staff quarters and main bungalow. Besides these you can see tea gardens as far as your eyes can reach.
• Coffee Plantation Visits: Particularly recommended during December where coffee is harvested and processed. Visits are often organized by homestay owners as well as private tour operators.
• Bird Watching: Bird Watching is a popular activity in multiple parts of Hasana district- particularly in forests of Sakaleshpura, in coffee plantations and in backwaters of Gorur dam.

Tourist Attractions

• Shettihalli Rosary Church: Build by the French missionaries in India during 1860s, this church is a fine example of Gothic-style architecture. The area around the church got deserted after the construction of the Gorur Dam; as during the monsoon the region got flooded and the church used to get submerged. The fact that this church remains submerged in water during monsoons makes it special as well as surreal at the same time. If you happen to visit the place during peak monsoon season, only one-third of the chapel could be visible. The view of the submerged church looks hauntingly beautiful during the monsoon. A new church has been built on higher ground nearby with edifices from this church.
• Gorur: Gorur is home to several Hoysala temples and one of the biggest reservoirs in Karnataka - Gorur Dam. At the entrance of Gorur, one can see the temple dedicated to Lord Paravasudeva. A temple dedicated to Lord Yoganarasimha is built on the banks of Hemavati River and very close to the dam. There are other lesser known temples as well in Gorur. The dam is constructed across Hemavati River, which is an important tributary of the Cauveri River. Built in 1979, the reservoir has been providing water for drinking and irrigation purposes. Hemavati Dam is very vast and covers a catchment area of 2,810 sq. km. This dam is 4,692 m long and 58.5 m high. Thus, the dam has become a popular picnic spot. A garden covered with a green lawn right next to the dam enhances the visual appeal of the place.
• Sri Rama Devara Katte, Holenarasipura: Rama devara betta, also known as Rama devara Katte in Hole Narasipura is an offbeat destination to visit while in Hasana district. This place is not to be confused with Ramadevara betta in Ramanagara district. Rama devara katte is a scenic spot where the Hemavathi river tips over a stone wall to form a mini waterfall. Water cascading over a 10 feet tall wall forms an eye catching sight.
• Jenukallu Gudda: 55 kms from Hasana, a popular hill with max height of 1389 meters
• Yagachi Dam: One of the major dams in the district, 38 kms from Hasana
• Ramanathapura: Scenic location on the banks of River Kaveri, 50 kms from Hasana. Also known as ‘Dakshina Kashi’ because of several fine temples, the oldest being Prasanna Rameshwara.
• Magajahalli Waterfalls: 20 foot high waterfall 21 kms from Sakaleshpur. Locally known as Abbi Gundi and offers a spectacular view of Pushpagiri mountain range.

Religious Places

• Hasanamba Temple: Inside the temple premises, there are three temples dedicated to Hasanamba, Darbar Ganapati and Siddeshwara. Although the Goddess has been known by the name Hasanamba, it is not a single Goddess but a trinity. The three of the Shakthi-Swaroopinis are settled together here. Another interesting feature here is the Hasanamba Temple is opened only once in a year (for few days) during Deepavali celebrations. A unique phenomenon here is that while closing the doors, the deity is adorned with flowers and a ghee lamp is lit. When the doors are reopened next year, the thick smoke engulfs the sanctum sanctorum with the lamp still burning. Even the flowers retain their freshness for the entire year.Another legend associated with this temple is of The Saptamatrikas namely Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrani and Chamundi (female counterparts/ shaktis of the male gods). On a search to find a place to settle down, they reached Hassan and were struck by its natural beauty and decided to make it their permanent home. In the three anthills inside the Hasanamba temple, Brahmi, Kaumari, and Maheshwari decided to stay. Indrani, Varahi and Vaishnavi chose the three wells in Devigere Honda (Devigere Kalyani), a lake in the immediate vicinity of Hasanamba Temple. Chamundi settled in Kenchamba’s Hosakote around 35 kms far from Hasanamba Temple.At the sanctum sanctorum, there is a small stone near the deity’s statue called Sose Kallu. It is believed to be of a woman who used to be tortured by her mother in law. During a squabble, she was hit on her forehead and got injured. Unable to bear the pain, she pleaded the Goddess to protect her. Moved by the daughter-in-law’s plea and loyalty, the Goddess, offered her a blessing to stay close to her. The daughter-in-law is said to still reside there in the form of this small stone. The stone is believed to keep moving towards the feet of the Goddess covering a distance of a paddy grain every year. It is said that the Kali Yuga will stop once the stone touches the feet of the Goddess.Another prominent attraction here is Kallappana Gudi. It is believed that long ago, four thieves tried to steal the ornaments of the temple. Goddess Hasanamba cursed and turned them into stones which can still be seen today.
• Shravanabelagola : Shravanabelagola is home to the 18 m high statue of Lord Gometeshwara; considered to be one of the world’s tallest free-standing monolithic statues. Constructed in 981 AD by Chamundaraya, a Ganga warrior, it is carved out of a single block of granite and looms atop the picturesque Vindhyagiri Hill. It is visible up to 30 km away. There are nearly 700 steps hewn in the rock-face which must be climbed to have a close-up view of this colossal magic. It is amazing to see so much grace and poise etched on a sculpture of such big scale. The statue truly reflects the idea of great strength devoid of rage and anger. This massive monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara will definitely leave you in awe. The surrounding enclosures has images of all the Jain Tirthankaras.
• Mosale: Mosale is a small village in Hassan which has 2 breathtaking Hoysala temples dedicated to Lord Nageshwara and Lord Chennakeshava. Built around 12th century, it is made of soapstone and are identical to each other, standing a few feet apart. Both temples have a garbhagriha, a sukanasi, a four-pillared navaranga and an entrance porch. The gable top of sukhanasa is crowned by the royal emblem of Sala (founder of the Hoysala dynasty) slaying the tiger.The Nageshwara Temple has a beautiful Nandi idol in front and a linga. The carvings include scenes of Kailash mountain with figures of various gods like Saraswati, Chamundeshwari, Natha, Sridevi, Lakshmidevi, Gauri, Maheshvari, Brahma, Sadasivamurti, Chitradhara and Bhumidevi. The Chennakeshava Temple has a beautiful idol of Lord Vishnu and the prabhavali is finely decorated with His various incarnations. Sculptures of various Gods include Garuda, Kesava, Sankarshana, Janardana, Venugopala, Aniruddha, Madhava in addition to Bhudevi, Sridevi and Chamaradharini sculptures.
• Shantigrama: Shantigrama is about 15 kms from Mosale Hosahalli and 14 kms from Hasana city. Shantigrama is famous for the temple of Sri Varada Yoga Bhoganarasimha Swamy. The temple was built in the 12th century during Chola kingdom and was renovated by Queen Shantaladevi.
• Mahalakshmi Temple, Doddagadavahalli: The temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi at Doddagadavahalli is credited with several firsts in Hoysala architecture. It is believed to be the first temple built in Hoysala style. This is also the only Hoysala temple where an idol of Goddess Mahalakshmi is enshrined and both Vaishnava and Shaiva ways of worship are practiced. This temple is also the only example of chatush-kuta or four-shrined order of temple built in Hoysala style. Though the temple is named after Goddess Mahalakshmi, there are shrines dedicated to Lord Mahavishnu, Lord Bhoothanatha and Goddess Mahakali.
• Kedareshwara Temple: Located nearby Hoysaleshwara Temple, this temple is a gem of Indian architecture. It is told that a tree took root in the tower and destroyed it. The outer walls, the tower and the doorway are magnificently carved. The basement of the temple, which stands on a high platform has a large number of friezes which depicts elephants, horses, lions, mythical animals, swans and stories from the Epics.
• Parshwanatha Swamy Temple, Basadihalli: It is believed that Halebeedu used to have many Jain Basadis but today only 3 remain. Situated nearby the Hoysaleshwara Temple, the Parshwanatha Swamy Temple is the most beautiful of the three basadis. There are rich carvings and 12 pillars that hold the dome of the temple. The pillars are well polished. A 14 ft figure of Lord Parshwanatha is made from black stone with a 7 headed serpent carved above the head.
• Veeranarayana Temple, Belavadi: Belavadi is home to the famous Veeranarayana Temple which is the biggest Thrikutachala (three shrined) temple built by the Hoysalas. Here, the idols of Veeranarayana, Venugopala and Yoga Narasimha are located in a single temple complex. The Venugopala idol is classified as one of the most graceful idols of all. It also houses the highest number of pillars in any Hoysala temples with around 152 of them in total; each unique from the other.
• Lakshminarasimha Temple, Javagal: One of the lesser known gems of Hoysala architecture, the Lakshminarasimha Temple, is a Vaishnava temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha ( the half man half lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu ), who is accompanied by his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. The other two shrines of this Thrikutachala temple are of Lord Vishnu and Lord Venugopal ( playing the flute ).  The outer wall here are quite fascinating and has stunning workmanship on it with carved sculptures. The Dashavatars (10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu) are exquisitely depicted here. The base has 6 rectangular moldings which has fine carvings of swans (birds), makara (aquatic creatures), epics and other stories (from Ramayana, Mahabharata and stories of Lord Krishna), leafy scrolls, horses and elephants.
• Malekal Tirupathi: Home to Venkataramanaswami temple on a hill accessible via 1700 steps.
• Kondaji: Noted for Chennakeshava temple where sculpture of main deity is four meters tall
• Holenarasipura: Home to popular Lakshmi Narasimha temple
• Basavapattana: Home to three temples- Shantishara, Lakshmikantha and Pranatharthihareshwara.

• Agrahara Belaguli: An ancient agrahara (settlement of scholarly Brahmins) and home to several ancient monuments.
• Arasikere: Known for Ishwara temple, Halavarakallu temple and a large ancient water tank
• Basavapatna: A village with a ruined fort, three temples and an agrahara.
• Banavara: Important trading center and also has multiple temples and a ruined fort.

Tour Location

Hasana is equidistant from mangaluru and bengaluru (both 180 kms away)..

Hoysala Village Resort

The Ashok, Hasana

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Hotel Southern Star

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KSTDC Hotel Mayura Shantala Halebeedu

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कर्नाटक की इन बेस्ट जगहों का भी करिए एक बार भ्रमण, आकर्षणों का पूरा गुलदस्ता है यहां मौजूद

कर्नाटक का ऐतिहासिक और सर्वोत्कृष्ट राज्य भारत के पर्यटन मानचित्र में एक प्रमुख स्थान रखता है। इस खूबसूरत राज्य में आपको मंत्रमुग्ध कर देने वाले नजारे, सांस्कृतिक विरासत, शांत समुद्र तट से लेकर शानदार भोजन तक सब कुछ मिलेगा।.

बेंगलुरु शहर - Bangalore in Hindi

बैंगलुरु, संस्कृति और लोगों से जुड़ा एक रंगीन शहर है, जिसे कर्नाटक के लोकप्रिय पर्यटन स्थलों में गिना जाता है। बैंगलोर को अपने खुशनुमा मौसम, आकर्षक पार्क और यहाँ स्थित खूबसूरत झीलों के लिए भी जाना जाता है। बैंगलोर के आसपास का हरा-भरा इलाका झरनों, वन्यजीव अभ्यारण्यों, और नदियों से घिरा हुआ है। हरे-भरे बगीचों की उपस्थिति के कारण, इसे 'भारत का उद्यान शहर' होने के लिए ख्याति प्राप्त हुई है। कब्बन पार्क, उल्सूर झील, इंदिरा गांधी म्यूजिकल फाउंटेन पार्क, बगले रॉक पार्क और लुंबिनी गार्डन यहां के प्रमुख आकर्षण हैं।

कई प्रकार के मीठे व्यंजनों से प्रसिद्ध विजयवाड़ा के पर्यटन स्थलों के बारे में भी एक बार जरूर जानिए

कर्नाटक के पास गोकर्ण - Gokarna near Karnataka in Hindi

गोकर्ण कर्नाटक के उत्तर कन्नड़ जिले में स्थित एक शहर है। प्राचीन मंदिरों से घिरे इस शहर में आप कई हजारों साल पुराने मंदिरों को देख सकते हैं। यह शहर कारवार से लगभग 59 किमी, बेंगलुरु से 483 किमी और मैंगलोर से 238 किमी दूर है। इसके अलावा, शहर के देहाती दृष्टिकोण ने बहुत सारे यात्रियों और विदेशियों का ध्यान आकर्षित किया है। यहां कई समुद्र तट, तीर्थ स्थल और झरने हैं जो पर्यटकों के आकर्षण का केंद्र हैं। यह शहर अघनाशिनी नदी के आसपास स्थित है, जिसे भक्तों के लिए पवित्र स्थल माना जाता है। समुद्र तटों के अलावा, महाबलेश्वर मंदिर है जो कई भक्तों और संतों को आकर्षित करता है।

आप भी जानें गोकर्ण की इन खूबसूरत जगहों के बारे, छुट्टियों का पूरा मजा मिलेगा सिर्फ यही

कर्नाटक के पास उडुपी - Udupi near karnataka in Hindi

मैंगलोर से लगभग 60 किमी दूर स्थित उडुपी कर्नाटक में एक अद्भुत वेकेशन स्पॉट है। इस शहर की एक अनोखी बात यह है कि यह एक तरफ पश्चिमी घाट और दूसरी तरफ अरब सागर से घिरा हुआ है। बैंगलोर और मैंगलोर के बाद, उडुपी कर्नाटक का सबसे महत्वपूर्ण शहर है। उडुपी अपनी प्राकृतिक सुंदरता, टेस्टी फूड, प्राचीन समुद्र तटों और घने जंगलों के लिए प्रसिद्ध है। जटिल नक्काशीदार मंदिरों में साल भर भक्तों और इतिहास प्रेमियों की भीड़ देखी जा सकती है। उडुपी में एक समृद्ध सांस्कृतिक विरासत है जिसका इतिहास 700 वर्ष से अधिक पुराना है। यहां घूमने के लिए अन्य लोकप्रिय स्थान सेंट मैरी द्वीप, ब्रह्मवर, बरकुर, मालपे बीच, कुडलू जलप्रपात और अनंतेश्वर मंदिर है।

दक्षिण भारत में घूमने वाले 8 प्रमुख पर्यटन स्थल, आप भी बना सकते हैं इन जगहों पर घूमने की प्लानिंग

कर्नाटक के पास मंगलुरु - Mangalore near Karnataka in Hindi

कर्नाटक राज्य की राजधानी बेंगलुरु से 250 किमी पश्चिम में स्थित, तटीय शहर मंगलुरु पूरे साल दक्षिण भारत में प्रमुख पर्यटक आकर्षणों में से एक है। हालांकि मंगलुरु समुद्र तटों, द्वीपों, मंदिरों और सूर्योदय और सूर्यास्त पॉइंट के लिए जाना जाता है, अगर आप कर्नाटक में तटीय शहर की तलाश में हैं, तो मंगलुरु आपके लिए बेस्ट ऑप्शन है। जब आप मंगलुरु घूमने के लिए आएं, तो यहां का स्वादिष्ट समुद्री भोजन भी जरूर खाएं। अनिरभवी बीच, पनाम्बुर बीच, सोमेश्वर मंदिर, सेंट एलॉयसियस चैपल, मंगलादेवी मंदिर, कादरी मंजूनाथ मंदिर यहां के प्रमुख आकर्षण हैं।

किसी जन्नत से कम नहीं हैं ओडिशा की ये अद्भुत जगह, दुनिया भर में होती है इनकी खूबसूरती की चर्चा

(फोटो साभार : Wikimedia commons)

कर्नाटक के पास मुरुदेश्वर - Murudeshwar near Karnataka in Hindi

मुरुदेश्वर भगवान शिव को समर्पित एक पवित्र शहर है, जो दक्षिणी राज्य कर्नाटक में अरब सागर के तट पर स्थित है। इस शहर में भगवान शिव की दुनिया की दूसरी सबसे ऊंची मूर्ति विराजमान है। मुरुदेश्वर तक बस, ट्रेन और हवाई मार्ग से आसानी से पहुँचा जा सकता है। निकटतम हवाई अड्डा मैंगलोर हवाई अड्डा है, जो शहर से 133 किमी दूर है। मुरुदेश्वर के समुद्र तट पर आप सनसेट का पूरा मजा ले सकते हैं। अरब सागर के समुद्र तट जैसे अलीगड्डा समुद्र तट और मुरुदेश्वर समुद्र तट पर्यटकों को बेहद आकर्षित करते हैं। भगवान शिव की राजसी प्रतिमा को भी जरूर देखें जो 123 फीट की ऊंचाई पर स्थित है।

पश्चिम बंगाल के कुछ ऐसे पर्यटन स्थल, जो करते आए हैं शुरू से लेकर अब तक पर्यटकों को आकर्षित

(फोटो साभार : TOI)

कर्नाटक के पास बंदीपुर - Bandipur near Karnataka in Hindi

बांदीपुर कर्नाटक में राष्ट्रीय रिजर्व है। इस रिजर्व में जंगली जानवरों और पक्षियों का संरक्षण किया जाता है। राजधानी बैंगलोर से कुछ किलोमीटर दूर, यह रिजर्व एक लोकप्रिय पर्यटन स्थलों में से एक है, जहां आप वीकेंड पर छुट्टी मनाने के लिए जा सकते हैं। यह स्थान शांत वातावरण से घिरा हुआ है और पर्यावरण के अनुकूल है। यहां आप हरी भरी हरियाली, हाथी और अन्य पक्षियों व जानवरों को देख सकते हैं। इस रिजर्व में पशु देखभाल केंद्र भी है जो उनके स्वास्थ्य और प्रजनन समस्याओं को देखता है। इस केंद्र में घायल पशुओं का इलाज किया जाता है। आप इस रिजर्व में बर्ड वाचिंग टूर पर जा सकते हैं और वन्यजीव सफारी ले सकते हैं।

ये हैं चेन्नई के बेस्ट रोड ट्रिप्स जो ले जाएंगे आपको इन ऑफ बीट डेस्टिनेशन तक

कर्नाटक के पास बीदर - Bidar near Karnataka in Hindi

बीदर एक ऐतिहासिक शहर है जिसमें कई वास्तुशिल्प संरचनाएं मौजूद हैं, जो चालुक्यों, मुहम्मद बिन तुगलक और कई अन्य शासकों के शासनकाल से निर्मित हैं। सबसे दिलचस्प वास्तुशिल्प कृतियों में से कुछ बीदर किला, रंगिन महल, बहमनी मकबरे, चौबारा, सोलह खंबा मस्जिद आदि हैं। बीदर के कुछ सबसे अविश्वसनीय आकर्षणों में मंदिर, किले, मस्जिद, मकबरे और कई प्राचीन खंडहर शामिल हैं जिन्होंने समय के साथ कई पर्यटकों को अपनी ओर आकर्षित किया है। नरसिम्हा झिरा गुफा मंदिर, बीदर किला, रंगिन महल, बहमनी मकबरे, सोलह खंबा मस्जिद, चौबारा, मोहम्मद गवन मदरसा आदि यहां के प्रमुख आकर्षण है।

कन्याकुमारी की इन बेस्ट जगहों पर भी एक बार घूमने जरूर जाएं, बीच से लेकर म्यूजियम तक यहां है सबके के लिए कुछ न कुछ

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