the tourist places in karnataka

12 Top Tourist Places in Karnataka

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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35 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Karnataka

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Fondly called the Scotland of India, Coorg is one of the top hill stations in South India and among the most popular attraction not to miss in your Karnataka holiday packages . Coorg (or Kodagu) is about 265 km from Bangalore city and takes about 6 hrs drive. Coorg is the largest producer of Coffee in India. Also, it is one of the places with the highest rainfall in India. Places like Raja's Seat, Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Omkareshwara Temple, Bylakuppe, Talacauvery and Dubare are the major attractions to be included in Coorg Holiday Packages . The famous Cauvery River is originated in the hills of Coorg at Talacauvery. Explore our Coorg Travel Guide for complete details on the hill station of Coorg. Being a part of the Western Ghats, Coorg is home to three wildlife sanctuaries - the Talacauvery, Pushpagiri, and Brahmagiri Sanctuaries, and one national park, the Nagarhole National Park. Coorg is also famous for trekking activities with peaks like Thandiyandamole, Brahmagiri, and Pushpagiri. Besides, Coorg can also be visited along with Ooty tour packages . If you are planning to visit Bandipur or Nagarhole along with Mysore, staying at Jungle Lodges & Resorts (JLR) properties is the best way to explore.

Mysore, the erstwhile capital of the Mysore Maharajas, is one of the popular destinations in Karnataka and among the must-visit places as part of 2 day trip near Bangalore . It is about 139 km from Bangalore. With its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, Mysore is one of the top heritage sites in India . Often called the City of Palaces, Mysore still retains its old-world charm with its palaces, heritage buildings, traditions, and temples. Mysore Palace is among the must include places in your Mysore tour packages . Apart from the Mysore Palace , Chamundi Hill Temple, Mysore Zoo, Srirangapatna, and Brindavan Gardens are the most famous places to visit in Mysore. The royal city of Mysore Dussehra is known for its grand Dussehra celebrations. The month-long Dussehra celebrations, with its colorful processions, fireworks, and the beautifully lighted palace, give an enchanting look to the city. Mysore can also be visited as part of Coorg tour packages . If you are planning to visit Bandipur or Nagarhole along with Mysore, staying at Jungle Lodges & Resorts (JLR) properties is best way to explore ...

3. Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur or Chikkamagaluru is a scenic hill town situated at the foothills of Mulliyangiri range with an altitude of 3,400 feet. It is one of the best hill stations in Karnataka and among the most famous tourist places near Bangalore . Chikmagalur is famous for its serene environment, lush green forests and tall mountains. Baba Budangiri, Hirekolale Lake, Mulliyangiri, Ayyanakere Lake, Manikyadhara Falls, Horanadu and Kemmanagundi are among the must include places in Chikmagalur Holiday Packages . Chikkamagaluru is also famous for coffee and is known as the Coffee Land of Karnataka. It is the place where coffee was cultivated for the first time in India. The climate of Chikmagalur is pleasant all year round but the best time to visit the place is from the months of September till March. Explore our Chikmagalur Travel Guide for complete details on the mighty hill station. Chikmagalur can also be visited along with Coorg packages .

Hampi is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the banks of Tungabhadra River in northern Karnataka. Situated about 340 km from Bangalore & 377 km from Hyderabad, Hampi is one of the best heritage sites in India and among the must include places in your Karnataka tour packages . Hampi is an extremely significant place in terms of history and architecture as it stands within the ruins of the city of Vijayanagara, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is an open-museum of architecture, religion, and history dotted with innumerable gems that were hewed from stones. Virupaksha Temple , Vittala Temple, and Hampi Bazaar are among the must include places in your Hampi tour packages . The ruins of Vijayanagara Empire in and around the village of Hampi are spread over an area of more than 26 Sq.km. The famous Vittala Temple is located 2 km east of the Hampi Bazaar. Explore our Hampi Travel Guide for complete details on the stunning heritage city. Hampi can also be visited along with Badami tour packages .

Udupi is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Karnataka, and among the top places to visit near Mangalore . Located between the verdant mountains of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Udupi is the land of breathtaking beauty. It is about 59 km from Mangalore, and 403 km from the city of Bangalore. Udupi is famous for Sri Krishna Temple which attracts pilgrims from all over India. This temple has a fascinating idol of Lord Krishna that is richly adorned with jewels. Apart from the temple, Malpe Beach, Kaup Beach & St Mary's Island are the top places to visit as part of Udupi holiday packages . Udupi can also be visited along with Murudeshwar packages . It is also the source of renowned Udupi cuisine, which is served all over India in the efficiently-run Udupi restaurants, famous for dosas, idlis and other snacks. The tradition of this cuisine started in the great kitchens of the Krishna Temple which serve meals in the form of prasad to the thousands of devotees who come to pray at the holy shrine. Explore our Udupi Travel Guide for complete details on the holy shrine.

6. Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar is one of the most famous places to visit in Karnataka and among the popular places of pilgrimage in Karnataka . It is about 162 km from Mangalore & 497 km from Bangalore. Murudeshwar is the abode of Lord Shiva. The temple town is famous for the world's second tallest Shiva statue (123 ft) & tallest temple tower (249 feet). The sea on three sides surrounds the Murudeshwar Temple towering on the small hill called Kanduka Giri. This is a great place to watch the sunset. Murdeshwar Beach, Kollur Temple are popular sites to visit as part of Murudeshwar holiday packages . Gokarna, Karwar, Kollur, Udupi, Jog Falls, Sirsi & Sringeri are the nearby attractions. Maha Shivaratri during February is the important festival celebrated here with much devotion and religious rituals. The best time to visit Murudeshwar is from November to February. Murudeshwar can also be visited along with Gokarna packages . Explore our Murudeshwar Travel Guide for complete details on the beautiful and sacred placce.

Gokarna is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in Karnataka , and among the top places to visit as part of Karnataka tour packages . It is about 514 km from Bangalore. Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple which houses the Atmalinga is one of the must-visit places as part of Gokarna holiday packages . Gokarna is considered to be the Mukti Stala, where Hindus perform funeral rites. Gokarna is also home to some of the best beaches in Karnataka including Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Gokarna Beach. Among the beaches in Gokarna, the Om Beach is extremely popular among surfers. The beach gets its name due to the natural formation of the holy Om symbol. Explore our Gokarna Travel Guide for complete details on Gokarna. Gokarna can also be visited along with Dandeli tour packages .

8. Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is one of the well preserved wildlife parks in Karnataka , and among the top places for a wildlife tour in India. Located between Mysore & Ooty, it is about 80 km from Mysore and 215 km from Bangalore. Spread across 874 sq.km, Bandipur is a part of the famous Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve along with Nagarhole National Park, Mudumalai National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. It is home to around 70 tigers and over 3000 Asian elephants, as well as other animals like leopards, dhole, gaur, sloth bears, and a variety of birdlife. Jeep Safaris and Mini Bus Safaris are arranged by the forest department. The entry point & interpretation center of the park is located in Bandipur village on Gundlupet - Ooty Road. The best time to visit Bandipur is from June to October. Staying at Bandipur Safari Lodge is the best way to explore the park as their package includes Jeep Safari into the park with experienced guides. Bandipur can also be visited along with Ooty tour packages as it lies on Bangalore - Ooty road.

9. Mangalore

Located at the confluence of Nethravathi and Gurupura Rivers, the port city of Mangalore is one of the popular tourist places in Karnataka . It is about 251 km from Mysore, and 345 km from Bangalore. It is one of the stunning places to visit near Bangalore . Lying between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Mangalore is a scenic place dotted with coconut palms, hills, and streams, and is known for its temples and beaches. The Mangaladevi temple, Kadri Manjunatha temple, St Aloysius Chapel, the Rosario Cathedral, the Jama Masjid, Mukka Beach, Someshwara Beach, Tannirbavi Beach, and Panambur beach are the must include places in Mangalore tour packages . Mangalore is the starting point of many Udupi tour packages ., Dharmasthala, and Gokarna Tour Packages.

10. Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India . Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, the park is situated about 218 km from Bangalore, and is among the must include places in Karnataka Tour Packages . Spread across Mysore and Kodagu districts of Karnataka, Nagarhole got National Park status in 1988 and declared as 37th Project Tiger Reserve in 1999. The Western Ghats Nilgiri sub-cluster of 6,000 Sq. km, including all of Nagarhole National Park, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Site status. It is one of the top attractions you must include in Coorg tour packages . It is situated to the north-west of Bandipur National Park . The important animals in Nagarhole are tiger, leopard, wild dog, sloth bear, the hyena, spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, wild boar and elephant. Bus & Jeep Safari available in the park run by forest dept from Kutta & Dhammanakatte (kabini side). Staying at Kabini River Lodge is the best way to explore the park as their package includes Jeep Safari with experienced guides.

11. Dandeli

Situated on the banks of the River Kali, the picturesque town of Dandeli is one of the top Karnataka tourist places . It is located about 130 km from Goa, and 462 km from Bangalore. Dandeli is quite famous for its gorgeous natural backdrop, wildlife, and adventure activities, that can be experienced as part of Dandeli tour packages . Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka . Dandeli is one of the top white Water Rafting destinations in India. Kayaking, water rafting, and canoeing trips on the Kali River are some of the things one can indulge in Dandeli. Sathodi Falls, Syntheri Rocks, and Kavala Caves are the other important places to visit in Dandeli . Explore our Dandeli Travel Guide for complete details on the stunning scenic place. Dandeli can also be visited along with Goa tour packages and Gokarna Packages.

Badami, also called Vatapi, is one of the must include places in Karnataka Tour Packages . It is located at a distance of 36 km from Bagalkot, 104 km from Hubli & 457 km from Bangalore. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Karnataka . Cave temples, fortresses, fine carvings, wonderful architecture, and breathtaking views are the must include places in Badami Tour Packages . Badami is located in a valley at the foot of a red sandstone rock formation that surrounds Agastya Lake. Boothnath Temple, Banashankari Temple, Badami Fort, Cave Temple 1-3, Mallikarjuna Temples, and Mahakuta Temples are the prominent places to visit in Badami . Badami is famous for several early inscriptions dating back to the 6th century. Badami can also be visited along with Aihole & Pattadakal Tour Packages .

13. Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna or Srirangapattana is a historical town in the Mandya district of Karnataka. About 18 km from Mysore, and 124 km from Bangalore, it is among the popular tourist places in Karnataka owing to its cultural, religious, and historic importance. Srirangapatna is one of the top places to visit near Bangalore . The entire town is surrounded by the river Kaveri to form a river island. Srirangapatna is among the must include place in your Mysore tour packages . Ranganathaswamy Temple, Daria Daulat (Palace of Tipu Sultan) and Gumbaz (Mausoleum of Tipu Sultan) & Sangama are the must include places in Srirangapatna Tour Packages . Laksha Deepotsava, Ratha Sapthami, and Brahmotsavam are the famous festivals celebrated with much fanfare at Srirangapatna.

14. Sringeri

Sringeri is a renowned pilgrimage center located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. About 88 km from Chikmagalur, and 318 km from Bangalore, it is one of the important places of pilgrimage in South India , and among the must include places in Karnataka tour packages . Sringeri is well known for Sharada Peetham, among the must-visit places as part of the Sringeri holiday packages . Sringeri Sharada Peetham is the first and foremost of the 4 Peethams established by the renowned 8th-century saint Sri Adi Shankaracharya.Vidyashankara Temple, Chennakeshava Temple, Sharadamba Temple, and Sri Parswanath Jain Tirthankara Temple are the other prominent Sringeri places to visit . Adi Shankara Temple, Kere Anjaneya temple, Malayala Brahma Temple, Mallikarjuna Temple, Torana Ganapati Temple, Kigga, Sirimane Falls, Agumbe, Kudremukh are other attractions here. Sringeri can be visited along with Udupi Tour Packages .

15. Pattadakal

Situated on the banks of Malaprabha River, Pattadakal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Badami & Aihole known as Chalukyan Group of Monuments. Pattadakal is among the popular Tourist places in Karnataka . It is about 439 km from the city of Bangalore. Pattadakal is the place where the coronation of Chalukyan kings took place. Along with Aihole, Pattadakal is considered the cradle for South Indian Temple architecture. The main complex has about 10 temples date back to 6th - 9th centuries, that are the must-visit places as part of Pattadakal tour packages . The temples are built in different architectural styles representing Dravidian, Nagara, Phamsana, and Gajaprastha models. Virupaksha Temple, Sangameshwara Temple, Mallikarjuna Temple , Kashivisvanatha Temple & Galganatha Temple are the most prominent places to visit in Pattadakal . Pattadakal can also be visited along with Aihole & Badami Tour Packages .

Belur is one of the best heritage sites in Karnataka . It was the early capital of the powerful Hoysala Empire on the banks of River Yagachi. About 25 km from Chikmagalur, and 217 km from Bangalore, it is among the most visited places as part of Chikmagalur tour packages . Belur is renowned for the grand Hoysala Temple built by king Vishnuvardhana in 1117 CE. Dedicated to Lord Chennakesava, it is the best of three Hoysala temples nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Sites (other two being the temples at Halebid & Somnathpur). The Hoysala temples are known for minute & intricate carvings and sculptures with metal-like polishing. Sri Chennakesava Temple is one of the must-visit places as part of Belur holiday packages . Standing on a star-shaped platform, Sri Chennakesava Temple is known for its intricate sculptures and friezes. There are about 48 pillars of various sizes, shapes, and designs, bearing testimony to remarkable artistry. The main highlight of the temple is Darpana Sundari or The lady with the mirror. Yagachi Dam, Halebidu, and Narasimha Pillar are the other tourist places in Belur .

17. Somnathpur

At a distance of 137 km from Bangalore, 35 km from Mysore & 50 km from Shivanasamudra Falls , Somnathpur is well known for the breathtaking Prasanna Chennakesava Temple, one of the three famous & finest representations of Hoysala architecture (other two being temples at Belur & Halebid). This is one of the three Hoysala temples nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Site status. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Bangalore & Mysore and one of the wonderful weekend getaways from both the cities. The Hoysala temples are known for minute & intricate carvings and sculptures with metal like polishing. It is one of the well known Karnataka tourist places and also one of the best places to experince Mysore Tourism . Located on the banks of Cauvery River, Chennakesava Temple was built in 1268 by Somnatha, a general of King Narasimha III. The temple stands on a raised platform like other Hoysala temples. The temple comprises three shrines and three wonderfully carved peaks with a common Mandapa. The three sanctums once housed beautifully carved idols of Keshava, Janardhana and Venugopala. Today, the idol of Lord Kesava is missing but the other two are still worshipped by the visitors. The Somnathpur temple is famous for its elaborate and ...

18. Jog Falls

Formed over Sharavathi River, Jog falls is the one of the highest plunge waterfalls in Karnataka and among the top places to visit near Hubli . It is situated about 152 km from Hubli, and 400 km from Bangalore. Locally known as Gerusoppe Falls, Jog Falls is one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore to visit as part of Karnataka tour packages . The Sharavathi River flowing over a very rocky bed about 250 yards wide, 253 m deep and the water comes down in four distinct falls known as Raja, Rani, Rover, and Rocket. The four cascades merge to form the huge waterfall. The Raja Fall pours in one unbroken column sheer to the depth of 830 ft. Halfway down it is encountered by the Rover, another fall, which rushes violently downwards to meet the Raja. A third falls, the Rocket, shoots downwards in a series of jets; while the fourth, the Rani, is a quiet fall over the mountainside. A narrow path from viewpoint leads to the bottom of the falls. The view is amazing from the bottom and the showering sizzles of the falls at the bottom are really worth the effort. Unchalli Falls, Bennehole Falls, Yana and Banavasi are among the must include places in Jog Falls tour packages .

19. Halebidu

Halebidu is one of the best heritage sites in Karnataka . About 34 km from Chikmagalur, and 211 km from Bangalore, it is among the most visited places as part of Chikmagalur tour packages . Halebidu is famous for the beautiful Hoysala Temples of Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara built in 1121 AD. These are the most important places to visit as part of Halebidu tour packages . Hoysaleswara Temple is one of the three Hoysala temples nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the other two being the Belur temple & Somnathpur temple. The Hoysala temples are known for minute & intricate carvings and sculptures with metal-like polishing. Halebidu is one of best places to visit near Bangalore . Another popular place to visit in Halebidu is the Kedareswara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built by King Ballala II, it was decorated with sculptures and panels in typical Hoysala style.

20. Kemmanagundi

Kemmanagundi is one of the popular hill stations in Karnataka . About 62 km from Chikmagalur, and 246 km from Bangalore, it is among the best places to visit near Bangalore . Breathtaking views of the valleys amidst mountain streams and lush vegetation are the main attractions of Kemmanagundi tour packages . Situated at an altitude of 1434 m on the Baba Budan range, the region is covered with plantations of coffee and tea along with thick bamboo groves forming a dense forest cover. Raj Bhavan, Z point, Rock garden, Hebbe Falls, Kalhattagiri Falls, Baba Budan Hill, Bhadra Tiger Reserve, Shanti Falls, and Hebbe Falls are the most poular place to visit in Kemmanagundi . Kemmanagundi is also popularly known by the name of KR Hills, named after the Mysore King Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. Kemmanagundi is one of the top attractions you must include in Chikmagalur packages .

Situated on the banks of the Malaprabha River, Aihole is one of the popular places to visit in Karnataka for history buffs, & architecture enthusiasts. It is situated at a distance of 13 km from Pattadakal, 34 km from Badami, and 443 km from Bangalore. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aihole, along with Pattadakal, is considered as the cradle for South Indian Temple architecture. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Karnataka . There are more than 125 temples in Aihole constructed between the 5th and 8th centuries during Badami Chalukya's rule, which are the must include places in Aihole Tour Packages . Durga Temple, Ladkhan Temple, Ravana Pahadi, and Archeology Museum are the top places to visit in Aihole . Aihole can also be visited along with Pattadakal & Badami Tour Packages .

22. Bangalore

Nicknamed as the Garden City of India, Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, is the 5th largest city in India, and among the top places to visit in Karnataka . It is one of the fastest growing industrial and commercial centers in India. It is often referred as Silicon Valley of India due to large number of software companies established in the city. Bangalore is one of the ideal places for those planning to visit south India with many attractions in the form of heritage palaces, gardens, museums, temples, etc. Lalbagh Garden, Cubbon Park, Tipu Sultan's Palace, Bangalore Palace , Bannerghatta National Park, and Vishveswaraiah Museum, are the some of the must include places in Bangalore tour packages . Explore our Bangalore Travel Guide for complete details on the capital city of Karnataka. Bangalore is the perfect stopover point, because this city is the gateway to a plethora of South Indian tourist destinations - you can choose from ancient temples, jungles, historic sites to even scenic countrysides for a quick weekend getaways. Coorg, Mysore , Chikmagalur, Wayanad and Ooty are the top weekend getaways from Bangalore .

23. Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur is a quaint hill station in the Hassan district of Karnataka. Situated at an altitude of 3061 feet, Sakleshpur is one of the least explored hill stations in Karnataka and among the must include tourist attractions in Karnataka tour packages . It is about 151 km from Mangalore and 220 km from Bangalore. Lies in the Malnad region, this beautiful hill station is very popular for its fascinating mountains, scenic beauty, and pleasant weather as well, which are the must-experience things to do as part of Sakleshpur holiday packages . Manjarabad Fort, Sakleshwara Temple, Agni Gudda Hill, Magajahalli Waterfalls, Betta Byraveshwara Temple, Hemavathi Dam, and Pandavar Gudda are some of the popular places to visit in tourist places in Sakleshpur . Besides, this lesser-known hill station is famous for trekking activities in Bisle Reserve Forest Trail and Kumara Parvatha trail, in which one can explore the rich biodiversity of the place. Sakleshpura is the gateway to the Western Ghats from Bengaluru & Hassan side. Sakleshpur is among the major producers of coffee and cardamom output in India.

24. Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola is one of the most popular Jain places of pilgrimage in Karnataka . About 83 km from Mysore, and 140 km from Bangalore, it is one of the popular places to visit near Bangalore . Shravanabelagola is famous for the Bahubali Statue, among the must include places in Shravanabelagola tour packages . With a height of 58 feet carved out of a single block of granite, the statue is supposed to be the tallest monolithic stone statue in the world. Gomateswara temple, Odegal Basadi, Tyagada Kamba, Siddhara Basadi, Chennanna Basadi, Akhanda Bagilu, Chamundaraya Basadi, Chandragupta Basadi, Chandraprabha Basadi, Kattale Basadi, and Parshwanatha Basadi are important places to visit in Shravanabelagola . Once in 12 years, Shravanabelagola celebrates the Mahamastakabhisheka festival which attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from all over India. Shravanabelagola can also be visited along with Mysore tour packages .

25. Shivanasamudra Falls

Shivanasamudra is one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore and also among popular one day trip from Bangalore . It is about 130 km from Bangalore. Shivanasamudra is a segmented waterfall with several parallel stream formed adjacent to each other. Situated on River Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is among the popular Tourist places in Karnataka . The island of Shivanasamudra divides Kaveri River into two parts that form two waterfalls, one is Gaganachukki and the other is Bharachukki. Gaganachukki includes a huge horsetail shaped waterfall dropping from a height of 90 m and two large parallel streams that cascade down through a rocky bed from a height of over 320 feet. Asia's first hydroelectric power station was set up in the downstream of the falls in the year 1905. Barachukki is a cascading fall with a height of 70 m forming several streams through the wide rocky formations establishing superb natural beauty. This place offers breathtaking sight in the peak monsoons. Shivanasamudra is among the must include place in your Mysore tour packages . An interesting way to watch the beauty of the waterfall is to take a coracle ride to the mouth of the magnificent waterfall.

26. Irupu Falls

Iruppu Falls is one of the best Karnataka waterfalls , and among the must include places in Coorg tour packages . It is about 75 km from Madikeri,110 km from Mysore, and 248 km from Bangalore. Also known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls locally, Irupu Falls or Iruppu Falls is one of the popular 2 day trip from Bangalore . It is formed by Lakshmana Tirtha, a stream that originated in Brahmagiri Peaks and joins the Kaveri River. Dropping from a height of 170 feet through several stages, the falls are situated amidst the thick forest of Western Ghats. The roaring waters of Irupu Falls and the picturesque surroundings make it a favorite picnic spot. It is an unforgettable experience to stand at bottom of the cascades and play in the sizzling waters of the falls. There is a temple called Rameshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on the banks of the Lakshmana Tirtha River, en route to the falls. It can also be visited along with Wayanad tour packages .

Sirsi is a small hill station located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. About 99 km from Shimoga, 102 km from Hubli, 395 km from Bangalore, it is the main commercial center and a business hub in the Malnadu region, and among the top tourist places in Karnataka . Situated at an altitude of 2000 feet, Sirsi is surrounded by thick forests and towering hills, among the must-experience things to do as part of Sirsi tour packages . This pristine hill station is also known as 'Gateway of Malenadu' or 'Gateway of Western Ghats'. Unchalli Falls, Vibhuthi Falls, Marikamba Temple, Magod Falls, Benne Hole Falls, Shivaganga Falls, Muregar Falls, Burude Falls, Mattighatta Falls, Manjuguni, Sahashralinga, Sodhe / Sonda, Devimane Ghat, Banavasi, and Gudavi Bird Sanctuary are some of the top place to visit in Sirsi . Sri Marikamba Jatra is the main festival held every alternate year in March at Sirsi. The fair attracts nearly 5 lakh devotees, tourists, and pilgrims from throughout Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra. It is said to be the most famous and biggest fair in the state of Karnataka.

Lies at the mouth of the Kali River near Goa - Karnataka Border, Karwar is one of the top beach destinations in Karnataka, and among the must-visit places as part of Karnataka tour packages . It is about108 km from Panjim, and 517 km from Bangalore. Karwar's tranquil ambiance had inspired the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore and he has dedicated a chapter of his biography to this town. The town has lovely beaches, beautiful temples and Forts attracting a large number of tourists. Karwar Beach, Devbagh Beach, Sadashivgad, Dargah of Peer Shan Shamsuddin Kharobat, Durga Temple, Kaju Bagh Beach, Kurumgad Island, Naganatha Temple, Narasimha Temple, Koodi Bagh Beach, and Venkataramana Temple are the popular places to visit in Karwar . Karwar can be visited along with Goa tour packages . The Karavali Utsav is the biggest cultural event held at the Rabindranath Tagore beach in Karwar for four days.

Nestled in the thickly forested Malnadu region of the Western Ghats, Agumbe is one of the most mesmerizing offbeat tourist places in Karnataka , and among the must-visit places as part of Karnataka tour packages . It is located about 112 km from Mangalore and 342 km from Bangalore. Situated at an altitude of over 2100 feet, the scenic village of Agumbe lies in the Western Ghats belt with some of the last remaining lowland rainforests. The place is nicknamed 'The Cherrapunji of the South' as it receives the heaviest rainfall in the southern part which makes it a perfect home to some of the scenic waterfalls, dense forests, and rivers. Prominent Agumbe tourist places are Sri Gopala Krishna temple, Kunchikal Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls, Jogi Gundi Falls, Koodlu Theertha Falls, Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, Narsimha Parvatha trek, Kudremukh National Park, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. It can be visited as part of Mangalore holiday packages . Agumbe is home to the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, the only rainforest research station in India, and was established as a sanctuary for the King Cobra. It is also the place where RK Narayan has filmed his novel Malgudi Days.

At a distance of 116 km from Gulbarga, 639 km Bangalore and 140 km from Hyderabad, Bidar is a town and district headquarters located in the north-eastern part of Karnataka. Bidar is one of the most popular tourist places to visit near Hyderabad and one of the famous Hyderabad weekend getaways from a two day trip. It is lies at an altitude of 2,200 feet on Deccan plateau overlooking the Manjira river valley. Bidar is among the well known Karnataka tourist places . It is bounded by Nizamabad and Medak districts of Telangana on the eastern side, Latur and Osmanabad districts of Maharashtra on the western side, Nanded district of Maharashtra on the northern side and Gulbarga district on southern side. Bidar has great historical importance and it is one of the important heritage sites in Karnataka. The history of Bidar goes back to 3rd century BC, and it was ruled by Mauryas, Satavahanas, Kadambas and Chalukyas of Badami, Rashtrakutas and later Kalyani Chalukyas. For a short period after Kalyani Chalukyas Bidar was under the Yadavas of Devgiri and Kakatiyas of Warangal . Delhi rulers first headed by Allauddin Khilji and later ...

31. Kollur Mookambika Temple

At a distance of 60 km from Murudeshwar, 73 km from Udupi, 90 km from Jog Falls and 133 km from Mangalore, Sri Mookambika Devi Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Kollur in Udupi district of Karnataka. The temple is located in the valley of Kodachadri Mountain Peak on the banks of Souparnika River. Kollur is regarded as one of the Seven Mukti Stalas created by Parashurama and the other places are Udupi, Subrahmanya, Kumbasi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayana and Gokarna . It is a famous site of pilgrimage in Karnataka and one of the top places to visit near Murudeshwar . This temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvathi. According to Legend, Goddess Parvathi killed a demon called Kamsasuran who lived here and attempted to become powerful through his penance. Devi along with the help of Veerabadra, Ganesha and Shiva initially made him dumb and he came to be called Mookasuran (Mooka means dumb). Later the goddess killed him with her Chakra and called as Mookambika thereafter. The place where Devi killed Mookasura is known as Marana Katte. The Panchaloha (five metals) image of the Goddess Mookambika is stated to have been consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya during his visit to this place. Devi Mookambika has three eyes and four arms, with chakra and conch in her hands sitting in the padmahasana ...

32. Kukke Subrahmanya Temple

At a distance of 100 km from Mangalore, Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located at Kukke near Mangalore. It is one of the most famous temples in Karnataka and among the must-visit places as part of Mangalore holiday packages . Dedicated to Lord Murugan, Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is one of the important temples of Lord Subrahmanya (Lord Murugan), and among the famous pilgrimage places to visit near Mangalore . This temple is famous for Sarpa Dosha. Lord Subrahmanya is worshipped as the protector of all serpents. The epics mention that the divine serpent Vasuki and other serpents found refugee under Lord Subrahmanya when attacked by Garuda. Pilgrims visiting the temple have to cross the Kumaradhara River and take a holy dip in it before entering the temple. According to Mythology, Lord Kumaraswamy killed the demon rulers Taraka, Shoorapadmasura in a war; and washed his Shakti Ayudha in this river (hence the river is named Kumaradhara). This is also one of the famous places of trekking in Karnataka . Sarpa Samskara/Sarpa Dosha is one of the poojas performed at this temple by devotees to get rid of the sarpa dosha. Kukke Subramanya can be reached by road from Mangalore and Bangalore. Timings: 6:30 AM - 1:30 PM & 3:30 PM - 8 PM

33. Manjunatha Temple - Dharmasthala

At a distance of 70 km from Mangalore, Dharmasthala is a sacred town in Karnataka. Situated on the banks of the Nethravathi River, it is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in Karnataka , and among the popular places to visit as part of Mangalore Packages . The main attraction of Dharmasthala is the famous Manjunatha Temple. This place is also known as Sri Kshetra, and is one of the top places to visit near Mangalore . Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Manjunatha or Lokeshwara, this temple dates back to 16th Century. It is said that the Shiva Linga worshipped at this temple was procured from Kadri Temple in Mangalore. This place was known as Kuduma and was later renamed Dharmasthala in the 16th century by Vadiraja Swami of Udupi . The shrines of four Dharma Daivas (Kalarahu, Kalarkaayi, Kanyakumari, and Kumaraswamy) are built well before Manjunatha Temple in Dharmasthala. Lakshadeepotsava celebrated in Kartheekamasa (Nov/Dec) is the main attraction of the temple. This temple is involved in several social activities, especially, educational institutes for the poor. Timings: 6:30 AM - 2:30 PM & 5 PM - 8:30 PM

34. Melukote / Melkote

At a distance of 50 km from Mysore and 133 km from Bangalore, Melkote / Melukote is a historical town located in Pandavapura taluk of Mandya district, Karnataka. Also known as Thirunarayanapuram, it is one of the popular pilgrimage places in Karnataka and also one of the best places to visit as part of Mysore Tour. Melkote can also be included in your Mysore holiday packages . The town is built on rocky hills known as Yadavagiri or Yadugiri overlooking the Cauvery valley. The town derives its name from two words, Melu means top and Kote means fort. According to the history, the great Vaishnava saint Sri Ramanujacharya lived here for about 14 years in 12th century AD and thus it became a prominent center of the Srivaishnava sect of Brahmins. There are two popular temples reside in this town, one is Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple and the other one is Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple. These temples existed even before Sri Ramanujacharya came to this place. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu known as Thirunarayana or Cheluvaraya installed by Lord Krishna. The utsavamurthy or procession idol of the deity is referred as Cheluvapille Raya whose original name appears to have been Ramapriya. This utsavamurthy was lost when the Moghuls invaded the place and it was recovered by Ramanujacharya from Bibi Nachiyaar the daughter of Mohammed Shah. The temple has been under the patronage of the Mysore royal family and is ...

35. Horanadu Annapoorneswari Temple

At a distance of 29 km from Kudremukh, 42 km from Sringeri, and 70 km from Chikmagalur, Horanadu Annapoorneswari Temple is a famous temple situated in the thick forests of the Western Ghats in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. It is one of the popular temples in Karnataka , and among the must include places in Sringeri tour packages . Sri Annapoorneswari Temple is situated on the banks of River Bhadra and is also known as Sri Kshethra Horanadu. It is believed that this temple was established by Agasthya Maharishi. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneswari, one of the incarnations of Goddess Durga. A new idol of the main deity was installed at the temple in 1973. It can also be visited along with Chikmagalur Tour Packages . The temple is now known as Adi Shaktyatmaka Sri Annapoorneswari Temple. The recently renovated sanctum of the temple is surrounded by Adi Sesha while the Padma Peetha is formed by Ashtagaja, Koorma, and others. The main idol of the goddess is made of gold. The Goddess Annapoorneswari is seen standing on a peetha with four hands, each holding a Shanka, Chakra, Sri Chakra, and Gayathri Mantra. The name Annapoorneswari means feeding one and all. It is believed that a person who seeks Annapoorneswari's blessing will never face a shortage of food in life. It is believed that Lord ...

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Most Asked Questions on Karnataka

It usually takes minimum 5 days to visit top destinations in different circuits of Karnataka. It is difficult to cover all top places in Karnataka in a single trip, as the state is quote big. One can start from Bangalore and visit Mysore, Coorg & Chikmagalur. Starting from Mangalore, Udupi, Murudeshwar & Gokarna can be visited. Another popular circuit includes Hampi, Badami, Pattadakal and near by places.

Karnataka can be vistited through the year, however, winter from September to February is the best season to visit Karnataka. It is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. Hill stations like Coorg & Chikmagalur attract large crowds in summer season.

Budget of Karnataka trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Karnataka tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 15000 per person for a 5D/4N trip and from INR 21500 per person for 8D/7N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Karnataka like Mysore, Coorg, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Murudeshwar, Udupi, Gokarna, Badami, Bidar, etc. Mysore, Coorg & Hampi are most visited destinations in Karnataka.

Karnataka is one of the safest states in India and people are very liberal in nature. It is very safe for domestic & foreign tourists as well as single women to visit the state.

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25 Best Places to visit in Karnataka

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

Having lived in Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) for six years now, Karnataka has become my second home. Blessed with a glorious history and diverse natural landscape, it is, according to me the most under-rated travel destination in India.

Let me take you through the best places to visit in Karnataka, while talking about my love for this beautiful cultural state of India.

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

Karnataka – A brief introduction

Located in south India, Karnataka is the sixth largest state in India. With a 320 km long coastline along the Arabian Sea, bound by the resplendent Western Ghats and dotted with historic sites dating back to millennia, Karnataka indeed leaves up to its tourism tagline – “One State, Many Worlds”.

Thinking of crossing half the world to visit the Mayan ruins? Have you seen the breathtaking ruins of Vijayanagara just 300 km from Bangalore? Can't save enough for the trip to Maldives? Have you visited the Blue flag beaches of Karnataka or sailed to the Cintacor island for a luxury staycation? African jungles are calling but do you know the largest population of the endangered tigers is right here in the jungles of Karnataka? Mountains, waterfalls, rainforests, beaches , history- Karnataka has it all.

The history of Karnataka can be traced back to 2000 years! From the Mauryas of 3rd century B.C. , the Badami Chalukyas of 6th century A.D., followed by Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas and the great Vijayanagara empire the region has a glorious history in the early and middle ages.This was followed by the Deccan sultanate and the British colonial rule when it came to be known as the State of Mysore .

Post-independence several provinces where Kannada-speaking provinces united into the State of Mysore through the States re-organization Act of 1956. It was only in 1973 that the name of the state of Mysore became “Karnataka” – the land of Kannada-speaking people.

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My Favorite Five places to visit in Karnataka

I find it really hard to rank places I love travelling to. But I do have some clear favorites in Karnataka. Here’s my Fab 5! If you plan a trip to Karnataka for 7-10 days, you must not miss these places.

Ah, how can I describe my feelings for this beautiful historic city. Hampi was the capital of the great Vijayanagara Empire, believed to be the golden age of the region. The mighty Tungabhadra river cutting through the rocky landscape that are a part of the Dharwar Craton.

It means this is one of those rarest landmasses on the earth that have remained unchanged by volcanic or tectonic movements for millions of years! And with these rocks the architects created some timeless man-made wonders – temples, palaces, idols. Even though most of them were destroyed due to multiple wars, what remains of them will give you goosebumps. Read the fascinating facts about Hampi in this article I wrote.

Notable sights and activities

• Vijaya Vittala temple – the one with the musical pillars
• Virupaksha temple – one of the oldest living temples in its full glory
• Hemkunta group of monuments – another UNESCO world heritage site
• Coracle ride in Tungabhadra river
• Wildlife and bird-watching in Daroji wildlife sanctuary

How to Reach

Nearest domestic airport is at Bellary, 60 km away and nearest railway station is at Hospet 13km away. You can hire a local vehicle from either of these places to reach Hampi. To reach Hampi from Bengaluru, the nearest international airport you need to avail KSRTC bus or take a train to Hospet.

Recommended Stay

Clarks Inn Hampi – Excellent stay in mid-budget, right opposite to the Hampi museum. Has great amenities and an indoor swimming pool.

Recommended Tours

2-Day Hampi tour from Goa

“Scotland of India”, “Kashmir of the South”, tourist sites have many such phrases to describe Coorg. Well I haven’t been to Scotland or Kashmir yet, so I can’t vouch for them. What I can say is that a trip to Coorg is what made me fall in love with Karnataka in the first place.

The lofty mountains, large expanses of green as far as eyes can see, breathtaking wildlife – Coorg is a paradise for the lovers of nature and adventure. It’s one of the largest districts in Karnataka and one of t he most popular hill stations near Bangalore .

Notable sights and activities:

• Trekking and camping in the hills –Tadiadmol trek, Mandalpatti trek etc.
• Visit Abbey Falls and other beautiful waterfalls
• Talakaveri – the holy source of the river Kaveri
• Whitewater rafting in Barapole river

Private coffee & spice estate tour in Madikeri

Nearest domestic airport is at Mysore (120 km from Madikeri), whereas the nearest international airport is at Mangalore (140 km away). The nearest railway station is also at Mysore, 107 km away from Coorg. So to reach Coorg you will have to take KSRTC bus or hire a local cab from Mangalore, Mysore or Bengaluru. There are many private buses available too.

There are several luxury resorts in the cradle of nature at Coorg. Here are two great options.

Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa Coorg, Madikeri 

Club Mahindra , Virajpet – an excellent property in the interiors of Virajpet, away from the crowd.

Coorg Wilderness Resort – A Five-star Resort for a perfect luxury retreat

Blive electric bike tour – Coorg Nature Trail

Tree-top adventure trail

Gokarna is the hippie town of north Karnataka, the state’s own Goa. In fact I loved the beaches here much more than Goa. Some of the best beaches here are accessible through an hour-long trek, which makes them more mystical. If you are confused between the pull of the mountain and the sea, Gokarna is the place to be.

• Kudle Beach
• Paradise Beach

The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is 140 km away. The best way to reach Gokarna is by train to Ankola station, 20 km from Gokarna. 

There aren’t many big resorts or hotels here. What you have are zostels and earthly homestays. Here are my top recommendations:

Swa Swara Wellness retreat – if you love luxury and are ready to splurge a little.

Namaste Yoga Farm – A mid-range earthly stay near the Kudle Beach.

If you have a car, you can also stay a little far at Karwar where you will get a number of family-friendly mid-budget hotels and resorts. We stayed at Sterling Karwar on our trip to Gokarna and Karwar.

Gokarna Food Crawl – You will get authentic south Indian food that's both delicious and vegan-friendly

Gokarna Beach Trek

Shimoga 

Shimoga is the district most famous for Jog Falls – one of the highest waterfalls in India. While the view of Jog Falls is indeed memorable, there are many more memories to take away from this quaint place. The sparkling lakes, the opulent forests, forts and culture. 

• Marvel at the Jog Falls
• Visit Keladi – the village where people speak in Sanskrit
• Safari in Sharavati valley and national park
• Visit Gajanur Dam

Shimoga has its own domestic airport which is only 10 km away from the city center. It is well-connected to Delhi and Mumbai. But nearest international airport is in Mangalore. From Mangalore or Bengaluru , you can reach Shimoga by bus or cab. You can also avail train to the Shimoga train station.

Royal Orchid is a 4- star hotel available at a reasonable price range. It is close to the city center and near the Sharavati Wildlife park. A little far away from the center is the Kimmane Golf Resort which is great for an amazing family time and team building offsite.

Mysore/ Mysuru

Mysore – the city of palaces, is the third largest city in Karnataka and the most beautiful one. In fact it is one of the cleanest cities in India. Despite being a modern city, home to the famous training center of Infosys, Mysore retains an old-world charm. The Mysore Palace is the seat of the royal family of Karnataka, the Wodeyars. Besides the incredible sights and experience within the city, its proximity to some of the notable heritage sites and natural wonders is what gets Mysore to my Fab Five!

• Mysore Palace
• Chamundi Hills
• Brindavan Gardens
• Shopping for Mysroe silk and handicrafts

How to Reach:

The nearest international airport from Mysore is the Bangalore Airport which is less than 200 km away. From Bangalore, you can reach Mysore by KSRTC bus, train or cab. Mysore itself is well-connected to other cities by trains like Mysore Express, Chamundi Express, Kaveri express etc.

Where to stay

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore, Mysore

Grand Murcure

Mysuru day trip from Bangalore

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Best places to visit in Karnataka for History, Culture and Architecture

Monuments bear the testimony of 2000 years of Karnataka’s history, art and culture. Ancient temples have stories of Hindu mythology as well as folk tales depicted through art. Imposing forts encapsulate the stories of their time. While heritage sites of Hampi simply transport you to an era hundreds of years back, the opulent, well-maintained Mysore palace gives you a glimpse of royalty in the present age. Here are some other places of interest for lovers of history and architecture.

The Silicon Valley of India is also dotted with several architectural masterpieces, both old and new. While Bangalore is famous for the tree-lined streets, large parks, lakes and amazing weather, the historic side is not known to many.

Vidhan Soudha , the house of state legislative assembly in Karnataka, Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan’s summer residence, Devanahalli fort etc. are few notable monuments here. Centuries-old temples like Hulimavu cave temple in Bannerghatta National Park, Gavipuram cave temple near City Park, Kolar temple near Nandi Hills hold special significance for history and art lovers.

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Pattadakal-Aihole-Badami

Pattadakal, Aihole and Badami is the Chalukya-trio, the three principle cities of the 7th-century Chalukya dynasty. Badami was the administrative capital of the Chalukyas, Aihole was the seat of learning and Pattadakal the cultural capital.

The Chalukyas were great connoisseur of art and architecture. The cluster of temples of Pattadakal is a UNESCO world heritage site. While Aihole and Pattadakal are famous for the intricate architecture combining styles from North and South India, Badami is known for ancient hidden cave temples.

Talakadu and Somnathpur

Somnathpur is a great place to visit on a one-day trip from Bangalore. It is famous for the Chennakeshava temple , a living temple which is nearly 800 years old. This grand Hoysala architecture will leave you awestruck.

Close to Somnathpur lies Talakadu – a historic village and a mini-desert in Karnataka. Once known as the Benaras of the South, Talakadu is dotted with ancient temples which were submerged by sand deposited by the Kaveri river. How the river changed its course creating a desert in this deeply forested region inspires folklores and geologists alike.

When in Somnathpur don’t forget to visit the majestic Shivasamudram Falls, a natural wonder of Karnataka.

Temple Towns of Hassan

Hassan is home to the historic towns of Belur and Halebidu. The twin towns located close to each other are home to some of the most magnificent temples from Hoysala period. The intricate stone carvings which have stood the test of time will take your breath away. Besides Hinduism, Jainism also flourished in this district. The Jain Basadi complex of Helebidu constructuted in 12th century is dedicated to three Jain Tirthankaras.

Located near Yagachi river, Belur is a temple-town which transports you to the 7th century. Most of the temples here, like most Hoysala temples are dedicated to God Vishnu, while the two main Hindu temples of Halebidu are dedicated to God Shiva.

A little further from Belur and Halebidu is the Bahubali temple of Shravanabelegola. The 900-year old, 18-m-high statue of Mahavir Jain is considered to be the world’s largest free-standing monolith. This is the great Jain pilgrimage site where you can experience the Mahamasthakabhisheka ceremony.

Check out this heritage tour of Shravanabelegola and Halebidu for an exhilarating experience.

Check out these bundle of travel booklets for the most historic places in Karnataka!

The vanishing ruins of the Shettihalli church located near the Hassan city also intrigues tourists.

Bijapur, also known as Vijayapura (the Land of Victory) is located in the North-west Karnataka, near the border of Maharashtra. The city was built by the Kalyani Chalukyas and later became a part of the Deccan Sultanate. The most famous landmark of this city is the Gol Gumbaz , a magnificent mausoleum of Sultam Mohamad Ali Shah. It is the world’s second largest dome that is not supported by pillars. Other heritage sites here include Ibrahim Roza, a palatial mosque that inspired the design of Taj Mahal, Bara Kaman, Malik-e-maidan, Shivagiri etc.

is the second largest Tibetan settlement in India. Located in the Mysuru district near the border of Coorg, this place is marked with serenity. There are many beautiful Buddhist monasteries here where the Tibetian Budhists built their abode. the most famous among them is the Namdroling monastery aka Golden Temple. You can spend your day strolling in the other monasteries , exploring the Tibetian settlement and relishing their cuisine.

You can also visit Nisargadhama , the beautiful delta of Kaveri river. Sail in the river surrounded by dense and peaceful forests amongst peacocks, elephants and deer.

Best places to visit in Karnataka for Beach-lovers

The 320-km long coastline of Karnataka is called Karavalli, meaning “coast” in Kannada. The coastline has three broad segments Uttara Kannada, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada. While Uttara Kannada is home to the serene and pristine beaches , Udupi and Dakshina Kannda are more commercial.

This book covers the rich history and culture on coastal Karnataka.

Karwar is a hidden paradise for lovers of nature. The last stop before you enter South Goa from Karnataka, this picturesque beach town at the confluence of the majestic Kali river and the Arabian sea. The first non-European Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore spent few years of his youth here. The Tagore beach is a tribute to the literary genius. Besides that the unique black sand beach called Tilmati beach, the Warship Museum, the rock garden, the majestic Kali river and Karwar beach are some of the highlights of Karwar.

Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar is known for the spectacular Shiva Temple on the beach. The 123 ft tall statue of lord Shiva overlooking the Arabian Sea is a sight to behold. Besides the beach and the temple , you can visit the Murdeshwar fort, Bhatkal beach and sail to heart-shaped Netrani island.

Honnavar is home to one of the eight Blue Flag beaches in India, the Kasarkod Beach . This is a 5km long enchanting beach of white sand with a park, a boating center and Swiss cottages in the Casuarina forests. We landed in this beach just while exploring offbeat tracks on our way back from Karwar. 

Other places of interest in this old port town that hosted Arab and later European traders are Apsarakonda Waterfalls, Apsarakonda beach, Hanging bridge etc.

St Mary’s Island

St.Mary’s island is a idyllic island in the Arabian Sea accessible through boat from the Malpe beach of Udupi. It is the most sought after destination for beach-lovers who visit Udupi. The unique volcanic rock formations in this island are one of the 32 geological monuments of India.

Udupi is a coastal district centered around the temple town of Udupi. Besides beaches, it is known for the various notable temples, most famous of them being the 13th-century Sri Krishna Matha .

Other remarkable beaches of Udupi are Malpe beach , Mattu beach and Padubidri beach. Located 17km away from the main town, Padubidri beach is the other Blue Flag beach of India (besides Kasarkod). Maravanthe beach located in the Kundapura Taluk is another beautiful drive-in beach with sea on one side and river on the other.

Located in Dakshina Kannada, Mangalore is a coastal city that is a center of trade as well as tourism. The natural beauty of its beaches and glimpses of history in the heritage sites beckons travel lovers from all over India. Ullal beach, Someshwara beach and Panambur beach are the most famous beaches in the city.

Besides beaches, Mangalore has some beautiful parks like Pilikul Nisargadhama, butterfly park, hill park etc. Heritage sites include Jamalabad fort, the 11th century Kadri Vishwanatha temple, and the colonial religious architecture like Aloysius Chapel and Milagres Church.

Best places to visit in Karnataka for Hill-station and Wildlife

Bound by the uninterrupted stretch of Sahyadri range, also called the Western Ghats of India, Karnataka has some of the most beautiful hill stations and forests of South India. Coorg is my favorite among them, but here are the other notable places to visit in Karnataka for the love of mountains. The best thing about the Western Ghats in Karnataka is the temperate weather throughout the year.

Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is a favorite weekend getaway among the IT-crowd in Bangalore. Located at the foot of Mullyangiri hills, the highest mountain in Karnataka, Chikamagalur is known as the land of coffee. It is believed that a legendary Muslim saint Baba Budan smuggled a few coffee beans from Arab and sowed the seeds here. That was the inception of coffee plantation in India, a place that is now called Bababudangiri .

When in Chikmagalur , enjoy your time in a local homestay inside a coffee estate or a forest on the banks of river. Visit the Jhari Falls hidden from common sight, located deep inside a private coffee estate. Take a toy train-ride in the MG Park and experience the magical sunset in Hirekolale lake .

Bandipur is among the four inter-connected national parks which have the highest population of tigers in India. The others are Nagarhole (Coorg in Karnataka), Mudumalai (Tamil Nadu) and Wayanad (Kerala). Besides the gorgeous striped beast, the bountiful forest is home to elephants, deer, peacocks, monkeys and several other exotic wildlife species. The dense forests provide a great frame for sunset.

It is one of the best places for jungle safari in India .

Agumbe is a dense rain-forest in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. Because of the heavy rainfall it receives throughout the year it is also called “Cherrapunji of the South”. Agumbe rainforest research station (ARSS) is one of its kind which specializes in research of the unique faunal diversity of this region. The most important subject of research here is that of King Cobra.

In Agumbe you can experience raw nature like nowhere else. The Agumbe viewpoint gives you breathtaking views of the valley and the sunset point is purely magical during the golden hours. The view of the lakes and landscape of Shimoga from the Kundadri hill-top is mesmerizing.

Nestled in the Western Ghats region of the Hassan district, Sakleshpur is a charming hill station in Karnataka. The Bisle village  and Bisle Reserve forest is a thing of great beauty. You can get a bird’s eye view of this place from the Bidle Ghat viewpoint. The highlight of Sakleshpur is the historic Manjarabad Fort, a heart shaped fort built by Karnataka’s famous ruler Tipu Sultan.

Magajahalli waterfalls, Sri Sakleshwara Swamy Temple and Betta Byreshwara temple are other places of interest in Sakleshpur.

Located on the banks of Kali river in North Karnataka, near the Goa border, Dandelli is a treat for nature-lovers and adventure seekers. If you are looking for peace and tranquility book a quaint homestay in villages like Castle Rock, and spend your time exploring the forest trails, bird-watching and experiencing nature at its best. Adventure-seekers go for white-water rafting in Kali river, jungle safari, Kayaking etc.

So here’s my bucket-list for Karnataka. There are many other beautiful places I have visited like Gudibande , Ramnagara, Manipal, Sangam etc. which I didn’t include here. Have you visited Karnataka? Is there any of your favorites I have missed? Do tell me in the comments section.

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This is such an elaborated guide. Loved it. I have been to Coorg last year and loved its vibe.

Great list! I’d love to see the temples and the tigers. How would you recommend getting around?

Hi Sarah, You can use both train or volvo bus service to get around Karnataka starting with Bangalore as it has the largest airport in the state. You can also hire cabs using app based car rentals. Inside cities and towns like Mysore, Bangalore, Hampi , Gokarna you can hire scooters or cycles using apps or from hotels for exploring within the city.

Felt nice to read about my state…well described…thankyou..Wishing you good luck.

wow, this is so amazing article about visiting the best places at Karnataka. its really very interesting article. thanks for sharing this amazing article about the best places to visit Karnataka.

Such a great idea about the places too visit Karnataka thanks sharing this article

Really it’s a fantastic blog, I’ll definitely visit those places one day. Good work, Keep going.

Thank you so much!

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Must Visit Monuments in Karnataka

Karnataka has the second highest number of certified landmarks in India, with the exception of 752 landmarks protected by the Government Directorate of Archeology and Museums and another 25,000 sites still to be certified. This makes it clear that Karnataka is the perfect place for all fans of history to satisfy your hunger for something new in India.

My Trip To Sharavathi Adventure Camp

Among the magnificent mountains and serene forests, the Sharavathi Adventure Camp is located. It is not difficult to see how wonderful nature is from this lodge, tourists can witness numerous species of plants and animals, wild creatures in their natural habitat and observe the ecosystem of the forest. At a distance of about 6 km from Jog Falls, Sharavathi Adventure Camp is an ideal place for enjoying the lush green forests of Karnataka that boast of impressive wildlife.

Wine Tour To Sula Vineyards

Sula vineyard, located in Channapatna and is an exquisite place frequently visited by tourists. Sprawling across acres of land, Sula makes several types of aromatic and flavorful wine. It gives travelers a great opportunity to learn more about wine tourism, winemaking as well as tasting. Sula Vineyards covers a large section of land in Channapatna and has become an attractive tourist spot

Top 10 Beaches in Karnataka

Karnataka is the land of spectacular scenic beauty and picturesque views. It has some of the most incredible and wide array of beaches. These exquisite coasts along the Arabian Sea are extremely beautiful and captivating with its sparkling water and glistening sand beaches.

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Must See Tourist Places in Karnataka

Welcome to the heart of the Deccan Plateau, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a tapestry of unparalleled experiences.

Karnataka, a land of diverse landscapes and rich heritage, beckons travelers with many must-see tourist places in Karnataka.

In this extensive guide, we will embark on a virtual tour spanning the length and breadth of Karnataka, highlighting the unique attractions that make this state a traveler’s paradise.

Our odyssey begins in Bangalore, the dynamic capital city often called the Silicon Valley of India.

Here, modern skyscrapers stand tall, sharing the skyline with age-old trees, and tech-savvy professionals coexist with artists embracing tradition. As the hub of innovation and a melting pot of diverse cultures, Bangalore sets the stage for exploring Karnataka’s multifaceted charm.

Each chapter will unfold a new facet of Karnataka’s tourism, offering a comprehensive guide to the must-see places that make this state a traveler’s delight.

So, join us in this virtual exploration as we navigate through the dynamic landscapes, historical legacies, and cultural riches that define Karnataka’s allure.

“Tourist Places in Karnataka” is not just a phrase; it’s an invitation to embark on a journey through time and tranquility, discovering the myriad wonders that await in this vibrant Indian state.

1.  Bangalore: The Silicon Valley with a Cultural Twist

Our journey begins in Bangalore, the bustling capital known for its vibrant I.T. industry and dynamic culture.

Discover the mix of modernity and practice as we explore iconic landmarks like Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Vidhana Soudha, and the historic Bangalore Palace.

Dive into the city’s thriving food scene and witness the lively ambiance of M.G. Road and Brigade Road.

Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Bangalore, often called the “Silicon Valley of India,” is a city that effortlessly blends the dynamism of a tech hub with a rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

As we embark on exploring Bangalore, the first chapter in our journey through the tourist places in Karnataka, we unravel the layers of this metropolis, discovering its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and the perfect harmony between tradition and modernity.

Bangalore, the technological powerhouse, is a testament to India’s prowess in the I.T. industry.

The city’s skyline is adorned with futuristic buildings housing multinational corporations, earning it the moniker “Silicon Valley.”

Companies like Infosys, Wipro, and tech startups have found a home in this bustling metropolis, contributing to its dynamic economic landscape.

Yet, beyond the glass facades and corporate corridors, Bangalore has much more to offer.

The city doesn’t just thrive on technology but also pulsates with a cultural heartbeat that resonates through every street and neighborhood.

Our journey begins with the enchanting Lalbagh Botanical Garden, an oasis of greenery in the city’s heart.

This botanical marvel spans over 240 acres, featuring a diverse collection of plants, serene lakes, and exquisite flower beds.

Lalbagh is not merely a garden; it’s a haven where tech professionals find solace amidst bustling work schedules and tourists immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

As we move through the city, Vidhana Soudha, the seat of Karnataka’s legislative assembly, is a majestic symbol of architectural grandeur.

This monumental tower, constructed in the neo-Dravidian style, reflects the state’s cultural heritage and administrative prowess.

It is a visual spectacle during the evenings when illuminated, casting a spellbinding aura on all who behold it.

Venturing into the heart of Bangalore, the regal Bangalore Palace awaits. The Windsor Castle inspired this architectural gem in England and reflects the luxury of the bygone era.

With its Tudor-style architecture, sprawling grounds, and ornate interiors, the palace transports visitors to a time when Bangalore was a princely state steeped in regal splendor.

Our cultural exploration takes us to the lively streets of M.G. Road and Brigade Road, the beating heart of Bangalore’s commercial and cultural district.

Here, traditional and modern Bangalore fusion is most palpable, as street vendors share space with high-end boutiques, and historic landmarks stand next to trendy cafes.

In this first chapter of our Karnataka tour, Bangalore unfolds as a city where the worlds of technology and culture converge seamlessly.

It’s a destination for tech enthusiasts and a haven for those seeking a cultural twist amid the digital hustle.

The keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” resonates in Bangalore’s diverse offerings, inviting visitors to explore the city’s technological achievements and cultural treasures.

As we progress in our journey, the richness of tourist places in Karnataka is bound to unfold further, promising a tapestry of experiences that transcend expectations.

2. Mysuru: Of Palaces, Gardens, and Royalty

Traveling southwest, we reach the regal city of Mysuru, home to the magnificent Mysuru Palace, a testament to the luxury of the Wadiyars.

Stroll through the lush Brindavan Gardens and explore the intricacies of the Chamundi Hills. Mysuru’s rich cultural heritage is unveiled in its bustling markets and the vibrant Dasara Festival, a spectacle of grandeur.

As our exploration of enchanting tourist places in Karnataka continues, we find ourselves drawn to the regal city of Mysuru, where history unfolds like a royal tapestry, adorned with palaces, sprawling gardens, and the echoes of an era steeped in grandeur.

Mysuru, often referred to as the cultural capital of Karnataka, stands as a testament to the luxury of the Wadiyars, inviting us to immerse ourselves in a world where palaces and gardens whisper tales of royalty.

Our journey through Mysuru commences with the crown jewel of the city – the Mysuru Palace.

This architectural masterpiece, a blend of Indo-Saracenic style with a hint of Dravidian, reflects the grandeur of a bygone era.

The palace’s intricately carved arches, vibrant stained glass windows, and ornate interiors transport visitors to a time when the Wadiyars held sway over the region.

As we traverse the palace halls adorned with artifacts, royal portraits, and regal memorabilia, the essence of Mysuru’s royal heritage comes alive.

The Durbar Hall, with its opulent ceiling and Belgian crystal chandeliers, is a witness to the grand ceremonies that once unfolded within its walls.

Our exploration of Mysuru extends to the enchanting Brindavan Gardens, a symphony of nature and design adjacent to the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam.

This meticulously manicured garden, designed by Sir Mirza Ismail, is a floral paradise with musical fountains and vibrant displays of light during the evenings.

As the sun sets and the gardens are illuminated, visitors witness a breathtaking spectacle, with the dancing fountains performing in harmony with music and lights.

Brindavan Gardens epitomizes the blending of horticultural aesthetics with the allure of technology, offering a serene escape for those seeking solace amidst nature’s beauty.

Our journey takes a spiritual turn as we ascend the Chamundi Hills, home to the sacred Chamundeshwari Temple.

The climb, marked by a thousand steps, is a pilgrimage for devotees and a trek for adventure seekers.

The temple’s ornate architecture and panoramic views of Mysuru from the hilltop make this ascent a holistic experience that resonates with spirituality and natural beauty.

Mysuru’s cultural richness is magnificently showcased during the Dasara Festival, a celebration reverberating grandeur and festivities.

The city dons a festive avatar as processions, cultural performances, and the grand Dasara parade captivate locals and tourists alike.

The illuminated Mysuru Palace becomes the focal point of the celebrations, embodying the spirit of Karnataka’s cultural heritage.

Exploring Mysuru is only complete with a visit to its bustling markets. Devaraja Market, with its colorful array of spices, silk, and sandalwood products, offers a sensory delight that captures the essence of local life. Here, the vibrancy of Mysuru’s everyday existence unfolds, connecting the city’s regal past and contemporary vitality.

3. Hampi: A Journey through Ruins and Temples

Venturing into the northern realms of Karnataka, we discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi. This archaeological wonder is adorned with ancient ruins, majestic temples, and a landscape that transports visitors to a bygone era.

Explore the Virupaksha Temple, witness the iconic stone chariot, and immerse yourself in the historical saga of the Vijayanagara Empire. As our odyssey through captivating tourist places in Karnataka unfolds, the trail leads us to Hampi’s ancient ruins and temples.

Nestled on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Hampi stands as a testament to the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire. In this chapter, we embark on a journey through the remnants of a bygone era, where the whispers of history echo through the captivating landscape.

Hampi, known as a World Heritage Site, is an open-air museum that transports visitors to the 14th century, when it served as the vibrant capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The ruins, spread across a vast expanse, tell tales of a once-thriving city adorned with grand temples, majestic palaces, and bustling marketplaces.

Our exploration begins at the Virupaksha Temple, the living heart of Hampi and one of the few functioning temples amidst the ruins. The towering gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and sacred sanctums stand as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara era.

We gaze at the iconic stone chariot in the Vitthala Temple as we traverse the temple complexes. This chariot, intricately carved from a single block of granite, symbolizes the architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara artisans. It stands as a testament to the empire’s cultural and artistic achievements, offering a glimpse into the past grandeur of Hampi.

For a panoramic view of Hampi’s surreal landscape, we ascend Hemakuta Hill. The hill is dotted with ancient temples, each revealing a different facet of the Vijayanagara architectural style.

As the sun sets over the boulder-strewn terrain, the play of light and shadows accentuates the dramatic contours, creating a visual spectacle that lingers in the memory.

While Hampi is known for its prominent landmarks, hidden gems like the Achyutaraya Temple offer a more secluded exploration. This temple is adorned with mesmerizing carvings and provides an intimate connection with the historical charm of Hampi.

Our journey meanders through the Hampi Bazaar, once a bustling marketplace that catered to traders from around the world. The remnants of this market and the architectural elegance of the Lotus Mahal showcase the city’s fusion of commerce and culture during its zenith.

As we conclude this chapter, Hampi remains an archaeological marvel that beckons history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and curious wanderers to uncover the mysteries embedded in its time-worn stones.

Our journey through tourist places in Karnataka continues, promising more revelations and awe-inspiring experiences as we traverse this cultural tapestry.

4. Gokarna: Where Beaches Meet Spirituality

Our exploration takes us westward to the coastal town of Gokarna, where pristine beaches and spiritual vibes converge. Unwind on the sandy shores of Om Beach, trek to the secluded Half Moon Beach, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of Mahabaleshwar Temple. 

As we weave through the diverse fabric of tourist places in Karnataka, our journey brings us to the enchanting coastal town of Gokarna. Nestled between the azure Arabian Sea and the lush Western Ghats, Gokarna unveils a tapestry where pristine beaches meet the spiritual vibrations of ancient temples.

This chapter delves into the harmonious blend of sun, sand, and spirituality that defines Gokarna’s unique allure. Gokarna’s claim to fame is the serene Om Beach, named for its shape, similar to the sacred symbol ‘Om.’

The gentle waves of the Arabian Sea caress the shores, creating a tranquil aura that invites guests to unwind and connect with the natural beauty surrounding them. Whether it’s a stroll along the shoreline or a yoga session at sunrise, Om Beach provides a sanctuary for those seeking solace in the lap of nature.

Venturing along the coastline, we discover the secluded paradise of Half Moon Beach. Accessible by boat or a trek through the rocky terrain, this crescent-shaped haven offers a more intimate setting for travelers looking to escape the crowds.

The pristine sands, swaying palms, and the sound of the waves create an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and introspection. Gokarna’s spiritual essence is embodied in the sacred Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

This ancient temple, situated at the confluence of the Aghanashini River and the Arabian Sea, holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to the temple’s serene atmosphere, where the rhythmic chants of prayers blend with the soothing sounds of the sea.

Backpackers and beach lovers converge here to experience the unhurried pace of life, surrounded by the panoramic beauty of the Arabian Sea. The beachside shacks offer a taste of local cuisine, making it an ideal spot to savor fresh seafood while enjoying the sunset.

Gokarna’s allure is its unique ability to blend spirituality with leisure seamlessly. While the Mahabaleshwar Temple resonates with ancient rituals and devotion, the nearby beaches beckon those seeking a more relaxed and carefree experience.

The juxtaposition of the sacred and the serene creates a magnetic pull that attracts a diverse array of travelers, from backpackers to pilgrims. The town of Gokarna, away from the shoreline, exudes a traditional charm with its narrow streets, vibrant markets, and ancient structures.

Visitors can explore the local culture, shop for souvenirs, and engage with the friendly locals who contribute to the town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.

5. Coorg: The Scotland of India

Heading towards the lush Western Ghats, we arrive in Coorg, often referred to as the Scotland of India. Marvel at the expansive coffee plantations, witness the grandeur of Abbey Falls and embark on a trek to the scenic Tadiandamol Peak. Coorg’s enchanting landscapes and pleasant climate make it a haven for nature lovers.

As our journey through diverse tourist places in Karnataka unfolds, the trail leads us to the picturesque landscapes of Coorg, often hailed as the “Scotland of India.” Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Coorg captivates with its lush greenery, mist-covered hills, and a serene atmosphere that takes guests to a domain of wild peach and tranquility.

These plantations contribute to India’s coffee production and create a canvas of vibrant hues punctuated by the deep green of the coffee bushes. Visitors are treated to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, creating a sensory experience that defines the essence of Coorg.

Our journey into the lush landscapes of Coorg brings us to Abbey Falls, a captivating cascade nestled amidst verdant surroundings. The gushing waters of the falls create a mesmerizing spectacle as they plunge into a pool below, surrounded by dense foliage.

The mist rising from the falls adds a touch of mystique, creating an ethereal atmosphere that invites visitors to witness nature’s grandeur.

For those seeking an adventure, Tadiandamol Peak beckons with its promise of panoramic views and trekking delights. Standing as the highest peak in Coorg, the trek to Tadiandamol offers a physical challenge and a chance to witness the stunning looks of Coorg from a lofty vantage point.

The lush valleys, dense forests, and distant hills unfold like a painter’s masterpiece, creating a sense of serenity at the summit. Coorg’s charm extends beyond its landscapes to its unique experiences, such as the Dubare Elephant Camp.

From bathing elephants in the river to observing their daily activities, the camp offers an intimate encounter with these majestic creatures, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Coorg surprises with its cultural diversity, exemplified by the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe.

Home to thousands of monks and nuns, this Tibetan Buddhist monastery is a tranquil retreat adorned with vibrant murals and ornate decorations. The sound of chanting and the sight of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze create an atmosphere of serenity, transporting visitors to the highlands of Tibet within the heart of Coorg.

As the day draws close, Raja’s Seat unfolds as a perfect vantage point to witness the sunset over the Coorg hills. This scenic garden was once the favorite spot of Coorg’s kings, who would marvel at the panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Today, visitors can relax amidst the well-maintained gardens, enjoying the breathtaking hues as the sun dips below the horizon.

6. Badami: A Canvas of Cave Temples

Our journey takes an artistic turn as we explore the cave temples of Badami. These ancient temples showcase exquisite rock-cut architecture and intricate sculptures. The Badami Cave Temples and the nearby Aihole and Pattadakal form a trilogy of archaeological marvels narrating the tales of Chalukyan craftsmanship.

Our exploration through the kaleidoscopic landscapes of Karnataka leads us to the historic town of Badami, a mesmerizing canvas adorned with cave temples that narrate the tales of an ancient civilization. Carved into the rust-red sandstone cliffs, the cave temples of Badami transport visitors to a bygone era, where art, architecture, and spirituality converged in perfect harmony.

The heartbeat of Badami resonates within its rock-cut cave temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises four primary caves dedicated to Hindu deities. Carved between the 6th and 8th centuries by the Chalukya dynasty, each cave tells a unique story through intricate sculptures, exquisite reliefs, and grandeur that withstand the test of time.

Cave 1, dedicated to Lord Shiva, welcomes visitors with a colossal sculpture of Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. The cave’s interior reveals intricate carvings depicting mythological narratives and celestial beings. As sunlight filters through the entrance, it illuminates the sanctum, creating a divine ambiance.

Cave 2, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, unfolds with a colossal depiction of Trivikrama, an incarnation of Vishnu. The detailed carvings on the walls narrate epic episodes, showcasing the Chalukyan artisans’s artistic finesse. The cave is a testament to the religious tolerance of the era, as it houses Hindu and Jain temples.

Cave 3, the largest of the four, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The intricately carved panels narrate the tales of Lord Krishna, and the massive pillars and sculptures showcase the architectural grandeur of the Chalukyan dynasty. The ceiling of the veranda displays an exceptional lotus motif, adding to the cave’s aesthetic allure.

Cave 4, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, represents the Jain philosophy through its detailed sculptures. The depiction of Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, is a testament to the inclusive nature of art in Badami.

Nestled along the Agastya Lake, the Bhutanatha Temple is a picturesque testimony to the architectural brilliance of Badami. This twin-shrine temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an exquisite example of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles. The temple’s reflection in the lake’s serene waters adds to its charm, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

The fort, originally built by Tipu Sultan, bears witness to the region’s historical transitions. Exploring the fort not only unveils the military architecture of the past but also provides a vantage point to admire the sprawling town of Badami.

Our journey through Badami extends to the Archaeological Museum, where artifacts excavated from the cave temples and surrounding areas find a home. The museum offers a curated glimpse into the region’s history, showcasing sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts that provide insights into the cultural richness of Badami.

7. Udupi: Of Temples, Beaches, and Cuisine

Nestled along the Arabian Sea, Udupi unveils a world of temples, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine. Visit the renowned Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, relax on the beaches of Malpe, and savor the authentic Udupi cuisine known for its delicious vegetarian fare. Udupi offers a delightful blend of spirituality, relaxation, and gastronomic delights.

Our journey through Karnataka’s diverse tapestry brings us to the coastal town of Udupi. In this cultural haven, ancient temples, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine converge to create a multifaceted experience. Udupi, nestled along the Arabian Sea, is a destination that invites travelers to explore its spiritual, natural, and gastronomic treasures.

The heartbeat of Udupi resonates within the sacred precincts of the Sri Krishna Temple. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this historic temple is a center of pilgrimage and devotion. The unique feature of the temple is the ‘Kanakana Kindi,’ a small window through which the idol of Lord Krishna can be seen.

The daily ‘Anna Prasada’ served at the temple is a tradition that has been followed for centuries, symbolizing the spirit of selfless service and community. As we traverse the cultural landscape of Udupi, the Chandramouleshwara Temple stands as an architectural marvel that dates back to the Vijayanagara era.

The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcases intricate carvings and sculptures narrating Hindu mythology tales. The sanctum, adorned with a Shiva Linga, exudes a serene ambiance, inviting devotees and art enthusiasts alike to witness the timeless beauty of the past.

Udupi’s charm extends to its pristine beaches, and Malpe Beach emerges as a serene retreat along the Arabian Sea. The golden sands, gentle waves, and clear blue sky create a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers and those seeking a moment of repose.

The nearby St. Mary’s Island, with its unique hexagonal basaltic rock formations, adds a touch of geological fascination to the coastal experience. Manipal is just a stone’s throw away from Udupi, a bustling educational hub known for its prestigious institutions.

Manipal University and the diverse student population contribute to the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Exploring Manipal offers a glimpse into the academic energy that fuels the region, making it an interesting detour for those curious about the intersection of education and culture.

Every visit to Udupi is complete with indulging in its renowned cuisine. Udupi has gifted the world with the flavors of South Indian vegetarian fare, characterized by its simplicity and authenticity.

The Udupi Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak, and the delectable Udupi Sambar are culinary delights transcending regional borders. Visitors can savor these delicacies in the town’s traditional eateries, each serving a culinary legacy that has stood the test of time.

Udupi is also known for its unique Paryaya Festival, where the responsibility of performing daily rituals at the Sri Krishna Temple is transferred from one seer (Swamiji) to another. This ceremony takes place every two years, attracting pilgrims and tourists who witness the grandeur of the procession and the cultural significance of this age-old tradition.

8. Bijapur: The City of Victory

Stepping into the northern part of Karnataka, we encounter the historic city of Bijapur, renowned for its architectural marvels from the Adil Shahi dynasty. Explore the grandeur of Gol Gumbaz, marvel at the intricate Ibrahim Rouza, and witness the ancient beauty of Jod Gumbaz. Bijapur is a testament to the victory and architectural prowess of medieval Karnataka.

Our exploration of Karnataka’s rich heritage leads us to Bijapur, a city steeped in history and architectural splendor. Known as the “City of Victory,” Bijapur narrates tales of conquests, cultural fusion, and the grandeur of the Deccan Sultanate.

As we traverse the labyrinthine streets of this ancient city, iconic monuments of Karnataka echo the victories and aspirations of a bygone era.

a) Gol Gumbaz: The Whispering Dome

Bijapur’s skyline is dominated by the iconic Gol Gumbaz, a mausoleum that stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Adil Shahi dynasty.

The central dome of Gol Gumbaz is one of the largest in the world, and its unique acoustic properties make it a marvel of engineering.

A mere whisper at one end of the whispering gallery reverberates and reaches the other, creating an awe-inspiring auditory experience.

The tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur, lies at the center, surrounded by the symmetrical arches and galleries that characterize the structure.

b)  Ibrahim Rauza: The Twin Monuments

Bijapur unfolds another architectural gem in the form of Ibrahim Rauza, a complex that includes the tomb of Ibrahim Adil Shah II and his queen.

The twin structures, adorned with intricate calligraphy and stunning tile work, showcase the Indo-Persian architectural style.

The serene ambiance of the complex, set against the backdrop of a large tank, adds to the charm, creating a tranquil space for reflection and appreciation of the artistic heritage.

c) Jama Masjid: Grandeur in Simplicity

The Jama Masjid of Bijapur, built during the reign of Ali Adil Shah I, is a testament to the city’s cultural synthesis.

Though relatively simple, the mosque exudes grandeur through its massive domes, slender minarets, and expansive courtyard.

The mosque’s architecture reflects the amalgamation of Persian and Indian styles, creating a harmonious blend that symbolizes religious tolerance and artistic fusion.

d) Malik-e-Maidan: The Monarch of Cannons

Nestled within the city is the Malik-e-Maidan, one of the largest medieval cannons in the world.

This colossal cannon, weighing around 55 tons, is a marvel of metallurgy and engineering.

The cannon rests on a massive stone platform, and its barrel is adorned with intricate artwork.

Malik-e-Maidan serves as a silent witness to the military prowess and technological advancements of the Adil Shahi dynasty.

e) Bijapur Fort: – Sentinel of History

The Bijapur Fort, with its towering walls and bastions, encapsulates the city’s strategic significance throughout history.

The fort houses various monuments, including the Asar Mahal and the Bara Kaman.

Exploring the fort allows visitors to trace the footsteps of the rulers who shaped Bijapur’s destiny, leaving behind a legacy that continues to unfold with every step within the fort’s precincts.

f) Asar Mahal: Relics of the Past

Within the Bijapur Fort, the Asar Mahal emerges as a repository of relics and artifacts.

Originally built as a hall of justice, the Asar Mahal now houses a collection of holy relics and the sword of the Prophet Muhammad.

The delicate inlay work and intricate carvings make it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and those fascinated by the cultural legacy of Bijapur.

In Bijapur, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” resonates with the monumental triumphs and architectural marvels that dot the cityscape.

Each monument is a silent witness to the ebb and flow of history, narrating stories of courage, cultural exchange, and artistic brilliance.

As we bid farewell to Bijapur, the echoes of victory and the city’s enduring spirit accompany us, paving the way for the next chapter in our exploration of enchanting tourist places in Karnataka.

9. Jog Falls: Nature’s Spectacle in the Western Ghats

Our journey takes a thrilling detour to Jog Falls, the second-highest plunge waterfall in India. Nestled in the verdant Western Ghats, Jog Falls cascades down a rugged cliff, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Witness the beauty of the four distinct falls – Raja, Roarer, Rocket, and Rani – and embark on a nature-infused adventure in the lush surroundings.

Our journey through the diverse landscapes of Karnataka takes an exhilarating turn as we venture towards Jog Falls, a breathtaking cascade nestled amidst the verdant expanse of the Western Ghats. Nature’s grandeur unfolds in Jog Falls, a spectacle that captivates the senses and exemplifies the inspiring beauty of Karnataka’s new wonders.

Jog Falls, also known as Gerusoppa Falls, is not just a waterfall; it’s a symphony of nature’s elements in their most dynamic form. The falls consist of four distinct cascades—Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket—that collectively plunge from about 830 feet. Water’s sheer force and volume create a mesmerizing spectacle reverberating the surrounding landscapes.

The tallest Raja among the four cascades exudes majesty as it plunges down the rugged cliffs. The water descends in a single unbroken column, creating a captivating visual reflecting the Sharavathi River’s untamed power. The mist rising from the impact adds an ethereal touch to the scene, making the Raja a commanding presence in the ensemble of Jog Falls.

Adjacent to the Raja, the Rani descends with a more graceful and cascading flow. The water fans out as it makes its way down, creating an intricate pattern that contrasts with the powerful descent of the Raja. The two cascades harmonize nature’s contrasting forces, offering viewers a unique and unforgettable panorama.

As the name suggests, the Roarer lives up to its reputation as the noisiest among the four falls. The thunderous roar of the water echoes through the surroundings, creating a symphony of sound that complements the visual splendor. The sheer force of the Roarer emphasizes the relentless power of the Sharavathi River as it carves its path through the Western Ghats.

The fourth cascade, known as the Rocket, adds a touch of finesse to the ensemble. The water descends with a graceful yet rapid flow reminiscent of a rocket’s trajectory. The playful dance of the Rocket completes the quartet, showcasing the diversity of forms that water can take as it cascades down the cliffs.

The heavy rainfall in the Western Ghats rejuvenates the Sharavathi River, transforming Jog Falls into a magnificent display of nature’s abundance. The increased water flow during this period enhances the grandeur of the falls, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.

Several viewpoints surround Jog Falls, allowing visitors to witness the cascades from different angles. The Watkins Platform, the main viewing area, provides a panoramic view of the falls and is easily accessible by a flight of stairs.

The Sharavathi River Valley Viewpoint and the British Bungalow Viewpoint offer alternative perspectives, unveiling a unique aspect of Jog Falls’ splendor. In Jog Falls, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” is a natural masterpiece sculpted by the forces of water and time. Each cascade contributes to a symphony that resonates with the rhythms of the Western Ghats.

As we witness the grandeur of Jog Falls, we are reminded of the raw beauty that nature generously bestows upon Karnataka, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking solace and inspiration in the lap of untamed landscapes.

10. Belur and Halebidu: Temples of Chalukyan Grandeur

Our final destination introduces us to the architectural wonders of Belur and Halebidu, showcasing the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. Admire the intricate carvings at Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu. These temples epitomize the artistic brilliance of Karnataka’s medieval history.

Our exploration through the architectural wonders of Karnataka leads us to the historic towns of Belur and Halebidu, where the Chalukyan legacy unfolds in the form of magnificent temples.

Belur and Halebidu, situated in the Hassan district, stand as living testimonials to the artistic brilliance and cultural richness of ancient Karnataka, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Chalukyan architecture.

Our journey begins in Belur, home to the Chennakeshava Temple, a masterpiece that epitomizes the finesse of Hoysala architecture. Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century, this temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu and is a testament to the Chalukyan dynasty’s patronage of the arts.

The friezes and sculptures narrate stories with such detail and precision that they appear alive, showcasing the sculptors’ mastery of their craft. The bracket figures supporting the temple’s ceiling testify to the sculptors’ creativity, featuring celestial beings, dancers, and musicians frozen in time.

The highlight of the Chennakeshava Temple is the Darpana Sundari, a sculpture of a lady with a mirror, symbolizing the artistic perfection achieved by the Hoysala artisans. The temple’s sanctum houses a glorious image of Lord Vishnu in the form of Chennakeshava, attracting devotees and art enthusiasts alike with its divine aura.

A short journey from Belur takes us to Halebidu, where the Hoysaleswara Temple awaits with its awe-inspiring architecture. Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana’s grandson, the Hoysaleswara of Lord Shiva is known for its carvings and colossal statues.

The exterior walls of the Hoysaleswara Temple depict an array of deities, celestial beings, and mythological scenes. The temple’s friezes showcase the intricacy of Hoysala artistry, with finely detailed carvings of elephants, lions, and mythical creatures.

The walls narrate tales from the epics, showcasing the cultural and spiritual significance embedded in every inch of stone.

One remarkable feature of the Hoysaleswara Temple is its two Nandi (bull) sculptures, each positioned on either side of its entrance. These monolithic Nandi statues, carved with exquisite detail, exemplify the Hoysala sculptors’ skill in transforming stone into lifelike forms.

While exploring Halebidu, visiting the Kedareshwara Temple is necessary for those seeking a quieter but equally mesmerizing experience. The Kedareshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, boasts exquisite carvings and a serene ambiance.

Though smaller in scale than the Hoysaleswara Temple, it holds its charm with delicately crafted sculptures, and a sense of tranquility pervades the temple complex.

Both Belur and Halebidu, located nearby, are easily accessible from major cities in Karnataka. 

In Belur and Halebidu, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” unfolds as a journey through the corridors of time, where every sculpture, frieze, and pillar tells a story of artistic excellence and cultural legacy.

As we bid farewell to Belur and Halebidu, the echoes of the Chalukyan era linger, paving the way for the next chapter in our exploration of enchanting tourist places in Karnataka.

11. Shravanabelagola: A Monumental Epitome of Jain Heritage

Our expedition through Karnataka takes us to the sacred town of Shravanabelagola, where the colossal monolithic statue of Lord Gommateshwara stands as an iconic symbol of Jain heritage.

Perched atop the Vindhyagiri Hill, this statue, also known as Bahubali, is a towering figure that reaches a height of 57 feet, making it one of the tallest free-standing statues in the world.

The ascent to the Vindhyagiri Hill involves a flight of stone-cut steps, offering pilgrims and visitors a contemplative journey.

The panoramic view from the hilltop adds to the spiritual experience, with the statue of Lord Gommateshwara presiding over the landscape.

The serene ambiance of Shravanabelagola and the profound sense of devotion make it a significant pilgrimage site for Jains and a cultural gem for all who seek a connection with Karnataka’s rich heritage.

12. Hampi: Ruins Amidst Breathtaking Landscapes

Our final destination in this journey through Karnataka is the World Heritage Site of Hampi. Once the assets of the Vijayanagara, Hampi is a sprawling archaeological complex that spans over 4,100 hectares.

The ruins of Hampi, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Tungabhadra River and the distinctive boulder-strewn landscapes, create a surreal setting that transports visitors to a bygone era.

The Virupaksha Temple, the Lotus Mahal, the Hazara Rama Temple, and the iconic stone chariot at the Vittala Temple are just a few of the architectural assets that spot the terrain of Hampi. The ruins narrate tales of a flourishing empire, intricate craftsmanship, and the cultural confluence that defined the Vijayanagara era.

Exploring Hampi’s ancient streets, bazaars, and royal quarters offers a glimpse into the empire’s grandeur. The sprawling landscapes and architectural remnants make Hampi a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and those seeking to unravel the mysteries of a lost city.

As our journey through Karnataka ends, the kaleidoscope of experiences from Belur and Halebidu to Shravanabelagola and Hampi forms a tapestry that encapsulates the state’s diverse cultural, historical, and natural wonders.

With its vibrant heritage, Karnataka is an open invitation to travelers to immerse themselves in the tales written in stone, the echoes of spiritual devotion, and the breathtaking landscapes that define this enchanting land.

13. Badami: A Tapestry of Rock-Cut Splendor

Our journey through Karnataka continues to Badami, a town renowned for its rock-cut cave temples showcasing the Chalukyan dynasty’s architectural brilliance. The Agastya Lake, enveloped by the red sandstone hills, adds a serene backdrop to this archaeological treasure, making Badami a must-visit destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of history and natural beauty.

At the heart of Badami’s allure are the exquisite Badami Cave Temples, a complex of rock-cut wonders that date back to the 6th century. 

Each cave temple narrates a story through its detailed carvings and sculptures.

Cave 1, dedicated to Lord Shiva, features a colossal sculpture of Nataraja, the cosmic dancer, and intricate depictions of episodes from Hindu mythology.

Cave 2, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, boasts a magnificent relief of Lord Vishnu in his Varaha incarnation, rescuing Goddess Earth from the depths of the cosmic ocean.

Cave 3, again dedicated to Lord Vishnu, displays scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, illustrating the timeless tales of heroism and morality.

Cave 4, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, represents the inclusive spirit of the Chalukyan kings, as they patronized Hindu and Jain cave temples.

The Agastya Lake is nestled in the shadows of the cave temples, whose tranquil waters reflect the timeless beauty of Badami’s rock-cut marvels. The lake, believed to have been created by the sage Agastya, adds a serene touch to the archaeological wonders surrounding its shores.

Visitors often find solace by the lake, contemplating the ancient structures mirrored in its still waters as if transported to a different era. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple showcases a fusion of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles, exemplifying the artistic versatility of the Chalukyan architects. 

A short journey from Badami leads to the Banashankari Temple, an ancient shrine that celebrates the divine feminine. The temple’s architecture, characterized by its symmetry and intricately carved pillars, exemplifies the Chalukyan style. Devotees and art enthusiasts alike are drawn to the spiritual ambiance and artistic richness that define Banashankari Temple.

Badami, one of the key tourist places in Karnataka, is easily accessible from major cities and towns. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is pivotal in preserving and maintaining the rock-cut monuments, ensuring that future generations can marvel at the Chalukyan legacy.

In the grand tapestry of Karnataka’s cultural heritage, Badami is a vivid thread woven with the skillful hands of ancient artisans. The rock-cut splendor of Badami, from the cave temples to the lakeside elegance, invites travelers to show the mysteries of the past and catch the constant beauty carved in stone.

As we explore the rock-cut marvels of Badami, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” takes on a new dimension, resonating with the echoes of history, devotion, and artistic grandeur.

14. Gokarna: Where Spirituality Meets Coastal Tranquility

Nestled along the Arabian Sea, Gokarna beckons travelers with its unique blend of spirituality and coastal charm. This quaint town, known for its sacred Mahabaleshwar Temple, attracts pilgrims and beach enthusiasts alike.

The pristine beaches of Gokarna, such as Kudle Beach and Om Beach, offer a serene retreat where travelers can unwind amidst the rhythmic waves and golden sands. Gokarna’s laid-back atmosphere and spiritual aura create a unique ambiance that invites introspection and relaxation.

As our journey through the kaleidoscopic landscapes of Karnataka unfolds, we find ourselves drawn to Gokarna. This coastal town seamlessly blends spirituality and the tranquil embrace of the Arabian Sea.

Gokarna, often called the “Land of Lord Shiva’s Ear,” is a destination that beckons pilgrims and seekers of seaside serenity, making it a quintessential addition to the array of tourist places in Karnataka.

At the heart of Gokarna lies the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This sacred site holds immense religious significance, drawing devotees who seek blessings and spiritual solace. The temple’s Dravidian architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, transports visitors to an era of devotion and artistic splendor.

The Mahabaleshwar Temple is home to the Atmalinga, a divine lingam that was believed to have been consecrated by Lord Ganapati. Pilgrims undertake a sacred journey to Gokarna to witness the magnificence of this lingam, which is said to represent the cosmic energy of Lord Shiva.

The temple’s sanctity and architectural allure create an atmosphere of reverence that captivates all who enter its hallowed halls.

Beyond the spiritual sanctum of Gokarna, the town unfolds its coastal charms with pristine beaches that invite travelers to unwind amidst nature’s splendor. Kudle Beach, with its golden sands and azure waters, offers a serene retreat where the rhythmic waves create a lullaby for the soul. 

The beach’s crescent form and the gentle waves lapping against its shores create an idyllic panorama. Om Beach is not just a scenic spot; it’s a canvas where nature’s artistry meets the vastness of the Arabian Sea, inviting beachgoers to connect with the elements and embrace the tranquility that defines Gokarna’s coastal allure.

Gokarna exudes a unique atmosphere where the sacred and the serene coexist harmoniously. The town’s narrow lanes, dotted with humble guesthouses and cafes, create an ambiance that resonates with the tranquil vibes of coastal living.

Visitors often find themselves immersed in the laid-back lifestyle, embracing the simplicity and authenticity that defines Gokarna’s charm.

While Mahabaleshwar Temple is the spiritual nucleus, Gokarna is adorned with several other temples that add to the town’s religious mosaic. The Maha Ganapati Temple, Uma Maheshwara Temple, and Bhadrakali Temple each contribute to Gokarna’s spiritual richness, inviting pilgrims on a sacred pilgrimage through the town’s sacred sites.

Koti Teertha, a sacred tank surrounded by temples, is believed to contain water from several holy rivers. Taking a dip in Koti Teertha is considered promising, reinforcing the spiritual aura permeating every corner of Gokarna.

As our journey through Gokarna concludes, the town is a testimony to the seamless blend of spirituality and coastal tranquility. The echoes of prayers at Mahabaleshwar Temple, the gentle lapping of waves on Kudle Beach, and the harmonious vibes that envelop Gokarna make it a unique destination in the array of tourist places in Karnataka.

Whether one seeks spiritual awakening or a peaceful escape by the sea, Gokarna extends an invitation to discover the beauty that arises when spirituality meets the serenity of the coast.

15. Bidar: A Citadel of History and Architecture

Our final stop in this kaleidoscopic journey through Karnataka is Bidar, a city steeped in history and architectural splendor. Bidar’s crowning jewel is the fort, a formidable structure withstood the test of time.

The fort encompasses various monuments, including the Rangin Mahal, Solah Khamba Mosque, and the Gagan Mahal, each narrating tales from the Bahmani and Barid Shahi dynasties. The intricate tile work, Persian influences, and the fusion of Indo-Islamic architecture make Bidar Fort a testament to the region’s cultural amalgamation.

Bidar’s historical significance, vibrant markets, and serene Nanak Jhira Sahib Gurudwara offer a multifaceted experience for those eager to delve into Karnataka’s rich tapestry of history and heritage.

Our expedition through Karnataka’s treasure troves of history and architectural splendor brings us to Bidar. This city unfolds as a captivating citadel steeped in a rich tapestry of bygone eras. Bidar’s historical significance and architectural marvels place it firmly on the map of must-visit tourist places in Karnataka.

At the heart of Bidar stands the formidable Bidar Fort, a monumental structure that has witnessed centuries of conquests, cultural exchanges, and the ebb and flow of history.

Originally built by the Bahmani Sultanate in the 15th century and later fortified by the Barid Shahi dynasty, Bidar Fort is a sprawling complex encompassing various structures that narrate the saga of Bidar’s past.

The imposing walls of Bidar Fort bear testament to the military prowess of its builders. The intricate bastions and watchtowers, strategically positioned along the fortifications, provide a glimpse into the defensive strategies employed during medieval times.

As visitors traverse the ancient pathways within the fort, the whispers of history resonate through the very stones beneath their feet.

Within the precincts of Bidar Fort lies the Rangin Mahal, a palace that stands out as a vibrant testament to the architectural finesse of the Barid Shahi rulers. True to its name, which translates to “Palace of Colors,” Rangin Mahal is adorned with intricate tile work, frescoes, and decorative elements that showcase the artisans’ mastery over their craft.

The palace walls are alive with scenes from courtly life, floral motifs, and geometric patterns, creating a mesmerizing tableau that transports visitors to a bygone era of luxury and artistic brilliance.

Adjacent to Rangin Mahal is the Solah Khamba Mosque, an architectural gem that reflects the religious tolerance and cultural synthesis prevalent during the Barid Shahi period. The mosque, supported by sixteen pillars, boasts an intricate blend of Persian and Indian architectural styles.

The grandeur of Solah Khamba Mosque lies in its architectural symmetry and the peaceful coexistence of diverse cultural influences within its sacred precincts.

Gagan Mahal, or the Heavenly Palace, is another Bidar Fort crown jewel. This regal structure served as the durbar hall for the Barid Shahi rulers, witnessing the grandeur of royal ceremonies and diplomatic events.

The architecture of Gagan Mahal exudes a certain majesty, with its arched doorways, ornate balconies, and spacious courtyards, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Bidar kings.

Beyond the confines of Bidar Fort, the city’s vibrant markets add a contemporary touch to its historical charm. Bidar’s bazaars showcase local craftsmanship, allowing visitors to explore traditional Bidriware, a unique metalwork art form that originated in the region.

Nanak Jhira Sahib Gurudwara, located on the outskirts of Bidar, holds spiritual significance. The Gurudwara is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, who visited Bidar during his travels.

The sacred spring within the Gurudwara believed to have been created by Guru Nanak’s touch, continues to draw pilgrims seeking solace and spiritual rejuvenation.

a) Karnataka’s Kaleidoscope of Wonders

As we conclude our extensive journey through must-see tourist places in Karnataka, it’s evident that the state is a kaleidoscope of diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural splendor.

From Bangalore’s bustling metropolis to Gokarna’s tranquil beaches, the regal ambiance of Mysuru to the historic ruins of Hampi, Karnataka unfolds as a treasure trove for avid travelers.

The highlighted keyword, “Tourist Places in Karnataka,” serves as an open invitation to explore the myriad wonders that this South Indian state has to offer.

Karnataka is more than a destination; it’s a symphony of experiences that resonate with the echoes of history, the beauty of nature, and the warmth of its people.

So, whether you are an architecture lover, a nature lover, a past buff, or someone seeking spiritual serenity, Karnataka calls out its array of tourist places in Karnataka waiting to be explored and cherished.

Pack your bags, embark on this virtual journey, and let Karnataka weave its enchanting spell on you. As we bring the curtains down on this odyssey through Karnataka’s multifaceted landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the echoes of the past, the vibrancy of the present, and the promise of the future linger in the air.

The highlighted keyword, “Tourist Places in Karnataka,” has guided this journey, unveiling the wonders that make this South Indian state a destination.

b) From Bangalore’s Urban Splendor to Hampi’s Historical Marvels and Gokarna’s Coastal Charms

From the bustling metropolis of Bangalore to the regal grandeur of Mysuru, the ancient ruins of Hampi, and the tranquil beaches of Gokarna, Karnataka presents a mosaic of diversity that captivates the soul.

Each chapter of this exploration has unfurled a different facet of the state, revealing its historical tapestry, cultural richness, and natural splendor.

Our journey commenced in the vibrant city of Bangalore, where the urban landscape seamlessly blends with cultural heritage.

The Garden City, also known as the Silicon Valley of India, boasts modern marvels like Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Vidhana Soudha alongside the historic Bangalore Palace.

The streets of M.G. Road and Brigade Road, pulsating with life, embody the city’s dynamic spirit. Heading southwest, we found ourselves in Mysuru, a royal enclave reverberating with tales of Wadiyars’ opulence.

T he Mysuru Palace, a masterpiece of architecture, is a testament to the bygone era of regal grandeur. The Dasara Festival, a celebration of cultural richness and festivity, transforms Mysuru into a kaleidoscope of colors and traditions.

Venturing into the northern realms of Karnataka, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi unveiled a treasure trove of historical marvels.

The Vijayanagara Empire’s remnants, including the Virupaksha Temple and the iconic stone chariot, transported us to an era of architectural splendor and artistic brilliance.

Heading westward, Gokarna beckoned with its unique blend of spiritual bliss and coastal charms.  Om Beach and Half Moon Beach provided serene retreats, while the Mahabaleshwar Temple added a touch of spirituality to the sandy shores.  Gokarna, a place where the rhythms of the sea harmonize with the chants of devotion, offered a tranquil escape.

The journey into the lush Western Ghats led us to Coorg, the Scotland of India, where sprawling coffee plantations, Abbey Falls, and Tadiandamol Peak painted a picture of nature’s embrace. Jog Falls, a breathtaking cascade of water in the rugged Western Ghats, allowed us to witness nature’s sheer force and beauty.

c) A Tapestry of Heritage, Architecture, Nature, and Culinary Delights

The exploration took an artistic turn in Badami, where cave temples carved into sandstone cliffs revealed a legacy of Chalukyan craftsmanship.

The Hoysala architecture of Belur and Halebidu showcased intricate carvings and artistic brilliance, transporting us to a bygone era of grand temples and exquisite sculptures.

Udupi, nestled along the Arabian Sea, offered a delectable journey through its cuisine and a spiritual sojourn at the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha. The pristine beaches of Malpe and the authentic Udupi vegetarian fare added to the charm of this coastal town.

The historic city of Bijapur, with its architectural marvels like Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rouza, and Jod Gumbaz, unfolded the tales of medieval triumphs and the architectural prowess of the Adil Shahi dynasty.

A thrilling detour to Jog Falls allowed us to witness this cascading wonder’s raw power and natural beauty in the Western Ghats.

The four distinct falls – Raja, Roarer, Rocket, and Rani – painted a spectacular canvas against the lush green backdrop.

In conclusion, Karnataka is a tapestry woven with threads of heritage, spirituality, nature, and modernity.

The tourist places in Karnataka we’ve explored collectively create a narrative that transcends time and beckons travelers to unravel the layers of this enchanting state.

So, whether captivated by ancient ruins, awe-inspired by architectural marvels, or seeking solace in nature’s embrace, Karnataka welcomes you with open arms.

Pack your curiosity, embark on this voyage of discovery, and let Karnataka reveal its splendors, one tourist place at a time.

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• Karnataka Tourism

Karnataka is rich in heritage, culture, traditions and history! Karnataka Tourisms has something in store for everybody, a complete tourist destination!

Witness the Unprecedented Architectural Grandeur.

Marvel at the Unique Ecosystem and Diverse Wildlife.

Take a Plunge in the Rich Culture- Fairs & Festivals.

• Best Time to Visit
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About Karnataka Tourism

Karnataka is located in the southwestern region of India. It is a rich state, rich in culture & heritage as well as the diversity of its landscape. Larger than life palaces fascinate you as much as the beaches & hill stations, all of which are an intrinsic part of Karnataka tourism places. It attracts sightseeing lovers as much as adventure enthusiasts. It also boasts a glorious past which is evident in its forts, palaces and ancient towns, one example of which is the illustrious Vijayanagara Empire. But Karnataka’s fascination also extends to its hill stations which are major tourist attractions like Chikmagalur, quiet relaxed beaches and temples like Virupaksha and Vitthala, that stand as a testimony to the architectural perfection achieved in the past. This is why a holiday in Karnataka is a getaway to complete delight, rife with adventures, sightseeing and entertainment!.

Bear witness to its glorious past!

Karnataka is a place of million stories that are told through its forts, palaces, and ancient towns. They bear testimony to its glorious past. A past shaped by powerful dynasties, kings and empires. A heritage tour of Karnataka consists of visiting its famous palaces like the Mysore Palace, Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace. There are forts like Gulbarg, Raichur, Mirjan & Bidar. Each of these forts has played a key role in its history & are architectural splendours as well. And then there’s Hampi, the shining jewel of the Vijayanagara Empire. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring its temples, streets and bazaars is like going back in time. Other famous heritage sites are Badami, Pattakadal and Aihole.

Spot tigers, elephants, sloth bears, birds & other wildlife!

Karnataka tourism also boasts a rich wildlife. Spot Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, sloth bears, leopards, or reptiles and birds during your wildlife safari. It has some of the most famous national parks, bird sanctuaries and wildlife sanctuaries. Some of the famous national parks & wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka are Bandipur, Nagarhole, Someshwara, Bhimgad & Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary. Spot birds of all shapes, colours and sizes at bird sanctuaries like Bonal, Attiveri, Bonal and Hornbills of Dandeli.

Lovely hill stations tucked in the Western Ghats!

You can escape to the hill stations during your holidays in Karnataka for a change. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, run through Karnataka. These ghats contain the most beautiful hill stations in India. You come across trekking trails, waterfalls, coffee plantations, temples and wildlife. One of the hill stations, Chikmagalur, was the first place in India where coffee was introduced. Agumbe is famous for being the site where “Malgudi Days”, a popular TV serial, was shot. Other popular hill stations in Karnataka are Madikeri, Chikkamagaluru, Kodachadri, Nandi Hills and Kogadu.

Quiet, tranquil, relaxed beaches!

The beaches in Karnataka are different from those in Goa. Its coastline stretches to 320 kilometers with more than 40 beaches. Not by the topography so much, as the vibe and environment. Most of them are quiet, many secluded. They are ideal for those who want to enjoy a quiet day at the beach. Perhaps the most famous of these is the OM Beach. Shaped like an OM, it offers breathtaking views of the sunset. Jet ski, banana boat rides and parasailing are some of the water sports activities available. Panambur, Someshwara, Tannirbhavi and Ottinene are other famous beaches in Karnataka.

Parasailing to trekking, options for adventure abound!

Karnataka is a hub of adventure tourism. Scuba diving, white water rafting, rock climbing and trekking offer adventure enthusiasts the adrenaline rush. Skydiving in Mysore, rock climbing in Ramanagara, microlight flying in Bangalore & scuba diving in Netrani Island are immensely popular. Battling the rapids at Bheemeshwari and parasailing at Malpe & Gokarna beaches are also famous adventure activities. Trekking is a highly sought after adventure tourism activity in Karnataka. Trekkers have several options to choose from. Some of the popular treks are Kudremukh, Kumara Parvatha, Narasimha Parvata, Kanoor, Kodachadri and Coorg Plantations.

A profound spiritual experience awaits you!

Hindu, Muslim, Jain, Sikh and Christian places of worship can be found in Karnataka. Spiritual enlightenment is a major reason for visiting this southern state. It is mind boggling to think that there are more than 34,000 temples.

Temples : Many of the temples in Karnataka were built in the 10th century and are dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will come across different styles of temples. For example, the Hoysalas built the temples on raised complex star shaped platforms. The Badami Chalukyas, on the other hand, were masters of rock cut caves and temples. Two of the most famous temples in Karnataka are Virupaksha and Vitthala. Both of them are located in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the famous temples are Omkareshwara, Someshwara, Shri Kadri Manjunatha and Marikamba.

Mosques : There are an equal number of mosques in Karnataka which evoke admiration with their architecture. Many of these were built during the reigns of the Bahmani & Deccan Sultanates. Jama Masjid, Jamia Masjid, Ek Minar Mosque & Zanana Masjid.

Churches : The churches in Karnataka are some of the oldest in India. They belong to Roman Catholics, Syrian, Mar Thoma, Protestant and other Christain communities.

Jain Temples : There are also a lot of Jain temples in Karnataka, which is not surprising. Jainism enjoyed royal patronage in Karnataka under various historic kingdoms, from Chalukyas to Kadambas. One of the most famous Jain temples is located in Shravanabelagola in Hassan district. It consists of a massive 18 feet tall black granite statue of Gomteshwara, the first Tirthankara.

Buddhist Monasteries : Buddhism also enjoys a strong presence. The settlements at Mundgod in Uttara Kannada & Bylakuppe in Mysore are very “Tibet-like.” Some of the famous monasteries are Namdroling, Bylakuppe and Manjunatha in Kandri.

Gurudwaras : There are two famous gurudwaras in Karnataka. One is Gurudwara Nanak Jhira and the other is Gurudwara Guru Nanak Prachar Sabha. Of these, Gurudwara Nanak Jhira in Bidar holds a special significance. It is associated with a major legend.

Attend the festivals to observe its rich culture & traditions!

Like any other state, Karnataka has its fair share of festivals. Almost all of them originated under a certain ruler or dynasty. Whether it’s the Kambala Buffalo Race or the Hampi Dance Festival, every festival offers a different experience. The rich culture, customs and traditions of the different communities are reflected in the festivals. During Deepavali and Dussehra, the entire state is reinvigorated with energy and spirituality. Other major festivals are Chalukya Utsav, Hampi Utsav, Pattadakal Dance Festival, Mysuru Dasara, Shravana Belagola Mahamastakabhisheka, Kambala and Vitla Pindi.

Come across the rich history of Karnataka!

In the museums of Karnataka, you will come across rare manuscripts, sculptures, statues, art and artefacts. You get to have a close look at its past, filled with rulers, dynasties and empires. Most of the museums are located in Mysore and Bangalore. Some of the must visit museums in Karnataka are Folklore Museum, Government Museum, HAL Heritage Center and Aerospace Museum, Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology.

Tangy, spicy cuisine, and the filter coffee!

The richness of Karnataka is reflected in its cuisine too. Different parts of Karnataka have their own special cuisines. For example, dishes like Goli Baje and Mangalore Fish Curry are famous in Coastal Karnataka. The famous Mysore Pak, Thatte Idli, Ragi Mudde and Puliyogare are relished in South Karnataka. While visiting North Karnataka, Raagi Ambali, Jolada Rotti, Dharwad Peda and Belagavi Kunda are dishes you should not miss. Coffee is a major beverage for the people of Karnataka. Filter coffee is special in its own way and is available in all the restaurants and high end restaurants.

Top 10 Most Visited Tourist Destinations of Karnataka

Coorg : Coorg is a famous tourist hill station in Karnataka. There are three wildlife sanctuaries and a famous national park called Nagarhole. There are several options for sightseeing.

Halebeedu : The town of Halebeedu was once the 2nd capital of the Hoysalas. The temples which stand today are specimens of architectural excellence. These are Kedareshwara & Hoysaleshwara.

Mysore : It was once the capital of Tipu Sultan, known as the Tiger of Mysore. Some of its tourist attractions are Mysore Palace, Devaraja Market, Crawford Hall and Jagan Mohan Palace.

Srirangapatna : Visit Srirangapatna for its royal past. It served as the capital of various kings and dynasties. Visit palaces, temples and forts here during your sightseeing tour.

Agumbe : Those who have read Malgudi Days will be familiar with Agumbe. A high-altitude village, it’s home to India’s online Rainforest Research Station. There are several sightseeing sites.

Shravanabelagola : Shravanabelagola is a famous Jain pilgrimage destination in Karnataka. This is believed to be the place where Chandragupta Maurya breathed his last. The most famous tourist attraction is Bhagawan Bahubali Statue.

Bijapur : Bijapur was founded by the Chalukyas during the 10-11th centuries. It is great for those who want to explore historical sites. Some of the attractions are Bijapur Fort & Jama Masjid.

Somnathpur : Visit Somnathpur for the fabulous structures built during the reign of the Hoysalas. You will come across the most spectacular temples here.

Bengaluru : Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, is dotted with high tech industries. Go shopping, visit a wildlife sanctuary, spend some time in one of its many parks or hangout at the glitzy malls.

Udupi : Boasting one of the longest walls in the world, Kumbhalgarh is the second-largest fort in India. This impressive fort is not to be missed witnessing in Rajasthan.

Bandipur National Park : Bandipur National Park is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Spot Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants and a wide variety of bird species. Rosewood & sandalwood are found in plenty here.

Best Time for Visiting Karnataka for Holidays

Winters are the best time to visit Karnataka. During the months between November to March, the weather is cool and pleasant. The hill stations enjoy pleasant weather throughout the year. During the summers, it can get extremely hot and humid.

A Quick Information About the State – Karnataka

Best selling karnataka tour packages.

6 Nights - 7 Days

Classical Tour of Karnataka

4 Nights - 5 Days

Bangalore Mysore Ooty Tour

3 Nights - 4 Days

Coorg Sightseeing Tour

Coorg Tour with Kabini

Bandipur Tour with Ooty

5 Nights - 6 Days

Bangalore Mysore Nagarhole Tour

12 Nights - 13 Days

Karnataka Wildlife Safari Tour

Chikmagalur Temple Package

Bangalore - Chitradurga - Hampi Tour

Mesmerizing Western Ghats with Mysore

• Best Time to Visit Karnataka

Summer Season in Karnataka

Summers in Karnataka last from March to May. Temperature ranges between 35°C to 38°C.

Monsoon Season in Karnataka

Monsoon arrives in May and lasts till October. Temperature ranges between 32°C to 28°C.

Winter Season in Karnataka

Winters in Karnataka start from November and last till February. The temperature ranges between 21°C to 25°C. The weather during this time is extremely pleasant.

Best Places to Visit in Karnataka

Hampi is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka for its grand, spectacular and historic. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are temples, elephant stables and other attractions.

Benagluru, the capital of Karnataka, is counted among the best places to visit for showing the modern side of Karnataka. It is dotted with multiplexes, hangouts and a vibrant nightlife.

It is one of the best hill stations not just in Karnataka but also in South India. It’s famous for its wildlife sanctuaries. There is a national park called Nagarhole.

Hill Stations

Mysore is famous for once being the capital of Tipu Sultan. What makes it count among the best tourist places are Mysore Palace, Devaraja Market, Jahan Mohan Palace and Crawford Hall.

Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is one of the best places in Karnataka to spot its rich wildlife. Spot various animals like the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant and a wide variety of bird species.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Karnataka

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once the capital of the powerful and glorious Vijayanagara Empire. There are elephant stables, chariots & two fabulous temples.

Gokarna Beach

Visit the Gokarna Beach to enjoy banana boat rides, dolphin spotting and fishing. The views of the sunset really win your heart. The beach is shaped like the Hindu religious symbol - OM.

Jog Falls bring you face to face with the intensity of nature. The waterfall is 253 meters high, and is the 2nd highest plunge waterfall in Asia. Monsoons are the best time to visit it.

Mulliyana Giri

Mulliyana Giri is the highest peak in the Western Ghats, which stretch from Gujarat to Tamil Nadu. It is avidly sought after by trekkers. The entire trek will take you 4 hours & consists of 4 kilometers.

St. Mary’s Island

St. Mary’s Island is famous for its unique salt rock formations. The beach here is made of shells, not of sand. To reach the island, you will have to swim for almost 5 minutes.

Gudavi Bird Sanctuary

This one is especially for bird lovers looking to enjoy birding. Some of the birds which you can spot are white headed crane, brahminy kite and black headed crane.

Gangadeshwara Temple

A visual spectacle awaits you at Gangadeshwara Temple during Makar Sankranti. On this day, a ray of light flashes through the horns of the stone bull and falls directly on the deity inside the cave!

Sada Waterfall

Sada Waterfall is an offbeat waterfall located in deep forests of Western Ghats in Begalvi . It falls from a height of 200 meters. Trekking here is quite famous.

Murudeshwara

Visit the temple town of Murudeshwara to see the Chalukya & Kadamba sculptures. Its main attraction is a statue of Lord Shiva.

Top Things to Do in Karnataka

Karnataka is a treasure trove of heritage and grandeur. The popular heritage sites are Hampi, Aihole, Badami, Halebeedu and Chandravalli.

Try out the tangy, spicy, sweet cuisines of Karnataka. Some of the famous dishes in Karnataka are Patrode, Mangalore Fish Curry, Maddur Vada, Mysore Pak, Guliyappa and filter coffee.

Religious Sites

There are spectacular temples like Virupaksha and Vitthala. You come across mosques which are equally impressive. There are Jain temples, churches and gurudwaras too.

There are opportunities in Karnataka for trekking white water rafting, scuba diving, mountain biking and micro flight flying.

Karnataka is extremely rich in wildlife. There are famous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks like Someshwara, Bhimgad, Daroji Sloth Bear, Kudremukh and Nagarhole.

The beaches of Karnataka are quiet and calm. They are ideal for those who just want to enjoy the views, listen to the sounds of the waves and just enjoy the ambiance.

Observe the rare manuscripts, artefacts, sculptures and other antiques at the famous museums in Karnataka. Some of them are Folklore Museum, Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology and Mysore Rail Museum.

Attend the famous festivals in Karnataka like Deepavali, Dussehra, Gowri Habba, Kaveri Sankaramana, Mysuru Dasara, Hampi Utsav and Chalukya Utsav.

How to Reach Karnataka?

The major railway station in Karnataka is Bangalore Railway Station. It runs trains to all the major cities of India.

There are two airports that operate flights to and from Karnataka. One is the Bengaluru International Airport and the other is the Mangalore International Airport. Bangalore Airport is connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Hyderabad.

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates government transport in Karnataka. The National Highway runs for almost 3,973 kilometers. Smaller towns are connected by state highways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. when is the best time to visit karnataka for holidays.

The best time to visit Karnataka is during the winter season, from November to February. March is also a good time, since the weather is pleasant. It can get quite hot and humid during the summers.

Q. What is the nearest domestic & International airport for Karnataka?

The nearest domestic airport is Mangalore Airport, located about 156 kilometers from Coorg. The nearest international airport is Bangalore International Airport, located about 35.4 kilometers.

Q. Is Karnataka safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Karnataka is safe for solo female travellers.

Q. What is Karnataka famous for?

Karnataka is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wildlife, hill stations, Jog Waterfalls, Mysore Palace, dishes like Mysore Pak and Filter Coffee and umpteen opportunities for adventure.

Q. How many minimum days are required for a Karnataka tour?

It takes a minimum of 5 days for a proper tour of Karnataka.

Q. What are the major festivals of Karnataka tourism?

The major festivals of Karnataka tourism are Deepavali, Gombe Habba, Gowri Habba, Karnataka Rajyothsava Day, Hampi Festival, Karaga, Pattadakal Dance Festival, Kambala Festival and Ugadi.

Q. What are the top destinations for family holidays in Karnataka?

The top destinations for family holidays in Karnataka are Hampi, Gokarna, Coorg, Bijapur, Nandi Hills, Mysore and Shrirangapatna.

Q. What are the best destinations for a honeymoon tour in Karnataka?

The best destinations for a honeymoon tour in Karnataka are Coorg, Mangalore, Kabini, Gokarna, Kudremukh, Badami and Halebeedu.

Q. What are the top must visit pilgrimage sites in Karnataka?

The top must visit pilgrimage sites in Karnataka are Shravanabelagola, Murudeshwar, Gokarna, Srirangapatna, Virupaksha and Vitthala Temples.

Q. What is the best time to visit National parks & wildlife sanctuaries of Karnataka?

Summers is a good time to visit the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Karnataka. The animals visit the water hotels with a greater frequency during this time. You can enjoy sightseeing during the winters too, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Why Choose TMI for Karnataka?

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We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India).

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Karnataka Essential Information

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Where to Stay in Karnataka?

There are a variety of staying options that are available in Karnataka. These range from heritage hotels and beach hotels to resorts. The accommodation options range from luxury to mid sized to budget, depending on your preferences. Wildlife resorts are also another option that you can consider. You can feel the excitement of staying close to nature and all the action.

Major Activities for Tourists in Karnataka

Karnataka is a complete destination. That is because it has everything, from wildlife, adventure, heritage, beaches to religious sites. Some of the most visited heritage sites in India like Hampi, are located in Karnataka. There are tranquil beaches where you can simply sit, relax and enjoy the nearby surroundings. Adventure enthusiasts will find a lot to do here. There are opportunities for trekking, water rafting, rock climbing and mountain biking. You could visit the several museums to explore rare artefacts, artworks and antiques. Karnataka is also home to several hill stations whose natural richness will win your heart. During your vacation in Karnataka, you should definitely try out its cuisines. You will find the filter coffee almost everywhere you go. Karnataka is large, both by its size and tourism opportunities it offers.

A few tips before visiting Karnataka

• Carry your identity proof with you at all times.
• Leave your footwear outside before entering the temples.
• Wear appropriate clothing while visiting religious places.
• Nudity is not permitted on the beaches, waterfalls or any public areas.
• If you plan on visiting Karnataka during the summers, carry plenty of sunscreen lotion.

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Quick Links to Important Information in Karnataka

Karnataka travel information at a glance, about karnataka.

• People & Culture of Karnataka
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Karnataka Destinations

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Karnataka Tourism Packages

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Karnataka Holidays by Interest

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• Wildlife Safari
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Karnataka Attractions

• Bengaluru Attractions
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Hotels in Karnataka

• Hotels in Bengaluru
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• Hotel in Mangalore
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• Hotels in Hubli-Dharwad

Other Imp Links

• How to Reach Karnataka
• Karnataka Tourism Map
• Karnataka Summer Weather
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• Karnataka Winter Weather

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

Catch a flight/train back to your home.

Are you from Karnataka? Have you been to Karnataka? Are you planning to visit Karnataka? Do let me know what you feel about the itinerary in the comments section below.

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Tourist Places To Visit In Karnataka

A confluence of myriad cultures and histories intertwined with unadulterated and timeless beauty makes Karnataka one of the most coveted destinations for tourists. From mist-covered hills to virgin beaches, from cities that have stopped in time to cities where time is rushing to keep pace with modernisation, Karnataka has it all. A place where the past and present co-exist peacefully, Karnataka is waiting to be explored and savoured. From Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore to Hampi , Coorg and Gokarna , listed below are the tourist places that you must visit in Karnataka.

Occupying the pride of place as the capital of Karnataka, Bangalore ( Bengaluru ) is undoubtedly one of the fastest growing cities in India . It is a melting pot of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, represented by people from all parts of the country. The home to some of the best educational institutions and colleges, Bangalore has acquired the tag of student city and has also emerged as the software hub of the country. It is a young, vibrant city offering all modern amenities like malls, pubs, theatres, cafes, galleries etc. The fast-paced modernisation however, has not wiped out the history of the city, traces of which can be found scattered across Bangalore.

• 10 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Bangalore

Also known as the Palace City of India , Mysore is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka. Situated at the base of the Chamundi Hills, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the country with Mysore Palace being one of the most visited monuments. From botanical and zoological gardens to temples, churches and palaces, Mysore has lots to offer. Located around 143 kilometres from Bangalore, it is easily accessible by road. 

• 8 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Mysore

Located en route from Kerala to Goa , Mangalore is a popular maritime city of Karnataka. Against the winds of rapid change Mangalore has been able to retain its old world charm. The meandering streets lined with coconut trees, terracotta-tiled roofed houses, the breathtaking beaches, some remarkable churches and temples and spicy food allows its guests a moment of much needed tranquillity. This however does in no way overshadow Mangalore’s commercial importance or its role as Karnataka’s major port for the export of spices, cashew and coffee. 

• Mangalore Tourism And Travel Guide

Hampi, Aihole, Pattadakal, Bijapur

Located within few kilometres of each other, these world famous heritage sites can leave you spellbound by their utter magnificence.

The once capital of the Vijaynagar Empire that ruled the Deccan between 14 th and 16 th century A.D. Hampi even in its ruins today, is majestic, charismatic and alluring. Towering over the extraordinary landscape that greets the eye, the group of monuments at Hampi, is a repository of artistic and architectural wealth unparalleled in its spread and magnificence.

The remnants of the Chalukyan dynasty at Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal boasts of some of the finest specimens of temple architecture that dominate the architectural style in South India . The groups of temples are exquisite displays of craftsmanship and living testimonies of the perseverance of the artists.

Bijapur boasts of some fascinating monuments of Islamic style which blossomed during the reign of the Bahmani Sultanates which lasted between 15 th and 17 th centuries. The most famous is the Gol Gumbaz which has the largest dome in the world after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome . 

• 13 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Hampi

Belur, Halebeedu, Shravanabelagola

This forms Karnataka’s Golden Triangle . Halebeedu and Belur are the home to some of the best examples of Hoysala architecture. The immeasurable beauty and sheer excellence of workmanship that marks the architecture of this period has survived centuries.  The intricate carvings of the Chennakesava temple at Belur are breathtakingly beautiful and a testimony to the degree of the artistic brilliance attained during the reign of the Hoysala rulers.

Shravanabelagola is a Jain pilgrimage destination of much repute. The 57 feet tall monolithic statue of Gommateshvara located here is the world’s tallest monolithic stone statue. 

• Belur Tourism And Travel Guide

Coorg is stuff dreams are made of. This picturesque hill station located 256 kilometres from Bangalore is a hedonist’s paradise with mouth-watering food, hot coffee, vibrant culture and mesmerising landscape. Its closeness to the Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp and Rajiv Gandhi National Park makes it impossible to give Coorg a miss.

• Coorg Tourism And Travel Guide

For all those who want to enjoy solitude far from the madding crowd, Gokarna is their dream destination. With its alluring white open beaches and clear blue sea, Gokarna is hard to resist. Sitting on a cliff watching the sun setting on the sea leaves a lingering impression. It has five beaches separated by cliffs, each offering a spectacular view of the Arabian Sea. For the more adventurous there are various water sports to indulge in coupled with some heavenly seafood.

Karnataka is a traveler’s delight. From historical sites to nature, beaches and wild life sanctuaries to adventure sports and spirituality, exploring and unravelling the various moods of Karnataka can become a life-changing experience.

• 9 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Gokarna

Otherwise Wayanad is an idyllic town in Kerela, but its close proximity to Karnataka makes it an ideal getaway when visiting the state of elephants too. Wayanad is only  37 km away from the Kerala -Karnataka border if you take  NH766. It is a rural place for all intents and purposes, home to a plethora of natural wildlife, vegetation and waterfalls. It has lush forests coupled with animas like tigers, leopards, egrets and Asiatic giant elephants. You can visit ancient neolithic caves of Edakkal or enjoy a trek and picnic at Ambukuthi Hills, there is no dearth of jungle life here. Another famous place to visit around is the Soochipura (needle-like) waterfalls.

• Wayanad Tourism And Travel Guide

Madikeri , a small hill station town in the lap of the Western Ghats, is a famous getaway for locals of Karnataka as well as tourists flocking to the state. Known for some magnificent views from Raja's Seat, rice and paddy fields, lush forests and valleys, Madikeri is a weekend trip you must plan. The main attraction here is the Madikeri Fort, followed by the  Omkareshwar Temple (Shaivite temple as suggested by the name), Abbey Falls and the famous Kamakshi Temple.

• Madikeri (Mercara) Tourism And Travel Guide

Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park , or also referred to as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a delight for nature and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Karnataka. It is a wildlife reserve and embraces the conservational culture to protect tigers, birds and elephants among other animals. The park is a part of the greater Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and you will be enthralled by the scents of fresh nilgiri leaves wafting your way from the cluster of jungles. Among these there are also sturdy teak trees and sandalwood trees to bring you some cool, fragrant winds even in sultry summers. Visit the national park in winters, preferably to get the best sightings of animals.

• Nagarhole National Park Tourism And Travel Guide

Badami , also locally caled Vatapi, is a part of Bagalkot district in Karnataka and was once the capital of Chalukyas (AD 540-757). That piece of trivia makes Badami a hub for old, rock-cut temples and ancient structures dating back from that empire. The town boasts of the Badami set of temples, the Badami Cave Temple and Agasthya Lake to tour when you visit. The Cave temple is one very significant tourist haunt and a must-visit on your itinerary, considering its carvings and historic rocks each telling a story.

• Badami Tourism And Travel Guide

Settled on the banks of River Tungabhadra, Hospet is a part of the Ballari district and renowned for its proximity to Hampi . You must visit the Tungabhadra Dam as well as the beautiful ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire nearby. Other places to visit in Hospet are Virupaksha Temple, Vithala Complex, Matanga Hill and the Monkey Temple. People usually also like to club a trip of Hospet with Hampi nearby.

• Hospet Tourism And Travel Guide

Udupi is a city in the lap of the Western Ghats, quite close to Mangalore . It falls on the Arabian Sea side and hence is fringed by both — the mountains and the sea. That’s what’s unique and beautiful about this place. It contributes to Udupi’s scenic beauty, all those virgin forests of the mountains and the beaches kissing the sea. Udupi is also known for its delicious food, so much so that generic South Indian restaurants around the country are named after it. You can also visit temples, ancient islands, beaches and waterfalls. St Mary's island nearby is also a great fun place to explore.

Chikmagalur

This cute name means ‘town of the young daughter’ as it was the dowry of the Chief of Sakrepatna’s younger daughter. With this trivia and coffee estates spreading wild eternal fragrance in all its corners, Chikmagalur is mesmerising to say the least. With lush forest covers of Mullayangiri mountains and temples like Amruteshwar, Vidyashankara, Sharadamba etc, Chikmagalur is pious as well as adventurous. The hill station is also home to sightseeing spots like Shankar Falls and Jhari Waterfalls, Kudremukh National Park, Bhadra Dam, Mullayanagiri etc.

• Chikmagalur Tourism And Travel Guide

Shimoga is perched on the bank of River Tungabhadra, right in the heart of Karanataka. It is known for its palm trees and thick green forests that lead you into mysterious waterfalls. The culture, religion and history of Shimoga is also among some of the most interesting around. You can visit Suvarna Samskruthi Bhavana or Karnataka Sangha to explore the culture, art and traditions of this town. Yakshagana is one of the most famous dances and drama forms here that is also famous worldwide. You can enjoy the natural beauty as well as the manmade art forms here, all at once!

Rocks and forests, that’s what Dandeli is! It is such a thrilling place that they call it the adventure capital of the South. Perched at 1551 feet, Dandeli is home to many a trekking trails, hiking routes, thick diverse flora and fauna as well as caves and temples. You can enjoy some water sports in River Kali, visit the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, visit Kavla caves and Ulavi Mandir, and go whitewater rafting on an especially rainy day. There is also a Natural Jacuzzi that unknots all stress points in your body. 

Summer and monsoon vacation enthusiasts, Kabini is such a perfect place for you. The beauty, the fauna, the wildlife, the sheer ambience of nature here is rejuvenating. Camping, bonfires, adventure, wildlife watching and more is coveted here. Explore the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, check out the Kabini Dam and hog on staples like akki roti, sambhar-vada, bisibel bhaat etc with their special fried papadams and filter coffees.

Tea estates, coffee plantations, spices and orchards — Sakleshpur is all of these and more. The economy of this little hill town is built on its fresh produce of these essentials. That also makes it an attractive tourist hub. People come to stroll around the estates and see the picking, harvesting, production processes that go into bringing us our favourite beverages and spices. You can visit this town for the ancient Manjarabad Fort that is made in the shape of a star, the Sakleshwara temple that is more than 600 years old, Bisle View Point, Dodda Betta and Pushpagiri. Treks are very highly coveted in this area, especially the Railway Bridge Trekking.

The temple capital city of Karnataka, this is one of the highest coveted pilgrimage destinations around. It is often chosen by history and architecture lovers. Hassan is 187 km away from Bangalore and hosts the Hoysala Era structures of temples, palaces, ruins and much more. Sculptures like the Bahubali Statue is very famous here, as are the dams and forest reserves and theme parks. Visit the Hoysala Temples, Koravangala Temple, Ishvara Temple and Kedareshwara Temple. Many of these are as old as the 12th Century. Kayaking, river rafting and swimming in Tungabhadra make for other exciting activities, while you can enjoy bonfires on Kabbaligere Hill after a long trek.

The village where Sholay was shot, Ramanagara shot to fame in this way. Today it is a hub of tourism that is a mix of nature enthusiasts as well as Bollywood buffs. The natural beauty of Ramanagara is blessed in the way Krishnagiri, Shiva Ramagiri and Somagiri mountain peaks surround it. Silk rearing is practised here, making it one of the richest silk cities in the world probably. The rolls of green meadows and hills hide the locations of the magnum opus Sholay, including the fictional village of Ramgarh and Gabba Singh’s hideout. You can visit the Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary, Janapada Loka Folk World and Mekedatu when here.

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Places to Visit in Karnataka

Discover the beauty of Karnataka with its Bangalore, Coorg, Chikmagalur, Mysore, Nandi Hills. Explore the top places in the state, including Vidyarthi Bhavan, Bannerghatta Biological Park, The Fishermans Wharf Bangalore, Byg Brewski Brewing Company, Discover the City on a Bicycle, and immerse yourself in a memorable travel

1 Bangalore, Karnataka

Bustling Cultural and IT Hub of Karnataka

Popularly known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is a metropolitan city dotted with glitzy skyscrapers and is the bustling technology hub of Karnataka.The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, sprawling parks, quaint cafes, shopping arcades and delicious South Indian food.

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2 Coorg, Karnataka

Scenic Hill Station in Karnataka

Relax in the lap of nature in Coorg, where aromatic coffee and spice plantations, lush green surroundings and colonial houses welcome you.

3 Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Lush Green Hill Station in Karnataka

A hill station at the foothills of the Mullayanagiri peak in the Western Ghats in Karnataka, Chikmagalur entices with trekking trails, coffee plantations, rivers, waterfalls, temples and wildlife.

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4 Mysore, Karnataka

The Cultural Capital of Karnataka

The City of Palaces, Mysore revels in its vibrant history, and rich arts and culture. It allures tourists with its grand palaces, majestic temples, and landscaped gardens.

5 Nandi Hills, Karnataka

Ancient Hill Fortress in Karnataka

Perched at a height of 4,851 feet above sea level, Nandi Hills are the former summer retreat of Tipu Sultan. This ancient hill fortress is scattered with monuments and shrines.

6 Gokarna, Karnataka

Scenic Temple & Beach Town in Karanataka

Home to pristine beaches bordered by swaying palms and renowned Hindu shrines, Gokarna is an unspoilt temple town in Karnataka. It lies close to popular tourist destinations like Goa, Mangalore and Hubli.

7 Mangalore, Karnataka

Karnataka's Serene Port City

With the azure Arabian Sea on one side and the lush Western Ghats on the other, Mangalore is a popular destination for a laid-back holiday.

8 Hampi, Karnataka

Open Air Museum in Karnataka

The renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and the once-magnificent capital of the Vijayanagara Empire; Hampi attracts backpackers and pilgrims in equal numbers due to its intriguing ruins of forts and temples.

9 Kabini, Karnataka

Haven for Wildlife Admirers & Adventurers

Once a famous hunting ground under the British raj, Kabini boasts a diverse flora and fauna. Nagarhole National Park is the star attraction here, providing refuge to many endangered species.

10 Murudeshwar, Karnataka

Quiet Beach Town by the Arabian Sea

Home to the worlds second tallest Shiva statue, Murudeshwar is a scenic coastal town overlooking the Arabian Sea. This spiritual town also offers amazing scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities.

11 Sakleshpur, Karnataka

Hidden Temple Town in the Western Ghats

Known as the Switzerland of Karnataka, Sakleshpur is known for its coffee, areca and cardamom plantations. It is about three hours from the Mangalore airport and boasts of spectacular sceneries.

12 Udupi, Karnataka

Lord Krishna's Final Resting Place

A coastal town in Karnataka, Udupi is a hidden gem with pristine beaches, divine temples, rich heritage and cultural traditions that add to its charm.

13 Bidar, Karnataka

Historical Treasure Trove in Karnataka

Housing historical ruins and monuments reflecting Islamic and Hindu architecture, Bidar is tucked in the north-eastern part of Karnataka. It is a paradise for religious people and history lovers!

14 Hoskote, Karnataka

Incredible South Indian town

Hoskote is a popular South Indian town that is barely 27 kilometres from Bangalore, the country's capital. This city features beautiful lakes, well-known landmarks, religious temples and much more. Hoskote's many attractions give guests a wide variety of exciting opportunities. However, if you ever find yourself at Hoskote, Karnataka, you just must stop by the renowned Hoskote Lake and the temple of Devarayana Durga. This picturesque tourist destination features a natural environment is stunning.

15 Dandeli, Karnataka

A Wildlife Enthusiast's Paradise

Dandeli is seated on the banks of Kali river in north Karnataka. A great natural retreat, its renowned for its dense forests, serene trails, exquisite wildlife and limestone caves.

16 Nagarhole, Karnataka

Premier Tiger Reserve in Karnataka

Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Nagarhole, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is known for its beautiful waterfalls, streams, lakes, hills, and rich flora and fauna.

17 Belgaum, Karnataka

City at the Foothills of Western Ghats

Surrounded by enticing green hills and charming natural beauty, Belgaum lies nestled in the northern part of the Western Ghats range. It is home to historical forts, majestic waterfalls, and a number of Jain and Hindu temples, making it a wholesome tourist attraction.

18 Kolar, Karnataka

Pleasant city in Karnataka

You can reach the city of Kolar in Karnataka by covering around 55 kilometres from the capital city of Bengaluru. The city's gold mines and dairy industry have made it famous throughout history. At the moment, it is one of the largest milk producers in the world and the largest in South India. Once known as the sacred Avantika-Kshetra, this ancient settlement is renowned for its many places of worship. The districts of Bangalore Rural and Chikballapur are to its west, Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh to its east, and Krishnagiri and Vellore in Tamil Nadu to its south.

19 Hubli, Karnataka

The Mini Mumbai of India

Hubli, officially known asHubballi, is the fastest-growing city in North Karnataka and offers dazzling views that bring you close to nature. It attracts tourists worldwide with its ancient temples, exotic sceneries and rich heritage.

20 Manipal, Karnataka

Popular University Town

Located less than 15 minutes from the city of Udupi along the Malabar Coast, Manipal is famous for its universities, hospitals and financial industry. Mangalore is the nearest airport to Manipal and Udupi, the nearest train station.

21 Shimoga, Karnataka

Gateway of Malnad

Shimoga, also known as Shivamogga, is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka.The name Shivamogga is believed to be derived from the words Shiva-Mukha, meaning Face of Shiva, referring to its location at the foothills of the Western Ghats. The city is surrounded by lush green forests, rivers, waterfalls, and mountain ranges, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.

22 Hassan, Karnataka

Vibrant city of Karnataka

Hassan, in the Indian state of Karnataka, is a district city renowned for its ancient charm aura, which is strong enough to entice any visitor. The city has a long and wonderful history, and it is named after the goddess Hassanamba. The city and its different tourist attractions are a delight for history and travel fans, thanks to its antique Jain architecture, old temples, and ancient palaces. Due to its unique combination of historical, cultural, religious and artistic significance, this city continues to be one of Karnataka's most visited tourist destinations. All of this, plus the city's generally favourable climate, makes Hassan a favourite pick for vacationers.

23 Tumkur, Karnataka

The city of coconut trees

Tumkur is located around 70 kilometres from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. The widespread presence of the flower tumbe huuvu or the well-known local instrument tamate ooru have been cited as possible origins for the name of the city. Since there are so many palm trees in this area, the locals have given the name Coconut City to their hometown. It's made up of other major industrial firms including TVS Electronics, System Consultant Confirmation of India and WIPRO, in addition to the usual suspects like manufacturers of ropes, watches, blankets and raw cotton. In 2011, this metropolis was named Karnataka's Corporation City.

24 Gulbarga, Karnataka

Karnatakas city with a rich history

Gulbarga formerly known as Kalaburagi, is recognised for its rich history. This city is 145 kilometres away from Latur and 212 kilometres away from Hyderabad. These Hindu and Muslim-influenced architectural wonders are fueling the city's growth. The city's forts are fascinating, and it is also famous as a Sufi spiritual centre. Every visitor and history buff will find something to love in the city, as it has just the appropriate amount of cultural heritage and beauty, coupled with stunning settings.

25 Sringeri, Karnataka

The Town of Traditional Learning

Sringeri is a town located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, India. It is known for being the site of the first matha (monastery) established by Adi Shankaracharya, the famous Hindu philosopher and theologian in the 8th century CE. The town is located on the banks of the Tunga River, and is surrounded by lush greenery and dense forests. It is therefore a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.

26 Bijapur, Karnataka

Incredible city with historical landmarks

Karnataka, a state in southern India, is home to several undiscovered treasures. The city of Bijapur in the Indian state of Karnataka has a rich history and is known for its impressive architecture. Visitors, however, will feel as though they have been transported back in time by sites such as the magnificent Ibrahim Rauza, Jumma Masjid and Gol Gumbaz. Relics from these kingships and sultanates are currently on display around the city, a testament to its dedication to preserving its heritage. The original name for this city was Vijayapura, which means city of triumph in Sanskrit.

27 Belur, Karnataka

Timeless Beauty of Belur: A Journey Through Ancient Artistry

Discover the enchanting allure of Belur, a historical gem nestled in the heart of Karnataka, India. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage as you marvel at the intricate carvings and stunning architecture of the Chennakeshava Temple. Experience the warmth of local hospitality and indulge in the flavours of traditional cuisine, all while basking in the serene atmosphere of this captivating destination.

28 Badami, Karnataka

Small town in Karnataka

Nestled in the northern part of Karnataka, India, Badami is a small town renowned for its ancient rock-cut cave temples and structural temples. With its stunning red sandstone cliffs and rich cultural heritage, Badami is a must-visit destination for those interested in history and architecture.

29 Davangere, Karnataka

The Manchester of Karnataka

Davangere is a city located in the southern state of Karnataka, India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Davangere district and is situated on the banks of the river Shivana. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its contributions to literature, education, and arts. Davangere is also famous for its mouth-watering culinary specialty, the Davangere Benne Dosa, a type of crispy pancake made with butter and served with spicy chutney.

30 Chitradurga, Karnataka

Blending urbanization with history

Chitradurga, a city in Karnataka, is located in the valley of the Vedavati River and is historically significant. Tourist attractions in the city are one-of-a-kind due to the city's interesting history and abundance of antique and historical artefacts displayed in the city. Chitradurga's tourist attractions are a shining example of how history and modernity can peacefully coexist. The well-known attractions in the city attract visitors thanks to their peaceful, otherworldly atmosphere and extensive history.

Places to Visit in Bangalore

Bannerghatta Biological Park

Savandurga, Karnataka

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath

Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh

Bangalore Palace

National Gallery of Modern Art

Bull Temple

Lumbini Garden

Cubbon Park

Lal Bagh Botanical Garden

Places to visit in coorg.

Golden Temple

Raja's Seat

Irupu Falls

Madikeri Fort

Abbey Falls, Coorg (Madikeri)

Iguthappa Temple

River Rafting in Coorg

Honnamana Kere Lake

Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Jhari Waterfalls

Hebbe Falls

Baba Budangiri

Ballalarayana Durga Fort

Shri Kalaseshwara Swami Temple

Sringeri Sharada Peetham

Coffee Museum Chikmagalur

Trekking to Z Point

Jungle Safari in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Golfing at Chikmagalur Golf Club

Places to visit in nandi hills.

Brahmashram

Tipu's Summer Residence

Tipu's Drop

Bhoga Nandishwara Temple

Muddenahalli

Amrita Sarovar

Top countries to explore.

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The United States of America (USA)

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United Kingdom

United Arab Emirates

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Netherlands

South Korea

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Places to visit in nepal.

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Places to Visit in Karnataka!

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Top 5 Best Tourist Places in Karnataka

The expansive array of attractions within Karnataka’s tourism portfolio appeals to a diverse range of visitor preferences and desires. Highlighting the top best tourist places in Karnataka, we have the regal Mysore Palace, picturesque Coorg Hill Station, historically significant Hampi Heritage Site, enthralling Gokarna Beach and the imposing Jog Falls. These represent just a slice of what one can experience in this dynamic state through other equally mesmerizing locations such as Nandi Hills which continue to captivate our valued guests. It is mainly known for its Heritage sites, hills and Wildlife habitat. The city also stands out with its malls, multiplexes, parks, lakes, gardens, cafes, bars, palaces, museums, and other attractions. I tried my best to include the most famous tourist places in Karnataka. I hope you like these places during your visit to the state.

Coorg Hill Station​

Coorg is excellent for a short getaway in Karnataka, lies 1525m above sea level. The hill station is quite known for its coffee plantations, and a favored summer retreat to the state. The fascinating landscape and the green hills in Coorg are perfect for trekking and camping options, Coorg is the place to be for all nature lovers. It also attains a popular destination tag because of its culture and people. 

A local clan(Kodavas) specialized in martial arts and distinguished for their keen hospitality. Foggy hills, green forest, tea and coffee plantation, orange copses, surging streets, and breathtaking landscapes have made Coorg an exceptional holiday destination. Madikeri is the heartland of the Coorg area and was the seat of the ruling dynasty. Other famous hill stations are Nandi Hills, Chikmagalur, Shimoga, Ramnagaram, Agumbe, BR Hills, Kudremukh, and Kotagiri.

Ideal Trip Duration : 1-2 days Nearest City : Mysore Best Time to Visit : October-March Great For : Hiking, trekking, cycling, visiting waterfalls and touring tea and coffee plantations.

Mysore is one of the oldest cities and the second largest in Karnataka. It is one of the very few cities that has managed to maintain its old-world charm, well known as the City of Palaces. It has numerous tourist attractions that include impressive palaces, heritage structures, museums, temples, gardens, etc. Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hill Temple are the most popular places to visit in Mysore and due to this reason, we have also included this place in the best tourist places in Karnataka.

According to ancient story in the mythological Devi Purana, Mysore was dictated by the demon-king Mahishasura. He was called Mahishasura because he was a buffalo-headed beast. Hence, this place came to be known as Mahishuru, which later became Maisuru and Mysore.

The Mysore Kingdom, ruled by the Wodeyar family was initially served as a servant state of the Vijayanagara Empire. After the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire, the control of Mysore moved into the hands of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan between 1761 and 1799. After the death of Tipu Sultan in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, then the control was given over back to the Wodeyar family.

The nearest airport is in Bangalore, around 184 km from Mysore. It has frequent flights from Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Goa, Mangalore, and Thiruvananthapuram. Mysore has also pleasant weather throughout the year, though October to March is the best season to visit. It usually takes about 2 full days to visit the all-important places in Mysore.

Ideal Trip Duration : 1-2 days Best Time to Visit : October to March Great For : Sightseeing

Gokarna Beach​

Gokarna is a small and less populated town situated in the north Kannad district of Karnataka. It is around 150 km from the Vasco Da Gama airport and around 60 km from the Karwar rail station. This place is of the best tourist places in Karnataka and one of the offbeat destinations in South India due to its peaceful ambiance.  Your trip surely will be incomplete without a visit to the famous Mahabaleshwara temple and Om beach. Gokarna is just like a Goa. The beaches in this town are fantastic and perfect for a day out in the sun. You can also indulge in a few water sports at the beaches. 

The main attraction of the Gokarna is the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which houses the Atmalinga. Gokarna has considered being the Mukti Sthala, where Hindus perform funeral rituals. Followers visit the Gokarna temple in large numbers during Mahashivratri and Kartika Purnima festivals. The whole town gets decorated during the four days of the Mahashivratri festival.

Apart from being a spiritual town, Gokarna appreciated for its beaches. You will find beautiful beaches nearby, which have small shacks serving as accommodation along with many small shops and modern eateries. The five famous beaches are Om, Kudle, Gokarna, Half Moon, and Paradise Beaches. Among the beaches in Gokarna, the Om beach is usually popular among surfers. The beach gets its name due to the natural formation of the holy Om symbol.

Ideal Trip Duration:  1 Complete Day Nearest City:  Hubli (around 165 Kms) Best Time to Visit Gokarna:  October to March Great For:  Beaches, Sightseeing, and Adventure Sports

Hampi is one of the renowned  UNESCO World Heritage Site . It has located at a distance of 340 km from Bangalore and around 377 km from Hyderabad. The place is also home to many historical sites and the Vijayanagar Empire. The Nearest airport is Hubli, about 74 km. It is one of the best tourist places in Karnataka which you should not miss during your South India tour. The popular tourist spots are the Hampi Bazaar area and the Royal center near Kamalapur.

Hampi is an extremely famous place in terms of history and architecture. Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and an integral part of the Empire in 1500AD. They had created a large army to protect it from other kingdoms. In addition, Hampi grew as a trade center for cotton, spices, and gemstones. It was one of the richest and largest cities in the world during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Ideal Trip Duration:  1-2 Days Best Time to Visit :  September to March Places to Explore : the Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill and the Achyutaraya Temple Great For : Shopping, Sightseeing

Chikmagalur​

Chikmagalur means The Land of the Younger Daughter. The nearest airport is Mangalore, at a distance of 158 km from Chikmagalur. If you love the fragrance of freshly fermented coffee in the mornings, then you are going to love this place, which has a perpetual smell of coffee lingering in the air. Chikmagalur is at an altitude of 3400 feet in the foothills of Mullayangiri Range in Karnataka. Above all, it is also renowned for high mountains, dense green forests, and its peaceful environment.

This hill state in Karnataka is very well known as the Coffee Land of Karnataka. It is the place where coffee did cultivate for the first time in India. A Muslim saint Baba Budan who brought coffee seeds from Yemen around 1600 year. Later, during the Europeans came to India, they took control over the plantations and started selling coffee and tea.

In addition, Many festivals celebrated in Chikmagalur for instance Ganesha Chaturthi, Deepavali, Ugadi, Dusshera. The climate of Chikmagalur is pleasant throughout the year.

Ideal Trip Duration : 1-2 Days Nearest City : Mangalore (around 148 Kms) Best Time to Visit : Throughout the year Great For : Relaxed Holidays, Nature Trails, touring tea and coffee plantations

Travel Tips for Karnataka​

Apart from the above top 5 tourist places, there are many other places which you can include in your itinerary like Udupi, Murudeshwar, Bandipur National Park, Shivanasamudra, and Jog Falls. I have created a list of good Karnataka tourist places, add as many as in your Karnataka’s itinerary. 

You can visit Karnataka throughout the year, but the winter months from September to February are the best season to visit. You can also see this from a different perspective, it is the busiest season, and hotels/resorts are expensive this season. Another thing, Karnataka is also safe for domestic & foreign tourists. People are here very progressive, you probably will start to like them in just a few days.

Do not forget to try Karnataka (Kannada) food/sweet dish. Some famous Kannada recipes are Korri Gassi, Davangere benne dosa, Neer Dosa, Mysore Pak, Pandi Curry, Bisi Bele Bhat, Haalbai And Huggi, Dharwad Peda, Chiroti, Raagi mudde. You can also take away some of the sweet dishes back to your home.

It usually takes at least 4-5 days to visit the top tourist places of Karnataka. It is difficult to cover all the places but you can start plan your itinerary with the best Karnataka places and then add more nearby places to it. I hope you will enjoy reading this post and it helps you to plan your Karnataka trip.

How to Plan 3 days trip in Karnataka?

Navigating through the most illustrious tourist destinations within Karnataka in 3 days trip can be daunting yet exhilarating. Your preferences and expectations will ultimately determine how much pleasure you derive from your visit to Karnataka. As an experienced travel planner, I have carefully curated a three days itinerary for your visit to Karnataka. This plan is tailored towards individuals residing outside the state, assuming that they possess adequate funds for air or rail travel expenses. For natives of Karnataka or those living within the state’s boundaries, the advantage remains in being able to better customize this schedule and maximize their efficient use of these three days.

• Commence your journey by boarding a flight heading directly toward Mysore Airport. On the first day of your trip, mark Mysore Palace as your first stopover; its proximity to the airport ultimately contributes to saving time while allowing ample room for exploration. Enhance the richness of experience by immersing yourself in local culture via visits to nearby locales or marketplaces.
• On following sunrise, start early towards Coorg Hill station using available options like cabs or trains; quite renowned for its calming waterfalls and an envelopment of mist-enhanced landscapes ideally suited for tranquility seekers. Seek comfortable accommodation there overnight.
• Chikkamagaluru is the final destination on day 3rd at Karnataka Tour. Inhabitants known popularly for stunning scenic beauty forming background tapestry behind coffee plantations thriving amidst trekking trails. A National key-point Mangalore houses nearest airport approximately located 158 km away facilitates easy transportation.

Caution – This might seem hectic due principally limited time rounding unique place variety. Yet planning 3 days Karnataka Trip without visiting most population-proclaimed places is nearly impossible. After all remember journey comprises primary memories over destination. So continue cherishing every movement retain traveling spirit alive irrespective environmental dispositions.

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15 Places to Visit in Karnataka With Friends and Family

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Karnataka is a backpackers paradise. Its beauty often underestimated, quite a few places to visit in Karnataka have been left unexplored by the tourists of the world. From the Western Ghats to temples to the serene and laid back beaches to clubbing and cute cafes around the city, the southern side has it all. 

Also read: 22 Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore To Help You Unwind!

We bring to you a list of 15 places to visit in Karnataka that will make the perfect vacation spots, leaving you mesmerized and coming back for more. 

1. Coorg – The Scotland of India

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Away from the chaos of the crowd, Coorg has the ability to transport you to another vibe.  The streams cutting through its lush green forests,  the waterfalls  and it’s mesmerizing views make it one of the best places to visit. 

About 6 hours drive from Bangalore, a place to escape the monotony of our daily lives. Anyone with an eye for adventure has numerous trekking spots from aromatic coffee plantations, mountain paths and river sides.  The best part about Coorg is that there is a local market to fulfill any kind of shopping needs. Ranging from the homemade chocolates to its non veg variety,  the food is something you just cannot miss out on.

Coorg is one of the most exotic hill stations in Karnataka. It truly stands out because it goes beyond just its scenic beauty to its rich culture and welcoming people. This land of coffee estates makes the perfect getaway.

2. Gokarna – A Pristine destination

Image Souce:  sirsiattractions

A breathtaking place that is known for its captivating beaches and it’s beautiful temples. The Palm trees and golden sands overlooking the clean blue waters slows down time and makes you want to stay for eternity.  Gokarna attracts  hordes of tourists every year not just for its blue luxury but also for its temples with rich histories. 

Leaving Gokarna without a visit to the Murudeshwar Temple is an incomplete trip. Some of the must visit beaches are Kudle beach and Om Beach. A calm place to relax and let loose in the comfort of your people. 

A tranquil destination just about 519 km from Bangalore that will have you coming back for more. From water sports to its Holy pilgrimage, a town of two contrasts, popular among not just Indians but internationally as well. 

3. Chikmagalur –  The Perfect Getaway

The blissful mix of a relaxing yet adventure filled holiday,  Chikmagalur and its serene hill station is the place to be. From trekking to Mullayanagiri – the highest Mountain peak in Karnataka to tea farms, Hebbe falls, Ayyanakere lake and Baba Budan Giri mountains, this place has it all.

There are numerous things to do in Chikmagalur. You can experience various water sports and go kayaking in the Chikmagalur lake. To catch a glimpse of wildlife in its raw aura, you can go for a safari and witness the tiger reserve at Bhadra wildlife park or visit the Kudremukh sanctuary.

The coffee land of Karnataka is an all rounder from its estates to the comfort of rebooting at your hotel. A four-hour drive from Bangalore, it remains a must-visit.

4. Mysore – The Palace city 

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons 

An important city that has retained its historical royal heritage through the many years. One of the oldest cities in Karnataka, it has managed to preserve its ancient charm when most other cities have let go of that aspect. 

The architecture, multiple museums, palaces and temples enhance the old world charm of the city. The beauty of the second largest city in Karnataka Is that you can see a hint of modernity in its ancient treasure. Walking down the roads  surrounded by trees, the sense of calm you feel in the city is immense.

Brindavan Gardens is the alluring tourist spot in Mysore. The lights and activities that go on here in the evening  is something that one should never miss on and is worth every bit of the 3 hour long journey by road from Bangalore.

5. Kabini – An Alternate Reality

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons   

If you are a wildlife enthusiast or even just an individual with a dream to catch a glimpse of a reality that we don’t so often see, Kabini is the place for you. Away from the chaos of the city, Nagarhole forest is the perfect place to unwind and observe nature in its true form.

In the midst of the dense, lush green forests, hide some of the most majestic animals we have ever come across. A heightened level of uncertainty, the forest truly teaches you to be patient to see wonders because if you do see an animal, even for a second it will be worth every moment you spent waiting. Safari into the forest is an  experience that you can never forget and if you are truly lucky you may even come across  the mighty black panther.  

From the water Safari to the jungle safari the sites that you come across will make you fall in love With nature and the earth a little more. Apart from the safari, kabini also remains a place that is just right for some time away from the city and can help you regain some inspiration if you need.  An experience of a lifetime, Kabini will help you discover and form a bond with nature in a way that you never thought possible.

6. Hampi – The city of ruins 

Image Source: karnatakatourism.org

A world UNESCO Heritage site, Hampi is home to the ruins of the Vijayanagara empire. 500 architecturally brilliant structures, Hampi has hundreds of relatively untouched ways for us to perceive history. Each monument, treasury building, street market and other remains of the Vijayanagara empire has a story of its own to tell the innumerable tourists that visit the city every year.

Hampi’s beautifully carved temples, especially the Virupaksha Temple and the musical pillars affect an extravagant experience, something one would be lucky to see in their lifetime. 

It is the perfect spot to watch some architectural marvel and a personal heaven for history scholars and enthusiasts. 

7. Jog Falls – The Raja Falls 

Located about 400 km from Bangalore, it falls from 850 feet which is the second highest plunge in India. Since the summers are extremely hot at Jog Falls, the best time to visit the waterfall is from July to December to see it in its full force. 

Steps present at the Jog Falls take you up to the mesmerizing view point that can make you feel like you’ve been there for mere minutes  when in reality you have been there for an hour. The sound of the water falling at such a depth and rushing into a stream is calming and can make you feel hypnotised, leaving the visitors with a soothing effect. Witnessing the sunset from the Jog Falls viewpoint is an absolutely enthralling experience. 

Source:  Wikimedia Commons 

8. Bangalore – The Silicon Valley of India 

Bangalore has a vibe of its own. A city with the power to make you feel like home no matter where you’re from with it’s ever accommodating people. Bangalore is loved for its weather like no other city. 

Bangalore is known for its party culture, the street food, the cafes round the corner and book stores. Buffets, brunch and cocktails are the favourite among Bangaloreans. Cubbon park and lalbagh botanical garden are a must visit for its serene beauty and tall trees. Corner house ice cream is one of the best ice creams that everyone must try atleast once. 

From relaxing weekends out, to clubbing all night to the energy at chinnaswamy stadium during the cricket fever, the vibe in Bangalore is absolutely immaculate. 

9. Dandeli – The Spot for thrill seekers 

Dandeli is the place for anyone seeking adventure. It’s hills and forests make it a great spot for trekking. It also offers kayaking and boating in its River Kali. 

Wildlife enthusiasts also enjoy Dandeli as they can spot bison and black panthers amidst the serene nature.  

Kavla Caves, Satholi falls, Ulavi Temple and Skye point are some must visit places while touring Dandeli. Camping is popular here where individuals can have a soothing experience by a bonfire while staring away at the starry sky. 

10. Murudeshwar – The abode of Lord Shiva

The temple town is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in India.  It is home to the second largest statue of Lord Shiva in the world. 

Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides and the Western Ghats on one, the town is a perfect mix of the hills and the Beach. This makes a perfect spot for family and friends who are divided by the conflict of mountains or the blue seas. Netrani Island offers adventure sports like snorkeling and Scuba Diving making it a popular spot for the tourists. 

Murudeshwar is a magnificent place whose rustic beauty attracts people from across the world even today. 

Source:  Pixabay

11. Udupi – The city of Temples and Food

Located near Mangalore, Udupi brings its people the best of two worlds. It has both some of the  most beautiful temples and some of the best food in South India.  The Sri Krishna temple which is known for its Krishna Idol that is adorned with jewels brings in tourists, devotees and pilgrims from across the country and the world. This holy town also has a Shiva temple which is about hundred years old. 

Udupi is also known for its vegetarian food and is popular for its South Indian food across the country. The best seafood is available in the beach shacks on its laid back shores. 

The city is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats making it a breathtaking town. The sound of the Waves rushing against the clean shores, the unforgettable ‘Udupi cuisine’ and the rich cultural temples have people coming back to the district for more. 

Image Source: Pixahive

12. Bandipur – Tiger Reserve in the Nilgiris 

Located enroute Ooty from Mysore, the tiger reserve has become one of the top tourist attractions in Karnataka. It is the first biosphere in India.

Some of the animals that you can spot here are tigers, spotted deer, antelopes, elephants and even endangered animals such as pythons, hornbills,  Sloth bears and leopards. 

An opportunity to escape the crowd of humans and get hypnotized by the sights and calls of the animals along with the mesmerising flora and fauna. 

13. Halebidu – The Temple Town 

The capital of the Hoysalas is engulfed by marvelous Sculptures, temples and shrines. Due to its magnificent temple complexes and its hoysala architecture, the town is known as the gem of Indian Architecture. 

It depicts to its visitors the great culture and imprints from significant events of the ancient period. From the temple built to honour King Vishnuvardhana and queen shantala Devi, there lies a stunning view of two Hills on opposite sides appearing like two bulls and a Ganesh figure on the southern side. The panels and sculptures of Halebidu continue to stand out today as well. Halebidu was destroyed twice by the Delhi Sultanate and hence was named “Halebidu” meaning ‘Old city’. 

14. Shimoga – The breadbasket of Karnataka 

Shimoga in its raw aura, from its picturesque landscape to the magnificent waterfalls and rich heritage temples, the town is truly enchanting. 

Shimoga is also called rice bowl because of its various palms and paddy fields. The four rivers, the beautiful weather, the mystical hills and the delicious food has truly made Shimoga a Traveler’s paradise. 

Source:  Rajesh P Nayak (Flickr)

15. Badami – An Archaeological Delight 

Badami is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site for displaying some of the finest temple architecture in India. It consists of Dravidian architecture and has examples of both North Indian and South Indian architecture.  

The fortresses and carvings stem from the brilliant architecture in Badami. The sandstone cave temples,  the three Hindu temples and one Jain temple in the Badami caves and the stunning architectural techniques displayed has made Badami the home to a number of captivating cave temples. 

Hope you liked our list of places to visit in Karnataka. How many have you been to?

A spontaneous and creative 19-year-old pursuing a triple major in Journalism, Psychology and Media. An aim to create a difference in the society, no matter how small with an intention to create, exhibit and defy.

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Top 10 tourist places in Karnataka

Karnataka, located in the southern part of India, is a treasure trove of captivating tourist destinations that blend history, culture, and nature in perfect harmony. From bustling cities to serene beaches and ancient ruins, the state offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. In this article, we will explore the top 10 tourist places in Karnataka that are sure to leave you enchanted.

1. Bengaluru: The Silicon Valley of India

Starting our journey in the heart of Karnataka, Bengaluru, the state capital, is a modern and cosmopolitan city known as the “Silicon Valley of India.” Its fast-paced lifestyle and vibrant culture attract people from all walks of life. Bengaluru’s urban charm is complemented by a plethora of beautiful parks, including Cubbon Park and Lalbagh Botanical Garden, which offer peaceful retreats from the city’s hustle and bustle. A visit to the majestic Bangalore Palace, with its Tudor-style architecture, is a must to delve into the city’s regal past.

2. Top 10 tourist places in Karnataka: Mysuru

Traveling southwest, we arrive in Mysuru, a city steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Known as the “City of Palaces,” Mysuru boasts the magnificent Mysore Palace, a breathtaking example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. To get a panoramic view of the city, a trip to Chamundi Hill is in order, where the Chamundeshwari Temple stands proudly. The vibrant culture and the bustling Devaraja Market add to the charm of this royal city.

3. Coorg: The Scotland of India

Moving westward, we reach the picturesque hill station of Coorg, often referred to as the “Scotland of India.” This enchanting region is covered in lush greenery and vast coffee plantations, providing a serene escape from the city’s chaos. The mesmerizing Abbey Falls, the birthplace of River Kaveri – Talakaveri , and the scenic viewpoint of Raja’s Seat are among the top attractions that make Coorg a nature lover’s paradise.

4. Top 10 tourist places in Karnataka: Hampi

Delving into Karnataka’s rich history, we head to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a city of ancient ruins. The magnificent Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the awe-inspiring Vittala Temple, with its iconic stone chariot, stand as testaments to the region’s glorious past. Exploring Hampi’s scattered ruins is like stepping back in time to the days of the Vijayanagara Empire.

5. Gokarna: The Tranquil Beaches

Venturing towards the coast, we encounter Gokarna, a quaint town known for its pristine and less-crowded beaches. Om Beach, shaped like the auspicious symbol ‘Om,’ is a popular spot for relaxation and water sports. Kudle Beach, surrounded by cliffs, offers a serene atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the sunsets. The famous Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, adds a touch of spirituality to Gokarna’s beachside charm.

6. Top 10 tourist places in Karnataka: Badami

In the northern part of Karnataka, lies Badami, an ancient town renowned for its rock-cut cave temples. The intricate carvings and ancient architecture of the Bhutanatha Group of Temples are a treat for history enthusiasts. The Agastya Lake , situated at the foot of the Badami Cave Temples, adds to the scenic beauty of this historical site.

7. Mangalore: The Coastal Delight

Heading to the coastal region, we arrive in Mangalore, a bustling port city with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Panambur Beach, known for its cleanliness and water sports, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. St. Aloysius Chapel, adorned with stunning frescoes, and Ullal Beach, with its tranquil atmosphere, are some of the must-visit spots in Mangalore.

8. Top 10 tourist places in Karnataka: Belur and Halebidu

A short distance away from Hassan district, we find Belur and Halebidu, two towns that showcase the exquisite Hoysala architecture. The Chennakesava Temple in Belur is a masterpiece of stone carvings and intricate craftsmanship. The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, dedicated to Lord Shiva, leaves visitors in awe with its detailed sculptures. Kedareshwara Temple is another architectural gem worth exploring in Halebidu.

9. Gokak Falls: Nature’s Spectacle

As we move back towards the heart of Karnataka, we encounter the stunning Gokak Falls, located on the Ghataprabha River. The waterfall’s cascading beauty against the backdrop of lush green surroundings creates a breathtaking sight. Gokak Falls offers an excellent opportunity for nature lovers and photographers to capture its raw grandeur.

10. Top 10 tourist places in Karnataka: Udupi

Our final destination takes us to Udupi, a town known for its religious significance and delectable cuisine. The Sri Krishna Temple, a major pilgrimage site, attracts devotees from all over the country. Udupi is also famous for its mouthwatering vegetarian dishes, including the world-famous Udupi dosa and idli.

Which is a good place to see in Karnataka?

One of the must-visit places in Karnataka is Hampi. It’s an ancient city with mesmerizing ruins and historical significance, making it a fantastic destination for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate architectural marvels.

What are the top 5 tourist attractions in Karnataka?

Karnataka offers a plethora of exciting tourist attractions, but here are five of the most popular ones: a. Mysuru Palace in Mysuru (Mysore) – A magnificent royal palace known for its opulent architecture and grandeur. b. Coorg (Kodagu) – Famous for its lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and pleasant climate, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers. c. Gokarna – A serene beach town known for its pristine beaches and spiritual significance, attracting both beach lovers and pilgrims. d. Jog Falls – One of India’s highest waterfalls, offering a breathtaking view and a refreshing experience during the monsoon season. e. Bengaluru (Bangalore) – The vibrant capital city known as the “Silicon Valley of India,” offering a mix of modernity and green spaces like Lalbagh Botanical Garden.

What is the most famous thing in Karnataka?

The most famous thing in Karnataka is its rich cultural heritage. The state has a profound historical background, evident through its impressive architecture, ancient temples, and historical sites like Hampi, Belur, and Halebidu. Karnataka is also renowned for its classical music and dance forms, particularly Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam.

What is famous in South Karnataka?

South Karnataka is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, with places like Coorg and Chikmagalur offering picturesque landscapes, coffee plantations, and misty hills. The region is also known for its historic and religious significance, with prominent temples like the Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysuru and the ancient town of Srirangapatna. South Karnataka’s unique cultural heritage and warm hospitality make it a delightful destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, nature, and spirituality.

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Top 5 tourist places in Karnataka

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Coorg Travel Essentials

Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: October to March Read More

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"The Scotland of India"

Coorg tourism.

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. The Kodavas, a local clan specializing in martial arts, are especially notable for their keen hospitality.

Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is the most affluent hill station in Karnataka. It is well known for its breathtakingly exotic scenery and lush greenery. Forest covered hills, spice and coffee plantations only add to the landscape. Madikeri is the region's centre point with all transportation for getting around starting from here. On a visit to Coorg, cover the beautiful towns like Virajpet, Kushalnagar, Gonikoppal, Pollibetta, and Somwarpet, and experience the beautiful concept of "homestays" to make your experience more memorable! 

Must Know Before You Travel to Coorg

• Some outdoor attractions may be closed or inaccessible during the monsoon season due to heavy rains.
• During the peak season (October to March) and long weekends,  it's advisable to book accommodations in advance.

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• Kabini Lake View Resort Offers A Cosy Heaven To Tourists In 2024

14 Jun 2024

Originating in Kerala’s Wayanad District, the Kabini River, sometimes called Kapila, is created when the Panamaram and Mananthavady Rivers meet. It comes into Karnataka from the east, where it meets the Kaveri River in Tirumakudalu, Narasipura. Alongside this beautiful river, there is a very famous resort in India, Lake View Resort Kabini is also situated. This resort is the perfect spot to stay and relax yourself in the beauty of nature. Read this article to learn more about the resort.

Overview Of Lake View Resort Kabini

Image Credit: Engin_Akyurt for Pixabay

Lake View Resort Kabini is a beautiful property located on the outskirts of the Nagarahole National Park near the backwaters of the Kabini River. The place is best for anyone who wants to be close to nature. The property is spread across a lush area with eight rooms and guarantees privacy to the guests. Facilities available for guests include a barbeque area, a children’s playground, bird-watching boat rides, and wildlife tours, among others. The lake’s affordability and great view make Lake View Kabini Resort a perfect getaway offering great value for money and excellent service.

Must Read: Places To Visit In Kabini

Things To Do At Lake View Resort Kabini

Image Credit: Keresi72 for Pixabay

Lake View Resort Kabini offers a variety of activities that allow visitors to experience the beauty of the area. Some of them are as follows:

• Go on guided wildlife safaris in the Nagarahole National Park and get a chance to see animals like elephants, tigers, lions and many more.
• Enjoy the beautiful and mesmerising boat rides on the Kabini River, which gives you a unique perspective on the local wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
• This area is a haven for bird watchers with over 250 species of birds, including kingfishers and hornbills.
• Enjoy a nature walk with your family and friends at Lake View Resort. Take guided nature walks to learn about the local flora and fauna surroundings.
• Go on cycling across the Lake Kabini. Rent a bicycle and explore the beautiful trails around the resort at your own pace.
• Go on fishing with your family. Try fishing in the Kabini River. It is the perfect way to relax and spend an afternoon.
• Play indoor games at Lake View Resort Kabini. Enjoy indoor activities like darts and board games for a fun and relaxing time.

Lake View Resort Kabini: Timing and Tariffs

Image Credit: davidlee770924 for Pixabay

Lake View Resort Kabini has many amazing getaways with a variety of amenities and activities. Here is a detailed look at the resort’s timings and tariffs:

Check-in Time: 12:00 PM Check-out: 10:30 AM

Tariff: Approx ₹9,000 per cottage (2 pax) per night, with free accommodation for children under 6 years of age.

• Accommodation in A/C rooms on a twin-sharing basis.
• Buffet lunch or dinner, high tea/coffee, and breakfast.
• Complimentary campfire for groups of 4+.
• Free use of volleyball, badminton, and cycles.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi in the dining hall.

Additional Costs

• Accommodation of children between the ages of 6 and 12 in the same cottage costs an additional fee of ₹1,500. This cost covers an extra bed, tea, buffet lunch, buffet dinner on day 1 and breakfast on day 2.
• There is an additional fee of ₹2,500 if there are more than 2 individuals.

Note: GST @ 18% extra Approx.

Suggested Read: Resorts Near Kabini

Places To Visit Near Lake View Resort Kabini

If you’re planning to stay at Lake View Resort Kabini, then you may consider the following places to spend your time with your family and friends:

1. Nagarhole National Park

Image Credit: Dhruvaraj S for Wikimedia Commons

Nagarhole National Park is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries that is located around 30 km away from the Lake View Resort Kabini. One can go on wildlife safaris and see animals like elephants, tigers, leopards and different birding sites. The park is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is one of the most popular places for wildlife and nature lovers.

Ideal For: Children, family, solo Best Time To Visit: September to April

2. Kabini Backwaters

Image Credit: WildlifeOdyssey for Wikimedia Commons

Just 15 km from the resort, Kabini Backwaters are known for their serene beauty. This area provides a perfect setting for boat rides and bird watching. It is a great spot for photography, offering picturesque views and a peaceful environment ideal for relaxation.

Ideal For: Family, solo Best Time To Visit: April to October

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kabini

3. Bandipur National Park

Image Credit: Yathin S Krishnappa for Wikimedia Commons

Located approximately 80 km from Lake View Resort Kabini. Bandipur National Park is famous for its tiger population. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris to spot diverse wildlife including elephants and various bird species. It is a significant wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka.

Ideal For: Children, family, solo Best Time To Visit: April to October

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Image Credit: ram for Wikimedia Commons

Kabini Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is another wildlife sanctuary. It is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is situated approximately 50 Km from the Lake View Resort. You can see animals like elephants, tigers and bison. It is also a common destination for bird watching and nature walks.

Suggested Read: Kabini Homestays

5. Mysore Palace

Image Source: Pexels

Mysore Palace is among the oldest structures in the city. Just 60 km from the main resort, it’s also known as Amba Palace. It is one of the most important examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture and the interior is also adorned with architectural designs by French architects. Many people visit the place every month to witness the importance of the place as a cultural heritage site.

Ideal For: Children, family, solo Best Time To Visit: September to March

6. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Image Credit: Paweł ‘pbm’ Szubert for Wikimedia Commons

The Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is the largest in Karnataka. It is 75 km from the resort. It is home to many migratory birds and offers boat rides that provide close-up views of species like painted storks, pelicans, and herons. This place is a perfect spot for all nature lovers and photographers.

Suggested Read: Historical Places In Karnataka

How To Reach

Image Credit: dendoktoor for Pixabay

Reaching Lake View Resort Kabini is quite convenient, with multiple options available to travellers. Here are the detailed ways to get there:

By Air There are two main airports in the vicinity of the resort. The airports are Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore and Mysore Airport. Kempegowda International Airport is about 200 km from Kabini and is connected to many cities in India. Mysore Airport is another domestic airport which is comparatively small and situated at a distance of 60 km from Kabini.

By Rail The nearest railway station is Mysuru Junction railway station, which is at a distance of 95 km from Kabini. It is about 60 km from Kabini. This station is well connected to other important cities in Karnataka and other parts of the country, which makes this station best for those who prefer train transport.

By Road Kabini is roughly 200 km away from Bangalore. It will take you approximately 4-5 hours to drive through the National Highway 275 and the State Highway 33. The road is quite pleasant and picturesque. Kabini is located at a distance of approximately 60 km from Mysore, and it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The direct route is through Hunsur Road which is SH33.

Further Read: Adventure Activities In Karnataka

The Lake View Resort Kabini isn’t just a place to stay; it’s where you refresh your spirit and get back in touch with nature’s stunning beauty. Whether looking for adventure or simply a getaway from city life, this serene hideaway promises a great experience. So what are you waiting for? Plan an amazing break by booking your trip to Karnataka and staying at Lake View Resort Kabini for a peaceful and exciting experience.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here . Cover Image Credit: DirkGast for Pixabay

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake View Resort Kabini

Why is Kabini famous?

Kabini is famous for its rich biodiversity, which includes tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species. It offers thrilling safaris and serene backwaters, attracting nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Is Kabini in Kerala or Karnataka?

Kabini is located in Karnataka near the border with Kerala. It is a popular destination known for its wildlife sanctuaries and beautiful landscapes, which enhance its appeal as a prime location for visitors.

Which month is best to visit Kabini?

The best time to visit Kabini is from October to May. During this time the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

Why is Kabini costly?

Kabini can be costly due to its exclusive wildlife experiences, high-quality resorts, and limited accommodations. However, the unique and immersive experiences offered, including at Lake View Resort Kabini, justify the higher prices.

Is Kabini fun?

Exploring Kabini is fun because of its wildlife sightings, environment, and excellent resort options, like Lake View Resort Kabini, which offers memorable and immersive experiences for all visitors.

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