Karnataka is rich in heritage, culture, traditions and history! Karnataka Tourisms has something in store for everybody, a complete tourist destination!
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
There are spectacular temples like Virupaksha and Vitthala. You come across mosques which are equally impressive. There are Jain temples, churches and gurudwaras too.
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.
The major railway station in Karnataka is Bangalore Railway Station. It runs trains to all the major cities of India.
By Air
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.
By Road
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.
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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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