Must-visit Tourist Destinations in Karnataka
Karnataka, the captivating state in South India is ideal for a noteworthy travel encounters. Favored with common magnificence, legacy, experience and that’s only the tip of the iceberg, there are a plenty of spots to see, activities and encounters. Including picturesque sea shores, lavish slope stations, antiquated sanctuaries, gigantic fortresses, imperial royal residences, flourishing natural life asylums and landmarks recorded among UNESCO World Heritage Sites, traveler goals in Karnataka are supreme.
The hundreds of years rule of both Hindu and Muslim administrations has skilled a tremendous and fascinating legacy. While, the magnificence of the land originates from the Western Ghats, the stretch of Arabian Sea, rich woodlands and that’s just the beginning. Investigate our rundown of vacationer goals in Karnataka that will make your vacation paramount.
Bangalore
The capital city of Karnataka, Bangalore is one of the most happening cities of the world. The fascinating merge of the modern world and the ancient era, makes its one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Karnataka.
From touring, city visits, stylish shopping, nightlife to other enjoyment, you will never have a dull minute in the city. Nicknamed as ‘Nursery City’, the city has the absolute most seasoned stops in the nation. What’s more, there are various remnants of the Hoysala Empire and the times of the British Raj.
Highlights
- Pay a visit to Lal Bagh, Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace, Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, Vidhana Soudha, Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Halasuru Someshwara Temple, Bangalore fort, St. Mary’s Basilica, Chowdiah Memorial Hall, etc.
- “Nature walk at the impressive gardens of Bangalore
- Go shopping at thriving markets
- Have a taste of the local flavors
- Try the nightlife
Best time to visit: October to May
Bandipur National Park
Moving on with the list of the best tourist destinations in Karnataka, the name of the Bandipur National Park is unmissable. Named as one of the top national parks in India, it is an excellent opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Once the hunting grounds of royals, now it is haven for nature. The wildlife sanctuary is one of the names under the Project Tiger Scheme.
Settled in the midst of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the recreation center environs swarms with different verdure. Waterways, streams and lakes support the land making it feasible for types of warm blooded creatures, avifauna, reptiles and more from the collective of animals including jeopardized untamed life to endure. Step away from city life and take in the ecstasy of nature.
Highlights
- Go wildlife safari-bus, elephant or jeep
- Go bird watching with a guide
- Nature walks to learn about the diverse flora
- Stay at the lavish wildlife resorts
Best time to visit: October to June
Coorg
Named among the most beautiful hill stations in India, Coorg is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Karnataka. Nestled in the lap of the lush Western Ghats, the beauty of the town is beyond words. The coffee plantations, in addition to orange orchards, tea gardens as well as lush forests add to the scenic appeal.
While the picturesque beauty is what tempts for a visit; adventures and charming experiences equally contribute to your wonderful vacation.
Highlights
- Pay a visit to Bylakuppe, one of the top Buddhist monasteries in India
- Enjoy the taste of coffee at the lush plantations
- Go trekking, checking out popular trails
- Try a hand at river rafting
- Check out the attractive Abbey and Iruppu waterfalls
- Bathe elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp
- Sightseeing at ancient Madikeri
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Settled in the midst of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the recreation center environs teems with different widely varied vegetation. Waterways, streams and lakes support the land making it feasible for types of vertebrates, avifauna, reptiles and more from the set of all animals including imperiled untamed life to endure. Step away from city life and take in the joy of nature.
Hampi
Named among the best verifiable goals in India, Hampi is one of the top traveler goals in Karnataka. The superb capital of the Vijayanagar Empire in the fourteenth century, it is one of the best Hindu domains in India, the town is supported by voyagers inspired by Indian legacy. The landmarks and remains of the town are recorded as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.
Set on the banks of River Tungabhadra, the vestiges of monuments mingle with large boulders adding to the charm. Though ravaged by time, the ruins still reveal the glory it held centuries-back, when Hampi was one of the most prosperous cities in the world.
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Highlights
- Explore the ruins Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Hemakuta Hill Temples, Hazara Rama Temple, Archaeological Museum, Queen’s Bath, Elephant Stables, Lotus Mahal, Stepped Tank, etc.
- Marvel at the mesmerizing idol of Lakshmi Narasimha
- Attend a 3-Day Hampi Festival
Best time to visit: October to March
Mysore
The illustrious capital of the Kingdom of Mysore, Mysore is a wonderful city found right at the foot of Chamundi slopes. Known as the ‘Social Capital of Karnataka’, the town is notable, beguiling and genuinely hypnotizing. Any plans of visiting Karnataka must incorporate a visit to Mysore for the experience of illustrious glory and stroll through the times past.
Ruled till date by the royal Wodeyar family, the town still maintains decorum of the blue blood, in addition of being one of the most impressive tourist destinations in India. Be it the magnificent Mysore Dasara festival, the massive Mysore Palace or the famous Dosa which gets its name from, the delights do not have an end.
Highlights
- Mysore Dasara Parade
- Enjoy strolls through Brindavan Gardens
- Shop for silk sarees from Government Silk Weaving Factory
- Wildlife spotting at Mysore Zoo
- Pay a visit to Jagmohan Palace
- Take a tour of Folklore Museum
Best time to visit: October to March, especially during the festival of Dasara.
Pattadakal
A notable vacationer goal in Karnataka, Pattadakal is a demonstration of the building ability of the Chalukya line. Known for its noteworthy sanctuaries, recorded as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, Pattadakal is a fortune for social fans.
Walk among the ruins of the monuments that were built between the 4th to 8th centuries, the peak of the Chalukya Empire. Of note is the renowned Chalukya style of architecture containing elements of both South Indian (Dravidian) and North Indian (Nagara) styles of architecture. Sightseeing in Pattadakal is more of a journey back into the old days.
Highlights
- Sightseeing Virupaksha Temple, Sangameshwara Temple, Mallikarjuna Temple, Kashivisvanatha Temple & Galganatha Temple.
- Attend the Virupaksha Car Festival
- Marvel at the engraved masterpieces of tales from Ramayana and Mahabharata
Best time to visit: October to March
Halebidu
Another recognition of a wonderful period of history of Karnataka, next we proceed onward to Halebidu. The wonderful city of the previous Hoysala Empire, the town is one of the hypnotizing vacation spots in South India. The sanctuary is popular for one of the Hoysala sanctuaries that have been named as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.
The architecture and designs are so impressive that one is left in sheer awe of the prowess of artisans of the earlier era. Also, if the muse behind the creation is ethereal then there is no doubt the masterpiece would be a beauty beyond words. The temples are unmissable, and for a better understanding so is the museum in the town.
Highlights
- Walk through the beautiful Hoysala Temples of Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara
- Marvel at the impressive Shantaleswara Temple
- Learn about the Halebidu Archeological ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Best time to visit: October to March
Gokarna
A heaven for sea shore sweethearts, Gokarna is an absolute necessity visit vacationer goal in Karnataka. Including dazzling scenes, the town is favored by both the travelers too the flower children. Master Shiva is profoundly respected here and therefore, Gokarna stays thronged with guests looking for salvation and holiness.
Many legends are associated with Gokarna making its history quite interesting. Shivratri is the major festival celebrated with great zeal in the temple town.
Highlights
- A number of sacred temples make the town rank amongst one of the seven sacred pilgrimages for Hindus. Pay homage at the shrines to seek the blessings.
- Enjoy peaceful beach holidays.
- Visit the very famous Mahabaleshwar Temple.
- Excursion to Kumta and Ankola.
- Partake in water sports
- Trekking at Yaana
Best time to visit: November to February
Jag Falls
Settled on the outskirts of North Kanara and Shimoga, the Jog Falls presents an incredible sight. With Sharavati River diving into four falls to be specific Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket, the appeal of the Jog Falls bends over. Every one of the four group up together to shape a colossal cascade. An enjoyment to the eyes, the falls offers a life-changing encounter.
If the formation of a rainbow is something that delights you, then you must plan a trip to Jog Falls in monsoons. The scenic backdrop of lush surroundings is an added plus. Reckoned as the second highest waterfall in India, the Jog Falls is the place where nature resides at its best.
Highlights
- Hike to the base of the waterfall.
- Enjoy a plunge in the water.
- Soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
- Explore other nearby waterfalls
- Trekking
Best time to visit: August to December
Udupi
Spotted with numerous sea shores and sanctuaries, Udupi is one of the well known traveler goals in Karnataka. Known for a famous Krishna sanctuary named as Kanakanakhindhi, the city pulls in various visitors. The grand spot to visit in Karnataka is tucked between the purplish blue Arabian Sea and the lavish mountains.
Udupi cuisines are world famous and thus is a haven for foodies. A number of festivals are celebrated here but the Paryaya festival stands out amongst the rest.
Highlights
- Cherish the laid-back vibe.
- Explore the unexplored forests.
- Marvel at beautiful edifices that showcase striking architecture.
- Temple hopping.
- Visit St. Mary’s Island.
- Enjoy at several beaches.
- Savor the Udupi cuisine.
- City Shopping.
Best time to visit: August to December
Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is the spot to be to love a perfect departure from the city life. Considered the best-stayed quiet of Karnataka, the spot is gradually developing as a place of interest. Bragging off the rich authentic heritage having a place with the time of Tipu Sultan, the goal is an unquestionable requirement visit for the history buffs. Displaying dreamlike excellence, the spot is a perfect end of the week escape from Bangalore.
Highlights
- Explore the Tipu Sultan Trail
- Pay homage to various temples
- Visit Tipu Sultan’s summer residence
- Enjoy Paragliding
- Go for cycling
- Excursion to Tipu’s Drop
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Kabini
Home to the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Kabini offers ideal break to the picture takers and creature darlings. When a private chasing cabin of the British, the spot presently catches the eye of all the nature sweethearts. Forcing cascades and rich greenery presents a visual retreat to the eyes. Where nature dwells at its best can make you begin to look all starry eyed at it in a split second.
A number of resorts account for a comfortable stay and amazing holidays in Kabini. You can completely relax your mind and soul at the Kabini resorts, one of the best attractions in Karnataka.
Highlights
- Jungle Safari at Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
- Admire the endless charm of nature
- Boating
- Elephant Safari
- A trip to Nagarhole National Park
- Shopping
- Visit Kabini Dam
- Bird Watching
- Campfire
- Nature Walks
Best time to visit: October to May
Belur
Belur, the memorable city was managed by the Hoysalas for about 300 years. It was during their rule that the city was gave with various landmarks and sanctuaries. Depicting staggering figures and imaginative engineering, these design ponders make Belur an absolute necessity visit goal in Karnataka. Among the different appeal, Chennakeshava Temple is genuinely astounding and brings a significant part of the distinction for the spot.
Considered as the twin city of Halebidu, Belur is nestled along the banks of Yagachi River. It is due to the cultural significance and peerless history that Belur enjoys the title of modern Vaikuntha on the Earth.
Highlights
- Explore the Gravity Pillar
- Visit the Kappe Chennigaraya Temple
- Pay homage at the Veeranarayana Temple
- Marvel at the Channakeshava temple
- Excursion to the Yagachi Dam
- Observe the Madanikas
- Day trip to Halebidu
- Visit Belavadi
Best time to visit: October to April
Shravanabelagola
Figured as a significant Jain journey community, Shravanabelagola is additionally one of the significant vacationer goals in Karnataka. Named after a lake situated in the midst of the town, the spot is notable for a colossal Bahubali Statue of Lord Gomateshwara. Also, a wealth of the Jain sanctuaries adds a profound vibe to the strict legacy. Roosted at a stature of 3350 feet over the ocean level, the humble community stands apart for its picturesque magnificence.
Highlights
- Attend the Mahamasthakabhisheka, performed once every 12 years
- Trek to the Indragiri Hill
- Visit Chandragiri Hill
- Seek blessings of Lord Gomateshwara
- Excursion to the Odegal Basti
- Shopping at the Tuesday Market
- Marvel at the Bhandara Basadi
Best time to visit: October to March
Bijapur
Loaded with landmarks of verifiable legacy, Bijapur takes you on a time travel to the yesteryears. When known as the Vijaypura, the legacy city was established by the Chalukyas. Minarets, mosques and fortifications of the city typify the radiant past. Bijapur or the ‘City of Victory’ is otherwise called the space of various societies.
Highlights
- Explore the Gol Gumbaz
- Pay homage at the Jumma Masjid
- Visit the Ibrahim Rauza
- Marvel at the Citadel
- Take a trip to the Mithari and Asar Mahals
- Spare some time for shopping
- Excursion to the Malik-e-Maidan
- Cherish amazing views from the Upli Buruj
Best time to visit: October to February