karnataka tour guide

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Karnataka Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Karnataka. We've got 95 trips going to Karnataka, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. The most popular month to go is May, which has the most tour departures.

95 Karnataka tour packages with 32 reviews

• Wildlife & Nature Photography
• Christmas & New Year

Heritage and Wildlife Trail: Discovering Mysore, Bandipur, and Somanathpur

Both driver and guide we knowledgeable and professional.

• In-depth Cultural

Bangalore & Mysore Tour With Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari

We Recently went on the Bangalore & Mysore Tour With Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari and it was an amazing experience. The tour included everything from wildlife safaris in the national parks of Nagarhole and Coonoor to a visit to the iconic Mysore Palace and the beautiful Lalbagh Botanical Garden. The safaris were the highlights of the tour, with sightings of elephants, sloth bears, leopards, and even the elusive Bengal Tiger! The tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly, and they made sure we had an unforgettable experience. The accommodations were comfortable and the food was delicious. Overall, this was an amazing tour and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of South India.

• Sightseeing

Customized Culture and Beach Holiday in India with Daily Departure

We had a very interesting tour with an excellent driver (Mr Anthony) who made us comfortable and very knowledgeable guides everywhere we visited. Our favourite Hotel was in Mysore although all were good and the visit to Halebidu was probably my highlight as the temples were magnificent with such elaborate carvings. Goa was not as relaxing as I imagined. We enjoyed the beach but didn't want to lay in the sun too long so other than shopping we didn't find it as attractive as we had expected. Overall all it was a very good introduction to a country we had not visited before. The arrangements for meeting the drivers and guides worked well for us despite us arriving and departing before/after the 11 day tour so thanks to Linda and other support staff this worked well.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Royal Retreat and Jungle Safari: Bangalore to Mysore & Nagarhole Expedition

The Southern Feast - Karnataka & Goa

It was a wonderful experience for us. All your arrangements were up to the mark. All hotels and transportation arrangements were excellent. Thanks to MTA Team.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Karnataka Wildlife Tour With Kabini From Bangalore All inclusive

The Karnataka Wildlife Tour with Kabini from Bangalore and it was an incredible experience. The tour was all inclusive, which made it very convenient and hassle-free. The tour was well-organized and the itinerary was perfectly planned. The highlight of the tour was definitely the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a beautiful and serene place, with lush green forests and a variety of animals and birds. We were lucky enough to spot some tigers, elephants, and various species of birds during our safari. The safari was well-guided and the naturalist accompanying us was very knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife. Apart from the safari, we also visited other wildlife sanctuaries such as Bandipur and Nagarhole. Each sanctuary had its own unique flora and fauna, and we got to see a wide range of animals and birds. The accommodations provided were comfortable and well-maintained, giving us a chance to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring. The tour also included a visit to the beautiful city of Mysore, known for its grand palaces and rich history. We got to witness the grandeur of the Mysore Palace and explore the local markets for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. The best part about the tour was the all-inclusive aspect. We didn't have to worry about anything as everything from transportation, accommodation, meals, and safari fees were taken care of. It allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience and enjoy every moment without any worries. The tour guide was very friendly and accommodating, making sure that everyone in the group had a great time. The whole experience was well-organized and we didn't face any delays or issues throughout the tour. Overall, the Karnataka Wildlife Tour with Kabini from Bangalore was an amazing experience and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of Karnataka. The all-inclusive package makes it convenient and hassle-free, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience. I would definitely go on this tour again in the future.

Karnataka & Kerala - Art, Culture & Nature

This is a good tour if you are interested in Hindu culture and religion as it focuses in temples and myths of the religion.

4 Days Wildlife Tour of Mysore Bandipur from Bangalore(ALL INCLUSIVE)

No word for describe our journey in india.we went on a 4-day wildlife tour of Mysore Bandipur from Bangalore and it was an unforgettable experience. From start to finish, the tour was well-organized and exceeded my expectations. Our tour guide, Mr.Hemender Singh was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the wildlife and the region, making the tour even more enjoyable. He made sure to keep us informed and entertained throughout the journey. The itinerary was well-planned, with a perfect balance of safari rides, nature walks, and cultural experiences. We started our first day with a visit to the Mysore Palace, which was a stunning architectural masterpiece. Then we headed to the Bandipur National Park for our first safari ride. It was an incredible experience to see the animals in their natural habitat, including tigers, elephants, and various species of birds. The second day was spent exploring the beautiful city of Mysore, visiting the Chamundi Hills, St. Philomena's Church, and the famous Devaraja Market. We also got to witness the traditional Mysore silk weaving process, which was a unique and interesting experience. On the third day, we went on a nature walk at the Bandipur National Park, where we got to see different types of flora and fauna, including some rare species. The highlight of the day was the evening safari ride, where we spotted a herd of elephants bathing in a nearby river. The last day of the tour was spent at the historic Srirangapatna Fort, followed by a visit to the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Our guide Mr. Kumar made sure to point out different species of birds and their unique characteristics, making it an educational and fun experience. The accommodations provided were comfortable and clean, and the food provided was delicious and authentic. I also appreciated the fact that the tour was all-inclusive, so we didn't have to worry about any additional expenses. Overall, I highly recommend this 4-day wildlife tour of Mysore Bandipur from Bangalore. It was a well-planned and well-executed tour, providing a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and adventure. I came back from this tour with a newfound appreciation for nature and wildlife and some amazing memories. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!

Magnificent 10 Days South India Temple Tour Package from Bangalore(ALL INCLUSIVE)

I booked this trip online through Travelcon for 10 Days South India Temple Tour from Australia. My Australian travel agent was a different one but he gave me +91 9758823555, Hemender Singh who was contact for any travel related issues during the trip in India. It was an amazing 10 Days tour and all the person I met during the trip were awesome. Even they were guides,Driver, people at different hotels. Hemender was awesome,quiet helpful and he always checked with us to ensure that everything was doing good.I felt that cities in India are much safer to travel.We really enjoyed interacting with the people unless you can understand their English well because of different accent. I would highlyrecommend "Travelcon" for other visitors also.

6 Days of Hampi Badami Aihole Pattadakal Tour

• €126 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Goa Hampi Badami Tour

Private Luxury Guided Tour to Hampi (From Hyderabad with flights): Monuments and Fascinating Ruins of a Lost Kingdom

Private Luxury Guided Tour to Hampi (From Delhi with flights): Monuments and Fascinating Ruins of a Lost Kingdom

Best of Karnataka and Goa

Karnataka Heritage Tour

What people love about karnataka tours.

I have to go on a Bangalore & Mysore tour with Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari and it was an unforgettable experience. From the bustling city of Bangalore to the tranquil forests of Nagarhole and the charming town of Coonoor, this tour truly had something for everyone. Our tour started in Bangalore, also known as the Silicon Valley of India. The city was a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, with its skyscrapers and ancient temples coexisting harmoniously. Our tour guide took us to some of the must-see spots in the city, including the famous Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. We also got to taste some delicious local food at the famous food street in VV Puram. Next, we headed to Nagarhole National Park, one of the best wildlife reserves in India. The safari through the park was a thrilling experience as we got to see a variety of animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and many more in their natural habitat. We were lucky enough to spot a family of elephants crossing the road right in front of our jeep. The park also had a beautiful river running through it, making the scenery even more picturesque. After our wildlife adventure, we traveled to the charming hill station of Coonoor. The drive through the Nilgiri mountains was breathtaking and Coonoor itself was a quaint little town with lush green valleys and tea plantations. We took a safari through the nearby Mudumalai National Park and spotted many exotic birds and animals like peacocks, deer, and even a leopard. The highlight of the tour for me was the visit to Mysore, also known as the City of Palaces. The Mysore Palace was a sight to behold with its intricate architecture and rich history. We also visited the famous Chamundeshwari Temple and watched the mesmerizing light and sound show at the Brindavan Gardens. Throughout the tour, our guide was knowledgeable and helpful, providing us with interesting facts and stories about each place we visited. The accommodations and transportation were also top-notch, making our journey comfortable and hassle-free. Overall, the Bangalore & Mysore tour with Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari was an incredible experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking to explore the beauty and diversity of South India. It was a perfect blend of city life, wildlife, and nature, making it a well-rounded and unforgettable trip. I can't wait to go back and explore more of this beautiful region.

We had a very interesting tour with an excellent driver (Mr Anthony) who made us comfortable and very knowledgeable guides everywhere we visited. Our favourite Hotel was in Mysore although all were good and the visit to Halebidu was probably my highlight as the temples were magnificent with such elaborate carvings. Goa was not as relaxing as I imagined. We enjoyed the beach but didn't want to lay in the sun too long so other than shopping we didn't find it as attractive as we had expected. Overall all it was a very good introduction to a country we had not visited before. The arrangements for meeting the drivers and guides worked well for us despite us arriving and departing before/after the 11 day tour so thanks to Linda and other support staff this worked well.

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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/a>. 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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Karnataka Wildlife Tour Package with Jungle Safari

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

Ideal duration: 4 - 12 days

Best Time: October to April Read More

Major Airports: Bangalore, Mangalore Read more about Airports in Karnataka

"One State, Many Worlds"

Karnataka, india.

Ranked the 4th most popular tourist state in the country, Karnataka has a bouquet of attractions to offer you. Expanded from Belgaum in the North to Bangalore in the south, it has something to offer to everybody; from beautiful landscapes to rich cultural heritage, serene beaches and scrumptious food, Karnataka is indeed a world in itself! The Malayalis, the Tamilians, Konkanis, Kannadigas, even the Muslims and Christians have made Karnataka their home.

It has the second highest number of protected monuments in India, Hampi being one which houses the maximum of them, was the capital of Vijayanagar Empire. The world's largest monolith structure, the statue of Lord Gomteshwar in Shravanabelagola sees tens of thousands of pilgrims during Mahamastakabhisheka festival every 12 years. Apart from history, Karnataka is also rich in nature's bounty and wildlife. It has 5 National Parks and over 25 wildlife sanctuaries of which Bandipur and Nagarhole national parks are most famous. Bengaluru, the capital of the state and the "Silicon Valley of India" is known as the city of startups and IT companies and attracts thousands of tourists every year. Coorg is one of the top destinations in Karnataka for its coffee plantations. Mysore, famous for the Mysore Palace, Hampi, famous for the ruins of Vijayanagara Empire and Chikmagalur, a hill station in the Malnad region of Karnataka are a few other popular places among the tourists.

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Considered a forerunner in the Information Technology development in the country, Karnataka doesn't just attract leisure tourists. People come here from far and wide for business, wildlife exploration, bird watching, rejuvenation and culture travel.

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Travelling within the state can be quite a hassle in the absence of a well-placed public transport system.

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Created in 1956 from the princely state of Mysore , Karnataka – a derivation of the word karu nadu meaning “black soil” in the local language, Kannada – marks a transition zone between central India and the Dravidian deep south.

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Along its borders with Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, a string of mediaeval walled towns studded with domed mausoleums and minarets recall the era when this part of the Deccan was a Muslim stronghold. The coastal and hill districts that dovetail with Kerala are, in contrast, quintessential Hindu south India, lush with tropical vegetation and soaring temple gopuram.

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13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

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The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Karnataka’s principal attractions lie at opposite ends of the state, with a handful of less-visited places dotted along the coast between Goa and Kerala .

Road and rail routes dictate that most itineraries take in the state capital, Bengaluru (Bangalore), a go-ahead, modern city that epitomises the aspirations of the country’s new middle class, with glittering malls, fast-food outlets and nightlife unrivalled outside Mumbai .

The state’s second city, Mysuru (Mysore), appeals more for its Raj-era ambience, nineteenth-century palaces and vibrant produce and incense markets. It also lies within easy reach of several important historical monuments, notably the ruined Vijayanagar city at Hampi, whose lost temples and derelict palaces stand amid an arid, rocky landscape of surreal beauty.

Fed by the southwest monsoon and draped in dense deciduous forests, the Western Ghats, run in an unbroken line along the state’s palm-fringed coast, impeding the path of the rain clouds east.

As a result, the landscape of the interior – comprising the southern apex of the triangular Deccan trap, known as the Mysore Plateau, is considerably drier. Three of south India’s most sacred rivers, the Kaveri (also spelt Cauvery), Tungabhadra and Krishna, flow across this sun-baked terrain, draining east to the Bay of Bengal.

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Bangalore, India © Shutterstock

Best things to do in Karnataka

#1 Explore Bengaluru (Bangalore)

This booming silicon city offers the best shopping, nightlife and dining this side of Mumbai, not to mention a few great parks, plus the odd palace and temple.

Don’t miss Cubbon Park, a welcome green space in the heart of the city, shaded by massive clumps of bamboo, and presided over by a statue of Queen Victoria.

Several prominent historic landmarks are located within its sprawling expanse, including the State Central Library, one of the oldest and largest in the country, housed in the impressive red Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, and the colonnaded, red-brick High Court of Karnataka (Attara Kacheri).

Inspired by the splendid gardens of the Mughals and the French botanical gardens at Puducherry in Tamil Nadu, the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens designed by Sultan Haider Ali set in 1760 laying are also worth visiting.

#2 Seek out Mysuru (Mysore) the state’s second city

The sandalwood city oozes old-world charm and has lots to see, including the opulent Mysore Palace. A centre of sandalwood-carving, silk and incense production, and dotted with palaces and gardens, Mysore, officially renamed Mysuru in 2014, is one of south India’s more appealing cities and its cultural capital. It remains an old-fashioned place, changed by neither an IT boom nor its well-established status as a top international yoga destination.

That said, the erstwhile capital of the Wadiyar rajas can be underwhelming at first blush: upon stumbling off a bus or train you are smacked by a cacophony of tooting, careening buses, bullock carts, bikes and tongas. Still, give it a few days and Mysuru will cast a spell on you.

Stroll past the evocative, if dilapidated, pre-Independence buildings lining market areas such as Ashoka Road and Sayaji Rao Road lend an air of faded grandeur to the vibrant city centre.

#3 Seek out two of Halebidu’s Hoysala Temples

Halebidu (formerly Halebid), 32 km northwest of Hassan, was the second capital of the powerful Hoysala dynasty, which held sway over south Karnataka from the eleventh until the early fourteenth centuries and its peak stretched from coast to coast. Once known as Dora Samudra (Gateway to the Sea), the capital city became Hale-bidu, or “Old City”, after successive raids by the Delhi sultanate between 1311 and 1326 reduced it to rubble.

Despite the sacking, several large Hoysala temples survive, two of which, the Hoysaleshvara and Kedareshvara, are superb, covered in exquisite carvings and are worth exploring.

#4 Walk under the gigantic gopura at Chennakeshava temple

Located northwest of Hassan, on the banks of the Yagachi River, Belur was the Hoysala capital during the eleventh and twelfth centuries, its importance marked by the gateway tower at Chennakeshava temple.

Still in active worship, the Chennakeshava temple is a fine and early example of the singular Hoysala style, built by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 to celebrate his conversion from Jainism, victory over Chola forces at Talakad and his independence from the Chalukyas.

Today, its grey-stone gopura, or gateway tower, soars above a small, bustling market town – a popular pilgrimage site from October to December, when busloads of Ayappan devotees stream through en route to Sabarimala. The Car Festival held around March or April takes place over twelve days and has a pastoral feel, attracting farmers from the surrounding countryside who conduct a bullock cart procession through the streets to the temple.

Inside the Chennakeshava Complex, the Andal Temple pillars entrance. Belur, Karnataka, India © Shutterstock

#5 Ditch Goa for Gokarna

This vibrant Hindu holy town is blessed with atmospheric temples and exquisite crescent beaches and is ideal for serious unwinding. Among India’s most scenically situated sacred sites, Gokarna lies between a broad white-sand beach and the verdant foothills of the Western Ghats.

Yet this compact little coastal town – a Shaivite centre for more than two millennia – remained largely “undiscovered” by Western tourists until the early 1990s, when it began to attract neo-hippies fleeing the commercialization of Goa, just over 60 km north.

Now firmly on the tourist map, the town retains a charming local character, as the Hindu pilgrims pouring through still far outnumber the foreigners who flock here in winter. A hotchpotch of wood-fronted houses and red terracotta roofs, Gokarna is clustered around a long L-shaped bazaar. Its broad main road – known as Car Street – runs west to the beach, which is a sacred site in its own right.

#6 Find serenity in ruins at Hampi

Among a surreal landscape of golden-brown boulders and leafy banana fields are the crumbling remains of the Vijayanagar kingdom. The “City of Victory,” Vijayanagar, better known as Hampi (the name of the main local village), spills from the south bank of the River Tungabhadra.

This once dazzling Hindu capital was devastated by a six-month Muslim siege in the sixteenth century. Only stone, brick and stucco structures survived the ensuing sack – monolithic deities, crumbling houses and abandoned temples dominated by towering gopuras – as well as the irrigation system that channelled water to the temples.

The serene riverside setting and air of magic that still lingers over the site, sacred for centuries before a city was founded here, make it one of India’s most extraordinary locations. Many find it difficult to leave and spend weeks chilling out in cafés, wandering to whitewashed hilltop temples and gazing at the spectacular sunsets.

#7 Size up the splendid dome at Vijayapura (Bijapur)

Known as the “Agra of the South” for its splendid Islamic architecture, most famously the vast dome of the Gol Gumbaz. The dry and dusty far northern region of Karnataka is as distinct culturally as it is in landscape. Predominantly Muslim, at least in the larger settlements, it boasts some wonderful Islamic architecture and shrines in the venerable city of Vijayapura (Bijapur), bustling Kalaburagi (Gulbarga) and rather forlorn Bidar.

#8 Escape the tourists, make a beeline for Bidar

This rarely visited Muslim outpost in the remote northeast of the state is famed for its bidri metalwork and magnificent mediaeval monuments. Lost in the far northeast of Karnataka, Bidar is a provincial backwater known for its fighter-pilot training base, but visitors will discover its gently decaying monuments, its robust fifteenth-century fort and the most important Sikh shrine in Karnataka, Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib.

The town, half of whose 210,000-strong population is Muslim, has a gritty charm, with narrow red-dirt streets ending at arched gates and open vistas across the plains. Littered with tile-fronted tombs, rambling fortifications and old mosques, it merits a visit if you’re travelling between Hyderabad (150 km east) and Vijayapura, although you should expect little in the way of Western comforts, and lots of curious approaches from locals.

Mysore, India © Shutterstock

From the bustling tech hub of Bengaluru to the tranquil hills of Coorg and the ancient ruins of Hampi, Karnataka provides an enchanting selection of places to stay that cater to every traveller's preferences.

Due to the great number of business visitors it receives, Bengaluru offers a wealth of upmarket lodgings, as well as serviced apartments. Decent budget accommodation is also available, mostly concentrated around the Central Bus Stand and railway station.

Mysuru (Mysore)

Staying near the city centre allows easy access to attractions like the palace, Chamundi Hills, and the vibrant Devaraja Market. Finding a room is only a problem during Dasara and the Christmas/New Year period, when the popular places are booked up weeks in advance and prices predictably soar. Checkout is generally at noon.

Kodagu (Coorg)

Kodagu has a huge range of stay options from rustic cottages to ritzy resorts, though its charm lies in the profusion of traditional homestays, many in plantation bungalows, which offer the legendary hospitality of the Kodavas.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its ancient ruins and historical significance. It's best to stay in the Hampi Bazaar area or nearby Hospet town, which has a range of accommodation options .

Located on the coastal belt of Karnataka, Mangalore offers beautiful beaches and a rich cultural blend. Staying in areas like Panambur, Kadri, or the city centre provides access to beaches, temples, and local cuisine.

Known for its pristine beaches and religious significance, Gokarna is a tranquil coastal town. Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Gokarna Main Beach are popular areas for accommodation .

This coastal town is famous for its ancient temples and delicious Udupi cuisine. Staying near the city centre or close to Malpe Beach is convenient for exploring the town and nearby attractions.

Browse the places to stay in Karnataka.

Gokarna, India © Shutterstock

Karnataka has numerous transportation options available, so whether you’re navigating the bustling city streets of Bengaluru or embarking on scenic drives through picturesque landscapes, the state’s well-connected network of roads, railways, and airways help you to get around.

Karnataka has an extensive rail network connecting major cities and towns. It's advisable to book train tickets in advance, especially for long-distance journeys, to secure your preferred class and seat. Hubballi is the state's major railway junction.

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates a vast network of buses connecting various cities, towns, and even remote areas within the state.

KSRTC buses are a reliable and affordable option for intercity travel and reaching popular destinations

If in Bengaluru, there is now a metro system. The east– west Purple Line links the main train and bus stations (via City Railway and Majestic stations) with points east including Cubbon Park, MG Road and Indiranagar.

The north–south Green Line travels south via Yeshwantpur before intersecting with the Purple Line at Majestic and continuing south via Chikpete, KR Market and Lalbagh. Payment is by single-use tokens or Varshik smart cards, which give a slight discount.

By auto-rickshaw

The easiest way of getting around big cities is by metered auto-rickshaw. Most meters do work and drivers are usually willing to use them, although you will occasionally be asked for a flat fare, especially during rush hour.

You can book chauffeur-driven cars and taxis through several state-wide agencies or use Ola or Uber.

Gol Gumbaz tomb in Bijapur (Vijayapura), Karnataka in India © Shutterstock

To truly experience Karnataka, you will need a minimum of 7 to 10 days. This will give you time to visit popular destinations in like Bangalore, where you can spend two days immersed in the city's bustling atmosphere and visit iconic landmarks such as Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace.

Then head to Mysore for two days. Marvel at the grandeur of Mysore Palace, take a trip to the serene Chamundi Hills, and explore After that, make your way to Coorg, a picturesque hill station renowned for its coffee plantations or venture into Nagarhole National Park for a brush with wildlife.

Then visit Hampi for its awe-inspiring ruins and temples. Conclude your trip with two days in Gokarna, a coastal paradise. Unwind on the pristine beaches, pay a visit to the revered Mahabaleshwar Temple, and enjoy water activities like swimming or beachside yoga.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Check our India itineraries .

Coastal Karnataka is one of the wettest regions in India, its climate is dominated by the seasonal monsoon, which sweeps in from the southwest in June, dumping an average of 4m of rain on the coast before it peters out in late September.

October to April is therefore the best time to visit. Bengaluru and Mysuru, to the south of the Deccan Plateau, have a temperate climate with mild weather most of the year. The northern tracts and the coast get really hot in summer (April–June), with monsoon bringing some respite between July and October.

Karnataka also has several large festivals including:

• Hampi Utsav (early Nov). Celebrated since Vijayanagar times and revived by the Government of Karnataka, this three-day festival is a cultural showcase of music, dance, costume dramas, puppet shows, fireworks, processions and kushti (wrestling) that once received royal patronage.
• Makar Sankranti (mid-Jan). The transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) is when the harvest festival (suggi habba) is celebrated. Temple festivities, cultural programmes and kite-flying, especially in northern Karnataka, mark the occasion.
• Bangalore Karaga (April). Bengaluru’s oldest festival is celebrated over eleven days around the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple in the old city. The festival honours Draupadi, considered a form of Shakti, and is named after the karaga or large floral pyramid borne by the appointed carrier during a night-time procession to the accompaniment of music and acrobatics.
• Mysore Dasara (Sept/Oct). The biggest of them all, Karnataka’s naada habba (state festival) culminates in a grand procession on its tenth and final day.
• Kadalekai Parishe (Dec/Jan). Bengaluru’s unique groundnut fair, held near the Bull Temple in Basavanagudi with rural produce on sale.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Vitthala temple, Hampi © Shutterstock

From international flights to domestic transportation options, here’s how to get to Karnataka.

The quickest and most convenient way to reach Karnataka from distant locations is by air. The state has several airports, including the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is the busiest airport in Karnataka.

Other helpful airports for travellers include Bellary, 60km from Hampi, and Mangaluru, which has international connections.

Karnataka has an extensive railway network, making train travel a popular and affordable option for arriving here. Hubballi is the state's major railway junction with trains from Northern India and Maharashtra .

Karnataka has an extensive network of national and state highways, many of which have been recently upgraded.

Find out the best ways to get to India .

Discover more places in India

• Jog Falls, Karnataka
• Mangalore, India
• Mysore (Mysuru), India
• Udupi, India

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written by Andy Turner

updated 05.06.2023

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THE 10 BEST Karnataka Tours & Excursions

Karnataka tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. (Mysuru) Mysore Day Out - A Royal Experience Private Tour from Bangalore

2. The Best of Mysore/Mysuru, Somnathpur & Srirangapatna in a Day

3. Bangalore Through the Ages - Full-Day Tour with Lunch

4. Tipu Palace + Koté Vishnu + Fort + KR Market + Jain Temple = Bengaluru Pété Walk

5. Royal Mysore tour from Bangalore in private car with guide and lunch

6. Experience Bangalore - City Tour, Authentic Food & market (Food/Culture/History)

7. Bandipur wildlife and Mysore experience in 2 days from Bangalore

8. Private Indian Cooking Class and Meal in Bangalore Home

9. Bangalore city tour with a guide in private car and lunch

10. Private Full-Day Bangalore City Tour

11. World heritage site of Belur & Halebid with temple sculptures

12. World heritage Somnathpur sculptures and Talakadu temple mystery

13. Bengaluru Pete City Market Half-Day Walking Tour

14. 3 day private tour of Hampi from Bangalore by flight with guide and hotel

15. 1-Day Trip to Taj Mahal, Agra from Bangalore with Both Side Commercial Flights

16. Birding & Bird Photography tour in Bangalore

17. Private South Indian Cooking Class in Bangalore with a Local

18. Private Mercara Coorg Coffee and Spice Estate Tour

19. Explore World Heritage Sites Belur & Halebidu + Shravanabelagola

20. Bandipur Sanctuary Tigers & Elephants

21. Mysuru Day Tour- A Cultural and Offbeat experience from Bengaluru

22. Full Day Private Tour of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal from Hampi

23. Full-Day Nandi Hills Countryside Tour by Bike

24. Best of Mysore (Guided Full Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car)

25. Mysore & Srirangapatna Day Tour from Bengaluru with Guide & Lunch

26. Coorg The Scotland of India from Bangalore

27. Old neighbourhood Walk - Half-Day Tour

28. High Ropes Course in Madikeri

29. See Bangalore through my eyes (Cultural / Historical / Walking Tour)

30. 2-Night Private Taj Mahal and Agra Tour from Cruise Port

What travelers are saying.

Explore the India that you might find in old texts and modern books by visiting Karnataka. This state resides on the west coast of India, which means that beaches are available for relaxation any time. In fact, it's possible to lay out on the beach in the morning and see an exotic animal in the nearby dense forest by the late afternoon. Karnataka includes many preserves that are home to tigers, elephants and many more animals. It's truly a world that's perfect for animal lovers.

Famous national parks are big draws for tourists, including the Nagarhole, Bannerghatta and Bandipura locations. Learn about the local flora and fauna at these preserves because your support helps them with global visibility and financial donations. Consider your visit's timing too. Avoid the hottest part of the year by traveling to Karnataka after the monsoons or during the winter season.

You can hike within the parks or visit the local towns without too much heat impacting your day. Don't forget to see the many temples that call Karnataka home too. The Hoysala temples, for example, will teach visitors about architecture and history at the same time. Do your research beforehand to pick the perfect retreat in Karnataka.

Planning for a trip?

Places to visit in karnataka.

Travel Around The World Blog

Karnataka Travel Guide – Sightseeing, Activities and Packages

Embark on a fascinating trip via Karnataka with our last journey guide. Uncover hidden gems, discover iconic sightseeing spots, and dive into exciting activities. Whether you are a records enthusiast, nature lover, or journey seeker, our weblog offers insights to curate your best itinerary. Discover the magic of Karnataka with specialist recommendations and locate the perfect tour applications for an unforgettable experience.

About Karnataka- Karnataka, a southwestern nation in India, is a fascinating combination of wealthy heritage, various landscapes, and brilliant culture. Home to ancient wonders like Hampi and Mysuru, the kingdom boasts historical temples, palaces, and herbal marvels such as the Western Ghats. The bustling cities of Bengaluru and Mysuru exhibit modernity alongside tradition. Karnataka is a haven for journey enthusiasts, supplying trekking in the Western Ghats, flora and fauna safaris in Bandipur National Park, and serene seashores alongside the Arabian Sea. With delectable cuisine, dynamic festivals, and heat hospitality, Karnataka welcomes traffic to discover its multifaceted charm.

Activities And Things to Do In Karnataka

Karnataka, a country in the southwestern phase of India, is a treasure trove of various landscapes, wealthy cultural heritage, and a plethora of things to do for travelers. Whether you are a journey seeker, records enthusiast, or nature lover, Karnataka gives a huge array of experiences that cater to each taste.

1. Explore the Ruins of Hampi:

Step lower back in time as you wander via the fascinating ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic temples, tricky carvings, and the surreal panorama create a special ecosystem that transports you to a bygone era.

2. Trek in the Western Ghats:

For the adventurous souls, the Western Ghats in Karnataka grant superb trekking opportunities. Places like Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Kodachadri provide scenic trails amidst lush greenery, presenting an ideal break out for nature enthusiasts.

3. Wildlife Safari in Bandipur National Park:

Experience the thrill of a natural world safari in Bandipur National Park. Home to a large variety of vegetation and fauna, along with elephants, tigers, and several fowl species, the park provides an interesting journey for flora and fauna lovers.

4. Visit Mysore Palace:

Immerse yourself in the regal ambiance of Mysuru by journeying the Mysore Palace—Marvel at the beautiful architecture, difficult carvings, and opulence of this historical royal residence.

5. Relax on Gokarna Beaches:

Gokarna, a coastal town, is recognized for its serene beaches. Whether you are looking for solitude on Om Beach or indulging in water sports activities at Kudle Beach, Gokarna gives an ideal mixture of rest and adventure.

6. Witness the Jog Falls:

Nature lovers must no longer leave out Jog Falls, one of the best possible waterfalls in India. The sight of water cascading down the rocky cliffs amidst a lush environment is a breathtaking experience.

7. Admire Belur and Halebid Temples:

Explore the architectural marvels of Belur and Halebid, domestic to notable Hoysala temples. The elaborate craftsmanship and specified carvings make these temples a testament to the inventive brilliance of historic India.

8. Coffee Plantation Tour in Coorg:

Discover the artwork of coffee-making with a plantation tour in Coorg. Walk through the verdant espresso estates, analyze the cultivation process, and take pleasure in freshly brewed espresso amid picturesque surroundings.

9. Visit Udupi for Spiritual Bliss:

Udupi is famous for its spirituality and the Krishna Temple. Experience the divine ambiance, witness the special Paryaya festival, and indulge in the delectable Udupi cuisine.

10. Explore Bangalore’s Urban Vibe:

For those who experience metropolis life, Bangalore (Bengaluru) gives a vivid city experience. Explore tech parks, go to progressive start-ups, and revel in the city’s buzzing nightlife.

Karnataka, with its various experiences, promises a satisfying ride for each and every traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or easy relaxation, this nation has something distinct to offer, making it a must-visit vacation spot for those exploring the numerous tapestry of India.

Top Attractions Of Karnataka Tourism

Karnataka, a gem in the crown of Indian tourism, boasts a myriad of attractions that cater to the diverse interests of travelers. This Karnataka trip guide unveils the top attractions that showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant experiences.

1. Hampi’s Architectural Marvels:

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. Explore the awe-inspiring ruins, intricately carved temples, and the iconic Virupaksha Temple, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

2. Mysore Palace:

A symphony of Indo-Saracenic architecture, Mysore Palace is a regal masterpiece that enchants visitors. Adorned with ornate domes, arches, and vibrant frescoes, the palace offers a glimpse into the opulent history of the Wodeyar dynasty.

3. Coorg’s Lush Coffee Estates:

Embark on a sensory journey through Coorg’s sprawling coffee plantations. A haven for nature lovers, these estates provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and the opportunity to learn about coffee cultivation.

4. Jog Falls’ Majestic Cascade:

Jog Falls, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a spectacle to behold. The cascading waters of the Sharavathi River create a breathtaking panorama, making it one of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in the country.

5. Bandipur National Park Safari:

Wildlife enthusiasts can revel in the thrill of a safari at Bandipur National Park. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and myriad bird species, offering a memorable adventure in the heart of nature.

6. Gokarna’s Tranquil Beaches:

Gokarna, a coastal haven, beckons with its serene beaches. Whether it’s the laid-back atmosphere of Om Beach or the spiritual vibes of Kudle Beach, Gokarna offers a perfect blend of relaxation and seaside exploration.

7. Belur and Halebid Temples:

Delve into the architectural brilliance of the Hoysala dynasty at the temples of Belur and Halebid. The intricate carvings and detailed sculptures narrate stories of a bygone era, making these temples a cultural treasure.

8. Udupi’s Spiritual Oasis:

Udupi, known for its spiritual significance, houses the revered Krishna Temple. The unique Paryaya festival and the delectable Udupi cuisine add a distinctive flavor to this spiritual oasis.

9. Bangalore’s Tech Hub and Culture:

As the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore (Bengaluru) seamlessly blends technology with culture. Explore the city’s vibrant urban life, visit tech parks, and experience the dynamic energy of this bustling metropolis.

This Karnataka trip guide unveils a tapestry of experiences, from historic landmarks to natural wonders, ensuring that every traveler discovers the essence of this South Indian jewel. Whether you’re drawn to ancient ruins, regal palaces, or the tranquility of nature, Karnataka promises an unforgettable journey.

Where to Stay In Karnataka

In Karnataka, numerous lodging preferences cater to each traveler’s preference. From luxurious motels in the serene landscapes of Coorg to heritage motels in Mysuru’s regal ambiance, the nation provides a variety of choices. Coastal getaways like Gokarna boast beachside retreats, whilst cities like Bengaluru supply a combination of upscale inns and budget-friendly stays. Whether you are seeking for a nature retreat, cultural immersion, or city comfort, Karnataka ensures an at-ease and memorable continue-to-be with its substantial array of accommodations, making it handy for vacationers to locate the best lodging to swimsuit their preferences and budget.

Traditional Dress of Karnataka

The ordinary gown of Karnataka displays the cultural variety of the state. For men, the apparel normally consists of a dhoti, acknowledged as ‘Panche’ or ‘Pancha,’ paired with a normal shirt referred to as ‘Panjabi’ or ‘Kurta.’ Women typically put on the stylish ‘Langa Davani,’ a two-piece ensemble consisting of a lengthy skirt and a matching blouse, complemented with the aid of an ornate scarf. The bright colors, tricky patterns, and standard rings worn with the aid of each guy and girl throughout cultural occasions and galas add an exceptional allure to Karnataka’s regular attire, showcasing the wealthy heritage and customs of the region.

How To Travel In Karnataka?

Choose your mode of transportation:.

Decide whether or not to journey by way of road, rail, or air-based totally on your preferences and the distance to your destination.

Book Transportation Tickets:

Reserve bus tickets, teach seats, or flight tickets in increase to invulnerable your favored mode of transportation.

Plan Your Route:

Create an itinerary and design the route you may take to discover the variety of attractions in Karnataka.

Explore by using Road:

If journeying by means of road, think about preferences like buses, taxis, or condo automobiles for bendy and handy neighborhood transportation.

Utilize the Railway Network:

Opt for trains to join essential cities and revel in scenic journeys through Karnataka’s landscapes.

Check Domestic Flights:

If protecting lengthy distances, discover home flights from airports in cities like Bengaluru for a faster journey option.

Navigate Cities with Local Transport:

Within cities, use auto-rickshaws and cabs for nearby transportation to without problems reach your favored destinations.

Book Accommodations in Advance:

Ensure a cozy continue by reserving lodging in advance, thinking about the numerous selections reachable with Karnataka tour packages .

Immerse Yourself in Culture:

Experience Karnataka’s prosperous heritage by way of exploring regular attire, neighborhood cuisine, and cultural events.

Enjoy the Journey:

Finally, have fun with the experience as you navigate Karnataka, exploring historic sites, herbal wonders, and vivid cultural sights at your very own pace.

How To Plan Karnataka Trip?

To format a Karnataka trip, begin by deciding on your desired destinations, thinking about Hampi’s ruins, Mysuru’s palaces, and Coorg’s landscapes. Book transportation and lodging in advance, create a bendy itinerary and discover the state’s numerous cultural and herbal attractions. Immerse yourself in Karnataka’s special appeal for a memorable and enriching journey experience.

Which Place Is Best For 3 Days Trip In Karnataka?

For a memorable 3-day outing in Karnataka, reflect on consideration on Coorg. Explore lush espresso estates, trek through scenic landscapes, and go to terrific sights like Madikeri Fort. Coorg provides the best mixture of nature, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect vacation spot for a brief but satisfying getaway.

Which Is The No 1 Tourist Place In Karnataka?

Determining the “No. 1” traveler vicinity is subjective, however, Hampi is regularly considered a pinnacle vacation spot in Karnataka. The UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts historical ruins, complicated temples, and a special historic ambiance, making it a compelling preference for those in search of a prosperous combo of lifestyle and heritage.

What Are The 5 Famous Places In Karnataka?

Karnataka boasts quite a few well-known places, such as Hampi with its historical ruins, Mysuru known for the opulent Mysore Palace, Coorg’s picturesque espresso plantations, Gokarna’s serene beaches, and the brilliant metropolis of Bengaluru. Each vacation spot gives an awesome experience, showcasing the numerous splendor and traditions of the state.

The Karnataka Travel Guide serves as your key to unlocking the numerous wonders of this southern Indian state. From historical treasures like Hampi to the lush landscapes of Coorg, it offers insights and pointers for an enriching journey. Let Karnataka’s allure captivate you as you embark on a memorable adventure.

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Karnataka Travel Guide

This Karnataka Travel Guide with tips on how to travel there, best time to travel and top places to see in Karnataka is all you need to know.

Karnataka is one of those rare Indian states where you will find something for everyone – from historical palaces to wildlife centuries to ancient ruins.

At its nerve centre, lies the city of Bangalore that is India’s IT hub, and my favorite metro town in India. In its south, lies the much beautiful coastal line and hill districts. In its east, lies the gorgeous Western Ghats – home to world’s finest coffee and spices.

Karnataka Tourist Guide

Throughout all my south India travels, I have travelled to two destinations the most: Kerala (read my Kerala Travel Guide ) and Karnataka. Though to many visitors, the two places may seem similar, in reality, they are very different. From natural beauty to local culture, differences are prominent.

If you will ask me, I will suggest a minimum one-week trip to cover some of the top tourist places in Karnataka . Yet, you cannot see it all in a single trip as the state is quite big.

We will talk about the top places to see in Karnataka down below but let’s first start with a  few useful tips:

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

• Train journeys in Karnataka are mesmerizing. Don’t miss a chance if you get to try one.
• There are many temples to explore in Karnataka For general practice, never visit a temple without having your shoulders or knees covered.
• People in Karnataka are quite religious. Be a little watchful while visiting local families or religious institutions.
• Karnataka is one of the safest Indian places for Solo Female travellers .
• The three major mobile networks: are Airtel, BSNL and Jio.
• Bangalore is the capital town of Karnataka. It is also the hub of all transport.

These were a few travel tips. Now let’s discuss in this Karnataka travel guide some of my favorite tourist destinations.

Top Places To See In Karnataka

Located in the Kodagu District itself, Bylakuppe is popular for its Tibetan population. You can call it the Dharamshala of the south, without the Himalayas. The town has south India’s biggest monastery and accommodates the highest number of Tibetan refugees in India, after Dharamshala.

Read more about it in this blog here: Namdroling Monastery, Bylakuppe .

Bylakuppe may not be one of the popular places to see in Karnataka but in my experience, it is one of the best.

About a 7-hour journey from Bangalore takes you to the city of Hampi – a fantasy world of rocks and ruins.

Hampi is all about an uncountable number of impressive long-lost ruins (most of which are UNESCO world heritage sites of Karnataka) banana plantations and paddy fields, surrounded by big/small size boulders, all perched on top of each other as far as the eye can see.

Other than some, expect a lively atmosphere with a chilled-out and relaxing vibe – thanks to the many western hippies who end up staying in Hampi for weeks and months. See this blog about Hampi photos to get a better idea about what to expect from Hampi.

Read any Karnataka travel guide and you will find repeated mentions of Hampi in it. Naturally, in this blog too gets a feature as one of the top places to see in Karnataka.

Golden Chariot

If money is no problem for you, and you want to travel Karnataka on a fast track while feeling like a royal personality, then there’s no better way of doing it than on a luxury train.

The Golden Chariot luxury train (one of the five luxury Maharaja  trains operating in India) takes you through an epic journey across all the major highlights in Karnataka, including the towns like Mysore, Hampi, Bandipur, Chikmagalur, Hassan and popular highlights like Mysore Palace , Badami Caves and more.

Out of all the experiences I am suggesting in this Karnataka travel guide, this is my favorite. I have even mentioned this experience in my top holiday destinations in India blog .

Bangalore is the biggest cosmopolitan in south India and my favourite metro city in India. It may not be one of the favorite places to see in Karnataka for many, but I love it.

Unlike other metro towns, Bangalore has perfect weather, a laid-back vibe, and a great cafe/pub culture. It may not necessarily be a place for you to experience a world-class city, but if you want to experience modern India, look no further.

Around 150 km south of Goa, lies the beautiful beaches of Gokarna. You can picture it as a more laid-back and less-commercialized version of Goa where people come for a relaxing holiday, over full-scale parties. And that makes Gokarna many traveller’s preferred choice.

Also known as Coorg, Kodagu is situated on the eastern slope of Karnataka’s Western Ghats, surrounded by coffee and Pepper plantations. Visit Kodagu to spend a weekend at one of the many hillside resorts or a homestay, or perhaps for some adventure river rafting, quad biking and trekking. One of my favourite places in Kodagu is Kabbinakad .

Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur’s favourable climate and coffee estates attract tourists from around the country. Here you will find Karnataka’s highest peak, Mullayanagiri, which stands at 2000 metres above sea level; the mesmerizing Kalhatti falls; and Bhadra wildlife century – for those who are into wildlife, particularly tigers.

Just like Hampi, you will find mentioned Chikmagalur in every Karnataka travel guide.

A prominent pilgrim site, Udupi is home to the atmospheric 13th-century Krishna Temple. It’s a hive of ritual activity, with temple musicians playing at the entrance, elephants on hand for puja (prayers), and pilgrims constantly passing through. If you’re into culture and want to see the real south Indian religious culture, look no further.

That’s all from me on top places to see in Karnataka in this travel guide. If you want to know more about it, check the Karnataka tourism website for more suggestions.

What Is The Cost of Travelling In Karnataka

Food in Karnataka is cheap. You can eat full diet at someplace local and basic for under 50 Rupees almost across the state. An average meal in restaurants can cost between 100 to 200 Rupees. I remember spending an average of 100 Rupees per meal in most of the cities, except for Hampi – where most of the restaurants (serving a prominent hippie crowd) had everything strangely overpriced.

Accommodation

Accommodation   in Karnataka can be cheap to moderately expensive. If you’re visiting the Western Ghats then expect to pay a little more, given the scarcity of cheap lodges in the area. Around the Western Ghats, you might have to pay around 1000 Rupees per night for a basic room. Beaches (especially the ones mentioned above in places to see in the Karnataka section) and historical cities like Hampi can be slightly cheaper, costing 500 Rupees or less for a budget guesthouse.

Next up, in this Karnataka travel guide is the best time travel.

What Is The Best Time To Travel Karnataka

Given the tropical and hot weather of Karnataka, the ideal time to travel is only between October and March, when the climate is pleasant and temperatures remain the lowest (still not cold).

The monsoon season between June and August is also sometimes favoured by those who love to hang out in rain, but exploring the rainforests in the Western Ghats, which lies on its eastern border can be tough.

The best weather across Karnataka is found in Bangalore.

That’s all in this Karnataka travel guide. If you have any questions or more destinations to add to the list of top places to see in Karnataka, please leave a comment below.

Is it safe to travel to Karnataka, or if it is safe, then which kind of precautions we need to take?

More information please visit Karnataka tourism website

Nice Post Dev. Let me introduce Bryscaves to your readers… Asia’s first theme caves resort Brys Caves is one of the most luxurious modern resort in the heart of jungle in Jim Corbett National Park. Brys Caves is the most preferable resort for adventurous or Romantic gateway. Your adventurous holidays start when you get on safari to reach the Resort. Brys caves has 40 elegantely designed caves. Brys Caves Resort presents a magnificent backdrop for the intimacy and grandeur of a wedding in Jim Corbett. Graceful indoor venues for 100-250 people, Brys Caves Resort can host all weddings, corporate functions, and banquets. From a simple ceremony to a grand extravaganza, The trademark warmth and hospitality are reflected in its personalized wedding management that ensures that every little detail, however small, is given the attention it deserves.

Nice coverage of the place. I really like to this blog its very interesting and informative. Thanks for your amazing travel guide and your photos are mind-blowing.

Thanks for information. very useful.

Hi Dev, I would like to introduce my lovely place for travellers visiting Karnataka: KATTEHOLE RESTINN!

Everything at the Kattehole Restinn is geared towards a different time, a different pace – inspired by the magic of plantation life. Situated in the Bellavara village of the Belur Taluk, the property is intimate, with 4 Individual Cottages & 2 deluxe dormitories lovingly located in the midst of the Nature. We’ve embraced our home stay around our own existing coffee estates and trees to create a space that’s refreshingly close to nature. The air here is crisp and clean, the temperature pleasant and the views spectacular. The breeze carries the aroma of coffee & pepper. Our charming spacious ground floor rooms, here you are surrounded by nature with trees and foliage, and you would enjoy waking up to bird songs.

Awesome place Karnataka. I really love it.

Above mention places are no doubt a heaven on the earth. Coorg is also the attractive part of Karnataka, and also known as God’s own land. The beauty of Lakes, mountain ranges, waterfalls palaces will make you fall in love with this place. It is one of the most visited hill stations in Karnataka. If you are a nature lover you will definitely love Coorg.

Hey Dev, thanks for this detailed guide on Karnataka. Wanted to explore this beautiful part of India for so long. I’m sure this will help.

Wow karnataka is so beautiful. Want to see the palaces, temples and Beach :). Thankyou for providing all the expenses and accomadation details. I can now surely plan the trip better 🙂

Karnataka is so beautifu you should totally plan out a trip. Keep exploring!

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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.

Karnataka Tours

Karnataka is situated in south western region of India. It is the largest city of Bengaluru and seventh largest Indian state with an area of 191,976 square kilometers. The west of Karnataka is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and the Laccadive Sea. It has Goa to its North West and Maharashtra to the north .

Telangana is to its North east and Andhra Pradesh to its east. Karnataka has Tamil Nadu to the south east and Kerala to the south west. Kannada is the official language of the state and is widely spoken by its people. Karnataka is adorned with vibrant colors, cultures, flavors, landscapes and heart throbbing beauty.

10 Itinerary Found Select Destination Alleppey Cochin Kovalam Kumarakom Trivandrum Munnar Nagarhole Bandipur

4 Days - Coorg Madikeri Hill Station Tour Karnataka

Bangalore - Madikeri (Coorg) - Bangalore

• Visit Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls and Omkareshwara Temple
• Holy pilgrimage of Bhagamadala
• Enjoy trek at the Brahamagiri Hills
• Play with baby elephants at Dubare Elephant camp

6 Days - Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Karnataka Tour

Bangalore - Mysore - Ooty - Kodaikanal

• Visit World Famous Brindavan Gardens - Bangalore
• See the Replica of Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir
• Visit Chamundi Temple at Chamundi Hills - Mysore
• Trek to the Dodabetta Peak - Ooty
• Visit to the Rose Garden and Tea Museum - Ooty

Full Day - Tour of Badami, Pattadakal and Aihole

Hampi - Aihole - Badami - Pattadakal

• Climb at the top of the Meguti Hill at Aihole
• Visit Ravanphadi Caves - Aihole
• UNESCO World Heritage Temples at Pattadakal
• Enjoy traditional North Karnataka cuisine
• See Cave Temples of Badami made of sandstone
• Visit Bhoothanatha Temple and Agastya Lake

Full Day - Mysore City Guided Tour

• Steps up to the Chamundi Hills
• Learn how Mysore silk saree is traditionally woven
• Witness how sandalwood oil is extracted
• Visit Museum to explore folk history of Mysore

1 Day - Private Mysore Tour with Visit to Srirangapattana

Mysore - Srirangapattana

• Visit Ranganathaswamy Temple
• See the Daria Daulat Bagh
• Visit the Tombs of Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali
• Visit St. Philomena's church
• Witness Chamundeshwari Temple at top of Chamundi Hill
• Statue of Nandi - The Vahana of Lord Shiva
• Visit to Mysore Palace

1 Day - Rich Culture of Bangalore Day Tour

• Visit spiritual ISKCON Temple and Tipu Sultan's Palace
• Witness 1000 species of plants at Lalbagh Botanical Garden
• Magnificent View of Vidhan Soudha
• Visit Bull Temple and old Gavi Gangadhareshwara

3 Days - Hampi and Hospet Tour from Bangalore

Bangalore – Hospet - Hampi - Bangalore

• Visit the Tungabhadra Dam
• Sightseeing to UNESCO World Heritage Site - Hampi
• Visit to Vittala, Virupaksha Temple
• See the giant statue of God Ganesha
• See Popular icons of Hampi - Lakshmi Narasimha

3 Days - Karnataka Tour - Bangalore Hassan

Bangalore - Mysore - Hassan - Bangalore

• Visiting the Tipu Sultan’s Fort, Mysore Fort
• Sightseeing at Sriranganathan and Chamundi Temple - Mysore
• Enjoy trekking at the nearby hills
• Visit popular Chennakesava Temple at Belur
• Sightseeing at Shravanbelgola, a Jain pilgrimage - Hassan

14 Days - South India Tour from Bangalore

Bangalore - Mysore - Somanthpur - Shravanbelgola - Hassan – Halebidu - Belur - Hassan - Chickmanglur - Hampi – Aihole - Pattadakal - Badami - Bijapur – Gulbarga - Bidar - Hyderabad

• Visit Bull Temple, ISCKON Temple - Bangalore
• Visit Mysore palace and Chamundi Hills
• Light and sound show at Brindavan Garden
• Visit Shravanabelgola famous for statue of Gommattesvara Bahubali
• Hoysaleshwara Temple and Kedareshwara Temples - Belur

16 Days - South India Tour ( Karnataka Speical)

Bangalore - Mysore - Coorg - Mangalore - Murdeshwar - Gokarna - Badami - Bijapur - Aihole - Pattadakal - Hampi - Chickmanglur - Hassan - Shravanbelgola - Bangalore

• Bull Temple, Vidhan Soudha and Lal Bagh - Bangalore
• Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Jagmohan Palace - Mysore
• Raja's Seat, Omkareshwar Temple, Abbey Falls - Coorg
• Bejal Museum, Rosario Cathedral - Mangalore
• Spend time on beaches at Gokarna
• Sightseeing of Badami Caves
• Ruins of Vijayanagar at Hampi

About Karnataka

Bandipur national park, best time to visit karnataka, fairs and festivals in karntaka, heritage site of karnataka, history of karnataka, how to reach karnataka, mudumalai national park, nagarhole national park, tourist destinations in karnataka, frequently asked questions, q. what is karnataka famous for.

Karnataka is a state of out-and-out diversity along with the wide variety of sandalwood, silk and spices. When you visit Karnataka, you can find heritage sites, nature, beaches and wildlife - all in one place. Karnataka is mostly renowned for the heritage destinations and National Parks. Karnataka also has beautiful hill stations, amazing waterfalls, temples and other pilgrimage spots. There is a 320 km long coastline consisting of several less crowded beaches.

Q. What is the best time to visit Karnataka?

The months between October and April is the most appropriate time to visit Karnataka . During the summer the humidity is quite high in Karnataka therefore it is better to avoid the western coast from April to June. However, the hill areas are colder. For Wildlife safari or Mysore Dussera, winter is considered as the best time. Antargange or Jog falls can be the heaven for trekkers at the time of Monsoons.

Q. What are the best places to visit in Karnataka?

Some of the top places to visit in Karnataka are:

• Coorg: Omkareshwara Temple, Madikeri Fort, Mallalli Falls, Bhagmandala, Chettali, Chiklihole Dam.
• Mysore:  Mysore Fort, Lalitha Mahal Palace, Kukkarahalli Lake, Vasanta Mahal Palace, Chunchi Falls, B R Hills.
• Hampi:  Achyutharaya Temple, Royal Enclosure, Stepped Tank, King's Balance, Queen's Bath, Vira Harihara Palace.
• Bangalore:  Skandagiri, Avani, Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Someshswara Temple, The Govt. Museum, Venkatappa Art Gallery
• Gokarna:  Mahabaleshwara Temple, Maha Ganapathi Temple, Venkatramana Temple, Om beach, Gokarna beach.
• Bandipur National Park: Ooty, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Jeep safari, Elephant rides, Gopalaswamy Betta.

Q. How to reach Karnataka?

Karnataka is well-connected to the rest part of the country and the whole world by different means so that visitors from different places can come here easily.

• By air: Karnataka has 6 airports among which 2 offer international flights to connect different places through air network.
• By train: Along with the interstate rail network Karnataka has wide rail network connecting the state to rest of India.
• By road: With Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation you can to and fro various cities and states.

Q. What to shop from Karnataka?

Q. which are the famous festivals in karnataka.

• Ganesha Chaturthi: It is one of the important festivals dedicated to Lord Ganesha and followed by shodashopachara, Uttar Puja and Visarjan.
• Hampi Festival: Dance of Kannadigas, fireworks, Folk song concerts, Elephant marths known as Jumbo Savari are the main attraction of this festival.
• Karaga: It is one of the oldest festivals where folk dance is performed dedicated to Draupadi.
• Kambala festival: This traditional buffalo race festival which is celebrated to please the god by farming communities.

Q. Is it safe for women to travel solo in Karnataka?

Yes, Karnataka is actually safe for solo female travellers. But it is always better to be careful and safe.

• Do not trust any random person and never leave your belongings here and there.
• Always keep in touch and carry a list of emergency contact numbers.
• Keep all the important documents and cash in your handbag.

Q. What is special in Karnataka?

Karnataka is considered as the land of diversity. This place is full of culture and heritage along with natural beauty. Here are some special attractions that Karnataka is all about

• Silk and Sandalwood: Mysore is the center place of Sandalwood products and Mysore silks which are uniquely made of pure silk and golden zari.
• Channapatna Toys: Channapatna toys are traditionally made of ivory woods and named after the city Channapatna.
• Mangalorean dishes: Mangalorean cuisine is a combination of Konkani, Kannada and Tulu dishes that must be alluring for the food lovers.
• Yakshagana: It is a traditional art form of Karnataka performed during the Monsoons in a form of Dance Drama.

Q. Which is the biggest city in Karnataka?

Bangalore is considered as the biggest city of Karnataka. It also the capital city of the state, therefore the center of all political and economical activities along with 8.5 million population. Bangalore is also called the Silicon Valley of India and widely recognized for its heritage and culture.

Q. What are the famous temples in Karnataka?

Karnataka is largely known for its pilgrimages. Some of the most famous temples include

• Mookambika Temple: It is located at Kollur and goddesses Parvati is worshipped here.
• Shrikishna Temple: Udupi Shrikishna Temple is popular for the unique idol of Lord Krishna having its back to the entrance.
• Mahabaleshwara Temple: This temple in Gokarna is renowned as Dakshinakashi where Lord Shiva is worshipped with great belief.

Q. What are the historical places in Karnataka?

Karnataka has a great historical background therefore the whole state is surrounded by different historical places.

• Hampi: Mostly famous for the remaining of Vijaynagar empire, beautiful temples and monuments.
• Gol Gumbaz: It is located in Bijapur and popular as the mausoleum of Md. Adil Shah.
• Halebid: This place has a glorious past and famous for significant Hoysala architecture.
• Aihole: This place is carrying the memories of Chalukya dynasty and mostly known as temple complex of Karnataka.

Q. What is the famous food in Karnataka?

If you are a foodie, Karnataka won't disappoint you. The taste of the food is somehow influence by the neighbour states- Tamil Nadu Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Still Karnataka has its own special cuisine. The staple food of Karnataka is rice but you can find dishes like Korri Gassi, Mysore Pak, Coorg Pandi Curry, Rava fry etc. Also don't miss to taste Mysore Masala Dosa, Udupi Sambar, Mango Chutney and Haalbai.

Q. What is the best place to visit in July in Karnataka?

Every year Karnataka gets a heavy rainfall. So, if you are planning to visit Karnataka in July you must choose your destination wisely. Here is a list of places that you can visit and enjoy during Monsoons

• You must visit the Kabini Jungle in July to experience experience the amazing wildlife including birds, reptiles and black panther.
• Jog waterfall has a unique look at the time of Monsoons that you must visit.
• Kudremukh Grassland is a shola grassland that becomes more beautiful in Monsoons.
• The beauty of Shivanshamudram falls increases more when it rains in the month of July.
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Amazing Karnataka – From Ten Years of Travel

Timeless (And Best) Places to Visit in Karnataka India And All About the State — From a Local

I have spent six years (if not more) in Karnataka, spanning over a decade. And finally I’ve moved out (for the unempteenth time) to have a life on the road.

It seems yesterday when I had gone to Bangalore to work at a software company. Ten years ago, I wasn’t going to Karnataka. I was moving to Bangalore, the capital of the state and the software hub of India. This crowded city of Bangalore seemed like a state of its own. My local Kannada friends told me the city wasn’t so jammed and hotch-potched in their young days. They grew up cycling under the canopy of trees, taking the local bus, and spending time in parks. 

Since Bengaluru became the Silicon Valley of India, millions of employees and employers came to the city with their families. As the city wasn’t planned by any civic planner, it expanded in every direction in an unruly manner. Concomitantly, the infrastructure got so bad that everyone living in Bangalore wanted to go out to the places to visit in Karnataka rather than staying within the busy city.

But today I’m not here for Bangalore. Today I want to tell the story of Karnataka — the state of the jungles, so let me get to that quickly.

Table of Content For Best Visiting Places in Karnataka Guide

• About Karnataka
• Best Places in Karnataka
• Languages in Karnataka
• Best Time for Traveling to Places of Karnataka
• Food of Karnataka
• Best Transport Mode for Places to See in Karnataka
• Travel Safety in Karnataka

All Karnataka Travel Articles

About the state of karnataka india and its history.

As the history of Karnataka goes back to the Neolithic age, I possibly can’t get into it in detail. 

But here is a little summary. Karnataka was ruled over by a series of kings, including the Mauryas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Cholas, and the Vijayanagar empire. From the Vijayanagara Empire, the rule of the Mysore kingdom (the present Karnataka) was passed to  Tipu Sultan . In the last of the four Anglo-Mysore wars, Tipu Sultan, lovingly known as the Tiger of Mysore, lost to the British and the state came under the colonists. 

After India’s independence, all the primary Kannada regions were combined to form the state of Mysore on 1 November 1956. But Mysore was renamed Karnataka in 1973 as a lot of people thought Mysore didn’t represent the new regions that were added during the state formation.

Karnataka has the Arabian Sea on the west. Its border touches all five states – Maharashtra to the north, Telangana to the northeast, Andhra Pradesh to the east, Tamil Nadu to the southeast, and Kerala to the south.

About twenty-two percent of Karnataka is under forest (forming 6% of India’s total forest). In this state, tigers and leopards roam free. Mountains and hills fill the Western boundaries of Karnataka. Here relics two thousand years old are still being excavated. In Karnataka, one can see sloth bears licking honey off rocks and fury Malabar squirrels clutching onto trees with sharp claws. Peacocks dance uninhibited and flying foxes flying together form a black duvet over our heads. 

Karnataka jungles are deliciously deciduous, evergreen, and thorny. The forest is dense with snakes and elephants. Some national reserves are so thick they never let any sunlight in. The soulful dance of the soulmate hornbills in the sand and soil is known to all. Rivers and lakes are abundant. Waterfalls lie tucked amongst high hills and forests. Villages are dispersed in between these jungles. Sometimes there is a road, and some days one has to walk on foot. 

About 61 percent of Karnataka lives in rural areas. Thus a lot of inhabited regions are still remote and unreachable. People do farming, mining, and manufacturing. Then there are industries, textile, automobile, software jobs, and Karnataka tourism has been seeing a boom for years now. 

Karnataka is an interesting state which (even after ten years) I have just started to understand.

A piece on Karnataka wildlife is coming up soon.

Some of The Most Culturally-Intriguing and Beautiful Places in Karnataka

The only reason I don’t already have a house in Karnataka is that I still haven’t learned Kannada. Otherwise, I proudly tell everyone I love the state. How can one not admire such a gorgeous and rich place where you have a new experience at every turn? Traveling in Karnataka is almost like being in a new country.

The list of Karnataka tourism places is endless. From deep-blue beaches, unseen forests, to temples and monuments recently discovered, Karnataka is dense with interesting destinations to rejuvenate a traveler physically, spiritually, and emotionally. If only one is open to experiences. 

(On a side note: I was just almost treated away from my writing spot in the pine forest here in a village Chindi in Himachal by some rowdy cows. They didn’t care that I know their human parents and moved towards me as if they were going to trample me over. I think I had made the mistake of sitting over a patch of grass they find really tasty. I can tell by the amount of dried cow poop that lay here. In bonus to this threat, I also hear the grunt of a bull closely whom I have seen following these cows, wooing them. Villagers told me this bull goes after people too if you try to shoo him away.)

So let’s keep an open heart to travel experiences and get back to Karnataka from crazy Himachal cow stories. 

Here are some beautiful Karnataka places to visit.

1. Nandi Hills – A Newbie’s Karnataka 

Cold wind ruffling on the cheeks, hair going all frizzy, we wrapping our jackets closer to our bodies, huddling together, eating steaming maggie, and waiting for that sunrise on the horizon, that’s how I remember Nandi hills.

Nandi hills are that quintessential hill stop every Bangalorean and traveler makes at least once. While everyone at the top of Nandi enjoys the view of the clouds spread below their feet and the sun lighting up the sky in front, none of us know much about Nandi hills. 

Located 60 km (37 miles) from Bangalore, Nandi hills are part of a larger range of mountains. The ancient Nandi temple Bhoga Nandeeshwara is located at the footsteps of the Nandi hill. The temple is the eponym after which the hill was named. The hill is mentioned as a major fortress of Tipu Sultan which took the British some three weeks to bring down in the year 1791. 

This  Bangalore International podcast episode is a must-listen in which Siddhartha Raja (who runs Nandi Valley walks) talks about the history, geography, and importance of this hill in detail.

Beyond these heritage walks, cycling tours are popular around the hills, adjacent hills are known for night treks, and visit the many ancient temples strewn around the hillocks. Bhoga Nandeeshwara with its stepped stone tank at the bottom of the hills is a popular wedding destination too. But the priests won’t give you a certificate if your parents aren’t present (I know from personal experience). 

Bikashrd , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Nandi hill is a good place to start your Karnataka travel if you land in Bangalore. Otherwise you can skip and visit other historical places in Karnataka. 

Khangkar mud house looks like a good option to stay in Nandi area.

2. Skandagiri Hill – One of the Many Karnataka Destinations Popular for Night Treks

One evening my college friends asked me if I would be interested in climbing hills through jungle paths, and I instantly said yes. All of us hired a cab and drove from Bangalore to the bottom of Skandagiri hill from where the trek begins. In no time we were with our flashlights treading on steep muddy trails fringed with bushes and grasslands of the ubiquitous Karnataka jungle. 

Giri means mountain in Kannada. At an elevation of 1450 meters, Skandagiri hill is a neighbor of Nandi hills. I’m not sure if I knew about the proximity of these two mountains when I hiked Skandagiri at night during my first year in Karnataka. 

The hike took us about a couple of hours. And we were at the top by 3-4 am. As this hill is popular for its night trek many food stalls and tea counters were functional even at that nocturnal time. 

The morning brought fresh dew, and we clicked pictures climbing stones. This is an easy beginner night trek so go with some friends without a doubt. 

I don’t remember if we had hired a guide. The trail is well-worn. During the day one can always find a way to the top. But for the night be better prepared or go with someone who has already visited the hill. The Siddhartha Raja podcast I mentioned above can give you all the information about this mountain too.

On Skandagiri, you spend the night under the stars. Don’t forget to see the remnants of the Tipu Sultan fort that was destroyed by the British after they took it under their siege. Two temples at the bottom and the top of the hill do add more interest to the trail.

Skandagiri and Nandi makes for a good 2 days trip from Bangalore. If using public transport you can get a bus to Nandi hills.

3. Dodda Alada Mara — The Big Banyan Tree

That big bugger monkey took my pineapply away. My legs hurt from cycling, and I don’t understand how can a tree grow so big. These were the first few lines I uttered when I roamed around the popular Dodda Alada Mara.

The Dodda Alada Mara — literally translated to Big Banyan Tree — is a giant 400-year-old banyan tree. Located in the Kethohalli village of Karnataka, the tree lies at a distance of 28 kilometers from Bangalore. This Big Banyan is considered the world’s fourth-largest banyan tree.

I cycled to Dodda Alada many years ago with a group (from where I don’t remember). We took a few hours to cycle. The road went up and down. I was once separated from the group but found them back again. The cycling journey was fairly doable by an amateur cyclist like me so I guess anyone with decent fitness can bike to the beloved banyan.

When we arrived at Dodda Alada we parked our bikes in the parking nearby the tree. Once at the Big Banyan do spend some time admiring the huge tree with its roots shooting out from the branches and now penetrated deep into the ground. The tree’s main trunk was destroyed in 2000 so now only these aerial roots support the tree.

When one looks at this gigantic banyan tree which covers an area of 3 acres for the first time, astonishment is a general emotion, followed by admiration for nature. The tree’s crown spawns over a circumference of 120 meters. I couldn’t tell how tall the tree is but it seemed to reach up to the sky. This banyan’s highest branch reaches 95 feet.

We had bought cut pineapple from a stall right outside the tree premises. But when I just started enjoying the juicy pineapple (with chili) one monkey snatched my packet away. The monkeys do make the visit a bit chaotic but what can you do against nature.

The journey from Bangalore to Dodda Alada can also be done via bus. Take one from Majestic bus stand to Kengeri and from Kengeri to Doda Alada Mara. Direct buses to The Big Banyan also run from K. R. Market .

Given I have read The Hidden Life of Trees I know 400 years is not a lot for a tree. But a usual banyan stays alive for only about 1000 years so this one does have a reason to be admired and celebrated.

Dodda Alada Mara can be your first on the list of places of Karnataka. It makes more sense to go to this place if you are in Bangalore. Otherwise, you can skip visiting the tree, unless you are a tree enthusiast (like me).

Do ask the locals about the ghosts around the tree.

Pro travel tip: While at Dodda Alada Mara don’t forget to visit The Big Banyan Vineyard inspired by its eponym tree.

4. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – Home of Migrant Birds on the River Kaveri

As we approached the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary , we could see big birds flying above us in groups. That part of the city felt like a forest. Soon we would see crocodiles basking on rocks and islets full of young chicks chattering incessantly for food.

Ranganathittu bird sanctuary is a natural reserve in the Mandya district of Karnataka. The reserve is 3 kilometers from the historic town of Srirangapatna (another important place in Karnataka)  and 16 kilometers (10 mi) north of  Mysore . The drive to Ranganathittu bird sanctuary from Bangalore took us about four hours.

Ranganathittu islets were formed when an embankment across the Kaveri river was built between 1645 and 1648 by the then king of Mysore. These islets, originally numbering 25, soon started attracting birds. Once upon a time, ornithologist   Salim Ali observed migrant birds nesting in huge numbers on the islands. Upon his suggestion, the King of Mysore declared the islets a protected area in 1940. Now the sanctuary is formed by six of these islets on the Kaveri river.

We purchased a ticket and went inside. As we walked towards the end of the floor from where we could see the islands below, above us in the sky flew painted storks, ibis, pelicans, and herons. At least those were the birds I could identify. When we took the special boat ride that takes in seven people and goes around the sanctuary for 40 minutes the boatman told us that the reserve hosts at least 170 bird species. Some of the common birds found are painted storks, Asian openbill storks, woolly-necked stork, pelicans, river terns, egrets, cormorants, herons, and varieties of kingfishers.

The migrant birds come from as far as Siberia , South America, and the Himalayas. You can also spot crocodiles, otters, mongooses, and flying foxes there. Just keep your eyes open and binoculars in focus.

The special boat ride costs INR 1500 (we shared with a family) and goes farther and longer than the regular boat ride. The sanctuary has many restaurants. Take a good camera and a pair of binoculars, if you have one. The season to visit is from December to June. Migratory birds come in December and nesting begins in January.

Do ask the locals and the boatman about the flooding in the sanctuary. I’ve linked my article on Ranganathittu above so go through that for more pictures and details.

You can also visit the bird reserve if you go to stay in Mysore.

How to reach: Mysore is well connected by road, rail, and air and from Mysore to the bird reserve is a short car or bus ride.

5. Mysore City – A Modern City With Yoga, Good Food, Artists, and Hills Around

I remember the brightly-lit Mysore Palace as our car spun on the roads at a distance. My father asked me to ignore the palace, but I insisted. Demanding the driver to turn around to get us a closer look, we gazed at the royally lighted Mysore palace for a long while.

A trip to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary can be combined with visiting the Mysore city. Both lie at a distance of 20 km (13 miles) from each other. Hindi speakers call the place Mai-sore, and I mention this because my father once failed to recognize the city when I used the usual pronunciation my-soor.

Karnataka state was once the kingdom of Mysore under the Wadiyar kings for nearly six centuries from 1399 until 1956. Patrons of art and culture, the Wadiyar kingdom along with Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, who ruled there in the 18th century, developed the aesthetics of the place much. After the British, the kingdom was resolved and was joined under the constitution into the states of India.

Mysore is a well-developed city not with its own airport, restaurants, apartments, hospitals, institutions, and roads. Amongst its many historical temples and structures, Mysore is popularly known for the royal Mysore Palace. The palace should be roamed around during the day but gazed from a distance during the evening when it is lit up. Then there is Philomena’s church and other old buildings too. My favorite activity of Mysore seems to be roaming around the city on a bicycle enjoying fresh coconuts every now and then. And go into the bylanes of Mysore to find the artists at work.

Many years ago when I visited Mysore from Bangalore with my parents we hired a taxi for a one-day tour. But this place to visit in Karnataka is a mix of modern and ancient and thus deserves at least a few days. Mysore is also a center for yoga and one of the well-known (and personally recommended) yoga centers is run by A.G.Mohan .

Here is an organic farm stay if you are looking for staying in Mysore. But Mysore has many more heritage and natural properties of interest.

Here are some: Gitanjali homestay , Cornerbunker, Aashraya homestay , The Bunkers Ashram , Laika Heritage Stay , and Green Hotel India.

Pro Tip: Do climb Chamunda hill to have a night view of the palace or just to get a drone view of the city.

How to reach: Well connected by road, air, and rail.

Jim Ankan Deka , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

6. Dandeli National Reserve – A Jungle Fairy Tale

Standing at the top of that watchtower, we saw the mango-golden sun starting its journey into the abyss. Between us deep-green trees stood neck to neck forming the deep Dandeli forest. Not even an inch of land or mountain was visible amidst the foliage. Just imagining the wildlife there gave us goosebumps. And then the peacock calls echoed. I, to date, wonder if I saw it all or was Dandeli just another one of my myriads of daydreams.

Dandeli is a deep jungle reserve in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka about a twelve-hour drive from Bangalore. The 1200 km square of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary or Dandeli National park , which also contains the Kali Tiger Reserve, is home to two hundred crocodiles, fifteen tigers, twenty-three panthers, and twenty-seven leopards.

The muddy Kali river flows through the national park making it a fairy tale jungle. Rafting, coracle rides, and birdwatching are some other activities apart from going for jeep safaris with experienced guides into the reserve.

When people ask me what is one of my favorite places to travel in Karnataka, I say Dandeli.

Where to stay? I stayed in the Kali Jungle Lodge maintained and run by the Karnataka government and the forest department. The jungle lodge is located right on the river bank and one can watch hornbills and crocodiles busy in their daily routine from the hammocks outside their huts.

Many other old properties like Dandeli Jungle Camp and a birdwatching cottage known as Old Magazine House are available for stays too. All of these guest houses have their own itineraries around the forest, river, and backwaters. Culturally intrigued tourists can also visit tribal people to understand their lives. I would advise to be compassionate and empathetic to these tribes whose primary home is the jungle and they completely depend on the government for their survival.

Dandeli town has many homestays too. Madhuvan homestay looks really nice, or go here to scroll through them all. For further details on the Dandeli sanctuary read both my articles: living at Kali jungle lodge in Dandeli and a day at Dandeli Jungle camp .

How to reach: By road or take a train to Dharwad (55 km away from Dandeli).

7. Dubare National Park – Elephant Elephant EveryWhere

The elephants won’t be coming out today. The river is overflowing due to the rains. Said a worker of Dubare National Park when we approached him on the banks of the Kaveri. I couldn’t tell if he was melancholic or just happy to have a day of rest.

Most of the 150 elephants at Dubare were used to carry logs on their backs. Now as logging operations have stopped, the Karnataka forest department wondered what can they do with the elephants. To be able to continue caring for the big animals, the department created elephant interactions.

Dubare camp is a deep jungle that has other wild animals too. After taking a ticket, one can engage with and bathe the elephants who are brought out from their deeper abodes in the forest to the Kaveri river. There in the playful river elephants interact with the animal lovers. Trained mahouts drive the activity for a safe experience.

One of the main places to stay near Dubare is the Jungle Lodge. Their standard itinerary comprises bird walks, coracle rides, and jungle safaris. On a day visit, one can bathe the elephants and also take a coracle ride with the locals on the Kaveri river.

We visited the Dubare elephant camp while returning from Coorg to Bangalore by road (Kodagu). The camp lies in the Kodagu district and is about an hour’s drive away from the main town of Coorg.

Parking is right outside the sanctuary. Many food places circumscribe the park.

Places to stay near Dubare are here: Carpe Diem Stay and Coorg Peacock feathers homestay .

How to reach: By road.

8. Hampi Village – Rich Heritage Cradled in Nature

Ancient ruins scattered amongst hillocks and trees, snake sculptures peeking from caves and river beds, carved boulders, wild langurs, lush paddy villages, ubiquitous crunchy dosa corners, blue skies, simple people, dogs and cats running free on village roads, mountains to climb, and historical temples scattered throughout are only some of the features of Hampi, one of the most interesting and unpredictable tourist places in Karnataka.

See this Hampi photo essay to marvel at the destination and my extensive guide to places in Hampi will be your tour guide.

Relics dating as old as the 3rd century BCE, some of them from the Ashoka empire, have been excavated in Hampi making us wonder since when has this place been inhabited by humans. Hampi village and the surrounding area were the capital of the rich Vijayanagar empire once. The kingdom was brutally destroyed by the Muslim invaders in the 15th century.

So now Hampi is a collection of ruins and remains of the old temples of the empire, the royal market, elephant stables, queen baths, many stepped tanks, royal auditoriums, and symmetrical monuments so pretty you wonder why would anyone vandalize something that beautiful.

But those remains aren’t just found in their designated places. They exist in hidden corners, under the rocks, carved on stones in hills, inside the temples, near the river bank. We couldn’t see the carvings and sculptures near the Tungabhadra river for the river had flooded over. I visited in September — rains had just started receding Karnataka during this month. A coracle ride on Tungabhadra would be pretty joyful in the dry season. Get to the other side to explore more.

Trail maps for most of the discovered ruins are provided by the government. But I enjoyed getting on my own path and discovering one relic after another. Walking on stone paths near the shore fringed by giant precipitous rocks on one side and by Tungabhadra on the other is an experience like no other.

But amidst the ruins and hill-top temples don’t forget the villages of Hampi. They are filled with cattle, local life, and endless paddy fields. Find the Sanapur lake and either jump in or climb boulders.

One week is recommended to explore Hampi.

Places to stay in Hampi: Gowri cottages near Sanapur lake (I stayed here but it doesn’t seem to be functional now), Abhi Homestay Hampi , Vinayaka homestay , Srinivasa homestay , and Banana farm house . If you like none of these, scroll through all the Hampi guest houses here .

How to reach: By road or take a train to Hospet (Hampi is a small rickshaw ride from here).

9. Daroji Bear Sanctuary – India’s First Sloth Bear Sanctuary

Hampi has a bear sanctuary? An overexcited me replied to my partner while gulping down a beer in our Hampi cottage.

Yes. Tomorrow?

That’s how we ended up visiting Daroji bear sanctuary (about 80 km or 50 miles from Hampi). Founded in 1994 in the Bellary district of Karnataka, Daroji is home to at least 130 sloth bears. The reserve was formed when the forest department started getting complaints of bears attacking children and adults alike. What could the bears do? Their homes — that is the boulder-filled Hampi villages in whose caves and foliage they lived — had started seeing too many visitors and local dwellers. The guards and the farmers there still tell stories of bears trespassing farmlands at night to steal sugarcanes and other sweet produce.

Now bears have a sweet tooth, don’t they?

What is a  sloth bear ? Found in lower hills and dense forests, sloth bears are thinner than brown and Asian black bears. With a rough mane, a shaggy fur, and a slow gait, sloth bears were first thought of as sloths but then someone in the sane mind saw the sloth bear size and figured.

This 8000 hectare protected land can be entered by paying 500 rupees for your car. The drive from Hampi is 2 hours long.

The best time to visit the sanctuary is around 5 pm when the bears come out to lick the honey off rocks. Bring a good camera and enjoy. And thank you for not being noisy.

Ask the guards how did the honey end up there.

My guide to Daroji sanctuary , its history, about sloth bears, and visiting tips is a good read before going here.

10. Sakleshpur – The Land of Tea

I think I have visited Sakleshpur, the land of tea, coffee, and spices twice. But I can’t be sure. The rolling velvety green hills in Sakleshpur could be befooling me in believing I was there more than once. The number of visits doesn’t matter for I still haven’t explored Sakleshpur well.

But I can tell you Sakleshpur is a hill station in the Western Ghats mountain range of Karnataka. The slopes of this hill station are dense with tea, coffee, and spice plantations. The 18th-century Manjarabad Fort sits on top of one hill.

I remember taking two rooms with my friends in a simple accommodation. We had local food and walked around the market. During the day we explored the hills and plantations. My memory starts fading here.

Research tells me that Bisle Reserve Forest and Jenukallu Gudda peak are two good places to visit in Sakleshpur. The town’s location and geography make it one of the best trekking places in Karnataka.

Check out these places to stay in Sakleshpur.

How to reach: By road or rail.

11. Panchapalli Dam, Bettamugilalam Village, and Driving Through Aiyur Forest – Lush Views (Though these places are in Tamil Nadu I had already added them here without realizing it. Feel free to explore.)

“You are not supposed to be sitting on this side of the waterhole.” An angry old man shouted at us in half Hindi, half Tamil, and English. Hand gestures accompanied too.

“Why? We saw other people going from here.”

“You can’t be here. Elephants come here to drink water.”

“Oh. We thought we can come until here.”

This conversation with an un-uniformed man near the waterhole in Aiyur forest didn’t go as smoothly as I have presented it now. When the person — who I still wonder if he was the guard — saw us sitting near the waterhole he shouted from the roadside at us. We couldn’t understand what he was saying and as we had seen people on our side of the muddy pond we didn’t know what we had done.

Tip to the forest officers — please put signboards in 2 languages warning people of dangers and their limits.

Learning as a traveler —   don’t venture in the forest without asking the guards there.

Well that Aiyur forest which lay on our way from Bangalore to Panchapalli dam contains the Denkanikottai village. None of these places are well-known. Not a lot of people go to the dam or other destinations I mention here. There was no forest guard near the natural pond. We hadn’t seen any officer on our way through the entire forest. But where we sat lay a lot of elephant poop still in the process of drying.

I had a great day chasing the blue marker of this dam and the village on my Google maps. For the full travel guide read my travelogue of the Panchapalli and Bettamugilalam drive .

We also visited the small Bettamugilalam village — which is at a height of 3000 m. Bettamugilalam was a small gorgeous village where neon pastures were dotted with colorful mud huts. Jackfruit and pipal trees were ample. And under the trees bright idols and temples stood shining.

To visit the Panchapalli dam we had to trace our way back to Denkanikottai (Aiyur forest). We arrived near the dam around late afternoon to find it completely dry.

We turned around from the dam and parked our car to find a trail into the lush pasture we had seen before. Walking downhill amidst hundreds of cows, one of whom had diarrhea, we arrived into the arms of the pasture. We only climbed up when the sun was about to set. What a day it was!

Oh did I forgot to mention the dark pink lotus lake and the Indian blue rollers flying above.

Pro Tip: On your Karnataka trip, drive, cycle, or run around in the monsoon and post-monsoon season. There can be only fewer pleasures in life.

12. Chikmagalur – The Land of Coffee

Coffee plantations, swaying silver oaks, green grasslands, endless velvety mountains, thick forests, blue lakes, forest reserves, rivers and dams, ancient temples, hills to hike — what can one not find in Chikmagalur, a hill station district on the Western Ghats of Karnataka.

About a five hour drive away from Bangalore (oh on this note let me request please don’t be angry with me for measuring every place from Bengaluru as that was my residence in Karnataka), Chikmagalur town is at a height of 1000 meters. It gets hot in March and April but as soon as the rain sets in the mountains become misty and the lands turn green.

We recently spent a month in Chikmagalur after the serious lockdowns of the first COVID wave. The main Chikmagalur town is surrounded by various villages and we were in the Chikkolale area. In that one month, I saw and explored so many places of this hilly region that I have to write about 20 guides just on Chikmagalur alone.

Sitting in our homestay swing upstairs we could see the Mullayanagiri peak — the highest peak of Karnataka — on a clear day. And if it got too rainy we would open up a bottle of homemade fig wine made from the figs of the old tree in the house itself.

The hills of Chikmagalur are interconnected and one can hike to one hill from another. But most of our efforts to trek there failed because the forest department had closed those hikes for the time. Travelers had been lost and a story about a leopard attacking a tourist had not helped either. The forest officer told us they were soon about to set up a tourism community under which they would officialize all trails and appoint guides and guards for each one of them. But for the time we had to confine to hiking around on our own only in open mountains (except this one time when we went through a jungle trail).

Here is the Blue Bell homestay we stayed at. Foothills homestay, Memories of Malnad , and Leisure homestay all look really nice too.

Pro Tip: Oh, I forgot to mention that the Fishland restaurant of Chikmagalur town is not to be missed, given you eat seafood, my only sin. Swiggy and Zomato work around the main town up to a distance. Just saying. No pressure.

how to reach: By road. The nearest railway station from Chikmagalur is 45-minute from the town.

13. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – The Wild Thrives Here

The first time I entered the big room of River Tern Jungle Lodge, I saw the bellowing Bhadra river in front of me. The mountains on the horizon were faintly visible. We were on an island   and only on my far left could I see other huts scattered sparingly. Later I walked over a hanging bridge to get to another island to eat a large buffet. After stuffing ourselves on fried fish and sambhar (I also plucked ripe bananas right from the bunch hung in the dining), we made our way to the reception where a jeep awaited us to take us into the deep Bhadra wildlife sanctuary, home to leopards, tigers, bears, elephants, and other wild animals.

It could be all made up. Believe if you have to.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was the final cherry on our one-month Chikmagalur trip. The reserve is 80 km (50 miles) from the town of Chikmagalur and the drive took us almost two hours.

Bhadra river is also good for short swims and kayaking because the crocodiles are not close to the edge. River Tern Jungle lodge is an expensive accommodation but the stay includes all meals (which are too many and too heavy), two jungle safaris, a bird walk, and bonfires, etc.

This documentary on Bhadra Tiger Reserve by the Karnataka Forest Department is a joy to watch.

Pro Tip: Do not take the massage from the therapy center at the Bhadra jungle lodges. Do not.

14. Temples of Belur and Halebidu — The Best Examples of the Royal Architecture of Karnataka Empires

While roaming around the Hoysala temples of these villages, with a Nikon in hand, and curiosity in my heart, I could never take a moment of rest. Although I had the whole day on my hand, the wall carvings and the intricate stonework of the temples studded with deities left me dumbfounded.

How can one make such structures now? Beautiful, marvelous, amazing were some of the overused adjectives that left my mouth. And I have seen my fair share of temples around the world.

The Hoysala Empire ruled the present Karnataka between the 10th and the 14th centuries. The capital of the Hoysalas was initially located at  Belur  but was later moved to  Halebidu . Now what remains of their royal Hoysala architecture is these temples and shrines. 12th century Kannada inscriptions peak from every wall, and most of these are engraved with gods, goddesses, and demons each telling a story.

The towns are an hour’s drive away from Chikmagalur. My guide to the Belur and Halebidu temples provides all the travel information (coming up).

If the myriads of temples tire you out, do consider staying in the villages. KSTDC Hotel Mayura Shantala Halebeedu looks like a good option for both destinations. Bring high-resolution camera.

how to reach: by road or by train to Hassan which is 40 km from Belur.

15. Sharavathi Valley (Shimogga and Jog Falls) — A Green Luscious Karnataka Valley Facing Ecological Threat

Everyone has only heard of the 253-meter high Jog Falls of the Sharavathi Valley in Karnataka but no one knows the Sharavathi Valley has about 431 square km of dense evergreen forest. This protected Sharavathi sanctuary is full of azure lakes, obscure hikes, wildlife, waterfalls tucked away in high hills, and remote villages. Sharavathi is one of the most unexplored of the tourist places of Karnataka. In fact, most people don’t even know what is Sharavathi.

When I went to Sharavathi at the end of the year 2019, I didn’t know I needed to take visit permissions from the forest department in the Shimoga city. Also known as Shivamogga, Shimoga is the headquarters of the Shimoga district that contains the Shravathi valley. At that time I didn’t understand why I needed permits to visit waterfalls and lakes from the forest department. But when I drove to some of these natural places I understood that it was all under protection.

Sharavathi river flows through Shivamogga and the Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka for about 128 km (80 miles). But several dams have been formed over this river and its ecological system is under serious threat now. The reserve’s area is divided into core zone, buffer zone, and tourism zone.

Watch the below video if you want to know more about the damages done by the thoughtless developments around the Sharavathi river.

Now a valley where one needs permission from the forest department for almost every lake, backwaters, or waterfall can be imagined to be very untouched and wild. We would start driving on Sharavathi roads and for kilometers wouldn’t find any village or habitation. There was no one to ask as we don’t speak Kannada, and most of the locals don’t speak English there.

We did visit Jog falls once and the water had receded to pretty low levels. One has to climb down 1400 steps to the bottom and climb the same number up, of course. But Jog Falls is only one of the places. My recommendation to visit the Sharavathi Valley for a complete and beautiful experience is to first go to Shimogga and take permission there. See the list of places you can visit and ask for permits for the ones you would like to see. Even homestays take tourists to places without taking any permissions but I won’t recommend that route. The guards of some of these natural places also allow entry to visitors by taking money but those visits are rushed and hushed. So please avoid the risk.

Some stay options in Sharavathi: Gundimane (highly recommended though could be a bit pricey at rooms for about 2500 per day), Sri Ranga homestay (I’ve stayed here and recommend the homestay), Ibbani homestay , and Sugamya farm guesthouse.

 One of my most amazing experiences in Sharavathi was the hike to the hidden Belligundi (silver) waterfalls . Read the linked guide for the entire journey. Also, read this article on how a little lakeside picnic was enough to replace the big adventures we were hoping to have in Sharavathi.

16. Coorg — The Land of Coffee and Avocados

Avocados blended with sugar and carrying kilos of those mushy pieces of goodness home as a gift is how began my relationship with Coorg. Thanks to that homestay that  made my first home in this coffee district. Soon I started enjoying Coorg’s unique food, its long history, misty hills, stories of locals, and beautiful drives on my subsequent trips.

Coorg, now known as Kodagu, is one of the hill stations of Karnataka located in the Western Ghats. Locals and travelers flock to Coorg district and its main town Madikeri during summers and monsoon to get respite from the heat and enjoy the luscious rains of the region.

But overcrowding has affected the area negatively. I would advise all the other travel destinations of this Karnataka travel guide over Coorg anytime. Or go there in the offseason (February and March) when businesses need more help. Or choose more offbeat Coorg neighborhoods such as Stuart Hill (near Raja’s Seat ). Apart from this linked travel guide, I also have a photo essay on my slow life in Stuart Hill .

Coorgy hills are studded with coffee plantations where pepper, jackfruit, coconuts, betel nut trees, silver oaks, eucalyptus, avocados, kokum are only some of the other plants that grow in abundance. The best idea to stay would be to find a place in one of these coffee estates where you can roam inside freely.

Coorg has a long history, and its people are said to be descendants of the warrior tribe. They used to hunt the wild animals in their plantations, and they still follow most of these ancient traditions. But they are family people whom I have seen help each other all the time.

Some of my favorite places to stay in Coorg are listed in this article on guesthouses in Coorg, and my travel guide from Bangalore to Coorg tells about the destination, its culture, and important places.

How to reach: by road.

17. Namdroling Monastery — The House of the Monks in Karnataka

On your way to Coorg, do make a stop at Namdroling monastery. This monastery one of the largest Tibetan settlements in South India. The dormitory is huge and the premises are peaceful. Interested travelers who want to understand monk’s life from closeby can call and stay in the dormitory overnight. Do try. But please be respectful and quiet throughout your visit.

18. Hogenakkal Falls – And a Special Story (On the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu)

Holding the hand of my then new friend and now life partner, I sat in the coracle that whirled in the rowdy Kaveri. At a distance, the Hogenakkal falls — literally smoke over the rocks — cascaded to fall from a height of 20 meters. The frothy waters of Hogenakkal drowned all the surrounding sound and the freshwater drops splashing on our faces freshened us up.

Located at a distance of 127 km (80 miles) from Bangalore, Hogenakkal falls is a one-day trip from the city. Or a homestay or hotel can be found in the surrounding area for a longer exploration. Hogenakkal falls are formed as Kaveri enters Karnataka from Tamil Nadu, and thus the long smoky cascade of Hogenakkal is formed.

The 3-hour drive to the falls was scenic. Once at the falls, we used the public toilets and freshened up. Do carry toilet paper because the toilet is old-style. After the toilet, we straight went to the falls. From what I remember we walked over a bridge and then somehow reached the falls. At the mouth of the falls the stable rocks form perfect nature seats.

Behind the falls a further walk brings to a place where people can bath under the waterfall. But naked Indian men (with or without tight v-shaped underwear) will welcome you there so please beware. Monkeys are plenty and cattle roam the area. We also walked quite a bit on the rocks on the banks of the Kaveri and spent time seeing the old trees and the ancient Carbonite rocks.

Hundreds of flying foxes hang on those trees and towards the evening you may witness their flight into the world.

19. Shivasamudram Falls — The Ferocious One

At about 130 km (130 miles) from Bangalore, Shivasamudram makes for another exploration. Shivasamudram falls are ferocious and they fall as a combination of two — Gaganachukki Falls and Bharachukki Falls. The island town of Shivasamudram divides the Kaveri into these two falls.

The falls are located in Chamarajanagar District. The best months to visit this waterfall would be September to January.

Arriving early is the rule so you have enough time to explore.

20. Biligiriranga or BR Hills — A Wildlife Sanctuary Where I Spotted My First Ever Leopard

There he sits behind the foliage.

Where? I can’t see.

Sshh. If he hears loud voices he will leave. Let me show you.

The forest guard pointed me to the thickets in front. With an effort of many minutes and using the zoom lens of my camera I spotted the bright leopard perfectly camouflaged behind the thorny bushes. After observing his afternoon siesta for a long time, we drove on. Next we surprised a sloth bear who was just out for his evening meal. Naturally, the bear tumbled away as soon as he saw us. But I had my camera ready and I clicked. My travel guide to BR Hills tells it all.

At an altitude of 3500 feet above sea level, BR hills short for Biligiriranga hills, stand where the Western Ghats meets the Eastern Ghats, and make for an ecological hotspot. In addition to the location exoticism, the BRT wildlife sanctuary is quite large, 540 km² in the area to be precise, and is also an official tiger reserve.

BR Hills are located 179 km (112 miles) from Bangalore. On my one-day trip there I saw a leopard, sloth bears, Indian bison, monkeys and langurs, sambar deer, tortoises, eagles, owls, mongoose, and some other bird and animal life.

We were put up at the expensive Jungle Lodges. If you don’t want to stay at the jungle lodges, you can opt for one of the many BR hills guesthouses. But as they have to be booked separately from their websites, I’m putting down two properties (from Booking) that look promising: Gorukana BR hills resorts  and  this KSTDC hotel  (both with great reviews).

We visited during February end – the peak summer. Maybe our timing was perfect and that was why we could spot so many animals.

How to reach: By road is the best way.

Pro Tip : BR hills is also a good place for hiking. The locals and the forest officials will be able to provide more information.

21. Gokarna — A Coastal Karnataka Town With Calm Indian Ocean

He pulled my legs from the sea bed and I fell. But in the multiple trials before this one, I had learned how to float on my back. Effortlessly within seconds, I was on my back this time too. I gazed at the blue sky above me. The calm Indian ocean swayed me from side to side as a mother sways her child while singing her a lullaby. Swimming must be fun, I thought. I floated for more than an hour and decided to learn how to swim properly.

Floating in the sea is my strongest memory from Gokarna. Oh, I also remember eating grilled squids and other sea animals on the shacks there.

The beach town of Gokarna is located on the Southern coast of India. Though I have ventured into very obscure parts of Karnataka, I haven’t been to most of the beaches of Karnataka. But that’s going to change soon and the later posts of the blog will tell why.

On my three days in the town I stayed near the ocean almost all the time. Three beaches of Gokarna are most popular but no one talks about the mountains surrounding these known shores. My partner who visited the town with his friends boasts of many trails going through the surrounding hills. Who knows which one will bring you to a hidden beach?

Make Gokarna an adventure. Coconut Tree Resort , Namaste Yoga Farm , Viraz Valley , and Deva Samudra beach stay .

I highly recommend this place to stay in Gokarna but here are some other options.

How to reach: Gokarna is well-connected by road but the nearest train station and airport is a bit away.

22. Davanagere – If nothing, stop for the Davanagere Benne dosa

As soon as the bite of the buttery dosa touched our tongue, a satisfactory cry left our mouths. The mild coconut chutney and the creamy potato mash accompanied the dosa pretty well. Life seemed complete in those moments.

We accidentally stopped by the Davanagere town during our long road trip from Bangalore to Mumbai, and further on to the Himalayas through Uttar Pradesh. Once in the town, we realized we can’t leave without tasting the dosa that’s named after the town.

Davanagere must be visited just for the Davanagere benne dosa. Benne means butter. My long piece on Karnataka dosa is testimony to the goodness of these crunchy pancakes but Davanagere butter dosa was a level above all dosas I have had.

I’m sure the town will have other things to do but first eat the dosa and then figure out.

See what our early morning hunt for dosa brought us to.

How to reach: Davanagere is well connected with entire Karnataka.

23. Kolar — Temples, Boulders, and Caves

Getting down into the cave formed by the boulders, I wondered how much we will never see. This little boy walked ahead showing us the way into the cave. He didn’t think we would make it as he expected us not to be slow but to start jumping around the rocks, as he had since his childhood. But there we were, being fumbly and clumsy. We saw all he had to show though.

Capital of the  Western Gangas who ruled between 350 to 550 CE, Kolar is now known for its milk production, gold mines, and several ancient temples and caves. 70 km (44 miles) from Bangalore, the town of Kolar is easily accessible by public transport also. Some of the places we visited are Anthargange temple, Somnatheshwar temple, and some caves through hikes from the hilltop. You don’t have to worry about finding the caves as many locals, even small kids, act as guides to these hidden points. But make sure to hire a guide who seems trustworthy as many people wander there claiming to guide and incessantly pester travelers to hire them.

The view of the valley from the summit of Kolar hills is panoramic.

How to reach: Buses run until Kolar but there isn’t a railway station in town.

T ravel tip: If you are in Bangalore, do visit Basavanagudi . This old part of Bangalore town is full of ancient temples, caves, and parks dense with flying foxes. Oh, the South Indian food eateries there are some of the best in town.

Another Karnataka travel tip: I have also written about the organic stores for grocery shopping in Bangalore . And places to stay in Bangalore (personal recommendations) are listed in the attached link.

Pro travel tips for seeing Bangalore: Some of the must-see places in Bangalore are Cubbon Park , Lal Bagh, Koshy’s, Indian Coffee House, HSR Agara lake, and Shivaji Nagar. I may sound cliche but these places do give a general and historical sense of Bangalore. Take the metro from MG Road to somewhere. Walk around the town as much as you can. Sip coconuts and try gol gappas (fried fluffed breads filled with spicy water) wherever you find. MTR restaurants also serve delightful traditional dosa and South Indian delicacies. Exploring the Bangalore Palace area on foot is a great way to get to know the city. And many people run heritage walks through Bangalore. Try BangaloreWalks , Unventured , Klook , GetYourGuide, ToursbyLocals , and BangaloreCityTour .

Two properties where I love to stay in Bangalore are: Casa Cottage (for heritage and the garden) and Misty Meridian Serviced Apartments (for comfort, space, kitchen, and the sweet owner).

Here are the best restaurants near MG Road Bangalore .

Some of the other best visiting places in Karnataka are Manchinbele dam, Savandurga hill, and Channapatna town popular for toys. A few coastal places on my list are Udupi, Mangalore, and Murudeshwar. Bandipur, Kabini, and Nagarhole National Park are some more national reserves I haven’t seen. More historic temples are found at Pattadakal, Badami, and Aihole. There is the Nrityagram dance village and Yelahanka weavers, just to name a couple of artists and artisans of the state. And then the area has infinite possibilities for drives and hikes to be done.

I realize that even after wandering around Karnataka for months I may have only touched it slightly. We can keep talking about the Karnataka attractions but the more we see the longer the list seems to become. Let’s get on then for we have further to go.

This pine plantation under which I’m sitting (and writing this piece) near my guesthouse in Chindi village is quite young. With the loud wind, the pine supporting my back sways too. First I felt an earthquake was coming because everything shook. But I guess it was just the pine doing la-la-la-la-la.

Follow Up Read: Guide to Finding Affordable and Good Indian homestays and Tips on Searching Guesthouses in India

Languages Spoken in Karnataka

The official language of the state is Kannada and about 70 percent population of Karnataka speaks Kannada. But the state has some 50 tribal languages and 22 scheduled languages in the state. Other major languages spoken are Urdu (9.72%), Telugu (8.34%), Marathi (3.95%), Tamil (3.82%), Malayalam (1.69%), Tulu (3.38%), and Hindi (1.87%).

Yes, India is a bit crazy when it comes to languages.  

Given neither my out-of-the-station friends nor I speak Kannada, we found it hard to communicate in villages and rural Karnataka. Even in urban setups, a lot of locals don’t speak English. We had difficulty coordinating with cab drivers, bus drivers, local shops, and even fancy tourist places. 

You may find yourself stepping down into a cave in Kolar and your guide may not understand you feel claustrophobic. Or no matter how much you tell your cleaning lady you were asleep when she had rung the bell, she may not understand. And you won’t be able to figure out that it was not the cab driver’s fault he took the route he did.

But we survived, and we survived joyously. 

While traveling you won’t have a language problem in designated Karnataka tourist destinations and hotels at major travel spots. But as soon as you venture out of the known travel trail, get ready to use hand gestures to communicate. 

Pro travel tip for a long trip in Karnataka — Download offline Kannada language file and use the Google translate application. Its voice feature works wonders.

Weather in Karnataka (What are the best times for visiting places in Karnataka)

Karnataka is a Southern state of India. It gets hot during most parts of the year. But as the state is cradled by the Western ghat mountains on the west side, the temperature of those hilly regions mostly stays low. The long coast of Karnataka gets humid and sultry for the entire year as well. 

The capital Bangalore with an elevation of 920 meters enjoys pleasant weather during the entire year except for March and April when it gets considerably hot and dry. 

Central Bangalore has similar weather to central and northern states of India except the minimum temperature there only falls to 10 degrees versus 3-4 degrees in the Northern Indian plateau. 

Given the diverse climate, some parts of Karnataka can always be visited. So we traveled to the hilly regions of Coorg and Chikmagalur in the summer months of June and July when these coffee estates receive heavy rainfall. And central Karnataka was best-visited post-monsoon to February. Coastal towns are also pleasant from October to February. 

Every part of Karnataka will have a different best time to visit, and I have talked about those in the individual destinations above. 

Karnataka Food – My Most Important Reason to Travel to Karnataka

Karnataka food would be a new and enthralling experience for someone who has not eaten in any of the South Indian states. Here dosa, idli, vada, rice, millets, and bananas are a staple. 

I have written an extensive piece on the dosas of Karnataka . And apart from these crunchy companions, jowar (sorghum) roti meals, bonda soups, idli plates, non-vegetarian delicacies, seafood, and a plethora of rice preparations are common too. Chapati is eaten less, and sweets are rice-based too. 

I will only be able to do justice to Karnataka food in a separate article dedicated to the cuisine itself. So for now please be happy with these places to eat in Bangalore and the dosa article above. The food write-up will be sent your way soon. 

Enjoy these pictures of the food of Karnataka.

How to Travel Around the Various Karnataka Destinations? Transport in Karnataka.

Karnataka is well-connected by road. Buses and trains cover large parts of the state. Sometimes one may have to change many buses to reach their destination. But you can’t reach everywhere by public transport in Karnataka. Only a car can drive to remote valleys and obscure places. That’s why booking chauffeur-driven cabs is also common in Karnataka. Earlier we used to hire private taxis but now Ola and Uber also run intrastate travel cabs. A quick Google search bring up taxi numbers and call a few to check for prices and service quality. 

Having said that,  Redbus is a good website to book buses and this Indian railway government site is helpful to find train schedules and IRCTC for getting train tickets. Hitchhiking also works in Karnataka but make sure you are not alone and preferably find a family car to join in.

Flights connect only some major cities such as Mysore, Bangalore, Mangalore, Hubli, and Belgaum. Beyond these big cities, air connectivity is low in Karnataka. (Though several new domestic airports are coming up.)

Now to Travel Safety in Karnataka

Karnataka is considered a pretty safe state. Well, at least that is the response you will get from someone like me who has come from Uttar Pradesh and spent a lot of time in Rajasthan, Delhi, and other Northern areas. 

If we go by the  Wikipedia list of Indian states by crime , Karnataka is number 14 with 250 crimes per .1 million people. But the same statistics present Uttar Pradesh’s crime records to be 262 per .1 million too. I don’t know how much should I trust this list. 

In Bangalore, one can be out and about until late at night. But if you are a solo woman traveler, avoid getting out at night. During the day all roads and streets are fine. In a group, of course, you are even good at night. 

Traveling on the road in your vehicle at any hour is perfectly okay in Karnataka. Roads are pretty nice, and no one will bother you. If you use public transport, reserve seats in air-conditioned buses (for night travel) and feel free to choose any kind of bus for day travel. For trains, third-class air-conditioned coaches will ensure a safe journey. In the general compartments of the trains, woman travelers can get some unwanted attention, especially if traveling alone. So try the air-conditioned compartments. But during the day mostly everything is fine. 

Hitchhiking is also possible in Karnataka. Just make sure to get into a family car to avoid any mishaps. If you are getting into taxis alone, try getting a known driver through the help of your hotel or homestay hosts.  

Even in most rural villages people are looking forward to helping and not take advantage of anyone’s situation. The language gap does pose a barrier, but one has to maneuver her way around. 

I hope this helps.

Slow Travels in Mysore

A Serendipitous Stop in Karnataka Near Nandi Hills

Searched For Big Adventures, Satisfied With a Little Lakeside Picnic – In Karnataka’s Sharavathi Valley

Sunlit and Slow Living in Coorg’s Stuart Hill – In Photos

On Stuart Hill in Madikeri Coorg: Nothing To Do But So Much To Do

Celebrating My Parrot Mithu With Photos of Indian Parrots

My Best Bangalore Hotels, Apartments, and Homestays (Stayed At Each)

Who Knew Basavanagudi in Bangalore Could Be So Beautiful

Cubbon Park – Bangalore’s Eye Candy and My Green Oasis

Did you like my Karnataka travel guide? What are some of your best places in Karnataka? Let me know in the comments.

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9-Day Coastal Karnataka Itinerary – Best Coastal Karnataka Places

Here is a coastal Karnataka itinerary that covers places along the coast from Mangalore to Karwar covering about 320 kilometres.

Karnataka’s coastline that hugs the Arabian Sea for a little more than 300 kilometres, has many amazing places. We present here a coastal Karnataka itinerary that extends from Mangalore to Karwar and includes some of the important beaches and places near the coast. So if you are planning for a coastal Karnataka road trip , then these coastal Karnataka places that we have covered should be useful.

Table of Contents

Coastal Karnataka Itinerary – Coastal Karnataka Trip Plan

This coastal Karnataka trip plan covers some of the best places to visit in coastal Karnataka. It will help you discover some of the best beach places in Karnataka. It will also provide you with an immersive experience of the culture and cuisine of the coast of Karnataka, which is also known as Karavalli. The coastal Karnataka tour starts from Mangalore and culminates in Karwar, located near the Karnataka- Goa state border. The itinerary that we present is a 9-day itinerary of Coastal Karnataka , however, you can customize it to your requirements based on our recommendations of places you may want to add to the itinerary.

Coastal Karnataka Tourist Places Map

Coastal Karnataka Itinerary – Day 1

The trip along the coast of Karnataka will start from the port city of Mangalore or Mangaluru. Mangalore can be easily reached by air, road, or train. The trip would ideally start from the morning of Day 1 in Mangalore. The places and experiences recommended in Mangalore are detailed below.

Mangalore – Coastal Karnataka Itinerary

• Proceed for local sightseeing after breakfast
• Start the day by visiting the famous Kadri Manjunath temple which is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a history dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries
• Next, visit another famous temple of Mangalore, the Kudroli Gokarnatheswara temple, known for its famous Dussehra celebrations
• Proceed for lunch at one of the restaurants in Mangalore, if you like seafood, you can experience the flavours and aromas of Shetty Lunch Home, or if you are vegetarian, you can have lunch at any of the many vegetarian restaurants that serve authentic local food
• Late afternoon proceed towards Udupi
• On the way to Udupi spend some time at the Padubidri Beach, one of the Blue Flag certified beaches of Karnataka

• After this visit Kaup Beach and Kaup Lighthouse which is about 14 kilometres from Padubidri
• Night halt at Udupi

Other Places In Mangalore That You Can Add To Your Itinerary

• Panambur Beach
• Aloysius Chapel
• Sultan Battery
• Tannirbhavi Beach
• Milagres Church
• Rosario Cathedral

For your stay in Udupi, you can check out some of the Udupi Resorts here

Tip For The Day: When in Mangalore do taste its famous Ideal ice cream.

Udupi – Coastal Karnataka Tour – Day 2

On Day 2 of your coastal Karnataka trip, you will explore the temple city of Udupi and its vicinity. Udupi figures prominently in the coastal Karnataka tourist places map.

• Early morning proceed to the famous Udupi Sri Krishna Matha for darshan along with other two main temples, Shree Ananteshwara Temple, and Shri Chandramouleeshwara Temple
• After the temple visit, have breakfast and proceed to St Lawrence Church in Attur , which is about 50 kilometres from Udupi

• After spending about 1 hour at the beautiful Attur Church it is time to head to the next destination ( 25 kilometres away ) which is the Varanga Jain temple 

• After spending about 1 hour at the Varanga Jain Temple, you head back to Udupi for lunch

• After lunch visit the  Hastashilpa Heritage Village Museum where you can spend a couple of hours

• In the evening head towards Malpe Beach for water sports including parasailing, banana boat, Jet Skiing etc., and have a nice view of the sunset on the Arabian Sea

• Have a nice dinner either at Malpe Beach at the Fisherman’s Cove or at any other restaurant based on your preferences
• Night halt in Udupi

Other Places In Udupi That You Can Add To Your Itinerary

• Delta Beach

Tip For The Day: Shop for the famous Udupi condiments

Do you want to add more places to visit in Udupi to your itinerary, then check out these places here .

Udupi and Baindur/ Byndoor – Coastal Karnataka Places To Visit – Day 3

Today you will explore some of the beautiful beach places in Karnataka including the exotic St. Mary’s Island. The island is a picturesque island known for its columnar basalt rocks.

• In the morning you head back to Malpe Beach to take the ferry to the beautiful St. Mary’s Island
• Breakfast is at St. Mary’s Island, and you can spend about an hour on the island
• Head back to your hotel and after lunch check out and leave for Baindur which is about 70 kilometres from Udupi

• In Baindur check in to your hotel, we recommend Sai Vishram Resort which is right near the beach
• Spend the evening on the beach enjoying a sunset and water sports or just walking on the sands
• Night halt at Baindur

Tip For The Day: Do watch a Yakshagana performance in Udupi if possible.

Baindur and Kasarkod – Coastal Karnataka Road Trip – Day 4

• Early morning you can take a walk to view a spectacular sunrise from the top of a hillock in Baindur followed by watching the early morning activity on the Baindur beach, also known as Ottinene Beach or Byndoor beach
• You can opt for an exciting ride on an airboat in the backwaters

• After lunch checkout and leave for the next destination which is Murdeshwar at a distance of about 32 kilometres
• Visit the famous Murudeshwar temple and spend time on the beach, indulge in water sports
• Night halt at Murdeshwar

Kasarkod Blue Flag Beach – Day 5

• After breakfast checkout and leave for the next destination which is the Kasarkod Blue Flag Beach at a distance of about 24 kilometres
• Spend a couple of hours at the Kasarkod beach and leave for Gokarna which is about 55 kilometres away
• Check in to the hotel in Gokarna and proceed for lunch, relax in the hotel

• In the evening proceed for an evening dinner cruise aboard the White Pearl
• Night halt in Gokarna, the Om Beach Resort is a good place to stay in Gokarna. you can stay here or any other hotel or resort of your choice

Gokarna – Karnataka Coastal Tourism – Day 6

• In the morning visit the famous Shre Mahabaleshwara Temple of Shiva and the Ganesha Temple
• After breakfast proceed to the Mirjan Fort which is about 22 kilometres from Gokarna and is a historic 16th-century fort
• After lunch visit Om Beach/Gokarna Beach/Kudle Beach and return to the hotel after sunset
• Overnight stay in Gokarna

Other Places In Gokarna That You Can Add To Your Itinerary

• Paradise Beach
• Half-Moon Beach

Gokarna – Karwar – Day 7 – Coastal Karnataka Itinerary 

• If you like trekking, you can do a beach trek starting early in the morning and return to the hotel
• Checkout after breakfast and proceed to Karwar which is about 61 kilometres away

• Check in to the hotel in Karwar and proceed for lunch, we recommend the Devbagh Beach Resort
• After lunch proceed by boat to visit Kali Island and mangroves
• Relax at the beach and watch the sunset in the evening at the beach resort
• Night Halt in Karwar

Other Places In Karwar That You Can Add To Your Itinerary

• Sadashivgadh Fort
• Kurumgad Island
• Oyster Rock Lighthouse
• Durga Temple
• Venkatramana Temple
• Nagnath Temple

Karwar – Day 8 – Coastal Karnataka Itinerary 

• Go for an early morning nature walk and watch the sunrise over the river Kali
• Spend the day in the midst of nature and indulge in water sports or go dolphin spotting
• Lunch and dinner at the resort
• Night halt at Karwar

Karwar – Day 9 – Coastal Karnataka Itinerary 

• Checkout from the resort after breakfast and proceed to your onward destination
• The nearest airport to Karwar is Dabolim Airport of Goa at a distance of about 90 kilometres
• The Coastal Karnataka Itinerary culminates at Karwar

Best Time To Visit Coastal Karnataka | Beach Places In Karnataka

The best time to visit coastal Karnataka is during winter. The ideal time would be between the months of October to February. The weather in coastal Karnataka is pleasant during this time and the humidity is also less.

Our List of Recommended Hotels for Coastal Karnataka Itinerary | Karnataka Beach Tourism 

There are plenty of options to suit every budget and preference for your stay on your coastal Karnataka itinerary. These include some of the best coastal Karnataka resorts, hotels, and homestays. You can book your stay right here!

Booking Your Hotels For Your Coastal Karnataka Itinerary | Coastal Karnataka Road Trip

Here are the recommended restaurants and hotels at the places along the coast of Karnataka. Please click on the links to book the hotels right here.

Click here to choose and book the best hotels/resorts in Mangalore .

Click here to choose and book the best hotels/resorts in Udupi .

Baindur / Byndoor

Click here to choose and book the best hotels/resorts in Byndoor .

Click here to choose and book the best hotels/resorts in Murdeshwar .

Click here to choose and book the best hotels/resorts in Gokarna .

Click here to choose and book the best hotels/resorts in Karwar .

You can book hotels for any destination right here through any of the below options: TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Flights| Self-Drive Car Bookings For Your Coastal Karnataka Road Trip

If you are planning a trip to coastal Karnataka places to visit you can book a cheap flight right here through TripAdvisor or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline and come to Mangalore. If you are thinking of a complete road trip across the coast of Karnataka, or anywhere in India check out the rental car and bus options.

Useful Travel Tips | What to Pack and Carry

• Carry sunscreen, beachwear, refillable water bottles, hat/cap, flip flops
• It is better to wear comfortable clothes – preferable cotton clothes
• Carry your sunglasses
• Carry your Smartphones and DSLRs to click images of Coastal Karnataka
• Carry an umbrella/raincoat during monsoon
• Dress modestly while visiting places of worship like temples/churches etc.
• Try out local food
• Buy souvenirs from locals to promote sustainable tourism
• Keep the environment clean. Avoid usage of plastic and be a responsible traveller by not littering

Coastal Karnataka Road Trip – FAQ

Which are the coastal areas in Karnataka? The coastal Karnataka districts are Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, and Udupi. During a coastal Karnataka road trip, you can cover the best places to visit in Mangalore and Udupi. You can also cover the major Dakshina Kannada tourist Places and Uttara Kannada tourist places.

How long is Karnataka’s coastline? Karnataka’s coastline is about 300 kilometres long.

How is the weather in coastal Karnataka?

The weather is generally humid. It tends to be quite hot during summer and pleasant during winters. The coastal Karnataka region receives fairly heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.

What is the common food of coastal Karnataka? Rice and fish form the staple of coastal Karnataka food, there are differences based on the region. For example, Udupi is known for its vegetarian temple cuisine and also seafood. Check out our post about Coastal Karnataka cuisine for details .

What is the best time to visit coastal Karnataka? The best time to visit coastal Karnataka is during the winter season. The best months to plan a coastal Karnataka road trip is between the months of November to February. During this time the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

Which are the main languages spoken in Coastal Karnataka? Kannada and its different dialects and Tulu are the main languages that are spoken in coastal Karnataka.

Which are the best road trips from Bangalore to coastal Karnataka? Here are some of the best road trips to coastal Karnataka from Bangalore. Coastal Karnataka Tour From Bangalore. Bangalore To Mangalore Road Trip By Car Bangalore To Udupi Road Trip By Car Bangalore To Murudeshwar Road Trip By Car Bangalore To Gokarna Road Trip By Car Bangalore To Karwar Road Trip By Car

How many beaches are there in Karnataka? There are about 30 beaches in Karnataka.

Which coastal Karnataka beaches can be covered in the coastal Karnataka itinerary? The list of beaches in Karnataka includes many famous beaches In Karnataka. As the coastal Karnataka itinerary covers all the beaches places of Karnataka, you can visit the famous beaches like the Blue flag beaches of Padubidri and Kasarkod, beaches of Gokarna, Malpe Beach, beaches of Karwar, etc.

What to wear while visiting places in Coastal Karnataka? It is recommended that you dress lightly as you shall be visiting many beaches. Wear appropriate footwear and be ready with your beachwear too. Even if you are travelling in winter, it can get hot and humid in the afternoons. So do not forget to take your shades and caps as well as sunscreen.

What to wear while visiting temples/churches/mosques in Coastal Karnataka?

Coastal Karnataka places list, includes many temples, churches, and other places of worship. When visiting these places make sure that you are dressed modestly and avoid revealing dresses like shorts, mini-skirts, etc. In short, dress as befits a place of worship.

We hope you find our coastal Karnataka road trip itinerary useful and informative. The itinerary covers many of the Karnataka beach places and other Coastal Places In Karnataka. It is in many ways also an unexplored coastal Karnataka itinerary. If you have any queries, do connect with us.

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19 thoughts on “9-day coastal karnataka itinerary – best coastal karnataka places”.

I am saving your post. Visiting the southern part of Indian has been in my bucket list for a very long time. It is full of natural beauty, heritage and spectacular places.

I had never been to south India and did not get a chance to explore this beautiful state. the places you have mentioned in the post are looking so amazing. would love to visit them someday with family in future. thanks a lot for sharing all details.

Karnataka is a really beautiful state and I am still not visited these places. Every picture looks so beautiful, will surely visit soon!!

Quite a detailed post on Karnataka. I am a beach person and whenever I get a chance I don’t miss it. Karnataka beaches are mesmerizing and besides the detailed post is going to help me a lot.

Loved the photography. The beaches & the church look so serene & tranquil. Would love to visit coastal Karnataka. So much to see & cherish.

I have visited few coastal places in Karnataka, but mostly not. I would definitely love to visit these places that you have listed here.

I have been meaning to travel post pandemic and your coastal Karnataka itinerary is just perfect for me. I love your detailed insights into places of interest in Karnataka. I would start from the beaches I think.

My family is so found of beaches that We have visited most of the places except Karwan. Thanks for sharing such an detailed post.

My family is so found of beaches that We have visited most of the places except Karwan. These places are worth a visit. Thanks for sharing such a detailed post.

The Souther part of India is full of natural beauty. I’ve been to a few coastal places in Karnataka, but not all you’ve listed here. I’d like to visit them with my family someday in the future.

Wow! This is like a Bible for coastal cities of Karnataka. I am drooling at the photos as well as the information. You have got me all excited!

Wow lovely 9 days itinerary. I have done something similar many years ago with my two girl friends. I also added Surathkal to this list. Also, I don’t mind visiting these places over and over again. They are so pretty.

Temples, beaches, churches and islands, your itinerary has just about everything I look for while planning a trip. Hope that I can visit these beautiful places soon!

Coastal Karnataka is a beautiful place, my roommate in Bangalore belonged to Mangalore, and with her I have visited Udupi, Mangalore. From train journey to visiting beaches, food and scenic beauty everything is spectacular.

I am going to save this post as I have never been to Karnataka. But after reading your post I would surely plan to visit. And you have shared all the details very nicely. Thanks dear

You have charted out such a wonderful 9 days coastal visit near Karnataka. Since I am in Bangalore and now that most places are open for travel post covid I would love to explore these places in 9 days using the iternary you have shared here. Like always this is a well thought and well-written post by you guys.

Exploring the beaches of coastal Karnataka has been on my bucket list for quite some time. Your post definitely took me there virtually. I’m saving your post that’s definitely gonna help me when I plan a trip

Yeeyee, right post at the right time . We are going to explore Karnataka in January. Now I am gonna save this Post for my reference.

A picturesque treat for the eyes, your article is tempting me to plan a visit to coastal Karnataka. The minute details that you’ve shared are going to be helpful to the travellers:)

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Complete Guide to Traveling in Karnataka & 9 Hotspots

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I am BLOWN away by Karnataka. For some reason, tourists just don’t spend much time traveling in Karnataka. Backpackers pop over to Hampi (the mysterious boulders) or maybe a trip to Jog Falls and that’s about it. Even Indian nationals were saying,  “holy cow is that REALLY in India!?”  on comments of my Karnataka photos.

Karnataka is kind of this undiscovered state when it comes to international tourism… which means you should get your little booty here asap! I traveled the ENTIRE state for one month with goMowgli and learned so much, so without further ado, here is a little guide to the Indian state of Karnataka.

UPDATE: As of 2018, gomowgli is no longer – sadly! If you still want a tour in India, I recommend checking out my blog post with the best group tours and this post which explains the best day tours for the adventurer !

You’ll have here a quick guide to karnataka, 9 hotspots to visit, and my favorite hotels in Karnataka. All have links to full posts that share more in depth information.

Quick Guide to Traveling in Karnataka

Location: Karnataka is coastal below Goa, above Kerala and goes inland to reach Andhra Pradesh. It also go up to border with Maharashtra.

Language: Kannada

Overview: Karnataka is known for many things like it’s Hoysala Empire, Chamundi Hills (where the story of Dashara comes from), Tiger reserves, Mysore’s royal kings, and silk and incense manufacturing. There are tropical beaches (the coast is one of the wettest areas in India), jungles (the Western Ghats, which are protected because of how many incredible animals live and flora grow there), ancient caves, and some of the oldest temples in the entire world. At one point Karnataka ruled all of India! It also has Asia’s largest population of elephants.

Currency: Indian rupee

Food:  I’ve written a post dedicated to this: Guide to South Indian Food … enjoy because it’s all drool-worthy.

Getting there & away: You can book a flight into Banagalore and take a train or bus anywhere you want. Traffic in Bangalore is terrible. If you are in Mysore and want to fly, it’s cheaper to bus to Bangalore. The buses in Karnataka are known as some of the best in India (although mine broke down once) and my train trips in 2AC were clean and safe. Karnataka is well connected, but in rural areas you’ll have to take crowded locals buses unless you hire a car our join a tour. Mangalore is a huge travel hub, and Hubli is another huge hub (and not worth spending a day in).

Solo Female Travel:  I was on a tour, so rarely totally alone, but I found Karnataka safe. Many of the best places are very rural though, so I wouldn’t suggest traveling alone at night. Make sure you book ahead in rural areas and have someone meet you at bus stations. In Karnataka, dress appropriately.

Places NOT TO MISS in Karnataka

• Bathing Elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp
• Touring Coorg | Thadiyandamol & Iruppu Falls 
• Backpacking Coorg | Chikli Hole, Bylakuppe & Mandalpatti 
• 11 Kick-ass Things to do in Coorg

• Mysore Art & Meeting the local Artisans
• 7 Must-Do’s in Mysore
• Your Mysore Shopping Guide
• Finding the Best Food in Mysore | 8 Mysore Restaurants 

3. Around Mysore

If you only have time for one city, Mysore is the place because there are day trips you can take to experience so much more. There is a crocodile sanctuary nearby, a nearby reservation to see tigers and leopards, many ancient temples, Bahubali the largest monolithic statue in India, and small religious towns, massive waterfalls, and you can visit BR Hills to see even more wild cats & meet locals tribals.

• 8 Day Trips from Mysore
• Tailoring Clothes in India | Khaddi Cotton Tour in Melukote  
• Jungle Safari with Kabini River Jungle Lodge

• 8 Things to do in Hampi
• Bear Watching at the Sloth Bear Resort Near Hampi
• Guide to Hampi | Second Time in Hampi
• Taking my parents to Hampi

5. Around Hampi

People come and go from Hampi without checking out the nearby UNESCO Heritage sites! Crazy! Make sure to take time for a tour (or you can hire a car). Nearby are Aihole and Pattadakal built by the Chalukya in the 4th and 5th centuries. There are 100’s of temples here. It’s some of the oldest stuff you can see in India. Driving through the villages and rural areas here is an event of it’s own and it’s great to take time and get out to take photos and meet local kids. The Badami caves are also a day trip from Hampi and are very intriguing and ancient. The hotels here are scarce and had terrible amenities and food. Bring snacks!

• Aihole and Pattadakal |100’s of barely visited temples
• Why You’ve Got to See the Badami Cave Temples

6. Coastal Karnataka

Worth a visit, but not as good as Goa (Ashwem, Little Vagator, Keri beach) or Kerala (Varkala, Kovalam). Karwar was beautiful because it was empty and pristine- but there wasn’t much to do there plus you have to drive into town to find a restaurant and the roads aren’t easier. I also didn’t see many scooter rentals. Gokarna is popular thanks to Om beach because shaped like “om” but personally, I found it dirty, the food terrible, and I was constantly bothered by domestic toursits with their cameras and even video recording me. Most girls there (both Indian and foreign) discussed not feeling comfortable in a swimming suit. You can also head down to Murudeshwar to see the second biggest Shiva statue in the world .

7. Dandeli and nearby areas

• 8 Adventures in Dandeli, Your Jungle Weekend Getaway

8. Chikmagalur

• Mallandur Homestay & Waterfall Chasing in Chikmagalur
• Chikmagalur Homestay & Trekking the Highest Peak in Karnataka
• Where to Stay Near Incredible Jog Falls | Gundimane
• Nagara Fort / One of the Coolest Forts in Karnataka
• Banavasi Temple | not even lonely planet knows this one
• Are the Belur and Halebid Temples the most impressive in India?
• Birding Boat Ride at River Tern

9. Bangalore

The best place to come and go from in Karnataka if you are flying. This is the biggest city full of expats, traffic, IT industry, big city life, great food, and all the amenities and 5 star hotels you could ask for. I’ve been a couple times, but haven’t spend more than a weekend at a time. Nh7 Bangalore was hosted here but it’s not as good as the Pune one.

• Getting my Western Fix in Bangalore, India
• Luxury Guide to Bangalore, India

Favorite Hotels and Homestays in Karnataka

I stayed at a lot considering I spent a month in the state, so I won’t list them all here- just the ones that really stand out. In all my posts on Karnataka, I mention each place I’ve stayed so the information is there. Here are my favorites:

• Dhyan’s Den in Coorg  – cozy homestay, amazing family
• Green Hotel in Mysore – an actual palace & you can stay in princess rooms
• Indus Valley Ayervedic Center (IVAC)- most famous in all of India
• River Kabini Jungle Lodge in Kabini – just outside Mysore, good chance of seeing wild cats
• Gorukana in BR Hills – luxury cabins in the jungle, amazing spot
• Gundimane near Jog Falls – extremely nice family, cozy rooms, and great food
• Shanthi Guesthouse in Hampi – take a room facing the water

I went on a month-long tour sponsored by goMowgli, and suggest that if you want to see all of the above! It was stressfree and easy. Although the tour was sponsored, all opinions here are my own.

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Share this story, choose your platform, about the author: rachel jones.

I have till date visited Hampi but Coorg I wish to visit and few waterfalls too. Lets see..

WOW. These pictures are seriously awesome. So interesting and unlike anything I’ve ever seen. And those waterfalls, goodness! <3 Excellent, inspiring post

Thanks!! It’s really an amazing spot.

Nice one, Rachel! Will definitely put this one to use as I try to see more of Karnataka. Coorg is still my fav too! Can’t seem to find pandi (pork) curry quite like the one we had at that homestay.

when you’re in goa go to gunpowder which is south indian and they do pandi curry, it’s pretty good

i agree gunpowder was really good each time we have been too . excitingly different from other restaurants . nicely off the beaten track ! cheers http://www.tharobster.wordpress.com

Fantastic is Karnataka Sight Seeing.

Nice coverage of the place. I really like to this blog its very interesting and informative. Thanks for your amazing travel guide and your photos are mind-blowing.

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Karnataka Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to karnataka, india with a local guide, popular karnataka tour guides.

Namaste from incredible India!!! My name is Naveen I come from the Himalayan region of India, so a love of trekking was natural. I have done a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Tourism and Travel College, an Autonomous Body under the Ministry of Tourism. I have around 01-decade of experience in this travel industry. Meeting with new people in the world has been passionate to me for the cultural exchange. My love is designing the ideal itinerary for each of my guests. It always makes me grin when they tell me how much they liked their holiday. I'm looking forward to creating a one-of-a-kind itinerary for my guests.                                                                                                                                  

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Scenic Western Ghats, exotic beaches, carved temples, majestic palaces and manicured gardens adorn the state of Karnataka. Karnataka is a treasure of traveling opportunities for every genre of explorers. With its roots deep in spirituality and rich history, the south Indian state of Karnataka is an important tourist destination in India. Tour My India offers best & affordable tour packages for Karnataka for family, wildlife, nature, honeymoon & spiritual seekers. Come, explore & spend a few days in Karnataka South India with Tour My India by booking Karnataka holiday packages at the best deals & prices.

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Backpacking Karnataka: the ultimate travel guide

This post is a travel guide about backpacking Karnataka in India. Karnataka is one of India’s most underrated states. With Goa to the north and Kerala to the South it is often overlooked.

Many travellers simply pass through, but there are many reasons to travel in Karnataka. In fact, it is a very worthwhile destination on its own. Backpacking Karnataka is a very rewarding experience.  

Why Backpacking Karnataka?

Why Backpacking Karnataka? The answer is simple. Karnataka has it all. Palm fringed beaches, green rolling hills with coffee plantations, jungles teeming with wildlife and ancient temple ruins.

Karnataka has a long history with a rich cultural heritage. The ancient city of Hampi might be the most popular tourist destination. However, the Hoysala temples are older and more beautiful.

At the same time, Karnataka is home to the country’s most progressive and liberal cities. Bangalore is the state capital, but for culture it is hard to beat Mysore. Mysore with its royal palaces is a city of arts and crafts as well as delicious food.  

Rural Karnataka is just as interesting. The 280 kilometer long coastline has small fishing villages and picture perfect beaches. They are great for a quiet and peaceful retreat. So are the scenic hill stations in the Western ghats mountain range. 

Karnataka is not only for culture and history lovers, but also for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. There are great hiking opportunities as well as the chance to see wild animals. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve includes a number of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Karnataka has the biggest elephant population in India and is second if it comes to the amount of tigers.

As you can see there are plenty of things to see and do if you go backpacking Karnataka. Don’t make the misstake to overlook this state full of history, culture and nature.

Visas for Backpacking Karnataka

For backpacking Karnataka everybody needs a valid passport and visa for India. Most nationalities can request an e- visa online . Some can only get a visa through an embassy.

If you are from Pakistan things are more complicated and you need a government clearance as well.

How to travel to Karnataka

by plane : For international visitors it is probably best to fly into Bangalore Kempegowda international airport. From Bangalore you can continue your journey in Karnataka by train or bus. From within India it is more sustainable to travel by train.

by train : Karnataka has an excellent train network that connects it with the rest of India. Trains run from the main cities in Karnataka to Mumbai, Chennai, Madurai and beyond.

Places to visit when Backpacking Karnataka

Bangalore is Karnataka’s capital city. Because of its IT technology it is also known as the Silicon valley of India and is one of the most liberal cities in the country. People from all over India come and flock to the city to find a job in technology

As a result, Bangalore is multicultural and dynamic. Even though it is one of the fastest growing urban areas in India, Bangalore remains a pleasant place to live in. It is also known as the Garden city of India and is surprisingly green with beautiful parks and gardens.

Bangalore is a great place to get to know modern India and join its young people in trendy cafes, pubs and beer breweries. The food scene in Bangalore is great too with restaurants serving every regional cuisine imaginable. 

Recommended time : Bangalore lacks any major tourist attractions. One day in Bangalore should be enough to see the few historic sights and enjoy some of the city’s best culinary highlights. 

Accomodation : Locul central  is close to Cubbon Park and is a clean and professional hostel if you don’t mind staying in a dormitory.  Locul uptown  from the same owner is near Bangalore palace and has both dormitories as well as private rooms.

Bangalore might be the biggest city in Karnataka, but Mysore remains its cultural capital. The kingdom of Mysore has a long history as a center of art and culture in southern India. It started as a vassal state from the Vijayanagara empire, but steadily gained more autonomy and eventually ruled most of Karnataka. 

The Mysore kings from the Wodeyar family fought several wars including the four Anglo-Mysore wars. in 1799 Mysore lost and the British transformed it into a princely state. Even after independence, The Wodeyars kept a prominent position in politics. 

Mysore still is a city full of royal palaces, colonial mansions and elegance. It is without doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Southern India. The age old traditional crafts of Mysore include silk weaving, sandal wood carving, rosewood inlay, sandal soap making and the famous Mysore paintings. 

Recommended time : One day in Mysore should be enough to see the Mysore palace, explore the deva raja market and visit the Chamundeshwari temple.

Mysore has lots of interesting day trips too. For example, you can visit the former capital of Srirangapatna , the Ranganathittu bird sanctuary, the ancient Hoysala temple at Somnathpur and the Tibetan settlement of Bylakuppe . Therefore I recommend at least 3 days in Mysore.

Accomodation : In Mysore I can recommend   Mansion 1907 . Most of all because of its great location near the bus station, Mysore palace and Devaraja market. This hostel has friendly owners, a great breakfast menu and female only dorms. During the tourist season they have free yoga classes in the morning and you can rent bicycles to explore Mysore and its surroundings. There are other hostels in Mysore as well such as Zostel and Roambay hostel.

Hampi was the 14th century capital of the Vijayanagara empire. A center of arts, culture, literature and philosophy and one of the richest cities of India. 

The Vijayanagara empire was one of the last great hindu kingdoms in Southern India. What remains is a large site with over 1600 monuments including forts, temples, shrines and palaces.

Hampi is one of the highlights of India. The main reason to come are the ancient temple ruins. The monuments of Hampi are a UNESCO World heritage site and remarkably well preserved. It has a scenic location too. The Tunghabadra river and the rocky terrain is great for outdoor activities like bouldering and rafting.

Recommended time : the archeological complex of Hampi covers a large area and it would be impossible to see all that remains. You need at least 3 days in Hampi to see the most beautiful structures such as the Virupaksha temple, the stone chariot, the elephant stables, the monkey temple and sanapur lake. 

Accomodation : the best place to stay in Hampi is a homestay. Homestays with good reviews in this area include  Srinivasa homestay ,  Arjun homestay  and  Vinayaka homestay

Gokarna is a small village. For a long time it were only Hindu pilgrims that visited this sleepy temple town. However, it is becoming increasingly popular as one of India’s best beach destinations.  

Gokarna has plenty of beaches to choose from. Some are so remote that they can only be accessed by boat or on foot. The Golden trail is an 8 kilometer long hiking path connecting Gokarna’s beaches with each other. Most of the trek is along the shore of the Arabian sea with beautiful views on the ocean.

Part of the charm of Gokarna is that it is still off the beaten path, but with enough facilities to enjoy. There are enough hotels, restaurants and yoga retreats to keep you happy, but it doesn’t feel crowded. For many, Gokarna is a more quiet and peaceful alternative to Goa.   

Recommended time : Gokarna is about relaxing and for me 3 days was enough to do so. Besides the stunning Gokarna beach trek you can visit the temples in Gokarna town and simply relax at one of its palm fringed beaches.  

Accomodation : The Namaste yoga farm  is not necessarily a budget option, but it’s scenic location in a lush green garden at Kudlee beach make it well worth the price. For backpackers there is the  Zostel hostel  near Gokarna town on the cliff overlooking Gokarna’s main beach and in walking distance from Kudlee beach. Zostel is a popular option and it’s best to make a reservation, especially during the weekends.

Mangalore & Udupi

Mangalore and Udupi are not the most beautiful cities in Karnataka. They are still worth a visit though. These coastal towns are the gateway to great food and pristine beaches that see even less tourists than Gokarna. 

I ended up in Udupi because of my studies in global health that included a seminar at the nearby Manipal university. The main attraction in Udupi is the Krishna temple that is an important pilgrimage center for Hindus. There are no other obvious tourist sights but the area’s lush green nature does not dissapoint.

I mostly fell in love with the food. The udupi thali is a set meal with a number of vegetarian curries and is famous all over India. Mangalore has spicy seafood dishes and delicious curries based on coconut and tamarind. Spending your days trying the local cuisine and exploring beaches that you have all to yourself is the charm of Mangalore and Udupi.  

Recommended time : 1 or 2 days is enough to see Udupi and Mangalore

Accomodation : In Mangalore I can recommend Rahul Residency or Urban Retreat Homestay

Belur & Halebid temples

The Belur and Halebid temples are by far the most stunning temples in Karnataka. Hampi might impress you by the vast amount of temples and ruins. It is Belur and Halebid though that will impress you by its beauty and detail. 

The Belur and Halebid temples are also much older. They are some of the best examples of the ornate and intricately carved Hoysala temples. The Hoysala empire ruled much of South India prior to the Vijayanagara empire that established it’s capital in Hampi. 

Belur and Halebid are quite close to each other and both towns were once the capital of the Hoysala kingdom. Belur is the oldest temple and it took 103 years to complete. The result is one of the most intricately carved temples in all of India. Halebid has the largest Hoysala temple and its carvings are equally stunning. 

Recommended time : The Belur and Halebid temples are easy to see in a day. It will be a very long day trip from either Mysore or Bangalore. It is recommended to combine the temples with the nearby scenic hill station of Chikmagalur with its green nature and coffee plantations. 

Accomodation : There are not a lot of options to stay in Belur or Halebid itself. They are also not very good value for money. I would recommend staying in the scenic hill station of Chikmagalur. I slept at the clean and professional  Chalukya comforts  in the center of the city.  If you have your own transport you can also opt for one of the homestays close to nature such as  blue bell homestay

Coorg with its rolling hills and gushing waterfalls is one of the most scenic hill stations in Karnataka. Because of its misty mountains and green landscape it is also known as the Scotland of India

Coorg or Kodagu is a great place for hiking. You can climb mountain peaks, walk through coffee and spice plantations or trek to beautiful waterfalls. Whatever trail you follow, there will be beautiful views and lush greenery all around you. 

Recommended time : 2 or 3 days is enough time to see the Kodagu area. This gives you time to visit the Abbey and Iruppu waterfalls and do one of the hiking trails such as the Thandanmole trek. It is also possible to make a day trip to the Tibetan settlement of Bylakuppe.  

Accomodation : Stay Simple spice farm is a great place to stay in Kodagu.

Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

Karnataka has no less than 5 national parks, 18 wildlife sanctuaries and 9 bird sanctuaries. Most of them are situated in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the largest protected forest area of India that covers the Whestern ghats.

The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is a unique ecosystem. It is home to the largest elephant population in India as well as a large number of wild cats such as tigers and leopards. This makes Karnataka a great place for wildlife and nature lovers.

In Karnataka the Nilgiri Biosphere includes Nagarhole and Bandipur National Park, the Brahmagiri Wildlife sanctuary and BR Hills tiger reserve . Going on a safari in any of these parks is a highlight when backpacking Karnataka.

Accomodation : Nagarhole and Bandipur are the most popular places for a wildlife safari. In Bandipur Dhole’s den is a very good option. BR hills is a more budget friendly safari destination. One of my top recommendations in BR Hills is the Gorukana Resort . They offer eco cabins and a tree house in the forest. 

When to travel in Karnataka

The best time to visit Karnataka is between October and March. In October temperatures cool down and you might have a chance to join the festivities for Dussehra and Diwali. India’s biggest festival that sees large celebrations in Mysore.

Temperatures remain pleasant till March. In April and May it becomes extremely hot. In June it is the start of the monsoon that lasts till September and will see lots of rainfall. Kodagu is one of the wettest areas in India.

Backpackers Accommodation in Karnataka

Accomodation in India is cheap and there are lots of options in different price ranges. New hostels with clean and professional dormitories are opening up throughout India. Zostel Hostel is a chain with clean and good quality dorms. They have branches in Bangalore, Mysore, Gokarna or Coorg.

Oyo rooms are a great option to look for accommodation if you prefer private rooms. They have different price classes and are not necessarily the cheapest, but they sometimes have very good deals available.

If you want to visit the national parks beware that there are not a lot of budget options. The safari lodges are well worth the price though and often include an all inclusive package with food and safaris.

If you are looking for off the beaten path homestays I can recommend NotonMap . as you can guess these places are remote and small scale. You stay with local families in rural India and therefore it is a great way to learn more about India’s diverse cultures.

Food in Karnataka

Don’t make the same mistake I did by underestimating the variety of food in India. There is actually no such thing as Indian food. Every region has its very own cuisine and the indian thali ( a set meal ) will be different from place to place, even in Karnataka itself.

The Udupi thali is famous all over India. Coorg is known to be one of the few places in India where pork is on the menu. Mangalore and Udupi have great seafood dishes with spiced curries and fried fish. 

The origin of the dosa was also in Udupi, but has found regional varieties throughout Karnataka. There are butter dosas in Bangalore and masala dosas in Mysore. Both Bangalore and Mysore are great food destinations with excellent restaurants to try Karnataka food. 

One of the things that characterize the food in Karnataka is the use of ragi. In rural areas ragi (finger millet) is just as common as rice. Curries are mopped up with little pieces of ragi mudde. 

Restaurants in Karnataka do not serve Karnatakan food exclusively. It is very easy to find popular south indian dishes like idli, appam and sambhar. North Indian food is also quite common with chicken butter masala and paneer curries.

Language and culture in Karnataka

Karnataka’s history was defined by the Hoysala and Vijayanagara empires. Both eras saw a rich culture in which arts, literature, philosophy and religion flourished. The Hoysalas left behind hundreds of intricately carved temples.

Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage is visible in its unique folk art. Most famous is the Dollu Kunitha, a dance performance with drums. Karnataka also played an important role in the development of South Indian classical music. Purandara Dasa was a 16th century philosopher. He composed over 75,000 songs and is the father of carnatic music.  

Karnataka also has some beautiful crafts. Mysore is famous for its Mysore paintings and silk weaving as well as sandalwood carvings.  Ivory carving is also typical of Karnataka and is practised throughout the state. 

Karnataka has multiple languages, but Kannada is the most widely spoken and official language of the state.

How to travel in Karnataka

by train : The best way to travel through Karnataka is by train. There are convenient night trains between Bangalore and Hampi as well as Bangalore and Gokarna. Trains between Bangalore and Mysore are frequent and the Mysore express only takes 2 hours.

The only disadvantage is that trains do get full and it is better to reserve seats beforehand as soon as possible.You can book train tickets online directly through the  Indian railways  (IRCTC). Unfortunately this is not always a straightforward process. For a small extra fee you can use  12goAsia  or  Makemytrip . 

If you plan to buy your tickets online at the last minute I can recommend  Confirmtkt  that gives an indication how high the chances are that a possible waiting list ticket will become an actual ticket. 

If you prefer not to book tickets online I strongly advise you to go to a train station on your first day.

I always travelled in sleeper class. For me, this is ok, but if you like more privacy it is better to book a compartment. In theory seats are reserved, so there should not be more people in the train than there are seats. In practice though there will always be a surplus of human beings. If you find one or more persons on your seat, just be firm about your reservation and that the whole seat is yours.

by bus : If trains are full and you could not get a ticket. Don’t panic. There are also frequent buses between the major cities in Karnataka. You can check timetables and book tickets through Redbus . Some places in Karnataka like Coorg can only be reached by bus.

Useful Apps for backpacking Karnataka

Ola : Taxis and tuk tuks are cheap in India, but the use of a taxi hailing app makes negotiating a price much easier for travellers. Uber works in Karnataka as well, but it’s useful to have both. I used Ola a lot in Mysore and Bangalore.

Ola also has a tuk tuk option that is one of the best and most affordable way to travel for shorter distances. I never had to wait long for a Ola or Uber to come and most of the time when I ordered the pool option I had no other passengers.

Travelkhana : Are you on the train and hungry and don’t feel like eating the somewhat dubious food on the train? With travelkhana you can order food that will be delivered to you on the next station in your Karnataka itinerary

Money matters for Backpacking Karnataka

There are ATMS in most major cities like Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore. However, In India, you never know. I would not solely rely on ATM’s. Especially in smaller towns, the ATMS might not work or run out of money. My advice is to also bring cash in euros or dollars.

Travelling in Karnataka is cheap. If you stay in budget guesthouses and eat local food you can easily get by on less than $20 dollar a day. For 30$ a day you can travel comfortably throughout Karnataka, staying in somewhat better places.

Costs of travel in Karnataka

Accommodation : Less than 10 euro for a dormitory and less than 15 euro for a basic private room

Food : Street Food is available for 2 – 3 Euro. A complete meal in a budget restaurant will be less than 5 Euro. Probably a little bit more in a mid range restaurant in Bangalore or Mysore.

Transport : Around 4 EURO for a bus journey from Mysore to Kushalnagar (for Bylakuppe) or 2 – 3 EURO for a train ticket from Mysore to Bangalore.

Tours : Tours will be your biggest expense if you opt for them. The most expensive tours in Karnataka are the wildlife safaris in Nagarhole or Bandipur National Park. In general these places aren’t really budget friendly for backpackers. There are few affordable accommodation options and you need tours if you want to see and do something. 

Safety when Backpacking Karnataka

In general, Karnataka is a safe place for travellers. Crime is rare and people are friendly. With common precautions you can save yourself a lot of troubles. Opportunity theft does happen. Don’t flash around with your wealth and keep your valuables safe.

The biggest risks in Karnataka are related to your health. Diarrhoea is the most common health issue among travellers. Bring a water filter with you and a hand sanitizer to minimize the risk.

Be careful with street food and dodgy restaurants. If it comes to street food I always look where the local people go. If a place is busy it is probably safe to try. The times I got an upset stomach was mostly due to mid range tourist restaurants where you can’t see what is happening in the kitchen. Ask if they use filtered water to clean vegetables and watch out with salads.

Karnataka has lots of sunshine and in April and May it can get really hot. To protect yourself from heat stroke or sunburn bring adequate protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.  

Solo female travel in Karnataka

With all the news about sexual violence in India you are probably wondering if it’s still safe to travel as a female. My short answer is yes and I travelled on my own throughout India several times without any real problems.

The good news is that in my experience South India is easier than North India. Bangalore is a very modern and liberal city. But also in smaller towns like Mysore or Gokarna I felt absolutely safe. Karnataka was a very welcome change from the male attention you get in, for example, Rajasthan .  

Unfortunately sexual violence remains a real problem and although less prominent in Karnataka, it does exist. As a woman travelling alone you might be stared at or get some rude comments. Below I will give some advice to prevent worse and you will most likely be safe.

Solo Female Travel Tips

Dress Modestly : Leave your bikini, short skirts and tank tops at home. Make sure your shoulders and legs are covered. Best is to buy a shalwar kameez. They are very comfortable, lightweight and easy to wash.

Keep your distance with men : Don’t accept any invitation from a single man or let them take you somewhere quiet. This includes shopkeepers wanting to show you something special in the back of their store. In your interactions with men it is best to stay polite, but keep your distance. Getting too friendly is sometimes interpreted as an invitation for more.  

Look as if you know where you are going : Even if you are completely lost, look self-assured and act as if you know where you are going. Make it a rule that once it gets dark your back at your hotel, unless you are with other people. If you feel someone is following you, try to look for other woman in the street and ask for help. Often informing passersby of a dodgy situation will scare away a possible offender.

Avoid crowds : It’s best to avoid crowds, especially during festivals like Holi. As the day progresses men often get drunk and intoxicated and they become rowdy and annoying.  A safe way to enjoy festivals in India is to find a safe spot from where to witness the celebrations or stay close to other women and families if they are around.

Use your instinct : When I travel I always use my instinct. If you don’t trust a situation, get out of there. This works the other way around as well. Most people in India are very friendly and have good intentions.

Sustainable Travel in Karnataka

Karnataka is a beautiful state, but to preserve its national parks and nature, it is important to be aware of the possible negative impacts mass tourism can have. Traveling sustainably in Karnataka, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community. Luckily, Karnataka itself has lots of community-based and eco-tourism initiatives.

Support the local community:  You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, markets and restaurants. It is better to try South Indian cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. South Indian food is very vegetarian friendly and it is easy to follow a vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

Karnataka has a number of community based tourism initiatives with excellent homestays. Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Karnataka has a well-developed public transportation system with trains and buses. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Leave no trace principle : I encourage you to take all your trash back with you when you go on a safari in Karnataka’s beautiful nature or hike its hills and dispose of it responsibly. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. Karnataka is a state with a Hindu majority that is just opening up to tourism. Therefore, learn about the local customs and traditions beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Kannada, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Resources about Backpacking Karnataka

Lonely Planet : Besides the huge Lonely Planet of India there is a separate Lonely Planet for South India and Kerala that I recommend if you wish to visit only Southern India. Lonely Planet remains one of the best guides for backpacking Karnataka.

Rough Guide : the rough guide is a good alternative to the lonely planet. They also have a seperate guide for South India that includes Karnataka.

If you are interested in travel in other Indian states I can recommend my posts about Backpacking Rajasthan and Backpacking Kerala .

Disclaimer : This post with a Karnataka travel guide about backpacking Karnataka contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

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