Tourist Attractions in Karnataka

Karnataka, situated in southern India, has plenty in store for the visitors. Offering a perfect blend historical and modern tourist destination and being blessed with nature's bounty, the state always delights its visitors. The state which is known for its Carnatic music all over the world is home to two of India's world heritage sites, Hampi and Pattadakkal and some of the most beautiful temples, whose architectural splendor mesmerizes the tourists. Karnataka also has some of the most amazing waterfalls in southern India like Jog Falls, Shivanasamudra Falls, Abbi Falls, and Irrupu falls, Manikyandhara, Kallatti Falls and Chunchanakatte Falls. Rich in scenic beauty, the state is also home to wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations which draw lots of tourists. Its capital city Bangalore itself offers a great experience to its visitors with its forts and parks and cosmopolitan culture. Scroll further and learn all about the prominent tourist destinations in the state of Karnataka.

Places To See in Karnataka

Bangalore
Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, is now renowned as India's 'Silicon Valley', thanks to its fast growing software industry. The city once known as the 'pensioner's paradise' draws lots of people towards it mainly due to the climate which is reasonably cool when compared to other south Indian cities. Located at 1000 meters above the sea level and known as the 'gateway to south India', Bangalore is also famous for its forts, monuments, gardens, parks not to forget the mesmerizing shopping experience.

Hampi
One of the prominent tourist destinations, Hampi was the capital of the famous Vijayanagara dynasty which ruled the state from 14th century to 16th century. It is said that the city derived its name from the Tungabhadra River on whose banks, the city was built. Here, you get to see the ancient ruins that lay intertwined with the huge rocks which are stretched out for 25 kilometers with more than 500 monuments. Pattadakkal is another famous heritage town where the visitors get to marvel at the Badami Chalukya art. The Virupaksha temple which was constructed in 745 AD, Sangameshvara temple and Galganatha temple here are worth visiting. Both Pattadakkal and Hampi are included in the list of 'World Heritage Sites' by UNESCO.

Coorg
Coorg is one of the prominent hill stations in Karnataka. This place located at a distance of 260 kilometers from Bangalore is famous for its mesmerizing waterfalls, coffee plantations and orange orchards. Also known by the name 'Madikeri' and 'Kodagu', this district also shares its border with the state of Kerala.

Hassan
Hassan, the district located on the borders of Western Ghats is renowned for its temples which serve as the epitomes of Hoysala architecture. The history of Hassan is associated with the history of Gangas and Hoysalas. The district is famous for monuments of Hoysala style temples dedicated to 'Lord Virupakshehswara' and 'Lord Channakeshava' in Belur, Halebidu and Shravanabelagola.

Mysore
Mysore, the palace city of south India is one of the popular tourist destinations in Karnataka. The beautiful and mesmerizing city which presents a perfect blend of modernity and rich traditions has plenty in store for the visitors including its majestic palaces, temples and royal gardens. Each one of the temples and palaces in Mysore takes the visitors back to an era when the city was ruled by Wodeyar royal family. Plan a trip to Mysore and witness the rich cultural traditions and the legacy of Karnataka.

Udupi
Udupi, located at the western coast of Karnataka is known for its famous Chandramouleshwara temple which is a prominent pilgrim center. Udupi is also known for its cuisine all over the country. The famous Kollur Mookambika temple which is another prominent pilgrimage center is just 80 kilometers from Udupi.

Mangalore
Mangalore, the prominent port city of Karnataka houses many prominent temples, beaches and holy places. The visitors also get to see plenty of sober beaches where a lot of tourists head to spend time in peace and solitude. Also known as Mangalapuram, the city is famous for ancient temples, mosques and churches. The Karwar and Ullal beaches near Mangalore attract thousands of tourists every year.

Bandipur National Park
The best preserved wildlife sanctuary in southern India, Bandipur National Park of Karnataka, welcome the visitors with its wide variety of wildlife, especially its tiger and elephant reserves. One of the most sought after national parks, this is place must be there in your travel itinerary.

Karnataka is a haven for tourists with its serene beaches and architectural marvels. If you are planning a trip to Karnataka, the above written article will be of great assistance.