Best Tourist Attraction in Karnataka
#1 Bengaluru – The Garden City
Highlights: Gardens, Technology Hub, Nightlife, Breweries, Shopping for traditional South Indian weaves.
Best Time to Visit: The weather is mostly very pleasant and perfect all through the year. Otherwise, September to March is the ideal time to visit.
Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore) is the capital city of Karnataka and a vibrant blend of old and new. Known as the "Silicon Valley of India," this city is a hub for technology and innovation, but it is equally renowned for its parks, historical landmarks, and exciting culinary scene.
- Bangalore Palace: This 19th-century palace inspired by Windsor Castle is a majestic architectural marvel and exudes unmissable regal opulence. It is spread across 1 acre of land and flaunts a blend of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture.
- Vidhana Soudha: This is a famous landmark spread across 60 acres. It houses the Secretariat and State Legislature. This striking structure is built in Mysore Neo-Dravidian architecture. You can visit it from 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday.
- ISKCON Temple: ISKCON temples are spread across India and this one in Bengaluru is a must-visit. The serene atmosphere, the chantings and the sacred aura make it a sought-after destination in the city.
- Cubbon Park: Shri Chāmarajendra (Cubbon) Park is one of the most popular landmarks of the city. Also known as the lung of the city it is perfect for morning walks or evening strolls or even for family picnics.
- Lalbagh Botanical Gardens: As the name suggests, this exotic garden boasts of century-old trees, rare flowers from the world over and manicured lawns Lalbagh boasts a stunning glasshouse modelled after London’s Crystal Palace.
- Bannerghatta Biological Park: This one is for animal lovers. Beautifully conserved, this park is spread across 1800 acres and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
For some chill time, you can visit,
MG Road & Brigade Road:
These two spots offer high-end shopping experiences alongside local handicraft stores for all age groups. You are sure to find something you can take back with you for yourself and your loved ones.Vibrant Nightlife:
The city’s vibrant pub culture, with places like Toit, Pecos, and Arbor Brewing Company, make it a nightlife hotspot. From fresh brews to titillating culinary escapades, Bengaluru doesn’t disappoint. Do explore the popular hotspots if you can, while in the city.#2 Mysuru – The City of Magnificent Palaces and Celebrations
Highlights: Royal Heritage, Festivals, Silk Sarees
Best Time to Visit: September to February, especially during the Dussehra festival.
The moment you say Mysore/Mysuru an image of the magnificent Mysore Palace comes to our mind, especially during Dussehra when the palace is illuminated with a thousand lights. Mysuru often referred to as the cultural capital of Karnataka, is known for its royal heritage and grand festivities. Some interesting places to visit are:
- Mysuru Palace: Obviously! One of the most magnificent palaces in India, Mysuru Palace is the epitome of Indo-Saracenic architecture and royal grandeur. It is perfectly maintained and continues to mesmerise with its old-world charm and opulence.
- Chamundi Hill: Home to the revered Chamundeshwari Temple, this place is an important pilgrimage site and offers an unmatched view of the city.
- St. Philomena’s Church: This Gothic-style cathedral is one of the largest in India and is known for its stunning stained-glass windows.
- Brindavan Gardens: Located just outside the city, the Brindavan Gardens, with its musical fountains, are a must-visit for a relaxing evening.
- Mysore Silk Sarees: For those interested in shopping, don’t leave without purchasing a Mysuru silk saree, renowned for its craftsmanship and quality.
#3 Coorg – The Scotland of India
Highlights: Coffee Plantations, Trekking, Waterfalls
Best Time to Visit: October to May.
This is probably the most popular hill station in Karnataka. Also known as Kodagu, it is nestled in the Western Ghats and known for its ample greenery, a serene atmosphere coffee plantation, and romantic mist-covered hills. Coorg is a perfect getaway for everyone — nature lovers, adventure-seekers, couples, or large family/friend groups.
You will find one thing in common across Coorg, it’s the coffee plantations!
- Abbey Falls: You can start your trek with this stunning waterfall which is a popular tourist attraction. Surrounded by coffee plantations, its River Kaveri cascades from a height of 70 metres creating a spectacular view.
- Raja’s Seat: A favourite spot for the Kodagu kings, this place is ideal for enjoying breathtaking sunsets. The historic fort of Madikeri is under a kilometre away from this place so don’t forget to visit it as well.
- Dubare Elephant Camp: If you're a wildlife enthusiast, the Dubare Elephant Camp offers an opportunity to interact with elephants.
Other activities that you can indulge in,
- Trekking: Trekking trails like Tadiandamol and Brahmagiri are some of the popular spots that you can explore.
- Coffee Plantation Tours: Take a tour of one of the many coffee estates to learn about coffee cultivation and enjoy a fresh cup of locally brewed coffee.
#4 Hampi – The Beauty Amongst the Ruins
Highlights: Ancient Temples, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rock Climbing
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been gaining quite a lot of attention for its unique landscape and historical significance. This city was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, but today, the ruins beckons and intrigues all to the grandeur of the empire that once existed.
The Hampi Group of Monumentsboasts an impressive collection of ruins that date back to the 14th century. The site spans over 4,100 hectares and includes temples, palaces, market streets, and religious and military structures.
Some notable monuments of this complex include,
- Virupaksha Temple: One of the oldest functioning temples in India, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its towering gopuram.
- Shri Vijaya Vittala Temple Complex: Home to the iconic stone chariot, the Vittala Temple is an architectural marvel, known for its musical pillars.
- Lotus Mahal: Also, known as Chitrangini Mahal this was once used as a retreat for royal women. This mahal flaunts a beautiful symmetry and is a fine example of the Vijayanagara style of architecture.
- Hampi Bazaar: Once a thriving marketplace, today Hampi Bazaar is lined with ruins, but you can still find stalls selling handicrafts and local artefacts.
- Elephant Stables: As the name suggests, this was once the stable for royal elephants. This structure suffered extensive damage during the Mughal attack on Hampi, which eventually led to the collapse of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1565 A.D.
Other attractions include:
- Matanga Hill: Climb up to Matanga Hill, especially during sunrise or sunset for a stunning view of Hampi. The hike takes roughly 30 minutes to complete and is absolutely worth it.
- Rock Climbing: The boulder-strewn landscape of Hampi also offers excellent opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering.
#5 Gokarna – The Quiet Coastal Retreat
Highlights: Beaches, Yoga Retreats, Temples
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
A backpacker’s delight, Gokarna is a small coastal town known for its pristine beaches and spiritual significance. For a more relaxed and peaceful beach experience, Gokarna is the place to be.
Some of the popular beaches in Gokarna are,
- Gokarna Beach: Very close to the Mahabaleshwar Temple, this beach is extremely inviting, soothing and perfect to relax on and take in its natural beauty.
- Om Beach: Named after its distinctive shape, Om Beach is popular for its unique shape. You can enjoy water sports here, hike to Om Beach Rock View, or enjoy a soothing sunset.
- Kudle Beach: A secluded beach, ideal for those looking for solitude. The sunsets here are just special.
- Paradise Beach/Full Moon Beach: This is a unique beach and is covered by rocks of up to 70% and white sand. It was once a hippie’s paradise.
- Half Moon Beach: This one can be accessed by hiking or taking a motorboat from Om Beach. It is not very popular with families because of the difficulty in accessibility. But we feel it’s worth the hike.
Other attractions that can be explored are,
- Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple: Located close to the Gokarna beach, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a key pilgrimage site.
- Yoga and Wellness Retreats: Gokarna has several wellness retreats offering yoga and meditation programs, making it a great place to rejuvenate both body and mind. Do your research before arriving here and choose the one that looks authentic and is popular.
#6 Chikmagalur – The Undisputed Coffee Land of Karnataka
Highlights: Coffee Plantations, Trekking, Waterfalls
Best Time to Visit: September to March.
Famous for its sprawling coffee estates and lush green hills, Chikmagalur is another hill station located in the Western Ghats.
- Mullayanagiri Peak: This is the highest peak in Karnataka, offering stunning views of the surroundings. It is a popular spot for trekking and nature walks.
- Baba Budan Giri/Chandradrona: Baba Budangiri is a significant religious site for both Hindus and Muslims. It is said that the famous Muslim saint Baba Budan brought 7 seeds of coffee from Saudi Arabia by hiding them in his beard and planting them on the slopes of Chandragiri.
- Hebbe Falls: A hidden gem amidst the coffee plantations, Hebbe Falls is a picturesque spot for a day trip.
- Coffee Plantation Tours: Chikmagalur is also known for its coffee estates like Coorg, where visitors can learn about how coffee is made, taste different brews and stock up on some of the finest ones produced here.
#7 Belur and Halebidu – The Epitome of Hoysala Architecture
Highlights: Temple Architecture, Historical Significance
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
These two exquisite small towns in Karnataka are famous for their Hoysala temples, which are known for their unique sculptures.
- Chennakesava Temple (Belur): Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is an architectural masterpiece with elaborate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
- Hoysaleswara Temple (Halebidu): This is popular for its massive Nandi statues a beautiful stone-carved façade that is truly mesmerising.
- Yagachi Dam: Gushing and roaring this dam offers a beautiful setting for picnics and water sports.
#8 Bandipur National Park – Wildlife Adventure
Highlights: Safari, Wildlife Photography, Tiger Reserve
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
India’s pride and one of the best-managed tiger reserves — Bandipur National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is home to a variety of wild cats and several species of birds.
- Safari: The park offers both jeep safaris and bus safaris, where you can spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Bird Watching: Bandipur is a paradise for bird watchers with over 200 species of birds
- Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta/Gopalswami Hills: These beautiful green hills are home to an ancient temple and offers stunning views of the surroundings.
#9 Bijapur (Vijayapura) – The City of Domes
Highlights: Islamic Architecture, Historical Monuments
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Bijapur, also known as Vijayapura, is renowned for its impressive Islamic architecture, with grand monuments, domes, and minarets that stand as reminders of its glorious past.
- Gol Gumbaz: It is one of the largest domes in the world and is famous for its whispering gallery.
- Ibrahim Rauza: Often called the "Taj Mahal of the South," this tomb complex houses a mausoleum and a mosque.
- Jama Masjid: One of the largest mosques in Southern India, this mosque is known for its spacious prayer hall and elegant arches.
#10 Udupi – A Spiritual and Coastal Getaway
Highlights: Temples, Beaches
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
The moment you are here Udupi, all we think about is the variety of food items that we so love — but it is much more than that. Udupi is a charming coastal town known for its rich spiritual heritage, temples, and of course, delicious cuisine. It’s also a gateway to the beautiful beaches along the Arabian Sea.
- Sri Krishna Temple: The main attraction of Udupi and known for its unique features, rituals and the vibrant Paryaya festival that is held every two years. Here the Lord Krishna is worshipped through a silver-plated window.
- Malpe Beach: For a relaxed time at the beach, Malpe offers the ideal set-up. You can also take a ferry ride to St. Mary’s Island, a beautiful island known for its volcanic rock formations.
- Kaup Beach and Lighthouse: Located south of Udupi, Kaup Beach is famous for its picturesque lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
Udupi Cuisine: The birthplace of one of the most popular cuisines in India, this town is famous for its delicious vegetarian food, especially dosas, idli, and hearty meals comprising multiple dishes like sambhar, rasam, curd rice, vegetable curries, payasam and more.
#11 Jog Falls – India’s Second Highest Waterfall
Highlights: Waterfall, Scenic Beauty, Adventure Activities
Best Time to Visit: August to December, during and right after the monsoon when the falls are at their fullest.
Formed by the Sharavathi River and located in the Western Ghats, it is one of the highest waterfalls in India. Dropping from a height of 830 feet, it is a breathtaking natural wonder and a must-visit destination.
Jog Falls Viewpoint: The primary viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the falls, especially spectacular during the monsoon when the water flow is at its peak.
Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Linganamakki Dam and the Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.
#12 Shravanabelagola – The Sacred Jain Pilgrimage Site
Highlights: Ancient Temples, Jain Heritage, Monolithic Statue
Best Time to Visit: October to March, with special significance during the Mahamasthakabhisheka festival.
It is a popular pilgrim site and is visited by Jains from all over the world.
- Gommateshwara: Shravanabelagola is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Jains and is known for its towering monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gommateshwara), which stands at 57 feet. It is carved out of a block of granite and is one of the largest monolithic statues in the world.
- Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri Hills: The two hills are home to two ancient Jain temples.
- Mahamasthakabhisheka Festival: This event attracts lakhs of devotees from around the world as this happens every 12 years. During this festival, the colossal statue is bathed in milk, saffron, and other sacred liquids.
#13 Karwar – A Tranquil Beach Destination
Highlights: Beaches, River Cruises, Historical Sites
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Karwar, located on the northernmost coast of Karnataka is famous for its quiet beaches, coupled with the town’s laidback vibe and untouched beauty making it a perfect destination for ultimate relaxation.
- Karwar Beach: The town’s main beach, Karwar Beach, or Rabindranath Tagore Beach is perfect for a stroll, and the sunset views here are stunning.
- Devbagh Beach: One of the stunning beaches of Karwar, this beach is known for its golden sands, calm waters, and swishing of alpine and coconut trees. It is a great spot for swimming and enjoying water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving.
- Sadashivgad Fort: A historical fort offering panoramic views of the Kali River, Arabian Sea, and surrounding hills.
#14 Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal – The Cradle of Indian Architecture
Highlights: Ancient Temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Rock Cut Caves
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Hey, history buffs this trio is for you. Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal are essential for those interested in ancient Indian architecture. Located in northern Karnataka, this place stunningly represents the peak of Chalukyan art and architecture.
- Badami Caves: Offering stunning views of Agastya Lake, it is known for its rock-cut cave temples that are dedicated to both Hindu and Jain deities.
- Aihole: Aihole has over 125 stone temples dating back to the 6th century. The Durga Temple and Lad Khan Temple are some of the most prominent ones. This is also considered the "cradle of Indian architecture”.
- Pattadakal: Seamlessly blending northern and southern Indian architectural styles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its sculpted temples, especially the Virupaksha Temple which is the crowning glory of this complex.
#15 Nagarhole National Park – A Wildlife Safari Haven
Highlights: Wildlife Safaris, Tiger Reserve, River Cruises
Best Time to Visit: October to May, with the dry season (March to May) being the best for wildlife sightings.
Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve just like Bandipur National Park. It is a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts as the park is teeming with tigers, elephants, leopards, and over 250 species of birds, and the list of types of fauna is endless.
- Safari: For a thrilling experience the jeep and boat safaris are a must. You can spot a variety of animals in their true habitat making it truly memorable and enthralling.
- Kabini River: The Kabini River flows through the park, and the river cruises offer a unique way to experience the region’s rich and diverse flora and fauna.
- Bird Watching: The park is a paradise for bird lovers as you can spot some of the rare species like the Malabar trogon and Indian pitta here.
With this, we end the list of places. We know we can add more though as Karnataka truly has a lot to offer in terms of enriching experiences. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, a beach bum, or someone looking for spiritual rejuvenation, Karnataka welcomes you with open arms. The varied experiences that this one place has to offer be it the ancient stones of temples, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the rustling of lush forests, and the sight of cascading waterfalls, all these will give you memories for a lifetime.
So, when are you planning your great escapade to uncover the treasures of Karnataka?
