Discover the 12 Best Tourist Attractions in Karnataka

Karnataka, located in south India, offers diverse attractions often overshadowed by nearby regions like Goa, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Travelers exploring Karnataka will find a unique blend of nature, history, beautiful beaches, and spiritual experiences.

Furthermore, GoMowgli introduces a fresh and effortless approach to explore Karnataka with its convenient hop-on-hop-off bus service.

Bangalore

Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, is a thriving hub, predominantly known for its booming IT sector. Consequently, it boasts a vibrant atmosphere filled with young professionals. Although it’s often deemed not essential to visit in India, many visitors appreciate Bangalore’s lush green parks, striking architecture, and numerous temples. However, traffic congestions have increasingly become a notable concern.

Hampi

Hampi is recognized as one of India’s premier historical destinations. This laid-back village served as the last capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, famed for its remarkable ruins contrasted beautifully against a backdrop of colossal boulders. The ruins, originating from the 14th century, span approximately 25 kilometers (10 miles) and include over 500 monuments, providing a remarkable glimpse into its vibrant past.

Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal

To fully appreciate Hampi, consider a detour to the historical sites of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal. The Chalukya empire thrived between the 4th and 8th centuries in these areas, which are rich in monuments, temples, and ruins. Aihole is particularly notable for its distinctive style of architecture, featuring around 125 stone temples. Badami is famed for its exceptional rock-cut cave temples, while Pattadakal houses a remarkable temple complex that should not be missed. However, accommodations in these areas can be quite limited, with a few decent options available in Badami.

Chitradurga Fort

The Chitradurga Fort stands as a lesser-known but stunning site situated northwest of Bangalore, on the journey to Hampi. Built primarily by the Palegar Nayakas during the 15th to 18th centuries, further expansion was conducted under Hyder Ali. Remarkably, this fort now ranks as the largest in Karnataka, covering a rocky landscape adorned with boulders and valleys. Features of particular interest include seven circular walls, multiple gateways, and numerous watchtowers, alongside temples within the fort.

Gokarna

Gokarna is a quaint and scenic town in northern Karnataka, boasting some of India’s finest beaches. It attracts both devout pilgrims and adventurous travelers seeking their bliss. Visitors can experience a piece of what Goa felt like in its prime; however, commercial development is on the rise in this area. Additionally, Gokarna offers opportunities for water sports, including surfing.

Mysore

Mysore is celebrated for its royal heritage, with the prominent attraction being the impressive Mysore Palace. Beyond the palace, visitors can explore numerous intriguing structures, palaces, and temples. Additionally, the local zoo ranks as one of India’s finest. Mysore is renowned for shopping, focusing on sandalwood products and opportunities to study Ashtanga yoga. Plus, the vibrant Mysore Dasara Festival lasts for ten captivating days.

Coorg

The picturesque Kodagu region, commonly known as Coorg, offers breathtaking mountain views and lush coffee plantations in southern Karnataka, and is not far from Bangalore and Mysore. A visit to Coorg highlights include enjoying the region’s captivating scenery and indulging in its famous coffee. The stunning Golden Temple, recognized as one of the top Buddhist monasteries in India, is a must-visit as well.

Nagarhole National Park

Located in Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is renowned as one of the top national parks in India, particularly famous for its nurturing of elephants in their natural surroundings. Observing herds of elephants by the riverside is a common occurrence. The park, with its undisturbed wilderness, features tranquil forests, flowing streams, and serene lakes, and can be best explored through jeep safaris or trekking activities.

Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur, situated within the Western Ghats, attracts numerous domestic tourists for its scenic landscapes and coffee plantations. Adventurous travelers often set out to conquer Mullayanagiri, the state’s highest peak. Various activity providers offer trekking tours departing from Bangalore. This diverse region also features stunning waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, temples, and home-stay options for a memorable visit. For a touch of luxury, consider a stay at The Serai.

Belur

Located approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Chikmagalur along the banks of the Yagachi River, historic Belur is home to exquisite temples dating back to the Hoysala Empire, once the seat of its capital. These temples exemplify the pinnacle of Hoysala architecture, characterized by intricate carvings. The main temple, commissioned to commemorate the Hoysala’s victory over the Cholas, astonishingly took a staggering 103 years to complete. Belur faced assaults from the Mughals in the 14th century, marking the decline of Hoysala power and the capital’s subsequent transfer to Halebidu.

Shravanabelagola

Karnataka is distinguished by five towering Bahubali statues, the most prominent of which is located at Shravanabelagola, nestled in the Hassan district between Bangalore and Mangalore. Standing at an impressive 58 feet, this statue was carved from a solitary block of granite, claiming the title of the largest monolithic stone statue globally. The statue’s position atop a hill entails an invigorating ascent comprising over 600 steps. The ceremonies and rituals observed at the statue’s base provide an engaging cultural experience.

Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar features the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva worldwide (the tallest resides in Nepal), situated along the southern Karnataka coast, approximately 150 kilometers from Mangalore. The site encompasses a temple adorned with an intricately designed 20-story gopura (tower) and an internal lift leading to the apex, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.