India Travel

Karnataka

Karnataka, the eighth largest state in India, is a veritable treasure trove of tourist delights. By virtue of its varied geography and long and rich history, Karnataka popularly known for Carnatic Music through out the World is situated in the southern part of India, and spreads over the Deccan Plateau. Karnataka has been ranked as fourth most popular destination for tourism among states of India. Karnataka has the second highest number of protected monuments in India. Gol Gumbaz at Bijapur, has the second largest pre-modern dome in the world after the Byzantine Hagia Sophia.

The modern Karnataka is best known for its software industry and now biotechnology. The state is also famous for Incense Sticks, Arecanut, Silk, Coffee and Sandal Wood. Karnataka is famous for its waterfalls. Jog falls of Shimoga District is one of the highest waterfalls in Asia. This state has 21 wildlife sanctuaries and five National parks and is home to more than 500 species of birds. Karnataka is a rock climbers paradise. Yana in Uttara Kannada, Fort in Chitradurga, Ramnagara near Bangalore district, Shivagange in Tumkur district and tekal in Kolar district are a rock climbers heaven.

Karnataka has two World heritage sites, at Hampi and Pattadakal, both are in North Karnataka. Karnataka has many beaches at Karwar, Gokarna, Murdeshwara, Surathkal. The great Islamic monuments are present at Bijapur, Bidar, Gulbarga, Raichur and other part of the state.

Weather

The state enjoys three main types of climates. The winter season from January to February is followed by summer season from March to May. The period from October to December forms the post-monsoon season. The period from October to March, covering the post-monsoon and winter seasons, is generally pleasant over the entire State.

 

Tourism

Karnataka's manifold attractions include everything that interests the tourists. The wild game sanctuaries, beach resorts, hill stations, water falls, places of historic and religious importance indicate the variety and richness of the attractions that Karnataka State holds out to the tourists.

Places of Tourist Interest

Charming Cities : The major cities of Karnataka are Bangalore, Mysore, Aihole, Badami, Bandipur, Belur, Bidar, Belgaum, Bijapur, Chikmagalur, Coorg, Hampi & Vijaynagar, Hubli, Dharwad, Shimoga and Srirangapatna.

Beaches : Karnataka has a 320 km long coastline, dotted with numerous beaches. The popular ones include Karwar which is 525 Kms. and from Bangalore and 100 Kms. from Goa. Maravanthe is 525 Kms. from Bangalore and 110 Kms. from Mangalore. Malpe is 392 Kms. from Bangalore and 66 Kms. from Mangalore. Murdeshwara is 386 Kms. from Bangalore and 151 Kms. from Karwar and Mangalore which is 357 Kms. from Bangalore.

Hill Stations : What used to be the favorite summer getaway of Tipu Sultan, Nandi Hills (60 Kms. From Bangalore) is now a popular picnic spot with its awesome fort, sprawling lawns and two ancient temples. Kemman Gundi which is 257 Kms. from Bangalore is one of the beautiful Hill stations, and one of the best Trekking spots amidst lush Green Forests. Other popular hill stations in Karnataka are Mercara, Biligirirangana Hills and Kudremukh.

Adventure/Sports : Rock Climbing, Water Sports, Trekking, River Rafting and Angling are activities in which tourists can indulge in.

Festivals & Events

Pattadakal Dance Festival is held in Pattadakal, Karnataka while Hampi Festival is celebrated at Hampi. Other major festivals are Dussehra, Tula Sankramana, Vairamudi Festival and Buffalo Race.

When to Go

The best time to visit Karnataka is September to February.

Interesting Fact

Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka has highest number of Pubs in Asia.

Home | About India | Suggested Itinerary | Fair & Festivals | Rajasthan Cities | Music & Dance | Indian Cuisine
Testimonials | Query  | Site Map | India Travel Guide | Contact Us | Resources | Terms & Conditions