lakes tourist places in karnataka

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15 Most Beautiful Lakes in Karnataka

Karnataka is dotted with many picturesque lakes…these lakes are not only picturesque but also steeped in ecological diversity. Tourists from all around the country visit these lakes in large numbers. There are numerous such idyllic places in Karnataka but here are the best-rated ones…read on to learn more.

Krishna Raja Sagara Lake

This is one of the most visited places in Mysore, Karnataka. The dam was built by Sir M Visvesvaraya across the river Kaveri which flows in the Mandya region which is close to Mysore. The lake and the dam are very popular due to the Brindavan gardens that were built along with the dam. It is very popular among tourists as well as locals alike. There is also a boating facility that ferries people across and beautiful musical fountains that put up a great show almost every day for the amusement of the people. The location is so beautiful that it has been featured in several movies in the song and dance sequences. The dazzling lights and the several varieties of flowering plants add to the attraction that draws people in thousands to this magnificent place.

Karanji Lake

Located close to the Chamundi betta or hills is the Karanji Lake. The lake provides the most stunning backdrop to the Lalith Mahal Palace. Being enclosed in the zoo area, the lake is a great place for migratory birds to stop by. There are several different species that have made the lake their temporary as well as their permanent home. The lake’s surrounding, which provides great vegetation as well as a rich source of food to the birds, has made this location a great breeding site for this winged species. The lake is easily accessible as the Chamundi hills are well connected. Apart from the lake, the Chamundi hills and the Chamundi temple are the other attractions that one can see close to the Lake.

Kukkarahalli Lake

Another very popular lake in Mysore, located in the heart of the city is the Kukkarahalli Lake. It is a manmade lake commissioned by the then king, Krishnaraja Wodeyar, who belonged to the Mysore dynasty. It was designed and built by Poornaiah the dewan of the time. The lake is a great place to watch birds as there are several types and species that visit it often. One could spot the spot-billed pelicans, night herons, spoonbills, storks, etc here. According to sources, the lake used to be visited by more than 180 different varieties of birds. However, due to the severe urbanization, this lake has seen a downfall in the pristine ecology of the past. The government now has taken several measures to restore the lake to its former glory.

Hebbal Lake

If you go to Bangalore, Hebbal Lake will be one of the most popular places. It is close to the national highway number 7, which is located to the north of Bangalore and the best landmark is the outer ring road which is very popular in Bangalore. It is a manmade lake built by blocking the natural valley system using a dam. It was done so in the year 1537 under the table administration of Kempe Gowda. The lake now supports a diverse ecology system. One can spot birds like spoonbill, pintail, spot-billed duck, pelicans, grey as well as purple herons, etc. here. This diverse variety of birds found here is due to the growth of water Hyacinth and Typha in great abundance. Sadly, the water body is not a clean one due to the heavy inflow of sewage. However, it is still a place to visit just to see the variety of birds that visit this lake here.

Lal Baugh Botanical garden Lake

Located in the Lal Baugh botanical garden, it is one of the most scenic and beautiful of lakes in Bangalore. The entire Lal Baugh was built under the table rule of Hyder Ali. It was completed and further developed by his son, Tippu Sultan. The visitors can enjoy the beauty of the lake in the midst of the trees and flowering plants around. There are animals and birds who are constant visitors to the park. The best part about Lal Baugh is that it is centrally located and very easy to find. It is very close to Shivaji Nagar. A minimal entrance fee is charged. One might require more than a day to explore all the corners of the gardens.

Bellandur Lake

One of the largest lakes in Bangalore is the lake of Bellandur. It takes up nearly 892 acres of land and is considered to be more than 130 years old. The lake is an important one as it is part of the drainage system of Bangalore and drains and provided water to several parts of Bangalore, but the excessive urbanization has led to a downfall in the freshwater making it useless to the communities that depended upon its water. Now the water body is more a place for the drainage system to flow and reach the varthur lake area.

Ulsoor Lake

Another very popular lake in Karnataka is the Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore. It is also popularly called the Halasuru Lake. It is located to the east of the city. The lake derived its name due to the presence of a jackfruit orchard close to the lake. There are several temples which date back to several centuries and a Sikh Gurudwara in close vicinity. This lake too was a very popular source of water for the city; however, the severe urbanization has ruined the pristine ecosystem. The government has taken several steps to undo the damage and the restoration works still continue. The lake has facilities like a children’s play area, boating, fountains, etc.

Sankey Tank

Sankey tank is a great tourist spot. The lake offers activities of excitement as well as relaxation. People who visit here enjoy boating in the area. It is also a major picnic spot and is enjoyed greatly by the children and the elders. The lake takes up nearly 37.1 acres of land and was commissioned by Col. Richard E Sankey after whom it is named. The lake is located to the west of Bangalore, right in the middle of Malleshwaram, Sadashiva Nagar and the Vyalikaval.

Hesaraghatta Lake

Hesaraghatta Lake is a manmade lake, located the northwest of Bangalore. It was made for the purpose of supplying drinking water to the city and was built across the river Akravathy, in the year 1894. A lake is a great place for bird lovers as there have been several species spotted here. The lake is said to have more than 2000 birds of 29 species that often visit the lake. Among them, kingfisher, magpie robins, mynas, bulbuls, etc are most commonly seen here. This has been so in spite of the deterioration that the lake is going through. The government has now stepped forward to restore the lake. There have been even activities like boating and river rafting. Apart from the migratory birds that visit the lake, a government aquarium, a dairy farm, a Nrityagram or a residential type school teaching dance are other attractions around the lake.

Madiwala Lake

One of the biggest lakes in the capital of Karnataka is Madiwala Lake. It is located in the BTM Layout area and has an area of 114.3 hectares. It is among the few lakes that still have clean water. It is a famous tourist spot due to the boating service that the forest department has started. It also is a great place for watching birds, especially during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon times. The most common ones are the Pelicans which can be seen in huge numbers. The lake also has a beautiful park and facilities for the use of children. It has been maintained and managed by the Karnataka State Forest Department which ensures that the facilities are well looked after along with the maintenance of the lake.

Honnamana Kere

Close to the Sulimalthe village is the Honnamana kere. It is the biggest lake seen in the area of Kodagu (Coorg). The lake is worshipped and revered by the people located in the area as it is said that the goddess Honnamma sacrificed her life for the betterment of the people of the locality. Every year, during the gowri habba that is celebrated in a grand way here, the Bagina that is put together by the womenfolk is left in the waters of this lake after finishing the ritual offerings and Pooja. The surroundings of the lake make it a great place for a visit and relaxation. The mountains and small cliffs around and the pleasantly cool weather make it a great tourist destination.

Pampa Sarovar, Hampi

Located to the south of the great Tungabadra river is Pampa Sarovara Lake. It is in the district of Koppala which is close to Hampi. The lake revolves around the legend of a character in Ramayana called Shabari who waits with great faith and devotion for a sight of Ram and on his arrival helps him by suggesting names of Hanuman and Sugreeva, who, in the epic, are the main characters who help to find Ram’s wife Sita. It is also considered to be the place where Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva, sat in meditation and took penance in order to please the Lord. The lake is a beautiful one usually filled with lotuses that looks most stunning when they are in full bloom. There are also a Lakshmi temple and a small Ganesh Shrine in close vicinity. Usually, there is a heavy flow of pilgrims in this area, who visit the lake due to the various legends that revolve around the lake.

Lotus Lake, Bijapur

The Lotus Lake located in Bijapur is famous for its historical Significance. The lake overlooks the fort of Pangarh, which is said to have been built around the 12th century. The main attractions here are the fort and the local tribes. It is said that one can even now observe the local tribes using the traditional methods of fishing using the harpoons. Apart from this, the lake allows for boating along with fishing.

Pilikula Nisargadhama, Mangalore

Pilikula Nisargadhama is a popular picnic spot in Mangalore. It houses the Pilikula Lake which in translation means a Tiger’s lake. It is said that in the olden times one could see several tigers coming to this lake for drinking water. The lake is located within the park, developed by the Mangalore city corporation, and is located close to Vamajoor. It is well connected by road. The Mangalore City Corporation has built a water-based theme park here. Apart from the theme park, one can enjoy boating in the lake, and also it is a great place for a picnic. The boating, the theme park, and the recreational facilities along with the scenic beauty of the lake and the garden within the park make it a great tourist spot.

Unkal Lake, Hubli

Unkal Lake is located in Hubli at a distance of about three kilometers from the main Hubli town. The lake is a beautiful one, with a statue of Swami Vivekananda that adorns the center of the lake. The lake itself is considered to be more than 110 years old. The lake offers facilities for boating and several recreational facilities, especially for the children. This lake is considered to be a major source of water supply to a major portion of the town of Hubli.

The above-mentioned lakes are just a few among the several that can be found in the state of Karnataka. However, these are some of the great tourist destinations due to the various facilities and attractions that they promise. Most of them have either historical significance or legends attached to them.

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Tourist Places in Karnataka

Here are the top 100 places to visit in karnataka in 2024:.

1 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 37 Tourist attractions

Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is a popular coffee producing hill station. It is popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them. It also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people....

Best Time: October to March

2 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 14 Tourist attractions

Located in a valley of rugged red sandstone, surrounding the Agastya Lake, Badami (formerly known as Vatapi) is an archaeological delight owing to its beautifully crafted sandstone cave temples, fortresses and carvings. Located in the Bagalkot district in Karnataka, Badami is part of the UNESCO Worl...

Best Time: October to Apr

3 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 36 Tourist attractions

Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore, currently Mysuru, is one of the most important places in the country regarding ancient reigns. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and ...

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 31 Tourist attractions

Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the state of Karnataka, this place is a historical delight for travellers. Surrounded by 500 ancient monuments, beautiful temples, bustling street markets, bastions, treasury building an...

Karnataka Travel Packages

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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.

5 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 20 Tourist attractions

With its pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes, Gokarna is a Hindu pilgrimage town in Karnataka and a newly found hub for beach lovers and hippies. Situated on the coast of Karwar, every year Gokarna welcomes hordes of tourists from around the world in search of sanctity and relaxat...

6 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 31 Tourist attractions

Udupi is a coastal town in Karnataka, most famous for its vegetarian cuisine and South Indian restaurants all over the country. With beautifully carved ancient temples, laidback beaches and unexplored forests, Udupi is also the place where the educational hub of Manipal is located. Situated 60 ...

7. Chikmagalur

7 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 22 Tourist attractions

Popularly known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’, Chikmagalur is situated in the foothills of the Mullayangiri Range and is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Karnataka. Chikmagalur has a perpetual fragrance of coffee lingering in the air with it plenty of coffee plantations. Famous fo...

8. Jog Falls

8 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

The second-highest plunge waterfall in India, Jog Falls is a major tourist attraction in Karnataka and is the highest waterfall in the state. Second, to the Nohkalikai Falls of Meghalaya, Jog falls drops about a huge 253 m (850 ft. ) in a single fall. However, due to the construc...

Best Time: July to December

9. Murudeshwar

9 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Murudeshwar is home to the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva (123 ft) in the world. With the shimmering Arabian Sea on three sides and the magnificent Western Ghats imposing their presence on this town, it is a favourite picnic spot for the folks from Kerala and Karnataka. The beaches and the adve...

Best Time: October to May

10. Bangalore

10 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 104 Tourist attractions

Having evolved gradually from being the Garden city to the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is India's third-largest city. Bangalore is loved for its pleasant weather, beautiful parks and the many lakes here. Bangalore is renowned for its eateries, street food corners, quirky cafes, coffee ro...

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11. Dandeli

11 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 25 Tourist attractions

Located on the Western Ghats of Uttara Karnataka, Dandeli is bestowed with the lush green forests and lies on the banks of the Kali river. Known for its many fantastic adventure opportunities, Dandeli is a hub for river rafting on river kali . Adventure seekers have many options ...

12. Bandipur National Park

12 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 2 Tourist attractions

Situated in  Karnataka, Bandipur National Park was once the hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Mysore. It was later established as a reserve in 1974 under Project Tiger and these deciduous forests rich in wildlife have become a popular tourist attraction since then. It is 80 km from Mysore enro...

13. Nagarhole National Park

13 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 7 Tourist attractions

Located in the Mysore district of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park boasts of rich wildlife including both flora and fauna. Located near Bandipur National Park, it is packed with the bounty of raw nature in its best form. Bestowed with best of wildlife, forest cover and varied topogr...

14 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 5 Tourist attractions

Located around 245 km from Bangalore, Kabini is primarily known for its handful of luxury resorts around the Kabini River and Nagarhole National Park in the vicinity.  Please note that there are not many budget-friendly accommodations near Kabini River. It is a popular weekend getaway...

15. Kemmanagundi

15 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

A hill station of widespread views and scents of beautiful gardens, Kemmanagundi or KR hills offer a perfect summer retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The area also has trekking, nature walks and picnics. The Royal Horticulture Society of Karnataka is located here an...

Best Time: September to May

16. Thirthahalli

16 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka

Thirthahalli is a quaint little town situated on the banks of river Tunga and is also a taluk headquarters in Shimoga District. Famous for the holy river Tunga and its significance to Indian mythology, Thirthahalli is a popular attraction near Shimoga. Set along the dense forests of the Western Ghat...

17. Kudremukh

17 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 10 Tourist attractions

Popular and named after a mountainside that resembles a horse's face, Kudremukh is famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. A popular hill-station among the Bangalore crowd, Kudremukh is actually a hill range in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Kudremukh Peak is a paradise...

18. Shravanabelagola

18 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Shravanbelagola is an important Jain pilgrimage centre with a 57 m tall monolithic sculpture of Lord Gomateswara called Bahubali statue as its prime attraction. Located 144 km from Bengaluru in Hassan District of Karnataka, the collection of Jain Temples in Shravanbelagola attracts a number of pilgr...

19. Pattadakal

19 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

A treasure trove of Hindu and Jain temples, Pattadakal is part of the Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal complex that got the UNESCO World Heritage title and it is the best representation of Chalukyan Architecture. Resting on the banks of River Malaprabha, it boasts of a rich legacy that dates back to th...

20. Shimoga (Shivamogga)

20 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 37 Tourist attractions

With nature in its full bloom, the town of Shimoga has been home to several great dynasties and kingdoms. Packed with several marvels of nature in the form of picturesque landscape, gorgeous waterfalls, mystical temples and lush green surroundings, its raw beauty will leave you absolutely enchanted....

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21. Devbagh

21 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 11 Tourist attractions

Pristine blue water, picture perfect backdrop of beautiful mountains and lush green belt of casuarinas trees blend together perfectly to give you Devbagh. It is an amazing exotic island lying along the coastline of Arabian sea about 2 kms from the southern part of Goa. With splendid weather througho...

22. Nandi Hills

22 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 12 Tourist attractions

Located around 60 kilometres away from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is one such tourist spot that has gradually been discovered by visitors over the years and has now become a well-known weekend getaway.

Best Time: October to June

23 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 22 Tourist attractions

Karwar is a port city with scenic beaches surrounded by casuarinas trees along the Arabian sea coastline. Located 15kms away from Goa, on the west coast of Indian Peninsula, It is both a natural harbour as well as a town with a history that goes back to the 15th century.

Best Time: November to April

24. Halebidu

24 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

Halebid (or Halebidu) is a city located in the Hassan district of Karnataka state. Formerly known as Dwarasamudra, Halebid is a city with adorned with a beautiful collection of temples, shrines and sculptures. It is also known as the Gem of Indian architecture owing to its sterling Hoysala architect...

25. Bijapur

25 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 14 Tourist attractions

Famous for the Gol Gumbaj and Ibrahim Rauza which is considered to be the Taj Mahal of the Deccan, Bijapur is a tourist destination in Karnataka that takes its visitors back in time through its glorious ancient structures. Bijapur is an important commercial district in the state of Karnata...

26. Shivagange

26 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 2 Tourist attractions

Shivagange, a hillock situated 56 km from Bangalore, is a combination of temples and scenic beauty that makes it both a pilgrimage as well as an adventure spot. From a distance, the hillock looks like a 'Shiva Linga', with a spring flowing nearby that's locally called Ganga, thereby naming it Shivag...

27. Maravanthe

27 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 10 Tourist attractions

Maravanthe is a getaway which can be best described as nature's basket full of mesmerizing picturesque views. A beautiful beach town with white sand spread miles and miles along the coast fetches the beach a nickname of a Virgin Beach.

28. Mangalore

28 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 28 Tourist attractions

Located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the port city of Mangalore or Mangaluru is known for its swaying coconut palms, beautiful beaches and temple architecture. It is also an important industrial, commercial, educational and healthcare hub of the state of Karnataka.

29. Srirangapatna

29 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 16 Tourist attractions

Srirangapatna is a small island town in the Cauvery river in Karnataka. Located 18 kms from Mysore, the town is an architectural masterpiece of Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles evident in its monuments. One of the most important Vaishnavite centres of pilgrimage- the Ranganathaswamy tem...

Best Time: July to March

30. Savandurga

30 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 3 Tourist attractions

Situated 60 kms to the west of Bangalore, Savandurga, considered to be one of the largest single rock formations in the whole of Asia. It comprises of two hills, Billigudda (white hill) and Karigudda (black hill) and has a temple situated at the foothill and a pond nearby. Most trekkers choose Billi...

Best Time: November to May

31. Chikkaballapur

31 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

Chikballapura town is located about 57km from Bangalore, Karnataka and is an important port link in North Bangalore area and also a major educational hub. Nandi Hills, Bhoga Nandeehwara, Vivekananda Waterfalls and Yoga Nandesshwara temples are some of the famous places here providing oppor...

32. Honnemaradu

32 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 10 Tourist attractions

Honnemaradu is a small cosy village, by the Honnemaradu Reservoir. The site is set in the middle of a valley and a weekend getaway to this place is nothing less than an adventure camp. The little village has very few people, and the only attraction is the water sports done at the Honnemaradu la...

Best Time: October to December, March to Apr

33. Anthargange

33 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 2 Tourist attractions

Anthargange is situated in the Kolar district of Karnataka in the Shathashrunga range, about 70 km from Bangalore. The mountains at an altitude of 1712 meters from sea level with rocky boulders, small caves and dense plantations are one of the best getaways for trekking, rock climbing and cave explo...

34. Bheemeshwari

34 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Bheemeshwari, a small town in Karnataka's Mandya district, is popular as a paradise for fishing enthusiasts as it is home to the Mahseer fishes - one of the finest game fish in the world. This town is tranquil and is the perfect getaway for a short trip from Bangalore. Due to its prox...

35 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 6 Tourist attractions

Dubare is an untamed beauty, popular for its elephant training camp where visitors can watch, learn about and get involved in a number of activities with the elephants creating a unique, enjoyable and memorable experience. It has a hilly terrain with backwaters which are also the host of a number of...

36. Dharmasthala

36 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 8 Tourist attractions

Popularly known as the Land of Charity, Dharmasthala is a beautiful temple town with a blend of heritage, culture and religion. Situated on the banks of Nethravathi river in Karnataka, it's popularly known as a pilgrim site for the Shaiva, Vaishnava and Jaina communities.

37. Kundapura

37 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 12 Tourist attractions

Culturally rich, a treasure trove of mesmerizing nature and environ of spirituality define this temple town best. It is known for its unique dialect in Kannada and amazing cuisine. Also a destination for nature buffs along with activities like hiking, trekking, rock climbing and boating, that can ma...

38. BR Hills

38 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 5 Tourist attractions

Around 175 kilometres away from Bangalore, BR Hills, also known as Billigiriranga Hills, is a hill range and one of the most popular road trips from Bangalore. BR hills is an abode to Billigiri Rangaaswamy Temple and BRT Wildlife sanctuary. This range of hills is a deific conjuncture for the Eastern...

Best Time: April to October

39. Sringeri

39 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 9 Tourist attractions

Commonly known as Sri Kshetra Shringeri, Sringeri is a famed hill town nestled in the Chikkamagaluru District of Karnataka. It is a pilgrimage centre, mainly known for the Sharada Peetham which was built by the great Adi Shankara in the 9th century. According to experts, Adi Shankaracharya stay...

40. Shivanasamudra Falls

40 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 3 Tourist attractions

Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is primarily a hydropower project location but has gotten massive attention for its stunning waterfalls: Gaganachukki and Barachukki. Travellers enjoy the view of waterfalls from the benches, and there are steps that take visitors to many le...

Best Time: August to February

41 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 23 Tourist attractions

Home to over 125 beautiful Chalukyan temples and monuments, Aihole is a historical site in Bagalkot, Karnataka. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and is surrounded by marvellous sandstone hills and villages on the banks of the Malaprabha River. It was fo...

42 out of 100 Places to visit in Karnataka 11 Tourist attractions

A city rich in culture and heritage, Bidar is a historical city in Karnataka. Once considered to be the most flourishing cities in South India, Bidar is packed with great architectural marvels and ancient structures that add on to its charm. Being once the centre of power of many great kin...

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15 Of The Best Lakes In Bangalore To Visit

Have you checked out some of these incredible lakes in Bangalore yet?

Bangalore’s magnificent lakes, both natural and man-made, are the city’s lifelines. They come as a much-needed respite for residents when they need some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Spread across different areas of the city, each of the lakes in Bangalore has something unique to offer to all its visitors. Their stunning landscapes guarantee gorgeous views and tranquil surroundings. Since Bangalore does not have any rivers flowing through it, the lakes, several of them man-made from many centuries ago, have been lifelines for the people. Lakes are also an extremely essential part of any landscape. Proper lake function helps ease the impact of floods by storing water and releasing it during shortages. Lakes are also integral in replenishing groundwater and helping boost the economy by promoting tourism.

Lakes in Bangalore make for the perfect weekend getaway where you can spend time with your friends and family doing a bunch of fun activities! Right from boating to birdwatching, there is so much you can do at the lakes of Bangalore. Bangalore is fondly called ‘The City Of Lakes’ because of the variety of lakes it has. Most of the lakes are well-maintained and see a lot of visitors throughout the year. We’ve listed out some of the best lakes in Bangalore that you can visit and leave all your worries behind!

Also Read: How Citizen Initiatives Have Revolutionized Lake Conservation In Bengaluru And Why It’s Important

15 Of The Best Lakes In Bangalore You Can Explore

1. madiwala lake.

Madiwala Lake is one of the largest lakes in Banglore. The lake is spread over a sprawling area of 114 hectares. This picturesque lake is maintained by the Karnataka State Forest Department and is an absolute delight to visit. Madiwala Lake is a great place to engage in photography, take a leisurely stroll around the lake or simply sit down and observe the beautiful birds all around. Families can take their children to Madiwala Lake where there is lots to do to keep them entertained. 

Location: Bannerghatta Main Road, BTM 2nd stage, Bangalore

Timings: 05.00 AM to 09.30 PM, all days.

Boating: 10.00 AM to 06.30 PM, all days.

Fees: INR 5 per person (for Adults) & INR 2 per kid (for Kids).

2. Ulsoor Lake

This Lake is perhaps Bangalore’s most famous lake known for its tranquillity and is also one of the biggest lakes in the city. Ulsoor Lake has beautiful islands in the middle of the vast water body, is surrounded by dense trees and is one of the oldest lakes in the city. You can choose to go boating on the Ulsoor Lake or walk the path that surrounds the lake which is an incredibly peaceful experience. It has a designated children’s play area as well. What’s perfect about Ulsoor Lake is that it’s close to the popular places in Bangalore. This lake is only a stone’s throw away from famous shopping destinations like Church Street and Commercial Street. Once you’re done lounging by the Ulsoor Lake you can always go shopping right after!

Location: Near MG Road, Bangalore

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Wednesday closed)

Boating: NA

3. Hebbal Lake

One of the most popular lakes, Hebbal Lake was commissioned in 1537 by Kempe Gowda and is spread across 150 acres. The lake is the ideal place for anyone who enjoys observing different species of migratory birds like purple moorhens, Brahminy kites, darters, cormorants, grey herons, pond herons and much more. Hebbal Lake is an exceptional place to witness magnificent sunrises and sunsets. This lake is a seasonal lake that dries up during the summer but comes to life in the monsoon when it is surrounded by lush greenery all around. Hebbal Lake is also one of the largest in the city.

Location: 13 km away from the Kempe Gowda Bus Stand, Bangalore

Timings: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, any day

Fees: INR 10 per person

4. Lalbagh Lake

Close to the city centre, the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden is renowned for its stunning flora. Nestled inside it is the quaint Lal Bagh Lake that is absolutely unmissable. This lake and the surrounding areas are one of the most picturesque places in Bangalore. The Lalbagh Botanical Gardens was established in the year 1760 by Hyder Ali. Rumour has it that the lake was one of the main reasons for Hyder Ali to set up the park. The lake is a paradise for photographers and a great place to soak in nature. There are lush green trees and colourful flowers for as far as the eye can see. The lake is spread across an area of about 40 acres and has a maximum depth of 3.5 metres. 

Location: Mavalli, Bangalore

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day (for the public), from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM (for pedestrians).

Entry Fees: INR 10 per person and free for children below 12 years of age.

Flower Shows’ Fees: INR 40 per person.

5. Kaikondrahalli Lake

As we know, some of the lakes in Bangalore have faced severe damage and degradation. Fortunately, there have been several cases of revival and conservation of such lakes in Bangalore. The Kaikondrahalli Lake is one of the lakes that has transformed from a dump yard into a beautiful lake thanks to the administrative bodies. This lake is a biodiverse ecosystem in itself and houses reptiles, amphibians and birds.

The lake is bordered by a range of trees and in the heart of the lake lies a small island. There are jogging and cycling tracks around the lake along with play areas and parks. The bird population at the lake is remarkable – each month brings its own set of migratory birds and makes it an excellent place for bird watching. While it is a breathtaking location to visit throughout the year, this lake is particularly beautiful to witness during the month of July. 

Location: Kaikondrahalli Lake Trail, Harlur

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: Closes at 6:30 PM

6. Hesaraghatta Lake

This freshwater lake was created in the year 1894 across the Arkavathy River to meet the city’s drinking water needs. Today it has grown to accommodate diverse birdlife and flora. Birds like harries, quails, flycatchers and robins frequent this lake which is why it is extremely popular among photographers and for bird watching. The best time to visit this lake is during the monsoon or after it. 

Location: Hesaraghatta

7. Agara Lake

Agara Lake is a natural lake that is a favourite among morning walkers and joggers. Across its 98 acres, there are scenic views of the entire lake along with a vibrant avian population. Agara Lake is the ideal location for a workout session in the morning as you take in the panoramic landscape all around. Agara Lake also features a statue named Children-Globe-Rooster.

Location: Agara Village, 1st Sector, HSR Layout (just off the outer ring road)

Timings: 5:30 AM to 11 AM, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM

Also Read: Take A Trip To These 8 Mesmerizing Lake Islands Around The World!

8. Hennur Lake

Hennur Lake and Biodiversity Park are akin to a small, quaint forest right in the midst of Bangalore. With a walking track of 1.2 km and a children’s play area, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a wonderful place to spend a leisurely evening with your family. There is also a garden you can stroll through that is home to medicinal plants and nearly 1800 local trees.

Location: Service Rd, 5th Block, Nagawara

Timings: 5:30 AM to 9 AM, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM

9. Rachenahalli Lake

Rachenahalli Lake has had quite a metamorphosis in the last couple of years. After being neglected for years, it was revived in 2019 thanks to the efforts of a citizen’s group. Several bird species like the Brahminy kite, spot-billed pelican and intermediate egret have made the lake their home, making it a great place for bird watching. The tracks around the lake along with gorgeous views make it a great place to watch the sunset during dusk or simply take a walk in the evening. 

Location: Thanisandra

Timings: 5:30 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on all days of the week.

10. Allalasandra Lake

Allalasandra Lake is in the satellite town of Yelahanka and is a favourite among morning walkers around the area. The large water body welcomes many species of birds like cranes, swans, pigeons, and a few other migratory birds. Facilities include an open-air gym and a children’s park adjoining the lake. Since Yelahanka is away from Bangalore City, it’s one of the lesser-explored lakes of Bangalore, which is what makes it all the more interesting. 

Location: Yelahanka

Timings: Sunrise – Sunset

11. Nagavara Lake

Covering an area of 44 hectares, Nagavara Lake is located on the Outer Ring Road and is known for its enthralling landscape. Surrounding it are Lumbini Gardens and a Leisure Park, places you can visit to unwind and enjoy nature. It has been developed by the lake authority of India.

Location: Nagavara, Hebbal, Bangalore

Timing: 6 AM – 7 PM

Fees: Free entry

12. Puttenahalli Lake

Puttenahalli Lake covers 13 acres of area and the main sources of water for this lake are water and rain. This lake is a haven for nature lovers and is one of the places to witness 80 species of birds including purple heron, Indian pond heron, common kingfisher, and spot-billed duck. Puttenahalli Lake was a pristine lake for a long time in Bangalore until pollution and garbage caused its damage much like several other lakes in the city. However, a continued effort has been made by citizens to revive the lake and it is now a favourite among citizens of the area. There’s another lake by the same name in Yelahanka.

Location: Arekere MICO Layout Main Rd, Puttenahalli, JP Nagar 7th Phase, near MLR Convention Hall, Bangalore, Karnataka 560076

Visit Timing: NA

13. Kengeri Lake

Kengeri Lake is along Mysore Road and has been rejuvenated by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation. There are mini green islands on the lake making it ideal to go boating with your friends and family. The lake is spread over 25 acres and local authorities are working on laying out a walking path, kids’ play zone, recreational area, islet and much more. 

Location: Kengeri Satellite Town

Entry Fee:  Free Entry

Timings: 24×7; every day

14. Yediyur Lake

Yediyur Lake is one of the oldest lakes in Bangalore and its origins date back to the Hoysala period. It has a convenient walkway built for joggers and walkers and the surrounding park allows you to go on a picnic and take boat rides. A major plus is that there is no entry fee at Yediyur Lake.

Location: Jaynagar

15. Varthur Lake

This lake is man-made and was built around 100 years ago to maintain the ecological balance of the city’s natural system and to support the agricultural needs of farmers in the area. Over time, Varthur Lake has gathered a lot of toxic waste over the years and is also infamous for froth. Many plans are underway to restore the lake to its past glory but there is still a lot to be done. It is still appreciated for the beautiful views it offers of the sunset and the sunrise and is frequented by nature lovers and photographers.

Location: Varthur Kere, Varthur, Bangalore

Also Read: Visit These 6 Stunning Pink Lakes Around The World

The Lakes In Bangalore Continue To Attract Citizens And Tourists

All of the lakes in Bangalore are an important reminder to all of us, teaching us the importance of sustainability and how industrialisation can harm water bodies. Many lakes in Bangalore have been restored over the years because of all the damage caused by human activity. As we go forward, citizens and tourists need to be more mindful when they visit lakes and ensure they don’t litter and keep their surroundings clean. Protecting the biodiversity around the lake should be just as important to citizens as it is to the government authorities.

The total number of lakes in Bangalore stands at 189 – 55 under Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), 123 under Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), six under Lake Development Authority (LDA) and five under the Karnataka forest department.

The Shanthi Sagara Lake located in Sulekere of Channagiri taluk Davanagere District is the longest lake in Karnataka.

Yes, BTM lake is open.

Yes, Kaikondrahalli Lake is open.

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

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The 16 best lakes to visit in Bengaluru

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1 Ulsoor Lake

2 Madiwala Lake

3 Hebbal Lake

4 agara lake, 5 sankey tank.

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6 Kaikondrahalli Lake

7 lalbagh lake, 8 hesaraghatta lake, 9 kengeri lake, 10 nagavara lake, 11 hennuru kere bio-diversity park, 12 rachenahalli lake, 13 allalasandra lake, 14 puttenahalli lake, 15 yediyur lake.

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16 Bellandur Lake

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Must See Tourist Places in Karnataka

Welcome to the heart of the Deccan Plateau, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a tapestry of unparalleled experiences.

Karnataka, a land of diverse landscapes and rich heritage, beckons travelers with many must-see tourist places in Karnataka.

In this extensive guide, we will embark on a virtual tour spanning the length and breadth of Karnataka, highlighting the unique attractions that make this state a traveler’s paradise.

Our odyssey begins in Bangalore, the dynamic capital city often called the Silicon Valley of India.

Here, modern skyscrapers stand tall, sharing the skyline with age-old trees, and tech-savvy professionals coexist with artists embracing tradition. As the hub of innovation and a melting pot of diverse cultures, Bangalore sets the stage for exploring Karnataka’s multifaceted charm.

Each chapter will unfold a new facet of Karnataka’s tourism, offering a comprehensive guide to the must-see places that make this state a traveler’s delight.

So, join us in this virtual exploration as we navigate through the dynamic landscapes, historical legacies, and cultural riches that define Karnataka’s allure.

“Tourist Places in Karnataka” is not just a phrase; it’s an invitation to embark on a journey through time and tranquility, discovering the myriad wonders that await in this vibrant Indian state.

1.  Bangalore: The Silicon Valley with a Cultural Twist

Our journey begins in Bangalore, the bustling capital known for its vibrant I.T. industry and dynamic culture.

Discover the mix of modernity and practice as we explore iconic landmarks like Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Vidhana Soudha, and the historic Bangalore Palace.

Dive into the city’s thriving food scene and witness the lively ambiance of M.G. Road and Brigade Road.

Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Bangalore, often called the “Silicon Valley of India,” is a city that effortlessly blends the dynamism of a tech hub with a rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

As we embark on exploring Bangalore, the first chapter in our journey through the tourist places in Karnataka, we unravel the layers of this metropolis, discovering its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and the perfect harmony between tradition and modernity.

Bangalore, the technological powerhouse, is a testament to India’s prowess in the I.T. industry.

The city’s skyline is adorned with futuristic buildings housing multinational corporations, earning it the moniker “Silicon Valley.”

Companies like Infosys, Wipro, and tech startups have found a home in this bustling metropolis, contributing to its dynamic economic landscape.

Yet, beyond the glass facades and corporate corridors, Bangalore has much more to offer.

The city doesn’t just thrive on technology but also pulsates with a cultural heartbeat that resonates through every street and neighborhood.

Our journey begins with the enchanting Lalbagh Botanical Garden, an oasis of greenery in the city’s heart.

This botanical marvel spans over 240 acres, featuring a diverse collection of plants, serene lakes, and exquisite flower beds.

Lalbagh is not merely a garden; it’s a haven where tech professionals find solace amidst bustling work schedules and tourists immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

As we move through the city, Vidhana Soudha, the seat of Karnataka’s legislative assembly, is a majestic symbol of architectural grandeur.

This monumental tower, constructed in the neo-Dravidian style, reflects the state’s cultural heritage and administrative prowess.

It is a visual spectacle during the evenings when illuminated, casting a spellbinding aura on all who behold it.

Venturing into the heart of Bangalore, the regal Bangalore Palace awaits. The Windsor Castle inspired this architectural gem in England and reflects the luxury of the bygone era.

With its Tudor-style architecture, sprawling grounds, and ornate interiors, the palace transports visitors to a time when Bangalore was a princely state steeped in regal splendor.

Our cultural exploration takes us to the lively streets of M.G. Road and Brigade Road, the beating heart of Bangalore’s commercial and cultural district.

Here, traditional and modern Bangalore fusion is most palpable, as street vendors share space with high-end boutiques, and historic landmarks stand next to trendy cafes.

In this first chapter of our Karnataka tour, Bangalore unfolds as a city where the worlds of technology and culture converge seamlessly.

It’s a destination for tech enthusiasts and a haven for those seeking a cultural twist amid the digital hustle.

The keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” resonates in Bangalore’s diverse offerings, inviting visitors to explore the city’s technological achievements and cultural treasures.

As we progress in our journey, the richness of tourist places in Karnataka is bound to unfold further, promising a tapestry of experiences that transcend expectations.

2. Mysuru: Of Palaces, Gardens, and Royalty

Traveling southwest, we reach the regal city of Mysuru, home to the magnificent Mysuru Palace, a testament to the luxury of the Wadiyars.

Stroll through the lush Brindavan Gardens and explore the intricacies of the Chamundi Hills. Mysuru’s rich cultural heritage is unveiled in its bustling markets and the vibrant Dasara Festival, a spectacle of grandeur.

As our exploration of enchanting tourist places in Karnataka continues, we find ourselves drawn to the regal city of Mysuru, where history unfolds like a royal tapestry, adorned with palaces, sprawling gardens, and the echoes of an era steeped in grandeur.

Mysuru, often referred to as the cultural capital of Karnataka, stands as a testament to the luxury of the Wadiyars, inviting us to immerse ourselves in a world where palaces and gardens whisper tales of royalty.

Our journey through Mysuru commences with the crown jewel of the city – the Mysuru Palace.

This architectural masterpiece, a blend of Indo-Saracenic style with a hint of Dravidian, reflects the grandeur of a bygone era.

The palace’s intricately carved arches, vibrant stained glass windows, and ornate interiors transport visitors to a time when the Wadiyars held sway over the region.

As we traverse the palace halls adorned with artifacts, royal portraits, and regal memorabilia, the essence of Mysuru’s royal heritage comes alive.

The Durbar Hall, with its opulent ceiling and Belgian crystal chandeliers, is a witness to the grand ceremonies that once unfolded within its walls.

Our exploration of Mysuru extends to the enchanting Brindavan Gardens, a symphony of nature and design adjacent to the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam.

This meticulously manicured garden, designed by Sir Mirza Ismail, is a floral paradise with musical fountains and vibrant displays of light during the evenings.

As the sun sets and the gardens are illuminated, visitors witness a breathtaking spectacle, with the dancing fountains performing in harmony with music and lights.

Brindavan Gardens epitomizes the blending of horticultural aesthetics with the allure of technology, offering a serene escape for those seeking solace amidst nature’s beauty.

Our journey takes a spiritual turn as we ascend the Chamundi Hills, home to the sacred Chamundeshwari Temple.

The climb, marked by a thousand steps, is a pilgrimage for devotees and a trek for adventure seekers.

The temple’s ornate architecture and panoramic views of Mysuru from the hilltop make this ascent a holistic experience that resonates with spirituality and natural beauty.

Mysuru’s cultural richness is magnificently showcased during the Dasara Festival, a celebration reverberating grandeur and festivities.

The city dons a festive avatar as processions, cultural performances, and the grand Dasara parade captivate locals and tourists alike.

The illuminated Mysuru Palace becomes the focal point of the celebrations, embodying the spirit of Karnataka’s cultural heritage.

Exploring Mysuru is only complete with a visit to its bustling markets. Devaraja Market, with its colorful array of spices, silk, and sandalwood products, offers a sensory delight that captures the essence of local life. Here, the vibrancy of Mysuru’s everyday existence unfolds, connecting the city’s regal past and contemporary vitality.

3. Hampi: A Journey through Ruins and Temples

Venturing into the northern realms of Karnataka, we discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi. This archaeological wonder is adorned with ancient ruins, majestic temples, and a landscape that transports visitors to a bygone era.

Explore the Virupaksha Temple, witness the iconic stone chariot, and immerse yourself in the historical saga of the Vijayanagara Empire. As our odyssey through captivating tourist places in Karnataka unfolds, the trail leads us to Hampi’s ancient ruins and temples.

Nestled on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Hampi stands as a testament to the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire. In this chapter, we embark on a journey through the remnants of a bygone era, where the whispers of history echo through the captivating landscape.

Hampi, known as a World Heritage Site, is an open-air museum that transports visitors to the 14th century, when it served as the vibrant capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The ruins, spread across a vast expanse, tell tales of a once-thriving city adorned with grand temples, majestic palaces, and bustling marketplaces.

Our exploration begins at the Virupaksha Temple, the living heart of Hampi and one of the few functioning temples amidst the ruins. The towering gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and sacred sanctums stand as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara era.

We gaze at the iconic stone chariot in the Vitthala Temple as we traverse the temple complexes. This chariot, intricately carved from a single block of granite, symbolizes the architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara artisans. It stands as a testament to the empire’s cultural and artistic achievements, offering a glimpse into the past grandeur of Hampi.

For a panoramic view of Hampi’s surreal landscape, we ascend Hemakuta Hill. The hill is dotted with ancient temples, each revealing a different facet of the Vijayanagara architectural style.

As the sun sets over the boulder-strewn terrain, the play of light and shadows accentuates the dramatic contours, creating a visual spectacle that lingers in the memory.

While Hampi is known for its prominent landmarks, hidden gems like the Achyutaraya Temple offer a more secluded exploration. This temple is adorned with mesmerizing carvings and provides an intimate connection with the historical charm of Hampi.

Our journey meanders through the Hampi Bazaar, once a bustling marketplace that catered to traders from around the world. The remnants of this market and the architectural elegance of the Lotus Mahal showcase the city’s fusion of commerce and culture during its zenith.

As we conclude this chapter, Hampi remains an archaeological marvel that beckons history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and curious wanderers to uncover the mysteries embedded in its time-worn stones.

Our journey through tourist places in Karnataka continues, promising more revelations and awe-inspiring experiences as we traverse this cultural tapestry.

4. Gokarna: Where Beaches Meet Spirituality

Our exploration takes us westward to the coastal town of Gokarna, where pristine beaches and spiritual vibes converge. Unwind on the sandy shores of Om Beach, trek to the secluded Half Moon Beach, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of Mahabaleshwar Temple. 

As we weave through the diverse fabric of tourist places in Karnataka, our journey brings us to the enchanting coastal town of Gokarna. Nestled between the azure Arabian Sea and the lush Western Ghats, Gokarna unveils a tapestry where pristine beaches meet the spiritual vibrations of ancient temples.

This chapter delves into the harmonious blend of sun, sand, and spirituality that defines Gokarna’s unique allure. Gokarna’s claim to fame is the serene Om Beach, named for its shape, similar to the sacred symbol ‘Om.’

The gentle waves of the Arabian Sea caress the shores, creating a tranquil aura that invites guests to unwind and connect with the natural beauty surrounding them. Whether it’s a stroll along the shoreline or a yoga session at sunrise, Om Beach provides a sanctuary for those seeking solace in the lap of nature.

Venturing along the coastline, we discover the secluded paradise of Half Moon Beach. Accessible by boat or a trek through the rocky terrain, this crescent-shaped haven offers a more intimate setting for travelers looking to escape the crowds.

The pristine sands, swaying palms, and the sound of the waves create an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and introspection. Gokarna’s spiritual essence is embodied in the sacred Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

This ancient temple, situated at the confluence of the Aghanashini River and the Arabian Sea, holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to the temple’s serene atmosphere, where the rhythmic chants of prayers blend with the soothing sounds of the sea.

Backpackers and beach lovers converge here to experience the unhurried pace of life, surrounded by the panoramic beauty of the Arabian Sea. The beachside shacks offer a taste of local cuisine, making it an ideal spot to savor fresh seafood while enjoying the sunset.

Gokarna’s allure is its unique ability to blend spirituality with leisure seamlessly. While the Mahabaleshwar Temple resonates with ancient rituals and devotion, the nearby beaches beckon those seeking a more relaxed and carefree experience.

The juxtaposition of the sacred and the serene creates a magnetic pull that attracts a diverse array of travelers, from backpackers to pilgrims. The town of Gokarna, away from the shoreline, exudes a traditional charm with its narrow streets, vibrant markets, and ancient structures.

Visitors can explore the local culture, shop for souvenirs, and engage with the friendly locals who contribute to the town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.

5. Coorg: The Scotland of India

Heading towards the lush Western Ghats, we arrive in Coorg, often referred to as the Scotland of India. Marvel at the expansive coffee plantations, witness the grandeur of Abbey Falls and embark on a trek to the scenic Tadiandamol Peak. Coorg’s enchanting landscapes and pleasant climate make it a haven for nature lovers.

As our journey through diverse tourist places in Karnataka unfolds, the trail leads us to the picturesque landscapes of Coorg, often hailed as the “Scotland of India.” Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Coorg captivates with its lush greenery, mist-covered hills, and a serene atmosphere that takes guests to a domain of wild peach and tranquility.

These plantations contribute to India’s coffee production and create a canvas of vibrant hues punctuated by the deep green of the coffee bushes. Visitors are treated to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, creating a sensory experience that defines the essence of Coorg.

Our journey into the lush landscapes of Coorg brings us to Abbey Falls, a captivating cascade nestled amidst verdant surroundings. The gushing waters of the falls create a mesmerizing spectacle as they plunge into a pool below, surrounded by dense foliage.

The mist rising from the falls adds a touch of mystique, creating an ethereal atmosphere that invites visitors to witness nature’s grandeur.

For those seeking an adventure, Tadiandamol Peak beckons with its promise of panoramic views and trekking delights. Standing as the highest peak in Coorg, the trek to Tadiandamol offers a physical challenge and a chance to witness the stunning looks of Coorg from a lofty vantage point.

The lush valleys, dense forests, and distant hills unfold like a painter’s masterpiece, creating a sense of serenity at the summit. Coorg’s charm extends beyond its landscapes to its unique experiences, such as the Dubare Elephant Camp.

From bathing elephants in the river to observing their daily activities, the camp offers an intimate encounter with these majestic creatures, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Coorg surprises with its cultural diversity, exemplified by the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe.

Home to thousands of monks and nuns, this Tibetan Buddhist monastery is a tranquil retreat adorned with vibrant murals and ornate decorations. The sound of chanting and the sight of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze create an atmosphere of serenity, transporting visitors to the highlands of Tibet within the heart of Coorg.

As the day draws close, Raja’s Seat unfolds as a perfect vantage point to witness the sunset over the Coorg hills. This scenic garden was once the favorite spot of Coorg’s kings, who would marvel at the panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Today, visitors can relax amidst the well-maintained gardens, enjoying the breathtaking hues as the sun dips below the horizon.

6. Badami: A Canvas of Cave Temples

Our journey takes an artistic turn as we explore the cave temples of Badami. These ancient temples showcase exquisite rock-cut architecture and intricate sculptures. The Badami Cave Temples and the nearby Aihole and Pattadakal form a trilogy of archaeological marvels narrating the tales of Chalukyan craftsmanship.

Our exploration through the kaleidoscopic landscapes of Karnataka leads us to the historic town of Badami, a mesmerizing canvas adorned with cave temples that narrate the tales of an ancient civilization. Carved into the rust-red sandstone cliffs, the cave temples of Badami transport visitors to a bygone era, where art, architecture, and spirituality converged in perfect harmony.

The heartbeat of Badami resonates within its rock-cut cave temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises four primary caves dedicated to Hindu deities. Carved between the 6th and 8th centuries by the Chalukya dynasty, each cave tells a unique story through intricate sculptures, exquisite reliefs, and grandeur that withstand the test of time.

Cave 1, dedicated to Lord Shiva, welcomes visitors with a colossal sculpture of Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. The cave’s interior reveals intricate carvings depicting mythological narratives and celestial beings. As sunlight filters through the entrance, it illuminates the sanctum, creating a divine ambiance.

Cave 2, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, unfolds with a colossal depiction of Trivikrama, an incarnation of Vishnu. The detailed carvings on the walls narrate epic episodes, showcasing the Chalukyan artisans’s artistic finesse. The cave is a testament to the religious tolerance of the era, as it houses Hindu and Jain temples.

Cave 3, the largest of the four, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The intricately carved panels narrate the tales of Lord Krishna, and the massive pillars and sculptures showcase the architectural grandeur of the Chalukyan dynasty. The ceiling of the veranda displays an exceptional lotus motif, adding to the cave’s aesthetic allure.

Cave 4, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, represents the Jain philosophy through its detailed sculptures. The depiction of Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, is a testament to the inclusive nature of art in Badami.

Nestled along the Agastya Lake, the Bhutanatha Temple is a picturesque testimony to the architectural brilliance of Badami. This twin-shrine temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an exquisite example of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles. The temple’s reflection in the lake’s serene waters adds to its charm, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

The fort, originally built by Tipu Sultan, bears witness to the region’s historical transitions. Exploring the fort not only unveils the military architecture of the past but also provides a vantage point to admire the sprawling town of Badami.

Our journey through Badami extends to the Archaeological Museum, where artifacts excavated from the cave temples and surrounding areas find a home. The museum offers a curated glimpse into the region’s history, showcasing sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts that provide insights into the cultural richness of Badami.

7. Udupi: Of Temples, Beaches, and Cuisine

Nestled along the Arabian Sea, Udupi unveils a world of temples, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine. Visit the renowned Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, relax on the beaches of Malpe, and savor the authentic Udupi cuisine known for its delicious vegetarian fare. Udupi offers a delightful blend of spirituality, relaxation, and gastronomic delights.

Our journey through Karnataka’s diverse tapestry brings us to the coastal town of Udupi. In this cultural haven, ancient temples, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine converge to create a multifaceted experience. Udupi, nestled along the Arabian Sea, is a destination that invites travelers to explore its spiritual, natural, and gastronomic treasures.

The heartbeat of Udupi resonates within the sacred precincts of the Sri Krishna Temple. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this historic temple is a center of pilgrimage and devotion. The unique feature of the temple is the ‘Kanakana Kindi,’ a small window through which the idol of Lord Krishna can be seen.

The daily ‘Anna Prasada’ served at the temple is a tradition that has been followed for centuries, symbolizing the spirit of selfless service and community. As we traverse the cultural landscape of Udupi, the Chandramouleshwara Temple stands as an architectural marvel that dates back to the Vijayanagara era.

The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcases intricate carvings and sculptures narrating Hindu mythology tales. The sanctum, adorned with a Shiva Linga, exudes a serene ambiance, inviting devotees and art enthusiasts alike to witness the timeless beauty of the past.

Udupi’s charm extends to its pristine beaches, and Malpe Beach emerges as a serene retreat along the Arabian Sea. The golden sands, gentle waves, and clear blue sky create a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers and those seeking a moment of repose.

The nearby St. Mary’s Island, with its unique hexagonal basaltic rock formations, adds a touch of geological fascination to the coastal experience. Manipal is just a stone’s throw away from Udupi, a bustling educational hub known for its prestigious institutions.

Manipal University and the diverse student population contribute to the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Exploring Manipal offers a glimpse into the academic energy that fuels the region, making it an interesting detour for those curious about the intersection of education and culture.

Every visit to Udupi is complete with indulging in its renowned cuisine. Udupi has gifted the world with the flavors of South Indian vegetarian fare, characterized by its simplicity and authenticity.

The Udupi Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak, and the delectable Udupi Sambar are culinary delights transcending regional borders. Visitors can savor these delicacies in the town’s traditional eateries, each serving a culinary legacy that has stood the test of time.

Udupi is also known for its unique Paryaya Festival, where the responsibility of performing daily rituals at the Sri Krishna Temple is transferred from one seer (Swamiji) to another. This ceremony takes place every two years, attracting pilgrims and tourists who witness the grandeur of the procession and the cultural significance of this age-old tradition.

8. Bijapur: The City of Victory

Stepping into the northern part of Karnataka, we encounter the historic city of Bijapur, renowned for its architectural marvels from the Adil Shahi dynasty. Explore the grandeur of Gol Gumbaz, marvel at the intricate Ibrahim Rouza, and witness the ancient beauty of Jod Gumbaz. Bijapur is a testament to the victory and architectural prowess of medieval Karnataka.

Our exploration of Karnataka’s rich heritage leads us to Bijapur, a city steeped in history and architectural splendor. Known as the “City of Victory,” Bijapur narrates tales of conquests, cultural fusion, and the grandeur of the Deccan Sultanate.

As we traverse the labyrinthine streets of this ancient city, iconic monuments of Karnataka echo the victories and aspirations of a bygone era.

a) Gol Gumbaz: The Whispering Dome

Bijapur’s skyline is dominated by the iconic Gol Gumbaz, a mausoleum that stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Adil Shahi dynasty.

The central dome of Gol Gumbaz is one of the largest in the world, and its unique acoustic properties make it a marvel of engineering.

A mere whisper at one end of the whispering gallery reverberates and reaches the other, creating an awe-inspiring auditory experience.

The tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur, lies at the center, surrounded by the symmetrical arches and galleries that characterize the structure.

b)  Ibrahim Rauza: The Twin Monuments

Bijapur unfolds another architectural gem in the form of Ibrahim Rauza, a complex that includes the tomb of Ibrahim Adil Shah II and his queen.

The twin structures, adorned with intricate calligraphy and stunning tile work, showcase the Indo-Persian architectural style.

The serene ambiance of the complex, set against the backdrop of a large tank, adds to the charm, creating a tranquil space for reflection and appreciation of the artistic heritage.

c) Jama Masjid: Grandeur in Simplicity

The Jama Masjid of Bijapur, built during the reign of Ali Adil Shah I, is a testament to the city’s cultural synthesis.

Though relatively simple, the mosque exudes grandeur through its massive domes, slender minarets, and expansive courtyard.

The mosque’s architecture reflects the amalgamation of Persian and Indian styles, creating a harmonious blend that symbolizes religious tolerance and artistic fusion.

d) Malik-e-Maidan: The Monarch of Cannons

Nestled within the city is the Malik-e-Maidan, one of the largest medieval cannons in the world.

This colossal cannon, weighing around 55 tons, is a marvel of metallurgy and engineering.

The cannon rests on a massive stone platform, and its barrel is adorned with intricate artwork.

Malik-e-Maidan serves as a silent witness to the military prowess and technological advancements of the Adil Shahi dynasty.

e) Bijapur Fort: – Sentinel of History

The Bijapur Fort, with its towering walls and bastions, encapsulates the city’s strategic significance throughout history.

The fort houses various monuments, including the Asar Mahal and the Bara Kaman.

Exploring the fort allows visitors to trace the footsteps of the rulers who shaped Bijapur’s destiny, leaving behind a legacy that continues to unfold with every step within the fort’s precincts.

f) Asar Mahal: Relics of the Past

Within the Bijapur Fort, the Asar Mahal emerges as a repository of relics and artifacts.

Originally built as a hall of justice, the Asar Mahal now houses a collection of holy relics and the sword of the Prophet Muhammad.

The delicate inlay work and intricate carvings make it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and those fascinated by the cultural legacy of Bijapur.

In Bijapur, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” resonates with the monumental triumphs and architectural marvels that dot the cityscape.

Each monument is a silent witness to the ebb and flow of history, narrating stories of courage, cultural exchange, and artistic brilliance.

As we bid farewell to Bijapur, the echoes of victory and the city’s enduring spirit accompany us, paving the way for the next chapter in our exploration of enchanting tourist places in Karnataka.

9. Jog Falls: Nature’s Spectacle in the Western Ghats

Our journey takes a thrilling detour to Jog Falls, the second-highest plunge waterfall in India. Nestled in the verdant Western Ghats, Jog Falls cascades down a rugged cliff, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Witness the beauty of the four distinct falls – Raja, Roarer, Rocket, and Rani – and embark on a nature-infused adventure in the lush surroundings.

Our journey through the diverse landscapes of Karnataka takes an exhilarating turn as we venture towards Jog Falls, a breathtaking cascade nestled amidst the verdant expanse of the Western Ghats. Nature’s grandeur unfolds in Jog Falls, a spectacle that captivates the senses and exemplifies the inspiring beauty of Karnataka’s new wonders.

Jog Falls, also known as Gerusoppa Falls, is not just a waterfall; it’s a symphony of nature’s elements in their most dynamic form. The falls consist of four distinct cascades—Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket—that collectively plunge from about 830 feet. Water’s sheer force and volume create a mesmerizing spectacle reverberating the surrounding landscapes.

The tallest Raja among the four cascades exudes majesty as it plunges down the rugged cliffs. The water descends in a single unbroken column, creating a captivating visual reflecting the Sharavathi River’s untamed power. The mist rising from the impact adds an ethereal touch to the scene, making the Raja a commanding presence in the ensemble of Jog Falls.

Adjacent to the Raja, the Rani descends with a more graceful and cascading flow. The water fans out as it makes its way down, creating an intricate pattern that contrasts with the powerful descent of the Raja. The two cascades harmonize nature’s contrasting forces, offering viewers a unique and unforgettable panorama.

As the name suggests, the Roarer lives up to its reputation as the noisiest among the four falls. The thunderous roar of the water echoes through the surroundings, creating a symphony of sound that complements the visual splendor. The sheer force of the Roarer emphasizes the relentless power of the Sharavathi River as it carves its path through the Western Ghats.

The fourth cascade, known as the Rocket, adds a touch of finesse to the ensemble. The water descends with a graceful yet rapid flow reminiscent of a rocket’s trajectory. The playful dance of the Rocket completes the quartet, showcasing the diversity of forms that water can take as it cascades down the cliffs.

The heavy rainfall in the Western Ghats rejuvenates the Sharavathi River, transforming Jog Falls into a magnificent display of nature’s abundance. The increased water flow during this period enhances the grandeur of the falls, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.

Several viewpoints surround Jog Falls, allowing visitors to witness the cascades from different angles. The Watkins Platform, the main viewing area, provides a panoramic view of the falls and is easily accessible by a flight of stairs.

The Sharavathi River Valley Viewpoint and the British Bungalow Viewpoint offer alternative perspectives, unveiling a unique aspect of Jog Falls’ splendor. In Jog Falls, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” is a natural masterpiece sculpted by the forces of water and time. Each cascade contributes to a symphony that resonates with the rhythms of the Western Ghats.

As we witness the grandeur of Jog Falls, we are reminded of the raw beauty that nature generously bestows upon Karnataka, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking solace and inspiration in the lap of untamed landscapes.

10. Belur and Halebidu: Temples of Chalukyan Grandeur

Our final destination introduces us to the architectural wonders of Belur and Halebidu, showcasing the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. Admire the intricate carvings at Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu. These temples epitomize the artistic brilliance of Karnataka’s medieval history.

Our exploration through the architectural wonders of Karnataka leads us to the historic towns of Belur and Halebidu, where the Chalukyan legacy unfolds in the form of magnificent temples.

Belur and Halebidu, situated in the Hassan district, stand as living testimonials to the artistic brilliance and cultural richness of ancient Karnataka, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Chalukyan architecture.

Our journey begins in Belur, home to the Chennakeshava Temple, a masterpiece that epitomizes the finesse of Hoysala architecture. Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century, this temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu and is a testament to the Chalukyan dynasty’s patronage of the arts.

The friezes and sculptures narrate stories with such detail and precision that they appear alive, showcasing the sculptors’ mastery of their craft. The bracket figures supporting the temple’s ceiling testify to the sculptors’ creativity, featuring celestial beings, dancers, and musicians frozen in time.

The highlight of the Chennakeshava Temple is the Darpana Sundari, a sculpture of a lady with a mirror, symbolizing the artistic perfection achieved by the Hoysala artisans. The temple’s sanctum houses a glorious image of Lord Vishnu in the form of Chennakeshava, attracting devotees and art enthusiasts alike with its divine aura.

A short journey from Belur takes us to Halebidu, where the Hoysaleswara Temple awaits with its awe-inspiring architecture. Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana’s grandson, the Hoysaleswara of Lord Shiva is known for its carvings and colossal statues.

The exterior walls of the Hoysaleswara Temple depict an array of deities, celestial beings, and mythological scenes. The temple’s friezes showcase the intricacy of Hoysala artistry, with finely detailed carvings of elephants, lions, and mythical creatures.

The walls narrate tales from the epics, showcasing the cultural and spiritual significance embedded in every inch of stone.

One remarkable feature of the Hoysaleswara Temple is its two Nandi (bull) sculptures, each positioned on either side of its entrance. These monolithic Nandi statues, carved with exquisite detail, exemplify the Hoysala sculptors’ skill in transforming stone into lifelike forms.

While exploring Halebidu, visiting the Kedareshwara Temple is necessary for those seeking a quieter but equally mesmerizing experience. The Kedareshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, boasts exquisite carvings and a serene ambiance.

Though smaller in scale than the Hoysaleswara Temple, it holds its charm with delicately crafted sculptures, and a sense of tranquility pervades the temple complex.

Both Belur and Halebidu, located nearby, are easily accessible from major cities in Karnataka. 

In Belur and Halebidu, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” unfolds as a journey through the corridors of time, where every sculpture, frieze, and pillar tells a story of artistic excellence and cultural legacy.

As we bid farewell to Belur and Halebidu, the echoes of the Chalukyan era linger, paving the way for the next chapter in our exploration of enchanting tourist places in Karnataka.

11. Shravanabelagola: A Monumental Epitome of Jain Heritage

Our expedition through Karnataka takes us to the sacred town of Shravanabelagola, where the colossal monolithic statue of Lord Gommateshwara stands as an iconic symbol of Jain heritage.

Perched atop the Vindhyagiri Hill, this statue, also known as Bahubali, is a towering figure that reaches a height of 57 feet, making it one of the tallest free-standing statues in the world.

The ascent to the Vindhyagiri Hill involves a flight of stone-cut steps, offering pilgrims and visitors a contemplative journey.

The panoramic view from the hilltop adds to the spiritual experience, with the statue of Lord Gommateshwara presiding over the landscape.

The serene ambiance of Shravanabelagola and the profound sense of devotion make it a significant pilgrimage site for Jains and a cultural gem for all who seek a connection with Karnataka’s rich heritage.

12. Hampi: Ruins Amidst Breathtaking Landscapes

Our final destination in this journey through Karnataka is the World Heritage Site of Hampi. Once the assets of the Vijayanagara, Hampi is a sprawling archaeological complex that spans over 4,100 hectares.

The ruins of Hampi, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Tungabhadra River and the distinctive boulder-strewn landscapes, create a surreal setting that transports visitors to a bygone era.

The Virupaksha Temple, the Lotus Mahal, the Hazara Rama Temple, and the iconic stone chariot at the Vittala Temple are just a few of the architectural assets that spot the terrain of Hampi. The ruins narrate tales of a flourishing empire, intricate craftsmanship, and the cultural confluence that defined the Vijayanagara era.

Exploring Hampi’s ancient streets, bazaars, and royal quarters offers a glimpse into the empire’s grandeur. The sprawling landscapes and architectural remnants make Hampi a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and those seeking to unravel the mysteries of a lost city.

As our journey through Karnataka ends, the kaleidoscope of experiences from Belur and Halebidu to Shravanabelagola and Hampi forms a tapestry that encapsulates the state’s diverse cultural, historical, and natural wonders.

With its vibrant heritage, Karnataka is an open invitation to travelers to immerse themselves in the tales written in stone, the echoes of spiritual devotion, and the breathtaking landscapes that define this enchanting land.

13. Badami: A Tapestry of Rock-Cut Splendor

Our journey through Karnataka continues to Badami, a town renowned for its rock-cut cave temples showcasing the Chalukyan dynasty’s architectural brilliance. The Agastya Lake, enveloped by the red sandstone hills, adds a serene backdrop to this archaeological treasure, making Badami a must-visit destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of history and natural beauty.

At the heart of Badami’s allure are the exquisite Badami Cave Temples, a complex of rock-cut wonders that date back to the 6th century. 

Each cave temple narrates a story through its detailed carvings and sculptures.

Cave 1, dedicated to Lord Shiva, features a colossal sculpture of Nataraja, the cosmic dancer, and intricate depictions of episodes from Hindu mythology.

Cave 2, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, boasts a magnificent relief of Lord Vishnu in his Varaha incarnation, rescuing Goddess Earth from the depths of the cosmic ocean.

Cave 3, again dedicated to Lord Vishnu, displays scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, illustrating the timeless tales of heroism and morality.

Cave 4, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, represents the inclusive spirit of the Chalukyan kings, as they patronized Hindu and Jain cave temples.

The Agastya Lake is nestled in the shadows of the cave temples, whose tranquil waters reflect the timeless beauty of Badami’s rock-cut marvels. The lake, believed to have been created by the sage Agastya, adds a serene touch to the archaeological wonders surrounding its shores.

Visitors often find solace by the lake, contemplating the ancient structures mirrored in its still waters as if transported to a different era. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple showcases a fusion of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles, exemplifying the artistic versatility of the Chalukyan architects. 

A short journey from Badami leads to the Banashankari Temple, an ancient shrine that celebrates the divine feminine. The temple’s architecture, characterized by its symmetry and intricately carved pillars, exemplifies the Chalukyan style. Devotees and art enthusiasts alike are drawn to the spiritual ambiance and artistic richness that define Banashankari Temple.

Badami, one of the key tourist places in Karnataka, is easily accessible from major cities and towns. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is pivotal in preserving and maintaining the rock-cut monuments, ensuring that future generations can marvel at the Chalukyan legacy.

In the grand tapestry of Karnataka’s cultural heritage, Badami is a vivid thread woven with the skillful hands of ancient artisans. The rock-cut splendor of Badami, from the cave temples to the lakeside elegance, invites travelers to show the mysteries of the past and catch the constant beauty carved in stone.

As we explore the rock-cut marvels of Badami, the keyword “Tourist Places in Karnataka” takes on a new dimension, resonating with the echoes of history, devotion, and artistic grandeur.

14. Gokarna: Where Spirituality Meets Coastal Tranquility

Nestled along the Arabian Sea, Gokarna beckons travelers with its unique blend of spirituality and coastal charm. This quaint town, known for its sacred Mahabaleshwar Temple, attracts pilgrims and beach enthusiasts alike.

The pristine beaches of Gokarna, such as Kudle Beach and Om Beach, offer a serene retreat where travelers can unwind amidst the rhythmic waves and golden sands. Gokarna’s laid-back atmosphere and spiritual aura create a unique ambiance that invites introspection and relaxation.

As our journey through the kaleidoscopic landscapes of Karnataka unfolds, we find ourselves drawn to Gokarna. This coastal town seamlessly blends spirituality and the tranquil embrace of the Arabian Sea.

Gokarna, often called the “Land of Lord Shiva’s Ear,” is a destination that beckons pilgrims and seekers of seaside serenity, making it a quintessential addition to the array of tourist places in Karnataka.

At the heart of Gokarna lies the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This sacred site holds immense religious significance, drawing devotees who seek blessings and spiritual solace. The temple’s Dravidian architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, transports visitors to an era of devotion and artistic splendor.

The Mahabaleshwar Temple is home to the Atmalinga, a divine lingam that was believed to have been consecrated by Lord Ganapati. Pilgrims undertake a sacred journey to Gokarna to witness the magnificence of this lingam, which is said to represent the cosmic energy of Lord Shiva.

The temple’s sanctity and architectural allure create an atmosphere of reverence that captivates all who enter its hallowed halls.

Beyond the spiritual sanctum of Gokarna, the town unfolds its coastal charms with pristine beaches that invite travelers to unwind amidst nature’s splendor. Kudle Beach, with its golden sands and azure waters, offers a serene retreat where the rhythmic waves create a lullaby for the soul. 

The beach’s crescent form and the gentle waves lapping against its shores create an idyllic panorama. Om Beach is not just a scenic spot; it’s a canvas where nature’s artistry meets the vastness of the Arabian Sea, inviting beachgoers to connect with the elements and embrace the tranquility that defines Gokarna’s coastal allure.

Gokarna exudes a unique atmosphere where the sacred and the serene coexist harmoniously. The town’s narrow lanes, dotted with humble guesthouses and cafes, create an ambiance that resonates with the tranquil vibes of coastal living.

Visitors often find themselves immersed in the laid-back lifestyle, embracing the simplicity and authenticity that defines Gokarna’s charm.

While Mahabaleshwar Temple is the spiritual nucleus, Gokarna is adorned with several other temples that add to the town’s religious mosaic. The Maha Ganapati Temple, Uma Maheshwara Temple, and Bhadrakali Temple each contribute to Gokarna’s spiritual richness, inviting pilgrims on a sacred pilgrimage through the town’s sacred sites.

Koti Teertha, a sacred tank surrounded by temples, is believed to contain water from several holy rivers. Taking a dip in Koti Teertha is considered promising, reinforcing the spiritual aura permeating every corner of Gokarna.

As our journey through Gokarna concludes, the town is a testimony to the seamless blend of spirituality and coastal tranquility. The echoes of prayers at Mahabaleshwar Temple, the gentle lapping of waves on Kudle Beach, and the harmonious vibes that envelop Gokarna make it a unique destination in the array of tourist places in Karnataka.

Whether one seeks spiritual awakening or a peaceful escape by the sea, Gokarna extends an invitation to discover the beauty that arises when spirituality meets the serenity of the coast.

15. Bidar: A Citadel of History and Architecture

Our final stop in this kaleidoscopic journey through Karnataka is Bidar, a city steeped in history and architectural splendor. Bidar’s crowning jewel is the fort, a formidable structure withstood the test of time.

The fort encompasses various monuments, including the Rangin Mahal, Solah Khamba Mosque, and the Gagan Mahal, each narrating tales from the Bahmani and Barid Shahi dynasties. The intricate tile work, Persian influences, and the fusion of Indo-Islamic architecture make Bidar Fort a testament to the region’s cultural amalgamation.

Bidar’s historical significance, vibrant markets, and serene Nanak Jhira Sahib Gurudwara offer a multifaceted experience for those eager to delve into Karnataka’s rich tapestry of history and heritage.

Our expedition through Karnataka’s treasure troves of history and architectural splendor brings us to Bidar. This city unfolds as a captivating citadel steeped in a rich tapestry of bygone eras. Bidar’s historical significance and architectural marvels place it firmly on the map of must-visit tourist places in Karnataka.

At the heart of Bidar stands the formidable Bidar Fort, a monumental structure that has witnessed centuries of conquests, cultural exchanges, and the ebb and flow of history.

Originally built by the Bahmani Sultanate in the 15th century and later fortified by the Barid Shahi dynasty, Bidar Fort is a sprawling complex encompassing various structures that narrate the saga of Bidar’s past.

The imposing walls of Bidar Fort bear testament to the military prowess of its builders. The intricate bastions and watchtowers, strategically positioned along the fortifications, provide a glimpse into the defensive strategies employed during medieval times.

As visitors traverse the ancient pathways within the fort, the whispers of history resonate through the very stones beneath their feet.

Within the precincts of Bidar Fort lies the Rangin Mahal, a palace that stands out as a vibrant testament to the architectural finesse of the Barid Shahi rulers. True to its name, which translates to “Palace of Colors,” Rangin Mahal is adorned with intricate tile work, frescoes, and decorative elements that showcase the artisans’ mastery over their craft.

The palace walls are alive with scenes from courtly life, floral motifs, and geometric patterns, creating a mesmerizing tableau that transports visitors to a bygone era of luxury and artistic brilliance.

Adjacent to Rangin Mahal is the Solah Khamba Mosque, an architectural gem that reflects the religious tolerance and cultural synthesis prevalent during the Barid Shahi period. The mosque, supported by sixteen pillars, boasts an intricate blend of Persian and Indian architectural styles.

The grandeur of Solah Khamba Mosque lies in its architectural symmetry and the peaceful coexistence of diverse cultural influences within its sacred precincts.

Gagan Mahal, or the Heavenly Palace, is another Bidar Fort crown jewel. This regal structure served as the durbar hall for the Barid Shahi rulers, witnessing the grandeur of royal ceremonies and diplomatic events.

The architecture of Gagan Mahal exudes a certain majesty, with its arched doorways, ornate balconies, and spacious courtyards, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Bidar kings.

Beyond the confines of Bidar Fort, the city’s vibrant markets add a contemporary touch to its historical charm. Bidar’s bazaars showcase local craftsmanship, allowing visitors to explore traditional Bidriware, a unique metalwork art form that originated in the region.

Nanak Jhira Sahib Gurudwara, located on the outskirts of Bidar, holds spiritual significance. The Gurudwara is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, who visited Bidar during his travels.

The sacred spring within the Gurudwara believed to have been created by Guru Nanak’s touch, continues to draw pilgrims seeking solace and spiritual rejuvenation.

a) Karnataka’s Kaleidoscope of Wonders

As we conclude our extensive journey through must-see tourist places in Karnataka, it’s evident that the state is a kaleidoscope of diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural splendor.

From Bangalore’s bustling metropolis to Gokarna’s tranquil beaches, the regal ambiance of Mysuru to the historic ruins of Hampi, Karnataka unfolds as a treasure trove for avid travelers.

The highlighted keyword, “Tourist Places in Karnataka,” serves as an open invitation to explore the myriad wonders that this South Indian state has to offer.

Karnataka is more than a destination; it’s a symphony of experiences that resonate with the echoes of history, the beauty of nature, and the warmth of its people.

So, whether you are an architecture lover, a nature lover, a past buff, or someone seeking spiritual serenity, Karnataka calls out its array of tourist places in Karnataka waiting to be explored and cherished.

Pack your bags, embark on this virtual journey, and let Karnataka weave its enchanting spell on you. As we bring the curtains down on this odyssey through Karnataka’s multifaceted landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the echoes of the past, the vibrancy of the present, and the promise of the future linger in the air.

The highlighted keyword, “Tourist Places in Karnataka,” has guided this journey, unveiling the wonders that make this South Indian state a destination.

b) From Bangalore’s Urban Splendor to Hampi’s Historical Marvels and Gokarna’s Coastal Charms

From the bustling metropolis of Bangalore to the regal grandeur of Mysuru, the ancient ruins of Hampi, and the tranquil beaches of Gokarna, Karnataka presents a mosaic of diversity that captivates the soul.

Each chapter of this exploration has unfurled a different facet of the state, revealing its historical tapestry, cultural richness, and natural splendor.

Our journey commenced in the vibrant city of Bangalore, where the urban landscape seamlessly blends with cultural heritage.

The Garden City, also known as the Silicon Valley of India, boasts modern marvels like Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Vidhana Soudha alongside the historic Bangalore Palace.

The streets of M.G. Road and Brigade Road, pulsating with life, embody the city’s dynamic spirit. Heading southwest, we found ourselves in Mysuru, a royal enclave reverberating with tales of Wadiyars’ opulence.

T he Mysuru Palace, a masterpiece of architecture, is a testament to the bygone era of regal grandeur. The Dasara Festival, a celebration of cultural richness and festivity, transforms Mysuru into a kaleidoscope of colors and traditions.

Venturing into the northern realms of Karnataka, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi unveiled a treasure trove of historical marvels.

The Vijayanagara Empire’s remnants, including the Virupaksha Temple and the iconic stone chariot, transported us to an era of architectural splendor and artistic brilliance.

Heading westward, Gokarna beckoned with its unique blend of spiritual bliss and coastal charms.  Om Beach and Half Moon Beach provided serene retreats, while the Mahabaleshwar Temple added a touch of spirituality to the sandy shores.  Gokarna, a place where the rhythms of the sea harmonize with the chants of devotion, offered a tranquil escape.

The journey into the lush Western Ghats led us to Coorg, the Scotland of India, where sprawling coffee plantations, Abbey Falls, and Tadiandamol Peak painted a picture of nature’s embrace. Jog Falls, a breathtaking cascade of water in the rugged Western Ghats, allowed us to witness nature’s sheer force and beauty.

c) A Tapestry of Heritage, Architecture, Nature, and Culinary Delights

The exploration took an artistic turn in Badami, where cave temples carved into sandstone cliffs revealed a legacy of Chalukyan craftsmanship.

The Hoysala architecture of Belur and Halebidu showcased intricate carvings and artistic brilliance, transporting us to a bygone era of grand temples and exquisite sculptures.

Udupi, nestled along the Arabian Sea, offered a delectable journey through its cuisine and a spiritual sojourn at the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha. The pristine beaches of Malpe and the authentic Udupi vegetarian fare added to the charm of this coastal town.

The historic city of Bijapur, with its architectural marvels like Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rouza, and Jod Gumbaz, unfolded the tales of medieval triumphs and the architectural prowess of the Adil Shahi dynasty.

A thrilling detour to Jog Falls allowed us to witness this cascading wonder’s raw power and natural beauty in the Western Ghats.

The four distinct falls – Raja, Roarer, Rocket, and Rani – painted a spectacular canvas against the lush green backdrop.

In conclusion, Karnataka is a tapestry woven with threads of heritage, spirituality, nature, and modernity.

The tourist places in Karnataka we’ve explored collectively create a narrative that transcends time and beckons travelers to unravel the layers of this enchanting state.

So, whether captivated by ancient ruins, awe-inspired by architectural marvels, or seeking solace in nature’s embrace, Karnataka welcomes you with open arms.

Pack your curiosity, embark on this voyage of discovery, and let Karnataka reveal its splendors, one tourist place at a time.

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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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Lakes In Karnataka

• Mysore (Mysuru)
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Karnataka Tourism (India) (2024) - A Complete Travel Guide

Table of Contents

• 1. Ulsoor Lake

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• About Karnataka Tourism
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Lakes in Bangalore

With the increased number of millennials and the awareness created, Bangalore residents are a little more concerned about their health. Even families are looking for some getaways from the mundane. Lakes in Bangalore have of late become a one-stop location for fitness freaks, yoga enthusiasts, runners, and joggers and not just for people who want to spend time in serenity. Lakes in Bangalore are well maintained with jogging tracks, mini-gyms, facilities like drinking water, washrooms, kids’ play area, benches for sitting and much more. Because of such reasons Bangalore is known for its gardens and lakes. There are over 100 lakes in Bangalore that are maintained by BBMP, BDA and the forest department. The majority of the lakes are from the 16th century. The most visited lakes in Bangalore are listed here.

Ulsoor Lake

Also known as Halasuru Lake, it is a one-stop destination for nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, bird watchers, nature photographers, kids of all age groups and senior citizens. Spread across over 1.5 sq. km, in the heart of the city in the CBD area, this lake is one of the major attractions of Bangalore. Dating back to 1537, Ulsoor Lake is one of the oldest and largest lakes in Bangalore. A paradise for joggers and walkers is a favourite place for celebrity fitness enthusiasts too. The mini-gym, jogging track, garden, boating, watching a sunrise, and bird-watching, are some of the activities enjoyed by the residents and travellers from other cities. The lake also has a dedicated pond for immersing lord Ganesha and goddess Durga statues after the festivals Ganesh Chaturthi and Durga puja as a ritual. The lake is filled with colours of joy and festivities. Surrounded by various star-category hotels and multi-cuisine eating joints, the Ulsoor lake area is a very busy and happening location in Bangalore. Located just behind the lake, is a Gurudwara that adds charm to the lake. One can also visit several ancient temples in and around Ulsoor.

• There is a fee of Rs 25 after 8 am for adults and kids below 12 years who are free.
• The lake is open from 6 am to 7 pm
• Boating is subject to weather conditions.

Sankey Tank Lake

In the heart of the town and amidst Bangalore’s old charm Sadashivnagar and Malleshwaram, Sankey Tank is one of the oldest and most charming lakes cum tanks in Bangalore. The calm and quaint lake is a hotspot for those who want to have a quality time just sitting by the lakeside. Sankey tank is an ideal location for joggers, morning walkers and even kids who want to play in an open area away from home. If you are a senior citizen, this man-made lake nestled in the heart of the town is a perfect place to spend some quality time with your friends by doing yoga, doing laughter exercises or just chit-chatting. Nature lovers can have a gala time by watching birds during sunrise and the serenity all around. The mesmerising sunset attracts lots of admirers. Do you love boating? Yes, the Sankey tank offers boating facilities on a chargeable basis for a quaint and delightful boat ride around the lake. The lake complex also houses a swimming pool, so if want to have a good swim head out to Sankey Tank. You can also enjoy the authentic Kannadiga cuisine in the Malleshwaram area after visiting the lake.

• Timings: 6 am to 8 pm. Open on all days except Friday.
• The entry fee for adults is Rs.10 and for kids Rs 5
• Boating timings are 10 am to 6 pm.

One of the oldest, dating to the 8th century Agara Lake is a paradise for joggers, runners and early risers. Located in a busy area of HSR layout, this beautiful lake is one of the most famous natural lakes in Bangalore. Spread across 98 acres, the lake is also home to some migratory birds like spot-billed pelicans and is a treat to the eyes. Large trees, amazing varieties of flora, a cool breeze, a glittery lake, kids play area and a well-laid jogging track, entices not only the residents but also enthusiasts across the city. One may not have any reasons or excuse to visit the lake, but just sitting by the side of the lake in a calm environment is very soothing to the soul. There are a lot of eating joints outside the lake where you can stop by for a hearty breakfast.

• There is no entry fee.
• The lake is open from 5.30 am to 11 am and from 4 pm to 6.30 pm. On Sundays, the lake is open from 5.30 am to 6.30 pm
• There is no boating.

Lal Bagh Lake

Located inside the famous Lal Bagh Botanical Garden , the Lake is exceptionally beautiful and picturesque. A well-planned landscape mesmerises visitors, travellers, fitness enthusiasts, families and photographers. Commissioned by Hyder Ali in 1760 and completed by his son Tipu Sultan, spread across 240 acres, Lal Bagh acclaimed recognition across the world. The lake, botanicalartwork, variety of plants, scientific study and conservation of plants and rock which is supposed to be more than 3000 million years old are the highlights of Lal Bagh. The Lake at Lal Bagh is a paradise for joggers, photographers, yoga enthusiasts, nature lovers, kids, and all those who want to spend quality time in tranquillity. The lake also attracts numerous migratory and resident birds like Night Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Egrets and many local birds. Lake is surrounded by a variety of trees which are more than 100 years old. Most of the birds are nestled here. Spending time near the lake is the favourite time for most of the visitors. One can easily spend 2-3 hours near the lake and in the botanical garden. Feeding fish in the lake is also a major attraction, especially for toddlers.

• Timings for the lake are from 9 am to 6 pm.
• The entry fee is Rs 25 after being. There are no entry fees for morning walkers/joggers from 6 am to 9 am and evening 4 pm to 7 pm.
• There is a separate entry fee during the events like Cake Show, Flower show, Mango mela etc.

Hesaraghatta Lake

The melodious chirping of birds in a lush green environment is what we all long for. Hesaraghatta Lake is often referred to as a mini bird sanctuary, being home to various species of local birds. Spread across 1000 acres, Hesaraghatta is one of the hottest weekend getaways for Bangaloreans. A man-made lake was made in 1894 to store water from the Akravathi River and to supply drinking water to Bangalore city. The vast grassland and the lake at Hesaraghatta offer visitors amazing views of sunrise and chirping birds. The lake is in its glory during monsoon and post-monsoon till the winter. Winters are the best time to visit to get a glimpse of those beautiful migratory birds. Hesaraghatta is a popular destination for motor bikers, cyclists and photographers.

• There is no entry fee to the lake.
• There are no boating facilities
• Visiting time is 6 am to 6 pm. But the early morning hours give the best views.

Avathi Lake

If you are looking at spending half a day away from the hustle –bustle of city chaos, head out to Avathi Lake. A perfect weekend getaway for day trips just an hour away from Bangalore city. If you are a cyclist, biker or just love long drives, take this path of offbeat location vis-à-vis Nandi Hills. You can avoid the Nandi Hills crowd and head towards Avathi Betta Lake. A picturesque with Avathi Betta in the background, the lake offers the most amazing views. Just walk around the lake, enjoy a picnic, climb a betta (hill) or sit there by the side of the lake and soak up yourself in the serenity of the lake surroundings. There are not much of activities in and around Avathi lake but the calmness will give the quality time with yourself as well as with your friends and family.

• The lake is open throughout the day.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.
• Carry sun and rain protection as there are not much of trees.
• Carry food and water as there is nothing available near the lake.
• Do not leave any trash.

So if boating, jogging, running, walking, bird watching, sitting under a tree and just being in nature are your favourite activities then Bangalore is the place. Bangalore is blessed with so many such lakes and is a perfect treat to the eyes and the soul as well.

PS: Keep the lakes clean and DO NOT LITTER.

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10 Most Beautiful Lakes in Bangalore

Bangalore is one of the fastest globalising cities India has today. What with tech parks and urban adventure retreats, you’d think it couldn’t have anything more to offer. You’re wrong. Because Bangalore offers a dollop even of the most calming natural wonders ever- lakes. Fresh to marine, in different hues, Bangalore has them all. Lakes make great tourist or regular visiting spots because they are tranquil, free from pollution, and you can indulge in various activities like boating, bird watching, photography etc all along them. B’Lore’s lakes have also fallen prey in parts to the demons of progress, namely pollution as well, and a lot of them have been totally wiped off from the face of the Earth. But not to worry! The remainders have this amazing collection of 10 on the list.

1. Hebbal Lake

Hebbal Lake is one of the most picturesque lakes Bangalore has on offer and is a hotspot for a lot of activities . You can actively indulge in watching several species of rare birds, or photograph them. The surrounding visuals are also worth photographing. Unfortunately, such a great eco friendly spot isn’t properly shielded itself, with widespread exposure to daily industrial pollution.

2. Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake is one of the lakes with the best locations in the city, located at the convenient, well connected near centre. It is also an ecological marvel with visuals that can challenge others for photography. It also is known for its boating opportunities , having a very tranquil atmosphere.

3. Agara Lake

Agara Lake is a lake that is as magnificent by light of day as it is by night lit up by artificial lights. It is full of natural beauty, but is suffering from lack of cleaning measures. It is within navigable distance of the HSR and is great for walking along the shorelines.

4. Lalbagh Lake

This wonder has a separate garden of its own in the premises which is a popular tourist spot in its own right. Accompanying Lalbagh Lake are various exotic flora and fauna species. The venue is noted for photography and serves as a sort of green barrier from the outside world.

5. Madiwala Lake

Madiwala Lake is also a lake that is surrounded by a lot of greenery. It is close to the BTM and all of Bangalore’s lakes could profit from a little more maintenance. You can go cruising the lake or just spend alone time here.

6. Varthur Lake

This was mainly a utility venture created artificially for aiding local irrigation. Today, large parts of it are of no use due to excessive pollution and adverse effects. Varthur Lake is more than a millennium old but a popular tourist spot.

7. Kengeri Lake

Kengeri Lake is also a man-made wonder, falling inside the Mysore province. Strange, it shares another sadder thing with Varthur. It is the fact that it is also falling prey to pollution and really disappearing. But you can still see stunning sights around if you visit.

8. Hesaraghatta Lake

There are rivers which are beautiful, that which are ecological landmarks, that which house life, and that which, like this one, are related to water conservation and power generation. Hesaraghatta Lake is both of that, being linked to the TG Halli Dam, and also used to serve drinking water purposes.

9. Kaikondrahalli Lake

Kaikondrahalli Lake is one place that has been thankfully kept out of pollution’s clutches due to the lucky low exposure. Locals visit this as much as tourists do, and give walks to both themselves and their furry friends. It also houses rare birds perfect for observation.

10. Sankey Tank

Rounding off this list with a man-made wonder, Sankey Tank is a tank as well as a lake. It is used to serve industrial purposes and is particularly dazzling at night with lights on. It is ideal for quick strolls.

Lakes are and always have been a great source of pleasure to the curious tourist. With manifold attractions both man made and natural, living and non living, one keeps coming back for more and maybe even captures memories in photographs. Bangalore has a diverse lot, don’t give it a miss by any chance!

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Explore the Best of Karnataka by Visiting These 20 Top Tourist Destinations

It is the richness of Karnataka which will surprise you. You will find ample amounts of it in its beaches, historical ruins, palaces, forests, religious sites and also in its cuisine. One day, the historian in you might lead you to the ruins of Hampi, while on the other, you might be tempted to explore its wildlife in the 27 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries scattered across the state. Sitting down to a meal of udupi sambar and Mysore masala dosa is as satisfying as standing before the Jog Falls or exploring the tea plantations of Coorg. You are transported to different time periods, see the many faces of nature and find sufficient opportunities for unwinding and relaxation when you plan your holiday in Karnataka. In this blog, we tell you the 20 best places to visit in Karnataka and what makes them so special.

Recommended Tours

1. Ruins of Hampi – Time comes to a standstill here!

For lack of a better word, we should refer to it as the ruins of Hampi. This was once a prosperous city, abundant in riches of all kinds. It is from the writings of various travellers over the ages, from Ibn Battuta to Fernao Nunes, that we are acquainted with its immense power and wealth. Today, Hampi stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, still managing to evoke surprise and admiration from visitors. While exploring the temples, elephants stables, chariots, bazaar streets and other parts of the ruins, various images of prosperity and opulence appear in your mind. You could visit Hampi as a solo traveller, or with your family. A backpacking trip here will give you a lot to talk about.

Top Things to See & Do

• Queen’s Bath
• Vijay Vittala, Virupaksha, Hanuman & Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple
• Lakshmi Narasimha Statue
• Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
• Matanga Hill
• Hampi Street Bazaar
• Royal Enclosure

20 Most Explored Historical Monuments in India

2. Coorg – Happiness call it its home!

Call it Coorg of Kodagu, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Karnataka. You should visit this place for its coffee plantations and its distinct culture. Topographically, it enjoys a high altitude, and is spread out leisurely on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. The richness in its culture is also reflected in its wildlife, as it boasts three wildlife sanctuaries and a famous national park in India called Nagarhole National Park , nowadays popularly known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park. Checking out the traditional costume, known as “kupaya”, is as exciting as trying out the native dishes, kadumbuttu and pandi curry. If the waterfalls don’t interest you, maybe the temples will. If both of them don’t, then you can always explore the coffee plantation and take in the beauty of the countryside.

Best Things to See & Do

• Nagarahole National Park
• Abbey Falls
• Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple
• Dubare Elephant Camp
• Brahmagiri Peak
• Raja’s Seat
• Mandalpatti View Point

12 Beautiful Animals to Spot in India’s National Parks

3. Bandipur National Park – Haven for wildlife lovers!

Photo: https://bit.ly/2OHFd6Y

Bandipur National Park is famous for many things, from spotting of tigers and elephants to a wide variety of birds. Along with Mudumalai, Nagarhole and Wayanad parks, it forms a part of Nilgiri biosphere reserve. The vegetation of the park is marked by a rich variety of trees like rosewood, sandalwood, Indian Kino, Indian Laurel, giant clumping bamboo and teak. Besides elephants and tigers, other animals which you can spot in Bandipur National Park include Indian palm, giant flying squirrel, rusty spotted cat, cat leopard, dhole and four horned antelope.

• Jeep Safari
• Spotting wildlife
• Birdwatching

4. Halebeedu – Unparalleled craftsmanship!

There was a time when Halebeedu was the second capital of the Hoysalas and was called Drawasamudra. Today, its temples tell of its grand past through their incredible architecture. They are the embodiment of excellent craftsmanship and represent the achievements of art and architecture under the Hoysala Empire. It got its present name after being conquered by the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century. The carvings on the temples don’t just restrict themselves to religious themes. In fact, one of them shows the harmful effects of consuming alcohol. The attention paid to the tiniest detail in the sculptures is really worth praising over and over. An example of this is the depiction of 1200 elephants in different postures.

• Kedareshwara Temple
• Hoysaleshwara Temple

Enjoy Your Trip to 15 Top Historical Places & Monuments in Karnataka

5. Mysore – Wrapped in royalty!

Mysore is synonymous with the Mysore Palace, an exercise in sheer opulence and extravagance. It is the royal past of this city that will continue to attract tourists, a past wrapped in riches and glory. First ruled by a succession of kings from the Wadiyar dynasty, then by Tipu Sultan, the “Tiger of Mysore”, and finally by the British, Mysore has seen more than its fair share of historical adventures. As a tourist, you will find a lot of opportunities for sightseeing, apart from the Mysore Palace. Religious structures and administrative ones, European classical structures standing alongside Indian ones, palaces, colleges and landmarks, there is much to keep you interested.

• Mysore Palace
• Lalith Mahal Palace
• Jagan Mohan Palace
• Crawford Hall
• Devaraja Market
• Government House
• Deputy Commissioner’s Office
• Silver Jubilee Clock Tower
• Parakal Mutt
• Oriental Research Institute
• Karanji Mansion
• Wellington House
• Vasantha Mahal

Popular Monuments in India that Reflect Rich Culture and Heritage

6. Gokarna – Just enjoy yourself!

The town of Gokarna would have been just another sleepy little town, just like so many others in Karnataka, had it not been for Gokarna Beach. Fondly called the OM Beach, as it resembles the religious Hindu symbol OM, it is a picture of undisturbed serenity. The shoreline of this famous beach in Karnataka , stretches all the way until it meets a rocky cliff, as is the case with several other beaches here. It is connected to other beaches via a boat ride, apart from walking. Boating is looked forward to enthusiastically, as are banana boat rides. Most of all though, it is dolphin spotting which promises to make your day.

• Dolphin spotting
• Banana boat rides
• Watch the spectacular sunset

Visit to the Top 20 Destinations with Friends in India

7. Srirangapatna – Witnessing the legacy of Tipu Sultan!

Just like Mysore, Srirangapatna has a royal past, which presents itself before tourists in a stylish way. Throughout its history, it has served as the historical capital of various kings and dynasties, including Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan. It is located just 16 km from Mysore, another famous place to visit in Karnataka, and is blessed with an incredibly rich cultural heritage. The town is dotted with structures like the Dariya Daulat Palace, which attests to his daring might and courage, with which he defeated the British in several battles. Then there is the Tipu Sultan Fort, whose walls depict the valour and gallantry of Tipu. The sightseeing opportunities do not end with just the historical structures, as there are places of natural beauty too.

• Dariya Daulat Palace
• Nimishamba Temple
• Balmuri Falls
• Tipu Sultan Fort
• Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon
• Jumma Masjid
• Ranganathaswamy Temple

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8. Agumbe – Looks a lot like Malgudi!

Those who have read Malgudi Days by R.K. Narayan always wish there was a place like it. Well, Agumbe is as close as you will ever come to finding Malgudi. It is a small sleepy village in the Malnad region in Shimoga district. Because of the heavy rainfall it receives, it is called the “Cherrapunji of the South”. Among the various hill stations in India, it stands out for being home to India’s exclusive Rainforest Research Station. You should visit this village during your Karnataka tour, to revel in the relaxed ambience and visit all the lovely places that it has to offer.

• Gopalakrishna Temple
• Jogi Gundi Falls
• Barkana Falls
• Onake Abbi Falls
• Sunset Point

9. Jog Falls – Falling with a vehemence!

Jog Falls is formed when River Sharavathy descends ferociously from an incredible height of almost 253 meters. It is the second highest plunge waterfall in Asia and should be visited during the monsoon to watch it in all its magnificence. The river swells up during the monsoons as a result of the Linganamakki Dam releasing excess water. The best part about visiting the Jog Falls in Karnataka is the opportunity to see it up close. A series of steps, numbering almost 1000, take you to the base of the falls. Watch it from a distance though, and the Jog Falls look like they were falling from the skies and forming a thick mist as they land, as if drawing attention of the onlookers to their intensity and uncontrolled rage.

• Photography

Where to See Waterfalls in India?

10. Mulliyana Giri – Towards the Peak!

The Western Ghats start from Gujarat and stretch all the way to Tamil Nadu . Along the way, they cover several states, Karnataka being one of them. Mulliyana Giri is the highest peak of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, and for trekkers, presents an exciting challenge. A part of Baba Budangiri Hills of Chikmagalur district, it stands proudly at an impressive height of almost 1929 m. It is named after a sage known as Mulappa Swamy, who is believed to have meditated in the caves located in close proximity. Completing the entire trek should take you about 4 hours while covering a distance of almost 4 km. The difficulty level of the trek is designated as easy to moderate, which means that even amateurs can try it. September to April are the best months to try this trek.

• Sightseeing

Best 25 Weekend Getaways from Mysore

11. Shravanabelagola – A famous Jain pilgrimage destination!

Shravanabelagola is located at a close proximity to Hassan district in Karnataka, and houses the Gomateshwara Bahubali Statue, which is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Jainism. It has an immense historical value too, apart from spiritual. This is believed to be the place where Chandragupta Maurya breathed his last after becoming a Jain monk and renouncing worldly desires. Throughout history, this place has attracted pilgrims, kings, monks, students and others. It is home to two hills, Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri, and it was in the former that Chandragupta Maurya is believed to have meditated. The colossal statue of Gomateshwara, standing at 57 feet, is located on Vindhyagiri Hill. Shravanabelagola also hosts the Mahamastakabhisheka, or the Great Consecration, every twelve years. On this occasion, the statue is worshipped by placing 1008 pots filled with sacred water. It is an impressive spectacle, and attracts people in impressive numbers.

• Bhagwan Bahubali Statue
• Chandragiri Hill
• Vindhyagiri Hill
• Chamundayara Basadi
• Aregal Basadi
• Belagola Pond
• Odegal Basadi

Must Visit 30 Famous Temples in India

12. Bijapur, Karnataka – Glory of Bahmani Sultanates!

Bijapur is great for those who love exploring historical sites, for it is dotted with several of them. Although it is known as Bijapur today, there was a time when it was known as Vijajpura. The city was formed by the Kalyani Chalukyas during the 10-11th centuries, followed by Yadavas, and then by the Bahmani Sultanate. It was during the latter’s reign that most of the tourist attractions like Bijapur Fort, Jama Masjid and Gol Gumbaz, were built. Although there are several mausoleums, mosques and watchtowers, it is the Gol Gumbaz which stands like a giant among others, always managing to impress visitors with its aesthetic and proportions.

• Jama Masjid
• Bijapur Fort
• Ibrahim Roza
• Malik-e-Maidan

Journey Through Karnataka’s Heritage Sites

13. Badami – Fabulous rock cut temples!

Even though Badami may not be as large as it was during the reign of the Badami Chalukyas, it has retained its majesty and evokes immense respect. It is associated with numerous mythological tales and legends, and is referred to in the Puranas as Vatapi. The Badami Cave Temples are the greatest attraction in Karnataka, all of which are accessible via a steep rock climb. The rock cut temples are found across four caves, each adorned with exquisite carvings. The first three caves depict various gods and goddesses in Hinduism, including Lord Shiva and Vishnu, in different avatars. In Cave 4, you come across the various Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers and guides in Jainism). Highly respected figures in the Jain religion, from Bahubali to Mahavira, are depicted in this cave. Other than these, there are other caves that touch upon different themes, from Buddhism to scenes of everyday life. Head towards the top of the cave temples, and your eyes meet the brownish waters of thee Agastya Lake, draped in all its mystery. Adjacent to it lies the Bhootnath Temple.

• Badami Cave Temples
• Agyasta Lake
• Northern Fort Temple
• Badami Fort

14. St. Mary’s Island – Take a leap of faith!

Photo: https://bit.ly/2M4WgO7

St. Mary’s Island still retains the cross which was placed by Vasco Da Gama upon landing there in 1498. After landing on the island, he named it O Padrão de Santa Maria, as a dedication to Mother Mary. The island is noticed for its unique salt rock formations, and because of this, has been declared as a National Geological Monument. Once you reach the island, start walking towards the right until you reach the cliff. Take a plunge into the sea here. Remember though, that you will have to swim for almost 5 minutes once you start, as there are no stops between the cliff and the beach. A unique sight awaits you at the shell beach, where shells take the place of sand. There is also a designated swimming zone along with facilities for banana boat rides. You can reach the island by hiring a ferry from Malpe Beach.

• Cliff Jumping
• Visit the Stella Maris Church
• Explore the Shell Beach

Plan a Tour to Top Weekend Getaways from Hyderabad

15. Kudremukh – The Horse Shaped Mountain!

It is places like Kudremukh that make Karnataka what it is. At first sight, you could dismiss it as another mountain range amongst the many mountain ranges in Karnataka. This is a mountain with a difference though. Not only is it the third highest peak in Karnataka, one side of it also resembles the face of a horse. It gets its name Kudremukh, which means horse-faced in the local language, from the fact that one side of it resembles a horse. A particular attraction is the Kudremukh National Park, which was established to protect endangered species of animals, from the lion-tailed macaque to the tiger. It was declared a national park in 1987.

• Hanuman Gundi
• Kalhatty Waterfalls
• Naga Teertha

Top 13 Places for Wildlife Tours in Karnataka

16. Somnathpur – Masterpieces of Hoysala architecture

Somnathpur is located almost 35 km from Mysore and is dotted with fabulous structures built during the reign of the Hoysalas. Magnificent temples dot the town at regular intervals, with each of them as enchanting as the other. The most famous of these is Kesava Temple, with its triple towers. Its outer walls are adorned with images where the particular attention to detail in each of them is amazing. On the ceiling, your eyes meet the images of gods, goddesses and scenes from the epics. One is forced to think about what must have inspired the creation of such masterpieces.

• Chennakesava Temple
• Somnathpur Temple
• Gunja Narasimha
• Gargeshwari Temple

17. Bengaluru – As cosmopolitan as it gets!

Finally, we have Bengaluru – the capital of Karnataka and a hub for high tech industries. It has everything that you ask for, in order to let you have a wonderful time. You can go shopping, visit a wildlife sanctuary, spend a quiet evening in a park or hangout at one of the glitzy malls. It is a cosmopolitan city and chances are that you will fall in love with the city sooner or later. There are heritage sites and religious ones, museums, lakes, art galleries and plenty of other opportunities for having a great time.

• Cubbon Park
• Lalbagh Gardens
• Karnataka Chitrakala Parishad
• Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
• National Gallery of Modern Art
• Ulsoor Lake
• Bull Temple
• Dodda Ganesh Temple
• Jamia Masjid
• Attara Kacheri
• Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum
• Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple

12 Amazing Kids Friendly Places to Explore near Bengaluru

18. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary – In the company of birds!

Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is the place to spot a variety of birds, in all colours, shapes and sizes. To visit this bird sanctuary, you will have to visit the district of Shimoga, about 16km from Sorab. The sanctuary is surrounded by the Gudavi Lake, which is filled to the brim during the monsoons. The sanctuary is home to almost 217 species of flora and fauna. Some of the most famous among these include night heron, grey heron, Indian shag, white headed crane, junglefowl, brahminy kite and black headed crane.

• Spot a variety of birds

Other attractions to check out in Karnataka

Apart from the famous tourist destinations, here are two other attractions which you can check out during your trip to Karnataka.

Famous Bird Sanctuaries and National Parks around Bangalore

19. Infant Jesus Church – Infant Jesus Blesses You!

We bet you’ve never seen Jesus Christ worshipped as an infant before, have you? That is what makes this church so special. In the Infant Jesus Church in Bengaluru, Jesus Christ is worshipped as an infant, and what a beautiful sight that is. The foundation for this church was laid on 8th April, 1969 by Reverend Dr. S. Lourdusamy, the then Archbishop of Bengaluru. In its initial years, the church stood in the form of an old tent, which was famously known then as the Tent Church. It lasted for over eight years. The new church which you see today, was inaugurated on 9th June, 2005. It can accommodate about 2500 people and has an opening which runs all around the church. The interiors have been so designed so as to allow the people to face the altar, irrespective of where they are seated.

• Jesus Christ infant statue

Head to the Most Famous Churches in India

20. Gangadeshwara Temple – Astrophysical brilliance!

Try visiting the Gangadeshwara Temple on the occasion of Makar Sakranti, and you will be treated to a visual spectacle that is backed by amazingly accurate scientific knowledge, architectural brilliance and astrophysics. On this occasion, a ray of light flashes through the horns of the stone bull outside the temple and falls directly on the deity inside the cave, thereby illuminating it. This phenomenon can be observed on the 14th and 15th of January every year. Built during the reign of Kempe Gowda I, it consists of a moon, sun disc monoliths, stone umbrella, Shivalinga and three cave passages. Other features of the temple which evoke admiration are the pillars built in Vijayanagara style, statues of doorkeepers to the cave and the Shivling, which is the presiding deity.

• Massive discs
• Objects associated with Lord Shiva
• Doorkeepers to the cave
• Shivling – the presiding deity

These are the 20 best places to visit in Karnataka that you can visit with your friends and family, and are great for exploration and sightseeing. Let us know how many of these have you visited or intend to visit in the comment box below.

In case, you want us to plan your holiday in Karnataka , give us a call on +91-8744012050 or drop an email at [email protected]. We at Tour My India design some of the best holiday packages in India and abroad.

About Vishwajit Sharma

Writing, for me, is an artistic expression of the countless thoughts flooding my mind. For now, travel content writing is what keeps me going! In my spare time, I like nothing better than immersing myself in a book, along with a cuppa! A classic movie helps too! I define traveling as a process of self-discovery. Hailing from Darjeeling, my ultimate desire is to escape to the hills, with the mountain air and solitude as my constant companions!

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• Top 14 Lakes In Bangalore: Find Your Favorite Spots To Create Perfect 2024 Memories!

23 Mar 2023

If activities like boating, bird watching, jogging tantalize your senses and you are in search for a destination offering the same, then Bangalore welcomes you. Bangalore is blessed with a number of lakes and welcomes everyone seeking a refreshing and memorable vacation. Majority of lakes in Bangalore are well maintained and act as a perfect retreat for families who wish to spend quality time with each other. You can discover lots of joy by delving into various water activities.

While on a tour to Bangalore, do spare your time to visit the amazing lakes that the city has to offer.

Top 14 Lakes In Bangalore

The listicle below is aimed to guide you explore 14 popular lakes in Bangalore for unlimited fun and leisure:

• Madiwala Lake
• Ulsoor Lake
• Hebbal Lake
• Lal Bagh Lake
• Varthur Lake
• Hesaraghatta Lake
• Kengeri Lake
• Sankey Tank
• Nagavara Lake
• Kaikondrahalli Lake
• Bellandur Lake
• Puttenahalli Lake
• Jakkur Lake

1. Madiwala Lake

Image Source

Spread over an area of 114.3 hectares, Madiwala Lake is one of the largest lakes in Bangalore. The lake is maintained by the Karnataka State Forest Department and is blessed with incredible beauty. While visiting Madiwala Lake in Bangalore , you should discover fun by engaging yourself in numerous activities including photography, strolling around lake, bird-watching and lots more. Children engage themselves with different activities while adults enjoy a pleasant and calm environment.

Location: Bannerghatta Main Road, BTM 2nd stage, Bangalore Visit Timing: 05.00 AM to 09.30 PM, all days. Boating: 10.00 AM to 06.30 PM, all days. Fees: INR 5/- per person (for Adult) & INR 2/- per kid (for Kids).

Must Read: The 10 Best Illuminating Museums To Visit In Bangalore

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2. Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake, sprawled over 50 acres, is another exciting place where visitors love to access and enjoy nature up close. As one of the largest and oldest lakes in the region, Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore is invigorated with lush green surroundings including islands, and trees. Visitors can engage with a number of activities with boating being the best choice. Ulsoor Lake is also blessed with a children’s play area. While visiting Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore , you can grab an opportunity to splurge at several places like Church Street, Commercial Street, and Indiranagar.

Location: Near MG Road, Bangalore Visit Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Wednesday closed) Boating: NA Fees:  Free

Suggested Read: 17 Most Popular Temples In Bangalore To Visit For A Spiritual Retreat

3. Hebbal Lake

Commissioned in the year 1537 by Kempe Gowda, Hebbal Lake is another splendid place that welcomes a large number of visitors and lets them experience total rejuvenation by beholding its ravishing surroundings. Spread over 150 acres, Hebbal Lake is a one-stop destination for those who enjoy watching different species of migratory birds. Capturing such birds through a camera is a wonderful experience that exhilarates photographers. Visitors enjoy an incredible view of sunset and sunrise. Boating is another exciting activity that makes you feel relished.

Location: 13 km away from the Kempe Gowda Bus Stand, Bangalore Visit Timing: 7:00 Am to 8:00 PM, any day Boating: NA Fees: INR 10/- per person

Suggested Read: 35 Places To Visit In India In December 2022 

4. Lal Bagh Lake

Located inside the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, it’s one of the must-visit places for visitors. Considered the best lake in Bangalore , it is beautified with lush green trees and flowers that make it a green and pleasant location; a paradise for photographers. Lal Bagh Lake is also popular as the hottest tourist spot for the bird watchers as a lot of migratory birds do visit the place. Whether you are couples or visiting with families, you will find this lake perfect and best suitable for all.

Location: Mavalli, Bangalore Visit Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM everyday (for public), from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM (for pedestrians). Entry Fees: INR 10/- per person and free for children below 12 years of age. Flower Shows’ Fees: INR 40/- per person.

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5. Agara Lake

On the course of your journey to Bangalore, you will come across a scenic lake called the Agara Lake which is blessed with stunning natural beauty. The flamboyant surrounding and the glimpse of a panoramic view of the Agara Lake are something that’s enough to mesmerize the minds of visitors. Joggers Park located near this best lake in Bangalore is another reason which entices the visitors a lot. Sprawled over 98 acres, Agara Lake also features a statue named Children-Globe-Rooster.

Location: Agara Village, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bangalore Visit Timing: 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM (Monday to Saturday) and Sunday from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM Entry Fees: Free Boating: NA

Suggested Read: 20 Monsoon Getaways Near Bangalore For A Scenic Escape

6. Varthur Lake

As one of the man-made lakes in Bangalore , Varthur Lake serves its sole purpose of existence to maintain balance in the ecosystem and catering to farming related needs. Not to mention, it’s a major tourist hub and, witnesses the gathering of lots of visitors. The pleasant view of Sunset and Sunrise remains an adorable aspect for everyone, especially photographers.

Location: Varthur, Bangalore Visit Timing: NA Entry Fees: NA Boating: NA

Suggested Read: 29 Enthralling Spots For Camping Near Bangalore That Are Worth A Visit In 2022!

7. Hesaraghatta Lake

Sprawled over an area of 1,000 acres, Hesaraghatta Lake is another hotspot in Bangalore which is explored by nature-lovers. Hesaraghatta Lake is referred to as a small bird sanctuary that houses different species of birds such as Bush Larks, Bulbuls, and Myna. The exotic beauty of this lake accompanied by its lush green surroundings lets you get rid of the stress level.

Location: 18 km to the north-west of Bangalore Visit Timing: Early morning hours Entry Fees: NA Boating: NA

Suggested Read: 12 Amusement And Water Parks In Bangalore That Are Ideal For 2022 Summer Vacay!

8. Kengeri Lake

Spend some quality time with your family and create fantastic memories that you can preserve for the whole life. Sprawled over 25 acres, Kengeri Lake is the most happening place for boating, while rejuvenating in a pleasant environment. Apart from boating, this lake is blessed with other facilities as well like the islet, recreational area, kid’s play zone, and many more.

Location: Kengeri Satellite Town, Bangalore Timing: Any time Entry Fees: Free Boating: NA

Suggested Read: An Off The Charts Honeymoon To Bangalore, Mysore, And Coorg

9. Sankey Tank

Nestled in Malleswaram West, Sankey Tank is another man-made lake in Bangalore. It welcomes families to discover unforgettable moments with each other. It also draws the attention of couples who can witness a romantic environment and scenery, especially during sunset. Nature lovers, on the other hand, can engross themselves into the stunning surroundings with birdwatching.

Location: Kodandarampura, Malleshwaram, Bangalore Visit Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM Boating Time: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM Entry Fees: INR 10/- per Adult & INR 5/- per Children Boating Fees: INR 20/- per person

Suggested Read: A Family Road Trip From Bangalore To Paris: A Drive To Remember!

10. Nagavara Lake

Covering a total area of 44 hectares, Nagavara Lake, located at the Outer Ring Road, is one of the appealing and unique destinations that catches the attention of people to a wider extent. The pleasurable surrounding of this stunning lake consists of Lumbini Gardens, and a Leisure Park. Nagavara Lake is known for its fantastic beauty and lets you soak into the magnificent beauty of nature.

Location: Nagavara, Hebbal, Bangalore Timing: 6 AM – 7 PM Fees: Free entry Boating: NA

Suggested Read: Bangalore’s Heli Taxis Will Fly You To & Fro The Airport From This Week

11. Kaikondrahalli Lake

Image Credit: Ravichandra for Wikimedia Commons

Sprawled in an area of 48 acres, Kaikondrahalli Lake is an urban lake that used to be a dump-yard earlier. It is a spoon-shaped lake that is surrounded by residential areas. This lake attracts many birds and animal species due to its serenity. You can spot herons, frogs, fishes, white-throat kingfishers, spot-billed kingfishers, and many other species. It has turned out to be a popular spot for birdwatching now which has turned Kaikondrahalli Lake into one of the famous lakes in Bangalore .

Location: Kaikondrahalli Lake Trail, Bengaluru, Karnataka Visit Timing: NA Boating: NA Fees: Free

Suggested Read: Here’s The Perfect Guide To Reap The Best Nightlife In Bangalore In 2022

12. Bellandur Lake

Image Credit: Sultan Khadar for Wikimedia Commons

When talking about the largest lakes in Bangalore , one cannot forget about Bellandur Lake. It is home to many animals & birds and is located in a perfect setting. Some of the birds that can be spotted here are wood pigeons, cobras, monitor lizards, parakeets, kingfishers, and more. This is a perfect place to unwind in the evening and admire the beauty of nature. Do not miss out on sunset at this place.

Location: Belur Nagasandra, Bellandur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560103 Visit Timing: 10 am – 6 pm Boating: NA Fees: NA

Suggested Read: 16 Best Night Clubs In Bangalore To Explore In 2022

13. Puttenahalli Lake

Image Credit: SlowPhoton for Wikimedia Commons

The next one on the list of lakes in Bangalore is Puttenahalli Lake which covers about 13 acres of area. The main sources of this water body are surface water and rain. It was on a blink of extinction before it converted into a haven for nature lovers. The lake witnesses about 80 species of birds including purple heron, Indian pond heron, common kingfisher, and spot-billed duck. This is the reason why birdwatchers often visit this lake and so must you.

Location: Arekere MICO Layout Main Rd, Puttenahalli, JP Nagar 7th Phase, near MLR Convention Hall, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076 Visit Timing: NA Boating: NA Fees: Free

Suggested Read: 20 Offbeat Places Near Bangalore That Cherish Your Weekend Delights In 2022

14. Jakkur Lake

Image Credit: Manu Mohan for Wikimedia Commons

Spread in an area of 160 acres, Jakkur lake is another one of the famous lakes in Bangalore . The lake was originally built to meet the requirements of people in Jakkur Village. But, it has now turned into a bird place as it is swarmed by several species, especially in the migratory season. Moreover, the fish population has also increased in the lake which has attracted more and more birds over the years. You can easily spot pelicans at this lake.

Location: Agrahara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064 Visit Timing: NA Boating: NA Fees: Free

Further Read: Go Karting In Bangalore: 13 Spots To Visit And Play An Ultimate Challenge In The City In 2022!

The above-mentioned list has just a few glimpses of the lakes in Bangalore. The city, however, is home to a plethora of other lakes as well. They are equally famous among tourists. You can plan your trip to Bangalore and get ready to explore this beautiful city. Also, Bangalore experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, so exploring the city would be a wonderful experience.

Disclaimer : TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lakes In Bangalore

How many lakes are there in Bangalore?

Bangalore is blessed with around 189 lakes, spread throughout the city.

Which is the biggest lake in Bangalore?

Sprawled over the total area of 114.3 hectares, Madiwala Lake in Bangalore is the largest lake in the city.

Which river flows in Bangalore?

Though Bangalore houses a number of lakes, no major rivers flow in this city. Meanwhile, the River Kaveri and Arkavathi merge close to Mekedatu.

What is Bangalore famous for?

Apart from housing, a large number of lakes, the capital city of Karnataka is popular as a major IT hub and home to well-known corporates operating from this city.

Which is the coldest month in Bangalore?

Well, December is the coldest month in Bangalore. So, if you are seeking to explore the city and its lakes during this month, then plan accordingly for your trip.

What is Bangalore’s famous food?

Bangalore is famous for many South Indian dishes such as Idlis, Dosas, Vadas, Rolls, Kebabs, Chaat and Pani Puri.

Is Bangalore safe to travel?

Of course, Bangalore is one of the safest cities in India, with less crime rates and safe for everyone. The city is known for having a liberal attitude and also provides special treatment for both men and women. Meanwhile, you need to be always careful to ensure your safety.

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Top 5 Best Tourist Places in Karnataka

The expansive array of attractions within Karnataka’s tourism portfolio appeals to a diverse range of visitor preferences and desires. Highlighting the top best tourist places in Karnataka, we have the regal Mysore Palace, picturesque Coorg Hill Station, historically significant Hampi Heritage Site, enthralling Gokarna Beach and the imposing Jog Falls. These represent just a slice of what one can experience in this dynamic state through other equally mesmerizing locations such as Nandi Hills which continue to captivate our valued guests. It is mainly known for its Heritage sites, hills and Wildlife habitat. The city also stands out with its malls, multiplexes, parks, lakes, gardens, cafes, bars, palaces, museums, and other attractions. I tried my best to include the most famous tourist places in Karnataka. I hope you like these places during your visit to the state.

Coorg Hill Station​

Coorg is excellent for a short getaway in Karnataka, lies 1525m above sea level. The hill station is quite known for its coffee plantations, and a favored summer retreat to the state. The fascinating landscape and the green hills in Coorg are perfect for trekking and camping options, Coorg is the place to be for all nature lovers. It also attains a popular destination tag because of its culture and people. 

A local clan(Kodavas) specialized in martial arts and distinguished for their keen hospitality. Foggy hills, green forest, tea and coffee plantation, orange copses, surging streets, and breathtaking landscapes have made Coorg an exceptional holiday destination. Madikeri is the heartland of the Coorg area and was the seat of the ruling dynasty. Other famous hill stations are Nandi Hills, Chikmagalur, Shimoga, Ramnagaram, Agumbe, BR Hills, Kudremukh, and Kotagiri.

Ideal Trip Duration : 1-2 days Nearest City : Mysore Best Time to Visit : October-March Great For : Hiking, trekking, cycling, visiting waterfalls and touring tea and coffee plantations.

Mysore is one of the oldest cities and the second largest in Karnataka. It is one of the very few cities that has managed to maintain its old-world charm, well known as the City of Palaces. It has numerous tourist attractions that include impressive palaces, heritage structures, museums, temples, gardens, etc. Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hill Temple are the most popular places to visit in Mysore and due to this reason, we have also included this place in the best tourist places in Karnataka.

According to ancient story in the mythological Devi Purana, Mysore was dictated by the demon-king Mahishasura. He was called Mahishasura because he was a buffalo-headed beast. Hence, this place came to be known as Mahishuru, which later became Maisuru and Mysore.

The Mysore Kingdom, ruled by the Wodeyar family was initially served as a servant state of the Vijayanagara Empire. After the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire, the control of Mysore moved into the hands of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan between 1761 and 1799. After the death of Tipu Sultan in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, then the control was given over back to the Wodeyar family.

The nearest airport is in Bangalore, around 184 km from Mysore. It has frequent flights from Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Goa, Mangalore, and Thiruvananthapuram. Mysore has also pleasant weather throughout the year, though October to March is the best season to visit. It usually takes about 2 full days to visit the all-important places in Mysore.

Ideal Trip Duration : 1-2 days Best Time to Visit : October to March Great For : Sightseeing

Gokarna Beach​

Gokarna is a small and less populated town situated in the north Kannad district of Karnataka. It is around 150 km from the Vasco Da Gama airport and around 60 km from the Karwar rail station. This place is of the best tourist places in Karnataka and one of the offbeat destinations in South India due to its peaceful ambiance.  Your trip surely will be incomplete without a visit to the famous Mahabaleshwara temple and Om beach. Gokarna is just like a Goa. The beaches in this town are fantastic and perfect for a day out in the sun. You can also indulge in a few water sports at the beaches. 

The main attraction of the Gokarna is the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which houses the Atmalinga. Gokarna has considered being the Mukti Sthala, where Hindus perform funeral rituals. Followers visit the Gokarna temple in large numbers during Mahashivratri and Kartika Purnima festivals. The whole town gets decorated during the four days of the Mahashivratri festival.

Apart from being a spiritual town, Gokarna appreciated for its beaches. You will find beautiful beaches nearby, which have small shacks serving as accommodation along with many small shops and modern eateries. The five famous beaches are Om, Kudle, Gokarna, Half Moon, and Paradise Beaches. Among the beaches in Gokarna, the Om beach is usually popular among surfers. The beach gets its name due to the natural formation of the holy Om symbol.

Ideal Trip Duration:  1 Complete Day Nearest City:  Hubli (around 165 Kms) Best Time to Visit Gokarna:  October to March Great For:  Beaches, Sightseeing, and Adventure Sports

Hampi is one of the renowned  UNESCO World Heritage Site . It has located at a distance of 340 km from Bangalore and around 377 km from Hyderabad. The place is also home to many historical sites and the Vijayanagar Empire. The Nearest airport is Hubli, about 74 km. It is one of the best tourist places in Karnataka which you should not miss during your South India tour. The popular tourist spots are the Hampi Bazaar area and the Royal center near Kamalapur.

Hampi is an extremely famous place in terms of history and architecture. Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and an integral part of the Empire in 1500AD. They had created a large army to protect it from other kingdoms. In addition, Hampi grew as a trade center for cotton, spices, and gemstones. It was one of the richest and largest cities in the world during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Ideal Trip Duration:  1-2 Days Best Time to Visit :  September to March Places to Explore : the Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill and the Achyutaraya Temple Great For : Shopping, Sightseeing

Chikmagalur​

Chikmagalur means The Land of the Younger Daughter. The nearest airport is Mangalore, at a distance of 158 km from Chikmagalur. If you love the fragrance of freshly fermented coffee in the mornings, then you are going to love this place, which has a perpetual smell of coffee lingering in the air. Chikmagalur is at an altitude of 3400 feet in the foothills of Mullayangiri Range in Karnataka. Above all, it is also renowned for high mountains, dense green forests, and its peaceful environment.

This hill state in Karnataka is very well known as the Coffee Land of Karnataka. It is the place where coffee did cultivate for the first time in India. A Muslim saint Baba Budan who brought coffee seeds from Yemen around 1600 year. Later, during the Europeans came to India, they took control over the plantations and started selling coffee and tea.

In addition, Many festivals celebrated in Chikmagalur for instance Ganesha Chaturthi, Deepavali, Ugadi, Dusshera. The climate of Chikmagalur is pleasant throughout the year.

Ideal Trip Duration : 1-2 Days Nearest City : Mangalore (around 148 Kms) Best Time to Visit : Throughout the year Great For : Relaxed Holidays, Nature Trails, touring tea and coffee plantations

Travel Tips for Karnataka​

Apart from the above top 5 tourist places, there are many other places which you can include in your itinerary like Udupi, Murudeshwar, Bandipur National Park, Shivanasamudra, and Jog Falls. I have created a list of good Karnataka tourist places, add as many as in your Karnataka’s itinerary. 

You can visit Karnataka throughout the year, but the winter months from September to February are the best season to visit. You can also see this from a different perspective, it is the busiest season, and hotels/resorts are expensive this season. Another thing, Karnataka is also safe for domestic & foreign tourists. People are here very progressive, you probably will start to like them in just a few days.

Do not forget to try Karnataka (Kannada) food/sweet dish. Some famous Kannada recipes are Korri Gassi, Davangere benne dosa, Neer Dosa, Mysore Pak, Pandi Curry, Bisi Bele Bhat, Haalbai And Huggi, Dharwad Peda, Chiroti, Raagi mudde. You can also take away some of the sweet dishes back to your home.

It usually takes at least 4-5 days to visit the top tourist places of Karnataka. It is difficult to cover all the places but you can start plan your itinerary with the best Karnataka places and then add more nearby places to it. I hope you will enjoy reading this post and it helps you to plan your Karnataka trip.

How to Plan 3 days trip in Karnataka?

Navigating through the most illustrious tourist destinations within Karnataka in 3 days trip can be daunting yet exhilarating. Your preferences and expectations will ultimately determine how much pleasure you derive from your visit to Karnataka. As an experienced travel planner, I have carefully curated a three days itinerary for your visit to Karnataka. This plan is tailored towards individuals residing outside the state, assuming that they possess adequate funds for air or rail travel expenses. For natives of Karnataka or those living within the state’s boundaries, the advantage remains in being able to better customize this schedule and maximize their efficient use of these three days.

• Commence your journey by boarding a flight heading directly toward Mysore Airport. On the first day of your trip, mark Mysore Palace as your first stopover; its proximity to the airport ultimately contributes to saving time while allowing ample room for exploration. Enhance the richness of experience by immersing yourself in local culture via visits to nearby locales or marketplaces.
• On following sunrise, start early towards Coorg Hill station using available options like cabs or trains; quite renowned for its calming waterfalls and an envelopment of mist-enhanced landscapes ideally suited for tranquility seekers. Seek comfortable accommodation there overnight.
• Chikkamagaluru is the final destination on day 3rd at Karnataka Tour. Inhabitants known popularly for stunning scenic beauty forming background tapestry behind coffee plantations thriving amidst trekking trails. A National key-point Mangalore houses nearest airport approximately located 158 km away facilitates easy transportation.

Caution – This might seem hectic due principally limited time rounding unique place variety. Yet planning 3 days Karnataka Trip without visiting most population-proclaimed places is nearly impossible. After all remember journey comprises primary memories over destination. So continue cherishing every movement retain traveling spirit alive irrespective environmental dispositions.

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Top Tourist Places in Karnataka in 2024

Explore the vibrant tapestry of Karnataka’s tourist attractions with our comprehensive guide. From the lush greenery of Coorg to the historical wonders of Hampi, Karnataka boasts many captivating destinations waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the Western Ghats or serenity along the serene beaches of Gokarna, our curated list highlights the best places to visit in Karnataka. Plan your next getaway and immerse yourself in the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating history this diverse state offers.

As the tagline of Karnataka tourism boldly proclaims, “One State, Many Worlds,” Karnataka indeed presents a plethora of diverse experiences. Being my home state, I have developed a profound affection for Karnataka. There are numerous compelling reasons why I hold such deep admiration for this state. Below, I’ve outlined the top 10 reasons Karnataka deserves a coveted spot on every traveller’s bucket list.

Page Contents

PIN for later reference – Top Tourist Places in Karnataka

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

About Karnataka

Formerly recognized as the State of Mysore, Karnataka is a prominent state in southern India. Established on November 1, 1956, the state underwent a renaming to Karnataka in 1973. With 31 districts under its jurisdiction, Karnataka ranks as the sixth-largest state in India. The etymology of Karnataka’s name has sparked various theories, with the most widely accepted one suggesting its derivation from the words ‘karu’ and ‘nadu,’ signifying elevated land.

Karnataka boasts a diverse landscape, encompassing dense forests and hosting the world’s largest technology hub. Catering to every type of traveller, the state presents a wealth of experiences. Despite my extensive exploration within Karnataka, I continually unearth discoveries. Moreover, Karnataka stands out as one of the safest states in India for solo female travellers. In this article, I’ll unveil the top tourist destinations in Karnataka.

Fun fact: Did you know that approximately 16% of Karnataka’s land area is blanketed by forests?

Quick Fact Sheet of Karnataka

• Official Language : Kannada.
• Capital City : Bengaluru / Bangalore.
• Kannada Rajyotsava (State Holiday) : 1 November.
• Best Time to Visit : October to March.
• Days Required : Two to three weeks.
• State Animal : Indian elephant.
• State Bird : Indian roller.
• State Flower : Lotus.
• State Tree : Sandalwood.
• Art Work : Chittara Painting .

Best Time to Visit Karnataka

Karnataka experiences the full spectrum of seasons:

• Winter: December to February.
• Summer: March to May.
• Monsoon: June to August.
• Post-monsoon and Spring: September to November.

While travel is enjoyable year-round in Karnataka, the period between October and March typically offers pleasant and dry weather, making it ideal for exploration. However, visiting hill stations during the summer months can also be enchanting. I find travelling during the monsoon season, particularly to the Western Ghats , incredibly captivating as the mountains come alive with lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.

Number of Days Required to Travel Around Karnataka

Karnataka is a substantial state, ranking as the eighth largest in India, with a total land area spanning approximately 191,791 square kilometres. Exploring this vast expanse and experiencing some of its spectacular sights requires a significant amount of time, ideally two to three weeks. However, even with this duration, you’ll only begin to scratch the surface of all that Karnataka has to offer.

Transportation in Karnataka

• By Air – Karnataka boasts two international airports in Bengaluru and Mangaluru, along with eight domestic airports in Mangaluru, Belgaum, Hubli, Hampi, Bellary, Gulbarga, and Mysore .
• The railway network spans approximately 3000 kilometres, seamlessly linking significant cities and towns. For the latest train schedules and information, travellers can refer to the IRCTC website.
• Buses, managed by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) alongside private operators, offer convenient transportation options. Whether by driving or utilizing KSRTC-operated buses, exploring Karnataka is best facilitated through these reliable modes of travel.

About Bangalore

Formally recognized as Bengaluru, Bangalore serves as the capital city of Karnataka state. Despite being the world’s largest technology hub, Bengaluru maintains its reputation as the Garden City and City of Lakes.

For those with just one day to explore Bangalore, consider referring to my comprehensive one-day itinerary in Bangalore .

How do you get to the Capital City, B angalore?

• Consider checking out Makemytrip and Skyscanner for competitive prices and options.
• Bengaluru enjoys excellent connectivity via national highways, featuring well-maintained roads that facilitate easy access into the city. However, it’s important to note that these roads typically require toll fees for usage. So, be prepared to pay toll fees when travelling on the national highways into Bengaluru.

By Public Transport

• Bengaluru boasts robust connectivity through buses and trains, with key train stations like Majestic and Yelahanka serving as main transportation hubs. For the latest information on train schedules, IRCTC is the go-to website, while Redbus provides up-to-date information on bus routes and timings.

UNESCO Sites in Karnataka

Karnataka proudly houses two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the monuments at Hampi and Pattadakal. These destinations hold immense popularity, particularly among history and culture enthusiasts. The monuments and temples found here are nothing short of extraordinary, boasting stunning architectural marvels that captivate visitors with their beauty and historical significance.

Regions and Districts in Karnataka

Geographical regions.

Three distinct regions predominantly characterize Karnataka’s geographical landscape:

• Coastal Karnataka, encompassing Karavali and Tulu Nadu.
• The Western Ghats, known as Malenadu.
• The Deccan Plateau is referred to as Bayaluseeme.

The Deccan Plateau, which includes Bengaluru, constitutes the most significant portion of the state.

Divisions and Districts

The state is administratively divided into four divisions comprising 31 districts. Each of these districts is home to numerous cities and towns with unique heritage and cultural identity. Governed by ziladars, these districts are subdivided into talukas, each overseen by talukdars.

Kitturu Karnataka or Belagavi Division

The Kitturu Karnataka, also known as the Belagavi division, consists of seven districts, with Belgaum serving as its capital:

• Uttara Karnataka

Bangalore and Surrounds

Over the years, Bangalore has experienced significant growth, including several outlying districts in the Bangalore division.

• Bangalore Urban.
• Bangalore Rural.
• Chikkaballapura.
• Chitradurga , previously known as Farkhabad during the Tipu Sultan era, is a city famous for its fort and is located on the valley of River Vedavati.
• Ramanagara.

Also, Read Isha Foundation in Chikkaballapura

Kalyana Karnataka

Previously recognized as the Gulbarga division, the Kalyana Karnataka division comprises seven districts.

• Kalabuargi.
• Vijayanagara, presently known as Hampi, stands as a fortified city that served as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Renowned for its captivating ruins and monuments, Hampi draws visitors from far and wide to explore its rich historical heritage.

Mysore and Surrounds

The final division is the Mysore division, centered around the city and surrounding areas. This division encompasses eight districts in total.

• Chamarajangara.
• Chikkamangaluru is known for its mountains, national parks and coffee. The city of Chikkamangaluru within the district is located on the foothills of the Western Ghats.
• Dakshina Kannada.
• Coorg or Kodagu.
• Mysore , nestled at the foothills of Chamundi Hills, is renowned for its iconic Mysore Palace and the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam.

Also, Read Satyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary

Top Tourist Places in Karnataka

Bangalore or bengaluru.

Renowned by various monikers like the City of Lakes and the Information Technology (IT) capital, Bengaluru, or Bangalore, it serves as the capital city of Karnataka. This bustling metropolis is highly favoured, with over 50% of its population as immigrants. Offering a diverse array of attractions, Bangalore is a vibrant and inclusive city, catering to all tastes and preferences.

Top 3 places to see:

• Bangalore Fort
• Tipu Sultan Palace
• Bangalore Palace

Number of days required: 3 to 4 days

Best time to visit: November to March

Mysore and Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna and Mysore are situated a mere 150 kilometres from Bangalore. Mysore, famed for its majestic Mysore Palace and vibrant Dasara festival, rests at the base of Chamundi Hill. Adjacent to Mysore, Srirangapatna , once a natural island, exudes historical charm.

• Mysore Palace
• Tipu Sultan’s Fort
• Sri Nimishamba Temple

Best time to visit: July to February

Formerly the capital city of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi was a fortified city renowned for its grandeur. Today, its monuments stand as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, albeit in ruins, following destruction by the Mughals.

• Sri Virupaksha Temple
• Hazara Rama Temple
• Anjanadri Betta

Number of days required: 3 days

Best time to visit: November to February

Coorg and Madikeri

Often referred to as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg or Kodagu is a picturesque district nestled amidst the slopes of the Western Ghats. This region’s breathtaking landscapes and scenery captivate visitors with its natural beauty. Madikeri, a popular tourist destination, is situated within the Coorg district.

Stay at Coorg? You can consider one of the beautiful homestays in Coorg – PK Ponnappa’s Court .

Reputable travel agencies offer reliable options for travellers seeking tours to Coorg from Bangalore. Opting for established agencies is remarkably advisable for solo female travellers, ensuring safety and peace of mind.

• Omkareshwara Temple
• Abbey Falls
• Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple

Number of days required: 3 to 4 days. Check out the places that can be covered in Coorg in just two days .

Best time to visit: September to June

Sakleshpura

Renowned for its lush tea and coffee estates, Sakleshpura is a charming hill station within the Western Ghats region. Personally, Sakleshpura holds a special place in my heart as one of my favourite destinations in Karnataka, with its enchanting landscapes and delightful weather.

• Manjarabad Fort
• Bisile Ghat Viewpoint
• Sri Bettada Bhairaveshwara Temple

Number of days required: 2 to 3 days

Coastal Karnataka

Blessed with stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes, Coastal Karnataka stretches along the scenic coastline of the Arabian Sea. Also known as Tulunadu, this region is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, including traditional dances such as Yakshagana and Bhoota Kola.

Mangalore, or Mangaluru, stands as a prominent port city along the shores of the Arabian Sea, serving as a vital commercial hub in Karnataka. Renowned for its abundance of coconut trees and delectable cuisine, Mangalore also prides itself on being one of the safest cities in India.

• Kadri Manjunatha Temple
• Mangaladevi Temple
• St. Aloysious Chapel

Best time to visit: October to February

Udupi and Manipal

Renowned for its 13th-century Krishna Temple, Udupi holds significant religious importance for Hindus, boasting a plethora of ancient temples. The coastal city’s name, “Udupi,” translates to “the land of the lord of the stars ,” referring to the moon. Adjacent to Udupi lies Manipal, a vibrant university town just 5 kilometres away.

• Sri Krishna Temple
• Corporation Bank Heritage Museum
• Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum

Number of days required: 2 days

Best time to visit: June to September

Murdeshwara

Renowned for hosting the world’s second tallest Lord Shiva statue, Murdeshwara is a picturesque coastal town nestled along the Arabian Sea, earning the title of Karnataka’s scuba diving capital. While in Murdeshwara, travellers can also explore the offbeat destination of Honnavar , adding depth to their journey.

Top 3 places to see/do:

• Murdeshwara Temple with Lord Shiva Statue
• Scuba Diving at Netrani Island
• Water Sports at Murdeshwara Beach

Gokarna, another serene coastal town, offers an ideal setting for a relaxing getaway. The name “Gokarna” translates to “cow’s ear,” stemming from a folktale in which Lord Shiva, the town’s main deity, is said to have emerged from the ear of a cow. Known for its offbeat charm and laid-back atmosphere, Gokarna is a favourite among youngsters and backpackers.

• Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple
• Mirjan Fort

Number of days required: 2 days in Gokarna .

Best time to visit: October to March.

Also, Read Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve

Forests of Karnataka

Bandipur national park.

Bandipur National Park , doubling as a tiger reserve, boasts Karnataka’s second-highest population of tigers. This sprawling park is also a proud member of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

Best time to visit: March to September

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Boasting abundant wildlife, including the elusive black panthers, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination. With its dense forests and thrilling activities like white water rafting, Dandeli is a town that promises an unforgettable experience.

Best time to visit: October to May

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary , nestled in the Chikkamagaluru district, is a tiger reserve and offers the highest probability of encountering tigers and leopards in their natural habitat. This sanctuary is a haven for diverse wildlife, including sloth bears, langurs, barking deer, civet cats, giant squirrels, and many others.

The Western Ghats

Also referred to as Sahyadri, the Western Ghats are a majestic mountain range that runs along the edge of the Deccan Plateau and the Malabar coast of the Arabian Sea. In Karnataka, these mountains stretch from Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary to Mangalore. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Western Ghats are renowned for their scenic trekking trails and rich biodiversity.

Best time to visit: October to March

Looking for some easy one-day treks? Here are 14 Best One-Day Treks from Bangalore .

Beaches and Waterfalls of Karnataka

Among the eight blue flag-certified beaches in India, Karnataka proudly hosts two. Kasarkod Beach in Honnavar and Padubidri Beach in Udupi hold this prestigious certification. Karnataka boasts approximately 30 beaches, with Panambur Beach in Mangalore ranking among the top 10 beaches in the state . Renowned for its cleanliness and safety measures, Panambur Beach stands out as a favourite destination for beach enthusiasts.

Karnataka boasts an abundance of waterfalls, with over 500 cascades standing at least 10 meters tall. These majestic waterfalls offer a mesmerizing sight, especially during the monsoon season. Jog Falls in Shimoga district stands out as the most renowned. Other notable waterfalls include Shivanasamudra , Iruppu, and Abbey Falls.

Also, Read Sree Someshwara Temple near Shivanasamudra

Bucket List Accommodation in Karnataka

Cintacor island resort , karwar.

Did you know that Karnataka is home to its very own island resort? That’s right! You don’t need to travel to the Maldives to experience the luxury of staying at an island resort or swimming in an infinity pool. Right here in Karnataka, in the beautiful town of Karwar, lies the Cintacor Island Resort .

Click here to book your stay at Cintacor Island Resort on Agoda

This magical place offers breathtaking views of the ocean and unforgettable sunsets. Having enjoyed staying there, I can attest that it’s a standout destination. I highly recommend adding a stay at Cintacor Island Resort to your bucket list of experiences in Karnataka.

Jungle Lodges Resort (JLR)

Managed by the Government of Karnataka, Jungle Lodge Resorts (JLR) offers an unparalleled experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled amidst sanctuaries and national parks, these resorts provide an extraordinary opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of Karnataka’s natural landscapes.

Click here to book your stay at Jungle Lodges Resort on Agoda

Orange County , Kabini

One of my personal favourite properties is Orange County in Kabini . Exuding luxury and opulence, Orange County is situated on the picturesque banks of the River Kabini near Nagarhole National Park.

Click here to book your stay at Orange County in Kabini on Agoda

This 5-star hotel offers visitors an experience transcending expectations, transporting them to unparalleled indulgence and tranquillity.

Red Earth Kabini

Nestled in the serene village of Begur, Red Earth Kabini stands as a charming retreat along the picturesque Kabini backwaters. This delightful 3-star resort promises a cozy and inviting haven for its guests, ensuring a memorable stay amidst nature’s tranquility.

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Farms To Visit Near Bangalore Chiguri Farm in Kanakpura Akshayakalpa Farm Chukki Mane Farm

Strelitzia Villas , Luxury Homestay in Chikkamagaluru

If you seek a fairy tale setting and luxurious accommodations, look no further than Sterlitzia Villas in Chikkamagaluru . Offering spacious villas adorned with beautiful décor, this homestay stands out as a haven of comfort and elegance.

Click here to book your stay at Strelitzia Villas in Chikkamagaluru on Agoda

Karnataka’s Dance Form

Yakshagana , originating in Udupi, is a distinctive dance form of Karnataka, particularly prominent in Coastal Karnataka. This art form combines elements of dance, drama, elaborate costumes, and music to create a captivating performance. Typically, 15 to 20 artists participate in the act, showcasing their skills and talents. Throughout Karnataka, there are numerous venues where one can witness the spectacular display of this traditional dance.

Is Karnataka Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Karnataka is one of the safest states for travellers in India, with its friendly and hospitable people who readily assist female travellers in need. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings, especially during nighttime. Avoid venturing out after dark, as Karnataka is home to a significant wildlife population, including tigers and leopards, which may pose potential risks.

Closing Notes

Karnataka is a diverse state that offers something for every traveller, from picturesque beaches to majestic mountains. Its natural beauty and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination in India. I highly recommend exploring Karnataka at least once in the southern part of India to experience its charm and allure firsthand.

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13 Awesome Places to Visit in Karnataka

by middha on July 11, 2018

Karnataka is a state that is blessed with varied landscapes. On one hand you have the coast and on the other side are rivers and lakes. Beautiful landscapes and a welcoming hospitality have made Karnataka a popular tourist destination in India.

The state has many places to explore and enjoy tourist activities. While all of them are good, there are a few places that stand out. Here is our guide to the best places to visit in Karnataka.

Popular Tourist Places in Karnataka

1. bangalore and nandi hills.

A historic building in Bangalore

From a trendy nightlife to shopping, adventure sports and sightseeing, in Bangalore you have a lot to do and see.  There are nice places to see near Bangalore too, one of them is the Nandi Hills. The hills are frequently visited by adventure sports lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Trekking is a popular pastime activity at the Nandi Hills.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Places to Explore: Cubbon Park, Commercial Street, Bull Temple, Malleswaram, Lalbagh Botanical Garden
• Great For: Sightseeing, Nightlife, Adventure Sports

The Golden Temple, Coorg

Coorg is excellent for a short getaway in Karnataka. The hill station is well known for its coffee plantations that are great for exploring. The exotic scenery and the lush hills in Coorg are ideal for trekking. There are some great places to see too and you can enjoy delicious yummy local food in Coorg.

• Best Time to Visit:  October and March
• Places to Explore: Namdroling Monastery, Talakaveri Temple, Mallalli Falls, Talakaveri
• Great For: Trekking, Nature Walks

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its ancient temples and ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire. Being a small city, Hampi can be explored in a day. You can either walk or choose to go on a cycle to tour the city.

In Hampi, you can shop for handmade bags, leather crafts and musical instruments, too.

• Best Time to Visit:  September to March
• Places to Explore: the Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill and the Achyutaraya Temple
• Great For: Shopping, Sightseeing

Mysore Palace

Mysore is a city entrenched in royal history and it is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka. The city is blessed with stunning temples and enthralling buildings and there is a lot of opportunity for sightseeing in Mysore.

The city is also great for shopping, with lovely local products. On the outskirts of Mysore is the Chamundeshwari Temple, an ancient temple that has cultural connections with Mysore.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Places to Explore: Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple
• Great For: Sightseeing

Gokarna is Karnataka’s answer to Goa. The beaches in this town are fantastic and great for a day out in the sun. You could choose to laze around or indulge in a few water sports at the beaches.

There are ancient temples to see, too. The place is well connected by road and rail to important places in Karnataka and Goa, so getting here is pretty easy.

• Best Time to Visit:  October to March
• Places to Explore: Om Beach, Mahabaleshwara Temple, Mirjan Fort
• Great For: Beaches, Sightseeing, Adventure Sports

6. Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur

If you need to escape the city life, we suggest packing your bags and heading out to Chikmagalur. A haven of relaxation, the weather is nice for most parts of the year and the lush green surroundings set the right note for adventure sports. If you love coffee or long walks, visit one of the pristine coffee plantations in Chikmagalur.

• Best Time to Visit: September to April
• Places to Explore: Manikyadhara Falls, Kudremukh
• Great For: Relaxed Holidays, Nature Trails

Other Tourist Places in Karnataka

7. st. mary’s islands (coconut island).

St. Mary’s Islands

Beautiful and scenic, the St. Mary’s Island near Udupi is a nice place for a holiday, the place is a haven of peace and quiet. The beach on the island has pristine white sand, gorgeous rock formations and sky-blue sea. There are a few local shops selling food and other necessities, besides this, there is nothing much on the island.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Places to Explore: The Beach
• Great For: Relaxed Holidays

8. Nagahole National Park

A Bison at the Nagahole National Park

The Nagahole National Park is a large wildlife reserve in Karnataka. This place is home to many wild animals and plants. The best way to explore is by embarking on the jeep safari that is held daily. There is also a small section in the park that is often used for trekking.

• Best Time to Visit: August to January
• Things to do: Go on a jeep safari
• Great For: Trekking

Belur is a great place to explore in Karnataka. The town is home to amazing temple and constructions with traces of typical Indian architecture. Most of the temples in Belur were constructed during the reign of the Hoysala Empire. Although the town was attacked my Mughals, most of the temples still remain intact to this day.

A must visit the site in this town is the Belur Temple Complex, this is where the main temples in Belur are situated.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Things to do: Temple spotting

10. Halebid

Halebid is located close to Belur and is yet another temple town in Karnataka. The main temple in Halebid is the Hoysaleswara Temple.

The unique feature of this temple is that it has two shrines on one platform. Most temples in Halebid are beautiful constructions with excellent artwork and inscriptions.

• Best Time to Visit: October  to March

11. Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar

Located on the south coast of Karnataka, Murudeshwar is a beach town. Here you can see the second largest Shiva statue in the world. The coastal town is noted for its temples and architecture as well.

Other major attractions in Murudeshwar are water and adventure sports and beaches. There is also the Murudeshwar Fort to explore.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Things to do: Adventure Sports, Temple Spotting  

Kabini offers tourists a unique wildlife experience. Besides spotting a variety of wildlife species, at Kabini, you can enjoy adventure sports as well. Boating, river rafting and elephant rides are three popular adventure sports that one can enjoy at Kabini.

• Places to Explore: Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Kabini Dam
• Great For: Sightseeing, Wildlife Excursions

13. Dandeli

Dandeli is a haven for adventure sports in Karnataka. The place offers tourists magnificent water sports facilities. In the waters of Dandeli, you can enjoy rafting, boating and canoeing down thrilling rapids. The place is also great for sightseeing, nature trails and wildlife spotting. There is a crocodile park in Dandeli as well as a lake where you can fish.

• Places to Explore: Crocodile Park Kali River
• Great For: Sightseeing, Watersports

These places complete our list of the best tourist places to see in Karnataka. Do you agree with us on this list? Would you add in some places or hidden gems that are yet to be explored? We would love to know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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20 Top Places in Karnataka You Must Explore

To cumulate the wonderful charm of Karnataka in a few words, it would be a solo state with many worlds. Like other top state destinations, including Rajasthan, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Himachal Pradesh, with maximum tourist footfall, there are the best places in Karnataka worth visiting. 

This southern Indian state welcomes visitors to explore its stockpile of attractions, including the breathtaking natural beauty, rich historical culture, and holy places, during their stay in any of its top spots. Today, we bring you the checklist of those top 20 places in Karnataka that would drive you to pack your bags and embark on the journey to explore this southern state of India. 

Top 20 places in Karnataka you must visit

1. murudeshwar.

Murudeshwar is one of the best places in Karnataka to visit. It is famous for its Shiva statue in a sitting position, which is the second tallest statue in the world. For your information, the figure stands at 123 ft tall. This is an ideal place for all Shiva devotees. 

Top tourist attractions in Murdeshwar

• Murudeshwar Temple
• Murudeshwar Fort
• Netrani Island
• Murudeshwar Beach
• Bhatkal Beach

Activities to explore

• Scuba diving
• Visiting pilgrimage sites
• Tasting local food
• Beach strolling

2. Bangalore

The following top tourist destination to explore is Bangalore. To reach this place, there are the best hotel in Bangalore to plan for your luxury staycation. The capital of Karnataka is also called the Silicon Valley of India and the Garden City of India. The weather here is perfect, and you can enjoy watching the beautiful lakes and parks and spotting white tigers at Bannerghatta National Park.

Top tourist attractions in Bangalore

• Church Street
• Bangalore Palace
• Bannerghatta National Park
• Nandi Hills
• Cubbon Park
• Vidhana Soudha
• Taking part in Go-Karting
• Shopping at UB City Mall and MG Road
• Visiting Jawarharlal Nehru Planetarium
• Boat ride at Ulsoor Lake
• Enjoy drinks at numerous breweries

3. Chikmagalur

The next best place in Karnataka that is worth visiting is Chikmagalur. This place is famously called the ‘’Coffee Land of Karnataka’’ because of the coffee plantations you will see here. Nestled at the foothills of Mullayangiri Range, Chikmagalur is a beautiful retreat for wildlife lovers and those who love visiting hill stations.

Top tourist attractions in Chikmagalur

• Baba Budangiri
• Mullayanagiri
• Kudremukh National Park
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hebbe Falls
• Coffee plantations
• Touring Coffee Museum
• Visiting National Coffee Research Centre
• Touring Kudremukh National Park
• River rafting at Bhadra River

Like Rajasthan, famously called the Land of Kings, Mysore in Karnataka is also a place to hear the valour stories of Tipu Sultan, famously called the ‘Tiger of Mysore’ and of other rulers. There are many temples, historical sites, and majestic palaces in Karnataka. The other major attractions for which the city is famous include Mysore Pak, Silk, and Sandalwood.

Top tourist attractions in Mysore

• Brindavan Gardens
• Mysore Palace
• Somanathapuram Temple
• Shopping for Mysore silk sarees and sandalwood
• Enjoying an open Jeep safari
• Tasting the famous Mysore Pak sweet
• Attending yoga classes
• Spending a picnic at Karanji Lake

Belur in Karnataka is the best place to visit for its beautiful temples from the historical era of the Hoysala empire. This place is situated on the banks of river Yagachi in the Hassan district, Karnataka and is a must-visit for all history enthusiasts. 

Top tourist attractions in Belur

• Chennakeshava Temple
• Kappe Chennigaraya Temple
• Veera Narayana Temple
• Gravity Pillar
• Visiting holy temples
• Enjoying a boating experience at Yagachi Dam
• Shopping for souvenirs at local markets
• Tasting the local food
• Exploring spectacular engravings at Halebidu temple

If you are looking for beach fun with your partner or friends, come to Udupi, the coastal town in Karnataka, popular with its amazing beaches, forests and beautiful ancient temples. Besides this, you must also attend dining at a local Udupi restaurant to enjoy eating vegetarian food. 

Top tourist attractions in Udupi

• Malpe Beach
• St. Mary’s Island
• Krishna Temple
• Delta Beach
• Enjoying at Udupi beaches
• Visiting the Coin Corp Museum
• Exploring Anejari Butterfly Camp
• Experiencing peace at temples
• Tasting the famous Udupi cuisine

7. Srirangapatna

When coming to explore Karnataka tourism, Srirangapatna must also be on your travel checklist. This small town is located near River Cauvery in Karnataka. It is famous for being the historical capital of braveheart Mysore warrior commander Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan. 

Top tourist attractions in Srirangapatna

• Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
• Nimishaambha Temple
• Dariya Daulat Bagh
• Balmuri Falls
• Tipu Sultan Fort
• Karighatta Temple
• Having an excellent picnic fun at Dodda Ghosai Ghat
• Shopping at the local market
• Exploring the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
• Tasting the local cuisine

Shimoga in Karnataka is a famous tourist attraction for watching spectacular waterfalls and scenic landscapes. Since the weather here is mostly pleasant throughout the year, this gives you a reason to explore this so-called backpacker’s paradise. There are many historical places here that you must visit. 

Top tourist attractions in Shimoga

• Bhadra River Dam
• Honnemaradu
• Dabbe Falls
• Trekking at Kundadari
• Touring at Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari
• Visiting Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
• Watching elephants at Sakrebailu Elephant Camp

9. Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola is a famous sacred pilgrimage place for people who follow Jainism. You will see a 57-metre-tall Gomateshwara Bahubali statue nestled between Vindyagiri and Chandigiri hills. 

Top tourist attractions in Shravanbelagola

• Gomateshwara Bahubali Temple
• Chandragiri Hill Temple
• Bhandari Basadi Temple
• Akkana Basadi Temple
• Vindhyagiri Temple
• Belagola Pond
• Visiting the famous Gomateshwara Bahubali Statue
• Experience peace at holy temples, including Chandigiri Hill Temple

10. Dandeli

Dandeli is one of the top tourist places in Karnataka to experience river rafting fun. Located north of Sahyadris, the place will amaze you with its lovely lush green forest view and watch the wild animals, including bison and black panthers. The site is a perfect retreat for adventure lovers and escaping from the city’s hustle and bustle. 

Top tourist attractions in Dandeli

• Kali Tiger Reserve
• Magod Falls
• Ulavi Temple
• Moulangi Falls
• Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kavala Caves
• Sykes Point
• Enjoy river rafting
• Rock climbing
• Enjoy the Coracle boat ride at River Kali

Exploring Karnataka tourism without Badami is not possible. The site listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage Site is worth visiting to explore its sandstone monuments. If you find visiting the old monuments and discovering the archaeology fascinating, Badami must be on your travel bucket list. 

Top tourist attractions in Badami

• Cave Temples
• Agastya Lake
• Badami Fort
• Badami Museum
• Visiting the Archaeological Museum
• Sightseeing
• Touring Bhutanatha Temple

12. Bijapur

The history of Bijapur traces back to the ancient era of the Kalyani Chalukyas empire when it was called Vijaypura. One of the major attractions here is the monument, Gol Gumbaj. It is even referred to as the Taj Mahal of Deccan. It is a historical place to take your kids for a picnic.

Top tourist attractions in Bijapur

• Ibrahim Rauza
• Jamia Masjid
• The Citadel
• Gagan Mahal
• Mithari and Asar Mahals
• Touring Saath Kabar
• Visiting Bara Kaman
• Experiencing the bird’ eye view of the city from Upli Burj

13. St. Mary’s Island

The first island where Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama set foot in India was St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka. This island includes four islands: Coconut Island, North Island, Daryabahadurgarh, and South Island. You will be seeing consistent ferry rides on this island from Udupi. 

Top tourist attractions on St. Mary’s Island

• Daryabahadurgarh Fort
• Delta Beach Backwaters
• Vadabhandeshwara Temple
• Maris Church
• Experience beach fun
• Collecting shells from the beach

The mention of Agumbe will bring back your nostalgic memories of the Malgudi Days television series. This small village in Karnataka attracts tourists for its rich biodiversity. But more than that, it is next to Cheerapunji in Meghalaya, with the highest rainfall. This is why it is also called Cheerapunji of South India. 

Top tourist attractions in Agumbe

• Koodlu Theertha Falls
• Sunset Point
• Onake Abbi Falls
• Gopala Krishna Temple
• Kunchikal Falls
• River rafting at Sita River
• Doing photography from Sunset Point
• Visiting lowland rainforests

15. Mangalore

How can Mangalore go unnoticed when listing down the top places in Karnataka? Besides Bengaluru, this city is a unique tourist place in the latter southern state. Encircled by the Arabian Sea on one side and Sahyadris on the other, Mangalore comes as an excellent haven for beach lovers. The sights of palm trees and the fresh, cool sea breeze will make you crave more enjoyment. 

Top tourist attractions in Mangalore

• Panambur Beach
• Kudroli Temple
• St Aloysius Chapel
• Kadri Manjunath Temple
• Ullal Beach
• Playing golf at Gold Course and Pilikula Park
• Experience solitude and peace at multiple temples
• Visiting Sultan Battery for a fantastic view

Hampi, also called Hampe, is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka and comes under a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At this place, you will discover the ruins of the ancient Vijaynagar Empire. There are 500 ancient monuments and temples that you will find in this small village of Karnataka. The rich historical significance makes Hampi a worthwhile visit. 

Top tourist attractions in Hampi

• Virupaksha Temple
• Vithala Temple
• Lotus Palace
• Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple
• Elephant Stables
• Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
• Watching the Monolith Bull
• Cliff jumping
• Taking a Coracle ride

If you are willing to take a long break from your restless work life, visit Coorg, one of the famous hill stations in Karnataka. Although it is officially known as Kodagu, you can also call it by its commonly spoken name. Nestled between the splendid mountains in Karnataka, it attracts tourists for its misty landscapes all year. 

Top tourist attractions in Coorg

• Abbey Falls
• Raja’s Seat
• Coffee Plantations
• Namdroling Monastery
• Iruppu Falls
• Visiting coffee plantations
• White river rafting at Barapole River
• Tasty Coorgi Chicken

18. Gokarna

Gokarna in Karnataka is a famous place that cannot go unnoticed. The site attracts tourist footfall with palm trees, golden sand, and clean blue seas. It was recognised as a Hindu shrine, but now it has become more popular with beaches. 

Top tourist attractions in Gokarna

• Mahabaleshwara Temple
• Kudle Beach
• Paradise beach
• Enjoying water sports
• Visiting holy pilgrimages
• Explore Mirjan Fort
• Beach trekking
• Dining out at Namaste Cafe

19. Chitradurga

Surrounded by rocky boulders, Chitradurga is a famous tourist spot in Karnataka known for its forts, rivers, caves, and forests. Also known as Chitrakaladurga, it is 200 kilometres from Bengaluru. At Chitradurga, you can view the archaeological wonder of the Chalukya era. 

Top tourist attractions in Chitradurga

• Gayatri Jalashaya
• Chitradurga Fort
• Himavat Kedaya
• Ankali Mutt
• Vani Vilas Sagar Dam
• Canoeing in the river
• Banana boat rides

20.  Sakleshpur

If you want to experience a memorable vacation at a hill station with your partner, Sakleshpur in Karnataka is the right choice. Encircled by Sahyadris, this beautiful hill town is a perfect destination for adventure activities like hiking and walking across the dense forests. 

Top tourist attractions in Sakleshpur

• Agni Gudda Hill
• Kukke Subramanya Temple
• Bisle Reserve Forest
• Manjehalli Waterfalls
• Sakleshwara Temple
• Visiting Hemavathi Dam
• Doing trekking to Jenukal Gudda and Pandavar Gudda
• Exploring Raxidi estate
• Spending a luxurious stay at Machaan Plantation Resort

So these are the top 20 places in Karnataka worth visiting when planning for a long-term break or short weekend from a rigorous work life. All the places in Karnataka have something to offer visitors: finding peace in temples, exploring historical monuments, forts, and palaces, or enjoying adventure sports like river rafting or trekking. 

With all the given brief facts about the places, our main intention was to give you a rough idea about the tourist spots that deserve your attention. Rest you will have to explore yourself. If you wish to visit Bangalore, you can book your stay at jüSTa Indiranagar, Bangalore , jüSTa MG Road, Bangalore , or jüSTa Off MG Road, Bangalore .

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10 Best Places to Visit in Karnataka in January

• Updated on December 3, 2023
• January , Karnataka

Karnataka, a land of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is a traveler’s delight. From the mist-covered hills of the Western Ghats to the ancient ruins of empires long gone, this southern state of India offers a myriad of experiences. January, with its pleasant weather and post-monsoon freshness, is an ideal time to explore Karnataka’s beauty.

The air is cool and comfortable, perfect for wandering through historical sites or enjoying nature’s bounty. January in Karnataka is a tapestry of vibrant festivals and diverse landscapes, from misty hills to ancient ruins. This blog explores 10 must-visit destinations, each a unique fusion of nature, culture, and history, perfect for discovering Karnataka’s multifaceted charm in January.

Table of Contents

Karnataka Weather in January

In January, Karnataka welcomes visitors with its mild and pleasant climate, perfect for exploring. Expect cool mornings, warm afternoons, and minimal rainfall, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities across the state. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Temperature: January in Karnataka sees temperatures varying from a crisp 15°C in hill stations like Coorg and Chikmagalur to a pleasant 30°C in other regions, offering cool nights and comfortably warm days perfect for exploring the state’s diverse landscapes.
• Climate: January falls in the winter season in Karnataka. The climate is generally dry with minimal rainfall, resulting in clear skies and sunny days. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Regional Variations: Coastal areas like Mangalore and Udupi experience slightly higher temperatures and humidity compared to the interior regions. In contrast, places in the Western Ghats, such as Agumbe, receive cooler weather.
• Clothing Recommendations: Light woolens are advisable for the evenings and early mornings, especially in the hill stations. For daytime activities, light and comfortable cotton clothing is suitable.
• Best Activities: This is a great time for wildlife safaris in places like Bandipur and Nagarhole National Parks, beach visits in Gokarna, cultural tours in Mysore and Hampi, and trekking in the Western Ghats.
• Festivals: January also hosts several cultural festivals, adding to the appeal of visiting Karnataka during this month. The pleasant weather complements the festive atmosphere.

Overall, January’s weather in Karnataka is conducive to a wide range of tourist activities, making it a popular time for visitors.

List of the Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Karnataka for January:

1. coorg – the scotland of india.

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Coorg , often referred to as the Scotland of India, is a picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. As you drive through the winding roads, the aroma of coffee from the surrounding plantations fills the air, instantly uplifting your spirits.

Key Attractions

• Abbey Falls: A spectacular waterfall that cascades down from a height of 70 feet amidst lush green coffee plantations and spice estates.
• Raja’s Seat: A scenic spot offering panoramic views of the rolling hills and verdant landscapes, especially enchanting at sunrise and sunset.
• Coffee Estates: Explore the vast coffee estates, learn about the coffee-making process, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup.

Read More: Top 10 Destinations to See and See in Coorg .

January Special

January is a festive time in Coorg, with the harvest festival, Puthari, in full swing. The locals, dressed in traditional Kodava attire, engage in dance and music, making it a culturally enriching experience.

Read Also: When to Visit Coorg: A Guide to the Best Time to Plan Your Trip

Travel Tips

• Stay: Opt for homestays to experience authentic Coorgi hospitality.
• Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local specialties like Pandi Curry (pork curry) and Akki Roti (rice roti).
• Adventure: Trekking enthusiasts can explore trails like Tadiandamol and Brahmagiri.
• 5 Days Coorg Bangalore Kabini Trip
• 4 Days Coorg & Mysore Tour
• Coorg Package for 3 Days

2. Hampi – The Ancient Wonder

The ruins of Hampi , a UNESCO World Heritage site, tell the tale of the grand Vijayanagara Empire. This historic city, set amidst rocky terrains and boulder-strewn landscapes, is a living museum, where each ruin has a story to tell.

Historical Perspective

Once the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is a testament to the opulence and craftsmanship of ancient Indian architecture. The city’s ruins are spread over 16 square miles and include more than 1,600 surviving remains of the last great Hindu kingdom in South India .

Must-See Sites

• Virupaksha Temple: A vital pilgrimage center and an architectural masterpiece, this temple dates back to the 7th century.
• Vittala Temple: Famous for its extraordinary stone chariot and musical pillars.
• Lotus Mahal: An elegant structure that showcases a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

Read Also: Top 12 Destinations to Visit Around Hampi You Must See

January Experience

The cool weather in January makes it ideal for exploring the vast expanses of Hampi. The sunlit temples and monuments stand in stark, majestic contrast against the clear blue skies, perfect for photography.

Read More: What is the Best Time and Season to Visit Hampi

Insider Tip

If your visit coincides with the Hampi Utsav , usually held in January, you’ll witness the city come alive with music, dance, drama, and processions, capturing the essence of its glorious past.

• 3 Nights 4 Days Hampi Tour
• 3 Days Hampi Temple Trip

3. Gokarna – A Serene Beach Haven

Gokarna , nestled along Karnataka’s coastline, offers tranquility with its serene beaches and spiritual essence. A peaceful counterpart to Goa’s lively shores, this quaint temple town is a sanctuary for those seeking solace by the sea.

Comparative Angle: Gokarna vs. Goa

Gokarna stands in serene contrast to Goa’s bustling vibe, offering tranquil beaches and a relaxed ambiance. Ideal for nature lovers, it’s a serene retreat for rejuvenation and connecting with nature’s quiet beauty.

Beach Guide

• Om Beach: Shaped like the auspicious ‘Om’ symbol, this beach is ideal for a peaceful stroll or a dip in the Arabian Sea.
• Kudle Beach: A favorite among backpackers, known for its scenic beauty and sunset views.
• Half Moon Beach: Accessible only by a hike or boat, this secluded beach offers a perfect escape from the crowd.
• Top 10 Places to See in Gokarna
• 5 Things to Do and See in Gokarna

January Activity

The moderate January climate is excellent for beach trekking and exploring the coastal trails connecting the various beaches. Dolphin-watching tours are also popular during this time, offering a chance to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

Stay Options

Choose from a range of beachside cottages or opt for a yoga retreat to enhance your Gokarna experience. The town is also known for its spiritual vibe, with several meditation and yoga centers.

• 3 Days Gokarna & Jog Falls Trip
• 2 Days Gokarna Trip Package

4. Mysore – The City of Palaces

Mysore , Karnataka’s cultural jewel, is celebrated for its majestic Mysore Palace and rich royal legacy. With its intricate architecture and preserved history, the city is a gateway to exploring India’s splendid regal heritage.

Cultural Insight

Mysore, once the capital of the Wodeyar dynasty, is synonymous with grand palaces, sacred temples, and majestic gardens. The city’s art and architecture reflect its glorious history and royal lineage.

Main Attractions

• Mysore Palace: An architectural marvel with grandeur and elegance, especially enchanting when illuminated on Sundays and special occasions.
• Chamundi Hills: Offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the famous Chamundeshwari Temple.
• Brindavan Gardens: Known for its symmetrically laid-out terrace gardens and an enchanting musical fountain show.

Read More: 10 Most Famous Places to See in Mysore

January Highlight

January’s cool climate is perfect for exploring Mysore’s outdoor attractions. The city is less crowded, allowing for a more leisurely experience.

Mysore Pak, a rich sweet made of ghee, sugar, and gram flour, is a must-try. Also, sample traditional Kannada dishes at local eateries.

Mysore Itinerary: 5 Nights 6 Days Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Travel Package

5. Chikmagalur – The Coffee Land

Chikmagalur, nestled in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, is famous for its coffee plantations and serene environment. It’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers and coffee enthusiasts.

Personal Story

Imagine waking up to the aroma of fresh coffee amidst the lush greenery. Chikmagalur, often referred to as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’, offers just this experience, making it a paradise for coffee lovers.

Attractions

• Mullayanagiri: The highest peak in Karnataka, offering breathtaking views and trekking opportunities.
• Baba Budangiri: Known for its shrine and the origin of coffee in India.
• Coffee Tasting Tours: Learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the best brews.

Read More: 10 Best Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

January Advantage

The post-monsoon greenery in January makes Chikmagalur especially beautiful. The weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for trekking and exploring the plantations.

Local Experiences

Staying in homestays amidst coffee plantations offers an authentic experience. Don’t miss out on the local Malnad cuisine, known for its spicy and rich flavors.

• 7 Days Karnataka Trip Package
• 7 Days Karnataka & Kerala Tour
• 6 Days Karnataka with North Kerala Trip
• 3 Days Karnataka Jain Temple Tour
• 3 Days Kabini Wildlife Safari Trip
• 3 Days Hassan Temple Tour

6. Bandipur National Park – A Wildlife Adventure

Bandipur National Park , nestled in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is an acclaimed sanctuary for tigers, offering immersive encounters with India’s diverse and majestic wildlife.

Wildlife Focus

Bandipur National Park’s rich wildlife, home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species, offers a thrilling and memorable experience, particularly the rare sight of a tiger in its natural habitat.

Safari Experience

• Timings and Zones: Choose from morning or evening safaris. Each zone offers a different experience in terms of wildlife and landscape.
• Wildlife Spotting: Apart from the big cats, look out for the Indian bison, chital, and langurs.

January is an excellent time for birdwatching, with migratory birds adding to the park’s avian diversity. The cooler weather also makes wildlife spotting more comfortable and enjoyable.

Accommodation Tips

Opt for jungle lodges or resorts around Bandipur for a complete wildlife experience. These stays often organize guided safaris and nature walks.

Bandipur Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Bandipur National Park Trip Itinerary

7. Udupi – The Temple Town

Udupi is revered for its ancient Krishna Temple and is known for its religious and cultural significance. This town also serves as the birthplace of the famous Udupi cuisine.

Spiritual Journey

The centerpiece of Udupi is the Sri Krishna Temple , known for its unique idol of Lord Krishna and the ‘Kanakana Kindi’ – a small window through which the deity is believed to have given darshan to his devotee, Kanakadasa.

Cultural Aspects

If you’re visiting in January, you might witness the Paryaya Festival, a grand event where the temple management is handed over to the next Paryaya Swamiji. This festival, held every alternate year, is marked by a colorful procession and various religious rituals.

Food Section

Udupi is synonymous with vegetarian cuisine. Restaurants here serve delicious dishes like dosas, idlis, and the famous Udupi sambar. Don’t miss out on the authentic temple food offered as ‘prasadam’.

Nearby Attractions

• Malpe Beach: A beautiful beach with a serene atmosphere, perfect for a day trip.
• St. Mary’s Island: Known for its distinctive geological formation of basaltic lava.

Read More: 10 Popular Tourist Destinations to Visit in Udupi

8. Badami – The Rock-cut Splendor

Badami , once the regal capital of the Chalukya dynasty, is renowned for its rock-cut cave temples and red sandstone cliffs. It’s a destination that takes you back in time to the era of early Indian architecture.

Historic Tale

Badami is notable for its four cave temples, each representing a blend of Hindu and Jain religious themes. These caves are carved out of sandstone hills and are considered an architectural marvel of ancient India.

Must-Visit Sites

• Cave Temples: Each cave temple, dedicated to various Hindu gods and Jain Tirthankaras, is an epitome of ancient Indian art and architecture.
• Badami Fort: Offers a panoramic view of the town and its ancient structures.
• Agastya Lake: Surrounded by temples and caves, this tranquil lake adds to the beauty of Badami.

Read More:  7 Most Famous Tourist Places to See in Badami

January Benefit

The cooler weather in January is conducive for exploring the outdoor sites in Badami, which otherwise can be quite exhausting in warmer months.

Travel Advice

Hiring a local guide is recommended to fully understand the historical and architectural significance of the sites in Badami.

9. Dandeli – For the Adventure Enthusiasts

Dandeli, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a hotspot for adventure sports and wildlife enthusiasts. The Kali River and dense forests offer a plethora of activities for thrill-seekers.

Adventure Narrative

Experience the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting on the Kali River, a highlight for many visitors. The river’s varying rapids make it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

Activities Galore

• Jungle Safari: Explore the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary to spot exotic wildlife.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Navigate the calm waters of the Kali River.
• Bird Watching: The region is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with numerous species inhabiting the forests.

January Plus

The water levels in the Kali River during January are ideal for rafting and other water-based activities. The pleasant weather also makes camping under the stars a delightful experience.

Dandeli offers various accommodation options, from jungle camps to comfortable resorts, catering to all preferences and budgets.

10. Shivanasamudra Falls – The Majestic Waterfalls

Shivanasamudra, one of Karnataka’s most spectacular waterfalls, offers a breathtaking view as the Kaveri River cascades down rocky cliffs. It’s a perfect blend of nature’s grandeur and tranquility.

Scenic Description

Shivanasamudra is a segmented waterfall with multiple streams dropping over a cliff. The surrounding greenery and the roar of the falls create a mesmerizing and rejuvenating environment. The falls are divided into two main segments – the Bharachukki and the Gaganachukki Falls.

• Bharachukki Falls: This is the most voluminous of the two falls and offers a spectacular view. Boating is available here during the non-monsoon months.
• Gaganachukki Falls: Best known for its horseshoe shape, the Gaganachukki is a majestic sight. There are viewpoints here that offer splendid views of the waterfall.

January Tip

January is a great time to visit as the monsoon-fed waterfalls are still full, but the surrounding areas are more accessible. The weather is also conducive for picnics and long walks in the area.

• Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: A short drive from Shivanasamudra, this bird sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with several species of migratory birds visiting during January.
• Talakadu: Known for its submerged temples and the legend of a curse, Talakadu is an interesting historical site nearby.

Karnataka, with its rich diversity, offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether it’s the historical grandeur of Hampi, the serene beaches of Gokarna, the wildlife experiences in Bandipur, or the majestic beauty of Shivanasamudra Falls, each destination promises a unique and memorable experience. January’s delightful weather and lively festivals set the stage for exploring Karnataka’s treasures. Pack your bags for a journey that promises to reveal the splendid heart of this diverse and culturally rich Indian state.

Explore More: Monthly Travel Guides for Karnataka:

• Tourist Places to Visit in Karnataka in February
• Karnataka Travel in March for Best Destinations
• Visit Karnataka for Best Places in July
• Karnataka Destinations to See in August
• Places for Karnataka Visit in September
• Karnataka Tourist Places See in October
• Travel in Karnataka Best Places in November
• Karnataka Places to Visit in December

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

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Weekend Getaway: 5 Peaceful Green Destinations for Your Next Weekend Trip

U sually, we wait for the weekends to feel free, unwind and give time to ourselves. It is suggested that weekends should be used for recreational activities like spending time in nature, watching movies at the cinema, or just lounge around un your pyjamas. However, another way to relax on your off days is to travel and we have compiled a list of five places you should visit to be in the lap of nature and just chill.

5 Places To Visit On A Weekend

1. coorg, karnataka.

It is known as the "Scotland of India" for its misty hills, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. You can trek through the rainforest, visit spice gardens, or find a cosy homestay with stunning views.

Must-visit places in Coorg, Karnataka:

• Abbey Falls : A stunning waterfall within a coffee plantation, providing a refreshing and picturesque spot for a picnic or a quiet stroll. 
• Raja's Seat : A garden with tiered flowerbeds offering panoramic views of the valleys of Coorg. Perfect for enjoying those gorgeous sunsets. 

2. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is a hill station with tea plantations and mountains. You can hike through the scenic landscapes or enjoy boating on a serene lake.

Must-visit places in  Munnar, Kerala:

• Eravikulam National Park:   Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat) and shola grasslands, this park is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. 
• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate:   The highest tea estate in Munnar, Kolukkumalai offers not just stunning views of the tea plantations but also opportunities to witness the sunrise over the plains below.  

3. Shillong in Meghalaya

The third place on our list is the beautiful hill station of Shillong. It is known for its beautiful hills, pine forests, waterfalls, and pleasant climate.

Must-visit places in  Shillong:

• Ward's Lake : A heart-shaped lake surrounded by gardens and walking paths. 
• Lady Hydari Park : A sprawling botanical garden with a diverse collection of orchids, roses, and ferns.  

4. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

A charming hill station that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, the fourth place on our list with the colonial charm and serene atmosphere is Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh.

Must-visit places in  Dalhousie:

• Panch Pulla : A picturesque spot with five cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. 
• Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary : A haven for nature lovers, this sanctuary boasts diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan black bears.

5. Nainital, Uttarakhand

The last place on our list is a popular hill station known primarily for its beautiful lake and weather, Nanital.

Must-visit places in  Nainital:

• Naini Lake : The heart and soul of Nainital, this pear-shaped lake offers picturesque boat rides, providing a tranquil experience amidst the mountains. 
•   Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat) : A scenic spot accessible by a short trek or a cable car ride. It offers panoramic views of the Naini Lake and the surrounding hills.

For more on lifestyle, astrology and health from around the world please visit  Indiatimes Lifestyle.