SOTC Blog

Karnataka is one of the most loved tourist destinations in the country and continues to attract travellers from across India and the world, all year round. Whether you are looking to take short one day trip to Karnataka or spend a week unwinding and relaxing, it has something for everyone. What sets Karnataka apart is its unique geographical location with a long coastline, rivers and lakes, giving you the opportunity to do unique things in Karnataka. Eventful and glorious history, expansive landscape, awe-inspiring architectural wonders and wildlife – Karnataka has it all. Here are the 10 best places to visit in Karnataka.

Hampi and Badami Rocks
Any trip to Karnataka is incomplete without a visit to these ancient ruins and the spectacular forts, temples, sculptures and inscriptions. Their history dates back to the Kishkinda and Vijaynagar empires. There are many small green hilltops with tiny temples at the peak. When in Hampi, make sure to visit the Vitthala Mandir.
Badami is famous for its unique style of architecture in temples, and sculptures and should be a must see thing during your Karnataka travels.

Aihole and Pattadakal Monuments
Karnataka tour packages usually include a visit to this temple complex that came into existence under the patronage of the Chalukya kings in the 7th-8th centuries. Today, this place is a UNESCO heritage site. The group of monuments comprises architectural wonders such as Virupaksha Temple, Sangameshwara temple, Papanatha temple, Mallikarjuna temple and Shivayoga temple.
In Aihole, you can see nearly 120 Hindu and Jain monuments built between the 4th and 12th centuries.

Coorg and Chikmaglur Coffee Plantations
South India is renowned for its aromatic and strong coffee. If you are a coffee aficionado who has always wanted to learn how coffee is grown, then one of the most exciting places to visit in Karnataka will be the coffee plantations of Coorg, and Chikmaglur, which is a famous hill station on the Western Ghats. It is not just the plantations but the lush greenery, winding forest roads and peaceful environment that will make your trip worthwhile.

Related Read: Best time to visit Coorg

Belur and Halebidu
These two places were part of the Hoysala Empire (11th-14th centuries). The reason tourists are drawn to Belur and Halebidu is the presence of Chennakeshava temple and Hoysaleswara temple, which are examples of the Hoysala architecture. The vast temple complexes and the intricate, minute details on the sculptures continue to astound the tourists.

Haveri and Gadag District
This districts house some of the most majestic and magnificent temples, such as Kudal Sangameswar Temple, Mylara Lingeshwara Temple, Chaudayyadanapura Mukteshwara temple, Gajendragad Kalkaleshwara temple and Lakkundi Jain temple spread out over a tranquil and serene landscape interspersed with rivers and dotted with small lakes.

Gokarna and Karwar Beach
These beaches bordering the Arabian sea are unique. They are the right mix of rocky terrain and beautiful green nature. Try out the famous seafood cuisine and take a walk to the nearby ancient temples. If you are lucky, you may get to experience the festivals or carnivals, which might just become the highlight of your tour.

Kudremukh and Malayyanagiri Peak
Malayyanagiri, a hill in the Kudremukh range of the Western Ghats, is the highest peak of Karnataka. If you are an adventure entusiast, Kudremukh trekking should be on your list. This mountain range with an extensive forest cover is also a protected wildlife zone; hence, you may also catch a few glimpses of animals in their natural habitat.

Bidar Fort and the Tomb at Bijapur
Bidar Fort is a must-visit location for tourists. This medieval fort city dates back to the 15th century and houses many Islamic monuments from the Bahamanid Dynasty. In Bijapur, another historical city is the famous Gol Gumbaz- a mausoleum constructed to commemorate Mohammed of Adil Shah.

Jog Falls and Shivasamudram Falls
These two waterfalls are among the most searched tourist spots in India. Jog Falls is the second-highest waterfall in India and presents an overwhelming yet stunning sight. The Shivasamidram Falls are just as spectacular and draw a fair share of tourist footfall.

Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks
These two national parks are among the most iconic wildlife preservation sites in India. Many endangered species, such as the bee-eater, changeable hawk-eagle, gaur, darter, dholes and tuskers have found safe haven here. You can opt for a safari ride through these forests and learn more about these wondrous creatures and their lifestyles.

The best time to visit Karnataka is during winter and spring when the temperature is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. Karnataka is one of the most exciting places one can visit. Your Karnataka tour package itinerary will include a long list of activities and you will not have to endure even a moment of boredom. SOTC also offers multiple Coorg tour packages and Mysore tour packages along with travel tours to various parts of India.

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