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Karnataka Tour Packages

Why to buy tour packages for karnataka .

• Local Expertise and Itinerary Planning: Karnataka tour packages are designed by travel experts who possess in-depth knowledge of the state's attractions, transportation options, and logistics. They craft well-planned itineraries that consider the challenges faced by travelers, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable trip. For example, a package might include visits to popular destinations like Mysore, Hampi, and Coorg, taking into account transportation connectivity and time efficiency.
• Hassle-Free Transportation and Connectivity: Karnataka is a vast state with diverse landscapes and destinations. Navigating through the transportation infrastructure and ensuring connectivity between different regions can be challenging. With a Karnataka tour package, transportation arrangements, including transfers between cities, are taken care of. This eliminates the stress of arranging transportation independently and ensures seamless connectivity between various attractions.
• Local Guides and Cultural Insights: Karnataka tour packages often include the services of knowledgeable local guides who provide insights into the state's culture, history, and traditions. They can bridge the language gap, offer local perspectives, and enhance the travel experience. For instance, a guide can explain the significance of the ancient ruins in Hampi or the architectural marvels of Halebidu and Belur.
• Convenience and Time Efficiency: Planning a comprehensive trip to Karnataka individually can be time-consuming and challenging due to the state's diverse offerings. A Karnataka tour package provides convenience and time efficiency as all the logistics, including accommodations, transportation, and sightseeing, are taken care of. This allows travelers to make the most of their time and focus on enjoying the destinations rather than dealing with logistics.
• Safety and Support: Reputable tour operators prioritize the safety and well-being of their customers. They have established safety protocols and support systems to address any unforeseen situations or emergencies. This ensures that travelers can explore Karnataka with peace of mind, knowing that they have professional assistance and guidance if needed.
• Local Experiences and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Karnataka tour packages often include visits to offbeat destinations and hidden gems that may be challenging to discover independently. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the state's culture and allow travelers to explore lesser-known attractions. For example, a package might offer a visit to the lesser-explored Western Ghats region for trekking or wildlife encounters.
• Expert Recommendations and Culinary Delights: Karnataka is renowned for its diverse cuisine, including delicious South Indian dishes like dosas, idlis, and local delicacies like Mysore pak and Coorg pandi curry. A Karnataka tour package can provide expert recommendations for authentic culinary experiences, ensuring travelers get to savor the best local flavors. This helps overcome the challenge of finding the most authentic and delicious food options.

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47 Karnataka Tour Packages Found

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Karnataka Wildlife Tour Package with Jungle Safari

4 Nights / 5 Days

Bangalore(1N) → Mysore(1N) → Nagarhole(1N) → Bandipur National Park(1N)

Inclusions:

Twin-sharing rooms

Private cab with driver

Sightseeing in a private cab

View Detailed Itinerary & Inclusions ->

₹ 15,000*

per adult on twin sharing

Quintessential Karnataka Package: Bangalore, Mysore, Coorg

Bangalore(1N) → Mysore(1N) → Coorg(2N)

Private AC cab with driver

Sightseeing in a private AC cab

₹ 16,649*

Hills & Heritage of Karnataka & Tamilnadu: Ooty, Kodaikanal, Mysore & More

5 Nights / 6 Days

Bangalore(0N) → Mysore(1N) → Ooty(2N) → Kodaikanal(2N)

₹ 14,000*

5 Nights 6 Days Serene Chikamagalur, Coorg Package

Bangalore(0N) → Mysore(1N) → Chikmagalur(2N) → Coorg(2N)

₹ 13,799*

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Leisure & Heritage Package: Chikmagalur & Hampi from Bangalore

Bangalore(1N) → Chikmagalur(2N) → Hampi(2N)

Experience Karnataka Family Package

8 Nights / 9 Days

Bangalore(1N) → Mysore(1N) → Chikmagalur(2N) → Kudremukh(2N) → Mangalore(2N)

₹ 35,999*

Enchanting South Honeymoon Package: Coorg, Ooty, Wayanad & More

7 Nights / 8 Days

Bangalore(1N) → Mysore(1N) → Coorg(2N) → Wayanad(1N) → Ooty(2N)

Sightseeing & Transfer in AC Indigo/Dzire with driver

Pick-up and drop at from Bangalore/Coimbatore Airport/Railway Station

₹ 34,000*

Beaches & Hills of Karnataka: Coorg, Chikmagalur, Mangalore & More

Bangalore(1N) → Mysore(1N) → Coorg(2N) → Mangalore(2N) → Chikmagalur(2N)

₹ 38,999*

Divine Karnataka Pilgrimage Package

Bangalore(0N) → Kukke Subrahmanya(1N) → Mangalore(1N) → Udupi(1N) → Gokarna(1N) → Sirsi(1N) → Kollur(1N) → Horanadu(1N)

Breakfast, Dinner

₹ 38,750*

Hills & Beaches Package: Karnataka & Goa

Bangalore(0N) → Mysore(1N) → Chikmagalur(2N) → Hampi(2N) → Goa(3N)

Sightseeing & Transfer in private AC cab with driver

Boat Cruise in Goa

₹ 22,999*

Bangalore Mysore Ooty Tour Package

Bangalore(1N) → Mysore(1N) → Ooty(2N)

Sightseeing & Transfers in AC car (Indica) with Driver

₹ 5,000*

Relax & Recharge Package: Coorg, Ooty, Coonoor & More

Bangalore(0N) → Mysore(1N) → Coorg(2N) → Ooty(2N)

Nature Escape to Coorg & Mysore from Bangalore

Bangalore(0N) → Coorg(2N) → Mysore(2N)

₹ 12,200*

Southern Karnataka Temple Trail With Ooty and Coonoor

Bangalore(1N) → Hassan(2N) → Mysore(2N) → Ooty(2N)

₹ 35,800*

Historical Hampi Tour from Bangalore

Bangalore(1N) → Hospet(3N)

₹ 9,000*

Weekend At Kaav Safari Lodge, Kabini

2 Nights / 3 Days

Bangalore(1N) → Kabini(1N)

Bus/Train fare as applicable for transfer(s)

₹ 25,767*

South India Package Mysore Coorg Ooty

Cycling tour of south india.

26 Nights / 27 Days

Goa(0N) → Karwar(1N) → Gokarna(1N) → Baindur(1N) → Koppa(1N) → Lakkavalli(1N) → Chikmagalur(1N) → Mudigere(2N) → Hassan(1N) → Coorg(1N) → Mysore(1N) → Mudumalai(1N) → Ooty(2N) → Nilambur(1N) → Kozhikode(1N) → Guruvayur(1N) → Kochi(2N) → Thattekkad(1N) → Dewalokam(2N) → Kumarakom(1N) → Alleppey(1N) → Mararikulam(2N)

Sightseeing & transfer in a AC SUV cab

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

₹ 225,000*

Vintage Karnataka - Bangalore, Mysore, Hampi and More

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Hampi (2N) → Belur (1N) → Halebid (1N)

₹ 9,166*

Simply Bandipur

Bandipur (2N)

₹ 7,168*

Pocket-Friendly Mysore, Ooty, Munnar and More

Mysore (2N) → Ooty (2N) → Munnar (2N) → Thekkady (1N)

₹ 9,960*

Misty Mysore, Coorg and Ooty

6 Nights / 7 Days

Mysore (1N) → Coorg (2N) → Ooty (2N)

₹ 68,050*

Simply Mysore

3 Nights / 4 Days

Mysore (3N)

₹ 10,605*

Delightful Mysore, Bandipur and Ooty

Mysore (2N) → Bandipur (2N) → Ooty (2N)

₹ 21,476*

Simply Hampi

₹ 9,888*

Unconventional Karnataka - Mangalore, Udupi, Murudeshwar and More

Mangalore (2N) → Udupi (1N) → Murudeshwar (1N) → Gokarna (1N)

₹ 6,560*

Historical Karnataka Package - Bangalore, Mysore, Hampi and More

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Hampi (2N) → Badami (1N) → Aihole (1N)

₹ 22,992*

Quaint Mysore with Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary

Mysore (4N)

₹ 14,140*

Splendid Bangalore, Mysore, Coorg and More

Bangalore (2N) → Mysore (2N) → Coorg (2N) → Hampi (2N)

₹ 106,180*

Phenomenal Karnataka Tour: Bangalore, Mysore, Chikmagalur and More

Bangalore (2N) → Mysore (2N) → Chikmagalur (1N) → Hampi (2N)

₹ 24,299*

Wildlife Karnataka Package - Mysore, Ranganathittu, Bandipur and More

Bangalore - Mysore (2N) → Ranganathittu (1N) → Nagarhole (1N) → Bandipur (1N) → Ooty (2N)

₹ 23,985*

Mesmerizing Coorg, Kabini and Bangalore

Bangalore (1N) → Coorg (2N) → Kabini (2N) → Bangalore (1N)

₹ 84,120*

Budget Friendly Ooty, Bangalore and Mysore

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Ooty (2N) → Bangalore (2N)

₹ 8,470*

Unforgettable Bangalore, Shimoga and Jog Falls

Bangalore (1N) → Shimoga (2N) → Jog Falls (1N) Bangaluru (1N)

₹ 12,648*

Thriving Karnataka Package - Bangalore, Mysore, Nagarhole and More

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Nagarhole (1N) → Coonoor (1N) → Bangalore(1N)

₹ 20,670*

Vibrant Bangalore, Mysore, Wayanad and More

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Wayanad (2N) → Kabini (1N) → Bangalore (1N)

₹ 10,980*

Extraordinary Karnataka - Bangalore, Mysore, Nagarhole and More

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Nagerhole (1N) → Chickmangalur (1N) → Dandeli (2N)

₹ 24,901*

Offbeat Karnataka Tour - Mangalore, Udupi, Karwar and Gokarna

Mangalore (2N) → Udupi (1N) → Karwar (1N) → Gokarna (1N)

₹ 17,348*

Explore Karnataka Package - Bangalore, Srirangapatna, Mysore and More

Bangalore (1N) → Srirangapatna (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Shravanabelagola (1N) → Aihole (1N) → Badami (1N)

₹ 10,264*

Engaging Karnataka Package - Bangalore, Mysore, Chickmangalur

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Chikmagalur (2N) → Bangalore (1N)

₹ 21,296*

Exotic Karnataka and Kerala Package

11 Nights / 12 Days

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Coorg (2N) → Wayanad (1N) → Cochin (1N) → Kumarakom (1N) → Periyar (1N) → Munnar (2N)

₹ 130,511*

Temples Special - Bangalore, Mysore, Dharmasthala and More

Bangalore (2N) → Mysore (2N) → Dharmasthala (1N) → Gokarna (1N)

₹ 22,459*

Double Dhamaka: Karnataka and Tamil Nadu Package

9 Nights / 10 Days

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Kabini (1N) → Ooty (2N) → Tiruvannamalai (1N) → Mahabalipuram (1N) → Chennai (1N)

₹ 35,523*

Indulge in Bangalore, Mysore, Kabini and More

Bangalore (1N) → Mysore (2N) → Kabini (1N) → Ooty (2N) → Cochin (1N) → Kumarakom (1N) → Bangalore (1N)

₹ 114,570*

Religious Bangalore, Kukke Subrahmanya, Dharmasthala and More

Bangalore (1N) → Kukke Subrahmanya (1N) → Dharmasthala (1N) → Mangalore (1N) → Udupi (1N) → Murudeshwar (1N) → Gokarna (1N) → Kollur (1N) → Bangalore (1N)

₹ 13,985*

Holy Bangalore, Sravanabelagola, Halebid and More

Bangalore (1N) → Sravanabelagola (1N) → Halebid (1N) → Belur (1N) → Sringeri (1N) → Shimoga (1N) → Bangalore (1N)

₹ 30,570*

Triple Fun - Mysore, Coorg and Ooty Package

Mysore (2N) → Coorg (2N) → Ooty (2N)

₹ 21,556*

Popular destinations in Karnataka for holiday packages

Coorg Packages

Hampi Packages

Gokarna Packages

Chikmagalur Packages

Bangalore Packages

Mysore Packages

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Top States in India for Tour Packages

Rajasthan Packages

Starting from ₹ 1199

Jammu and Kashmir Packages

Starting from ₹ 4216

Himachal Pradesh Packages

Starting from ₹ 4000

Uttarakhand Packages

Starting from ₹ 2500

Starting from ₹ 1800

Sikkim Packages

Starting from ₹ 12000

Meghalaya Packages

Starting from ₹ 8000

Gujarat Packages

Starting from ₹ 5000

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Madhya Pradesh Packages

Starting from ₹ 3680

Best International Tour Packages

Karnataka packages for your need.

Karnataka Honeymoon Packages

Starting from ₹ 7,000

Packages with Karnataka

India Packages

Top Places in Karnataka for honeymoon packages

Bangalore Honeymoon Packages

Starting from ₹ 7,300

Coorg Honeymoon Packages

Starting from ₹ 5,500

FAQs on Karnataka Tour Packages

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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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Karnataka Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Karnataka. We've got 95 trips going to Karnataka, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. The most popular month to go is March, which has the most tour departures.

95 Karnataka tour packages with 30 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Bangalore & Mysore Tour With Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari

The Bangalore & Mysore Tour with Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari and it was an unforgettable experience. From the bustling city of Bangalore to the serene forests of Nagarhole and the charming town of Coonoor, this tour truly had it all. The tour started in Bangalore, a city known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and bustling markets. Our guide took us to some of the must-visit places in the city, including the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the Bangalore Palace, and the iconic Cubbon Park. We also got to taste some of the famous South Indian delicacies like dosas and idlis. Next, we headed to Mysore, a city steeped in history and culture. We visited the magnificent Mysore Palace, which left us in awe with its grand architecture and intricate designs. We also got to witness the famous Mysore Dasara festival, which was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But the highlight of the tour was the wildlife safari in Nagarhole National Park. We were lucky enough to spot a variety of animals, including elephants, deer, and even a tiger! The lush green forests and the sound of birds chirping made for a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. The Coonoor safari was equally amazing, with its picturesque tea plantations and stunning views of the Nilgiri mountains. We also got to taste some freshly brewed tea and learn about the process of tea-making at a local tea factory. The accommodations provided throughout the tour were comfortable and the food was delicious. Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the entire experience even more enjoyable. Overall, the Bangalore & Mysore Tour with Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari was a perfect blend of city life, wildlife adventure, and natural beauty. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a unique and fulfilling travel experience in India.

• Sightseeing

Customized Culture and Beach Holiday in India with Daily Departure

We had a very interesting tour with an excellent driver (Mr Anthony) who made us comfortable and very knowledgeable guides everywhere we visited. Our favourite Hotel was in Mysore although all were good and the visit to Halebidu was probably my highlight as the temples were magnificent with such elaborate carvings. Goa was not as relaxing as I imagined. We enjoyed the beach but didn't want to lay in the sun too long so other than shopping we didn't find it as attractive as we had expected. Overall all it was a very good introduction to a country we had not visited before. The arrangements for meeting the drivers and guides worked well for us despite us arriving and departing before/after the 11 day tour so thanks to Linda and other support staff this worked well.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

The Southern Feast - Karnataka & Goa

It was a wonderful experience for us. All your arrangements were up to the mark. All hotels and transportation arrangements were excellent. Thanks to MTA Team.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Karnataka Wildlife Tour With Kabini From Bangalore All inclusive

The Karnataka Wildlife Tour with Kabini from Bangalore and it was an incredible experience. The tour was all inclusive, which made it very convenient and hassle-free. The tour was well-organized and the itinerary was perfectly planned. The highlight of the tour was definitely the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a beautiful and serene place, with lush green forests and a variety of animals and birds. We were lucky enough to spot some tigers, elephants, and various species of birds during our safari. The safari was well-guided and the naturalist accompanying us was very knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife. Apart from the safari, we also visited other wildlife sanctuaries such as Bandipur and Nagarhole. Each sanctuary had its own unique flora and fauna, and we got to see a wide range of animals and birds. The accommodations provided were comfortable and well-maintained, giving us a chance to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring. The tour also included a visit to the beautiful city of Mysore, known for its grand palaces and rich history. We got to witness the grandeur of the Mysore Palace and explore the local markets for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. The best part about the tour was the all-inclusive aspect. We didn't have to worry about anything as everything from transportation, accommodation, meals, and safari fees were taken care of. It allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience and enjoy every moment without any worries. The tour guide was very friendly and accommodating, making sure that everyone in the group had a great time. The whole experience was well-organized and we didn't face any delays or issues throughout the tour. Overall, the Karnataka Wildlife Tour with Kabini from Bangalore was an amazing experience and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of Karnataka. The all-inclusive package makes it convenient and hassle-free, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience. I would definitely go on this tour again in the future.

Karnataka & Kerala - Art, Culture & Nature

We went on our honeymoon tour to Karnataka and Kerela and had a beautiful and soothing experience. The hotels were really luxurious and comfortable. Our driver Tamil was very friendly and knowledgeable. Thank you Mta.

4 Days Wildlife Tour of Mysore Bandipur from Bangalore(ALL INCLUSIVE)

No word for describe our journey in india.we went on a 4-day wildlife tour of Mysore Bandipur from Bangalore and it was an unforgettable experience. From start to finish, the tour was well-organized and exceeded my expectations. Our tour guide, Mr.Hemender Singh was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the wildlife and the region, making the tour even more enjoyable. He made sure to keep us informed and entertained throughout the journey. The itinerary was well-planned, with a perfect balance of safari rides, nature walks, and cultural experiences. We started our first day with a visit to the Mysore Palace, which was a stunning architectural masterpiece. Then we headed to the Bandipur National Park for our first safari ride. It was an incredible experience to see the animals in their natural habitat, including tigers, elephants, and various species of birds. The second day was spent exploring the beautiful city of Mysore, visiting the Chamundi Hills, St. Philomena's Church, and the famous Devaraja Market. We also got to witness the traditional Mysore silk weaving process, which was a unique and interesting experience. On the third day, we went on a nature walk at the Bandipur National Park, where we got to see different types of flora and fauna, including some rare species. The highlight of the day was the evening safari ride, where we spotted a herd of elephants bathing in a nearby river. The last day of the tour was spent at the historic Srirangapatna Fort, followed by a visit to the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Our guide Mr. Kumar made sure to point out different species of birds and their unique characteristics, making it an educational and fun experience. The accommodations provided were comfortable and clean, and the food provided was delicious and authentic. I also appreciated the fact that the tour was all-inclusive, so we didn't have to worry about any additional expenses. Overall, I highly recommend this 4-day wildlife tour of Mysore Bandipur from Bangalore. It was a well-planned and well-executed tour, providing a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and adventure. I came back from this tour with a newfound appreciation for nature and wildlife and some amazing memories. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!

Magnificent 10 Days South India Temple Tour Package from Bangalore(ALL INCLUSIVE)

I booked this trip online through Travelcon for 10 Days South India Temple Tour from Australia. My Australian travel agent was a different one but he gave me +91 9758823555, Hemender Singh who was contact for any travel related issues during the trip in India. It was an amazing 10 Days tour and all the person I met during the trip were awesome. Even they were guides,Driver, people at different hotels. Hemender was awesome,quiet helpful and he always checked with us to ensure that everything was doing good.I felt that cities in India are much safer to travel.We really enjoyed interacting with the people unless you can understand their English well because of different accent. I would highlyrecommend "Travelcon" for other visitors also.

Vijayanagara Voyage: From Goa to Hampi

Wonderful tour with excellent safe driving from Shashi. Guided tours of Badami, Pattadakkal, Aihole, Hampi over 3 days with particularly good tour guide in Badami and Pattadakkal, Raj. Arrived safely in Bengaluru on day 4 as planned. Everything was great and I recommend to anyone

• Wildlife & Nature Photography

Heritage and Wildlife Trail: Discovering Mysore, Bandipur, and Somanathpur

Both driver and guide we knowledgeable and professional.

Best of Karnataka (with Hampi) - 9 Days

Goa Hampi Badami Tour

Best of Karnataka and Goa

Private Luxury Guided Tour to Hampi (From Delhi with flights): Monuments and Fascinating Ruins of a Lost Kingdom

Private Luxury Guided Tour to Hampi (From Bangalore): Monuments and Fascinating Ruins of a Lost Kingdom

Amazing Karnataka with Goa

Reviews of karnataka tours.

I have to go on a Bangalore & Mysore tour with Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari and it was an unforgettable experience. From the bustling city of Bangalore to the tranquil forests of Nagarhole and the charming town of Coonoor, this tour truly had something for everyone. Our tour started in Bangalore, also known as the Silicon Valley of India. The city was a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, with its skyscrapers and ancient temples coexisting harmoniously. Our tour guide took us to some of the must-see spots in the city, including the famous Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. We also got to taste some delicious local food at the famous food street in VV Puram. Next, we headed to Nagarhole National Park, one of the best wildlife reserves in India. The safari through the park was a thrilling experience as we got to see a variety of animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and many more in their natural habitat. We were lucky enough to spot a family of elephants crossing the road right in front of our jeep. The park also had a beautiful river running through it, making the scenery even more picturesque. After our wildlife adventure, we traveled to the charming hill station of Coonoor. The drive through the Nilgiri mountains was breathtaking and Coonoor itself was a quaint little town with lush green valleys and tea plantations. We took a safari through the nearby Mudumalai National Park and spotted many exotic birds and animals like peacocks, deer, and even a leopard. The highlight of the tour for me was the visit to Mysore, also known as the City of Palaces. The Mysore Palace was a sight to behold with its intricate architecture and rich history. We also visited the famous Chamundeshwari Temple and watched the mesmerizing light and sound show at the Brindavan Gardens. Throughout the tour, our guide was knowledgeable and helpful, providing us with interesting facts and stories about each place we visited. The accommodations and transportation were also top-notch, making our journey comfortable and hassle-free. Overall, the Bangalore & Mysore tour with Wildlife Nagarhole & Coonoor Safari was an incredible experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking to explore the beauty and diversity of South India. It was a perfect blend of city life, wildlife, and nature, making it a well-rounded and unforgettable trip. I can't wait to go back and explore more of this beautiful region.

We had a very interesting tour with an excellent driver (Mr Anthony) who made us comfortable and very knowledgeable guides everywhere we visited. Our favourite Hotel was in Mysore although all were good and the visit to Halebidu was probably my highlight as the temples were magnificent with such elaborate carvings. Goa was not as relaxing as I imagined. We enjoyed the beach but didn't want to lay in the sun too long so other than shopping we didn't find it as attractive as we had expected. Overall all it was a very good introduction to a country we had not visited before. The arrangements for meeting the drivers and guides worked well for us despite us arriving and departing before/after the 11 day tour so thanks to Linda and other support staff this worked well.

The tour is highly recommended historically and culturally, especially places like Hampi and Badami. Goa is overly touristy for a person with a professional background in tourism, yet old Goa is a very nice place to visit. Our hotel was near Baga beach and it was a nice place to relax and have some ayurvedic spa time! MTA organized the tour very well. We had a comfortable car, an excellent and professional driver Parveen throughout the tour. Most of the tour guides were very good. Most of the hotels and food were good I recommend you to discuss and choose the hotels carefully in advance. Ask for all options so you can choose accordingly. The MTA representative Manish is very helpful and will find you the best option that suits your preferences and budget. We definitely had a very good and enjoyable time in Kernataka and Goa! And after our experience we can highly recommend MTA.

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Discover the world of a thousand hidden memories, experience karnataka, one state. many worlds., tranquility, spirituality, latest in karnataka, articles related to tourism in karnataka, seven wonders of karnataka.

Kalaseshwara Temple, Kalasa

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• G20 Schedule in Karnataka
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Things to do in Hampi

• Places to see in Dharwad – 2022
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EXPLORE KARNATAKA

Explore the districts of karnataka.

Come and explore the hidden gems of Karnataka. The sixth largest state in India is famous for its wildlife, heritage, temples, monuments, beaches, adventure, food and much more.

EXPLORE ALL

Belagavi was originally known as Velugrama or Venugrama as per historical records and it literally meant “bamboo village”. Venu stands for bamboo which is found abundantly in these areas. Belagavi is surrounded by Uttara Kannada and Dharwad in the south, Bagalkote and Gadag in the east, Maharashtra state in the north and Goa state in the west. Belagavi is one of the oldest cities of Karnataka and is the largest in terms of size.

Bangluru Urban

Located 949 m above sea level in South India, Bengaluru is a fast-paced amalgam of the old and new. It is an exciting destination with tantalising sights to take in, mixed with the sensations of a happening cosmopolitan city. Bengaluru is more than just a city; it is a vibrant melange of the past, present and future, a potpourri of experiences unlike any other! With its cosmopolitan nature, Bengaluru welcomes you into its fold.

Bidar, situated in the heart of the Deccan Plateau, has been a melting pot of cultural influences. A region that has seen dramatic changes in the course of its history, it is home to magnificent monuments. Ruled by the Kakatiyas, Tughlaqs, Bahamanis, Barid Shahis, Adil Shahis, Mughals and Nizams at different times, the architecture shows an interesting intermingling of Hindu, Turkish and Persian styles.

Situated in the North Karnataka region, the district of Kalaburagi (formerly called as Gulbarga) forms part of the Deccan Plateau and shares its borders with Maharashtra and Telangana. Among the three districts of the former Hyderabad Karnataka area, it became part of Mysore (Karnataka) after the reorganization of States in 1956. Kalaburagi district is surrounded by Yadgir in the south, Vijayapura and Maharashtra in the west, Bidar in the north and Telangana State in the east.

Vijayapur was a gateway to the Deccan Sultanate which extended from North Karnataka to central India. Located in the historically rich Deccan, the city was established in the 10th-11th centuries by the Kalyani Chalukyas and was ruled by various dynasties including the Adil Shahi kings who have had a major influence on the region. It is dotted with mosques, mausoleums, palaces, fortifications, watchtowers, and strong gateways, with the massive Gol Gumbaz dominating the landscape for miles around.

Yadgiri is one of the smallest districts of Karnataka and it is located in the northeastern part of the state. It is surrounded by Kalaburgi in the north, Raichur in the south, Vijayapura in the west and Telangana state in the east. The major crops include Jowar, Paddy, Cotton, Sunflower, Groundnut and Sugarcane. The area is also renowned for its vast stretch of fertile black soil which is the main reason for bumper harvests especially of red gram, hence the district is also referred to as the “Daal Bowl” of the state.

Situated in the northern part of Karnataka is Bagalkote. Bagalkote is flanked by Vijayapura in the north, Gadag in the south, Raichur towards east, Koppal towards southeast and Belagavi towards the west. The Ghataprabha River, Malaprabha River and Krishna River flow through the district.The legendary Chalukya Dynasty ruled over the place in and around Bagalkote.

Geographically, the district is surrounded by Kalaburagi in the north, Vijayapura and Bagalkote in the west, Koppal and Ballari in the south and Andhra Pradesh State in the east. Raichur is an important commercial, industrial and education centre in North Karnataka.Raichur lies between two important rivers, the Krishna and the Tungabhadra, in the north eastern part of Karnataka state.

Dharwad is located in the north western part of Karnataka. Geographically, This place is surrounded by Gadag in the east, Belagavi in the north, Uttara Kannada in the southwest and Haveri in the south. Dharwad had been a part of many dynasties and kings including the Chalukyas, Bahmani Sultanate, Vijayanagara Empire, Adil Shahis, Mughals, Shivaji Maharaj, Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and finally the British East India Company.

Gadag district was formed in 1997 when it was carved out from Dharwad district. Gadag is surrounded by Haveri in the south, Dharwad in the west, Belagavi in the north west, Bagalkote in the north, Koppal in the east and Ballari in the south east.

Vijayanagara

The newest and the 31st District in Karnataka state carved out of Ballari District in 2020 is located in the Kalyana Karnataka Region with Hosapete as district headquarters. It is the home of the former capital of the famous Vijayanagara Empire and its capital Hampi, which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Koppal is a fairly new district of Karnataka which has been carved out of Raichur district. It is surrounded by Raichur in the east, Gadag in the West, Bagalkot in the north, Ballari in the south.The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi also covers some areas of Koppal district including Anegundi, which is home to the mythical kingdom of Kishkinda of Ramayana fame.The old palace and fort still exist here and is the location for the annual “Anegundi Utsava”.

Ballari is situated on the eastern side of Karnataka and is surrounded by Raichur and Koppal on the north, Haveri and Gadag on the west, Chitradurga and Davanagere on the south, and Anantapur and Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh) on the east. Ballari has been a meeting place for people from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh hence offering a tradition and culture mix of both the states.

Uttara Kannada

Uttara Kannada District is one of the largest districts in Karnataka with abundant natural resources and varied geographical features. It is surrounded by Belagavi and Goa State to the North, Dharward in the East, Shivamogga and Udupi in the South. Kannada & Konkani are the 2 major regional languages spoken here. With a total land area of 10.25 lakh hectares, 8.28 hectares is under forest land.

Haveri district is almost in the centre of Karnataka with equal distance from Bidar in the far north to Kollegal in the far south. It is surrounded by Dharwad and Gadag in the north, Ballari and Davanagere in the east, Shivamogga in the south and Uttara Kannada in the west. Haveri is well known for its rich culture and heritage and is considered as the gateway to North Karnataka.Haveri is the birthplace of several prominent personalities such as Santa Shishunala Sharif, Kanaka Dasa and Sarvajna.

Shivamogga district is a part of the Malnad region of Karnataka. This landlocked district is surrounded by Haveri, Davanagere, Chikkmagaluru, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts and is located 300 km north-west of Bengaluru. Nestled cosily as a Gateway to the Western Ghats, the Shivamogga region is a lush green landscape well-endowed with forests, sparkling water bodies, spectacular waterfalls and green peaks rising to the skies.

The name “Udupi” is believed to have come from the Sanskrit words “Udu & Pa” that means “stars” and “Lord“. According to legend, the Moon’s light was once reduced due to a curse by King Daksha. The Moon prayed to Lord Shiva to get back the original shine and the prayer was believed to be made at the Chandramouleshwara Temple here.

Chikkamagaluru

Chikkamagaluru is a peaceful, beautiful town with hills, valleys, streams and coffee plantations. It is believed that Chikkamagaluru was given as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the Chief of Sakrepatna kingdom. Chikkamagaluru has taken its name from Chikka magal-uru which means “Younger Daughter’s Village“.

Dakshina Kannada

Ensconced on the southern coast, this maritime city makes a pleasant and convenient stop between Kerala and Karwar. It’s the gateway to the Konkan coast and inland Kodagu region. The district is bound by sea in the west and Western Ghats in the East, Udupi district in the North and Kerala State in the South. Mangaluru is the district headquarters of Dakshina Kannada and it has been synonymous with banking and education.

Surrounded by Dakshina Kannada in the west, Chikkamagaluru and Chitradurga in the north, Coorg towards the south and Tumkuru in the east, Hassan has an eventful and rich history. It is blessed with a pleasant climate and a great picturesque location. It is here where the plains (maidaans) begin to gently slope into the Western Ghats (malnad).Although not a proper hill station, Hassan is often referred to as Poor Man’s Ooty.

Located around 65 km from Bengaluru, Tumakuru is the second-largest district in the state of Karnataka. Tumakuru district shares its border with eight districts, which is the highest in the state; Chitradurga towards the north, Hassan and Chikkamagaluru towards west, Mandya towards the south-west, Ramanagara and Bengaluru Rural towards the south, Chikkaballapura towards east and Ananthapuram (Andhra Pradesh) towards north-east.

Bangalore Rural

Bengaluru Rural is surrounded by Bengaluru Urban in the south, Tumkuru and Chikkaballapur in the north, Kolar in the east and Ramnagara in the west. Bengaluru Rural District was formed in 1986 when Bengaluru was split into Bangalore (Rural) and Bangalore (Urban). Again, it was spilt in 2007, when the talukas of Kanakapura, Ramanagar, Magadi and Channapatna merged to the newly formed Ramanagara district.

Chikkaballapur

Chikkaballapur district is a newly created district in the state of Karnataka. Chikkaballapur was formed in 2007 when it was carved out of the existing Kolar district. The district is surrounded by Kolar in the southwest, Bengaluru Rural in the south, Tumkuru in the west and Andhra Pradesh state in the north. Chikkaballapur is located around 60 km from Bengaluru city and due to this proximity, attractions in Chikkaballapur is a favourite weekend getaway for the Bengaluru crowd.

In 1997, Davanagere district was carved out of 3 districts of Chitradurga, Shivamogga and Ballari and derives its name from Devanagari which gradually became Davanagere. It is surrounded by Ballari in the north, Shivamogga and Haveri in the west, Chikkamagaluru in the south and Chitradurga in the east.

Chitradurga

Chitradurga offers visitors an irresistible mix of history, legends and spirituality. Chitradurga offers visitors a spectacular boulder-strewn landscape which has an unconquerable fort with astounding defenses, ancient temples and a history full of valour and bravery.It is believed that the name of the place earlier was ‘Chatrakaldurg ‘, the word ‘Chatrakal’ meaning umbrella rock, being derived from a striking umbrella-shaped hill in the south-western part of the town.

Nestled on the slopes of the Western Ghats, Coorg (also called Kodagu) woos you with its undulating hills, lush green forests and a spectacular landscape dotted with coffee plantations and orange groves. Coorg is the land of coffee, cardamom, colonels, and the Cauvery. Aptly dubbed as ‘the Scotland of India’, Coorg offers a spellbinding visual treat with its cloud-capped peaks, chirpy birds and sparkling streams, not to mention the unique, mouth-watering flavours of Kodagu cuisine.

It was, in ancient inscriptions, known as Kuvalala, Kolala and Kolahalapura. Historical evidence says that Kolar was in existence from the 4th Century onwards. The Ganga dynasty originally hailed from this place which was the initial capital. Moreover, Kolar was also part of many other dynasties including Cholas, Hoysalas and Vijayanagara. Moreover, it also has mentioned in the Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Geographically, Mandya is surrounded by Tumkuru in the north, Ramanagara in the east, Chamrajanagara and Mysuru in the south and Hassan in the west. Mandya is also known as the land of five rivers due to the presence of the rivers Cauvery, Hemavathi, Shimsha, Veeravaishnavi and Lokapavani.

Ramanagara was called Closepet during pre-independence times, named so after Sir Barry Close who built the old bridge here. Ramanagara district was carved out of the erstwhile Bengaluru Rural district in 2007. The district is surrounded by Bangalore Urban and Tumakuru in the north, Mandya in the west, Chamarajanagar in the south and Tamil Nadu state in the west. Cauvery, Arkavathi & Kanva are the three rivers flowing in the District.

Mysuru, the ‘City of Palaces’, is royalty and magnificence embodied; overflowing with history, sprawling gardens and tree-lined boulevards. One of South India’s most fascinating cities, Mysuru has a plethora of places to visit and explore. Ruled over by the Wadiyars from 1399 till Independence, Mysuru is renowned for its royal heritage and splendid monuments and buildings. This former state capital is a seamless blend of old-world charm and modernity.

Chamrajnagar

Being the southernmost district of Karnataka, Chamarajanagar district shares its borders with the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Chamarajanagar was earlier known as Arikutara, which was changed by Krishnaraja Wadiyar III in memory of his father Chamaraja Wadiyar who was born at this place and also constructed the Chamarajeshwara Temple, a monument of considerable beauty.

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Amazing Karnataka – From Ten Years of Travel

Timeless (And Best) Places to Visit in Karnataka India And All About the State — From a Local

I have spent six years (if not more) in Karnataka, spanning over a decade. And finally I’ve moved out (for the unempteenth time) to have a life on the road.

It seems yesterday when I had gone to Bangalore to work at a software company. Ten years ago, I wasn’t going to Karnataka. I was moving to Bangalore, the capital of the state and the software hub of India. This crowded city of Bangalore seemed like a state of its own. My local Kannada friends told me the city wasn’t so jammed and hotch-potched in their young days. They grew up cycling under the canopy of trees, taking the local bus, and spending time in parks. 

Since Bengaluru became the Silicon Valley of India, millions of employees and employers came to the city with their families. As the city wasn’t planned by any civic planner, it expanded in every direction in an unruly manner. Concomitantly, the infrastructure got so bad that everyone living in Bangalore wanted to go out to the places to visit in Karnataka rather than staying within the busy city.

But today I’m not here for Bangalore. Today I want to tell the story of Karnataka — the state of the jungles, so let me get to that quickly.

Table of Content For Best Visiting Places in Karnataka Guide

• About Karnataka
• Best Places in Karnataka
• Languages in Karnataka
• Best Time for Traveling to Places of Karnataka
• Food of Karnataka
• Best Transport Mode for Places to See in Karnataka
• Travel Safety in Karnataka

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About the state of karnataka india and its history.

As the history of Karnataka goes back to the Neolithic age, I possibly can’t get into it in detail. 

But here is a little summary. Karnataka was ruled over by a series of kings, including the Mauryas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Cholas, and the Vijayanagar empire. From the Vijayanagara Empire, the rule of the Mysore kingdom (the present Karnataka) was passed to  Tipu Sultan . In the last of the four Anglo-Mysore wars, Tipu Sultan, lovingly known as the Tiger of Mysore, lost to the British and the state came under the colonists. 

After India’s independence, all the primary Kannada regions were combined to form the state of Mysore on 1 November 1956. But Mysore was renamed Karnataka in 1973 as a lot of people thought Mysore didn’t represent the new regions that were added during the state formation.

Karnataka has the Arabian Sea on the west. Its border touches all five states – Maharashtra to the north, Telangana to the northeast, Andhra Pradesh to the east, Tamil Nadu to the southeast, and Kerala to the south.

About twenty-two percent of Karnataka is under forest (forming 6% of India’s total forest). In this state, tigers and leopards roam free. Mountains and hills fill the Western boundaries of Karnataka. Here relics two thousand years old are still being excavated. In Karnataka, one can see sloth bears licking honey off rocks and fury Malabar squirrels clutching onto trees with sharp claws. Peacocks dance uninhibited and flying foxes flying together form a black duvet over our heads. 

Karnataka jungles are deliciously deciduous, evergreen, and thorny. The forest is dense with snakes and elephants. Some national reserves are so thick they never let any sunlight in. The soulful dance of the soulmate hornbills in the sand and soil is known to all. Rivers and lakes are abundant. Waterfalls lie tucked amongst high hills and forests. Villages are dispersed in between these jungles. Sometimes there is a road, and some days one has to walk on foot. 

About 61 percent of Karnataka lives in rural areas. Thus a lot of inhabited regions are still remote and unreachable. People do farming, mining, and manufacturing. Then there are industries, textile, automobile, software jobs, and Karnataka tourism has been seeing a boom for years now. 

Karnataka is an interesting state which (even after ten years) I have just started to understand.

A piece on Karnataka wildlife is coming up soon.

Some of The Most Culturally-Intriguing and Beautiful Places in Karnataka

The only reason I don’t already have a house in Karnataka is that I still haven’t learned Kannada. Otherwise, I proudly tell everyone I love the state. How can one not admire such a gorgeous and rich place where you have a new experience at every turn? Traveling in Karnataka is almost like being in a new country.

The list of Karnataka tourism places is endless. From deep-blue beaches, unseen forests, to temples and monuments recently discovered, Karnataka is dense with interesting destinations to rejuvenate a traveler physically, spiritually, and emotionally. If only one is open to experiences. 

(On a side note: I was just almost treated away from my writing spot in the pine forest here in a village Chindi in Himachal by some rowdy cows. They didn’t care that I know their human parents and moved towards me as if they were going to trample me over. I think I had made the mistake of sitting over a patch of grass they find really tasty. I can tell by the amount of dried cow poop that lay here. In bonus to this threat, I also hear the grunt of a bull closely whom I have seen following these cows, wooing them. Villagers told me this bull goes after people too if you try to shoo him away.)

So let’s keep an open heart to travel experiences and get back to Karnataka from crazy Himachal cow stories. 

Here are some beautiful Karnataka places to visit.

1. Nandi Hills – A Newbie’s Karnataka 

Cold wind ruffling on the cheeks, hair going all frizzy, we wrapping our jackets closer to our bodies, huddling together, eating steaming maggie, and waiting for that sunrise on the horizon, that’s how I remember Nandi hills.

Nandi hills are that quintessential hill stop every Bangalorean and traveler makes at least once. While everyone at the top of Nandi enjoys the view of the clouds spread below their feet and the sun lighting up the sky in front, none of us know much about Nandi hills. 

Located 60 km (37 miles) from Bangalore, Nandi hills are part of a larger range of mountains. The ancient Nandi temple Bhoga Nandeeshwara is located at the footsteps of the Nandi hill. The temple is the eponym after which the hill was named. The hill is mentioned as a major fortress of Tipu Sultan which took the British some three weeks to bring down in the year 1791. 

This  Bangalore International podcast episode is a must-listen in which Siddhartha Raja (who runs Nandi Valley walks) talks about the history, geography, and importance of this hill in detail.

Beyond these heritage walks, cycling tours are popular around the hills, adjacent hills are known for night treks, and visit the many ancient temples strewn around the hillocks. Bhoga Nandeeshwara with its stepped stone tank at the bottom of the hills is a popular wedding destination too. But the priests won’t give you a certificate if your parents aren’t present (I know from personal experience). 

Bikashrd , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Nandi hill is a good place to start your Karnataka travel if you land in Bangalore. Otherwise you can skip and visit other historical places in Karnataka. 

Khangkar mud house looks like a good option to stay in Nandi area.

2. Skandagiri Hill – One of the Many Karnataka Destinations Popular for Night Treks

One evening my college friends asked me if I would be interested in climbing hills through jungle paths, and I instantly said yes. All of us hired a cab and drove from Bangalore to the bottom of Skandagiri hill from where the trek begins. In no time we were with our flashlights treading on steep muddy trails fringed with bushes and grasslands of the ubiquitous Karnataka jungle. 

Giri means mountain in Kannada. At an elevation of 1450 meters, Skandagiri hill is a neighbor of Nandi hills. I’m not sure if I knew about the proximity of these two mountains when I hiked Skandagiri at night during my first year in Karnataka. 

The hike took us about a couple of hours. And we were at the top by 3-4 am. As this hill is popular for its night trek many food stalls and tea counters were functional even at that nocturnal time. 

The morning brought fresh dew, and we clicked pictures climbing stones. This is an easy beginner night trek so go with some friends without a doubt. 

I don’t remember if we had hired a guide. The trail is well-worn. During the day one can always find a way to the top. But for the night be better prepared or go with someone who has already visited the hill. The Siddhartha Raja podcast I mentioned above can give you all the information about this mountain too.

On Skandagiri, you spend the night under the stars. Don’t forget to see the remnants of the Tipu Sultan fort that was destroyed by the British after they took it under their siege. Two temples at the bottom and the top of the hill do add more interest to the trail.

Skandagiri and Nandi makes for a good 2 days trip from Bangalore. If using public transport you can get a bus to Nandi hills.

3. Dodda Alada Mara — The Big Banyan Tree

That big bugger monkey took my pineapply away. My legs hurt from cycling, and I don’t understand how can a tree grow so big. These were the first few lines I uttered when I roamed around the popular Dodda Alada Mara.

The Dodda Alada Mara — literally translated to Big Banyan Tree — is a giant 400-year-old banyan tree. Located in the Kethohalli village of Karnataka, the tree lies at a distance of 28 kilometers from Bangalore. This Big Banyan is considered the world’s fourth-largest banyan tree.

I cycled to Dodda Alada many years ago with a group (from where I don’t remember). We took a few hours to cycle. The road went up and down. I was once separated from the group but found them back again. The cycling journey was fairly doable by an amateur cyclist like me so I guess anyone with decent fitness can bike to the beloved banyan.

When we arrived at Dodda Alada we parked our bikes in the parking nearby the tree. Once at the Big Banyan do spend some time admiring the huge tree with its roots shooting out from the branches and now penetrated deep into the ground. The tree’s main trunk was destroyed in 2000 so now only these aerial roots support the tree.

When one looks at this gigantic banyan tree which covers an area of 3 acres for the first time, astonishment is a general emotion, followed by admiration for nature. The tree’s crown spawns over a circumference of 120 meters. I couldn’t tell how tall the tree is but it seemed to reach up to the sky. This banyan’s highest branch reaches 95 feet.

We had bought cut pineapple from a stall right outside the tree premises. But when I just started enjoying the juicy pineapple (with chili) one monkey snatched my packet away. The monkeys do make the visit a bit chaotic but what can you do against nature.

The journey from Bangalore to Dodda Alada can also be done via bus. Take one from Majestic bus stand to Kengeri and from Kengeri to Doda Alada Mara. Direct buses to The Big Banyan also run from K. R. Market .

Given I have read The Hidden Life of Trees I know 400 years is not a lot for a tree. But a usual banyan stays alive for only about 1000 years so this one does have a reason to be admired and celebrated.

Dodda Alada Mara can be your first on the list of places of Karnataka. It makes more sense to go to this place if you are in Bangalore. Otherwise, you can skip visiting the tree, unless you are a tree enthusiast (like me).

Do ask the locals about the ghosts around the tree.

Pro travel tip: While at Dodda Alada Mara don’t forget to visit The Big Banyan Vineyard inspired by its eponym tree.

4. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – Home of Migrant Birds on the River Kaveri

As we approached the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary , we could see big birds flying above us in groups. That part of the city felt like a forest. Soon we would see crocodiles basking on rocks and islets full of young chicks chattering incessantly for food.

Ranganathittu bird sanctuary is a natural reserve in the Mandya district of Karnataka. The reserve is 3 kilometers from the historic town of Srirangapatna (another important place in Karnataka)  and 16 kilometers (10 mi) north of  Mysore . The drive to Ranganathittu bird sanctuary from Bangalore took us about four hours.

Ranganathittu islets were formed when an embankment across the Kaveri river was built between 1645 and 1648 by the then king of Mysore. These islets, originally numbering 25, soon started attracting birds. Once upon a time, ornithologist   Salim Ali observed migrant birds nesting in huge numbers on the islands. Upon his suggestion, the King of Mysore declared the islets a protected area in 1940. Now the sanctuary is formed by six of these islets on the Kaveri river.

We purchased a ticket and went inside. As we walked towards the end of the floor from where we could see the islands below, above us in the sky flew painted storks, ibis, pelicans, and herons. At least those were the birds I could identify. When we took the special boat ride that takes in seven people and goes around the sanctuary for 40 minutes the boatman told us that the reserve hosts at least 170 bird species. Some of the common birds found are painted storks, Asian openbill storks, woolly-necked stork, pelicans, river terns, egrets, cormorants, herons, and varieties of kingfishers.

The migrant birds come from as far as Siberia , South America, and the Himalayas. You can also spot crocodiles, otters, mongooses, and flying foxes there. Just keep your eyes open and binoculars in focus.

The special boat ride costs INR 1500 (we shared with a family) and goes farther and longer than the regular boat ride. The sanctuary has many restaurants. Take a good camera and a pair of binoculars, if you have one. The season to visit is from December to June. Migratory birds come in December and nesting begins in January.

Do ask the locals and the boatman about the flooding in the sanctuary. I’ve linked my article on Ranganathittu above so go through that for more pictures and details.

You can also visit the bird reserve if you go to stay in Mysore.

How to reach: Mysore is well connected by road, rail, and air and from Mysore to the bird reserve is a short car or bus ride.

5. Mysore City – A Modern City With Yoga, Good Food, Artists, and Hills Around

I remember the brightly-lit Mysore Palace as our car spun on the roads at a distance. My father asked me to ignore the palace, but I insisted. Demanding the driver to turn around to get us a closer look, we gazed at the royally lighted Mysore palace for a long while.

A trip to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary can be combined with visiting the Mysore city. Both lie at a distance of 20 km (13 miles) from each other. Hindi speakers call the place Mai-sore, and I mention this because my father once failed to recognize the city when I used the usual pronunciation my-soor.

Karnataka state was once the kingdom of Mysore under the Wadiyar kings for nearly six centuries from 1399 until 1956. Patrons of art and culture, the Wadiyar kingdom along with Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, who ruled there in the 18th century, developed the aesthetics of the place much. After the British, the kingdom was resolved and was joined under the constitution into the states of India.

Mysore is a well-developed city not with its own airport, restaurants, apartments, hospitals, institutions, and roads. Amongst its many historical temples and structures, Mysore is popularly known for the royal Mysore Palace. The palace should be roamed around during the day but gazed from a distance during the evening when it is lit up. Then there is Philomena’s church and other old buildings too. My favorite activity of Mysore seems to be roaming around the city on a bicycle enjoying fresh coconuts every now and then. And go into the bylanes of Mysore to find the artists at work.

Many years ago when I visited Mysore from Bangalore with my parents we hired a taxi for a one-day tour. But this place to visit in Karnataka is a mix of modern and ancient and thus deserves at least a few days. Mysore is also a center for yoga and one of the well-known (and personally recommended) yoga centers is run by A.G.Mohan .

Here is an organic farm stay if you are looking for staying in Mysore. But Mysore has many more heritage and natural properties of interest.

Here are some: Gitanjali homestay , Cornerbunker, Aashraya homestay , The Bunkers Ashram , Laika Heritage Stay , and Green Hotel India.

Pro Tip: Do climb Chamunda hill to have a night view of the palace or just to get a drone view of the city.

How to reach: Well connected by road, air, and rail.

Jim Ankan Deka , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

6. Dandeli National Reserve – A Jungle Fairy Tale

Standing at the top of that watchtower, we saw the mango-golden sun starting its journey into the abyss. Between us deep-green trees stood neck to neck forming the deep Dandeli forest. Not even an inch of land or mountain was visible amidst the foliage. Just imagining the wildlife there gave us goosebumps. And then the peacock calls echoed. I, to date, wonder if I saw it all or was Dandeli just another one of my myriads of daydreams.

Dandeli is a deep jungle reserve in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka about a twelve-hour drive from Bangalore. The 1200 km square of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary or Dandeli National park , which also contains the Kali Tiger Reserve, is home to two hundred crocodiles, fifteen tigers, twenty-three panthers, and twenty-seven leopards.

The muddy Kali river flows through the national park making it a fairy tale jungle. Rafting, coracle rides, and birdwatching are some other activities apart from going for jeep safaris with experienced guides into the reserve.

When people ask me what is one of my favorite places to travel in Karnataka, I say Dandeli.

Where to stay? I stayed in the Kali Jungle Lodge maintained and run by the Karnataka government and the forest department. The jungle lodge is located right on the river bank and one can watch hornbills and crocodiles busy in their daily routine from the hammocks outside their huts.

Many other old properties like Dandeli Jungle Camp and a birdwatching cottage known as Old Magazine House are available for stays too. All of these guest houses have their own itineraries around the forest, river, and backwaters. Culturally intrigued tourists can also visit tribal people to understand their lives. I would advise to be compassionate and empathetic to these tribes whose primary home is the jungle and they completely depend on the government for their survival.

Dandeli town has many homestays too. Madhuvan homestay looks really nice, or go here to scroll through them all. For further details on the Dandeli sanctuary read both my articles: living at Kali jungle lodge in Dandeli and a day at Dandeli Jungle camp .

How to reach: By road or take a train to Dharwad (55 km away from Dandeli).

7. Dubare National Park – Elephant Elephant EveryWhere

The elephants won’t be coming out today. The river is overflowing due to the rains. Said a worker of Dubare National Park when we approached him on the banks of the Kaveri. I couldn’t tell if he was melancholic or just happy to have a day of rest.

Most of the 150 elephants at Dubare were used to carry logs on their backs. Now as logging operations have stopped, the Karnataka forest department wondered what can they do with the elephants. To be able to continue caring for the big animals, the department created elephant interactions.

Dubare camp is a deep jungle that has other wild animals too. After taking a ticket, one can engage with and bathe the elephants who are brought out from their deeper abodes in the forest to the Kaveri river. There in the playful river elephants interact with the animal lovers. Trained mahouts drive the activity for a safe experience.

One of the main places to stay near Dubare is the Jungle Lodge. Their standard itinerary comprises bird walks, coracle rides, and jungle safaris. On a day visit, one can bathe the elephants and also take a coracle ride with the locals on the Kaveri river.

We visited the Dubare elephant camp while returning from Coorg to Bangalore by road (Kodagu). The camp lies in the Kodagu district and is about an hour’s drive away from the main town of Coorg.

Parking is right outside the sanctuary. Many food places circumscribe the park.

Places to stay near Dubare are here: Carpe Diem Stay and Coorg Peacock feathers homestay .

How to reach: By road.

8. Hampi Village – Rich Heritage Cradled in Nature

Ancient ruins scattered amongst hillocks and trees, snake sculptures peeking from caves and river beds, carved boulders, wild langurs, lush paddy villages, ubiquitous crunchy dosa corners, blue skies, simple people, dogs and cats running free on village roads, mountains to climb, and historical temples scattered throughout are only some of the features of Hampi, one of the most interesting and unpredictable tourist places in Karnataka.

See this Hampi photo essay to marvel at the destination and my extensive guide to places in Hampi will be your tour guide.

Relics dating as old as the 3rd century BCE, some of them from the Ashoka empire, have been excavated in Hampi making us wonder since when has this place been inhabited by humans. Hampi village and the surrounding area were the capital of the rich Vijayanagar empire once. The kingdom was brutally destroyed by the Muslim invaders in the 15th century.

So now Hampi is a collection of ruins and remains of the old temples of the empire, the royal market, elephant stables, queen baths, many stepped tanks, royal auditoriums, and symmetrical monuments so pretty you wonder why would anyone vandalize something that beautiful.

But those remains aren’t just found in their designated places. They exist in hidden corners, under the rocks, carved on stones in hills, inside the temples, near the river bank. We couldn’t see the carvings and sculptures near the Tungabhadra river for the river had flooded over. I visited in September — rains had just started receding Karnataka during this month. A coracle ride on Tungabhadra would be pretty joyful in the dry season. Get to the other side to explore more.

Trail maps for most of the discovered ruins are provided by the government. But I enjoyed getting on my own path and discovering one relic after another. Walking on stone paths near the shore fringed by giant precipitous rocks on one side and by Tungabhadra on the other is an experience like no other.

But amidst the ruins and hill-top temples don’t forget the villages of Hampi. They are filled with cattle, local life, and endless paddy fields. Find the Sanapur lake and either jump in or climb boulders.

One week is recommended to explore Hampi.

Places to stay in Hampi: Gowri cottages near Sanapur lake (I stayed here but it doesn’t seem to be functional now), Abhi Homestay Hampi , Vinayaka homestay , Srinivasa homestay , and Banana farm house . If you like none of these, scroll through all the Hampi guest houses here .

How to reach: By road or take a train to Hospet (Hampi is a small rickshaw ride from here).

9. Daroji Bear Sanctuary – India’s First Sloth Bear Sanctuary

Hampi has a bear sanctuary? An overexcited me replied to my partner while gulping down a beer in our Hampi cottage.

Yes. Tomorrow?

That’s how we ended up visiting Daroji bear sanctuary (about 80 km or 50 miles from Hampi). Founded in 1994 in the Bellary district of Karnataka, Daroji is home to at least 130 sloth bears. The reserve was formed when the forest department started getting complaints of bears attacking children and adults alike. What could the bears do? Their homes — that is the boulder-filled Hampi villages in whose caves and foliage they lived — had started seeing too many visitors and local dwellers. The guards and the farmers there still tell stories of bears trespassing farmlands at night to steal sugarcanes and other sweet produce.

Now bears have a sweet tooth, don’t they?

What is a  sloth bear ? Found in lower hills and dense forests, sloth bears are thinner than brown and Asian black bears. With a rough mane, a shaggy fur, and a slow gait, sloth bears were first thought of as sloths but then someone in the sane mind saw the sloth bear size and figured.

This 8000 hectare protected land can be entered by paying 500 rupees for your car. The drive from Hampi is 2 hours long.

The best time to visit the sanctuary is around 5 pm when the bears come out to lick the honey off rocks. Bring a good camera and enjoy. And thank you for not being noisy.

Ask the guards how did the honey end up there.

My guide to Daroji sanctuary , its history, about sloth bears, and visiting tips is a good read before going here.

10. Sakleshpur – The Land of Tea

I think I have visited Sakleshpur, the land of tea, coffee, and spices twice. But I can’t be sure. The rolling velvety green hills in Sakleshpur could be befooling me in believing I was there more than once. The number of visits doesn’t matter for I still haven’t explored Sakleshpur well.

But I can tell you Sakleshpur is a hill station in the Western Ghats mountain range of Karnataka. The slopes of this hill station are dense with tea, coffee, and spice plantations. The 18th-century Manjarabad Fort sits on top of one hill.

I remember taking two rooms with my friends in a simple accommodation. We had local food and walked around the market. During the day we explored the hills and plantations. My memory starts fading here.

Research tells me that Bisle Reserve Forest and Jenukallu Gudda peak are two good places to visit in Sakleshpur. The town’s location and geography make it one of the best trekking places in Karnataka.

Check out these places to stay in Sakleshpur.

How to reach: By road or rail.

11. Panchapalli Dam, Bettamugilalam Village, and Driving Through Aiyur Forest – Lush Views (Though these places are in Tamil Nadu I had already added them here without realizing it. Feel free to explore.)

“You are not supposed to be sitting on this side of the waterhole.” An angry old man shouted at us in half Hindi, half Tamil, and English. Hand gestures accompanied too.

“Why? We saw other people going from here.”

“You can’t be here. Elephants come here to drink water.”

“Oh. We thought we can come until here.”

This conversation with an un-uniformed man near the waterhole in Aiyur forest didn’t go as smoothly as I have presented it now. When the person — who I still wonder if he was the guard — saw us sitting near the waterhole he shouted from the roadside at us. We couldn’t understand what he was saying and as we had seen people on our side of the muddy pond we didn’t know what we had done.

Tip to the forest officers — please put signboards in 2 languages warning people of dangers and their limits.

Learning as a traveler —   don’t venture in the forest without asking the guards there.

Well that Aiyur forest which lay on our way from Bangalore to Panchapalli dam contains the Denkanikottai village. None of these places are well-known. Not a lot of people go to the dam or other destinations I mention here. There was no forest guard near the natural pond. We hadn’t seen any officer on our way through the entire forest. But where we sat lay a lot of elephant poop still in the process of drying.

I had a great day chasing the blue marker of this dam and the village on my Google maps. For the full travel guide read my travelogue of the Panchapalli and Bettamugilalam drive .

We also visited the small Bettamugilalam village — which is at a height of 3000 m. Bettamugilalam was a small gorgeous village where neon pastures were dotted with colorful mud huts. Jackfruit and pipal trees were ample. And under the trees bright idols and temples stood shining.

To visit the Panchapalli dam we had to trace our way back to Denkanikottai (Aiyur forest). We arrived near the dam around late afternoon to find it completely dry.

We turned around from the dam and parked our car to find a trail into the lush pasture we had seen before. Walking downhill amidst hundreds of cows, one of whom had diarrhea, we arrived into the arms of the pasture. We only climbed up when the sun was about to set. What a day it was!

Oh did I forgot to mention the dark pink lotus lake and the Indian blue rollers flying above.

Pro Tip: On your Karnataka trip, drive, cycle, or run around in the monsoon and post-monsoon season. There can be only fewer pleasures in life.

12. Chikmagalur – The Land of Coffee

Coffee plantations, swaying silver oaks, green grasslands, endless velvety mountains, thick forests, blue lakes, forest reserves, rivers and dams, ancient temples, hills to hike — what can one not find in Chikmagalur, a hill station district on the Western Ghats of Karnataka.

About a five hour drive away from Bangalore (oh on this note let me request please don’t be angry with me for measuring every place from Bengaluru as that was my residence in Karnataka), Chikmagalur town is at a height of 1000 meters. It gets hot in March and April but as soon as the rain sets in the mountains become misty and the lands turn green.

We recently spent a month in Chikmagalur after the serious lockdowns of the first COVID wave. The main Chikmagalur town is surrounded by various villages and we were in the Chikkolale area. In that one month, I saw and explored so many places of this hilly region that I have to write about 20 guides just on Chikmagalur alone.

Sitting in our homestay swing upstairs we could see the Mullayanagiri peak — the highest peak of Karnataka — on a clear day. And if it got too rainy we would open up a bottle of homemade fig wine made from the figs of the old tree in the house itself.

The hills of Chikmagalur are interconnected and one can hike to one hill from another. But most of our efforts to trek there failed because the forest department had closed those hikes for the time. Travelers had been lost and a story about a leopard attacking a tourist had not helped either. The forest officer told us they were soon about to set up a tourism community under which they would officialize all trails and appoint guides and guards for each one of them. But for the time we had to confine to hiking around on our own only in open mountains (except this one time when we went through a jungle trail).

Here is the Blue Bell homestay we stayed at. Foothills homestay, Memories of Malnad , and Leisure homestay all look really nice too.

Pro Tip: Oh, I forgot to mention that the Fishland restaurant of Chikmagalur town is not to be missed, given you eat seafood, my only sin. Swiggy and Zomato work around the main town up to a distance. Just saying. No pressure.

how to reach: By road. The nearest railway station from Chikmagalur is 45-minute from the town.

13. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – The Wild Thrives Here

The first time I entered the big room of River Tern Jungle Lodge, I saw the bellowing Bhadra river in front of me. The mountains on the horizon were faintly visible. We were on an island   and only on my far left could I see other huts scattered sparingly. Later I walked over a hanging bridge to get to another island to eat a large buffet. After stuffing ourselves on fried fish and sambhar (I also plucked ripe bananas right from the bunch hung in the dining), we made our way to the reception where a jeep awaited us to take us into the deep Bhadra wildlife sanctuary, home to leopards, tigers, bears, elephants, and other wild animals.

It could be all made up. Believe if you have to.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was the final cherry on our one-month Chikmagalur trip. The reserve is 80 km (50 miles) from the town of Chikmagalur and the drive took us almost two hours.

Bhadra river is also good for short swims and kayaking because the crocodiles are not close to the edge. River Tern Jungle lodge is an expensive accommodation but the stay includes all meals (which are too many and too heavy), two jungle safaris, a bird walk, and bonfires, etc.

This documentary on Bhadra Tiger Reserve by the Karnataka Forest Department is a joy to watch.

Pro Tip: Do not take the massage from the therapy center at the Bhadra jungle lodges. Do not.

14. Temples of Belur and Halebidu — The Best Examples of the Royal Architecture of Karnataka Empires

While roaming around the Hoysala temples of these villages, with a Nikon in hand, and curiosity in my heart, I could never take a moment of rest. Although I had the whole day on my hand, the wall carvings and the intricate stonework of the temples studded with deities left me dumbfounded.

How can one make such structures now? Beautiful, marvelous, amazing were some of the overused adjectives that left my mouth. And I have seen my fair share of temples around the world.

The Hoysala Empire ruled the present Karnataka between the 10th and the 14th centuries. The capital of the Hoysalas was initially located at  Belur  but was later moved to  Halebidu . Now what remains of their royal Hoysala architecture is these temples and shrines. 12th century Kannada inscriptions peak from every wall, and most of these are engraved with gods, goddesses, and demons each telling a story.

The towns are an hour’s drive away from Chikmagalur. My guide to the Belur and Halebidu temples provides all the travel information (coming up).

If the myriads of temples tire you out, do consider staying in the villages. KSTDC Hotel Mayura Shantala Halebeedu looks like a good option for both destinations. Bring high-resolution camera.

how to reach: by road or by train to Hassan which is 40 km from Belur.

15. Sharavathi Valley (Shimogga and Jog Falls) — A Green Luscious Karnataka Valley Facing Ecological Threat

Everyone has only heard of the 253-meter high Jog Falls of the Sharavathi Valley in Karnataka but no one knows the Sharavathi Valley has about 431 square km of dense evergreen forest. This protected Sharavathi sanctuary is full of azure lakes, obscure hikes, wildlife, waterfalls tucked away in high hills, and remote villages. Sharavathi is one of the most unexplored of the tourist places of Karnataka. In fact, most people don’t even know what is Sharavathi.

When I went to Sharavathi at the end of the year 2019, I didn’t know I needed to take visit permissions from the forest department in the Shimoga city. Also known as Shivamogga, Shimoga is the headquarters of the Shimoga district that contains the Shravathi valley. At that time I didn’t understand why I needed permits to visit waterfalls and lakes from the forest department. But when I drove to some of these natural places I understood that it was all under protection.

Sharavathi river flows through Shivamogga and the Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka for about 128 km (80 miles). But several dams have been formed over this river and its ecological system is under serious threat now. The reserve’s area is divided into core zone, buffer zone, and tourism zone.

Watch the below video if you want to know more about the damages done by the thoughtless developments around the Sharavathi river.

Now a valley where one needs permission from the forest department for almost every lake, backwaters, or waterfall can be imagined to be very untouched and wild. We would start driving on Sharavathi roads and for kilometers wouldn’t find any village or habitation. There was no one to ask as we don’t speak Kannada, and most of the locals don’t speak English there.

We did visit Jog falls once and the water had receded to pretty low levels. One has to climb down 1400 steps to the bottom and climb the same number up, of course. But Jog Falls is only one of the places. My recommendation to visit the Sharavathi Valley for a complete and beautiful experience is to first go to Shimogga and take permission there. See the list of places you can visit and ask for permits for the ones you would like to see. Even homestays take tourists to places without taking any permissions but I won’t recommend that route. The guards of some of these natural places also allow entry to visitors by taking money but those visits are rushed and hushed. So please avoid the risk.

Some stay options in Sharavathi: Gundimane (highly recommended though could be a bit pricey at rooms for about 2500 per day), Sri Ranga homestay (I’ve stayed here and recommend the homestay), Ibbani homestay , and Sugamya farm guesthouse.

 One of my most amazing experiences in Sharavathi was the hike to the hidden Belligundi (silver) waterfalls . Read the linked guide for the entire journey. Also, read this article on how a little lakeside picnic was enough to replace the big adventures we were hoping to have in Sharavathi.

16. Coorg — The Land of Coffee and Avocados

Avocados blended with sugar and carrying kilos of those mushy pieces of goodness home as a gift is how began my relationship with Coorg. Thanks to that homestay that  made my first home in this coffee district. Soon I started enjoying Coorg’s unique food, its long history, misty hills, stories of locals, and beautiful drives on my subsequent trips.

Coorg, now known as Kodagu, is one of the hill stations of Karnataka located in the Western Ghats. Locals and travelers flock to Coorg district and its main town Madikeri during summers and monsoon to get respite from the heat and enjoy the luscious rains of the region.

But overcrowding has affected the area negatively. I would advise all the other travel destinations of this Karnataka travel guide over Coorg anytime. Or go there in the offseason (February and March) when businesses need more help. Or choose more offbeat Coorg neighborhoods such as Stuart Hill (near Raja’s Seat ). Apart from this linked travel guide, I also have a photo essay on my slow life in Stuart Hill .

Coorgy hills are studded with coffee plantations where pepper, jackfruit, coconuts, betel nut trees, silver oaks, eucalyptus, avocados, kokum are only some of the other plants that grow in abundance. The best idea to stay would be to find a place in one of these coffee estates where you can roam inside freely.

Coorg has a long history, and its people are said to be descendants of the warrior tribe. They used to hunt the wild animals in their plantations, and they still follow most of these ancient traditions. But they are family people whom I have seen help each other all the time.

Some of my favorite places to stay in Coorg are listed in this article on guesthouses in Coorg, and my travel guide from Bangalore to Coorg tells about the destination, its culture, and important places.

How to reach: by road.

17. Namdroling Monastery — The House of the Monks in Karnataka

On your way to Coorg, do make a stop at Namdroling monastery. This monastery one of the largest Tibetan settlements in South India. The dormitory is huge and the premises are peaceful. Interested travelers who want to understand monk’s life from closeby can call and stay in the dormitory overnight. Do try. But please be respectful and quiet throughout your visit.

18. Hogenakkal Falls – And a Special Story (On the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu)

Holding the hand of my then new friend and now life partner, I sat in the coracle that whirled in the rowdy Kaveri. At a distance, the Hogenakkal falls — literally smoke over the rocks — cascaded to fall from a height of 20 meters. The frothy waters of Hogenakkal drowned all the surrounding sound and the freshwater drops splashing on our faces freshened us up.

Located at a distance of 127 km (80 miles) from Bangalore, Hogenakkal falls is a one-day trip from the city. Or a homestay or hotel can be found in the surrounding area for a longer exploration. Hogenakkal falls are formed as Kaveri enters Karnataka from Tamil Nadu, and thus the long smoky cascade of Hogenakkal is formed.

The 3-hour drive to the falls was scenic. Once at the falls, we used the public toilets and freshened up. Do carry toilet paper because the toilet is old-style. After the toilet, we straight went to the falls. From what I remember we walked over a bridge and then somehow reached the falls. At the mouth of the falls the stable rocks form perfect nature seats.

Behind the falls a further walk brings to a place where people can bath under the waterfall. But naked Indian men (with or without tight v-shaped underwear) will welcome you there so please beware. Monkeys are plenty and cattle roam the area. We also walked quite a bit on the rocks on the banks of the Kaveri and spent time seeing the old trees and the ancient Carbonite rocks.

Hundreds of flying foxes hang on those trees and towards the evening you may witness their flight into the world.

19. Shivasamudram Falls — The Ferocious One

At about 130 km (130 miles) from Bangalore, Shivasamudram makes for another exploration. Shivasamudram falls are ferocious and they fall as a combination of two — Gaganachukki Falls and Bharachukki Falls. The island town of Shivasamudram divides the Kaveri into these two falls.

The falls are located in Chamarajanagar District. The best months to visit this waterfall would be September to January.

Arriving early is the rule so you have enough time to explore.

20. Biligiriranga or BR Hills — A Wildlife Sanctuary Where I Spotted My First Ever Leopard

There he sits behind the foliage.

Where? I can’t see.

Sshh. If he hears loud voices he will leave. Let me show you.

The forest guard pointed me to the thickets in front. With an effort of many minutes and using the zoom lens of my camera I spotted the bright leopard perfectly camouflaged behind the thorny bushes. After observing his afternoon siesta for a long time, we drove on. Next we surprised a sloth bear who was just out for his evening meal. Naturally, the bear tumbled away as soon as he saw us. But I had my camera ready and I clicked. My travel guide to BR Hills tells it all.

At an altitude of 3500 feet above sea level, BR hills short for Biligiriranga hills, stand where the Western Ghats meets the Eastern Ghats, and make for an ecological hotspot. In addition to the location exoticism, the BRT wildlife sanctuary is quite large, 540 km² in the area to be precise, and is also an official tiger reserve.

BR Hills are located 179 km (112 miles) from Bangalore. On my one-day trip there I saw a leopard, sloth bears, Indian bison, monkeys and langurs, sambar deer, tortoises, eagles, owls, mongoose, and some other bird and animal life.

We were put up at the expensive Jungle Lodges. If you don’t want to stay at the jungle lodges, you can opt for one of the many BR hills guesthouses. But as they have to be booked separately from their websites, I’m putting down two properties (from Booking) that look promising: Gorukana BR hills resorts  and  this KSTDC hotel  (both with great reviews).

We visited during February end – the peak summer. Maybe our timing was perfect and that was why we could spot so many animals.

How to reach: By road is the best way.

Pro Tip : BR hills is also a good place for hiking. The locals and the forest officials will be able to provide more information.

21. Gokarna — A Coastal Karnataka Town With Calm Indian Ocean

He pulled my legs from the sea bed and I fell. But in the multiple trials before this one, I had learned how to float on my back. Effortlessly within seconds, I was on my back this time too. I gazed at the blue sky above me. The calm Indian ocean swayed me from side to side as a mother sways her child while singing her a lullaby. Swimming must be fun, I thought. I floated for more than an hour and decided to learn how to swim properly.

Floating in the sea is my strongest memory from Gokarna. Oh, I also remember eating grilled squids and other sea animals on the shacks there.

The beach town of Gokarna is located on the Southern coast of India. Though I have ventured into very obscure parts of Karnataka, I haven’t been to most of the beaches of Karnataka. But that’s going to change soon and the later posts of the blog will tell why.

On my three days in the town I stayed near the ocean almost all the time. Three beaches of Gokarna are most popular but no one talks about the mountains surrounding these known shores. My partner who visited the town with his friends boasts of many trails going through the surrounding hills. Who knows which one will bring you to a hidden beach?

Make Gokarna an adventure. Coconut Tree Resort , Namaste Yoga Farm , Viraz Valley , and Deva Samudra beach stay .

I highly recommend this place to stay in Gokarna but here are some other options.

How to reach: Gokarna is well-connected by road but the nearest train station and airport is a bit away.

22. Davanagere – If nothing, stop for the Davanagere Benne dosa

As soon as the bite of the buttery dosa touched our tongue, a satisfactory cry left our mouths. The mild coconut chutney and the creamy potato mash accompanied the dosa pretty well. Life seemed complete in those moments.

We accidentally stopped by the Davanagere town during our long road trip from Bangalore to Mumbai, and further on to the Himalayas through Uttar Pradesh. Once in the town, we realized we can’t leave without tasting the dosa that’s named after the town.

Davanagere must be visited just for the Davanagere benne dosa. Benne means butter. My long piece on Karnataka dosa is testimony to the goodness of these crunchy pancakes but Davanagere butter dosa was a level above all dosas I have had.

I’m sure the town will have other things to do but first eat the dosa and then figure out.

See what our early morning hunt for dosa brought us to.

How to reach: Davanagere is well connected with entire Karnataka.

23. Kolar — Temples, Boulders, and Caves

Getting down into the cave formed by the boulders, I wondered how much we will never see. This little boy walked ahead showing us the way into the cave. He didn’t think we would make it as he expected us not to be slow but to start jumping around the rocks, as he had since his childhood. But there we were, being fumbly and clumsy. We saw all he had to show though.

Capital of the  Western Gangas who ruled between 350 to 550 CE, Kolar is now known for its milk production, gold mines, and several ancient temples and caves. 70 km (44 miles) from Bangalore, the town of Kolar is easily accessible by public transport also. Some of the places we visited are Anthargange temple, Somnatheshwar temple, and some caves through hikes from the hilltop. You don’t have to worry about finding the caves as many locals, even small kids, act as guides to these hidden points. But make sure to hire a guide who seems trustworthy as many people wander there claiming to guide and incessantly pester travelers to hire them.

The view of the valley from the summit of Kolar hills is panoramic.

How to reach: Buses run until Kolar but there isn’t a railway station in town.

T ravel tip: If you are in Bangalore, do visit Basavanagudi . This old part of Bangalore town is full of ancient temples, caves, and parks dense with flying foxes. Oh, the South Indian food eateries there are some of the best in town.

Another Karnataka travel tip: I have also written about the organic stores for grocery shopping in Bangalore . And places to stay in Bangalore (personal recommendations) are listed in the attached link.

Pro travel tips for seeing Bangalore: Some of the must-see places in Bangalore are Cubbon Park , Lal Bagh, Koshy’s, Indian Coffee House, HSR Agara lake, and Shivaji Nagar. I may sound cliche but these places do give a general and historical sense of Bangalore. Take the metro from MG Road to somewhere. Walk around the town as much as you can. Sip coconuts and try gol gappas (fried fluffed breads filled with spicy water) wherever you find. MTR restaurants also serve delightful traditional dosa and South Indian delicacies. Exploring the Bangalore Palace area on foot is a great way to get to know the city. And many people run heritage walks through Bangalore. Try BangaloreWalks , Unventured , Klook , GetYourGuide, ToursbyLocals , and BangaloreCityTour .

Two properties where I love to stay in Bangalore are: Casa Cottage (for heritage and the garden) and Misty Meridian Serviced Apartments (for comfort, space, kitchen, and the sweet owner).

Here are the best restaurants near MG Road Bangalore .

Some of the other best visiting places in Karnataka are Manchinbele dam, Savandurga hill, and Channapatna town popular for toys. A few coastal places on my list are Udupi, Mangalore, and Murudeshwar. Bandipur, Kabini, and Nagarhole National Park are some more national reserves I haven’t seen. More historic temples are found at Pattadakal, Badami, and Aihole. There is the Nrityagram dance village and Yelahanka weavers, just to name a couple of artists and artisans of the state. And then the area has infinite possibilities for drives and hikes to be done.

I realize that even after wandering around Karnataka for months I may have only touched it slightly. We can keep talking about the Karnataka attractions but the more we see the longer the list seems to become. Let’s get on then for we have further to go.

This pine plantation under which I’m sitting (and writing this piece) near my guesthouse in Chindi village is quite young. With the loud wind, the pine supporting my back sways too. First I felt an earthquake was coming because everything shook. But I guess it was just the pine doing la-la-la-la-la.

Follow Up Read: Guide to Finding Affordable and Good Indian homestays and Tips on Searching Guesthouses in India

Languages Spoken in Karnataka

The official language of the state is Kannada and about 70 percent population of Karnataka speaks Kannada. But the state has some 50 tribal languages and 22 scheduled languages in the state. Other major languages spoken are Urdu (9.72%), Telugu (8.34%), Marathi (3.95%), Tamil (3.82%), Malayalam (1.69%), Tulu (3.38%), and Hindi (1.87%).

Yes, India is a bit crazy when it comes to languages.  

Given neither my out-of-the-station friends nor I speak Kannada, we found it hard to communicate in villages and rural Karnataka. Even in urban setups, a lot of locals don’t speak English. We had difficulty coordinating with cab drivers, bus drivers, local shops, and even fancy tourist places. 

You may find yourself stepping down into a cave in Kolar and your guide may not understand you feel claustrophobic. Or no matter how much you tell your cleaning lady you were asleep when she had rung the bell, she may not understand. And you won’t be able to figure out that it was not the cab driver’s fault he took the route he did.

But we survived, and we survived joyously. 

While traveling you won’t have a language problem in designated Karnataka tourist destinations and hotels at major travel spots. But as soon as you venture out of the known travel trail, get ready to use hand gestures to communicate. 

Pro travel tip for a long trip in Karnataka — Download offline Kannada language file and use the Google translate application. Its voice feature works wonders.

Weather in Karnataka (What are the best times for visiting places in Karnataka)

Karnataka is a Southern state of India. It gets hot during most parts of the year. But as the state is cradled by the Western ghat mountains on the west side, the temperature of those hilly regions mostly stays low. The long coast of Karnataka gets humid and sultry for the entire year as well. 

The capital Bangalore with an elevation of 920 meters enjoys pleasant weather during the entire year except for March and April when it gets considerably hot and dry. 

Central Bangalore has similar weather to central and northern states of India except the minimum temperature there only falls to 10 degrees versus 3-4 degrees in the Northern Indian plateau. 

Given the diverse climate, some parts of Karnataka can always be visited. So we traveled to the hilly regions of Coorg and Chikmagalur in the summer months of June and July when these coffee estates receive heavy rainfall. And central Karnataka was best-visited post-monsoon to February. Coastal towns are also pleasant from October to February. 

Every part of Karnataka will have a different best time to visit, and I have talked about those in the individual destinations above. 

Karnataka Food – My Most Important Reason to Travel to Karnataka

Karnataka food would be a new and enthralling experience for someone who has not eaten in any of the South Indian states. Here dosa, idli, vada, rice, millets, and bananas are a staple. 

I have written an extensive piece on the dosas of Karnataka . And apart from these crunchy companions, jowar (sorghum) roti meals, bonda soups, idli plates, non-vegetarian delicacies, seafood, and a plethora of rice preparations are common too. Chapati is eaten less, and sweets are rice-based too. 

I will only be able to do justice to Karnataka food in a separate article dedicated to the cuisine itself. So for now please be happy with these places to eat in Bangalore and the dosa article above. The food write-up will be sent your way soon. 

Enjoy these pictures of the food of Karnataka.

How to Travel Around the Various Karnataka Destinations? Transport in Karnataka.

Karnataka is well-connected by road. Buses and trains cover large parts of the state. Sometimes one may have to change many buses to reach their destination. But you can’t reach everywhere by public transport in Karnataka. Only a car can drive to remote valleys and obscure places. That’s why booking chauffeur-driven cabs is also common in Karnataka. Earlier we used to hire private taxis but now Ola and Uber also run intrastate travel cabs. A quick Google search bring up taxi numbers and call a few to check for prices and service quality. 

Having said that,  Redbus is a good website to book buses and this Indian railway government site is helpful to find train schedules and IRCTC for getting train tickets. Hitchhiking also works in Karnataka but make sure you are not alone and preferably find a family car to join in.

Flights connect only some major cities such as Mysore, Bangalore, Mangalore, Hubli, and Belgaum. Beyond these big cities, air connectivity is low in Karnataka. (Though several new domestic airports are coming up.)

Now to Travel Safety in Karnataka

Karnataka is considered a pretty safe state. Well, at least that is the response you will get from someone like me who has come from Uttar Pradesh and spent a lot of time in Rajasthan, Delhi, and other Northern areas. 

If we go by the  Wikipedia list of Indian states by crime , Karnataka is number 14 with 250 crimes per .1 million people. But the same statistics present Uttar Pradesh’s crime records to be 262 per .1 million too. I don’t know how much should I trust this list. 

In Bangalore, one can be out and about until late at night. But if you are a solo woman traveler, avoid getting out at night. During the day all roads and streets are fine. In a group, of course, you are even good at night. 

Traveling on the road in your vehicle at any hour is perfectly okay in Karnataka. Roads are pretty nice, and no one will bother you. If you use public transport, reserve seats in air-conditioned buses (for night travel) and feel free to choose any kind of bus for day travel. For trains, third-class air-conditioned coaches will ensure a safe journey. In the general compartments of the trains, woman travelers can get some unwanted attention, especially if traveling alone. So try the air-conditioned compartments. But during the day mostly everything is fine. 

Hitchhiking is also possible in Karnataka. Just make sure to get into a family car to avoid any mishaps. If you are getting into taxis alone, try getting a known driver through the help of your hotel or homestay hosts.  

Even in most rural villages people are looking forward to helping and not take advantage of anyone’s situation. The language gap does pose a barrier, but one has to maneuver her way around. 

I hope this helps.

A Serendipitous Stop in Karnataka Near Nandi Hills

Searched For Big Adventures, Satisfied With a Little Lakeside Picnic – In Karnataka’s Sharavathi Valley

Sunlit and Slow Living in Coorg’s Stuart Hill – In Photos

On Stuart Hill in Madikeri Coorg: Nothing To Do But So Much To Do

Celebrating My Parrot Mithu With Photos of Indian Parrots

My Best Bangalore Hotels, Apartments, and Homestays (Stayed At Each)

Who Knew Basavanagudi in Bangalore Could Be So Beautiful

Cubbon Park – Bangalore’s Eye Candy and My Green Oasis

Best Restaurants Near MG Road Bangalore – Adventures of My Belly

Did you like my Karnataka travel guide? What are some of your best places in Karnataka? Let me know in the comments.

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Karnataka Tour packages

The perfect introduction to South India, Karnataka offers a compelling experience with its unique blend of modernity and convention.

Situated in the South-Western region of India, Karnataka tour packages attract tourists with their offer of experiencing the rich culture, enriching traditions, and glorious history of this state. Ranked among the most popular tourist states in India, Karnataka tour packages have a lot of attractions for visitors to explore. Tourism in Karnataka is famous for the picturesque landscapes, cultural heritage, and conventional craftsmanship that you can explore when you opt for Karnataka holiday packages. 

Also, this sophisticated state is a flourishing hub for outdoor, adventure, and water sports activities which attract a lot of adventure enthusiasts to plan their own tour itinerary to Karnataka. Another reason for the popularity of the state is the abundance of Karnataka temple tours, as the state is home to around 34,000 temples and several nationally protected monuments that are major sightseeing spots in Karnataka. With a rich history and cultural diversity, Karnataka holds an esteemed position on the Indian map. It also has many amazing hill stations, including Chikmagalur, Nandi Hills, and Coorg, which you can opt to add at cost-effective prices to your Karnataka holiday packages. With a history that tells the story of the rule of several great dynasties, such as the Chalukyas, Hoysala, and Rastrakutas, there are many heritage places in Karnataka, which are great tourist attractions to add to your tour itinerary of Karnataka. At Veena World, we offer quintessential Karnataka tour packages online at cost-effective prices for you to visit and explore the rich cultural heritage and diversity that this state has to offer.

Karnataka Travel Packages

10 karnataka holiday packages.

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Karnataka Frequently Asked Questions

We help you prepare for your trip and ensure an effortless and enjoyable travel experience.

Which is the most beautiful city in Karnataka?

There are a lot of cities in Karnataka that are beautiful and charming. This is mainly due to the fact that the entire state is blessed with unruffled natural beauty wherever you go. Tourism in Karnataka is always booming as travellers have plenty of unexplored tourist destinations that are still tucked away in the different corners of this vibrant state. Keeping this in mind, there are several cities where you can spend time with your loved ones in Karnataka. Our recommendations include Mangalore, Coorg, and Hampi for making the most of untouched natural surroundings. For cultural experiences, cities like Mysore and Bangalore would be perfect. An off-beat trip in Karnataka can also include Gokarna, a small town that happens to be a perfect blend of historical significance and natural beauty.

How to book a tour to Karnataka?

The best way to book one of the best tour packages to Karnataka is by getting in touch with travel experts at Veena World. We offer the most exciting travel itineraries to our patrons that can be easily customized according to your personal preferences. The benefit of booking a travel package with us is that you will not have to worry about any aspect of your vacation. We will ensure that your transportation, accommodations, and other travel-related bookings are taken care of. It is best to book a travel package to Karnataka in advance as most of the tourist places in this state get sold out very quickly. Hence, you should check out tour packages to Karnataka on our website and choose one that suits you the best.

Do you provide a customized holiday to Karnataka?

Veena World is known for its customizable sightseeing packages to Karnataka. We ensure that you are able to plan your vacation based on your personal preferences, budget, and time duration. Keeping these factors in mind, our highly experienced travel experts plan out the most exciting sightseeing packages to Karnataka’s popular tourist destinations. You can check out the itineraries of the available tour packages for Karnataka on our website. In case you wish to make changes to your travel itinerary, then you can speak with our team and get the necessary changes done.

What is the best time to visit Karnataka?

Karnataka is blessed with diverse landscapes, coastal areas, hill stations, terrains, and topographical features. Thus, it is a destination that can be visited in any season or month, year-round. However, the peak tourist season is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, making sightseeing convenient for travellers. Also, the best time to visit Karnataka depends on the places you want to see in the state and where you wish to stay. Veena World offers Karnataka tourism packages in affordable price ranges, allowing you to enjoy your time like never before.

Is there anything important while visiting temples in Karnataka?

Karnataka is a famous tourist destination and a place that has conserved its historical significance and cultural heritage around modern settings. Here, the glorious temples are not only places of worship but also architectural structures, representing glorious history, traditions, and cultural heritage. On your next trip to Karnataka or the temples in Karnataka, do not forget to visit Aihole, a historical site in Bagalkot, Karnataka. Aihole is home to more than 125 magnificent temples and monuments. You can book one of the best Karnataka honeymoon packages from Veena World and get to explore all magnificent temples and seek divine blessings to give a perfect start to your life together.

How safe is travelling in Karnataka?

Travelling in Karnataka is absolutely safe for tourists. The Department of Tourism and the government of Karnataka are taking all vital safety measures to ensure the utmost safety of tourists. These safety protocols create a safe environment for visitors to travel across the state. It is compulsory for tourists arriving from any state to carry vaccination certificates or RT-PCR negative reports. You can book one of the best Karnataka holiday packages from Veena World and get ready to visit this beautiful destination and the largest state in South India.

What is the approximate budget for Karnataka tours?

Your approximate budget depends on multiple factors, such as the number of days you will be visiting Karnataka, the number of people travelling with you, the kind of itinerary you choose, and all activities you indulge in. To keep it simpler and easier, you are advised to choose different Karnataka tour packages available with us. These packages are cost-effective and will allow you to experience Karnataka at its best.

Where to stay In Karnataka?

Your hotel accommodation is included in the Karnataka package you book at Veena World. We have tie-ups with some of the best hotels and resorts in Karnataka to ensure a comfortable stay. Your accommodation can be on a twin or triple sharing basis or in a single occupancy room depending on your requirements and the size of the group. All your meals, including breakfast, lunch, and evening snacks are also included in the package. You can get in touch with our travel experts if you have any special preferences in terms of your hotel stay.

Which is the best month to plan for Karnataka tours?

The best time to book the Karnataka package is from October to April. Winters are ideal for going on a wildlife safari or attending the majestic Mysore Dasara. Karnataka is quite warm and moist during the summer months of April to June due to its proximity to the western coast. While the coasts are hotter, hill stations are mildly colder. In fact, the perfect time to visit Karnataka is determined by the time of year and the destination. Some areas experience heavy rainfall during the monsoons, which runs from July to September, but if you would like to go trekking in places like Antara Gange or see the wonderful Jog Falls, there's no better time than the monsoons.

How to reach Karnataka?

Since Karnataka is well connected to almost all the Indian cities, it is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. However, it totally depends on your current location, its connectivity to Karnataka, and how much time you are willing to spare for travelling. If you wish to save time, you may choose to go by flight, if you wish to keep it affordable, travelling by train is a viable option. And you may choose to go by road if you have time and want to experience a wholesome road trip. Our advice would be to get in touch with our travel expert and get a comprehensive tour to Karnataka planned so that your travel to Karnataka is taken care of by professionals.

Get to know more about Karnataka before booking your tour packages

With Karnataka packages being so popular online, there is no doubt that the state is a prominent travel destination, attracting visitors from across the world. Tourism to the state is famous for the exquisite Karnataka temple tours, ancient ruins, and monuments, as well as for its silk, sandalwood, and food, which are also the major source for tourism in Karnataka. The religious flavour and apparent spirituality tend to leave a lasting impression on tourists who visit for a temple tour of Karnataka. From the revered monasteries to exquisite temples, the state is a route of enlightenment for several spiritual tourists, which speaks a lot for the popularity of Karnataka temple tour packages online. Karnataka is also home to some of the finest and most picturesque waterfalls, scenic beaches, evergreen forests, and mountains that appear to be engulfed by the clouds, making honeymoon packages in Karnataka quite popular among newlyweds.

The largest state in   South India, Karnataka has a number of attractions spread across its 30 districts. The right itinerary for Karnataka packages can offer a diverse range of spots and locations for all kinds of travellers, regardless of whether you are an explorer, an adventurer, or just interested in the temple tour packages to Karnataka. In Karnataka, the festival celebrations also display a great level of passion and devotion that offers a completely new perspective to travellers who travel with family tour packages in Karnataka. By experiencing the fairs and festivals of the state, visitors get a deeper perspective of the rituals followed by the locals. While the official language of the state is Kannada, Kodava, Konkani, and Tulu are some other native languages that are spoken here. Hindi and English are also widely spoken in Karnataka. There are several reasonably priced Karnataka holiday packages online at Veena World that can help you get familiar with the golden culture of the state and explore the best of destinations with carefully designed Karnataka vacation packages.

Experience Karnataka

Home to exemplary nature and history, Karnataka is an ideal destination to explore temples, forts, and palaces. On a tour to this beautiful state, tourists can discover more about the culture, art, and architecture of the Cholas, Hoysalas, and Chalukyas. The rich cultural heritage has been constantly evolving with the efforts and contributions of several empires. Karnataka music, painting, architecture, literature, art, and folklore have had a great impact on people. Most family tour packages in Karnataka offer visitors a glimpse into the art and culture of this state. If you want a more complete experience of the state, you can book your Karnataka trip packages to include some of the most colourful festivals of the state:

• Mysore Dussehra - Organised as Nada Habba, Mysore Dussehra is a major celebration in Mysore.
• Kambala -  It is an exhilarating buffalo race, which a two-day festival, held annually. The season for this festival starts in November and lasts till March.
• Ugadi -  Ugadi is also an important festival that marks the Kannada New Year.

Some other festivals celebrated in Karnataka are Nagapanchami, Makara Sankranti (the Harvest Festival), Basava Jayanti, Ramzan, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Deepavali. The fun of Karnataka sightseeing gets double when you get the chance to witness these celebrations as well.

One thing that you would be able to witness on your Karnataka travel packages is that the culture of Karnataka revolves around its art, music, dance, literature, and drama. The state is home to many ritualistic dances and diverse dance forms. Also, dance is a vital aspect of any kind of celebration in Karnataka. The Mysore style of Bharatanatyam is one of the most popular classical dance forms in India. Other major classical dances of Karnataka include Kathak and Kuchipudi.

The Cuisine

Karnataka packages are also famous for the extremely rich variety of food you will be able to try. From pure vegetarian dishes to non-vegetarian gourmet fare, cuisines in Karnataka are rich in taste and flavour. The state is also famous for the huge variety it has to offer in sambhar, dosa, and for the typical Kannadiga Oota (meal), which generally contains sambhar, rice, ghee, curry, dessert, and pickle, served on a banana leaf. Authentic Karnataka cuisine has also had a great impact on Karnataka tourism,   attracting food lovers from all over the world.

Art and Crafts

The state is also popular for its Mysore silk weaving art, wood carvings, stone carvings, doll making, sandalwood crafts, and ivory carving.

Things to Do in Karnataka

A Karnataka itinerary can offer you quite a varied experience. Here are some of the highlights of the state that you can opt to add to your Karnataka tour packages   for the perfect vacation:

• Coorg:  Nestled amidst majestic mountains with a perpetually foggy landscape, Coorg is a popular place found in many Karnataka honeymoon tour packages. It is a must-visit place for all nature lovers. Coorg is a famous coffee-producing hill station that attracts visitors with its exquisite hills, lush greenery, and breathtakingly exotic scenery. Nagarhole National Park, Raja's Seat, Abbey Falls, and rafting in Barapole River are some of the things you can add to your Karnataka honeymoon tour packages.
• Hampi:  A historical delight for visitors, Hampi, located in the shaded depths of hills and valleys, is another great addition for your Karnataka holiday tour packages. Surrounded by bustling street markets, ancient monuments, a treasury building, beautiful temples, and the bastions and ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi should definitely be on your list of   sightseeing places in Karnataka. The Lotus Palace, Hampi Bazaar, Hippie Island, and Vithala Temple are some of the key places in Hampi that you can add to your honeymoon packages in Karnataka.
• Bangalore:  Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is one of the biggest cities. It can be made a part of your   Karnataka itinerary simply for its beautiful lakes and pleasant weather. Also, the city is home to many quirky cafes, eateries, pubs, street food corners, and coffee roasters, offering cuisines from across the world. Most Karnataka tourism packages include Bangalore Palace, UB City Mall, Cubbon Park, Lal Bagh, and Bannerghatta National park.
• Mysore:  Located at the foothills of Chamundi Hills, Mysore is a major part of Karnataka tourism. Although the city has become industrialised, it has not lost its conventional appeal. There are many significant places such as Chamundi Hills, St. Philomena’s Church, Brindavan Garden, and a lot more that can be added to your honeymoon packages in Karnataka.
• Gokarna:  With exquisite landscapes and pristine beaches, Gokarna is a Hindu pilgrimage site and a part of several Karnataka temple tour packages. Also, it is an ideal place for beach lovers. Located on the Karwar coast, Gokarna is a quaint town in Karnataka, mainly famous for its beaches and temples and can be added to your Karnataka tourism packages with prices   that are on the affordable side.

Best Time to Visit Karnataka

• October to April:  The best time to visit Karnataka is from October to April. The winters are a great time to attend the grand festival of Mysore Dussera and to enjoy a wildlife safari. However, being a peak season in the state, you might find Karnataka tourism packages with prices a bit on the higher side.
• July to September:  Though some regions in Karnataka receive heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, travellers who enjoy trekking and are interested in witnessing the exquisite Jog Falls should choose the monsoons for booking their Karnataka trip packages.
• April to June:  Due to its vicinity to the western coast, Karnataka gets quite humid during the summers, so the availability of Karnataka tourism packages with prices on the lower side is pretty much guaranteed. While the coastal parts are hotter, Karnataka hill stations are colder, so you can book your Karnataka trip packages   accordingly.

All in all, the best time to visit this beautiful state would depend on the destinations that you have included in your Karnataka travel packages.

hungryoungwoman

How to Plan a Karnataka Itinerary for First Timers

Last Updated on November 10, 2020 by hungryoungwoman

In August of 2019, I was invited to be part of the first Karnataka International Travel Expo from Karnataka Tourism. I’ve just visited Bangalore earlier but the cities we were asked to explore post the expo just opened up my mind about the state in India. Here’s everything you need to plan out a Karnataka itinerary if you are a first-timer.

As a disclosure, I was provided accommodation and travel as complimentary but I only post my honest opinions on Hungryoungwoman that remain unbiased.

Firstly, we visited Karnataka for about a week. In this course of time, we covered Bangalore, Mysore, Bandipur, and Coorg. There were packages that allowed for more places of interest in Karnataka to be covered but as we like slow traveling, we opted for this one.

To give a brief about this state, Karnataka is located in South India just above Kerala, the southernmost state in the country. The official language of Karnataka is Kannada but retail stores and most famous tourist places in Karnataka will have people speaking in English so it is not a problem to converse when you are traveling there.

There are currently 2 international airports in Karnataka; namely in Bangalore and Mangalore and a few in the works. We arrived at Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore which is quite modern in my opinion. I am comparing this to the only other airport I have seen in India which is in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Getting a visa for Karnataka is the same process as any Indian state and it is easily available online.

I am a sole believer in planning in advance. I research, find places to stay and explore in advance, as well as download any information that can help before/during the trip. An itinerary is very important to maintain and stick to especially if you are short on days or money.

Following is a 7 day itinerary for Karnataka that can be broken down into 3 days or even 2 days trip in Karnataka by choosing the location you’d like to visit.

Ideally, these holiday destinations in Karnataka should be located close to each other when you are visiting for a shorter time. Say, for example, a perfect itinerary including tourist places in Karnataka for 3 days can start in Bangalore, then Bandipur, and end in Mysore where you can fly off from there.

This includes

Tips for a holiday in Karnataka for first-timers

The best way to travel in Karnataka or most of India is to hire tuk-tuks or most commonly known as auto/auto rikshaw there. If you look like a typical tourist, drivers will try to rip you off. Since I have Indian roots myself, this is usually easy for me but some drivers can easily know I am a tourist as I can’t speak their language.

A handy tip is to check the distance of the place you need to travel to in advance. Do not, and I repeat, do not give drivers anything more than INR 200. No ride costs that much or the driver wouldn’t take you if the distance is that long.

An auto driver had ripped off a member of our tour group by charging him INR 1500 for one way and another INR 1500 back! Please don’t be that person who pays without knowing

Always bargain with drivers and try to negotiate the price to at least 50-70% of what is quoted.

What to Pack for Holiday Destinations in Karnataka

Some simple things I always have in my bag when traveling to India:

• Light clothes like thin material pants and tees
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sanitizing wipes

Karnataka Itinerary 

With seven days in Karnataka, we spent 3 days in Bangalore, 1 day in Mysore, 1 day in Bandipur, and 2 days in Coorg.

There are a number of cities in Karnataka each different in its own way. Broadly speaking, I’d categorize them into famous cities, cities for wildlife and nature, and for culture and history.

I chose to do a mixture of both tourist spots in Karnataka and the wildlife/ nature tour. If you are a history and culture fan, then visit cities like Hampi, Udupi, Hassan, and Bijapur.

We were a mixed group of about 20 people from different parts of the world traveling on a bus. Although we made a good number of friends on this trip, my husband and I realized that traveling in a group is not for us.

Sure, making friends while traveling is a good perk but adjusting according to an itinerary designed by someone else and people holding up others is not exactly fun for me. I have decided to come back later and enjoy my favorite places to travel in Karnataka alone.

Important Places in Karnataka – Bangalore City Tour 

I’ve been to Bangalore a couple of times before but this was with family and I didn’t get to have a Bangalore sightseeing tour then. However, those two times I actually spent time shopping at local street shops and trying street food.

The food in Bangalore is delicious! I’ve also named it as one of the best food cities in Asia, check it here!

When compared to the tourist attractions in Bangalore, I loved the previous visits as it required interacting with and living life as locals do.

Some of the main places to visit around Bangalore are Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Bannerghatta Biological Park, these are two famous natural places to visit in Bangalore.

Our visit to Bannerghatta Biological Park was an extremely educational one. We stopped at the Bannerghatta Nature Camp by Jungles Lodges and Resorts (JLR)

JLR are state-owned properties that provide for basic amenities and facilities. Since we were on a trip with Karnataka Tourism, we stopped for lunches and tours at these hotels.

I do, however, have mixed reactions to the way animals are treated inside the enclosure. We found a few animals suffering from malnutrition, but according to staff regular checks and medicines are given in a customized diet for each animal.

I’d say, allot an entire day for your visit to Bannerghatta as it is located far enough from the city center and traffic in Karnataka is known to be one of the worst. However, don’t miss this especially if you like learning about animals.

Watching the tiger and bears from such close proximity is sure enthralling!

I will be writing a more detailed post about Bangalore city sightseeing soon and will update it here once I do.

If you’re thinking of taking day trips from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is a very good option. It roughly takes about an hour and a half by car. Known for breathtaking panoramic views, if you’re a beginner trekker then this can be a nice place to start.

For a more local feel of Bangalore, I suggest taking a Bangalore city tour with these packages from Get Your Guide, this particular one covers the market and Tipu Sultan’s summer palace. Click here for details .

Best Places in Karnataka for wildlife – Bandipur

Bangalore to Bandipur is almost 5 hours so I suggest spending at least a night there. This area is very popular for its national park. Most hotels offer a safari experience through the jungle with unrestricted animals. If you are a wildlife lover you will definitely enjoy this!

This was one of my favorite places to see in Karnataka during our trip. We stayed at the Country Club, this is probably the only thing I would change about our stay and next time we would look for a better lodge. The rooms were in bad condition without maintenance and we had weird issues like the electricity going on and off, the phone not working, and a breakfast that was very mediocre. Also, Wi-Fi only at the reception!

There are various options for every budget in the vicinity. For a luxurious stay, the Dhole’s Den seemed like a wonderful option as some members of our group were placed there.

For mid options, you can take look at the hotels below to look at prices and pictures.

We had a fantastic time exploring the jungle with Jungle Lodges and Resorts at the Bandipur Safari Lodge. A safari jeep with grills on windows is taken for a ride in the forest with a knowledgeable guide.

I especially liked how responsible this lodge is as they restrict guests from taking any eatables or engaging with animals. Use of flash cameras and talking loudly when you spot an animal is not allowed at all.

Hence, we found the jungle trails very clean unlike other places in India that are usually destroyed by tourists.

A typical safari lasts for about 2-3 hours and takes place early in the morning and in the afternoon after lunch.

Karnataka Trip for Indian culture – Mysore 

Next on Karnataka places to visit list is Mysore. The former capital of Karnataka and housing the Mysore Palace of the earlier ruling Wodeyar family.

For history fanatics, learning about the Wodeyar family and their curse will be interesting. This curse which targeted the family resulted in all couples being barren for around 400 years. In order to grow the royal family, an heir had to be obtained through adoption.

Other things to do in Mysore include visiting a silk factory (and buying something made of silk as a souvenir!) and seeing the Philomena Church.

Since we were only in Mysore for a day, we couldn’t visit any of their markets and the famous Tipu Sultan Palace. I visited the palace during childhood and absolutely loved the royal furniture.

Beautiful Places in Karnataka for nature – Coorg 

Other than natural tourist destinations in Karnataka like Badami and Chikmangalur, Coorg or Kodagu is a beautiful location where you can find numerous honeymoon places in Karnataka.

Most people visit to enjoy the cool climate and lush greenery but Coorg is more than that. During our stay of 2 days in Coorg, we visited the Abbey Falls and Dubare Elephant Camp (this one is again a state-owned camp)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sarah @ hungryoungwoman.com (@hungryoungwoman) on Sep 4, 2019 at 11:30pm PDT

I liked Coorg the most for a couple of reasons; unlike most hill stations in India, Coorg is not too high up and the ride does not make me nauseous or sick. Two, Coorg isn’t as well known as hill stations like Ooty or Munnar which means lesser crowds!

Some other best things to do in Coorg which I want to do when I’m back is to visit the coffee plantations, go on a trek, try doing a food tour, and stay at the luxury resort Coorg Wilderness Resort again. More about this coming soon so watch this space!

All in all, I extremely felt my trip to Karnataka was worthwhile! Karnataka was never a destination on my bucket list and I’m surprised why I didn’t think of it earlier considering how close it is to Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Nevertheless, I know I am coming back soon 🙂

Have you been to this state before? What according to you are the best tourist places in Karnataka or some Karnataka attractions that should not be missed? Let me know.

Visiting other places in India, then don’t miss reading my guides on a one day trip to Agra and Ahmedabad sightseeing 🙂

Until then, happy traveling! xx

P.S. If you want to save and read later, here are some pinnable versions 🙂

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9 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Karnataka Itinerary for First Timers ”

I loved your post. I stay in Bangalore and have been to all these places but looked so beautiful in your article.

Thank you so much! Bangalore’s a very nice place 🙂

Karnataka official language is “Kannada”

Ooh yes, don’t know how that slipped, thanks!

This looks like a FAB place to visit, I would love to enjoy that wildlife 🙂

I loved it! Now I want to see more and plan more of my trips around wildlife 🙂

I believe Karnataka is the most beautiful among all southern states. Massive coconut trees, beautiful canals and lush green forests are the gems of this place. Thanks for sharing this post and itinerary with all the readers. I am sure it will be helpful for beginners as well.

Yes, Karnataka is indeed beautiful!

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Karnataka, India

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Created in 1956 from the princely state of Mysore , Karnataka – a derivation of the word karu nadu meaning “black soil” in the local language, Kannada – marks a transition zone between central India and the Dravidian deep south.

The best travel tips for visiting Karnataka

Best places to stay in karnataka, how to get around, how many days do you need in karnataka, what is the best time to visit karnataka, festivals in karnataka, how to get here.

Along its borders with Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, a string of mediaeval walled towns studded with domed mausoleums and minarets recall the era when this part of the Deccan was a Muslim stronghold. The coastal and hill districts that dovetail with Kerala are, in contrast, quintessential Hindu south India, lush with tropical vegetation and soaring temple gopuram.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for India, created by local experts

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Dehli and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

15 days  / from 3430 USD

Indian Wildlife Safari

Meet Bengals, birds, monkeys, leopards and more on an amazing wildlife extravaganza visiting India's famous national parks. Experience the countryside by rail, soak up some culture at the Taj Mahal and Rantahnbore Fort and finish with some shopping and sightseeing in the bustling capital, Dehli.

10 days  / from 1900 USD

India: from the Ganges to the Golden Triangle

From Dehli's bustling dusty streets to 'the pink city' of Jaipur and Agra's Taj Mahal, this trip ensures you experience all of India's Golden Triangle highlights. You'll visit sacred Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges and Khajuraho's famous temples too.

7 days  / from 880 USD

Magical Kerala

The intense greens of the Kerala backwaters, overhung by innumerable coconut palms, encapsulate tropical India like nowehere else. Enjoy a lazy cruise on a converted rice barge; visit fragrant spice plantations, explore Cochi and spot local wildlife.

11 days  / from 1850 USD

Kerala – God’s Own Country

Southern India is a feast for the senses. The lush greenery of tea plantations, the colourful spice markets and plantations - this itinerary is nothing short of highlights. Take a houseboat trip on the Kerala backwaters before finishing your trip with some leisure beach days.

9 days  / from 1450 USD

North India Explored: From Delhi to Shimla

Experience the striking contrasts of Old and New Delhi; visit the Golden Temple at Amritsar, the holiest of Sikh sites. Head up into the cool green Himalayan Foothills, and to Dharamsala, home of the Dalai Lama, and then to the old British hill station of Shimla, famous for its 'Toy Railway'.

15 days  / from 6835 USD

Gems of India & Taj Mahal

Stay in the most beautiful hotels, have a knowledgeable private tour guide by your side all throughout on this unique trip to India. Visit highlights like the Taj Mahal but also unknown areas like the villages in Rajasthan for nature, wildlife and cultural encounters unique to India.

5 days  / from 503 USD

The Essential Golden Triangle

Explore India’s dusty capital Delhi, taking in the Qutab Minar, crowded bazaars and opulent temples before venturing forth to Agra to see the venerable Taj Mahal. Then decamp to the pink city, Jaipur, for an intoxicating introduction to Rajasthan.

8 days  / from 1550 USD

India's Monuments and Tigers

India’s Golden Triangle is a must-see on any visit to the country. Throw in a game drive around one of the excellent national parks and you’ve got the perfect balance between Indian culture and heritage and an exhilarating wildlife adventure.

12 days  / from 1590 USD

Unmissable India

A visit to India lives long in the memory. Experience the country’s exquisite forts and temples, fabulous food and dusty atmospheric cities as you journey through the Golden Triangle and onwards to the lush southern backwaters of lovely Kerala.

17 days  / from 3284 USD

Treasures of India - South and North

Begin in the coastal charm of Cochin. Travel to the lush tea plantations of Munnar and experience the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Explore the palaces of Udaipur, the vibrant streets of Jaipur, and the wildlife of Ranthambore. Marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal and conclude your adventure in Delhi.

8 days  / from 1775 USD

Golden Triangle Exploration

Discover India on an 8-day tour exploring Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, with highlights including the iconic Taj Mahal. Enjoy the convenience of private guides, transportation, and experience the cultural tapestry of India, featuring scenic train rides.

Karnataka’s principal attractions lie at opposite ends of the state, with a handful of less-visited places dotted along the coast between Goa and Kerala .

Road and rail routes dictate that most itineraries take in the state capital, Bengaluru (Bangalore), a go-ahead, modern city that epitomises the aspirations of the country’s new middle class, with glittering malls, fast-food outlets and nightlife unrivalled outside Mumbai .

The state’s second city, Mysuru (Mysore), appeals more for its Raj-era ambience, nineteenth-century palaces and vibrant produce and incense markets. It also lies within easy reach of several important historical monuments, notably the ruined Vijayanagar city at Hampi, whose lost temples and derelict palaces stand amid an arid, rocky landscape of surreal beauty.

Fed by the southwest monsoon and draped in dense deciduous forests, the Western Ghats, run in an unbroken line along the state’s palm-fringed coast, impeding the path of the rain clouds east.

As a result, the landscape of the interior – comprising the southern apex of the triangular Deccan trap, known as the Mysore Plateau, is considerably drier. Three of south India’s most sacred rivers, the Kaveri (also spelt Cauvery), Tungabhadra and Krishna, flow across this sun-baked terrain, draining east to the Bay of Bengal.

Planning a trip to India? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!

Bangalore, India © Shutterstock

Best things to do in Karnataka

#1 Explore Bengaluru (Bangalore)

This booming silicon city offers the best shopping, nightlife and dining this side of Mumbai, not to mention a few great parks, plus the odd palace and temple.

Don’t miss Cubbon Park, a welcome green space in the heart of the city, shaded by massive clumps of bamboo, and presided over by a statue of Queen Victoria.

Several prominent historic landmarks are located within its sprawling expanse, including the State Central Library, one of the oldest and largest in the country, housed in the impressive red Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, and the colonnaded, red-brick High Court of Karnataka (Attara Kacheri).

Inspired by the splendid gardens of the Mughals and the French botanical gardens at Puducherry in Tamil Nadu, the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens designed by Sultan Haider Ali set in 1760 laying are also worth visiting.

#2 Seek out Mysuru (Mysore) the state’s second city

The sandalwood city oozes old-world charm and has lots to see, including the opulent Mysore Palace. A centre of sandalwood-carving, silk and incense production, and dotted with palaces and gardens, Mysore, officially renamed Mysuru in 2014, is one of south India’s more appealing cities and its cultural capital. It remains an old-fashioned place, changed by neither an IT boom nor its well-established status as a top international yoga destination.

That said, the erstwhile capital of the Wadiyar rajas can be underwhelming at first blush: upon stumbling off a bus or train you are smacked by a cacophony of tooting, careening buses, bullock carts, bikes and tongas. Still, give it a few days and Mysuru will cast a spell on you.

Stroll past the evocative, if dilapidated, pre-Independence buildings lining market areas such as Ashoka Road and Sayaji Rao Road lend an air of faded grandeur to the vibrant city centre.

#3 Seek out two of Halebidu’s Hoysala Temples

Halebidu (formerly Halebid), 32 km northwest of Hassan, was the second capital of the powerful Hoysala dynasty, which held sway over south Karnataka from the eleventh until the early fourteenth centuries and its peak stretched from coast to coast. Once known as Dora Samudra (Gateway to the Sea), the capital city became Hale-bidu, or “Old City”, after successive raids by the Delhi sultanate between 1311 and 1326 reduced it to rubble.

Despite the sacking, several large Hoysala temples survive, two of which, the Hoysaleshvara and Kedareshvara, are superb, covered in exquisite carvings and are worth exploring.

#4 Walk under the gigantic gopura at Chennakeshava temple

Located northwest of Hassan, on the banks of the Yagachi River, Belur was the Hoysala capital during the eleventh and twelfth centuries, its importance marked by the gateway tower at Chennakeshava temple.

Still in active worship, the Chennakeshava temple is a fine and early example of the singular Hoysala style, built by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 to celebrate his conversion from Jainism, victory over Chola forces at Talakad and his independence from the Chalukyas.

Today, its grey-stone gopura, or gateway tower, soars above a small, bustling market town – a popular pilgrimage site from October to December, when busloads of Ayappan devotees stream through en route to Sabarimala. The Car Festival held around March or April takes place over twelve days and has a pastoral feel, attracting farmers from the surrounding countryside who conduct a bullock cart procession through the streets to the temple.

Inside the Chennakeshava Complex, the Andal Temple pillars entrance. Belur, Karnataka, India © Shutterstock

#5 Ditch Goa for Gokarna

This vibrant Hindu holy town is blessed with atmospheric temples and exquisite crescent beaches and is ideal for serious unwinding. Among India’s most scenically situated sacred sites, Gokarna lies between a broad white-sand beach and the verdant foothills of the Western Ghats.

Yet this compact little coastal town – a Shaivite centre for more than two millennia – remained largely “undiscovered” by Western tourists until the early 1990s, when it began to attract neo-hippies fleeing the commercialization of Goa, just over 60 km north.

Now firmly on the tourist map, the town retains a charming local character, as the Hindu pilgrims pouring through still far outnumber the foreigners who flock here in winter. A hotchpotch of wood-fronted houses and red terracotta roofs, Gokarna is clustered around a long L-shaped bazaar. Its broad main road – known as Car Street – runs west to the beach, which is a sacred site in its own right.

#6 Find serenity in ruins at Hampi

Among a surreal landscape of golden-brown boulders and leafy banana fields are the crumbling remains of the Vijayanagar kingdom. The “City of Victory,” Vijayanagar, better known as Hampi (the name of the main local village), spills from the south bank of the River Tungabhadra.

This once dazzling Hindu capital was devastated by a six-month Muslim siege in the sixteenth century. Only stone, brick and stucco structures survived the ensuing sack – monolithic deities, crumbling houses and abandoned temples dominated by towering gopuras – as well as the irrigation system that channelled water to the temples.

The serene riverside setting and air of magic that still lingers over the site, sacred for centuries before a city was founded here, make it one of India’s most extraordinary locations. Many find it difficult to leave and spend weeks chilling out in cafés, wandering to whitewashed hilltop temples and gazing at the spectacular sunsets.

#7 Size up the splendid dome at Vijayapura (Bijapur)

Known as the “Agra of the South” for its splendid Islamic architecture, most famously the vast dome of the Gol Gumbaz. The dry and dusty far northern region of Karnataka is as distinct culturally as it is in landscape. Predominantly Muslim, at least in the larger settlements, it boasts some wonderful Islamic architecture and shrines in the venerable city of Vijayapura (Bijapur), bustling Kalaburagi (Gulbarga) and rather forlorn Bidar.

#8 Escape the tourists, make a beeline for Bidar

This rarely visited Muslim outpost in the remote northeast of the state is famed for its bidri metalwork and magnificent mediaeval monuments. Lost in the far northeast of Karnataka, Bidar is a provincial backwater known for its fighter-pilot training base, but visitors will discover its gently decaying monuments, its robust fifteenth-century fort and the most important Sikh shrine in Karnataka, Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib.

The town, half of whose 210,000-strong population is Muslim, has a gritty charm, with narrow red-dirt streets ending at arched gates and open vistas across the plains. Littered with tile-fronted tombs, rambling fortifications and old mosques, it merits a visit if you’re travelling between Hyderabad (150 km east) and Vijayapura, although you should expect little in the way of Western comforts, and lots of curious approaches from locals.

Mysore, India © Shutterstock

From the bustling tech hub of Bengaluru to the tranquil hills of Coorg and the ancient ruins of Hampi, Karnataka provides an enchanting selection of places to stay that cater to every traveller's preferences.

Due to the great number of business visitors it receives, Bengaluru offers a wealth of upmarket lodgings, as well as serviced apartments. Decent budget accommodation is also available, mostly concentrated around the Central Bus Stand and railway station.

Mysuru (Mysore)

Staying near the city centre allows easy access to attractions like the palace, Chamundi Hills, and the vibrant Devaraja Market. Finding a room is only a problem during Dasara and the Christmas/New Year period, when the popular places are booked up weeks in advance and prices predictably soar. Checkout is generally at noon.

Kodagu (Coorg)

Kodagu has a huge range of stay options from rustic cottages to ritzy resorts, though its charm lies in the profusion of traditional homestays, many in plantation bungalows, which offer the legendary hospitality of the Kodavas.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its ancient ruins and historical significance. It's best to stay in the Hampi Bazaar area or nearby Hospet town, which has a range of accommodation options .

Located on the coastal belt of Karnataka, Mangalore offers beautiful beaches and a rich cultural blend. Staying in areas like Panambur, Kadri, or the city centre provides access to beaches, temples, and local cuisine.

Known for its pristine beaches and religious significance, Gokarna is a tranquil coastal town. Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Gokarna Main Beach are popular areas for accommodation .

This coastal town is famous for its ancient temples and delicious Udupi cuisine. Staying near the city centre or close to Malpe Beach is convenient for exploring the town and nearby attractions.

Browse the places to stay in Karnataka.

Gokarna, India © Shutterstock

Karnataka has numerous transportation options available, so whether you’re navigating the bustling city streets of Bengaluru or embarking on scenic drives through picturesque landscapes, the state’s well-connected network of roads, railways, and airways help you to get around.

Karnataka has an extensive rail network connecting major cities and towns. It's advisable to book train tickets in advance, especially for long-distance journeys, to secure your preferred class and seat. Hubballi is the state's major railway junction.

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates a vast network of buses connecting various cities, towns, and even remote areas within the state.

KSRTC buses are a reliable and affordable option for intercity travel and reaching popular destinations

If in Bengaluru, there is now a metro system. The east– west Purple Line links the main train and bus stations (via City Railway and Majestic stations) with points east including Cubbon Park, MG Road and Indiranagar.

The north–south Green Line travels south via Yeshwantpur before intersecting with the Purple Line at Majestic and continuing south via Chikpete, KR Market and Lalbagh. Payment is by single-use tokens or Varshik smart cards, which give a slight discount.

By auto-rickshaw

The easiest way of getting around big cities is by metered auto-rickshaw. Most meters do work and drivers are usually willing to use them, although you will occasionally be asked for a flat fare, especially during rush hour.

You can book chauffeur-driven cars and taxis through several state-wide agencies or use Ola or Uber.

Gol Gumbaz tomb in Bijapur (Vijayapura), Karnataka in India © Shutterstock

To truly experience Karnataka, you will need a minimum of 7 to 10 days. This will give you time to visit popular destinations in like Bangalore, where you can spend two days immersed in the city's bustling atmosphere and visit iconic landmarks such as Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace.

Then head to Mysore for two days. Marvel at the grandeur of Mysore Palace, take a trip to the serene Chamundi Hills, and explore After that, make your way to Coorg, a picturesque hill station renowned for its coffee plantations or venture into Nagarhole National Park for a brush with wildlife.

Then visit Hampi for its awe-inspiring ruins and temples. Conclude your trip with two days in Gokarna, a coastal paradise. Unwind on the pristine beaches, pay a visit to the revered Mahabaleshwar Temple, and enjoy water activities like swimming or beachside yoga.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Check our India itineraries .

Coastal Karnataka is one of the wettest regions in India, its climate is dominated by the seasonal monsoon, which sweeps in from the southwest in June, dumping an average of 4m of rain on the coast before it peters out in late September.

October to April is therefore the best time to visit. Bengaluru and Mysuru, to the south of the Deccan Plateau, have a temperate climate with mild weather most of the year. The northern tracts and the coast get really hot in summer (April–June), with monsoon bringing some respite between July and October.

Karnataka also has several large festivals including:

• Hampi Utsav (early Nov). Celebrated since Vijayanagar times and revived by the Government of Karnataka, this three-day festival is a cultural showcase of music, dance, costume dramas, puppet shows, fireworks, processions and kushti (wrestling) that once received royal patronage.
• Makar Sankranti (mid-Jan). The transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) is when the harvest festival (suggi habba) is celebrated. Temple festivities, cultural programmes and kite-flying, especially in northern Karnataka, mark the occasion.
• Bangalore Karaga (April). Bengaluru’s oldest festival is celebrated over eleven days around the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple in the old city. The festival honours Draupadi, considered a form of Shakti, and is named after the karaga or large floral pyramid borne by the appointed carrier during a night-time procession to the accompaniment of music and acrobatics.
• Mysore Dasara (Sept/Oct). The biggest of them all, Karnataka’s naada habba (state festival) culminates in a grand procession on its tenth and final day.
• Kadalekai Parishe (Dec/Jan). Bengaluru’s unique groundnut fair, held near the Bull Temple in Basavanagudi with rural produce on sale.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Vitthala temple, Hampi © Shutterstock

From international flights to domestic transportation options, here’s how to get to Karnataka.

The quickest and most convenient way to reach Karnataka from distant locations is by air. The state has several airports, including the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is the busiest airport in Karnataka.

Other helpful airports for travellers include Bellary, 60km from Hampi, and Mangaluru, which has international connections.

Karnataka has an extensive railway network, making train travel a popular and affordable option for arriving here. Hubballi is the state's major railway junction with trains from Northern India and Maharashtra .

Karnataka has an extensive network of national and state highways, many of which have been recently upgraded.

Find out the best ways to get to India .

Discover more places in India

• Jog Falls, Karnataka
• Mangalore, India
• Mysore (Mysuru), India
• Udupi, India

The Rough Guides to India and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

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written by Andy Turner

updated 5.06.2023

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Coastal Karnataka Tour in 7 Days | Complete Road Trip Guide!

Last updated on February 20th, 2024 at 01:12 pm

A road trip to Coastal Karnataka is an invigorating experience. A Coastal Karnataka tour from Bangalore by road makes you experience gorgeous beaches, rivers, backwaters, temples, and heritage spots. It is not as crowded by tourists as in neighboring Kerala – which is good in a way – and is a captivating milieu of culture and relaxation for an itinerant traveler.

We are not sure of the number of times we have traveled to these places and every time, we come back refreshed! Here is how you can explore the region on your own with this detailed road trip guide.

This is the 12th in the series of Weeklong Road Trips from Bangalore with a detailed itinerary ! We have covered hill stations, beaches, national parks, waterfalls, caves, canyons, temples, World Heritage sites, etc. in these road trips. You may take a look at this list by clicking this link.

12 Weeklong Road Trips from Bangalore with detailed Itinerary! 

Here is the detailed plan for your Coastal Karnataka Road trip from Bangalore! Making it easy for you with day wise itinerary!

Circuit – Bangalore – Mangalore – Udupi – Kundapur – Murudeshwar – Gokarna – Karwar – Bangalore

Total distance – 1183 KMs

Google map of the circuit –   https://goo.gl/maps/p3me5QRnKzzLCNmd7

Road condition – The road conditions for this coastal Karnataka tour by road are generally good. But we strongly advise you to join the excellent road trippers’ group on Facebook known as HV Kumar Forum where you can get the latest updates on road conditions and get expert advice from seasoned road trippers. HV Kumar is considered a doyen among Roadtrippers in India. Click on this link to join the group.

Please make sure you have recharged/topped up your FASTag account before going on the road trip.

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The Day Wise Itinerary

Day 1 – Bangalore – Mangalore – Bekal – Mangalore

Distance – 469 km

Google Map –  https://goo.gl/maps/RchBExAnHbFc3gSc9

Road Condition – The road condition is patchy between Hassan and Sakleshpur as road widening is in progress. Shiradi Ghat also has some bad patches but doable. Here is the latest update on this route.

Hassan to Sakleshpur – Although roads are decent, you need to navigate well as you will have to away from one side of the road to another.

On Shiradi ghat Donigal till Marenahalli – A lot of bad stretch, and dug up due to work in progress

After the ghats – Upinangady to BC Road a lot of bad stretches. Be assured to be caught is a gridlock at Kalladka, due to the flyover construction..

Alternatively, if you want to avoid Shiradi Ghat, then you can choose to take Hassan – Mudigere – Kottigehara – Charamadi Ghat – Mangalore route. Google Map –  https://goo.gl/maps/MBKJ2TbcJ6rDNbd59

• Depart Bangalore around 6.30 AM. Have breakfast on the way. Our favorite spot is Swathi Delicacy before Yediyur. Don’t miss their Masala Dosa and Filter coffee!
• After Sakleshpur, enjoy a lovely drive through the Malnad region till you reach Mangalore. Stop for sip famous KTea at Laxmi Nivas Hotel at Kalladaka before Mangalore!

KTea! Specialty of Kalladka!!

• Reach Mangalore by lunch.
• After lunch and rest, drive to Bekal to visit the lovely fort built by the sea by Tipu Sultan. Though in Kerala now, it retains the flavour of coastal Karnataka with many speaking Kannada and Tulu languages.
• Remember the famous song “Tuhire, Tuhire” in “Bombay” movie by Mani Ratnam . This song was shot here. For details on Bekal Fort check this – Bekal fort in Wiki 
• An hour’s drive from Mangalore will take you to Bekal. Spend an hour at the fort and then head to Bekal Beach. Enjoy the beach and lovely sunset and return to Mangalore.

Inside the Bekal fort. The views from here is awesome

View of Bekal beach from the fort

A sentry post by the sea!

• Night stay in Mangalore.

Day 2 – Mangalore – Udupi

Distance – 75 KMs

Google Map –   https://goo.gl/maps/k3gTDEQzw5EzpEQW6

Road Condition – Excellent. Watch out for speed breakers at some places on the highway, especially at junctions

• After an early breakfast, check out from your hotel and depart Mangalore to the famous temple of Durga Parameshwari at Kateel. Spend 45 minutes here and after Darshan head to Udupi.
• On the way, you can stop over at Pilkula Nisargadhama and enjoy the boat ride. More details on Pilkula here –  Pilkula Nisargadhama in Wiki

The lake in Nisargadhama

• Reach Udupi for a late lunch. After lunch, visit the famous Krishna temple at Udupi and explore the surroundings.

The entrance to Krishna Temple

Madhwa Sarovara – The holy tank

• In the evening drive to Kaup Beach which has a British-built lighthouse and a lovely beach. Enjoy the lovely sunset and return to Udupi. After Kaup or Kapu drive to another lovely beach at Padubidri which is one of the two blue flag beaches in Karnataka.

Lovely Kaup or Kapu beach with its lighthouse!

• Have dinner in Udupi’s famous Diana restaurant in the city or Masala Dosa and Goli Bajji in Udupi’s iconic Mitra Samaja restaurant near the temple.
• Night stay in Udupi.

Day 3 – Udupi – Malpe – Kollur – Kundapur

Distance – 119 KMs

Road Condition – Good

• Panchajanya Cruise – https://www.facebook.com/Panchajanya-Cruise-1175037829262083/
• Thirumala Cruise – https://thirumalacruise.com/
• Experience the sea walk at Malpe Beach and then Take a ferry to go to St Mary’s Island which is a geological marvel. Check more details here – http://malpeboating.com/
• Explore the island and return and drive to Kollur to visit the Mookambika temple.

The lovely beach on St Mary’s Island

Lovely stone formations on the island!

• Have lunch in Kollur. After visiting the temple, drive to Kundapur.

Kollur Mookambika temple –   https://www.kollurmookambika.org/

• Check into the hotel drive to the Kodi beach and climb up the Kodi Light House for a panoramic view of the Kundapur landscape. Enjoy the sunset on Kodi Beach.

Kodi beach, Kundapur

Kodi beach light house

• Have dinner at famous Shetty’s Lunch Home in Kundapur if you love Chicken and Fish . Taste the best coastal Karnataka food here! The Chicken Ghee Roast and Kaney Fish Fry is supposed to be the best!
• Night stay in Kundapur

Day 4 – Kundapur – Maravanthe – Bhatkal – Murudeshwar

Distance –  66 KMs

Google Map –   https://goo.gl/maps/Tpyx2gHfgbEa5JEs5

• After Breakfast check out from your hotel and drive to Murudeshwar.
• Marvel at the Maravanthe which has a river on one side and a beach on the other side! Spend a few minutes for photo ops and drive to Murudeshwar.

Lovely Maravanthe beach in Drone shot!

• If you are non-vegetarian and love Biryani, then stop over for tasty Bhatkal Biryani Lunch in either Kwality Hotel or Pai’s Fish land or City light which all are on the highway and reach Murudeshwar. You may pack it and eat in Murudeshwar.
• After checking into the hotel and lunch, explore the temple with the second tallest Shiva statue in the world and its surroundings and head to the beach for a lovely time and relax watching a beautiful sunset. Don’t miss going to the 20th floor – there is an elevator – of Raja Gopura for a mesmerising view of the Shiva statue surrounded by sea!
• Visit the cave museum under the Shiva Statue by paying Rs 10 as an entry fee. You will be able to hear the mythological story of Ravana and Atma linga and how Murudeshwar came into existence. Take the lift to the second tallest 237 ft temple tower to enjoy the lovely aerial view of Lord Shiva, the Arabian Sea and the city. Charges – Rs. 20 per adult and Rs. 10 for children. Timing: Morning: 7 AM – 12:45 PM, Afternoon: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Go early to avoid the rush. Visit the main temple for linga Darshan. Temple timing: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 8:15 PM.   Ample Car parking is available and is Rs. 30.

A nice shot of second tallest Lord Shiva statue in the world and second tallest Gopura (temple tower) in the world. 

Lovely view of Lord Shiva statue from the top of Raja Gopura!

• Nigh stay at Murudeshwar.

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Day 5 – Murudeshwar – Idagunji – Apsarakonda – Vannalli beach – Mangodlu beach – Mirjan fort – Gokarna

Distance – 98 KMs

Google Map –   https://goo.gl/maps/X4KXKaiagLSHLZjKA

• Depart from Murudeshwar after breakfast. Enjoy the lovely coastal drive interspersed with rivers. This is the best part of driving in Coastal Karnataka!
• Reach Idagunji Ganapati temple which is one of famous Ganapati temples in India. Spend 45 minutes here and after darshan, head to Apsarakonda
• Stop over at Apsarakonda to see the lovely waterfalls. Spend 30 minutes here and drive to pristine Vannali and Mangodlu beaches near Kumta. Have lunch in Kumta.

Mangodlu beach

Vannalli beach

• After Kumta return to NH 66 and drive straight to Gokarna. Stop over for few minutes to explore lovely Mirjan fort  which is on the highway.

Inside Mirjan fort

• Reach Gokarna by late afternoon. After checking in, head straight to OM beach. Relax on the beach and enjoy the lovely sunset.

Om beach! The jewel of Gokarna!

• Explore the Gokarna town in the evening.

Kotitheertha – The Holy Pond 

• Night stay in Gokarna.

Day 6 – Gokarna to Karwar

Distance – 61 KMs

Google map –  https://goo.gl/maps/2q4AtD8MJBrEubPJ6

• Get up early and visit the famous Mahabaleshwara temple in Gokarna which has Atma Linga. See details here – http://www.srigokarna.org/
• After darshan, have breakfast and head straight to Karwar.
• After checking into a hotel, go for a cruise on the backwaters of Kali River. You can go to Kali River Garden and can go for boating in the Kali River from there. You can also make a trip to Kurumgad island to visit the Narasimha temple. Check with hotel on ferry details.

Kali river garden is a nice place to visit for boating. In the evening it has colourful musical fountains as well

• Return for lunch and enjoy excellent sea food lunch at Amrut restaurant . It also has good vegetarian menu.
• After lunch visit the Warship Museum and rock garden which is on the highway in city.

The warship museum is one of its kind!

Don’t miss the Rock Garden!

• After visiting the museum, we strongly recommend driving towards Goa and see the confluence of Kali River with Arabian Sea from the bridge.
• Relax at Karwar beach and enjoy the spectacular sunset – the sunset between two islands here – on the beach.

Karwar has one of the finest beaches and the sunset here is gorgeous!

• Night stay in Karwar

Day 7 – Karwar – Magod Falls – Hubli – Davanagere – Bangalore

Distance – 555 KMs

Road Condition – Generally Good but the road is broken and few pot holes are seen on Arebail ghat section before Yellapur

Google map –  https://goo.gl/maps/1DLDFQMWUq7KWyQf7

• Leave around 7 AM. Have breakfast on the way.
• You may take a detour before Yellapur to see magnificent Magod waterfalls.
• Savour Davanagere Benne Dosey (Butter Dosa) at Guru Kottureshwara Benne Dosey hotel opposite BDT Dental College. For more on Benne Dosey (Butter Dosa) experience please check this. – http://traveltwosome.com/food-safari-davanagere-benne-dose/
• Reach home by evening.

Travel Tips

• This is an easy trip covering lovely locations of Coastal Karnataka by road. The distances are not much.
• If you are looking for an itinerary only to Udupi and its surroundings, please click this link – https://traveltwosome.com/bangalore-to-udupi-trip-4-days-itinerary/
• Leave after early Breakfast and visit Lovely Varanga Jain temple in the middle of a lake, newly built Parshurama theme park and Karkala famous for Gommateshwara. Have lunch at Karkala.
• Return to Udupi and then drive to Heroor Hanging bridge and beuatiful Kodi Bengere beach which is a small strip of land with sea on one side and river on the other. See this Google map Link –  https://goo.gl/maps/VjbiHwfMNS8MpzvJ8
• We strongly recommend you download HVK RoutO – a road trip app developed by HV Kumar for android phones. You can then request a map for whole circuit for a small fee. This is much better than Google map. For more details please check this – https://www.facebook.com/HVKRoutO/

The best time do this Coastal Karnataka Road trip is in the winter months of October to January. Even in winter, the day temperatures will be high.

• Wear good sunscreen lotion while on outdoors. Also wear a good hat.
• Drink lot of water.
• Carry a good binocular. It will be useful.
• Don’t be in a hurry. You will get many places to stop and click pictures.
• The cruise timings of St Mary’s Island may keep changing. Confirm at your hotel about it. Cruises will not be operational in Monsoon months of June to September.
• Expect crowds at Udupi, Kollur and Gokarna temples, especially on weekends. Men have to wear Dhoti for entering Kollur temple while in other temples there is no such restrictions.
• Mulki – Mantra Surfing Club –   https://surfingindia.net/ashram-surf-retreat/
• Kodi Bengere – The Saka Surf club –  https://www.theshakasurfclub.com/
• If you want to do beach trek, add an additional day to the itinerary. Check this post on doing Beach treks in this blog here –  http://traveltwosome.com/beach-trek/
• You may also do a river water cruise on Swarna River near Udupi. Panchajanya cruises have many options. Please click this more details –  http://panchajanyacruise.com/  .    Add additional day in Udupi if you want to experience this.
• Scuba diving in Netrani – We did it! –  http://traveltwosome.com/scuba-diving-in-netrani-we-did-it/
• This road trip guide for Coastal Karnataka can also be used for Mangalore to Karwar road trip or Mangalore to Gokarna road trip or Mangalore to Goa road trip. This road trip covers itinerary for trip to Mangalore, Gokarna from Bangalore as well.
• This road trip can be extended to cover Dandeli and Sirsi and one can explore remaining parts of Uttara Kannada by following the itinerary in this post from Day 6 onwards –  http://traveltwosome.com/bangalore-to-dandeli-gokarna-sirsi-road-trip-guide/
• We have deliberately not mentioned about stay options as there are many available suiting all budgets. You may check on –  Trip Advisor
• For people who are planning a Coastal Karnataka road trip from Mumbai and Pune, it can be done reverse up starting from Karwar. After Mangalore, they can return to Mumbai/Pune via Thirthahalli – Shivamogga – Chitradurga. Stay overnight at Belgaum. Add two more days for the commute from Mumbai/Pune to Karwar and Belgaum to Pune/Mumbai
• Those who want to do this Coastal Karnataka road trip from Chennai have to add two more days and stay in Bangalore on Day 1 and Day 9.
• Those who want to do this Coastal Karnataka road trip from Hyderabad have to add two more days and stay in Bangalore on Day 1 and Day 9.
• Those who are not from Bangalore can easily fly to Mangalore and hire self-drive cars to do this trip.
• Please be careful while entering and playing in the sea. Follow local safety guidelines. Do not venture deep into the water.
• Don’t forget to carry a car charger. Check this festive offer from Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) How to plan a trip to Coastal Karnataka?

The coastal Karnataka trip is best planned in a private vehicle. You can reach Mangalore by air, train or bus and then plan the trip as per the detailed itinerary given above.

2) What is the best time to visit Coastal Karnataka?

The best time to visit Coastal Karnataka is the winter months of November to January. However, one can plan the trip from September after the rains till the end of March. Summer will be hot and humid and the rainy season is from June till the end of August.

3) What is Coastal Karnataka famous for?

Coastal Karnataka is famous for gorgeous beaches at Kapu, Baindur, Kundapur, Kumta, Gokarna, Karwar, Honnavar etc.,  ancient temples at Udupi, Kollur and Gokarna, coastal cuisine, backwater cruises and many more!

4) How can I plan a Coastal Karnataka road trip from Mumbai or Pune?

You can plan a Coastal Karnataka road trip from Mumbai or Pune either by reaching Mangalore by air or train and then hire a taxi to complete the itinerary given above. If you are planning to drive your own car, we suggest that you do the itinerary in reverse order from Karwar onwards exit from Mangalore and return to Mumbai/Pune via a lovely route through hills as per this link – https://goo.gl/maps/hHGcxSm5PVFkWMaH6

More Road Trips for you from Bangalore! 

If you are interested in weeklong road trips from Bangalore with detailed itineraries, you should look at these posts on this blog

Weeklong road trips from bangalore – 12 exciting options with detailed itineraries  –  http://traveltwosome.com/exciting-road-trips-from-bangalore/ , weekend trips from bangalore (covers saturday & sunday) – 8 exciting options with detailed itineraries –   http://traveltwosome.com/weekend-getaways-from-bangalore/, 26 one day trips from bangalore with detailed itinerary –  http://traveltwosome.com/one-day-trip-from-bangalore/.

We thank you for stopping by Travel Twosome and checking out this post on Coastal Karnataka road trip. We hope you liked it. We would like to hear your comments and feedback after doing this trip.

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Hampi - Badami Tour Packages

Mysore - ooty tour packages, hill station tour packages, heritage tour packages, karnataka beach holidays, nature and hill station tours, wildlife tour packages, temple tour packages, adventure tour packages, karnataka tour packages - book your holiday package.

Karnataka is blessed with beautiful natural scenery, breath-taking hill stations, spectacular beaches, thrilling Western Ghats, wonderful national parks, amazing waterfalls, unique monuments, and unmatched temples. We offer packages for every kind of Karnataka tour you plan, whether with your family, honeymoon, group tour or adventurous with your friends. It will be an everlasting and mind-blowing Karnataka tour experience.

Check out our Popular Tour Packages for South India

Bangalore - mysore - ooty.

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Mysore (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Mysore - Coorg

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Mysore (1 Night) - Coorg (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Ooty - Kodaikanal

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Kodaikanal (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Coorg - Wayanad

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Coorg (2 Nights) - Wayanad (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Ooty - Coorg

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Coorg (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Coorg - Ooty - Kodaikanal

Package Duration : 06 Nights / 07 Days Coorg (2 Nights) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Kodaikanal (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Ooty - Wayanad

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Wayanad (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Ooty - Wayanad - Coorg

Package Duration : 06 Nights / 07 Days Ooty (2 Nights) - Wayanad (2 Nights) - Coorg (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

B'lore - Mysore - Wayanad

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Mysore (1 Night) - Wayanad (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Ooty - Kodaikanal Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Ooty (2 Nights) - Kodaikanal (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Ooty - Coorg Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Ooty (2 Nights) - Coorg (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bandipur - Ooty Package

Package Duration : 03 Nights / 04 Days Bandipur (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Ooty Package

Package Duration : 03 Nights / 04 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Coorg Package

Package Duration : 03 Nights / 04 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Coorg (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Chikmagalur

Package Duration : 03 Nights / 04 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Chikmagalur (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Wayanad Package

Package Duration : 03 Nights / 04 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Wayanad (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Coorg - Chikmagalur

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Coorg (2 Nights) - Chikmagalur (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Coorg - Wayanad Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Coorg (2 Nights) - Wayanad (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Coorg - Ooty - Kodaikanal Tour

Package Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Coorg (2 Nights) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Kodaikanal (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Coorg - Wayanad - Ooty Tour Package

Package Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Coorg (2 Nights) - Wayanad (2 Nights) - Ooty (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Mysore - Ooty - Kodaikanal

Package Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Kodaikanal (2 Nights) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Mysore (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Mysore - Ooty - Coorg

Package Duration : 06 Nights / 07 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Coorg (2 Nights) - Mysore (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Mysore - Coorg - Wayanad

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Coorg (1 Nights) - Wayanad (2 Nights) - Mysore (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Mysore - Bandipur - Ooty Package

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Mysore (1 Night) - Bandipur (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Ooty Tour Package

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Ooty (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Kodaikanal Tour Package

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Kodaikanal (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Ooty - Wayanad Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Ooty (2 Nights) - Wayanad (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bandipur - Ooty - Kodaikanal Tour Package

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Bandipur (1 Night) - Ooty (2 Nights) - Kodaikanal (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Madurai - Rameswaram - Kanyakumari Tour Package

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Madurai (2 Night) - Rameswaram (1 Nights) - Kanyakumari (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Kodaikanal - Madurai - Rameshwaram - Kanyakumari

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Kodaikanal (1N) - Madurai (1N) - Rameshwaram (1N) - Kanyakumari (2N) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Ooty - Kodaikanal - Madurai - Rameshwaram

Package Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days Mysore (1N) - Ooty (2N) - Kodaikanal (2N) - Madurai (1N) - Rameswaram (1N) Click here to view Tour Package details

South Indian Holidays

Package Duration : 09 Nights / 10 Days Mysore (1N) - Ooty (2N) - Kodaikanal (2N) - Madurai (1N) - Rameswaram (1N) - Kanyakumari (2N) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mesmerising Tour of South

Package Duration : 11 Nights / 12 Days Bangalore (1N) - Mysore (1N) - Ooty (2N) - Kodaikanal (2N) - Madurai (1N) - Rameswaram (1N) - Kanyakumari (2N) - Kovalam (1N) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Coorg - Nagarhole - Mysore Tour

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Bangalore (1N) - Coorg (3N) - Mysore (1N) Click here to view Tour Package details

B'lore - Shravanabelagola - Mysore - Ooty Tour

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Bangalore (1N) - Mysore (2N) - Ooty (2N) Click here to view Tour Package details

Shravanabelagola - Coorg - Ooty - Mysore Tour Package

Package Duration : 06 Nights / 07 Days Coorg (3N) - Ooty (2N) - Mysore (1N) Click here to view Tour Package details

Coorg Tour Package

Package Duration : 03 Nights / 04 Days Coorg (3 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Coorg Honeymoon Package

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Coorg (3 Nights) - Mysore (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Honeymoon in Coorg

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Coorg (3 Nights) - Mysore (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Chikmagalur Tour Package

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Chikmagalur (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Yercaud Tour Package

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Yervaud (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Tirupati Tour Package

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Tirupati (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Chikmagalur Hills and Wildlife Tour Package

Package Duration : 03 Nights / 04 Days Chikmagalur (3 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Hassan Tour Package

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Hassan (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Hassan - Hampi Tour Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Mysore (1 Nt) - Hassan (1 Nt) - Hospet (2 Nts) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Shravanabelagola Chikmagalur Tour

Karnataka jain temple package.

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Moodbidri (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Hampi - Kishkinda Tour Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Hospet (3 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore - Hampi - Badami - Bijapur Tour Package

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Hospet (2 Nights) - Badami (1 Night) - Bijapur (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Hassan - Hampi - Badami Tour Package

Package Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Hassan (1 Night) - Hospet (2 Nights) - Badami (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Mysore - Shravanabelagola - Chikmagalur - Hampi

Package Duration : 06 Nights / 07 Days Mysore (1 Night) - Hassan (1 Night) - Chikmagalur (2 Nights) - Hospet (2 Nights) Click here to view Tour Package details

Karnataka Temple Package

Package Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days Kukke (1N) - Mangalore (1N) - Udupi (1N) - Gokarna (1N) - Sagar (1N) - Kollur (1N) - Horanadu (1N) Click here to view Tour Package details

Karnataka Wildlife Tour Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Mysore (1 Night) - Nagahole (1 Night) - Bandipur (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Karnataka Beach Holiday Package

Package Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days Mangalore (1 Night) - Udupi (1 Night) - Murudeshwar (1 Night) - Karwar (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Bangalore Mysore Tour Package

Package Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days Bangalore (1 Night) - Mysore (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Dharmasthala - Kukke Subrahmanya Tour

Package Duration : 01 Night / 02 Days Kukke Subrahmanya (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

Chikmagalur Weekend Tour Package

Package Duration : 01 Night / 02 Days Chikmagalur (1 Night) Click here to view Tour Package details

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• Karnataka 3nights 4days Tour

Karnataka Tour Package For 3 Nights 4 days Rated 4.1 /5 (based on 745 reviews) Karnataka Tour Package For 3 Nights 4 days

Karnataka Tour Package For 3 Nights 4 days 4 Days & 3 Nights

Dasara festival celebrations

Explore wildlife in Dubare Reserve Forest

Fountains view at night

Walk through the Iron Bridge

Surreal natural beauty to explore

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• Mysore (2D)

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Known as the state of Mysore originally, Karnataka is a Southwestern state in India. The state is famous for its imperial structures, historical edifices, glittering beaches, diverse ethnicities, and linguistic groups and flavoursome cuisines. This Karnataka tour package for 4 days , comes packed with everything be it, leisure time, jam-packed sightseeing, local titbits, and fancy metropolitan vibes. While away these 4 days by treating yourself with the best of experiences and artistic splendours of South India, that can be the best witness with a hassle-free commutation and a well-planned sightseeing. Stroll through the local areas at your place, shop at the town markets, or travel like a local, with this 4-day trip, spend the time as per your choice while also enjoying the benefits of a pre-planned sightseeing and pre-booked facilities.

Beginning with your arrival, this 4 days Karnataka tour package takes you to marvel at the scenic backdrop of the place as you drive from Bangalore to your hotel in Coorg. A fresh ambience marked with valleys and green hills, misty waterfalls, and distinct biodiversity, Coorg offers some of the most surreal vantage points which can make every tourist fall in love with the place. Post your arrival in Coorg, you will be taken to Dubare Reserve Forest where you can sight the majestic creatures of the wild living in a protected environment. The next day of this Karnataka trip for 4 days , takes you sites such as Talakaveri, Bhagamandala, Talacauvery, Abbi Falls, Raja’s Seat, and Omkareshwara where you can enjoy a photo session amidst the picturesque layout. Next, coming up on this trip is Mysore wherein you can enjoy marvelling at gems like Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Chamundeshwari and the Art Gallery. Bangalore, comes as the last stop of this trip to Karnataka for 4 days, where you can explore the local places and town market before saying goodbye to Karnataka.

• Explore the natural attractions of Coorg
• Witness the heritage of Mysore
• Enjoy the local life of Bangalore
• Experience the bliss of nature and valleys

Coorg: Beginning of a splendid trip

• Dubare Reserve Forest

Other Benefits (On Arrival)

Your trip to Karnataka for 4 days begins in Coorg

Reach Bangalore Airport/Railway Station and get greeted by our delegates who will arrange for you a comfortable transfer to your hotel of stay in Coorg. Enjoy a beautiful journey from Bangalore to Coorg marked with natural splendors and greenery. Arrive at hotel and register yourself at the reception, post which you can spend some time relaxing in your room. Later proceed for Dubare Reserve Forest and witness how these magnificent creatures are taken care of in a secured environment. As this day comes to an end, get back to your hotel and retire for the night.

Coorg: A full-fledged exploration

Enjoy the 2nd day of your 4 days Karnataka tour package with a jam-packed itinerary

Wake up to a piquant morning meal and gear up for this exuberant day as you stroll through the splendid attractions of Coorg. Make a visit Talakaveri, Bhagamandala, Talacauvery, Abbi Falls, Raja’s Seat, and Omkareshwara. Later, as you have the time to yourself, you may visit the Town Market or try out any other of your choice. Once done, return to your hotel for a cozy overnight adjourn.

Mysore: A day full of artistic splendours

• Chamundi Hills
• Mysore Palace

Witness the ancient and artistic charms of Mysore on this day of your Karnataka tour package for 4 days

Savour a hearty morning meal and checkout from hotel as today you will be departing for Mysore. Pay a visit to the city’s most magnificent heritage site, Mysore Palace, followed by visits to Chamundi Hills, Chamundeshwari and the Art Gallery. In the evening, visit the Vrindavan Gardens, and enjoy a beautiful musical and illumination show. Later, as the night approaches, transfer to your hotel and retire for the night.

Bangalore: Goodbye Karnataka

Your 4 days trip in Karnataka ends with an energetic day in Bangalore

Relish one last meal of this trip and checkout from hotel as today will be taken to Bangalore. Upon reaching the place, spend some time exploring the local attractions and Town Market. Then, depart for airport/railway station as per departure timings and board flight/train home with splendid memories of the tour.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Hotel mb international

#3147; Bangalore-Nilgiri Road, Near Five-Light Circle, Convent Road,, 570001 Mysore, India

• Babysitting or childcare
• Elevator/lift
• Fitness facilities
• Iron/ironing board
• Laundry facilities
• Pets not allowed

Deva maani coorg nature holidays

Makkandur Village & Post, Cinchona Road, Madikeri Taluk, Karnataka - 571201

• Daily Breakfast
• Room on Double Sharing
• Sightseeing at all the mentioned places
• Pickup and drop From Nearest Airport/Railway station
• Fuel, Toll, Parking, Driver Allowance
• All applicable taxes and service charges
• Transportation by individual Cab
• Flight Fare/Train fare
• Personal Expenses such as Laundry, telephone calls, tips & gratuity, mineral water, soft & hard drinks
• Extra Mattress
• River Rafting
• Wildlife Safari
• rock climbing
• paragliding
• joy ride (Toy Train)
• Additional sightseeing or Extra usage of vehicle, other than mentioned in the itinerary
• Extra Meals (Additional food charge ) or Drinks & meal supplement for children like Milk and cornflakes
• Non Veg Food
• Mineral Water / Cold Drink
• Telephone Charges
• Travel Insurance"

Your Preferences

Where do you want to go?

FAQs for Karnataka

What are some of the best dishes of karnataka.

Karnataka boasts several lip-smacking dishes that are a must try when touring the place. Some of the best dishes in karnataka include  Korri Gassi, Neer Dosa, Kundapura Koli Saaru, Mysore Masala Dosa, Allagadda ,Mysore Pak,Kane Rava Fry,Coorg Pandi Curry.

Can one stay at their preferred hotel as per this Karnataka tour package?

Yes, one can include hotels of their choice with this Karnataka tour package. Remember to convey the same to the respective tour agent.

What are some of the must buy things from Karnataka?

Some of the must-try things from Karnataka include incense sticks, essential oils, perfumes, wood carvings, Mysore silks, and sculptures.

Is Karnataka a safe place to visit?

Karnataka is one of the safest tourist destinations in South India, however, basic precautions like taking care of personal belongings and not venturing into isolated areas must be adhered to.

What kind of clothing should one take during this Karnataka trip?

One must carry some warm clothing as well as some light clothing as when touring Coorg, tourists might need warm clothes.

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3 charred bodies found in car in Karnataka, murder has a 'treasure hunt' link

Police found three charred bodies in a car in karnataka's tumakuru district and said the victims were duped on the pretext of selling 'treasure'..

Listen to Story

• Three people found burnt in a car in Karnataka's Tumakuru district
• Victims lured with promise of selling treasure, were murdered and looted for money, say cops
• At least six people suspected to be involved in the crime

Three people who were found burnt in a car in Tumakuru district hailed from Belthangadi Taluk of Mangaluru and they might have been duped on the pretext of 'treasure', police said on Saturday.

Tumakuru Superintendent of Police Ashok KV said the investigation team had got vital clues and soon it will bust the gang behind it.

The bodies were found in a burnt car on a lake bed in Kuchangi village on the outskirts of the district headquarters town of Tumakuru on Friday.

"The victims were from Belthangady Taluk in Mangaluru district in Karnataka. We have got some leads in this case and soon we will crack it," the SP told PTI.

The culprits seem to have duped the trio on the pretext of selling 'treasure', he added.

The forensic report suggests that they might have been killed elsewhere and their bodies were brought to Tumakuru and burnt.

Other police sources said the accused lured the trio so that they wanted to dispose of the gold ornaments found during a treasure hunt at a throwaway price.

The victims relied on them and reached the place with money. Later, the culprits murdered them, looted their money and burnt their bodies along with the vehicle, they added.

According to the sources, at least six people were involved in the crime. Published By: Prateek Chakraborty Published On: Mar 24, 2024 ALSO READ | Karnataka student thrashed for speaking to girl from another community ALSO READ | Bengaluru facing 500 million litres water shortage: Karnataka Chief Minister

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Adams cancels southern border trip, cites ‘safety concerns’ in mexico.

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Mayor Eric Adams abruptly cancelled a planned trip to the southern border this weekend, citing “safety concerns” in a Mexican city he intended to visit.

“As Lent draws to a close, our team was excited to stand with faith and humanitarian leaders who have dedicated their lives to serving the most needy among us, and we were eager to discuss our work in New York City and explore new ways to collaborate with leaders in cities across the country,” mayoral spokeswoman Amaris Cockfield said in a statement Saturday.

“But due to safety concerns at one of the cities we were going to visit in Mexico flagged by the U.S. Department of State, we have decided to pause this visit at this time,” Cockfield said.

The Mayor’s Office did not immediately provide information about which city had safety concerns.

Adams was invited to head south to Mexico by Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of the Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley in San Juan.

He announced the trip to the Texas-Mexico border shortly after dozens of migrants rushed a border wall in El Paso, Texas, on Thursday.

The jaunt south would have been his  second such  trip to the Lone Star State since the start of the migrant crisis two years ago.

It also would have marked City Hall’s latest attempt to draw national attention to the financial burden the migrant influx has put on the Big Apple and pressure the Biden administration to step up.

Adams last cancelled a trip in November when he called off meetings with White House officials in Washington DC about the migrant crisis, shortly after learning the FBI raided the Brooklyn home of his chief fundraiser as part of an ongoing probe into his 2021 mayoral campaign.

Nearly 185,000 migrants have arrived in Big Apple since spring 2022, and the city is caring for about 65,000.

The city has already spent more than $4 billion dealing with its migrant crisis, and  Adams projects the price tag with soar to $12 billion by the end of fiscal year 2025.

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Dear Annie: Mom needs to grin and bear birthday trip with daughter’s bad boyfriend

• Published: Mar. 23, 2024, 3:08 a.m.

Annie Lane writes the Dear Annie advice column. Creators.com

Dear Annie: My daughter broke up with her boyfriend several months ago. She just recently hooked back up with him. Needless to say, I don’t like him. He is spoiled and rude.

The family was planning a trip for her birthday and she asked if a female friend could come. I told her that would be OK. Now she is telling me that her girlfriend can’t come and that her ex-boyfriend can take her friend’s plane ticket. I told her if he goes, I’ll stay home because I do not want to be around him. She knew this before inviting him to go on the trip. I openly expressed this to her.

Now, my daughter is telling me that she originally invited him to go on this trip if her friend decided not to go. She says I’m being mean and causing her to choose between him and me! I tried to explain to her that I don’t want her to choose and that she already knew how I felt about the whole situation. She still insists I am driving a wedge between us.

I’m not sure what to do -- either stick to my original decision, as I truly don’t like him, or try to put up with him for the five days we will be on our trip so I can try to enjoy what little time I’ll get with her since her ex will be there and he does not like to be around me or my daughter’s brother. What should I do? I love her, but I don’t like him. -- Unhappy Mom

Dear Unhappy Mom: Difficult as it might be to feign excitement with this man tagging along, the only person who loses out by not going on this trip is you. As much as you don’t like him or the situation, you’ll likely feel worse if you don’t go and miss out on celebrating your daughter’s birthday.

Do your best to be cordial and enjoy the time with her and the rest of your family. If she decides she wants to be with this man again long term, you will have to figure out a way to accept their relationship as best you can for as long as they are together. If you don’t, I fear you will only continue to lose more and more of your daughter.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected] .

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Top U.S. Diplomat Starts Mideast Trip in Saudi Arabia

Efforts to secure a cease-fire in Gaza are the backdrop, but the Biden administration also hopes to persuade Saudi Arabia to establish normal relations with Israel.

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By Michael Crowley ,  Cassandra Vinograd and John Yoon

• March 20, 2024

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, the first stop of a Mideast trip amid efforts to broker a deal between Israel and Hamas for a pause in Israel’s offensive in Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages and a flow of more humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory.

The visit to the city of Jeddah came as the Biden administration was hoping it could convince Saudi Arabia to establish diplomatic relations with Israel, a long-term objective that the United States considers important to stabilizing the broader Middle East.

The State Department said that Mr. Blinken met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister. Mr. Blinken is scheduled to be in Egypt on Thursday to meet with the country’s “leadership” there, the department said. It did not name specific officials.

The department said separately that Mr. Blinken would be traveling to Israel, as well, for talks about efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza and to “dramatically increase” humanitarian aid deliveries to the enclave. It is Mr. Blinken’s sixth trip to the region since the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attack on Israel set off the war in Gaza.

There was no immediate confirmation from the Israeli government. Nor were there details on whom Mr. Blinken would meet with.

Mr. Blinken told reporters in Manila on Tuesday that his discussions in the Middle East would include postwar plans for Gaza and the wider region.

He also said he would address “the right architecture for lasting regional peace,” an apparent reference to diplomacy among the United States, Israel and Saudi Arabia to broker a joint agreement.

Such a pact would likely require Israel to make concessions to the Palestinians in return for its first-ever formal diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia. In turn, the Saudis want the United States and Israel to support the creation of a civil nuclear program on Saudi soil , as well as greater military support from Washington.

After a period of deeply strained relations , Saudi Arabia’s crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, and President Biden found common ground earlier this year over exploring a potential deal in which Saudi Arabia would recognize Israel and establish diplomatic ties.

Many Arab governments, including Saudi Arabia, have long refused to establish a diplomatic link with Israel before the creation of a Palestinian state. Over the past decade, though, that calculus has shifted as the region’s authoritarian leaders have weighed negative public opinion toward a relationship with Israel against the economic and security benefits it could offer — and what they might obtain from the United States in return.

Framing the prospect of building ties with Israel as a way to obtain greater rights for the Palestinians could allow Prince Mohammed to limit popular backlash in his own country, where hostility toward Israel and support for the Palestinians is widespread.

Mr. Blinken’s trip comes as negotiators from Israel have joined officials from Egypt and Qatar to hold meetings in the Qatari capital, Doha, aimed at achieving a temporary cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages held by Palestinian militants.

The visit to Israel by Mr. Blinken will come as American and Israeli leaders are increasingly at odds over Israel’s approach to the war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has brushed aside President Biden’s opposition to a planned ground invasion of Rafah, in southern Gaza, saying on Tuesday that his government would press ahead despite pleas for restraint from the United States and other allies.

In a phone call with Mr. Netanyahu this week, Mr. Biden argued that a ground invasion could be disastrous for those sheltering in Rafah, and that Israel had other ways of achieving its objective of defeating Hamas.

The White House is expected to host an Israeli delegation early next week to discuss Israel’s plans for the invasion, and the issue will also be on Mr. Blinken’s agenda when he is in Israel.

The State Department said that on his visit Mr. Blinken would “discuss the need to ensure the defeat of Hamas, including in Rafah, in a way that protects the civilian population, does not hinder the delivery of humanitarian assistance, and advances Israel’s overall security.”

Michael Crowley covers the State Department and U.S. foreign policy for The Times. He has reported from nearly three dozen countries and often travels with the secretary of state. More about Michael Crowley

John Yoon is a Times reporter based in Seoul who covers breaking and trending news. More about John Yoon

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

​Russia and China vetoed  a U.S. resolution at the U.N.Security Council that called for “an immediate and sustained cease-fire”  as part of a deal in Gaza. The United States had vetoed three previous resolutions  demanding a stop to fighting.

​​Since the start of the war, President Biden has tried to influence Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel behind the scenes. As tension rises over what is next in the conflict, some say it is time for a different approach .

The Israeli military said that it had killed several people it described as terrorists  during a raid at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, one of Israel’s longest and deadliest such operations since the start of the war.

A Power Vacuum: Since the start of the war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has done little to address the power vacuum that would appear after Israeli forces leave Gaza. The risks of inaction are already apparent in Gaza City .

Chuck Schumer’s Speech:  Speaking to the U.S. Senate, the majority leader and highest-ranking Jewish official in the United States branded Netanyahu a major impediment to peace. In an interview, he explained why he felt obligated  to call for new leadership in Israel.

A Tough Balancing Act: Israel has been noticeably out of step with Western nations when it comes to relations with Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. That approach reflects unique security needs that have gained new relevance  since the start of the war in Gaza.

A Struggle for Life’s Basics: Most of Gaza’s population fled to the southern territory of Rafah , hoping to escape the war. As they hunt for food and shelter, a potential Israeli invasion has added to their fears.