Travelers from around the globe visit popular tourist places in Karnataka such as Hampi, Udupi, Badami, Mysore, Belur etc. for its fantastic selection of ancient architecture such as the Hoysala temples and forts. Apart from the historical ruins and architecture, Karnataka also has some of the most intriguing wildlife sanctuaries such as the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and National Park, the Nagarhole National Park, Anshi National Park, The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and many more. These sanctuaries offer some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities and safaris.
Karnataka is also famous for its ancient palaces and forts. It has over 61 forts scattered across the state and some of the popular ones are the Badami Fort, Chitradurga Fort, Bangalore Fort, Bellary Fort and lots more. Karnataka is also home to some of the most unique landscapes in the world such as the Yana rock formations, granite boulders in Hampi, caves and cave temples in Badami, lush greenery and rolling hills of Agumbe and Kudremukh.
Places to see in Karnataka include some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Some of the best beach destinations in the state are Gokarna, Mangalore, Udupi, Karwar, Murudeshwar, Kumta and Maravante. These destinations offer some of the most exhilarating water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, banana boat rides, scuba diving, snorkeling and much more. The state is also home to four major rivers that offer some exciting opportunities for activities such as coracle rides, white water rafting, river crossing, etc. For these activities, you can plan a visit to the Hogenakkal Falls, Kabini River or the Mondovi River. Karnataka is rich in culture, heritage, architectural splendor, unique landscapes and amazing wildlife. Karnataka truly is a fascinating holiday destination that caters to the whims of every kind of traveler.
Best Places To Visit In Karnataka
- KOTAGIRI
A quaint hill station surrounded by the majestic Nilgiri mountains, it exudes peace and tranquility in every corner. Kotagiri observes pleasant climatic conditions all year round and boasts several coffee plantations, lush greenery, and tea plantations to tour around.
Kotagiri is also the third-largest hill station in Karnataka, and is believed to have the world’s second-best climate. It serves as a perfect alternative to Ooty if you prefer a lesser crowd as it is much more peaceful than Ooty.
2. Sringeri
A hill town located in the Chikkamagaluru district, and is the first site of matha that was established by Adi Shankara in the 8th century. It holds a historical significant value and is the abode of the Sharadamba of Sringeri.
This ancient hill town is one of the most famous places to see in Karnataka, a hillock that is considered to be the home of the sage Vibhandaka and his son Rishyashringa.
3. Belur
Once the ancient capital of the Hoysala empire, this ancient town is a major tourist destination in Karnataka which is home to the famous Chennakesava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Home to multiple temples, many devotees travel to this town to worship the deities.
Marvel at the ancient architecture of the temples built in the Dravidian style and the Hoysala style of architecture that have intricate carvings which took almost 103 years to finish the temple.
4. Shravanabelagola
Sravanbelagola is known as a crucial pilgrimage for Jain with the height of this temple is 57 meters. it is a monolithic sculpture of Lord Gomateswara, commonly known as The Bahubali statue. Situated almost 144 km away from Bengaluru in the Hassan District, this temple attracts a large number of visitors every year.
Popular Tourist Destinations: Located between two hills Vindyagiri and Chandigiri, this temple is also known as Belagola. Now, if we consider the meaning of Belagola, “bela” refers to the colour white and “kola” refers to pond in Kannada language. Among all the tourist places in Karnataka, this tourist point is the most important place and it takes an entire day to visit all the monuments individually. Visitors who find it difficult to climb both of these hills will get Palanquin or the Dolis which are available for INR 800.
5. Halebidu
Are you looking for some wonderful tourist places in Karnataka? Well, here are some details about Halebid, which will guide you to know about the city in a better way. The city of Halebid has a wonderful collection of temples, sculptures and shrines. The city is also considered the Gem of Indian architecture because of its stunning Jain sites and the temple complexes.
6. Maravanthe
If you are considering the places to visit in Karnataka then there are a lot of options to choose from Maravanthe is known as the getaway for the vacationers which can be the popular one as a nature’s basket with full of mesmerizing views.
Popular Tourist Destinations: During sunset, the whole place is tinted in the shade of sepia mode which looks like just out of a painter’s piece of art. The sunset sets the whole place tinted in the shade of sepia just out of a painter’s canvas. The town is surrounded by Kodachadri Hills and the Arabian sea and The Sauparnika River on the other side of the town. Apart from the natural beauty, the place is fascinated by two villages namely Padukone and Trasi situated in the middle of the city.
Best Time To Visit: September to March
7. Madikeri
The city of Madikeri is situated in Karnataka between Mangalore and Mysore. Madikeri is full of natural beauty, lush green forests, scenic landscapes, monasteries, temples, dazzling waterfalls and much more. If you want to take a break from your daily routine then Madikeri, one of the best tourist places to visit in Karnataka, will offer you a serene and tranquil environment. Numerous ancient buildings, rich traditions and culture have made Madikeri a fascinating attraction.
8. Kanakpura
Get soaked in the clear waters of the waterfall in Kanakpura and experience the lush green forests in Karnataka. Kanakpura is at a distance of 55 km from Bengaluru and is regarded as the perfect weekend getaway or for a short vacation for the people out there. For all wildlife enthusiasts, Kanakpura, a small district in Ramanagara, located on the banks of Arkavathi river is a great opportunity to witness wildlife.
9. Madhugiri
Madhugiri, a small town in the Tumkur district of Karnataka, is considered as the next home to Asia’s largest monolith. This place is located at a distance of 100 km from Bangalore and is a popular tourist destination of Madhugiri Fort. During the reign of the Vijayanagar Dynasty, this fort was built with a dominant historical background.
10. Agumbe
Also known as Cherrapunji of South, Agumbe is popular for its scenic beauty. The hill station is home to several rare medicinal plants such as Myristica, Listsaea and is known for rainforest conservation. Far from the hustle-bustle of the cities, it is one of the perfect places if you are looking for a rejuvenating vacation. The major attractions for the tourists here include visiting Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, going trekking, rafting, hiking, and bike-riding.
11. Ankola
If you are looking for unique and amazing places to visit in Karnataka, Ankola is a good pick. The town is dotted with forests and temples with Mahamaya Temple being a popular tourist attraction. Besides temple tours, the other places you can visit here include Aryadurga temple, Vinhuti falls, Honey beach, and Nadibhag beach. Ankola has some beautiful beaches as well where you can go and enjoy water activities like swimming, waterboarding and more.
12. Sakleshpur
Sakleshpur is a beautiful hill station situated in the heights of the Western Ghats, in Karnataka. You can soak yourself in the aroma of the coffee, tea and spice plantations. The economy of the small-town flourishes on these three plantations. Sakleshpur offers you some spectacular views of natural beauty and rainforests which are pleasing to the eyes.
13. Kemmanagundi
This is a hill station with wide-spread views and visitors will experience beautiful gardens. Vacationers can witness the spectacular beauty of the hills and that is a heaven for all nature and adventure lovers.
Popular Tourist Destinations: The natural beauty comes up from all the dimensions, the lush green dense forest, waterfalls, streams and exquisite gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society of Karnataka is another attraction for visitors who find Karnataka the best place for planning a trip. The place is best for trekking, picnics and especially for nature walks. The tourist attraction includes Hebbe falls, Rock garden, Z point, and the Shiva temple.
14. Kudremukh
Kudremukh is always popular for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. Being a famous hill-station in the crowd of Bangalore, this place is basically a hill range of Karnataka. With the dense forest, grasslands and rolling meadows, Kudremukh is a hotspot for biodiversity.
Popular Tourist Destinations: At an altitude of 1894 meters, the Kudremukh Peak is heaven for trekkers and naturists. The visitors will love to experience the diversity of flora and fauna.
15. Murudeshwar
This holy town features the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world that is beautifully located with The Arabian Sea on all three sides and the majestic Western Ghats showing their presence in the town. A favourite haunt for day trips, the serene beaches and adventure activities are what intrigue travelers the most to visiting this town.
Apart from being a favourite picnic spot, it’s also famous for mesmerizing temples and forts, you can plan a visit to nearby destinations like Netrani island which offer many water sport activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.
16. Mysore
Mysore is one of the largest princely states that has numerous tourist spots for you to get in touch with the royal history of this place. Also known as the city of palaces in southern India, it is the most idyllic destination to visit in Karnataka with a dash of royal touch. The city not just houses world-renowned palaces and landmarks but there are also gleaming beaches near mysore that would surely leave you amazed.
Mysore is also famous for its silk sarees, intricate architecture, sandalwood, royal heritage and yoga. However, the biggest attraction of the city is the Mysore Palace which reflects the beauty and charm of the royal city. Marvel at the elaborate architecture, the intricate carvings, and the stained glass windows. This city won’t leave you disappointed.
17. Chikmagalur
Often known as the coffee land of Karnataka, this place is surrounded by scenic beauty along with the strong aroma of coffee. This hill station is situated at the foothills of Mullayanagiri range and is famous for its serene nature, lush green forests, and the Yagachi River.
Chikmagalur is an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway with friends in Karnataka, being the largest producer of coffee, it is the best place to be for coffee lovers. You can explore the tranquil coffee plantations and go on a nature walk and trekking trails in the hills.
18. Chitradurga Fort
Truly one of the best places to enjoy Karnataka sightseeing, the monument located in Chitradurga town has immense archaeological and historical significance. The fort has witnessed history from the period of The Chalukyas Empire and the renowned legend of Onake Obavva. The fort even has a mention in the epic of Mahabharata.
Chitradurga Fort or Chitaldoorg Fort, as it is locally known, is a fortified structure that connects several hills and a peak overlooking the nearly flat valley.
19. Udupi
Udupi is ethereal, verdant, and blissful. Locked between the misty Western Ghats and The pristine Arabian Sea, Udupi is also known as Odipu in The local language. It is popular for its temples, architecture, wood artifacts, beaches, stone carving, Yakshagana – the theatre art genre, and The special type of local cuisine, which includes Saaru, Koddelu, Huli, Tambuli, Kosambari, Bajji, and such.
20. Badami, Aihole And Pattadakal
Dusty roads, barren topography, red stone architecture, and rocky cliffs iconize the surroundings of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal – the best places to visit in north Karnataka. These Heritage Sites as declared by UNESCO, are the must-visit Karnataka attractions.
You can discover Chalukyan wrecks and ruins while strolling along the century-old temples, caves, and forts in Badami. Aihole has historical connotation and is known as cradle of Hindu rock architecture. Moreover, Pattadakal houses uniquely designed temples. It’s a set of places which you must explore to understand the marvel of the place.
21. Bijapur
As a serene and famous historical town, Bijapur boasts of Deccan’s Islamic Era and its glories inherited making it one of the most beautiful places in Karnataka. Bijapur renamed Vijapura in 2023, is a cultural hub and has plenty of mosques, mausoleums, palaces, and forts as offerings to travellers.
Bijapur is one of the popular tourist spots in Karnataka and has a heart for the Lingayat brand of Shaivism. The Lingayat Siddeshwara Festival is celebrated with full splendor for eight days in January and February here.
22. Hampi
Hampi – a small Kannad village located at the bank of Tungabhadra River is now recognized as World Heritage Site by UNESCO making it one of the best tourist places in North Karnataka. The village showcases ruins and historical remnants of Vijayanagara Kingdom. The stony landscape and barren beauty of the town are one of the perfect places to visit in Karnataka.
History buffs and architecture scholars flock in thousands of numbers here annually. Other curious travelers often feel spell-bound and awestruck by the craftsmanship of the skilled artisans of the era. Hampi has almost 500 architectural structures in its ruins, all of which are worth visiting.
23. Gokarna
Travelers looking for complete solace and solemn pleasure should surely visit Gokarna at least once. This low-key, laid-back, and less-commercialized beach destination has won over millions of travelers and backpackers, and is one of the most famous places in Karnataka.
Gokarna is also an important Hindu pilgrim hub with many age-old temples in its confines. Chilling out on the pristine beaches, enjoying the exciting water sports, and riding on the thrilling catamaran ride has made it a fascinating tourist retreat.
