9 Best Places to Visit in Karnataka (2023)

     Karnataka, a state in southern India, is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and historical sites. Here are some popular holiday destinations in Karnataka :-

 1.       Bangalore Urban District.     Bangalore (Bengaluru), the capital city of Karnataka is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant food scene, shopping malls, beautiful parks, and historical attractions like Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace.

 2.       Mysore District.   Mysore, known for its rich history and magnificent palaces, Mysore is home to the iconic Mysore Palace, the grand Brindavan Gardens, and the vibrant Dasara festival.

 3.       Kodagu District (Coorg).       Coorg, nestled amidst coffee plantations and lush green hills, Coorg offers a serene escape. Visit Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, explore the scenic landscapes, and indulge in coffee plantation tours.

 4.       Hassan District.   Belur and Halebidu, these historical temple towns are famous for their intricately carved Hoysala architecture. The Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu are major attractions.

 5.       Udupi District.     Udupi, known for its ancient Krishna Temple and beautiful beaches, Udupi is a popular pilgrimage and beach destination. Malpe Beach and St. Mary's Island are among the must-visit places.

 6.       Dakshina Kannada District.  Mangalore, a coastal city with beautiful beaches, Mangalore offers a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty. Visit Kadri Manjunath Temple, Mangaladevi Temple, and explore nearby beaches like Panambur and Tannirbhavi.

 7.       Chikmagalur District.  Chikmagalur, surrounded by hills and coffee plantations, Chikmagalur is a paradise for nature lovers. Visit Mullayanagiri (the highest peak in Karnataka), Baba Budangiri, and explore coffee estates.

 8.       Hampi, Bellary District.                   Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi is renowned for its ancient ruins and temples. Explore the Vijayanagara ruins, visit the Virupaksha Temple, and witness the architectural wonders of this historical city.

9.       Bijapur District.  Bijapur, known for its architectural marvels from the Adil Shahi dynasty, Bijapur is home to the iconic Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, and Jama Masjid, showcasing the grandeur of Islamic architecture.

 

Best time to visit

1.       Bangalore can be visited throughout the year due to its pleasant climate. However, the months of October to February are particularly enjoyable with mild temperatures.

2.       The best time to visit Mysore is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the city and attending the Dasara festival, which usually takes place in September or October.

3.       Coorg is best visited from October to March when the weather is cool and comfortable. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rainfall can restrict outdoor activities.

4.       Belur and Halebidu can be visited year-round, but the ideal time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring the historical sites.

5.       Udupi experiences moderate temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit is from October to March, avoiding the monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to September.

6.       The best time to visit Mangalore is from October to February when the weather is mild and pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season as heavy rains are common from June to September.

7.       Chikmagalur is best visited from September to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to August) offers lush greenery but can be accompanied by heavy rainfall.

8.       The best time to visit Hampi is from October to March when the weather is cool and suitable for exploring the historical ruins. Avoid visiting during the scorching summer months from April to June.

9.       The best time to visit Bijapur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for exploring the architectural wonders of the city.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and specific weather conditions may vary from year to year. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and local conditions before planning your trip.

 

How to Reach

1.       Bangalore

o       By Air: Bangalore has an international airport, Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), with direct flights from major cities in India and abroad.
 
o       By Train: Bangalore is well-connected to various cities in India through an extensive rail network. It has two major railway stations: Bangalore City Junction (SBC) and Yesvantpur Junction (YPR).
 

o       By Road: Bangalore is connected to neighboring cities and states through a network of national highways and state highways. You can reach Bangalore by bus or hire a taxi or self-drive.

 

2.       Mysore

o        By Air: The nearest airport to Mysore is the Mysore Airport (MYQ), which has limited domestic connectivity. Alternatively, you can reach Bangalore Airport and then avel to Mysore by road (about 3 hours).

 

o        By Train: Mysore Junction (MYS) is the main railway station in Mysore, well-connected to major cities in India.

 

o        By Road: Mysore is well-connected by road, and regular bus services are available from nearby cities like Bangalore. You can also hire a taxi or drive from Bangalore (about 3 hours).

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

         o       By Air: The nearest airport to Coorg is Mangalore International Airport (IXE),         which is approximately a 4-hour drive from Coorg.

 

o       By Train: The nearest railway stations to Coorg are Mysore Junction (MYS) and Kannur Railway Station (Cannanore) in Kerala. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg.

 

o       By Road: Coorg is well-connected by road. You can reach Coorg by bus from major cities like Bangalore and Mysore. Private taxis and self-driving are also common options.

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 o        By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Belur and Halebidu.

 

o        By Train: The nearest railway stations are Hassan Railway Station (HAS) and Chikmagalur Railway Station (CMGR). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the temples.

 

o        By Road: Belur and Halebidu are well-connected by road. You can reach these places by bus or hire a taxi.

 

5.       Udupi

 

o        By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is around 60 km away from Udupi. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Udupi.

 

o        By Train: Udupi has its own railway station (UD) on the Konkan Railway route, connecting it to major cities like Mumbai, Goa, and Mangalore.

 

o        By Road: Udupi is well-connected by road. Regular bus services are available from nearby cities like Mangalore. Private taxis and self-driving are also common options.

Please note that transportation options may vary, and it's advisable to check the latest schedules and availability before planning your trip.

 

Connectivity

 1.       From Bangalore.

 

o       Distance from Bangalore to Mysore is approximately 150 km. It is well-connected by road with regular bus services and trains. The travel time by road is around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.

 

o       Distance from Bangalore to Coorg is approximately 270 km. You can reach Coorg by road via Mysore or by hiring a taxi. The travel time is around 5 to 6 hours.

 

o       Distance from Bangalore to Belur is approximately 220 km, and Halebidu is around 215 km. You can reach Belur and Halebidu by road via Hassan. The travel time is around 4 to 5 hours.

 

o       Distance from Bangalore to Udupi is approximately 410 km. It is well-connected by road with regular bus services and trains. The travel time by road is around 7 to 8 hours.

 

2.       From Mysore

 o        Distance from Mysore to Coorg is approximately 120 km. You can reach Coorg by road via Hunsur or Virajpet. The travel time is around 2 to 3 hours.

 

o        Distance from Mysore to Belur is approximately 160 km, and Halebidu is around 155 km. You can reach Belur and Halebidu by road via Hassan. The travel time is around 3 to 4 hours.

 

o        Distance from Mysore to Udupi is approximately 350 km. You can reach Udupi by road via Mangalore or by train. The travel time is around 7 to 8 hours.

 

3.       From Coorg (Kodagu)

 o        Distance from Coorg to Belur is approximately 170 km, and Halebidu is around 165 km. You can reach Belur and Halebidu by road via Hassan. The travel time is around 3 to 4 hours.

 

o        Distance from Coorg to Udupi is approximately 340 km. You can reach Udupi by road via Mangalore. The travel time is around 6 to 7 hours.

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 o        Distance from Belur to Udupi is approximately 130 km. You can reach Udupi by road via Mangalore. The travel time is around 3 to 4 hours.

 Please note that these distances and travel times are approximate and can vary depending on the specific route taken, traffic conditions, and mode of transportation. It's always advisable to plan your journey and check for any updates or changes in road conditions before starting your trip.

 

Best Accommodations Options

1.       Bangalore

§     The Oberoi, Bangalore

§     Taj West End

§     JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru

§     The Leela Palace Bengaluru

§     Shangri-La Hotel Bengaluru

 

2.       Mysore

 §     The Lalitha Mahal Palace

§     Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore

§     Royal Orchid Metropole

§     Fortune JP Palace

§     Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mysore

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 §     Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg

§     The Tamara Coorg

§     Club Mahindra Madikeri Resort and Spa

§     Orange County, Coorg

§     Ibnii Spa Resort, Coorg

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 §     Hoysala Village Resort, Hassan

§     The Ashhok Hassan

§     Hotel Hoysala Village Resort, Belur

§     Stay Simple Riverdale Resort, Belur

§     The Serai, Chikmagalur (located nearby)

 

5.       Udupi

 §     Paradise Isle Beach Resort

§     Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Manipal

§     Summer Park Hotel, Manipal

§     Wild Woods Spa & Resort, Kundapur (located nearby)

§     Sterling Karwar (located nearby)

 Please note that availability, pricing, and quality of accommodations can vary over time. It is recommended to visit popular travel websites, review aggregators, and official hotel websites to get the most up-to-date information and make informed decisions about your stay.

 

Best Places to do Adventure Activities

 1.       Bangalore

 §     Paragliding at Nandi Hills

§     Paintball at various adventure parks

§     Go-karting at a racing track

§     Rock climbing at outdoor adventure centers

§     Skydiving at the nearby town of Mysore

 

2.       Mysore

 §     Wildlife safari at Bandipur National Park

§     Trekking at Chamundi Hills

§     River rafting in the nearby Cauvery River

§     Zip-lining at adventure parks

§     Hot air balloon ride over Mysore

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 §     Trekking to Tadiandamol Peak

§     White-water rafting in the Barapole River

§     Jeep safaris in Nagarhole National Park

§     Camping and bonfires amidst coffee plantations

§     Kayaking or canoeing in the rivers and lakes of Coorg

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 §     Heritage walks exploring the ancient temples and ruins

§     Cycling tours around the scenic countryside

§     Birdwatching in the surrounding areas

§     Nature hikes in the Western Ghats

§     Village visits and cultural experiences

 

5.       Udupi

 §     Scuba diving and snorkeling at St. Mary's Island

§     Jet skiing and banana boat rides at Malpe Beach

§     Surfing lessons at the nearby beaches

§     Kayaking and paddleboarding in the backwaters

§     Fishing trips and boat tours along the coast

 Please note that the availability of certain adventure activities may depend on factors such as weather conditions, seasonal variations, and local regulations. It's recommended to check with local tour operators, adventure companies, or resorts in each destination for specific details, safety guidelines, and booking information.

 

Beaches and Waterfalls

 1.       Bangalore

 o        Beaches: Bangalore is a landlocked city, so it doesn't have any beaches. However, you can visit the man-made beaches at resorts like Guhantara Resort, where you can enjoy beach-like experiences.

 

o        Waterfalls: There are a few waterfalls near Bangalore that you can visit, including Chunchi Falls, Mekedatu Falls, and Shivanasamudra Falls.

 

2.       Mysore

 o        Beaches: Mysore is also an inland city, so it doesn't have any beaches. The nearest coastal destination is Mangalore, which is approximately 250 km away from Mysore and offers beautiful beaches like Panambur Beach and Ullal Beach.

 

o        Waterfalls: Some popular waterfalls near Mysore include Shivanasamudra Falls, Abbey Falls (in Coorg), and Jog Falls (around 150 km away).

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 o        Beaches: Coorg is a hill station and doesn't have any beaches.

 

o        Waterfalls: Coorg is known for its beautiful waterfalls, including Abbey Falls, Irupu Falls, and Mallalli Falls.

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 o        Beaches: Belur and Halebidu are inland destinations without any beaches.

 

o        Waterfalls: While there aren't any major waterfalls in close proximity, you can visit the nearby Manjarabad Fort and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

 

5.       Udupi

 o        Beaches: Udupi is known for its beautiful beaches, including Malpe Beach, Kapu Beach, and Kodi Beach.

 

o        Waterfalls: There are no major waterfalls in Udupi. However, you can visit nearby destinations like Agumbe (approximately 50 km away) to explore the picturesque Onake Abbi Falls and Jogigundi Falls.

 

Best Fun Activities and Attractions for Kids

1.       Bangalore

§     Visiting Cubbon Park and enjoying the toy train ride.

§     Exploring the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium and learning about space.

§     Spending a day at Wonderla Amusement Park, featuring various rides and attractions.

§     Visiting the Innovative Film City, offering activities like the Dino Park, Mirror Maze, and Wax Museum.

§     Enjoying indoor entertainment centers like Fun World, Snow City, or Amoeba.

 

2.       Mysore

 §     Exploring the Mysore Zoo, which houses a wide variety of animals.

§     Visiting the Regional Museum of Natural History and the Railway Museum.

§     Enjoying a boat ride in Karanji Lake and observing birds and butterflies.

§     Spending time at GRS Fantasy Park, a water and amusement park with various rides and slides.

§     Watching the grand procession and festivities during the Dasara festival.

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 §     Taking a leisurely walk in coffee plantations and learning about the coffee-making process.

§     Visiting Dubare Elephant Camp and getting up close with elephants.

§     Enjoying a ride on the toy train at Coorg Vintage World, a museum showcasing vintage cars and toys.

§     Trekking or nature walks amidst the beautiful landscapes of Coorg.

§     Trying outdoor activities like zip-lining or adventure rope courses.

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 §     Exploring the magnificent temples and marveling at the intricate carvings.

§     Engaging in storytelling sessions about the historical significance of the temples.

§     Learning about the Hoysala architecture through guided tours or interactive exhibits.

§     Taking part in cultural workshops to experience traditional arts and crafts.

 

5.       Udupi

 §     Visiting St. Mary's Island, a unique geological formation with beautiful rock formations and clear waters.

§     Spending time at Malpe Beach, where kids can enjoy playing in the sand and taking boat rides.

§     Exploring the Manipal Science Center, an interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits.

§     Enjoying water sports activities like jet skiing or banana boat rides at the beaches.

§     Trying local cuisine and experiencing the vibrant food culture of Udupi.

 Remember to consider the age and interests of your children when planning activities, and always ensure their safety during any adventure or outdoor activities.

 

 

Best Food Options

 1.       Bangalore

 §     Food Street in VV Puram: This bustling street is known for its wide variety of street food stalls serving local delicacies like masala dosa, vada pav, chaats, and more.

§     MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms): A legendary eatery in Bangalore, known for its authentic South Indian breakfast items like idli, vada, and masala dosa.

§     Brahmin's Coffee Bar: A popular spot for filter coffee and mouthwatering breakfast dishes like idli, vada, kesari bath, and chow chow bath.

 

2.       Mysore

 §     Mysore Masala Dosa: Mysore is famous for its unique take on masala dosa, which includes a spicy red chutney spread inside the dosa along with the traditional potato filling. You can try it at popular local eateries like Vinayaka Mylari, Hotel RRR, or Hotel Vinayaka Bhavan.

§     GTR (Guru Tegh Bahadur's) Thindi: Known for its delectable breakfast offerings like idli, vada, and dosa, this iconic eatery in Mysore is a must-visit for food lovers.

§     Mysore Pak: A popular sweet treat in Mysore, Mysore Pak is a rich and dense sweet made with ghee, sugar, and gram flour. You can taste the authentic Mysore Pak at Guru Sweet Mart or Guru Sweets.

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 §     Pandi Curry: Coorg is famous for its pork preparations, and Pandi Curry (pork curry) is a must-try dish. You can savor this Coorgi specialty at popular local eateries like Coorg Cuisine or Coorg Foodland.

§     Bamboo Shoot Curry: Another traditional Coorgi dish, Bamboo Shoot Curry, is a delicious vegetarian curry made with locally sourced bamboo shoots. You can taste it at places like Coorg Cuisine or Coorg Annapoorna.

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 §     Local Karnataka Cuisine: While Belur and Halebidu are known for their historical attractions rather than specific food points, you can enjoy traditional Karnataka cuisine at nearby towns like Hassan. Don't miss the chance to taste dishes like Bisi Bele Bath (a rice and lentil dish with vegetables), Maddur Vada, and Ragi Mudde (finger millet dumplings).

 

5.       Udupi

 §     Udupi Cuisine: Udupi is famous for its vegetarian cuisine, particularly the Udupi-style dosa, idli, sambar, and rasam. You can relish the authentic Udupi food at iconic restaurants like Woodlands or Mitra Samaj.

 These are just a few examples of the famous food points and culinary experiences at these destinations. Karnataka is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, so be sure to explore the local eateries and try regional specialties wherever you go.

 

Best Shopping Options

1.       Bangalore

 §     Phoenix Marketcity: Located in Whitefield, it is one of the largest shopping malls in Bangalore, offering a wide range of retail outlets, entertainment options, and dining choices.

§     Orion Mall: Situated in Rajajinagar, it is a popular mall known for its international and domestic brands, along with a multiplex cinema and a variety of dining options.

§     VR Bengaluru: Located in Whitefield, this mall combines retail spaces with a mix of entertainment, including a multi-screen cinema, an amphitheater, and a rooftop microbrewery.

 

2.       Mysore

 §     Forum Centre City Mall: Situated in the heart of Mysore, it is a prominent shopping destination offering various retail outlets, a supermarket, and food courts.

§     Mall of Mysore: This mall is located near Mysore Zoo and features a mix of local and national brands, a multiplex cinema, and restaurants.

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 §     Coorg Mall: Located in Madikeri, Coorg Mall is a smaller shopping complex offering a variety of stores, souvenir shops, and local handicrafts.

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 §     Belur Shopping Complex: While Belur and Halebidu are known for their historical attractions, you can find small shopping complexes in the vicinity that offer local handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing.

 

5.       Udupi

 §     City Centre Mall: Situated in Udupi, it is a prominent shopping mall housing various retail outlets, a multiplex cinema, and food courts.

 Additionally, there may be local markets and street shopping options in these places where you can find traditional crafts, spices, and local produce. It's always recommended to explore local markets and seek recommendations from locals for authentic shopping experiences in each destination.

 

Religious Places

1.       Bangalore

 §     ISKCON Temple Bangalore: Dedicated to Lord Krishna, it is one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world and attracts devotees and visitors from around the globe.

§     Bull Temple (Dodda Basavana Gudi): This ancient temple is known for its massive monolithic statue of Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva.

 

2.       Mysore

 §     Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas Palace): A magnificent palace known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance, it also houses a temple dedicated to the royal deity, Chamundi Devi.

§     Chamundeshwari Temple: Situated atop Chamundi Hills, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysore.

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 §     Omkareshwara Temple: Located in Madikeri, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a unique blend of Islamic and Gothic architectural styles.

§     Talacauvery and Bhagamandala Temples: Situated near Coorg, these temples hold religious significance as the birthplace of the sacred River Cauvery.

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu\

 §     Chennakesava Temple, Belur: This famous 12th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and architectural brilliance.

§     Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu: A magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it showcases exquisite craftsmanship and intricate sculptures.

 

5.       Udupi

 §     Udupi Sri Krishna Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Karnataka. It is known for its unique worshipping practices and delicious vegetarian food offerings.

 

Other Glimpses

1.       Bangalore

·                    IT Hub: Bangalore is often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of India" due to its thriving IT industry and numerous multinational companies.

·                    Gardens and Parks: Bangalore is known for its abundance of green spaces, including Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, and the iconic Bangalore Palace with its beautiful gardens.

 

2.       Mysore

·                    Dasara Festival: Mysore is renowned for its grand Dasara festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. The city comes alive with elaborate processions, cultural performances, and the lighting of the Mysore Palace.

·                    Mysore Silk: Mysore is famous for its exquisite silk sarees, known as Mysore Silk, which are known for their fine craftsmanship and vibrant colors.

 

3.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 ·                Coffee Plantations: Coorg is known for its lush coffee plantations, offering visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about coffee cultivation, processing, and tasting.

·             Kodava Culture: Coorg is home to the Kodava people, who have a distinct culture, traditions, and unique martial arts form known as "Kalaripayattu."

 

4.       Belur and Halebidu

 ·       Hoysala Architecture: The temples of Belur and Halebidu showcase the exquisite Hoysala architecture, characterized by intricate stone carvings, detailed sculptures, and craftsmanship that is highly regarded for its beauty and intricacy.

 

5.       Udupi

 ·         Udupi Cuisine: Udupi is known for its delectable vegetarian cuisine, especially the Udupi-style dosa, idli, sambar, and rasam, which have gained popularity worldwide.

·           Udupi Sri Krishna Temple: The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple follows a unique system of worship where the deity is seen through a silver-plated window with nine holes, symbolizing Krishna's childhood.

 

Theme based Accommodation

 1.       Coorg (Kodagu)

 §     Tree House Accommodations: Some resorts in Coorg offer tree house accommodations amidst the coffee plantations, providing a unique and immersive experience close to nature.

§     Riverside or Lakeside Cottages: There are resorts in Coorg that offer cottages built on the banks of rivers or lakes, providing a serene and tranquil stay.

 

2.       Udupi

 §     Beachside Resorts: Udupi has resorts located near the beaches that offer beachside cottages or villas, providing a picturesque setting and easy access to the sandy shores.

§     Houseboat Stays: Although Udupi is not primarily known for houseboats, you can find houseboat experiences in nearby destinations like Mangalore or Karwar, offering stays on traditional houseboats floating on the rivers or backwaters.

 

3.       Mysore

 §     Heritage Hotels: Mysore has several heritage properties that offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. Some of these hotels are converted palaces or mansions, offering a unique stay experience.

§     Palace-themed Resorts: Some resorts in Mysore are designed with a palace-like ambiance, incorporating regal architecture and opulent interiors.

 Please note that the availability and offerings of theme-based accommodations can vary, and it's advisable to research and contact specific hotels or resorts in each destination to inquire about their themed accommodations or unique stay experiences.