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Introduction
Karnataka is located in Southern India, bordered on the north by Maharashtra and Goa, on the east by Andhra Pradesh, and on the south by Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The Arabian Sea washes the state's western coast, which is dotted with beautiful beaches.
 
The country's fourth most popular tourist state, Karnataka, has a wide range of attractions to offer you. Karnataka Tourism is focused on the state's ancient ruins, temples, monuments, wine, silk, and sandalwood, among other things. The lush green Western Ghats, roaring Jog waterfalls, densely forested Sahyadri, and rich wildlife sanctuaries like Nagarhole and Bandipur are all found in Karnataka.
 
It also has many nationally protected monuments and over 34,000 temples, which contribute to the state's increased tourism. It has the second-highest number of protected monuments in India, with Hampi housing the most. It was the Vijayanagara Empire's capital. The statue of Lord Gomteshwar in Shravanabelagola, the world's largest monolith structure, attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year.
 
Karnataka has its own platter of flavours, sports, things to do, and enormous places to visit, largely propelled by the silicon-capital Bengaluru, which is brimming with superior life and lifestyle. The lush green hills dotted with aromatic coffee and spice plantations, vast population of elephants (highest in Asia), tigers, resplendent majesty of Mysore, and thick juniper forest envelop the sybaritic region.
 
10 Nights / 11 Days

Triangle Tour of Karnataka

11 Nights/ 12 days

Karnataka with Goa

10 Nights / 11 Days

Karnataka Tour

06 Nights/ 07 Days

Golden Triangle of Karnataka

15 Days / 14 Nights

Explore Karnataka With Andhra Tour

10 Nights / 11 Days

Karnataka Wild Adventure Tour

14 Nights / 15 Days

Goa Adventure Tour with Karnataka

14 Nights / 15 Days

Best of Two Karnataka and Tamil Nadu

06 Nights / 07 Days

Karnataka with Hampi

10 Nights / 11 Days

Complete Karnataka Wildlife Tour

Traditions and Culture
With places like Mysore, Hampi, and Pattadakallu to visit, Karnataka is renowned for its tradition and scenic beauty. Without mentioning the state's rich heritage, Karnataka culture and tradition would be incomplete. Karnataka is a state where people of all faiths live, but Hindu beliefs and customs predominate. The culture is replete with proper reverence for elders and even any other person.
 
Literature, architecture, folklore, music, painting, and other types of art in Karnataka have a significant influence on the people. Various ancient buildings and temples can be found here, as well as Mauryan Empire unique architecture. The stone statue of the Jain saint Bahubali, who lived in the 10th century, can be seen here. It is also possible to see the influence of the Chalukyas and the Pallava Empire.
 
Karnataka is a religious melting pot, with Hinduism being the most common. The Buddha religion was one of the most common religions in some parts of Karnataka during the first millennium, such as Gulbarga and Banvasi. Karnataka is also home to a Tibetan refugee camp. Many sects in Karnataka practise Jainism, though Christianity and Islam are also practised.
 
Karnataka's culture and heritage have a strong emphasis on language. The Kannadigas have taken over nearly a third of the province. The Tuluvas, Konkanis, and Kodavas have occupied the whole of Karnataka. Kannada is spoken as a first language by nearly 74 percent of Karnataka residents (or Kannadigas). Tulu, Konkani, Kodava, and Urdu are among the other languages spoken here.
 
Sarees, such as the Ilkal Saree and Mysore Silk, are common among women. The draping style of sarees varies from region to region in Karnataka; areas such as Kodagu, south and north Karnataka, and Karavali have distinct draping styles. Davani is a well-known traditional dress among young women. Dhoti is the local term for men's traditional clothing, which is known as Panche. Mysore Peta is a typical headgear in southern Karnataka, though pagadi or patanga (similar to a turban) is favoured in northern Karnataka.
 
In this area, both Carnatic and Hindustani music flourished. Karnataka is one of the few places in the world where both Hindustani and Carnatic singers thrive. Hindustani music is common in North Karnataka, while Carnatic music is popular in South Karnataka.
 
In Karnataka, traditional dance and art forms include Beesu Kamsale, Dollu Kunita, Goravara Kunita, Kamsale, Kolaata, Paata Kunita, Puravanthike, Kangilu Kunita, Bolukat, Dappu Kunita, Suggi Kunita, Ummathat, Chitmela, and Gumatepong. Yakshagana, a type of dance drama, is one of the most common types of entertainment in coastal Karnataka.
 
There are 50 different tribes in Karnataka, each with their own traditions and customs. Another form of indigenous art is tribal art. Mud painting, known as Hase Chitra, is a revived art form that originated in the Shimoga and Karwar districts.
 
Fair and Festivals

Fairs and Festivals of Karnataka:

There is no better way to appreciate a destination than to participate in its local festivities. You not only get a taste of the state's culture, but you also learn more about each festival's significance. Karnataka is one of those states where you can enjoy the best of art, culture, and festivities. There is plenty to see and do, from dance festivals to pujas and cultural activities. Here are some of the major ones:

  • Ganesh Chaturthi: This is a festival that we are all familiar with. It is the day on which we worship Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Clay idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in all holy shrines and prayed upon in public places, while a small area of the house is cleaned and the idol is placed and prayed upon in private homes.
  • Kannada Rajyotsava: Every year on November 1st, Kannada Rajyotsava (Karnataka Formation Day) is commemorated. This was the date in 1956 when all of South India's Kannada-speaking regions combined to create the state of Karnataka. The Rajyotsava day is a government holiday in Karnataka, and it is observed by Kannadigas all over the country.
  • Kambala Festival: The Kambala festival is an annual buffalo race organised by the farming communities in the Dakshin Kannada and Udipi districts of Karnataka. Between November and March, this sporting event takes place. This two-day festival is well-known for its buffalo race. More than 150 buffaloes have been specially trained for this one of Karnataka's most spectacular festivals.
  • Ugadi: It is a popular festival in the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, and it is widely observed. This time is thought to be very auspicious by the locals, particularly for those starting new ventures. Since it is believed that Lord Brahma created the world, Ugadi is a shortened form of the terms 'Yuga' (which means time or generation) and 'Adi' (which means beginnings).
  • Hoysala Mahotsava: This spectacular dance festival is held in locations such as Belur and Helebid. The magnificent Hoysala temples are the epitome of exquisite sculpture, making them the ideal setting for this cultural event. It is well-known throughout the month of March.
  • Hampi Festival: Hampi festival, also known as Vijaya Utsava, is a grand event in South India. It is a cultural extravaganza held in the South Indian village of Hampi, a well-known tourist and heritage destination. Famous artists and musicians perform at the Karnataka festival, showcasing their incredible talent and spirit. The streets are lined with stalls selling handicrafts and small trinkets.
  • Karaga Festival: Karaga is a folk dance performed as a ritual dedicated to Draupadi on a full moon day. One of Bengaluru's oldest festivals, it is held every year. Since the demon Tripurasura was still alive at the end of Mahabharata, Draupadi assumed the form of a shakti goddess and formed soldiers known as Veerakumaras. In his temporary Devi State, a Karaga carrier dressed as a woman carries the Karaga, which is a pyramid covered in flowers, and visits all the Veerakumaras.
  • Tula Sankramana Coorg Festival: It is a joyful festival commemorating Goddess Cauvery's worship. Also known as theerthodbhava, it is celebrated with zeal in the month of October, especially in the Karnataka region of Kodagu. Bhaktas from all over the world gather in large numbers, believing that the Goddess would emerge from the sea, to take a dip in the holy Cauvery water and seek blessings from the lord. 
 
Must Visit Place

Must Visiting Places in Karnataka:

Decorated with spellbound beaches, diverse biodiversity, ancient towns, rugged mountains, diverse biodiversity, and more. Karnataka's cities are a blend of modernity and old-world charm. Travellers from all over the world flock to Karnataka's famous tourist destinations to spend quality time with their friends and family. These top tourist attractions in Karnataka are not to be missed:

  1. Bengaluru- The state capital of Karnataka is Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore. It is situated on the Deccan Plateau in southern India. Traditions and modernity coexist in the city. Waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and brooks and rivers abound in the lush greenery surrounding Bangalore, just waiting to be discovered. It has earned the moniker of the "Garden City of India" due to the presence of lush gardens and pastoral grounds. The city's wonders include Cubbon Park, Ulsoor Lake, Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park, Bugle Rock Park, and Lumbini Garden.
  2. Mysuru- Mysuru or Mysore, the former capital of the Mysore Maharajas, is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka and one of the must-see destinations. Mysore is one of the top Heritage sites in India, with its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, renowned silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood. Mysore, also known as the City of Palaces, maintains its old world charm with its palaces, heritage buildings, and temples.
  3. Coorg- Coorg is a popular coffee-producing hill station in Karnataka, set among imposing mountains with a perpetually misty landscape. It's known for its lush green hills and streams that run right through them. It is also a popular tourist destination due to its culture and people.
  4. Gokarna- Millions of travellers and backpackers have flocked to this low-key, laid-back, and less-commercialized beach destination, making it one of Karnataka's most well-known destinations. Gokarna is also a major Hindu pilgrimage centre, with numerous ancient temples within its borders. Relaxing on the pristine beaches, participating in fun water sports, and taking a thrilling catamaran ride have all contributed to making it a fascinating trip.
  5. Badami- Badami, known for its exquisitely carved cave temples, reveals Karnataka's rich heritage. This famous tourist attraction in Karnataka is filled with striking images and sculptures of prominent Hindu Gods like Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, as well as Jain Gods like Lord Mahavira.
  6. Hampi- Hampi, one of Karnataka's most treasured gems, is rich in history and tranquilly. It draws adventurers, architecture buffs, off-the-beaten-path tourists, and devotees from all over the world. The ruins of Hampi, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, do not deserve the adjective "ruined." Visit for the temples, walks, or simply to savour the delectable local cuisine.
  7. Udupi- Udupi is a popular pilgrimage destination in Karnataka and is known for its beautiful beaches. Sri Krishna Temple, which draws pilgrims from all over India, is well-known. Udupi, situated between the verdant Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, is a land of breathtaking beauty.
  8. Pattadakal- Pattadakal is part of the Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal complex, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the best example of Chalukyan architecture. It sits on the banks of the Malaprabha River and has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages.
  9. Bandipur National Park- For nature lovers and bird watchers, the popular tiger reserve and bird sanctuary is a quaint retreat. Bandipur National Park has become one of the best places to visit in Karnataka for a day picnic due to the large number of nature lovers who flock there. The national park, which was once a private hunting ground for the Maharajas of Mysore, is now home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including wild elephants, spotted deer, and tigers.
  10. Nagarhole National Park- Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is another Tiger Reserve in Karnataka. Bengal tigers, Asiatic elephants, wild dogs, sambar deer, leopards, and a number of bird species live in this 640-square-kilometer sanctuary. Another draw in this park is the teak and rosewood trees.
  11. Shravanabelagola- Shravanabelagola, a popular tourist destination in Karnataka, is known for the Bahubali statue of Lord Gomateswara. This 58-foot-tall statue was carved from a single granite block. It is thought to be the world's tallest monolithic stone statue. Every year, the statue draws a large number of visitors and travellers from all over the world.
  12. Jog Falls- Jog Falls, located in the Shimoga district, is one of Karnataka's most popular tourist attractions. During the monsoons, the majestic Sharavathi Falls are at their most spectacular. It is one of India's highest waterfalls, falling from a height of 253 metres above sea level.
  13. Aihole- Aihole, which is located on the banks of the river Malaprabha, is historically significant as the Chaluka Dynasty's capital. Thousands of tourists visit Aihole each year to see the many important Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain heritage sites, such as temples, caves, and monuments.
  14. Murudeshwar- Murudeshwar was previously identified as 'Mrideshwara.' After the completion of the Murudeshwar temple, it was called Murudeshwar. Murudeshwar Temple is home to the world's second-tallest Shiva statue (123 feet) and the world's tallest temple tower (249 feet). The temple, which stands atop Kanduka Giri, is surrounded on three sides by the sea. This is a fantastic spot to watch the sunsets. Murudeshwar Fort, Murudeshwar Beach, and Netrani Island are the other places of interest here.
  15. Bijapur- Bijapur is a tourist destination in Karnataka that transports tourists back in time through its magnificent ancient buildings, including the Gol Gumbaj and Ibrahim Rauza, which is known as the Taj Mahal of the Deccan.
  16. Srirangapatna- This ancient river island town in the form of an egg is surrounded on all sides by the river Kaveri and is a famous picnic spot located 22 kilometres from Mysore in Karnataka's Mandya district. The town has an old world charm, retro vibes, and historical significance, making it one of Karnataka's most popular tourist destinations. Places of interest here are Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Dariya Daulat Palace, Balmuri Falls and Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon.
  17. Bidar- From the Tuglaqs to the Nizams, Bidar has been ruled by several dynasties, all of whom have contributed to the city's rich and unique culture. It is home to Nanak Jhira Sahib, one of Karnataka's most popular tourist attractions, particularly for Sikhs.
  18. Chikmagalur- Chikmagalur is located at an elevation of 3,400 feet and is surrounded by beautiful tea and coffee plantations, making it a major commercial hub for the state as well as a popular tourist destination for the unique experience of walking through the plantations. Chikmagalur, with its lush green trees and majestic Mullayangiri ranges, is one of the most popular destinations for trekkers, nature lovers, thrill seekers, and explorers. Numerous temples, including the Sharadamba Temple, Vidyashankara Temple, Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple, and Amruteshwar Temple, grace the pious region, attracting devotees from all over the world.
  19. Belur- Belur is known for the magnificent Hoysala Temple, which was constructed in 1117 CE by King Vishnuvardhana. It is the highest of three Hoysala temples nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is dedicated to Lord Chennakesava (other two being the temples at Halebid & Somnathpur). The Hoysala temples are known for their minute and intricate carvings and sculptures that are polished to look like metal. One of the most popular temples in Sri Lanka is Sri Chennakesava Temple.
 

 

Cuisine
The cuisine of Karnataka is influenced by its neighbours, including Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. The flavours, on the other hand, differ from one area to the next. The tangy seafood of Mangalore and Uttara Canara is well-known. Baths of various types are common in South Karnataka. In contrast to the rest of Karnataka, the food in North Karnataka is much spicier. Ragi, corn, and jowar are examples of staple food grains.
 
Some worth trying dishes are:
  • Bisi Bele Bhath: One of the most famous Karnataka dishes is Bisi Bele Bhath. A flavorful all-in-one dish made up of rice, lentils, vegetables, and spices cooked together. It's typically accompanied by a generous helping of ghee and boondi (potato chips). Bisi means "sweet" in Kannada, so this dish is best served hot.
  • Davangere Benne Dosa: Benne dosa is one of Davangere's signature dishes. Benne means butter in Kannada, so these are butter dosas. This is one of the crispiest, softest, and butteriest dosas I've ever had. Puffed rice and urad dal are used to make it. As a result, the texture of these dosas is crisp yet gentle. Benne dosa from Davangere is typically eaten with potato palya, a potato filling, and coconut chutney.
  • Kori Gassi: Kori Gassi is a delectable chicken curry with coconut and tangy tamarind flavours. It is a Mangalore Bunt specialty, with Kori meaning chicken and Gassi meaning curry. This tasty curry pairs well with rice crepes.
  • Mysore Masala Dosa: A much loved dish, not only in Karnataka but across the nation is Mysore Masala Dosa. The unique red spice mix smeared on the inside of the dosa is what distinguishes Mysore Masala Dosa from other dosas. The red spice mix's flavour and the crispiness of the Dosa will leave you wanting more. With coconut chutney, sambar, and plenty of ghee, the dosa is at its best.
  • Neer Dosa: In Tulu, the word 'neer' means 'water.' The rice dosa known as neer dosa is a common dish in India. Rice must be soaked overnight for a few hours in water to make the dosa, and fermentation is not necessary. Due to the abundance of rice in Karnataka, Neer Dosa can be found in a variety of locations and restaurants. Chutney, curry, or sambar are served with neer dosa.
  • Mysore Pak: Karnataka's Mysore Pak is a well-known sweet. It was first made with chickpea flour, ghee (clarified butter), and sugar in the kitchens of the Mysore Palace. The texture varies depending on how much ghee is used, from rough and brittle (less ghee) to smooth, dense, and fudge-like (more ghee) (more ghee).
  • Ragi Mudde: Ragi is one of Karnataka's staple foods. Ragi flour and water are used to make ragi mudde, or soft finger millet balls. Upsaaru or soppina saaru, a leafy vegetable curry, is eaten with ragi mudde. Ragi mudde has the advantage of being easy to swallow and filling the stomach quickly. Apart from that, the flavour and taste of ragi are what make it one of Karnataka's most popular recipes.
  • Coorg Pandi Curry: This dish is filled with bold flavours, with pork mixed with roasted spices and sauteed with onion, garlic, cloves, and coriander leaves.
  • Chow Chow Bhath: Khara Bhath and Kesari Bhath are two dishes in one. Though Khara Bath is a spicy Upma made with peanuts and vegetables, Kesari Bath is a sweet Halwa with a saffron flavour. Semolina (sooji) is used in both of these delectable dishes. It is the state of Karnataka's favourite breakfast dish.
  • Kundapura Koli Saaru: The Mangalorean coastal region's Kundapura Koli Saaru style of chicken curry is very popular. The curry's gravy is made with onion, garlic, ginger, and other spices, as well as coconut milk. The curry goes well with neer dosa, roti, and even rice.
  • Maddur Vada: Maddur Vada is a famous snack named after Maddur, a town in Mandya. Maddur Vadas, unlike normal vadas, which resemble doughnuts, are wide and circular. They're made with rice, onions, semolina, and spices, then deep-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are one of the most common Karnataka foods.
  • Thatte Idli: Idli is one of India's most common and well-known breakfasts. Idli is common all over the world, despite its origins in Karnataka. Plate is the Kannada word for thatte. As a result, thatte idli is a disc or plate-shaped idli. Typically, one thatte idli equals two regular idlis. Thatte idli is also softer and more porous. It's served with red, green, or sambar chutney.
 
FAQ’s

A trip to Karnataka in South India is comparable to a legendary vacation. In the evergreen undulating hills of Mysore's palaces, coffee and spice farms, and rich cultural heritage. Karnataka's ancient sites vividly depict the illustrious past of mighty empires. In practically every way, Karnataka will entice you. Whether you are a spiritual traveller, an adventurer, a beach hopper, a mountain traveller, or a history buff, Karnataka has something to suit your varied tastes.



 

The people of Karnataka celebrate a number of festivals according to their respective religions and customs. Mysore An opulent 10-day festival called Dusshera is held during Navaratri in the months of September or October. Married women celebrate Gowri Habba celebration, a day before Ganesh Chaturthi, to praise Goddess Gauri. Three-day Hampi Utsav, an annual festival, features performances by artists from all over India in a variety of folk and classical dance styles, music, and other genres. Kambala is a buffalo race that is primarily celebrated in South Karnataka and is often held between November and March. Every 12 years, Mahamastakabhisheka, a well-known Jain event, takes place in Shravanabelagola. Other important occasions include the Padakkal Dance Festival, Ugadi, Holi, Diwali, Bengaluru International Film Festival, Eid, and Bheemana Amavasya.

Mysore in Karnataka is well-known throughout the nation for its silk weaving industry. In Mysore, silk weaving has been practised for centuries as a traditional industry. This silk is reputed to be made from silkworm cocoons made from mulberry leaves and is of the highest calibre. Because of its colour and regal lustre, it is well-liked.

 Karnataka, which is well known for its rich cultural legacy and architectural wonders, captures the timeless beauty in its old temples. In Karnataka, some of the well-known temples include:

    Badami Cave temple in Bagalkot including Banashankari Amma Temple, Vitthala and Sri Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Durga Temple in Aihole, Keshava Temple of Somnathpur, Murudeshwar Shiva Temple in Bhatkal, Kotilingeshwara Temple in Kolar in Hampi, Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple, Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu Mallikarjuna Temple in Pattadakal are the iconic temples with stunning architecture that none should miss on their visit to Karnataka.

 

Bisi bele bath, Jolada rotti, Ragi rotti, Saaru, Idli/vada Sambar, Vangi Bath, Benne dosa, and Ragi mudde are some examples of classic cuisine in Karnataka. In South Karnataka, dishes like Maddur Vade, Mysore Masala Dosa, and Plain and Rave Idli are often consumed. Some of the well-known desserts include Mysore Pak, Holige, Dharwad Pedha, Chiroti, and Sajjige. Meals are served on plantain or mutuka leaves that have been stapled together to form a large circular dish in South Karnataka or the Old Mysuru district. Rice and curd served with pickles makes up the meal's concluding course. Sometimes, it is offered with buttermilk to be consumed later. The Kodagu (Coorg) region is known for its spicy meat dishes including Pandi, Kadumbutt, and Paputt.

Karnataka is a sizable state that is rich in natural beauty, amazing architecture, fascinating history, and adventure. The best of Karnataka may be explored in 7 to 10 days. However, it depends on how you want to travel and how many locations you want to see.


 

Ashtanga yoga is best learned and practised in the historic city of Mysore, which is renowned for being the origin of the style. The founder of contemporary yoga, Krishnamacharya, was born and raised in Mysore. He taught in the palace there until 1950, when India's independence forced the closure of his shala. Mysore gained notoriety as a yoga destination thanks to Sri Krishnamacharya. Mysore has also been referred to as the "City of Yoga."



 

The biodiversity in the state of Karnataka is abundant. Its eight wildlife sanctuaries and five national parks can thrill wildlife aficionados. The sanctuaries provide beautiful views, lakes, and waterfalls for a wonderful exploration tour in the woodlands. Along with 300 or more different kinds of birds, reptiles, and butterflies, some of the animals that can be seen here include Bengal Tigers, Black Panthers, Lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, and Malabar Giant Squirrels. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, Bannerghatta National Park, Peacock Sanctuary, etc. are a few of the well-known ones.


 

 Karnataka offers a variety of activities, making the trip unforgettable. It has calm beaches, spotless hill towns, national parks, and historic temples. Top things to do in Karnataka include:
-    White River Rafting at Dandeli
-    Scuba Diving in Gokarna
-    Jeep Safari in Bandipur National Park
-    Tea and Coffee Plantation Tour in Chikmagalur
-    Dasara Celebration in Mysuru
-    Hike in Coorg
-    Witness Maha Abjishek in Shravanabelagola
-    Indulge in Yoga Practice in Mysuru
-    Parasailing in Bangalore, etc.

The best time to visit Karnataka is between October and March, when the weather is generally good after the rainy season. The months of December and January experience a brief winter season with sunny days and mildly chilly evenings. In Karnataka, this is the most popular season of the year to visit beaches, waterfalls, hill stations, and temples.

Tour Itineraries