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Karnataka Tourism: Top 30 Tourist Places In Karnataka To Visit

Formerly called the State of Mysore, Karnataka is renowned for its gleaming software industry, beautiful tourist places & biotechnology. Karnataka Tourism holds a significant space in Tourism of India. Karnataka is home to various gorgeous beaches, national parks & reserves, scenic hill stations, and ancient monuments.

Karnataka is also famous for its coffee plantation and as a former abode to the famous Vijayanagara Empire. Karnataka also houses various UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Hampi, Pattadakal and more.

All these things make Karnataka the best tourist destination for all age groups. Below is the list of preeminent tourist places in Karnataka that make the vacation time unforgettable.

1. Agumbe

Agumbe

Surrounded by lush lowland rainforests and mountains of Western Ghats, Agumbe is –one of the pleasant tourist places in Karnataka. Also referred to as “The Cherrapunji of the South,” Agumbe is well known for its mesmerizing waterfalls and as India’s only Rainforest Research Station.

Most episodes of popular TV serial Malgudi Days were also shot at Agumbe. Agumbe is also acknowledged as Hasiru Honnu (Green Gold) as the city is home to various medicinal plants such as Myristica, Ficus, Garcinia, etc.

The city also houses a wildlife sanctuary and a historical temple. Apart from this, there are several other places to visit in Agumbe that will surely make your trip unforgettable.

How to reach

For airways the nearest airbase is at Mangalore; from where buses and taxis are easily available. The nearest railhead to Agumbe is Udupi. Regular private and state buses to Agumbe are available from nearby cities like Shimoga, Mangalore, and Udupi.

Major Tourist Attractions of Agumbe:

  • Barkana Falls
  • Onake Abbi Falls
  • Jogi Gundi Falls
  • Agumbe Sunset View Point
  • Agumbe Reserve Forest
  • Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

2. Aihole

Aihole

One of the significant parts of Karnataka tourism, Aihole is known for its rich and impressive history. Previously it served as the capital of the Chalukya Dynasty. The city holds great architectural, cultural and religious significance as it is home to more than 100 historical temples.

The monuments hold great importance for Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist devotees. Every year the city attracts thousands of visitors due to its spiritual and serene settings.

Apart from visiting religious places, there are various other things to do in Aihole such as sightseeing the natural beauty of the site or trying out the mouthwatering cuisines of the state.

How to reach

The city is well-connected with all major cities by all three modes of transportation. The nearest airport to Aihole is Belgaum and the nearest railhead is Bagalkot. The town is connected with other cities like Belgaum, Badami, and Bagalkot through a network of state and private buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Aihole:

  • Durga temple
  • Lad Khan Temple
  • Meguti Jain Temple
  • Ravana Phadi Cave Temples
  • Gauri Temple
  • Pushkarni
  • Suryanarayana Temple

3. Badami

Badami

Previously referred to as Vatapi, Badami is one of the best tourist places in Karnataka. Once it served as the royal capital of Badami Chalukyas Dynasty. The city is well-known for its compelling sandstone rock-cut cave temples.

The temples are devoted to Hindu and Jain deities. The town is acknowledged as one amongst the heritage cities of the country as there are loads of places to visit in Badami that hold religious and cultural importance.

With its striking landscapes and historic architecture, the city compels a considerable amount of visitors every year. Badami is also known as the gateway to other major historical sites such as Pattadakal and Aihole.

How to reach

The nearest airbase to Badami is Hubballi; from where buses are easily available for the city. The city houses a small railway station, which is connected to other major cities. Badami is well connected by buses to other towns like Bijapur, Hospet, and Bangalore.

Major Tourist Attractions of Badami:

  • Bhutanatha group of temples
  • Badami Cave Temples
  • Agasthya Lake
  • Banashankari Amma Temple
  • Badami Fort
  • Upper Shivalaya Temple
  • Archaeological Museum Badami

4. Belgaum

Belgaum

Also known as Bamboo Village, Belgaum is must-included place in Karnataka tourism places list. Belgaum is a picturesque and old-world destination that offers several natural wonders and historical as well as spiritual sites.

It is a perfect place to rejuvenate from the hectic everyday life. Belgaum is home to various waterfalls, a historic fort and a Jain temple along with various other temples.

There multiple things to do in Belgaum such as sightseeing, trekking, paragliding and river rafting, etc. Belgaum is also acknowledged as a significant educational hub as it houses various engineering and medical colleges.

How to reach

The nearest airbase to Belgaum is at Sambra, i.e. Belgaum Airport. The nearest railhead is Belagavi railway station, which is well connected with other major destinations. Belgaum is connected to various major cities of the state with buses and taxis.

Major Tourist Attractions of Belgaum:

  • Kamal Basti
  • Belgaum Fort
  • Kapileshwar Temple
  • Rajhans Gad Yellur Fort
  • Military Mahadev Temple
  • Belagavi Fort

5. Bellary

Bellary

Bellary (officially called Ballari) is a historical and one of the famous tourist places in Karnataka. Formerly, Bellary has been a division of Hyderabad and Madras State later it was shifted to Karnataka in 1956.

Bellary is home to the number of Neolithic archaeological sites that offer a wonderful experience to visitors. From archeological sites to forts, temples to parks; there is a surplus of places to visit in Bellary to satisfy the wanderlust of travelers.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Bellary is Bellary Airport, which is well connected to major cities. Bellary Junction railway station connects Bellary to various major cities of the state as well as country via regular trains. Different regular buses run from major cities of state to Bellary.

Major Tourist Attractions of Bellary:

  • Bellary Fort
  • Kumaraswamy Temple
  • Dr. Rajkumar Park
  • Kanaka Durgamma Temple
  • Ballari Mini Zoo
  • Yantrodharaka Temple
  • Gavisiddeshwara Temple

6. Bengaluru

Bengaluru

The capital city of Karnataka, Bangalore (officially known as Bengaluru) is an important part of India as well as Karnataka state tourism. Bangalore is often referred to as the IT Capital of India or Silicon Valley of India since the city is leading IT exporter of the nation.

Bangalore is home to numerous educational as well as research institutions. As the city enjoys a pleasant and moderate climate although the year one can visit the city at any time of the year.

The city is a perfect holiday destination for all age groups since there are several places to visit in Bangalore such as gardens, children parks, historic forts, and castles as well as Neolithic government buildings.

How to reach

Kempegowda International Airport serves as a major airbase for Bangalore, which is well-connected with all major cities of the country. The city houses three major Railway stations that connect the city via regular trains from other cities. Regular state and private buses connect the city with other cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Bengaluru:

  • Lalbagh Botanical Garden
  • Sri Chamarajendra Park
  • Bannerghatta Biological Park
  • Bangalore Palace
  • Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
  • Vidhana Soudha
  • ISKCON Temple Bangalore

7. Bijapur

Bijapur

Previously known as Vijayapura (means City of Victory), Bijapur is well-known for housing world’s biggest dome, i.e. Gol Gumbaj. Built by Kalyani Chalukyas, the city plays a major part in Karnataka tourism. The city houses various must-visit mosques, forts, and palaces that attract hundreds of visitors every year.

Apart from this, there are several other significant historical places to visit in Bijapur that show the magnificence of the past royal era. The city is a paradise for archeological enthusiasts due to its vast historical heritage.

How to reach

The nearest airbase to the city is Belgaum Airport, from where regular buses are available for Bijapur. The city houses its railway station, which is well-connected with various major cities of the state as well as the country. Bijapur is connected with other major cities of the state with regular state and private buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Bijapur:

  • Gol Gumbaz
  • Bara Kaman
  • Bijapur Fort
  • Jami Masjid, Bijapur Fort
  • Asar Mahal
  • Ibrahim Rauza Masjid
  • Ibrahim Roza

8. Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur (means The Land of the Younger Daughter) is one amongst the top tourist places in Karnataka. The city is also acknowledged as coffee land of Karnataka as it is the birthplace of Coffee in the country.

Chikmagalur is an astonishing destination as from coffee plantation to pilgrimage sites as well as from adventure sports destinations to wildlife destinations, and there are a number of places to visit in Chikmagalur.

Surrounded by verdant green hills and sparkling waterfalls, Chikmagalur is an exhilarating hill station. The pleasant environment and scenic landscapes of the city facilitate visitor to break out from the daily ruckus of life. The city is a paradise for both nature and adventure lovers.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Chikmagalur is Mangalore Airport, buses, and taxis to Chikmagalur are easily available from here. Kadur is the major railhead near Chikmagalur. Chikmagalur city is well-connected with other major cities via State-owned buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Chikmagalur:

  • Mullayanagiri
  • Kudremukh
  • Baba Budan Giri
  • Coffee Museum
  • Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Hebbe Falls
  • Kallathigiri Falls

9. Chitradurga

Chitradurga

Situated on the gorge of the Vedavathi River, Chitradurga is the picturesque and famous tourist places in Karnataka. Chitradurga got its name after an umbrella-shaped gigantic hill Chitrakaldurga (means picturesque castle. Chitradurga is home to bold rock hills, rock cave, stone fortresses, scenic valleys, and religious sites.

There are loads of things to do in Chitradurga for visitors such as sightseeing, climbing, and trekking, etc. Enclosed by beautiful hills and rivers Chitradurga is a perfect place for enjoying the true beauty of nature. Chitradurga is indeed a must-visit place during the trip of south India.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Chitradurga is Hubli Airport, buses to the city are easily available from here. Chitradurga railway station is the major railhead of the city. The regular train runs from major cities of state and country to Chitradurga. Chitradurga is well-connected to other major cities of the state via state-run buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Chitradurga:

  • Chitradurga Fort
  • Chandravalli
  • Jogimatti
  • Ankali Mutt
  • Obavvana Kindi
  • Ekanatheshwari Temple

10. Gokarna

Gokarna

Gokarna is a small pilgrimage town that holds great significance amongst Hindu devotees. Every year number of tourist visits here in search of blessedness and salvation as Gokarna is acknowledged as one amongst the seven significant Hindu pilgrimage sites.

The city is well-known for its serene palm clad beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and historical temples. From sometime the city is turning into an important part of Karnataka Tourism due to its untouched, pristine and rustic natural beauty.

Gokarna is popular amongst both national and international tourists as there are multitudes of things to do in Gokarna such as strolling around beachside or taking blessing from religious sites.

How to reach

The nearest airbase from Gokarna is Hubli Airport. Gokarna Road serves as the major railhead of the city, which is six km away from the main city. Regular buses connect Gokarna from other major cities of the state such as Mangalore, Bangalore, and Panaji.

Major Tourist Attractions of Gokarna:

  • Om Beach
  • Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna
  • Half Moon Beach
  • Paradise Beach
  • Gokarna Beach
  • Shiva Cave
  • Koti Teertha

11. Gulbarga

Gulbarga

Also called Kalaburagi, Gulbarga is one of the destinations from Karnataka all tourist places list. Gulbarga is a city in Karnataka. The city obtains its name from ‘Gul,’ means flower in Persian language and ‘berg’ means leaf. Formerly the city was part of Hyderabad State and it also served as a capital of Bahmani kings.

Gulbarga is popular as the Sufi city as it houses various religious sites that hold importance for Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim devotees. Apart from this, there are numerous other places to visit in Gulbarga such as forts, castles and many more.

How to reach

The major nearest airbase to Gulbarga is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad. The nearest railway station is Gulbarga Station; which is well-connected to other major cities via regular trains. Regular state-run and private buses connect Gulbarga from other major cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Gulbarga:

  • Gulbarga Fort
  • Sharana Basaveshwara
  • Buddha Vihar
  • Haft Gumbad
  • Char Gumbaz
  • Kornati Hanuman Temple
  • Government Zoo

12. Halebidu

Halebidu

Previously known as Dwarasamudra, Halebidu exhibits the great showcase of culture, architecture, and traces of pre-medieval era. Halebidu is one of the top tourist places in Karnataka as it compels visitors with its rich inheritance and spectacular art.

Halebid is bejeweled with a noticeably stunning compilation of temples, sculptures, and shrines. Halebidu is also acknowledged as the Gem of Indian architecture due to its exceptional Hoysala architecture at various temple complexes.

Halebidu is home to a number of Jain temples, archeological museum, and other significant monuments. Along with religious sites, there are ample places to visit in Halebidu.

How to reach

The nearest major airport from Halebidu is Mangalore International Airport, which is well connected from major cities of the country. The nearest railheads to Halebidu are Mangalore and Mysore. Buses and taxis are easily available for Halebidu from other towns of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Halebidu:

  • Hoysaleswara Temple
  • Halebidu Archaeological Site
  • Kedareshwar Temple
  • Kedareshwara Temple
  • Sri.Veera Narayana Temple
  • Dwarasamudra

13. Hampi

Hampi

Hampi often referred to as the Group of Monuments and is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Previously it served as the center of the Vijayanagara Empire. Ruins in Hampi are spread over a vast area of 4,100 hectares.

Hampi houses more than 1600 remains of a past era that includes shrines, temples, ancient market streets, forts, royal, and sacred monuments, Riverside features, bastions, mandapas, pillared halls and more.

The main destination within Hampi is Virupaksa Temple which is a significant Hindu worship site for pilgrims and tourists. The city is a traveler’s delight as there are endless places to visit in Hampi.

How to reach

The nearest airbase to Hampi is Belgaum Airport. Hospet Station is the nearest railhead to Hampi, which is well-connected to other cities by regular trains. Hampi is well-connected to various major cities of the state by roadways.

Major Tourist Attractions of Hampi:

  • Virupaksha Temple
  • Matanga Hill
  • Hemakuta Hill Temple
  • Vijaya Vittala Temple
  • Achyutaraya Temple
  • Kadalekalu Ganesha
  • Hazara Rama Temple

14. Hospet

Hospet

Hospet also called “Hosapete” is popularly known as the Gateway to World Heritage Site Hampi. Hospet city was built by one of the sovereigns of the Vijayanagara Empire, Krishna Deva Raya as the tribute of his mother.

Hosapete is one of the best tourist places in Karnataka, due to its closeness to Tungabhadra Dam and Hampi. Hosapete is also renowned for its steel plants and iron ore mining. Apart from Hampi, there are several other historical places to visit in Hospet.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Hospet is Hubli Airport. The major railhead to Hospet is Hospet Junction, which is well-connected from major cities of state and country as well. Various regular state buses and taxis connect Hospet from other major cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Hospet:

  • Tungabhadra Dam
  • Hazara Rama Temple
  • Tungabhadra Dam And Garden
  • Lotus Mahal Hampi
  • Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
  • Elephant Stables
  • Zanana Enclosure

15. Hubli

Hubli

Hubli also was known as Hubballi is one of the major tourist places in Karnataka. The city is known as one of the major trading and commercial centers in Karnataka. The city is also acknowledged as ‘Chota Mumbai’ for being commercially strong.

The city houses various must-visit destinations like temples, gardens and historical sculptures. The hill near the city offers panoramic views of sunset and the city that mesmerizes the visitors. The city is famous amongst all types of visitors whether adventure seekers or nature lover as there are numerous things to do in Hubli.

How to reach

The city houses its airport, which is well connected to major cities of the country. The city also houses four railheads and a junction which connects it to other cities. Regular private and state buses, as well as taxis, connect Hubli from other cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Hubli:

  • Nrupatunga Betta
  • Unkal Lake
  • Indira Gandhi Glass House
  • Chandramouleshwara Temple
  • The Country Club Water World
  • Nuggikeri

16. Kodagu

Kodagu

Also called Coorg, Kodagu is a beautiful hill station, which is a significant destination of Karnataka Tourism. The city is popular for its coffee production, orange groves, tea gardens, and outstanding culture.

Coorg is situated amid the verdant mountain range that makes it a perfect place for nature enthusiasts. Thousands of visitors visit the city due to its scenic misty landscapes, cascading waterfalls and bubbling streams.

It is an ideal destination for honeymoon couples and family vacation time as there are quite a lot of places to visit in Kodagu. Some hills around the city are ideal for trekking purposes.

How to reach

Mangalore Airport is the nearest airbase to Coorg, which connects with other major cities via regular flights. Mysore Junction is the nearest railhead to Kodagu. The city is well-connected with other major cities of the state via state-run buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Kodagu:

  • Abbey Falls Madkeri
  • Iruppu Waterfall
  • Raja’s Seat
  • Nisargadhama
  • Tadiandamol
  • Pushpagiri
  • Madikeri Fort

17. Kudremukh

Kudremukh

Located in the Chikmagalur district, Kudremukh is a popular hill station and a hill range that serves as a well-known destination of Karnataka tourism. The name Kuduremukha (means ‘horse-face’) as one side of mountain hill bears a resemblance to a horse’s face.

The place is well-known as a bio-diverse destination since it is home to green rolling grazing lands, extensive grasslands as well as dense forests. The Kudremukh Peak is a heaven for both nature and adventure sports lovers, with its rocky paths, picturesque views, scenic landscapes as well as flora and fauna diversity.

How to reach

One can reach the city easily by all means of transport. The nearest airport and railway station to Kudremukh is at Mangalore, from where buses and taxis are easily available for Kudremukh. Roadways well connect Kudremukh with nearby cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Kudremukh:

  • Lakya Dam
  • Kyatanamakki Hill Station
  • Kuduremukha Panorama
  • Kadambi Falls Bridge
  • Soormane Falls

18. Kushalanagar

Kushalanagar

Situated alongside the bank of the Kaveri River, Kushalanagar is one of the destinations of Karnataka tourism places list. The town is filled with various lodgings and hotels.

There are various things to do in Kushalnaghar like nearby sightseeing attractions, trying out local cuisines and taking pleasure in natural beauties of the destination. One of the principal settlements of Tibetan in the country is located nearby Kushalnagar.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Kushalanagar is Mysore Airport that is well-connected with major cities of the country. Nearest railhead to the city is at Krishnarajanagara. Visitors can reach Kushalanagar easily from major cities of the state via regular state-run and private buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Kushalanagar:

  • Nisargadhama
  • Chikli Dam
  • Coorg Adventure Park
  • Nisargadhama Reserve
  • Kushalnagar Deer Park
  • Harangi Backwaters

19. Madikeri

Madikeri

Formerly known as Mercara, Madikeri is a quaint and picturesque hill station. With its extensive coffee plantations, water cascades, scenic backdrops, historical monuments, misty hills, and verdant forests it serves as a perfect and relaxing holiday destination for nature lovers.

Being one of the mesmerizing tourist places in Karnataka, Madikeri attracts ample tourists who desire to spend time at serene ambiance. The most famous places to visit in Madikeri are Raja’s Seat and Madikeri Fort.

Apart from this, a grand mix of historical, natural as well as spiritual attractions can be witnessed at this wonderful hill station.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Madikeri is Mangalore International Airport. The nearest railway station to Madikeri is at Hassan. Regular state-run buses connect the town with other prominent cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Madikeri:

  • Raja’s Seat
  • Madikeri Fort
  • Raja’s Tomb
  • Sree Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
  • Linga Rajendra Tomb
  • ViewPoint Park
  • Government Museum

20. Mangalore

Mangalore

Located amid the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Mangalore is a port city of Karnataka state. Mangalore officially called Mangaluru is famous for its stunning beaches, palms trees as well as ancient temple architecture.

The city is one of the popular tourist places in Karnataka as it offers various attractions to its visitors such as extensive sandy beaches, beautifully architecture churches, mosques, and temples. The city is also a significant educational, commercial and healthcare center of the state.

The city of Mangalore is often referred to as the Gateway of Karnataka. Named after Goddess Mangaladevi, the port city is visited by ample tourists every as there are plenty of places to visit in Mangalore.

How to reach

Mangalore is the only city of the state that has all four modes of transport. The city has its airport, i.e. Mangalore International Airport. The city also houses three railway stations. The city is well-connected via roadways to all prominent cities of the country.

Major Tourist Attractions of Mangalore:

  • Tannirbhavi Beach
  • Mangaladevi Temple
  • Kadri Manjunath Temple
  • Panambur Beach
  • Sultan Battery
  • Pilikula Nisargadhama

21. Mudumalai

Mudumalai

Located at the foot of Nilgiri Hills, Mudumalai is one of the most visited tourist places in Karnataka. The city is famous amongst travelers as it houses National Park of Mudumalai as well as its proximity to Bandipur National Park. The national park area houses a wide range of flora and fauna species along with mesmerizing landscapes.

While visiting Mudumalai visitors can get a chance to witness and enjoy the beauty of wildlife closely via exciting jungle safari, in that way forming an essential part of the top things to do in Mudumalai. Madumalai is indeed a treat for nature and wildlife lovers.

How to reach

The nearest airbase and railway station to Mudumalai is at Coimbatore. Regular taxis and buses are easily available from Coimbatore to Mudumalai. Mudumalai is well connected with other prominent cities of the state via state-run buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Mudumalai:

  • Bandipur Tiger Reserve And National Park
  • Mudumalai National Park
  • Needle Rock View Point
  • Bandipur Tiger Safari
  • Moyar River
  • Theppakadu Elephant Camp
  • Seetha Devi Temple

22. Murdeshwar

Murdeshwar

Situated on the coast of Arabian Sea, Murdeshwar is one of the top places of Karnataka tourism. The town is named after one of the names of Lord Shiva. It is famous for housing one of the tallest Shiva statues in the world.

Other major attraction of the city is Murdeshwar Temple, which is an excellent example of the ancient architecture of the Vijayanagara Empire. The town is home to various other historical temples that hold great significance amongst Hindu pilgrims.

Apart from being a city of religious significance, Murdeshwar is also renowned for its serene sandy beaches. Various beaches of the city are famous amongst national and international visitors as they offer ample of things to do in Murdeshwar.

How to reach

Nearest airport to Murdeshwar is Mangalore International Airport. The nearest railhead to the city is Murdeshwar station that situates on the Konkan Railway. Regular private and state buses connect Murdeshwar to other major cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Murdeshwar:

  • Statue of Lord Shiva
  • Shri Murudeshwara Temple
  • Shri Murdeshwar Mahadev Beach
  • Raja Gopura
  • Bhukailasa Cave Museum Murdeshwar
  • Murdeshwar Island
  • The mini Maldives

23. Mysore

Mysore

Formerly known as Mysuru, Mysore is a historic settlement and one of the best tourist places in Karnataka. The city is referred to as Cultural Capital of Karnataka due to its rich royal heritage & culture and astonishing monuments and buildings.

Mysore once served as the capital of the Empire of Mysore. There are several remarkable heritage monuments in Mysore such as Mysore Palace and Jaganmohan Palace. Apart from this, there are various other significant tourist places to visit in Mysore that attract visitors of all age groups.

Mysore is also renowned for its outstanding quality of Mysore Silk, Mysore Painting and mouthwatering dishes like Mysore Masala Dosa and Mysore Pak. Mysore is also famous for the Dasara festival festivities.

How to reach

Mysore city houses its airport and a railway station that is well-connected to various prominent cities of the state as well as the country. Mysore is well connected with other cities of the state via private/state buses and taxis.

Major Tourist Attractions of Mysore:

  • Mysore Palace
  • Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
  • Sri Chamundiswari Temple
  • Brindavan Gardens
  • Karanji Lake
  • Railway Museum Mysore
  • Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

24. Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills is a historical hill fortress and a remarkable part of Karnataka tourism places list. Nandi Hills is adorned with numerous shrines and historic structures and is enclosed by compelling scenic views.

Nandi Hills gets its place in the past as being reminiscent of the sovereignty of Tipu Sultan. Nandi Hills is home to a number of historical temples that are must visit during the trip of Nandi Hills.

Nandi Hills is a paradise for adventure lovers as there are lots of things to do in Nandi Hills such as cycling amid the lush green landscapes or paragliding amid the rolling green valleys.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Nandi Hills is Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore. The nearest railhead from Nandi hills is Oddarahalli. Nandi Hills is connected with other cities via Nelamangala bus station.

Major Tourist Attractions of Nandi Hills:

  • Tipu’s Drop
  • Bhoga Nandishwara Temple
  • Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple
  • Skandagiri Hills
  • Nandi Temple
  • Nandi Hill Caves
  • Skandagiri

25. Pattadakal

Pattadakal

Pattadakal also was known as Paṭṭadakallu is a complex of ancient Hindu and Jain temples. It is one amongst UNESCO World Heritage Sites and also one of the popular tourist destinations in Karnataka.

According to UNESCO, the temples are a great blend of northern and southern India’s architecture. The Hindu shrines are mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva whereas the Jain temple is dedicated to a single Jina.

The structures at Pattadakal are a traditionally significant exemplar of society, religion, and culture. Pattadakal is must to add a place in Karnataka state tourism list as there are plenty of religious places to visit in Pattadakal.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Pattadakal is Belgaum that connects the city with other major cities. The nearest railhead to Pattadakal is Badami. Regular state/private bus services work to and from Pattadakal.

Major Tourist Attractions of Pattadakal:

  • Group of Monuments
  • Papanatha Temple
  • Virupaksha Temple
  • Mallikarjuna Temple
  • Jain Narayana Temple

26. Shimoga

Shimoga

Shimoga officially referred to as Shivamogga (means Face of Shiva) is popularly known as Gateway to the Western Ghats. The city is renowned for featuring vast paddy fields, coconut groves, stunning landscapes and eye-catching waterfalls all these possessions make Shimoga one of the hot tourist places in Karnataka.

Shimoga was previously ruled by several dynasties like Hoysals, Chalukyas and Gangas. Shimoga attracts visitors with a plethora of visiting places such as wildlife sanctuaries, palaces, temples and more. All these significant natural and religious beauties offer loads of things to do in Shimoga.

How to reach

The nearest airports to Shimoga are Mangaluru Airport and Kempegowda International Airport. Shimoga houses its railway station, which is well-connected other prominent cities of the state. Shimoga is well-connected to cities like Bangalore, Hubli, and Mangalore via roadways.

Major Tourist Attractions of Shimoga:

  • Sakrebyle Elephant Camp
  • Tiger & Lion Safari
  • Shiva Temple Shivamogga
  • Shivappa Nayaka Palace
  • Mattur Lake
  • Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum
  • Purdal Dam

27. Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola is a major heritage and historical site that is a must-included destination in Karnataka tourism list. Emperor Chandragupta Maurya is believed to have spent his last days here.

Shravanabelagola is well-known for the Bahubali statuette that is one of the world’s tallest monolithic stone statues. Two hills are known as Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri also feature in the city where most of the places to visit in Shravanabelagola are located.

The town holds great importance amongst Jain pilgrims as it houses various significant Jain temples. The town is also home to the various historical Basadis that depict great ancient architecture.

How to reach

Nearest airport to Shravanabelagola is Mysore Airport and the nearest railway station to the city is Mandagere. Shravanabelagola is well-connected to other prominent cities via regular bus services.

Major Tourist Attractions of Shravanabelagola:

  • Chandragiri Hill
  • Bhagawan Bahubali Statue
  • Shravanabelagola Temple
  • Vindhyagiri Hill
  • Jain Matt

28. Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna

Situated near the Mysore city, Srirangapatna holds cultural, religious and historical importance. The town is home to various heritage sights that can’t be missed during Karnataka Tourism.

The historical monuments located on the island city of Srirangapatna have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town has its glorious past as it is ruled by two great emperors Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan.

The town is well-known for an ancient temple, which is dedicated to one of the forms of Lord Vishnu, Sri Ranganathaswamy. A trip to Srirangapatna will exhibit the grandeur of past era as there are various historical places to visit in Srirangapatna.

How to Reach

The nearest major airport and railway station to Srirangapatna are at Mysore. Mysore connects Srirangapatna with other cities of the country via airway and trains. Srirangapatna is well-connected by other cities of the state through regular buses.

Major Tourist Attractions of Srirangapatna:

  • Ranganathaswamy Temple
  • Daria Daulat Bagh
  • Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
  • Tipu Sultan Fort
  • Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon
  • Balmuri Falls
  • Triveni Sangam

29. Udupi

Udupi

Situated amid the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Udupi is also one amongst the best tourist places in Karnataka. Also called as Lord Parashurama Kshetra, Udupi is named after the famous Udupi cuisine.

Udupi is home to numerous gorgeous and serene beaches which are very popular among national and international tourists. Udupi also features a various picturesque island that exhibits the spectacular beauty of the sunset.

Udupi is also well-known for its beautiful temples like Kanakanakhindhi Temple and Chandramoulishwar Temple, etc.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Udupi is Mangalore International Airport. Udupi has a railhead on the Konkan Railway. Udupi is well-connected to other prominent cities of the state and country through regular bus services.

Major Tourist Attractions of Udupi:

  • Udupi Sri Krishna Matha
  • St Mary’s Island
  • Anantheshwara
  • Sri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple
  • Shri Chandramouleeshwara Temple
  • Manipal Museum of Anatomy & Pathology
  • Manipal Lake

30. Wayanad

Wayanad

Located amid the mountain range of the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a greener destination of Kerala that lies near Karnataka state. Due to its clear, pristine beaches and compelling landscapes, it is most sought after destination during Karnataka Tourism.

Green plantations, forests, and wildlife surround the green hill station. Wayanad is well-known for its moderate climate, misty hills and green forests.

There are various places to visit in Wayanad like Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves and more. Adorned with captivating waterfalls, historical caves as well as relaxed resorts, Wayanad is renowned for its wildlife and spice plantations.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Wayanad is Calicut International Airport and the nearest railway station is Calicut Railway Station. From Calicut, regular buses and taxis are available for Wayanad. Regular private and state-run buses connect Wayanad from other major cities of the state.

Major Tourist Attractions of Wayanad:

  • Edakkal Caves
  • Soochipara Waterfalls
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Kuruvadweep
  • Pookode Lake
  • Thirunelli Temple
  • Banasura Hill

Conclusion

The above-stated glory of all the cities and towns of Karnataka state depicts the cultural, historical and environmental significance of Karnataka Tourism.

Karnataka is indeed the must-visit destination in the country due to its scenic beauty, pleasant ambiance and ancient architecture. So pack your bags to visit Karnataka on your next vacation to get beautiful memories for the lifetime.

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