Karnataka holds its charm in the intriguing mix of tourist attractions which makes it favourite among tourists across the globe. The archaic monuments, temples and forts reminds about the glorious past and rich history of the state. Karnataka invites you to explore its lush green landscape, rich heritage, culture, wildlife, beaches and a variety of tourist places located all over the state.

Bangalore
The state capital is the hub of Information Technology in India. At the same time it is called the ‘Garden City’ because of its manicured gardens. There are a number of tourist attractions in and around the city, namely, Bangalore Palace and Fort, Lal Bagh, Cubbon Park, Vidhana Soudha and many religious sites.

Mysore
Well known as the ‘City of Palaces’, Mysore is a true reflection of the cultural heritage and traditional splendor of India’s history. It is one of the most popular city among the tourists. The royal Dravidian style of architecture is prominent reflected in the old buildings and palaces around the city. Chamundi hills and the Chamundeshwari Temple are famous as a pilgrimage destinations. Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Mysore Zoo, Folk Lore Museum are also most visited tourist spots.

Sravanbelagola
It is considered to be the most famous religious as well as tourist spot in Karnataka. It houses Asia’s tallest monolithic statue measuring 17.38 metres high – the statue of Gommateshwara. It a prime Jain pilgrimage destination.

Srirangapatna
It is an egg-shaped island surrounded by river Kaveri and has a cultural and religious relevance since ages. Legends reveal that Lord Buddha visited and stayed near this island. Also, it was the capital of Tipu Sultan, the famed King of Mysore. Ranganathaswamy temple in Srirangapatna is very famous. Other tourist places in and around the town include: Gumbaz, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Sri Rangapatnam Fort.

Hampi
Once the mighty capital of the Vijayanagar Empire is today listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. Ruins of palaces, temples, forts and other ancient monuments makes the town of Hampi a perfect tourist spot as well as a religious place in Karnataka.

Halebid
Dwara Samudhra is an old lake in the town of Halebid. The Hoysaleshawara and Kedareshwara temples are the famous temples in the town that were built during Hoysala dynasty. The facades are filled with carvings of elephants, dancers and episodes from the epics. One must visit the archaeological museum in the Halebid temple complex.

Belur
At Belur, Chennakesava temple complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Kappe Chennigraya temple are a must visit. The architecture and the carvings of this temple also hold some historical significance. The carving of Darpana Sundari (beautiful lady with a mirror) is a must see.

Aihole
Once the capital of the Chalukya dynasty, Aihole is a village with some hundred temples around and is known as the cradle of Indian temple architecture. It is a place which hold historical significance and is therefore, a popular tourist spot in Karnataka. There are prominently two temple groups, namely, the Kontigudi group and the Galaganatha group of temples in Aihole. Among these, Lad Khan temple, Huchappayyagudi temple, Durga temple, Ravanaphadi temple and Suryanarayana temple are famous.

Chikmagalur
The picturesque destination has lofty peaks, racing rivers, sparkling streams and cascades. This one place has everything for everyone – adventure seekers, pilgrims, research enthusiasts. The popular ones are the waterfalls of Hebbe, Kalhatagiri, Manikyadhara, Sirimane and Shanti. The Muthodi and Bhadra forests are popular among tourists. Horanadu, Kalasa, Balehonnur and Sringeri are famous pilgrim destinations.

Bandipur
Nesting in the foothills of the Nilgiris, Bandipur National Park is home to tigers, elephants, gaurs, leopards, chital, sambar and a variety of birds. It is one of the best wildlife reserves in India. Tourists admire the beauty of this place as the climate here supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Waynad Sanctuary and the Mudumalai Sanctuary are nearby Bandipur and open for tourists. Gypsy rides are a must try.

Mangalore
Mangalore, the second largest cities in Karnataka is also among the famous tourist places in Karnataka. Mysore Palace is one of the most visited monuments in the city. Brindavan Gardens, Jagmohan Palace, Chamundi Hills, Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion, and Folk Lore Museum are among the famous tourist places in Karnataka. Besides these, Karnataka has a number of scenic beaches in Karwar, Marwanthe and Murudeshwar. The rich tradition of music is also a strong pull for music lovers around the world.