Whenever tourism is talked about, the South Indian state Karnataka is very much liked. Karnataka is the fifth most popular state of India in terms of tourism. Karnataka is a bouquet of attractions in India. The state is full of rich cultural heritage. Of the 3,600 centrally protected historical monuments of India, 507 are located in Karnataka. Karnataka is full of natural attractions. There are 5 national parks and more than 25 wildlife sanctuaries here. From mesmerizing views, cultural heritage, and serene beaches to scrumptious food, you will find everything in this beautiful state. If you are also planning to visit Karnataka, then let us tell you about some of the major places to visit here, where you must visit.
Bengaluru
Bangalore, a colorful city associated with culture and people, is counted among the popular tourist destinations in Karnataka. Bangalore is also known for its pleasant climate, attractive parks, and beautiful lakes located here. The lush green area around Bangalore is dotted with waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and rivers. Due to the presence of lush green gardens, it has gained the reputation of being the 'Garden City of India'. Cubbon Park, Ulsoor Lake, Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park, Bagle Rock Park and Lumbini Gardens are the major attractions here.
Coorg
It is one of the popular tourist destinations in Karnataka. This place is like heaven for nature lovers. Seeing the beautiful green hills here and the rivers flowing here gives peace to the heart. Coorg, famous for coffee, is also called the 'Scotland of India'. Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, and Honnamana Ker Lake are some of the places worth seeing in Coorg.
Gokarna
Gokarna is a town located in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. In this city surrounded by ancient temples, you can see many thousands of years old temples. The city is about 59 km from Karwar, 483 km from Bengaluru, and 238 km from Mangalore. Furthermore, the rustic outlook of the city has attracted the attention of a lot of travelers and foreigners. There are many beaches, pilgrimage sites, and waterfalls which are tourist attractions. The city is situated around the Aghnashini River, which is considered a sacred site for devotees. Apart from the beaches, there is the Mahabaleshwar Temple which attracts many devotees and saints.
Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills, located in Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka, is counted among the most beautiful places in India. The greenery and beautiful views here fascinate the mind. Many ancient and attractive temples are located here. Apart from this, Nandi Fort situated on the mountains is also a place worth seeing here. This is an ancient fort, which was built by Tipu Sultan.
Udupi
Located about 60 km from Mangalore, Udupi is a wonderful vacation spot in Karnataka. A unique thing about this city is that it is surrounded by the Western Ghats on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other. After Bangalore and Mangalore, Udupi is the most important city in Karnataka. The intricately carved temples witness crowds of devotees and history lovers throughout the year. Udupi has a rich cultural heritage with a history dating back over 700 years. Other popular places to visit here are St. Mary's Island, Brahmavar, Barkur, Malpe Beach, Kudlu Falls, and Ananteshwar Temple.
Mysore
Mysore is a beautiful city. Here you can enjoy seeing the royal heritage. Mysore is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. This place is famous for its magnificent architecture and history. After the Taj Mahal of Agra, the Mysore Palace of Mysore is considered to be the most beautiful architecture. If you are fond of knowing history, then you should plan a trip here.
Mangaluru
Located 250 km west of Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka state, the coastal city of Mangaluru is one of the major tourist attractions in South India throughout the year. Although Mangaluru is known for its beaches, islands, temples, and sunrise and sunset points, if you are looking for a coastal city in Karnataka, then Mangaluru is the best option for you. When you come to visit Mangaluru, then definitely eat the delicious seafood here. Anirabhavi Beach, Panambur Beach, Someshwara Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangaladevi Temple, and Kadri Manjunatha Temple are the major attractions here.
Hampi
The city of Hampi is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the ruins of the medieval Hindu empire of Vijayanagara. Another big reason to visit Hampi is that the peace you get here will take you to another world. It calms and relaxes you, providing a break from the stresses of everyday life.
Murudeshwar
Murudeshwar is a holy city dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in the southern state of Karnataka. The world's second-tallest statue of Lord Shiva is present in this city. Murudeshwar is easily accessible by bus, train, and air. The nearest airport is Mangalore Airport, 133 km from the city. You can fully enjoy the sunset on the beach of Murudeshwar. Arabian Sea beaches like Aligadda Beach and Murudeshwar Beach attract tourists immensely. Also, be sure to see the majestic statue of Lord Shiva which is situated at a height of 123 feet.
Bandipur
Bandipur is a national reserve in Karnataka. Wild animals and birds are protected in this reserve. A few kilometers away from the capital Bangalore, this reserve is one of the popular tourist destinations where you can go for a weekend holiday. This place is surrounded by a peaceful environment and is eco-friendly. Here you can see lush greenery, elephants, and other birds and animals. The reserve also has an animal care center that looks after their health and reproductive problems. Injured animals are treated in this center. You can go on bird-watching tours and take wildlife safaris in this reserve.
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