India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Karnataka is a treasure trove of history, nature, adventure, and culture. From ancient ruins to modern cities, waterfalls to wildlife sanctuaries—here’s a well-curated list of the Top 25 Places to Visit in Karnataka:
Top 25 Must-Visit Places in Karnataka
1. Bengaluru (Bangalore)
The cosmopolitan capital, also known as the "Silicon Valley of India."
Don’t Miss: Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace, UB City.
2. Mysuru (Mysore)
A royal city known for palaces, art, and the Dussehra festival.
Don’t Miss: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, Mysore Zoo.
3. Coorg (Kodagu)
A serene hill station with coffee estates, waterfalls, and forested hills.
Don’t Miss: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp, Coffee plantations.
4. Hampi
A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with mesmerizing ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Don’t Miss: Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Stone Chariot, Hampi Bazaar.
5. Chikmagalur
Perfect for coffee lovers and nature seekers.
Don’t Miss: Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls, Coffee plantations.
6. Gokarna
A quiet coastal town with scenic beaches and spiritual vibes.
Don’t Miss: Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Paradise Beach.
7. Badami
Famous for its rock-cut temples and caves.
Don’t Miss: Badami Cave Temples, Agastya Lake, Bhutanatha Temples.
8. Pattadakal
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient temple architecture.
Don’t Miss: Virupaksha Temple, Sangameshwara Temple.
9. Aihole
Often called the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture.”
Don’t Miss: Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple.
10. Jog Falls
One of the highest plunge waterfalls in India.
Don’t Miss: View from Watkins platform, trekking near the base.
11. Udupi
A temple town known for Krishna Temple and coastal cuisine.
Don’t Miss: Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, Malpe Beach, St. Mary’s Island.
12. Shravanabelagola
A Jain pilgrimage center known for the towering Bahubali statue.
Don’t Miss: 58-ft tall Gomateshwara Statue, Chandragiri Hill.
13. Belur & Halebidu
Famous for their exquisite Hoysala architecture.
Don’t Miss: Chennakesava Temple (Belur), Hoysaleswara Temple (Halebidu).
14. Kabini
A top wildlife destination in South India.
Don’t Miss: Jungle safaris, Kabini River, Nagarhole National Park.
15. Bandipur National Park
A premier tiger reserve and part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Don’t Miss: Jeep safaris, wildlife photography, Birdwatching.
16. Sakleshpur
A hill station in the Western Ghats with lush greenery and plantations.
Don’t Miss: Manjarabad Fort, Bisle View Point, railway treks.
17. Karwar
A peaceful coastal town, often less crowded than Gokarna or Goa.
Don’t Miss: Devbagh Beach, Karwar Beach, Warship Museum.
18. Nandi Hills
A popular weekend getaway from Bangalore, especially for sunrise views.
Don’t Miss: Tipu’s Drop, Nandi Fort, Paragliding.
19. Shivamogga (Shimoga)
Gateway to the Western Ghats with rivers, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Don’t Miss: Sakrebailu Elephant Camp, Jog Falls, Kodachadri.
20. Chitradurga
A historical town known for its massive hill fort.
Don’t Miss: Chitradurga Fort, Hidimbeshwara Temple, Tuppada Kola.
21. Dandeli
Adventure capital of Karnataka, great for river rafting and nature lovers.
Don’t Miss: Kali River rafting, Syntheri Rocks, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.
22. Hospet
Base town for visiting Hampi, with its own historical significance.
Don’t Miss: Tungabhadra Dam, temples, and old forts.
23. Agumbe
Called the “Cherrapunji of South India,” it’s famous for its sunsets and rainforest.
Don’t Miss: Sunset Viewpoint, Barkana Falls, Rainforest Research Station.
24. Tumkur
An emerging travel destination close to Bangalore.
Don’t Miss: Devarayanadurga, Shivagange Hill, Mandaragiri Jain Temple.
25. Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple (Nandi Base)
One of the oldest temples near Nandi Hills with stunning Dravidian architecture.
Don’t Miss: Temple carvings, calm vibes, photography.