Karnataka

Imperial ruins, forested highlands and a richly varied coast.

About Karnataka

Karnataka brings together world-class heritage, energetic cities, forested hills and a varied Arabian Sea coast. Bengaluru is the principal gateway, but the state’s travel identity extends far beyond the capital. Hampi’s boulder-strewn ruins, Pattadakal and Aihole’s temple architecture, and the palaces of Mysuru form outstanding cultural circuits. The Western Ghats support coffee country, wildlife reserves, waterfalls and trekking around Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru and Shivamogga. Coastal Karnataka adds beaches, temple towns and distinctive cuisine, while protected forests such as Nagarahole, Bandipur and Kali attract wildlife enthusiasts. Karnataka is large enough for several separate journeys; travellers get the best experience by choosing one or two regions rather than attempting the entire state at once.

State Quick Facts

BengaluruCapital
1,91,791 sq kmArea
Approx. 6.11 crore (Census 2011 basis)Population
Kannada, Tulu, Konkani, Urdu, EnglishLanguages
October to March; monsoon for Western Ghats landscapesBest Time
Hampi, Mysuru, coffee country, wildlife, temples, Bengaluru and coastal cuisineFamous For

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