If you are looking for things to do in Karnataka, the state has a lot to offer. A beautiful blend of history and modernity, Karnataka is a paradise with mesmerizing landscapes, historic structures, and a fast-growing industrial sector. From serene beaches in Gokarna, beautiful temples in Hampi, to adventurous and wildlife experiences in Chikmagalur, Karnataka has something for every traveller. Here are some of the best things to do in Karnataka.
Visit the Mysore Palace
Mysore, the City of Palaces, is renowned for its beautiful and intricate architecture. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Mysore Palace, also known as Mysuru Palace and Amba Vilas Palace. The present-day structure was built in the 14th century by the English architect Henry Irwin in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
The palace is lit up with 97,000 lights on Sundays and public holidays, a magnificent sight that attracts tourists from all over. It is also known for its light and sound show that tells the 400-year history of Mysore. The palace is decked up during the Dussehra festival that takes place in September or October, and it is one of the best times to visit the palace.
Other than the Mysore Palace, you can also explore Jaganmohan Palace and Lalitha Mahal Palace in the city.
Beach hopping in Gokarna
Gokarna in Karnataka welcomes you with serene beaches and ancient temples. Famous for its beach treks, the enchanting town will take you on a journey to connect with nature and enjoy scenic views by the shores.
The famous Om Beach, Paradise Beach, and the ‘C’ shaped Kudle Beach are perfect for spending a day in the sun – go banana boating on Om Beach, spot dolphins at Paradise Beach, and shop at the local flea markets. Don’t forget to try different dishes at the food shacks by the beach. Camping and beach yoga are also popular activities here.
Explore the wildlife
Karnataka is home to many wildlife reserves with diverse flora and fauna. The Nagarahole Tiger Reserve in Kodagu and Mysore is inhabited by a variety of animals, including tigers, sambar, leopards, sloth bears, and birds like kingfishers, crested serpent eagles, and sunbirds. It is named after the Nagarahole stream, which flows through the forest, literally meaning “serpent stream”.
Kali Tiger Reserve, originally known as Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, is home to 40 tigers and other wildlife like woodpeckers, kingfishers, leopards, etc. Experience a jungle safari and other activities like trekking, fishing, white water rafting, and crocodile sighting in the Kali river that flows through the reserve.
You can also enjoy a jeep safari through the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in Chikmagalur, which takes you through mesmerizing trails with waterfalls, lush hills, and valleys.
Bandipur Tiger Reserve is another beautiful place for animal and nature lovers. A part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this reserve is home to many endangered species like the Nilgiri langur and the lion-tailed macaque, as well as other animals like tigers, elephants, sloth bears, and spotted deer.
The Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is India’s and Asia’s first sloth bear sanctuary. Established in 1994, it houses 150 sloth bears, along with wild boars, jackals, and over 70 species of birds, including peafowl and painted spurfowl.
Visit the Temples
Beautiful temples and spiritual experiences can be found throughout Karnataka, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Visit the Virupaksha temple in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 7th century during the reign of the mighty Vijayanagara empire. The temple is decorated with intricate sculptures and stone work, and features gopurams (tall towers) that lead to the inner corridors. A highlight of the temple is the Car Festival, which takes place in March amid vibrant celebrations.
The Vijaya Vittala Temple is another magnificent monument in Hampi, renowned for its iconic stone chariot. The large courtyard has several small temples surrounding the stone chariot.
The Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna is a stunning piece of architecture, built with white granite in Dravidian style. It is famous for its 6 feet tall Shiva Linga, which is said to be 1500 years old. However, only the top of the Atmalinga is visible to the visitors. The entire Atmalinga can only be seen during the Ashta Bandana Kumbhabhishekam festival, which happens once every 40 years.
You can also visit other temples like Kudroli Gokarnath Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, ISKCON Temple, and more.
Explore Kemmangundi
The dreamy hill station of Kemmangundi in Chikmagalur is a biker’s paradise. Join a biking tour or hire a bike and ride through the serene landscapes. You can also trek up to Z Point and take in the magnificent views of the Western Ghats.
Kemmangundi is also home to many waterfalls, such as Kalahari Falls, Hebbe Falls, and Shanti Falls. Don’t forget to visit the Shiva Temple in Kemmangundi. Nestled amidst waterfalls and lush forest views, the temple offers a spiritual experience like no other.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
The Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru has the largest collection of tropical and subtropical plants in India. Established in the 18th century, it is known for its stunning glasshouse inspired by the London Crystal Palace, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
The Lalbagh Flower Show is held twice a year, on Republic Day (26th January) and Independence Day (15th August), and is one of the most popular events in Bangalore.
Caves of Badami
The Caves of Badami are a part of a group of monuments at Pattadakal, namely Aihole, Badami, and Pattadakal, which are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built from the 6th to 8th centuries AD by the Chalukya dynasty, the four caves comprise four red sandstone temples. Three temples have carvings of Hindu Gods Shiva and Vishnu, while the fourth temple is dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras.
The caves are open to tourists from 9.00 am and 5.30 pm. Wear comfortable shoes since you will have to walk a lot.
Jog Falls
Trek to the breathtaking Jog Falls, the second-highest plunge waterfall in India. The waterfall is broken into four segments – Raja, Roarer, Rocket, and Rani. They are named based on their characteristics, with Raja being the unbroken stream, Roarer being the violent one, Rocket flowing in different jets, and Rani being the quiet stream.
The trail can be slippery, especially in the monsoons, so wear sturdy, appropriate shoes.
Netrani Island
The abundance of pigeons on Netrani Island near Murudeshwar has earned it the name Pigeon Island. This heart-shaped island off Karnataka’s coast, with mesmerising blue waters, is a perfect spot to try water activities like scuba diving and snorkelling. There are opportunities for both beginner and expert scuba divers, where you can go for a single dive or take a course from the operators in Murudeshwar.
Gomateshwara Statue
Shravanabelagola in Karnataka is an important pilgrimage centre for Jains due to the Gomateshwara Temple, or Bahubali Temple. The Gomateshwara statue on Vindhyagiri Hill is one of the world’s tallest free-standing monolithic statues at 57 feet.
The statue was carved from a single block of granite in 981 AD by Chamundaraya, a Ganga warrior. It depicts Gomateshwara Bahubali in a meditative position, a respected figure in Digambara Jainism. The statue embodies Jain principles of non-violence, peace, and self-discipline.
The Mahamasthakaabhisheka is an auspicious occasion held every 12 years when the statue is bathed with saffron paste, milk, and water. The next Mahamasthakabhisheka will be held in 2030.
Coffee Plantations of Coorg
Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg offers enchanting views of misty hills and valleys, coffee plantations, and a pleasant climate. The charming hill station is primarily known for its production of coffee, which has been grown here for well over a hundred years.
Numerous coffee plantations like Tata Coffee Plantation, Avadale Coorg, Serene Woods, etc, offer guided tours that take you through the journey of how coffee came to India, how it is harvested and processed, all while surrounded by the lush greenery and rich aromas of the plantations. So don’t miss this beautiful experience, and certainly don’t leave without drinking a cup of coffee here!
Go shopping
There is so much to shop for when in Karnataka, with each city having something unique to offer.
Mysore is a shopper’s paradise. Head to the silk market to shop for exquisite silk sarees, sandalwood oil, soap, or some delicious Mysore Pak, a local dessert.
In Bengaluru, Brigade Road, Commercial Street, Malleswaram Market, and Gandhi Bazaar are perfect for shopping. You will find everything from branded showrooms to tuck shops, but be sure to brush up on your bargaining skills first! Book lovers, do visit Blossom’s Book House, one of the oldest and largest bookshops in Karnataka.
Chikmagalur is renowned for its homemade wine, coconut oil, and spices, while in Coorg, shop for coffee, tea, authentic spices, and natural honey.
Read more: Visit Karnataka
So, which place are you visiting first once you are in Karnataka? Let us know! At India Someday, we create personalized trips to India for you based on your requirements and interests. Contact us and we will plan the perfect trip to India for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Karnataka is famous for its incredible historical sites, particularly the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, which showcases the majestic ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. It’s also renowned for the Mysore Palace, and its IT hub, Bengaluru, often called the “Silicon Valley of India”.
Karnataka is known for many dishes. Mysore Pak, a sweet dish, is widely popular. Other well-known foods include Bisi Bele Bhat and the thin Neer Dosa, often served with coconut chutney.
Yes, Coorg is a famous hill station located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Often referred to as the “Scotland of India,” it is known for its misty landscapes, coffee plantations, and pleasant climate, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
About Rabhya Maini
Rabhya Maini is a writer at India Someday. Her passions are reading, writing, and exploring different parts of India. She loves to capture the beauty of India through photos and words.
helping you travel your way
Everything you need to know about India is here We have tried writing about everything you may need help with for your trip to India, If you need help in planning a trip to India Get in touch with us to to plan your trip of a life time.
