Image Source: Apadegal
Karnataka, located in the heart of South India, is a state where heritage meets innovation. From the ruins of Hampi and Badami, to the royal palaces of Mysuru, the coffee plantations of Coorg, and the tech capital Bengaluru, Karnataka offers a richly layered travel experience. With coastlines, forests, hill stations, and ancient architecture, it’s a destination that speaks to nature lovers, history buffs, pilgrims, and urban explorers alike.
Geography of Karnataka
Karnataka, located in southern India, exhibits striking geographical diversity, spanning from the coastal belts of the Arabian Sea to the rugged terrains of the Deccan Plateau. The Karavali Coast or Coastal Karnataka—which includes regions such as Mangaluru, Udupi, Karwar, and Honnavar—features long stretches of beaches, estuaries, and mangrove ecosystems. This belt is characterized by a humid tropical monsoon climate and supports industries like fisheries, coconut cultivation, and cashew processing.
Moving eastward, the Malnad region, part of the Western Ghats (a UNESCO World Heritage site), presents a contrasting landscape of evergreen forests, coffee estates, and mist-covered hills. Towns like Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, Agumbe, and Madikeri (Coorg) are known for their high rainfall, scenic beauty, and rich biodiversity, including native species like the lion-tailed macaque and Malabar civet. This region also forms the origin point for major rivers such as the Tunga, Bhadra, and Sharavathi.
Further north, the landscape flattens into the Bayalu Seeme or semi-arid plateau of Northern Karnataka, comprising cities like Hubballi, Dharwad, Bagalkot, and the historical ruins of Hampi. This region, part of the Deccan Plateau, features granite hills, dry deciduous forests, and black cotton soil suited for millets, pulses, and cotton cultivation. Due to low rainfall, much of this area depends on irrigation from rivers like the Krishna, Bhima, and Malaprabha.
In the southern part of Karnataka lies the Cauvery River Basin, one of the most fertile zones, supporting dense agricultural activities in districts like Mandya, Mysuru, and Bengaluru Rural. This region is crucial for rice, sugarcane, and vegetable farming, and is interspersed with tanks, lakes, and canals fed by the Cauvery and Kabini rivers.
Overall, Karnataka’s topography transitions from coastal lowlands and rainforest hills to dry interior plains, making it one of India’s most ecologically and agriculturally significant states. The state’s climatic zones range from tropical wet monsoon in the Western Ghats, moderate subtropical in the southern plateaus, to semi-arid in North Karnataka—influencing not only the environment but also the regional cultures, cuisines, and economies.
History
The history of Karnataka is a grand narrative shaped by ancient dynasties, medieval empires, and modern transformation. The region, once part of the Mauryan Empire, began rising to prominence with the Badami Chalukyas (6th–8th centuries CE), who established their capital at Badami in present-day Bagalkot district. They were great patrons of temple architecture, as seen in the rock-cut shrines of Pattadakal and Aihole, which are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites and considered early experiments in Dravidian and Nagara styles.
Following the Chalukyas, the Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta and later the Western Chalukyas of Kalyani continued to shape Karnataka’s medieval history, leaving behind rich architectural legacies in places like Lakkundi and Dambal. The Hoysala dynasty (11th–14th centuries), centered around Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura, brought forth an era of artistic brilliance. Their temples are renowned for intricate carvings and star-shaped platforms, epitomizing Karnataka’s temple architecture.
The rise of the Vijayanagara Empire (14th–16th centuries), with its capital at Hampi in Bellary district, marked a golden age. Hampi became a vibrant center of trade, religion, art, and warfare, rivaling any medieval city in size and wealth. The empire stood as a stronghold against Islamic invasions from the north and upheld Hindu culture during a critical phase in South Indian history.
After the decline of Vijayanagara, regional powers like the Keladi Nayakas, Nayakas of Chitradurga, and most notably, the Wodeyars of Mysore, took center stage. Under Tipu Sultan, Mysore emerged as a formidable resistance against British expansion. Tipu’s innovations in rocketry, trade diplomacy, and administration were ahead of their time, though he eventually fell to British forces in 1799. The Wodeyars, who ruled Mysore as a princely state under British suzerainty, are remembered for their patronage of education, urban planning, and public works, particularly in Mysuru, which became a model city of modern India.
Post-independence, the princely state of Mysore merged with the Indian Union, and in 1956, with the States Reorganization Act, modern Karnataka was formed by integrating Kannada-speaking regions from Bombay, Hyderabad, and Madras presidencies. Bengaluru (Bangalore), already emerging as a defense and research hub, rapidly evolved into India’s Silicon Valley during the 1990s IT boom, positioning Karnataka at the forefront of the technological revolution in India.
Today, Karnataka’s historical layers—from the ruins of Hampi to the royal legacy of Mysore Palace, and from ancient Jain basadis to colonial-era buildings in Bengaluru—tell a compelling story of cultural depth, resilience, and innovation that continues to define the state.
Culture of Karnataka
The culture of Karnataka is a vibrant fusion of ancient traditions, Dravidian heritage, tribal diversity, and urban modernity. At its core lies the Kannada language, which binds the state together across its varied regions—from the Malenadu hills to the Bayaluseeme plains and the Karavali coast. The state is a proud custodian of Kannada literature, which has produced eight Jnanpith Award winners, the highest for any Indian language, with stalwarts like Kuvempu, U. R. Ananthamurthy, and Masti Venkatesha Iyengar shaping its intellectual landscape.
Karnataka is steeped in Dravidian architectural traditions, most vividly seen in the Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura, which reflect a blend of Vaishnavite and Shaivite motifs, intricate stonework, and star-shaped temple plans. In contrast, the Vijayanagara style at Hampi showcases massive gopurams, pillared halls, and an emphasis on grandeur, while the Islamic architecture of Bijapur—like the Gol Gumbaz—represents Deccan Sultanate influence.
Performing arts are a central part of Karnataka’s cultural identity. The coastal districts of Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Uttara Kannada are known for Yakshagana, a unique blend of theatre, dance, and music performed through the night during temple festivals. The state also boasts rich traditions of Carnatic classical music, especially in the Mysuru region, with legendary composers like Purandara Dasa and Kanakadasa, who are revered as the founding figures of South Indian music. Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi dance forms also thrive, alongside regional styles like Dollu Kunitha (drum dance), Veeragase, and Kamsale, deeply rooted in folk and devotional traditions.
Karnataka is also home to a mosaic of tribal cultures, including the Soliga, Kuruba, Jenu Kuruba, and Siddis, each contributing unique rituals, attire, and ecological knowledge. Their cultural expressions can be seen in festivals, crafts, and oral traditions, particularly in regions like B.R. Hills, Kodagu, and Yellapur.
Festivals play a crucial role in cultural life. The grand Mysuru Dasara is a ten-day celebration blending royal pageantry, classical music, processions, and illuminated palaces. Other popular festivals include Ugadi (Kannada New Year), Karaga in Bengaluru (a folk-religious procession), Kambala (buffalo race in the coast), and Hampi Utsav, celebrating heritage and performance arts in the ruins of Vijayanagara.
In contemporary cities like Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Hubballi, modern culture coexists with tradition. Bengaluru, in particular, is a cosmopolitan hub known for its startup ecosystem, pub culture, English theatre, rock music, and art galleries, attracting youth and talent from across the country. Meanwhile, local cuisine—featuring Bisi Bele Bath, Ragi Mudde, Mysore Pak, and Coorgi pork curry—adds a flavorful dimension to daily life and celebrations alike.
Fairs and Festivals of Karnataka
Karnataka’s cultural vibrancy is reflected in its diverse and colorful festivals. These events blend royal heritage, rural traditions, religious fervor, and folk performances, offering travelers a deep dive into the state’s living traditions. From palace-lit parades in Mysuru to buffalo races in coastal villages, Karnataka’s festive calendar is an immersive experience.
Mysuru Dasara – A Royal Spectacle
Mysuru Dasara, celebrated during Navaratri, is Karnataka’s most iconic festival. Held in the heritage city of Mysuru, it spans ten days and culminates in a grand Vijayadashami procession featuring the golden howdah (ambari) carrying Goddess Chamundeshwari on a decorated elephant. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with over 100,000 bulbs, creating a breathtaking sight. Cultural programs, wrestling competitions, folk dances, and crafts exhibitions take place across the city, making it a magnet for both domestic and international tourists.
Hampi Utsav – Celebration Amidst Ruins
Held in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, the Hampi Utsav is a cultural extravaganza that brings history to life. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Vijayanagara ruins, this three-day festival includes classical music and dance, puppet shows, processions on decorated chariots, and light-and-sound shows. It honors the legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire and celebrates Karnataka’s classical and folk art forms in their historical setting.
Karaga Festival – A Symbol of Communal Harmony
Unique to Bengaluru, the Karaga Festival is a centuries-old tradition of the Tigala community, dedicated to Draupadi from the Mahabharata. Held at the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple, it involves a night-time procession where a priest, dressed as a woman, carries a sacred floral pyramid (Karaga) on his head. The festival passes through the city’s main markets and is notable for the participation of Muslim community leaders, showcasing Bengaluru’s interfaith harmony.
Kambala – Coastal Buffalo Races
Kambala is an adrenaline-filled buffalo racing festival held in the tulunadu region of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. Conducted on water-filled paddy fields (slushy tracks), the event honors agricultural traditions and celebrates the bond between farmers and their livestock. Races feature pairs of buffaloes led by barefoot jockeys and attract huge crowds. Kambala is deeply rooted in the Tuluva culture and offers a glimpse into coastal Karnataka’s rural life.
Vairamudi Festival – Melukote’s Sacred Procession
Celebrated in Melukote in the Mandya district, the Vairamudi Utsav is a religious procession where the idol of Cheluvanarayana Swamy is adorned with a priceless diamond-studded crown (Vairamudi). The crown is brought under strict security from the royal treasury of Mysuru and placed on the deity only after sunset. The event draws thousands of pilgrims and is marked by devotional singing, pious rituals, and an atmosphere of deep reverence.
Ugadi and Sankranti – Festivals of Renewal
Ugadi, the Kannada New Year, marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is celebrated with rituals, feasting, and the preparation of bevu-bella (a mixture of neem and jaggery symbolizing the bittersweet nature of life). Homes are decorated with rangoli and mango leaves, and new ventures are begun on this auspicious day. Sankranti, the harvest festival in January, is celebrated across rural Karnataka with kite flying, pola (cattle worship), and ellubella sharing, especially in regions like North Karnataka and Coorg.
Popular Dishes of Karnataka
Karnataka’s culinary heritage is as diverse as its geography, ranging from the spiced flavors of the Malnad hills to the coastal seafood of Mangaluru and the millet-based staples of North Karnataka. Influenced by Dravidian roots, royal kitchens, tribal food customs, and agrarian lifestyles, Karnataka’s food is both hearty and full of local flavor. Here’s a taste of the state’s most beloved dishes:
Bisi Bele Bath – Spiced Comfort in a Bowl
A signature dish of Bengaluru and Mysuru households, Bisi Bele Bath translates to “hot lentil rice.” This wholesome meal combines toor dal (pigeon pea), rice, vegetables, and a special spice blend known as Bisi Bele Bath powder. Garnished with ghee and fried cashews, it’s served hot with boondi, papad, or raita. Found in every Darshini (local eatery) across Karnataka, it’s a staple in Kannada Brahmin cuisine and a beloved comfort food across the state.
Mysore Masala Dosa – Crispy and Spicy Delight
Originating from Mysuru, the Mysore Masala Dosa is a beloved South Indian breakfast known for its distinctive red chutney smeared inside a golden, crispy dosa. The filling consists of a mildly spiced potato bhaji, and it’s often paired with coconut chutney and sambar. Unlike the regular masala dosa, the Mysore variant packs a tangy punch and is popular at local joints like MTR, Vidyaranya Bhavan, and CTR in Bengaluru.
Ragi Mudde with Sambar – A North Karnataka Staple
Ragi Mudde (finger millet balls) is a traditional dish from rural Karnataka, especially Mandya, Hassan, and Ballari regions. Made from ragi flour and water, it’s shaped into large dumplings and typically eaten by hand, dipped into Bassaru (spiced lentil broth) or soppina sambar (greens-based curry). Packed with calcium and fiber, Ragi Mudde is a nutritional powerhouse and a staple in farming communities. It’s deeply rooted in Kannada food culture, representing sattvic and rustic eating habits.
Coorgi Pandi Curry – Pork from the Hills
This spicy, dark-hued pork curry is a culinary gem from Kodagu (Coorg), known for its unique blend of Coorg vinegar (kachampuli), pepper, and roasted spices. Often served with akki rotti (rice flatbread) or kadambuttu (rice balls), Pandi Curry is a festive favorite during Kodava celebrations and gatherings. It’s a fine example of Kodava cuisine, which blends tribal traditions with rich flavors from the Western Ghats.
Mangalorean Fish Curry – Coastal Coconut Flavors
From the Konkan coast of Dakshina Kannada, this curry features seawater or river fish simmered in a gravy made of grated coconut, red chilies, tamarind, and mustard seeds. Served with boiled rice or neer dosa, the Mangalorean Fish Curry showcases the Tuluva and Konkani culinary heritage. Common fish used include seer (anja), mackerel (bangude), and pomfret (white fish). It’s a coastal delicacy found in Udupi hotels and traditional Tulu households.
Mysore Pak – Ghee-Soaked Royal Sweet
Created in the royal kitchens of the Wodeyars of Mysore, Mysore Pak is a rich, dense sweet made from gram flour (besan), clarified butter (ghee), and sugar. Famous sweet shops like Guru Sweets in Mysuru still serve this iconic melt-in-the-mouth dessert. With its golden crust and soft interior, it is a must-buy souvenir and a staple at festive occasions across Karnataka.
Top Places to Visit in Karnataka
From ancient temple towns to wildlife sanctuaries, and from hill retreats to urban tech hubs, Karnataka is a richly diverse destination. Its blend of UNESCO heritage sites, natural beauty, royal history, and modern cityscapes offers something for every traveler.
Hampi – Land of Ruins and Legends
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi was the glorious capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Located in the Ballari district, it features an extraordinary landscape of granite boulders, temple complexes, and ancient market streets. Must-visits include the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple with the iconic stone chariot, and Matanga Hill for sunset views. Hampi is also popular among backpackers and history buffs who explore its mythology-linked ruins on foot or by bicycle.
Mysuru – City of Palaces and Royal Grandeur
Known as the Cultural Capital of Karnataka, Mysuru is famed for its Mysore Palace, chamundi hills, and the ten-day Dasara Festival. The city blends colonial charm, traditional silk sarees, and aromatic Mysore Sandalwood. Visitors enjoy strolls in Brindavan Gardens, spiritual visits to Chamundeshwari Temple, and shopping for Mysore Pak and rosewood handicrafts.
Coorg (Kodagu) – Scotland of India
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Coorg is a tranquil hill station known for its coffee plantations, rolling hills, and misty forests. Highlights include Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Talacauvery, and Dubare Elephant Camp. Coorg is also the homeland of the Kodava people, whose cuisine, festivals, and warrior traditions offer a unique cultural flavor.
Chikmagalur – The Birthplace of Indian Coffee
Another gem of the Malnad region, Chikmagalur is perfect for nature lovers and trekkers. Surrounded by lush coffee estates, it offers serene getaways like Mullayanagiri Peak (Karnataka’s highest), Kemmangundi, and Hebbe Falls. Homestays amid plantations provide authentic experiences of Malnad hospitality.
Bengaluru – Garden City and Silicon Valley of India
Karnataka’s capital, Bengaluru (Bangalore), is a modern metropolis that fuses tech innovation with green spaces. Famous for its startup ecosystem, craft breweries, and cosmopolitan vibe, it’s also home to heritage landmarks like Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Local markets like Commercial Street and nightlife in Indiranagar attract both tourists and locals.
Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal – Cradle of Temple Architecture
These towns in Bagalkot district are an architectural treasure trove. Badami’s rock-cut caves, Aihole’s Chalukya temples, and Pattadakal’s UNESCO-listed monuments showcase early Indian temple design. These sites reveal the evolution of Dravidian and Nagara styles and are considered the cradle of South Indian temple architecture.
Gokarna – Spiritual Retreat and Beach Bliss
A coastal town with a relaxed vibe, Gokarna combines pilgrimage significance with laid-back beaches. The Mahabaleshwar Temple draws Hindu devotees, while backpackers and beach lovers head to Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Paradise Beach. It’s often seen as a quieter alternative to Goa.
Bandipur National Park – Where the Wild Roam
Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Bandipur is one of India’s best-managed wildlife sanctuaries. Situated near Chamarajanagar, it’s known for tiger sightings, elephants, gaur, leopards, and over 200 bird species. Safari experiences are available through eco-resorts and forest department camps.
Off-Beat Places to Visit in Karnataka
Beyond the famous tourist circuits, Karnataka offers several hidden gems that reward explorers with unspoiled nature, cultural richness, and unique geographical features. These lesser-known destinations offer the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility, adventure, or spiritual retreat.
Agumbe – The Cherrapunji of the South
Tucked into the Western Ghats in Shivamogga district, Agumbe is renowned for receiving one of the highest rainfalls in South India. It is a biodiversity hotspot with dense rainforests, stunning sunset viewpoints, and is a haven for herpetologists studying the elusive King Cobra. Trekking trails lead to pristine waterfalls like Barkana Falls and Onake Abbi Falls, and the village is also known for the filming of Malgudi Days.
Yana – Land of Mysterious Rock Formations
Located in the Uttara Kannada district, Yana is famous for its two massive limestone karst monoliths, known as Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara. Surrounded by dense forests of the Sahyadri Hills, Yana is both a geological marvel and a pilgrimage site for devotees visiting the cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s also a great spot for trekking through the Western Ghats’ wilderness.
Sakleshpur – Coffee Country and Hidden Trails
A picturesque hill station in the Hassan district, Sakleshpur is set amid verdant coffee plantations, cardamom estates, and misty hills. Less commercialized than Coorg, it offers experiences like the Manjarabad Fort trek, Bisle Viewpoint, and stays in plantation homestays. Adventure seekers enjoy railway track treks through tunnels and bridges along the Green Route.
Dandeli – Adventure and Wildlife in the Western Ghats
Dandeli, located in the Uttara Kannada district, is a paradise for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. The Kali River offers thrilling white-water rafting, while the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary hosts black panthers, hornbills, and a rich array of flora and fauna. Activities include kayaking, zip-lining, cave exploration at Kavala Caves, and jungle safaris. It’s a top choice for eco-tourism in Karnataka.
Banavasi – Karnataka’s Oldest Town
Nestled along the banks of the Varada River in Uttara Kannada, Banavasi is one of Karnataka’s most ancient towns, once the capital of the Kadamba dynasty. It is home to the 9th-century Madhukeshwara Temple, a fine example of Kadamba architecture. The town still resonates with traditional Kannada culture, temple festivals, and classical music. A visit here feels like stepping back into early medieval Karnataka.
Sharavathi Valley – Wilderness and Waterfalls
The Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Shivamogga district, is a pristine expanse of tropical forests, rivers, and hidden trails. It’s the originating point of Jog Falls, India’s second-highest plunge waterfall. Ideal for birdwatching, trekking, and forest camping, the valley remains one of the most unexplored natural ecosystems in the Western Ghats. River Sharavathi nourishes the entire region, making it lush and ecologically vibrant.
Top Things to Do in Karnataka
Karnataka is a state where ancient history, natural beauty, spiritual depth, and urban energy converge. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, spiritual seeker, or foodie, Karnataka offers a diverse range of enriching experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.
Explore the Ruins of Hampi
Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, once the glorious capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Rent a bicycle and cruise past colossal granite boulders, intricate stone-carved temples, and ancient bazaar streets. Highlights include the Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Lotus Mahal, and the monolithic Narasimha statue. Sunset from Matanga Hill is a magical moment.
Trek in the Western Ghats
For adventure lovers, the Western Ghats of Karnataka offer some of India’s most scenic and rewarding trekking routes. Conquer Kumara Parvatha near Kukke Subramanya, scale Mullayanagiri – the highest peak in Karnataka near Chikmagalur, or hike through the misty forests of Tadiandamol in Coorg. These treks provide stunning views, Shola forests, waterfalls, and encounters with biodiversity.
Go on a Wildlife Safari
Embark on an early morning jeep safari through Karnataka’s premier wildlife reserves like Kabini, Bandipur National Park, and Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. Spot tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, and exotic birds amid lush deciduous forests. Kabini’s backwaters and Nagarhole’s elephant herds make it one of the best safari experiences in South India.
Temple Hopping for Architecture Lovers
Explore Karnataka’s rich temple heritage by visiting the Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebidu, known for their incredibly intricate stone carvings. Continue to Badami, Pattadakal, and Aihole, where early Chalukyan architecture tells the story of India’s temple evolution. Each site is an open-air museum of sculpture, history, and devotion.
Food Tour in Bengaluru and Mysuru
Savor the taste of authentic Karnataka cuisine in cities like Bengaluru and Mysuru. Try Bisi Bele Bath, Mysore Masala Dosa, Maddur Vada, and traditional filter coffee at legendary eateries like MTR, CTR, and Vidyarthi Bhavan. Local food streets, especially in VV Puram and Malleshwaram, offer delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties.
Beach and Yoga Retreats in Gokarna
Escape the commercial crowds at Gokarna, a coastal town blending spiritual ambiance with laid-back beach vibes. Visit Om Beach, Kudle Beach, or Half Moon Beach for sunbathing, yoga, and quiet reflection. Join a yoga retreat, surf a bit, or hike between the beaches for panoramic views and peace.
Shop for Local Treasures
Bring home a piece of Karnataka by shopping for Mysore sandalwood products, Channapatna lacquer toys, Ilkal and Mysore silk sarees, and Coorg-grown coffee. Local markets in Mysuru, Channapatna, Badami, and Madikeri are excellent for purchasing ethnic handicrafts, aromatic oils, and artisan goods that reflect Karnataka’s craftsmanship.
Souvenirs to Buy from Karnataka
Karnataka is a shopper’s delight when it comes to handcrafted heritage, textiles, and aromatic treasures. Whether you’re exploring the palaces of Mysuru or the markets of Bengaluru, here are some of the best keepsakes to carry home:
Sandalwood Carvings
Mysuru and Bengaluru are famous for intricately carved sandalwood figurines, incense holders, and decorative boxes. The soft fragrance and artistic finish make them premium souvenirs rooted in Karnataka’s heritage craftsmanship.
Mysore Silk Sarees
These luxurious sarees are woven with pure mulberry silk and rich gold zari (thread), especially from Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) outlets. They represent elegance and are treasured across India for weddings and festivals.
Channapatna Toys
This GI-tagged craft from the town of Channapatna (near Bengaluru) features brightly colored wooden toys, dolls, puzzles, and home décor. These eco-friendly items are made using natural dyes and traditional lacquer techniques.
Coffee and Spices from Coorg and Chikmagalur
Bring back the rich aroma of Karnataka’s coffee plantations. Coorg and Chikmagalur produce some of India’s finest Arabica and Robusta beans. Also, pick up pepper, cardamom, and vanilla from estate shops and local co-ops.
Bidriware from Bidar
A unique metal inlay craft made with a blackened alloy of zinc and copper, embellished with silver patterns. Items like vases, boxes, and jewelry from Bidar reflect centuries-old Persian influence and are perfect heritage souvenirs.
Handmade Soaps and Natural Perfumes
From sandalwood soaps to ayurvedic oils and attars, you’ll find aromatic and organic products in Mysuru, Coorg, and artisan stores across the state. They often use herbs like neem, tulsi, and rose for natural skincare.
Best Time to Visit Karnataka
October to March – Pleasant weather across the state
Monsoon (June to September) – Lush green hills and waterfalls
Summer (April–June) – Explore hill stations or coastal towns
How to Reach Karnataka
✈️ By Air:
Kempegowda International Airport (Bengaluru) is the main international hub
Domestic airports: Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi, Belagavi
🚆 By Train:
Major junctions: Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Mangaluru, Hospet
Connected to all parts of India via Southern Railway and South Western Railway
🚌 By Road:
Excellent highways and KSRTC buses connect Karnataka to neighboring states
Bengaluru is well-linked to Chennai, Hyderabad, Goa, and Mumbai by road