These prominent holiday destinations in South India happen to be one of the most significant forerunners of the IT sector revolution in the country. People of diverse religions, cultures, traditions, and ethics coincide together here. This sophisticated southern state is popular for its panoramic landscapes, cultural heritage, and traditional craftsmanship and is also a thriving hub of exciting water sports activities.

The state is blessed with more than 25 wildlife sanctuaries and a total of 5 national parks including Bandipur and Nagarhole National Park. Karnataka tourism is not limited to information technology, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and waterparks as there are many other things to celebrate here.

Karnataka COVID-19 Tourist Guide

It is important for every traveller to abide by the rules and regulations imposed by Karnataka Government. There are certain very strict guidelines that need to be followed by both travellers as well as locals. Maintaining a social distancing policy, wearing masks, and staying in quarantine in some cases are some of the most common regulations that one has to follow on their holiday in Karnataka.

Honeymoon in Karnataka

Karnataka is however not a very popular honeymoon destination but planning your honeymoon here won’t leave you disheartened as the city pampers you in every possible manner. There are numerous beautiful retreats or resorts of wooden tiles or thatched rooftops where one can enjoy a romantic dinner date with their life partner. Also, if a beach romance has always been your dream but you don’t want to visit Goa then there is no other place better than Karnataka. Browse our column of Karnataka honeymoon packages and enjoy binging on some of the most delicious delicacies of South India.

Best Time to Visit Karnataka

One must be wondering about what is the one thing that makes Karnataka tourism so popular among travellers, the best thing about planning a vacation in Karnataka is that you don’t need to wait for a particular season like this is a year-round destination.

What to Eat in Karnataka

Allow yourself to be pampered royally when you are exploring the wonders of Karnataka as you get to enjoy an amalgamation of flavors in the cuisine of Karnataka. Karnataka Cuisine is inspired by its surrounding states viz. Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, yet it doesn’t lose its own charm and holds its own flavor. Here is a detailed list of some of the must-try food items in Karnataka.

The Curries of Karnataka

Unlike other states, Karnataka pays attention to its scrumptious curries. For instance, Koli Curry has portions of tender chicken smoothly laced with spices like seeds of poppy, cumin, and mustard. The cinnamon added to the curry lingers in your mouth even after your stomach is full. The curry gets an unusual tangy flavor with the trimmings of tamarind and Jaggery. Those who are looking for a memorable Karnataka holiday shall make it a point to try out these lip-smacking curries.

The Scrumptious Dosa – If you are also a Dosa lover then you should definitely savor the flavors of Dosas as the state is nirvana for every Dosa lover. Seeds of cumin, fenugreek, and coriander are mixed well to prepare Sambar and this makes the recipe very popular among travellers.

The Mouth-Watering Desserts – Sweets and savories of Karnataka are nationwide popular for their incredible taste. Whether it is shredded coconut, Mushti Kadubu, strips of jaggery in Rave Halbai, or the concoction of Rava, the sweets of Karnataka end the meals in a very stylish manner. Do not forget to pack some of them for your family, friends, and loved ones.

Things to Do in Karnataka

Karnataka is recognized as a versatile state catering to the needs of every travel enthusiast. There is no dearth of activities to enjoy in this industrial state of South-West India as the state is flexible enough to include activities such as white water rafting and partying. There is nothing wrong in saying that the place is a true paradise for adventure lovers as activities like white water rafting, rock climbing, parasailing, cycling, and much more.

Scuba Diving in Netrani – One of the most loved activities in Karnataka is scuba diving on Netrani Island. Also called Pigeon Island, this happens to be an enchanting diving destination with curved rocky formations and a wild growth of trees that shelters several pigeons. This gorgeous island with coral reefs and crystal clear water is inevitably the best snorkeling site in Karnataka. The best thing about this diving site is that it is a perfect snorkeling place for both beginners as well as experienced.

There are several operators in Murudeshwar organizing single dives as well as scuba diving courses. Witnessing the closer view of swimming fish and seeing colorful corals will be an experience to cherish for a lifetime and a perfect adventure for everyone in the family.

Spiritual Trip to Temples – There are numerous temples established in this south-western state like Vittala Temple, Cave Temples, and many more. Karnataka is a destination that is never bored to visit temples. These fascinating temples in Karnataka are known for their unique architecture from the time of the Hoysala Empire and display timeless beauty along with a unique architectural style. Go to this lovely state and visit all these temples.

Amrutesvara Temple, Veera Narayana Temple, Siddeshwara Temple, Vitthala Temple, Murudeshwar Temple, Durga Temple, Vidyashankara Temple, and Badami Cave Temple are some of the most popular spiritual sites in the city that you get to explore with our customized Karnataka packages.

Fairs and Festivals in Karnataka

Karnataka is the land of parties and festivals. Numerous arts and culture festivals take place throughout the year, giving an insight into Karnataka’s tradition. From the impressive extravaganza of Dussehra in Mysore to Makar Sankranti in Kununurra, every place in the state has its festival. Karnataka has as long a history as many ancient civilizations, it is at the crossroads of the south and the west, and it is a multicultural society. Karnataka celebrates a wide variety of festivals, ceremonies, and events.

Hampi, Kambala, Pattadakal Dance Festival or Chalukya Dance Festival, Ugadi, Pongal, Makar Sankranti, Vairamudi Festival, Sri Vithappa Fair, and Dussehra are a few of the most exciting fairs and festivals of Karnataka that are celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm.

Trying Out the Delectable Cuisines

Masala Dosa is the first thing that comes to mind of almost every traveller when it comes to Karnataka cuisine. Very few people know that Karnataka cuisine, one of the oldest surviving cuisines, is known for its spicy curries and seafood specialties. Rich and delicious, it has been influenced by neighboring states and coastal areas. The most exciting thing about delicacies in Karnataka is that the tastes and variety of the dishes change as you move from one region to another.

While dining in North Karnataka is mostly about vegetarian food, the coastal region will serve you delicious seafood. In the Kodagu area, you will taste the best meat curries and Mangalorean cuisine has a rich flavor of coconut and local spices. Mysore Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak, Ragi Mudde and Sopinna Saru, Obbattu or Holige, Bisi Bele Bath, Kane Rava Fry, Korri Gassi, Coorg Pandi Curry, Maddur Vada, and Dahi Vada are some of the most scrumptious food items here.

Shopping in Karnataka

Shopping is the one and only constant factor that tops travellers’ to-do lists no matter where in the world they travel. But when it comes to the multicultural country of India, each city has something special to offer and is known all over the world. Likewise, the only place in South India famous for its delicious sweets, Silk Saree, and sandalwood oil is none other than the royal city of Mysore.

Things to buy in Karnataka – Sandalwood Products, Mysore Pak, Silk Sarees, Khadi Cotton, Rosewood Artifacts, Coffee Powder, Stone sculptures, Mysore Paintings, and incense sticks or Agarbattis.

Places to Visit in Karnataka

Coorg – Coorg is a picturesque and less popular hill station, aptly called the “Scotland of India”. Its surreal beauty makes it one of the most fascinating tourist spots in Karnataka. Equipped with fragrant coffee plantations, lush greenery in the mountains, and impressive waterfalls plunging into the misty mountains, Coorg enchants every one of its visitors. Exciting hikes through the twisting trails of coffee and spice plantations, elephant camps, coracle rides on the river, wildlife sanctuaries, monasteries, and the local Madikeri market all add up to make the holidays fascinating and exciting.

Major Attractions of the City – Dubare Elephant, Camp, Iruppu Falls, Abbey Falls, and Nagarhole National Park are some of the star attractions of Coorg attracting a huge crowd.

Best Time to Visit – Between March and June

Jog Falls – Locally called Gerusoppa Waterfalls, Jog Falls is unique in the sense that the water does not flow down the rocks in steps; it trades down the slope and loses contact with the rocks, making it the highest Waterfall in India. The beauty of the falls is enhanced by the lush green surroundings that provide a picturesque backdrop. Visitors can walk to the base of the falls and jump into the water. This gorgeous destination comes to life during monsoons and as soon as the weather turns to winter, the radiant sun lets you see a beautiful rainbow around the fall.

Other Attractions Of The Place – Linganamakki Dam across the Sharavathi River, Tunga Anicut Dam, and Tyavarekoppa Lion & Tiger Reserve are a few of the other interesting tourist destinations nearby.

Best Time to Visit – Monsoon months

Mangalore – One of the most astonishing Karnataka’s quiet tourist spots, Mangalore is perfect for a short weekend getaway to break the monotony of urban chores. The city is located at the confluence of the Netravati and Gurupura rivers on the coast of the Arabian Sea. Mangalore plays a huge role in Karnataka tourism as this is the place where one can enjoy strolling and sunbathing at the glimmering beaches, binge on scrumptious and spicy seafood, witness the mesmerizing views of sunsets and sunrise, and explore the shipyard shall never be missed out.

Major Attractions of the Place – Tannirbhavi Beach, Someshwara Temple, Panambur Beach, Kadri Manjunath, Mangaladevi Temple, and Sammilan Shetty’s Butterfly Park are a few of the star attractions of this beautiful city.

Best Time to Visit – October to February is the most recommended time to plan a trip to Mangalore.

Bandipur National Park – If country holidays mean winding roads, if birdsong and wild animal calls are melodies in your ears if the beauty and charm of Bandipur National Park amaze you, it means you have a successful day behind. You the famous tiger and bird sanctuary are an idyllic haven for nature lovers and bird watchers. The number of avid nature lovers flocking to Bandipur National Park has made it one of the ideal places for a day of picnic in Karnataka.

This place used to be a private hunting ground for the Mysore Maharajas, the national park is a habitat for rich flora and fauna, such as wild elephants, spotted deer, gaur, and antelope.

Major Attractions of the Destination – Anjaneyar Temple, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, and Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple are some of the other wonders that one can explore near this gorgeous national park.

Best Time to Visit – October to March is the most recommended time to plan your wildlife tour to Bandipur National Park.

Hampi – A very small yet beautiful city Kannad Village, Hampi is established at the shores of River Tungabhadra. This world-known UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the ruins and historical remnants of the Vijayanagar Empire. The village displays historical ruins and remains of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. The stony landscape and arid beauty of the city are some of the perfect places in Karnataka.

History buffs and architectural scholars flock here in the thousands each year from different corners of the world. Other curious travellers are often spellbound and in awe of the craftsmanship of the skilled artisans of the time. Hampi has almost 500 architectural structures in its ruins, all of which are well worth a visit.

Major Attractions of the Place – Queen’s Bath, Virupaksha Temple, Royal Enclosure, and Riverside ruins are a few of the most astonishing crowd pullers.

Best Time to Visit – Between October and March

Bijapur – One of the best places to vacation the royal way, Bijapur is bestowed with Deccan’s Islamic Era making it one of the most enchanting places in Karnataka. In 2023, this cultural hub of Karnataka was renamed Vijayapura. There are several mosques, palaces, mausoleums, and forts established in the city where tourists from all across the country flock. It is one of the most favorite tourist spots in Karnataka and has a heart for the Lingayat brand of Shaivism. The Lingayat Siddheshwar Festival is celebrated here in all its glory for eight days in January and February.

Major Attractions of Bijapur – Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, Malik-E-Maidan, Jama Masjid, Gagan Mahal, Upli Buruj, etc. are a few of the must-visit destinations in Bijapur.

Best Time to Visit Bijapur – Between October and February as the weather is quite favorable and pleasant for your sightseeing tour.