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40 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka That Will Totally Knock You Out In 2020!

Tourist places in Karnataka spell allure and sedation. Some of these are well-renowned, while the others are left unappreciated. The state’s geographical location ensures diverse tourist places in Karnataka that are captivating enough to knock you out.

The historical and quintessential state of Karnataka occupies a focal place in the tourism map of India. Locked between Kannad Coast, Western Ghats, and Deccan Plateau, the state boasts of forests, hills, temples, caves beaches, riversides, lakes, coffee estates, waterfalls, ruins, and so much more interesting tourist spots, here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Karnataka that you can unravel for an amazing getaway with your loved ones.

40 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka

Beginning from spell bounded beaches, rich biodiversity, ancient cities, rugged mountains, rich biodiversity and much more. The cities in Karnataka are an amalgamation of modernity and ancient charm. Travellers from all across the globe visit the popular places in Karnataka to have an amazing time with their friends and family. Here we give you a handpicked list of some of the most famous tourist attractions in Karnataka. To discover the state’s real charm, acquaint yourself with these drop-dead gorgeous, best tourist places in Karnataka.

  • Bangalore – The Ultimate Tourist Place
  • Coorg – Get Hypnotized With The Aroma Of Arabica Coffee Beans
  • Kabini – Relax And Rejuvenate By The Riverside
  • Jog Falls – Where A Heartfelt ‘wow’ Is The First Reaction
  • Shimoga – The Luxuriant Foliage Describes It All
  • Mangalore – The Sun-kissed Serenity Amidst City Hustle
  • Karwar – Offbeat And 0ff-the-wall
  • Gokarna – Serene Shoreline, Interesting Nightlife, Yummy Seafood Sum It Up
  • Bandipur National Park – Holidaying In The Lap Of Nature
  • Dandeli – The Adventurous Nirvana
  • Hampi – Explore The Ancient City
  • Bijapur – Vacationing The Royal Way
  • Badami, Aihole, And Pattadakal – They Are Rustic, Yet Gorgeous
  • Udupi – The Divine Holiday In Karnataka
  • Chitradurga Fort – The Picturesque Fort
  • Nandi Hills – The Picture-perfect Health Resort
  • Chikmagalur – Tour The Coffee Land Of Karnataka
  • Mysore – Explore The Royal History
  • Murudeshwar – Seek Your Blessings
  • Nagarhole National Park – Embrace The Nature
  • Dubare – Witness The Magnificent Elephants
  • Kotagiri – Relax & Unwind
  • Srirangapatna – Revive The Culture & History
  • Sringeri – Marvel At The Ancient Architecture
  • Belur – Explore The World Heritage Sites
  • Shravanabelagola – A Must Visited Place
  • Devbagh  – Cherish The Scenic Beauty
  • Halebidu – A Perfect Getaway For Spectacular Views
  • Kudremukh – A Picture Perfect Place to be Visited
  • Kemmanagundi – A Hill-Station With Spectacular Views
  • Shivagange – A Best Visited Place For Its Scenic Beauty
  • Maravanthe – Popular For Its Mesmerising Views
  • Sakleshpur – A Beautiful Hill Station
  • Madikeri – Be In The Lap Of Nature
  • Kanakpura – Enjoy The Splash Of Water In Waterfalls
  • Kushalnagar – Ideal For A Weekend Getaway
  • Hasan – Visit The Popular Temple Capital Of Karnataka
  • Ramanagara – Visit The Famous Silk City Of South
  • Madhugiri – Asia’s Largest Monoliths
  • Makalidurga – A Perfect Place To Worship

1. Bangalore – The Ultimate Tourist Destination

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Bangalore, a colorful city of culture and people, is one of the popular tourist destinations to visit in Karnataka. The IT hub of the country offers a cosmopolitan ambience and people from different parts come and settle here for work.
Bangalore has pleasant and comfortable weather round the year and so it is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in summer. Full of wildlife, nature, ruins, museums, architectural wonders, and gardens, Bangalore is a treat for tourists and travelers.

Popular tourist destinations: Bangalore also offers many fascinating tourist destinations within the city to chill out a weekend or a mid-week holiday. Key attractions are Butterfly Park of Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh Glass Place, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Wonder La Amusement Park, ISKCON temple, and Aerospace Museum. Butterfly Park in Bangalore is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Karnataka that you must add to your itinerary.

For more information on places to visit in Bangalore, please go through 10 Fun Places In Bangalore For An Ultimate Whoopee.

Nearest Railway Station: The capital city has its own junction named, Bangalore City Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Bangalore has its own international airport with the name Bengaluru International Airport.

Suggested Read: 20 Best Places To Visit In Chikmagalur In 2020 That Give A Tough Competition To The Northern Hills

2. Coorg – Get Hypnotised With The Aroma Of Arabica Coffee Beans

A quaint and not so popular hill station, Coorg is aptly called ‘Scotland of India’. Its surreal beauty makes it one of the most fascinating tourist places in Karnataka. Endowed with coffee estates full of aroma, luxuriant greenery dotting the mountains, and stunning waterfalls plunging down the misty mountains, Coorg charms each and every one of its visitors.

Thrilling treks along the winding trails of the coffee & spice plantations, visit elephant camp, coracle rides in the river, wildlife sanctuaries, monasteries, and local Madikeri market – all together contribute to make the holiday fascinating and exhilarating.

Popular tourist destination: Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, and Bylakuppe are the most loved ones. Monastery, the second biggest Tibetan settlement in India, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Nagarhole National Park come in close seconds.

For adventure freaks and nature lovers, trek up to Brahmagiri Peak, Chettalli, and a thrilling coracle ride in the nearby river are the draws.

PS: Do not miss to pick some the best coffees, spices, and vanilla stick from Madikeri Bazaar.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station is 106 km from Coorg. Mangalore Station and Hassan Station are also in close proximity.

Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport is 260 km from Coorg. You can also access the glorious hill-station from Mangalore Airport which is 135 km away.

Suggested Read: 12 Hill Stations In Karnataka In 2020 To Rejuvenate Yourself

3. Kabini – Relax And Rejuvenate By The Riverside

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Kabini is one of the most picturesque and the best tourist places in Karnataka, located along the bank of a river with the same name. River Kabini is a tributary of Cauvery. The place is located on the periphery of Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Bandipur Forest, and Nagarhole National Park; hence, offers ample scope of wildlife experience, amongst the best places in Karnataka to explore the wilderness.

Also, you can be lucky enough to spot tiger, leopards, wild elephants, various species of deers, and plenty of residential and nomadic birds, while boating in the river or on a wildlife safari in the nearby jungles.

Popular tourist destination: Wildlife safari at Nagarhole National park, boating at Kabini River, exploring Kabini dam, and the hilly area of Kutta covered with coffee and spice plantations.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station is just about 10 km from the place.

Nearest Airport: 250 km from Kabini, Bangalore Airport is the closest airport.

Suggested Read: Get Ready To Swoosh Across The Jog Falls While Ziplining In Karnataka!

4. Jog Falls – Where A Heartfelt ‘Wow’ Is The First Reaction

Amongst the most famous places in Karnataka, Jog Falls locally known as Gerusoppa falls, Gersoppa Falls, and Jogada Gundi are the second highest waterfalls in the country. Formed by Sharavathi River cascading from an altitude of 253 m (830 ft), the waterfalls are divided into four segments namely Raja, Rocket, Rani, and Roarer. They offer one of the most charming and breathtakingly beautiful places to see in Karnataka.

The State Tourism Department has constructed steps – around 1,500 in number – from the viewpoint till the hill bottom. It is here at the bottom that the alluring beauty of the waterfalls can be seen closely. For their beauty and enchanting sound of gushing water, Jog Falls are one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in summer.

Popular tourist destinations: Linganamakki Dam across Sharavathi River, Tunga Anicut Dam, and Thavare Koppa
Lion & Tiger Reserve are the tourist destinations nearby.

Nearest Railway Station: To reach Jog Falls via train, you need to get down at Sagar Station which is 28 km away.

Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport is the closest airport at a distance of 133 km.

Suggested Read: 12 Charming Places To Visit In Shimoga For A Serene Holiday Experience

5. Shimoga – The Luxuriant Foliage Describes It All

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Shimoga, the cultural capital of Karnataka, is a colourful place enriched with fertile land, beautiful waterfalls, and lush green forests making it one of the best tourist places in karnataka. Its verdant greenery and tranquil ambience make it one of the best places to visit in Karnataka. River Tungabhadra, River Sharavathi, River Varada, and River Kumadvathi have carved out picturesque river valleys here. The place is historically famous as Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and Vijayanagar Kings reigned this region.
Popular tourist destinations: Shivappa Nayaka Summer Palace, Kote Seeta-Rama Temple, Sacred Heart Cathedral, and Tyavarekoppa Lion Safari are the major attractions. Sakrebyle Elephant Camp is also very famous here where you can experience bathing and attend professional training sessions of elephants.

Nearest Railway Station: The city has its own railway station named Shimoga Nagar Railway Station

Nearest Airport: Shimoga Domestic Airport is 1o minutes’ drive from the city and is fairly connected with Mumbai and Delhi. The nearest international airport is at Mangalore International Airport which is 195 km from the city.

Suggested Read: 36 Fabulous Places To See In A Day Around Bangalore In 2020!

6. Mangalore – The Sun-Kissed Serenity Amidst City Hustle

Mangalore is one of the serene tourist spots in Karnataka, impeccable for short weekend trip to break the monotony of urban chores. The town is located at the estuarine junction formed by River Netravati and River Gurupura on the Arabian Sea Coast.

Once in Mangalore, strolling and sunbathing at the beaches, trying spicy, scrumptious seafood, viewing sunrises & sunsets, and visiting the shipyard just cannot be missed. Mangalore is one of the ideal places to visit in Karnataka for 2 days break.

Popular tourist destinations: Tannirbhavi Beach, Panambur Beach, Someshwara Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangaladevi Temple, Kadri Manjunath Temple, and Sammilan Shetty’s Butterfly Park are the major attractions. Don’t miss the unlittered and serene beaches to add the complete effect to your trip.

Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore Railway Station is within the city.

Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport is a mere 15 minutes from the main city.

Suggested Read: 5 Amusement Parks In Mangalore And Near The City For A Fun Vacay In Karnataka

7. Karwar – Offbeat And Off-The-Wall

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Karwar is an offbeat beach destination located near Karnataka-Goa border. The town is one of the upcoming, not-so-popular yet, places to visit in coastal Karnataka. It is ideal for those who desire to have a secluded holiday away from any bustling cat-race of the city. Sun-kissed beaches, charming temples, and majestic forts are the major tourist pullers.

The town is locally popular as ‘Kone’ by the southern villagers, which refers to the corner of the region around the River Kali. Karwar has an exhilarating splendor to it. The surrounding green hills, which are a part of the Western Ghats, enhance the beauty quotient of the place.

Popular tourist destinations: Stroll at the Majali Beach, take a boat ride up to Kurumgad Island, and explore the historical remnants of Sadashivgad Fort. Do not miss the famous Durga Devi and Nagnath Temple.

Nearest Railway Station: Karwar has its own railway station by the name of Karwar Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport Goa is around 2 hours’ drive from Karwar.

Suggested Read: 14 Historical Places In Karnataka Every History Buff Should Visit In 2020

8. Gokarna – Serene Shoreline & Interesting Nightlife

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Travelers looking for complete solace and solemn pleasure should surely visit Gokarna at least once. This low-key, laid-back, and less-commercialised beach destination has won over millions of travelers and backpackers, and is one of the most famous places in Karnataka.

Gokarna is also an important Hindu pilgrim hub with many age-old temples in its confines. Chilling out on the pristine beaches, enjoying the exciting water sports, riding on the thrilling catamaran ride has made it a fascinating tourist retreat.

Popular tourist destinations: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Maha Ganapati Temple, and Om Beach are the major crowd-pullers. Relax and enjoy the thrilling water sports like banana boat ride, snorkelling, and parasailing in the shimmering blue water of Gokarna.

Nearest Railway Station: Gokarna Railway Station is nearest to the town and is well-connected with Marmagao Rail Link.

Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport in Goa is 140 km away from the town.

Suggested Read: 10 Awesome Places To Visit Near Coorg On Your Next Holiday To Karnataka

9. Bandipur National Park – Holidaying In The Lap Of Nature

When holidaying means greenery and winding trails, when birds chirping and calls of the wild animals are melodies to the ears, when the beauty and charm of Bandipur National Park leave you awestruck, it means you have had a successful day in your vacation.

The famous tiger reserve and bird sanctuary is an idyllic retreat for the nature lovers and bird watchers. The number of ardent nature lovers flocking to Bandipur National Park has made it one of the ideal places to visit in Karnataka for a day-picnic. Once a private hunting ground for Maharajas of Mysore, the national park is a habitat to rich varieties of flora and fauna like wild elephants, spotted deer, gaurs, and antelopes.

Popular tourist destinations: Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, Anjaneyar Temple, and Biligirirangan Hills are the major tourist attractions along with wildlife safari at Bandipur National Park are the hits here.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore City Railway Station is the closest rail link, located 80 km from the National Park.

Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport is 220 km from the forest region.

Suggested Read: 9 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka In March 2020 For A Fulfilling Vacay

10. Dandeli – The Adventurous Nirvana

Dandeli is an incredible getaway amidst nature and adventure which has gained it its spot on the list of serene tourist places in Karnataka for 2 days. This scenic hilly terrain surrounded by deciduous forests and wildlife habitat is an ideal vacation destination of Karnataka.

Along with thick and lush green forests, Dandeli is also famous for adventure sports, night camps, nature walks, boating, and angling in Kali River. In a way, a wholesome package for adventure enthusiasts, it is a place you must visit if you are an adrenaline junkie.

Popular tourist destinations: Explore Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Shiroli Park, and Kavala caves for interesting experience. Entice your adventure spree and try out kayaking and whitewater rafting in River Kali.

Nearest Railway Station: Alnavar Junction is the closest railway link, just 23 km away from Dandeli.

Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport is at a distance of 56 km.

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11. Hampi: Explore The Ancient City

Hampi – a small Kannad village located at the bank of Tungabhadra River is now recognised as World Heritage Site by UNESCO making one of the best tourist places in North Karnataka. The village showcases ruins and historical remnants of Vijayanagara Kingdom. The stony landscape and barren beauty of the town is one of the perfect places to visit in Karnataka.

History buffs and architecture scholars flock in thousands of number here annually. Other curious travelers often feel spell-bound and awestruck of the craftsmanship of the skilled artisans of the era. Hampi has almost 500 architectural structure in its ruins, all of which are worth visiting.

Popular tourist destinations: Monkey Temple, Archeological Museum, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Royal Enclosure, Virupaksha Temple, Queen’s Bath, and Riverside Ruins are the crowd-pullers.

Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction is the Nearest Railway Station to Hampi, at about 13 km from the place.

Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is at Hubli Airport at about 74 km from Hampi. Bellary Airport and Belgaum Airport are also nearby.

12. Bijapur – Vacationing The Royal Way

As a serene and famous historical town, Bijapur boasts of Deccan’s Islamic Era and its glories inherited making it one of the most beautiful places in Karnataka. Bijapur, renamed as Vijapura in 2014, is a cultural hub and has plenty of mosques, mausoleums, palaces, and forts as offerings to travelers.

Bijapur is one of the popular tourist spots in Karnataka and a heart for the Lingayat brand of Shaivism. The Lingayat Siddeshwara Festival is celebrated with full splendor for eight days in January and February here.

Popular tourist destinations: Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, Malik-e-Maidan displaying Bara Kaman, Bijapur Fort, Jami Masjid, Gagan Mahal, and Upli Buruj are a must visit.

Nearest Railway Station: Bijapur has its own railway link by the name of Bijapur Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Sambre Airport in Belgaum is the closest one and located at about 164 km from the city.

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13. Badami, Aihole And Pattadakal – Rustic & Gorgeous

Dusty roads, barren topography, red stone architecture, and rocky cliffs iconize the surroundings of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal – the best places to visit in north Karnataka. These Heritage Sites as declared by UNESCO, are the must visit Karnataka attractions.

You can discover Chalukyan wrecks and ruins while strolling along the century old temples, caves, and forts in Badami. Aihole has historical connotation and is known as cradle of Hindu rock architecture. Moreover Pattadakal houses uniquely designed temples. It’s a set of places which you must explore to understand the marvel of the place.

Popular tourist destinations: Badami is famous for Badami Fort, Buddha rock-cut Caves, and Bhootnath Temple. Aihole is known for Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple, Archeological Temple, and Huchimalli Temple. Virupaksha & Papanatha Temple and Galaganatha Shrine are major attractions in Pattadakal.

Nearest Railway Station: All the three places are close by and can be reached from Hubli Railway Station, just 100 km away.

Nearest Airport: Belgaum Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 190 km.

14. Udupi – The Divine Holiday In Karnataka

Udupi is ethereal, verdant, and blissful. Locked between misty Western Ghats and pristine Arabian Sea, Udupi is also known as Odipu in local language. It is popular for its temples, architecture, wood artefacts, beaches, stone carving, Yakshagana – the theatre art genre, and special type of local cuisine, which includes Saaru, Koddelu, Huli, Tambuli, Kosambari, Bajji, and such.

Popular tourist destinations: Sri Krishna Temple, Malpe Beach, St. Mary’s Islands, Ambalpady, and Shiriyara are the major attractions

Nearest Railway Station: Udupi has its own railway station with the name of Udupi Railway Station.

Nearest Airport: Bajpe Airport of Mangalore is the nearest airport to Udupi at just 48 km.

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15. Chitradurga Fort – The Picturesque Fort 

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Truly one of the best places to enjoy Karnataka sightseeing, the monument located in Chitradurga town has immense archaeological and historical significance. The fort has witnessed history from the time period of Chalukyas Empire and the renowned legend of Onake Obavva. The fort even has a mention in the epic of Mahabharata.

Chitradurga Fort or Chitaldoorg Fort, as it is locally known, is a fortified structure that connects several hills and a peak overlooking the nearly flat valley.

Popular tourist destinations: Besides the eminent fort, the Ankali Mutt, Vani Vilas Sagar Dam, Hidimbeshwar Temple, Kugo Bande, and Shouting Rock are worth visiting.

Nearest Railway Station: Chitradurga Railway Station is the nearest.

Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport, which is 197 km away from the fort area is the nearest.

16. Nandi Hills – The Picture-Perfect Health Resort

The list of places to visit in and around Karnataka is not complete if we do not include this along with the popular health resort of same name. Nandi Hills are located east of Bangalore and offer delightful beauty to the travelers. Serene lake, majestic forts, ancient temples, and jaw-dropping backdrops make it a picture-perfect weekend retreat and one of the ultimate places to visit in Karnataka in summer.

Viewing sunrise from hilltop amidst of cloud, fog and misty weather is probably a lavish treat to the soul. The place also has a historical significance. Tipu Sultan and his royalty retired here at Nandi Hills, when they sought to escape the commotion of battles and the heat of the plain land.

Popular tourist destinations: Nandi Temple, century-old Lord Shiva Temple, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple are the primary attractions.

Nearest Railway Station: Chikkaballapur Railway Station is 19 Kms from Nandi Hills and is the closest one.

Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport is an hour’s drive from here.

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17. Chikmagalur – Tour The Coffee Land Of Karnataka

Often known as the coffee land of Karnataka, this place is surrounded by scenic beauty along with the strong aroma of coffee. This hill station is situated at the foothills of Mullayanagiri range and is famous for its serene nature, lush green forests, and the Yagachi River.

Chikmagalur is an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway with friends in Karnataka, being the largest producer of coffee, it is the best place to be for coffee lovers. You can explore the tranquil coffee plantations and go on a nature walk and trekking trails in the hills.

Popular tourist destinations: Mahatma Gandhi Park, Coffee Museum, Mullayana Giri, Kudurekha Jamly

Nearest Railway Station: Chikkamagaluru railway station

Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport

18. Mysore – Explore The Royal History

Mysore is one of the largest princely states that boats numerous tourist spots for you to get in touch with the royal history of this place. Also known as the city of palaces in southern India, it is the most idyllic destination to visit in Karnataka with a dash of royal touch.

Mysore is also famous for its silk sarees, the intricate architecture, sandalwood, the royal heritage and yoga. However, the biggest attraction of the city is the Mysore Palace that reflects the beauty and charm of the royal city. Marvel at the elaborate architecture, the intricate carvings, and the stained glass windows. This city won’t leave you disappointed.

Popular tourist destinations: Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo, Sri Chamundeshwari temple, Brindavan Gardens

Nearest Railway Station: Chamarajapuram railway station

Nearest airport: Bangalore International Airport

Suggested Read: 10 Temples In Karnataka That Are All About Grandeur That You Must Visit In 2020!

19. Murudeshwar – Seek Your Blessings

This holy town features of the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world that is beautifully located with Arabian Sea on all three sides and the majestic Western Ghats showing their presence on the town. A favourite haunt for day trips, the serene beaches and adventure activities are what intrigues travelers the most to visit this town.

Apart from being a favourite picnic spot, it’s also famous for mesmerizing temples and forts, you can plan a visit to nearby destinations like Netrani island that offer many water sport activities like scuba diving and snorkelling.

Popular tourist destinations: Statue of Lord Shiva, Murudeshwar temple

Nearest Railway Station: Murdeshwar railway station

Nearest airport: Mangalore Airport

20. Nagarhole National Park – Embrace The Nature

Explore the wildlife of Karnataka at the storehouse of rich flora and fauna, Nagarhole National Park is an ideal place to spot the majestic creatures of the wild. Get to witness the wild animals in their natural habitat like Asiatic elephants, different species of birds and Indion bisons or simply soak in the raw nature surrounding you.

Apart from the wildlife, there are plenty of cultural and heritage spots in the park as well. You can visit the temples to seek tranquility and soak in the calm and positivity. Witness breathtaking waterfalls on the way as you seek respite away from the hustle and bustle.

Popular tourist attractions: Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Rameshwara temple, Iruppu Falls

Nearest Railway Station: Krishnarajanagar

Nearest airport: Mandakalli Airport, Mysore

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21. Dubare – Witness The Magnificent Elephants

Go an elephantastic adventure at this place in Karnataka that allows you to bathe and play with the magnificent animals of the jungle kingdom. Get up and close with these gigantic elephants, interact with them and enjoy their company in absolute wilderness.

The elephant training camp here is famous for indulging in a number of activities, learning and creating a unique experience with the elephants.

Popular tourist attractions: Dubare Elephant Camp, Harangi Dam, Nisargadhama

Nearest Railway Station: Krishnarajanagar

Nearest airport: Mangalore Airport

22. Kotagiri – Relax & Unwind

A quaint hill station surrounded by the majestic Nilgiri mountains, it exudes peace and tranquility in its every corner. Kotagiri observes pleasant climatic conditions all year round and boasts several coffee plantations, lush greenery, and tea plantations to tour around.

Kotagiri is also the third largest hill station in Karnataka, and believed to have the world’s second best climate. It serves as a perfect alternative to Ooty if you prefer lesser crowd as it is much more peaceful than Ooty.

Popular tourist attractions: Catherine Water Falls, Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line, Longwood Shola Reserve Forest, Lamb’s Rock

Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam

Nearest airport: Coimbatore Airport

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23. Srirangapatna – Revive The Culture & History

This ancient river island town in the shape of egg is surrounded by river Kaveri on all sides and is also a popular picnic spot located at a distance of 22km from Mysore in Mandya district of Karnataka. The town exudes an old world charm, vintage vibes and a historical relevance attached to it that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Karnataka.

This town was once the capital of Mysore under Tipu Sultan and is home to several historically significant heritage sites. Surrounded by scenic beauty of stunning waterfalls and lush greenery, Srirangapatna is a must visit for travelers visiting Karnataka.

Popular tourist attractions: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Dariya Daulat Palace, Balmuri Falls, Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon

Nearest Railway Station: Shrirangapattana railway station

Nearest airport: Mysore Airport

Suggested Read: 21 Exciting Things To Do In Chikmagalur On Your Next Vacay In Karnataka!

24. Sringeri – Marvel At The Ancient Architecture

A hill town located in the Chikkamagaluru district, and is the first site of matha that was established by Adi Shankara in the 8th century. It holds a historical significant value and the abode of the Sharadamba of Sringeri.

This ancient hill town is one of the most famous places to see in Karnataka, a hillock which is considered to be the home of the sage Vibhandaka and his son Rishyashringa.

Popular tourist attractions: Shringeri Sharadamba, Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya, Vidyashankara Temple, Sri Torana Ganpati Temple

Nearest Railway Station: Udupi

Nearest airport: Mangalore airport

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25. Belur – Explore The World Heritage Sites

Once the ancient capital of the Hoysala empire, this ancient town is a major tourist destination in Karnataka which is home to the famous Chennakesava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Home to multiple temples, many devotees travel to this town to worship the deities.

Marvel at the ancient architecture of the temples built in the Dravidian style and the Hoysala style of architecture that have intricate carvings which took almost 103 years to finish the temple.

Popular tourist attractions: Chennakeshava Temple, Hoysala Emblem, Yagachi Dam

Nearest railway station: Chikmagalur railway station

Nearest airport: Bajpe Airport

26. Shravanabelagola  – A Must Visited Place

Sravanbelagola is known as a crucial pilgrimage for Jain witn the height of  this temple is 57 metres it is a monolithic sculpture of Lord Gomateswara, commonly known as Bahubali statue. Situated almost 144 km away from Bengaluru in the Hassan District, this temple attracts a large number of visitors every year.

Popular tourist destination: 

Located between two hills Vindyagiri and Chandigiri, this temple is also known as Belagola. Now, if we consider the meaning of Belagola, “bela” refers to the colour white and “kola” refers to pond in Kannada language. Among all the tourist places in Karnataka, this tourist point is the most important place and it  takes an entire day to visit all the monuments individually. Visitors who find it difficult to climb both of these hills will get Palanquin or the Dolis which are available for INR 800.  

Nearest railway station: 

The nearest railway station in Shravanabelagola is at Hassan as most of the trains halt there. Apart from trains, Shravanabelagola is well connected through roads and the roads are nicely maintained. 

Nearest airport:

Mysore has its nearest airport and that can be easily accessed by availing the cab service. 

Suggested Read: 9 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka In March 2020 For A Fulfilling Vacay

27. Devbagh – Cherish The Scenic Beauty

If you consider all the tourist places in Karnataka, this tourist point is popularly known as the best one because of its scenic beauty, the picture perfect background with wide range of mountains, pristine blue water and lush green belt of trees. With a blend of all these beauties, Devbagh has a lot of things to offer. It’s an exotic island, situated along the coastline of the Arabian sea which is nearly 2 kms from the southern part of Goa. 

Popular tourist destination:

Tourists will find splendid weather throughout the year in this beach town and because of this pleasant weather, vacationers will find fresh seafood and can experience the sunsets and few water sports.  Furthermore, vacationers can also visit places in devbagh such as Tagore Beach, Lighthouse of Devbagh, Sadashivgad fort, the Shejjeswar temple. Apart from these tourist points, this place is a perfect getaway for the newlywed  couples. 

How to Reach

As this place is situated at the western  boundary of the nation and in proximity of some major tourist destinations, this place is accessible through all the three modes of conveyance. 

Suggested Read: 11 Places To Visit In Bidar To Admire The Beauty Of Karnataka In 2020!

28. Halebidu – A Perfect Getaway For Spectacular Views

Are you looking for some wonderful tourist places in Karnataka? Well, here are some details about Halebid, which will guide you to know about the city in a better way. The city of Halebid has a wonderful collection of temples, sculptures and shrines. The city is also considered as the Gem of Indian architecture because of its stunning Jain sites and the temple complexes. 

Popular Tourist Destinations:

People, while visiting there can visit the temples like Kedareshwara and Hoyaleswara for its beautiful sculptures and the panels which are designed as the prominent Hoysala style.

Nearest Railway Station:

It is a very small town which is situated near Hassan and the visitors generally stay in the heart of the city for the day trip to Halebid. The nearest railway station is Hasaan which is 27 km away from  the main city and the station can be accessed by a cab or taxi service.

Nearest Airport: 

The closest airport is Mangalore Airport which is 168 km away. 

Suggested Read: 12 Stunning Places To Visit In Summer In Karnataka For A Relaxing Retreat In 2020

29. Kudremukh – A Picture Perfect Place to be Visited

Kudremukh is always popular for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. Being a famous hill-station in the crowd of Bangalore, this place is basically a hill range of Karnataka. With the dense forest, grasslands and the rolling meadows, Kudremukh is a hotspot for biodiversity. 

Popular tourist destination:

At an altitude of 1894 meters, the Kudremukh Peak is heaven for the trekkers and the naturists. The visitors will love to experience the diversity of flora and fauna.  

Nearest Railway Station:

The closest railway station is at Mangalore and there are many trains which are connected to the different cities.The nearest railway station at Mangalore with trains connecting to many cities. The nearest airport is also in Mangalore and is accessible by taxis. It is also well connected by road with buses plying regularly from Mangalore.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport is at Mangalore and the airport is accessible by taxis. Apart from taxis the airport is also well connected by buses to different routes. 

Suggested Read: Explore These Top 11 Places To Visit In Hubli For A Cultural And Heritage Tour Of Karnataka In 2020!

30. Kemmanagundi – A Hill-Station With Spectacular Views

 This is a hill-station with wide-spread views and visitors will experience beautiful gardens. Vacationers will be retreated with a spectacular beauty of the hills and that is a heaven for all the nature and the adventure lovers. 

Popular tourist destinations:

The natural beauty comes up from all the dimensions, the lush green dense forest, waterfalls and the streams and the exquisite gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society of Karnataka is another attraction for the visitors who find Karnataka as the best place for planning a trip. The place is best for trekking, picnics and especially for nature walks. The tourist attraction includes Hebbe falls, Rock garden, Z point and the Shiva temple.  

Nearest Railway Station

The nearest railway station is Tarikere and the station is 35 Km away and considered as the best way to commute to Kemmanagundi. There are some state run as well as private buses which are connected to Kemmanagundi  station. 

The closest railway station is Tarikere which is 35 km away and the best way to commute to Kemmanagundi. There are many state run and private buses which are connected to this hill station. You can also prefer to drive down as the roadways are very well connected.

Nearest Airport

The closest airport is Mangalore airport and this is approximately 150 Km away from Kemmanagundi. 

Suggested Read: 20 Places To Visit Near Mysore In 2020 For A Great Vacation In Karnataka

31. Shivagange – A Best Visited Place For Its Scenic Beauty

Shivagange, is a popular destination, located 56 km away from Bangalore and also well known for temples and the scenic beauty which makes it both a place for pilgrimage and a spot for exploring your adventure. 

Popular Tourist destination

This place is also known as Dakshina Kashi as it is a home for different temples like Olakala teertha, Patala Gange, Nandi Statue and Gangadhareshwara temple. The spectacular architecture of Nandi is a special attraction for the tourists. The hilly feature of this place attracts a lot of people who seek adventure sports and find it perfect for trekking as well as rock climbing. 

How to reach

The nearest  airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. Also the place is well connected by different trains run on a regul



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40 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka That Will Totally Knock You Out In 2020!

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