Tourist Place Karnataka | Place to Visit in Karnataka | Karnataka Map
The two main river systems of the state are Krishna and its tributaries (Bhima, Ghataprabha, Vedavati, Malaprabha, and Tungabhadra) in the north, and the Cauvery and its tributaries (Hemavati, Shimsha, Arkavathi, Lakshmana Thirtha and Kabini) in the south. Both these rivers flow eastward and fall into the Bay of Bengal. Though several etymologies have been suggested for the name Karnataka, the generally accepted one is that Karnataka is derived from the Kannada words karu and nādu, meaning elevated land. Karu nadu may also be read as Karu (black) and nadu (region), as a reference to the black cotton soil found in the Bayaluseeme region of Karnataka. The British used the word Carnatic (sometimes Karnatak) to describe both sides of peninsular India, south of the Krishna River.
With an antiquity that dates to the paleolithic, Karnataka has also been home to some of the most powerful empires of ancient and medieval India. The philosophers and musical bards patronised by these empires launched socio-religious and literary movements which have endured to the present day. Karnataka has contributed significantly to both forms of Indian classical music, the Carnatic (Karnataka Music) and Hindustani traditions. Writers in the Kannada language have received the most number of Jnanpith awards in India. Bangalore is the capital city of the state and is at the forefront of the rapid economic and technological development that India is experiencing.
Fast Facts of Karnataka:
State Capital:
BangaloreLocation:
Stretches from 11.5o N to 18.5 o N and 74o E and 78.5o E longitude.Neighboring States:
Maharashtra and Goa to the North, Arabian Sea to the West, Kerala and Tamil Nadu to the South, and Andhra Pradesh to the East.Area:
1,91,791 sq. km.Population:
52,733,958 (according to the 2001 census)Regional Language:
KannadaClimate:
Semi-tropicalSeasons:
Summer - March to May,Winter - December to March, and
Monsoon - (South-West) June to August, (North-East) October to December.
Physiography:
Karavali (Coastal Plain), Sahyadris or Western Ghats, Malnad (Transitional Belt), Southern Plateau, Northern Plateau and Eastern Ghats.Weather Karnataka:
Climate of Karnataka:
In a year Karnataka has four seasons typically. Summer starts in March and continues till May. Monsoon season begins in June and continues till September. Fall season starts in October & goes up to November. And finally winter begins in December & goes up to February. The maximum temperature recorded ever in karnataka state was 45.6 degree Centigrade in Raichur district & minimum temperature 3 degrees centigrade. Leaving the monsoon season, rest of the year is always pleasant - Place to visit in Karnataka.
Towns & Cities in Karnataka:
Every district head quarters is a developed place. Each district has towns and some of them have even cities located with in their borders.
Bagalkot:
Badami, Bagalkot,Bilgi, Hungund, Jamkhandi, Mudhol.Bangalore Urban:
Anekal, Bangalore North, Bangalore East, Bangalore SouthBangalore Rural:
Devanahalli, Doddaballapura, Hoskote, Nelamangala.Belgaum:
Athni, Bailahongal, Belgaum, Chikodi, Gokak, Hukkeri, Khanapur, Raybag, Ramdurg, Saundatti.Bellary:
Bellary, Hospet, Kampli, Hoovina, Hadagalli, Kudligi, Sanduru, Siruguppa.Bidar:
Bidar, Basava, kalyan, Bhalki, Homnabad, Aurad.Bijapur:
Bijapur, Indi, Muddebihal, Sindgi, Basavana BagevadiChamrajanagar:
Chamrajnagar, Gundlupet, Kollegal, Yelandur.Chikballapur:
Bagepalli, Chikballapur, Chintamani, Gauribidanur, Gudibanda, SidlaghattaChikmagalur:
Chikmagalur, Kadur, Koppa, Mudigere, Narasimharajapura, Sringeri, TarikereChitradurga:
Challakere, Chitradurga, Hiriyur, Holalkere, Hosadurga, Molakalmuru.Dakshina Kannada:
Bantwal, Beltangadi, Mangalore, Puttur, Sulya.Davangere:
Channagiri, Davanagere, Harihar, Harpanahalli, Honnali, Jagalur.Dharwad:
Hubli, Kalghatgi, Kundgol, Navalgund.Gadag:
Gadag-Betigeri, Mundargi, Nargund, Ron, Shirhatti.Gulbarga:
Afzalpur, Aland, Chincholi, Chitapur, Gulbarga, Jevargi, Sedam.Hassan:
Alur, Arkalgud, Arsikere, Belur,Channarayapattana, Hassan, Holenarsipur, Sakleshpur.Haveri:
Byadgi, Hangal, Haveri,Hirekerur, Ranibennur, Savanur, Shiggaon.Kodagu:
Madikeri, Somvarpet, Virajpet.Kolar:
Bangarapet, Kolar, Malur, Mulbagal, Srinivaspur.Koppal:
Gangawati, Koppal, Kushtagi, Yelbarga.Mandya:
Krishnarajpet, Maddur, Malavalli, Mandya, Nagamangala, Pandavapura, Shrirangapattana.Mysore:
Heggadadevana kote, Hunsur, Krishnarajanagara, Mysore, Nanjangud, Piriyapatna, T.Narsipur.Raichur:
Devadurga, Lingsugur, Manvi, Raichur, Sindhnur.Ramnagara:
Channapatna, Kanakapura, Ramanagara, Magadi.Shimoga:
Bhadravati, Hosanagara, Sagar, Shikaripura, Shimoga, Sorab, Thirthahalli.Tumkur:
Chiknayakanhalli, Gubbi, Koratagere, Kunigal, Madhugiri, Pavagada, Sira, Tiptur, Tumkur, Turuvekere.Udupi:
Udupi, Karkal, Kundapura.Uttara Kannada:
Ankola, Bhatkal, Haliyal, Honnavar, Joida, Karwar, Kumta, Mundgod, Siddapur, Sirsi, Yellapur.Yadgir:
Shahpur, Shorapur, YadgirTourist Place Karnataka / Hill Stations in Karnataka:
Biligiri Rangana Betta Hill:
Biligirirangana Hills, also known as the B R Hills is a pleasant hill station, located about 120 kms from Mysore and 247 kms from Bangalore. The Biligirirangana range of hills is picturesquely situated between the Cauvery and the Tungabhadra rivers. This hill stretches from north to south for about 16 kms and surrounded by deciduous trees. The B R Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is located near these hills where various types of plants, birds, reptiles and wild animals can be seen. This hill station takes its name from the Biligiriranganaswamy Temple that is situated right on top of the hill, at an altitude of 5,091 feet above sea level.
Chikmagalur:
Chikmagalur district takes its name from the Chikmagalur, the headquarter town. Chikmagalur literally means younger daughter's town. According to the legends, Chikmagalur was given as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the legendary chief of Sakrepatna. Chikmagalur is located in a lush valley south of the Babu-Budan range. The district houses fascinating monuments of all religions like the Kondadarama Temple, the Jamia Mosque and the St. Joseph's Cathedral.
Hiremagalur is another part of the town that was also given to the elder daughter. Hiremagalur which is now a part of Chikmagalur town has an Ishwara Temple with a 1.22 metre high, intriguing figure of Jademuni. The temple also houses a Yoopastambha, believed to be installed by King Janamejaya, during his serpent sacrifice. An ancient fort and its moat are the other places of interest. Certain ancient inscriptions reveal that these two places were originally known as Kiriya-magalu and Piriya-magalu.
Kemmanagundi:
Kemmanagundi is situated in the Baba Budan Hills. It served in the past as the summer resort of the Maharaja of Mysore, Wodeyar monarch Krishnaraje Wodeyar IV after whom the hill station is also known as the KR Hills. The Royal Horticultural Society of Karnataka has its office here with exquisitely landscaped gardens and beautiful flowers.
Within walking distance of Kemmanagundi are the Hebbe Falls. This 168 meters high waterfall is interrupted midway by a rock shelf before it pours downhill. The latter is a pleasant picnic site. The Kalahatti Falls that cascade down 122 meters is another draw, about 10 kilometers from Kemmanagundi.
Kemmanagundi of Karnataka is 260 kilometers from Bangalore, 225 kilometers from Mangalore (the nearest airport), and 55 kilometers from Chikmagalur. Trains stop at Tarakere, the station closest to the place. State Transport buses carry passengers to Kemmanagundi from Bangalore but the most convenient way to get here is to drive.
Kemmanagundi at Karnataka boasts delightful weather round the year since the temperature never exceeds 28ºC. Summer is the most important tourist season while the crowds reduce significantly in the course of the monsoons which makes for a better and more worthwhile visit.
The Horticulture Department's Guest House is the most frequented place of accommodation in Kemmanagundi. You can also put up at Chikmagalur and Shimoga nearby which offer a vast array of economy and deluxe hotels.
Kemmanagundi is a popular hill station in Karnataka.
Kudremukh Hill Station:
Kudremukh, the horse-face hill station is situated about 95 kms south-west of Chikmaglur town. This hill station is known so due to the unique horse-face shape of the Kudremukh Peak. Kudremukh is a secluded hill station, which retains much of its pristine, natural beauty. Kudremukh overlooks the Arabian Sea, and its broad hills are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. Sylvan green forests enriched by mighty rivers, grassy slopes, cascades and rare orchids provide a wonderful setting for trekking. Kudremukh is also rich in iron ore deposits.
Coorg Hill Station / Madikeri Hill Station:
Kodagu is an administrative district in Karnataka State in southern India. It is also known by its anglicised former name of Coorg. It occupies an area of 4,102 square kilometres (1,584 sq mi) of land in the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka.
As of 2001, the population was 5,48,561, with some 13.74% of the population residing in the district's urban centres.
Madikeri is a picturesque, charming town situated at a height of over 5,000 feet (1,525 m) above sea level. Madikeri, also known as Mercara is the district headquarters and capital of the Coorg district in Karnataka. Coorg, originally known as Kodaimalenadu means the dense forest on steep hill. This small hill station is also referred as the Scotland of India and set in the heart of exotic coffee growing country. This town offers plenty of attractions to the tourists like lovely walks, wonderful views of the sea, and historic fort and a palace. Coorg is famous for its picturesque tea and coffee estates, misty hills, lush green forest,Mountain streams, orange groves, undulating streets, breathtaking views and its beautiful people with their martial spirit combined with graceful manners. Some of the important places to visit around Madikeri are Madikeri Fort - 19th century fort houses a temple, a chapel, prison and a small museum, Raja seat - a well maintained garden and offers beautiful sunset, Nagarhole National Park, Abbi Falls - a beautiful waterfall, Bhaga Mandala, Nisargadhama and Tala Kaveri - the birth place of river Kaveri, is an astoundingly beautiful place which is surrounded by mountains. Madikeri can be visited throughout the year as the weather is very pleasant, except in the monsoons.
Nandi Hills:
Nandi Hills is a hill station situated 60 kilometers north of Bangalore. This summer resort, also called Nandidurga, served as one of the summer retreats of Tipu Sultan.
Nandi Hills had been frequented by the British who constructed bungalows and laid down gardens here. Nowadays the place is very popular with Bangaloreans who consider it a perfect weekend refuge. The 1478 meters high Nandi Hills is the source of several rivers.
The jungles enclosing the hills are filled with wild animals. Near the Nandi Hills are several smaller hills which are accessible even on foot.
The chief attractions of Nandi Hills are:
Tipu's Drop:
A 600 meters towering cliff face where following legend, sentenced prisoners were pushed to their death.Yoga Nandishvara Temple:
This exquisite Chola temple has an inscription of Sambhaji, Shivaji's son. The Dwarapalakas, the marvelous metallic figures are a must-see.Nandi:
Located at the north-eastern foot of Nandi Hills. This village was once a British Military Station. The Bhoga Nandishvara Temple Complex here is one of the most significant Dravidian-style edifices.Muddenahalli:
The native town of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the architect of present Karnataka, Muddenahalli is only a few kilometers from Nandi Hills. His residence now houses a museum.Chamundi Hills:
The Chamundi Hills are located in India, close to the palace city of Mysore. Its average elevation is 1,000 meters.
According to legend, the demon Mahishasura, king of the area that is currently Mysore, was killed by the Goddess Chamundeswari (also Chamundi) after a fierce battle. The hills are named for the goddess, and a temple honors her in the hills. The temple has a beautiful idol of the goddess wearing a garland of skulls. The temple has always been patronised by the rulers of Mysore. In earlier days, the Maharajas of Mysore would ride the ceremonial Dasara elephant during the annual Dasara festival; since India gained independence, the idol of Goddess Chamundi is taken on an elephant.
Climbing the steps of Chamundi Hills is a popular way of keeping fit among the locals in Mysore. The main set of 1000 steps takes anywhere between 12 to 30 minutes to climb depending on an individual's fitness levels and provides an excellent way to increase cardio vascular fitness. Some individuals climb only till the Nandi which is about 700 steps, then run on the downhill road to the other side of Chamundi hills for about 2 Kilometers and climb another set of 600 steps to the top. This set of steps at the back of the hill is not very well known but provide an excellent challenge for fitness. Groups of youngsters also tend to trek through the jungle and thickets of the Chamundi Hill Slopes to the top. This has reduced in recent years due to stories of leopards residing on the jungle slopes. Sometimes leopards have been sighted near the roads during late evenings leading to the top and have been photographed providing a sense of additional thrill to people who seek adventure walking up the slopes.
Beaches of Karnataka:
Devbagh Beach:
The picturesque Devbagh beach is located on an island that can be reached by speedboats from the Karwar coast. This secluded beach dotted with casuarina groves provides the perfect getaway from the din of city life. Sparkling azure waters and the ivory beach will soothe your weary soul.
Devbagh beach is the ideal retreat for people looking for some seclusion and tranquility. Cut off from the mainland, you can laze around, lie in a hammock or soak in glorious sunshine. Live in tented cottages or huts and marvel at the wonders of nature beneath starry skies.
Besides strolling around in these sun-kissed beaches, you can frolic in the blue seas and enjoy exciting water sports. A tiny secluded cove on Lady's Island serves as the hub of these activities and even non-swimmers are encouraged to snorkel, wearing life- jackets. Dive deep into the seas and explore the exotic ocean life.
Karwar Beach:
Malpe's Beach:
Malpe is famed for its silvery beaches that offer breathtaking views of the sea. An idyllic resort for boating, fishing and bathing the town lies around 386 km from Bangalore.
Udupi is at a distance of 60 km from Mangalore.
Marwanthe Beach:
Marwanthe is a unique seaside town, where the West Coast Highway cruises along with the Arabian Sea on one side, and the river Sauparnika rushes against a verdant mountainous backdrop on the other. It is 110 km north of Mangalore and has a scenic beach. Baindur is a small town, 45 km from Maravanthe. It has a beautiful beach nearby. Ottanane near Baindur is famous for its glorious sunset.Watersports and beach resorts promise an enjoyable holiday here. Maravanthe is 525 kms from Bangalore and 110 kms from Mangalore. It can be approached by road and rail from Bangalore and Mangalore.
St. Mary's Island Beach:
Contrary to other beaches with endless stretch of golden sand, St Mary's Island's rocky terrain does not encourage swimming or strolling along the shores. One can only gaze around and marvel at the idiosyncrasies of the expansive rock formations strewn around the beach.
St Mary's group of islands got their name courtesy Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama who descended on these islands in 1498 before he reached Calicut. Gama called one of the islands "El Padron de Santa Maria." The northernmost island is about a square mile in area and not more than 250 yards in width. It has a coconut grove, which makes it the shadiest island of the group and gives it true South Sea color.
Murudeshwar Beach:
Murudeshwara is a town in the Bhatkal Taluk of Uttara Kannada district in the state of Karnataka, India. "Murudeshwara" is another name of the Hindu god Shiva. Famous for the world's second-tallest Shiva statue, Murudeshwara beach town lies on the coast of the Arabian Sea and is also famous for the Murudeshwara Temple.
WIth the roaring sea to the west, the towering hills to the east and the coconut and areca groves nearby, the temple attracts a lot of devotees and tourists as well.
While touring this land of picture-postcard scenery, be sure to witness some of the quaint rituals like Bhuta worship, the Kambala (buffalo race) or Korikatta the cockfight.
Partake of the delicacies of coastal Karnataka, the mouth - watering sweets, spicy fish curries and a variety of rice calces.
Savour the juicy fruits a wide variety of mangoes, jackfruit, cashew and bananas, which abound in this fertile land. And take home memories as colourful and varied as your experiences.
Malpe Beach, Udupi:
Malpe is a natural port about six kilometers to the west of Udupi, Karnataka, India. An important port and fishing harbor on the Karnataka coast, Malpe is situated at the mouth of the Udyavara river. It is a suburb in Udupi city and is administerd by Udupi City Municipality. Tulu, Kannada and Konkani are spoken here.
Ullal Beach, Mangalore:
Ullal is a panchayat town in Dakshina Kannada district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is a small town about 8–10 km south of Mangalore close to the border between the two southern states of Karnataka and Kerala. It comprises two revenue villages Ullal and Parmannur in Mangalore Taluk. Ullal is located adjacent to City Corporation of Mangalore at a distance of 10 KM from District head quarters.
Tannirbhavi Beach:
Tannirubhavi beach is a beach in Mangalore, Karnataka, India. Currently, it can only be reach by land via Panambur or by ferry via Gurupura river from Sultan Battery.
On the other side of the landstrip of the beach there is a barge mounted 220 MW power plant set up by the GMR group.
Gokarna Beach:
Turtle Bay, Marvanthe:
Murudeswar Beach:
Popular Tourist Place Karnataka:
Mysore:
The Jaganmohana Palace, the Jayalakshmi Vilas and the Lalitha Mahal are some of the other palaces in the city. Chamundeshwari Temple, atop the Chamundi Hills and St. Philomena's Church are popular religious places in Mysore.
The Mysore Zoo, established in 1892, and the Karanji and Kukkarahalli lakes are also popular spots for tourists. Museums in Mysore include the Regional Museum of Natural History, the Folk Lore Museum, the Railway Museum and the Oriental Research Institute. The city is also a centre for yoga-related health tourism that attracts lot of foreign visitors as well. A Wax Museum "Melody World" was established in October 2010 based on Musical instruments exhibiting over 110 life-size wax statues and 300 musical instruments arranged in various bands and stage settings.
Mysore has about 180 parks and playgrounds. Most of the residential areas have their own small parks: e.g. Ambedkar Park in Jayanagar a southern city district has a 500-metre perimeter footpath. The newly built Andolan Circle Park has a walking track that takes five minutes for one round. This park is near Kuvempu Nagar in South Bangalore. But many Mysoreans prefer to walk around the many lakes which pepper the landscape such as the central Kukarahalli Kere by the university where the journey around is about 4.5 kilometres. Another is the Lingabudhi Kere which has a footpath with bamboo forests and again takes more than 20 minutes for one round. This park it is a desirable neighbourhood to the southwest called Rama Krishna Nagar, 5 km away from the city centre.
Coorg or Kodagu:
Coorg (Kodagu) is the Hill station, many local sights attracting tourists in Coorg. Madikeri, Talakaveri, Irupu Falls, Tibetan Golden Temples, Thadiandamol, Nagarahole National Park is the places to see in Coorg. Major Festival in Coorg is Puttari, Kailpoldu, Kaveri Sankramana, Madikeri Dasara.
Talakaveri:
The place where the River Kaveri originates. The temple on the riverbanks here is dedicated to lord Brahma, and is one of only two temples dedicated to Brahma in India and Southeast Asia.Nisargadhama:
An island and picnic spot near Kushalanagara, formed by the river Kaveri.Iruppu Falls:
A sacred spot in south Kodagu in the Brahmagiri hill range. The Lakshmana Tirtha River flows nearby.Abbey Falls:
A scenic waterfall 5 km from Madikeri.Dubare:
Mainly an elephant-capturing and training camp of the Forest Department at the edge of Dubare forest; on the bank of the river Kaveri along the Kushalanagara - Siddapur road.Nagarahole:
A national park and wildlife resort.Bhagamandala:
Situated at the confluence of two rivers, the Kaveri and the Kanika. A third river, the Sujyothi, is said to join from underground.Dargah Sharief of Yemmemadu:
Dargah Sharief, the Holy Tomb, of Yemmemadu is one of the most sacred shrines for Muslims in Kodagu district. (35 km from Madikeri; Madikeri-Bettageri-Napoklu-Hale Taluku-Yemmemadu)Mandalapatti:
28 km from Madikeri. On the way to Abbey Falls, before 3 km from Abbey Falls take right, from there 25 km.Bijapur:
Bijapur is rich in historical attractions, mainly related to Islamic architecture, especially those of the Bijapur Fort.
Gol Gumbaz:
This is the most famous monument in Bijapur. It is the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah (ruled 1627-1657). It is the second largest dome ever built, next in size only to St Peter's Basilica in Rome.[citation needed] A particular attraction in this monument is the central chamber, where every sound is echoed seven times. Another attraction at the Gol Gumbaz is the Whispering Gallery, where even minute sounds can be heard clearly 37 metres away. Gol Gumbaz complex includes a mosque, a Naqqar Khana (a hall for the trumpeters) (Now it is used as museum) and the ruins of guest houses. We can see the rough model of golgumbaz in a village called Mahal. It is just 8 km from the golgumbaz.
Ibrahim Rauza:
This is the tomb of Ibrahim Adil Shah II (ruled 1580-1627), the fifth king of the dynasty and, like the Mughal emperor Akbar, known for religious tolerance. Built on a single rock bed, it is noted for the symmetry of its features. It is said that the design for the Ibrahim Rauza served as an inspiration for that of the famous Taj Mahal.
Malik-e-Maidan (The Monarch of the Plains):
The largest medieval cannon in the world. Being 4 m long, 1,5 m in diameter and weighing 55 tons, this gun was brought back from Ahmadnagar in the 17th century as a trophy of war by 400 oxen, 10 elephants and tens of men. It was placed on the Sherza Burj (Lion Gate) on a platform especially built for it. The cannon's nozzle is fashioned into the shape of a lion's head with open jaws & between the carved fangs is depicted an elephant being crushed to death. It is said that after igniting the cannon, the gunner would remain underwater in a tank of water on the platform to avoid the deafening explosion. The cannon remains cool even in strong sunlight and if tapped, tinkles like a bell. In 1854 the cannon was auctioned for Rs. 150 but the sale was cancelled in the end.
Upli Buruj:
Built around 1584 by Hyder Khan, is an 80 ft (24 m) high tower standing to the north of Dakhani Idgah in Bijapur. This is a spherical structure with stone steps winding round the outside. Top of the tower offers a commanding view of the city. This is also known as Hyder Burj, Upli Burj. On top of Upli Burj there are two guns of huge size. The parafeet this tower which was used for monitoring purposes has been fenced now. One needs to climb the circular stairs to reach the top. However except for this tower there is very little evidence of the citadel wall in this area due to rampant construction.
Chand Bawdi:
Ali Adil Shah (1557–1580) built this tank near eastern boundary of Bijapur. When there was large influx of people into Bijapur after the fall of the Vijayanagar empire, and new settlements came up within the walled city raising the need for better infrastructure and providing water supply. This has a storage capacity of 20 million litres. Later it became a model for many other tanks constructed in the city. A grandeur complex came up around it, which was mainly used to house the maintenance staff though members of the royal family occasionally used it for recreation. He named this after his wife "Chand Bibi".
Asar Mahal:
The Asar Mahal was built by Mohammed Adil Shah in about 1646, which was used to serve as a Hall of Justice. The building was also used to house hairs from the Prophet's beard. The rooms on the upper storey are decorated with frescoes and the front is graced with a square tank. Here women are not allowed inside. Every year there is urs (festival) held at this place. In front of the hall, one can see three tanks the bigger tank, which is at the centre is about 15 feet (4.6 m) deep however the other two are comparatively smaller in size as well as depth. Behind Asar Mahal one can still see the remain of the citadel. Just a kilometer away behind Asar Mahal, one can still find the old mosque which is on top of the citadel wall. There is a big entrance with arc below this mosque. Many stones have inscriptions. The site is under maintenance of Archeological Survey of India.
Gagan Mahal:
Which means Sky Palace, is built with a 21- meter façade and four wooden massive pillars, has a majestic central arch. Sikandar Adil Shah, in silver chains, surrendered to Aurangzeb in 1681 here.
Barakaman (Ali Roza-II):
A mausoleum of Ali Roza built in 1672. It was previously named as Ali Roza, but Shah Nawab Khan changed its name to Bara Kaman as this was the 12th monument during his reign. It has now seven arches and the tomb containing the graves of Ali, his queens and eleven other ladies possibly belonging to the Zenana of the queens.
Among the other historical attractions at Bijapur, some notable ones are the Anand Mahal, Jod Gumbaz, Jumma Mosque, Sat Manzil, and Jal Manzil. Also among old houses at Bijapur, the most famous is Elavia House ( Nauzer Elavia) which is more than 100 years old.
Saat Kabar:
Meaning sixty graves, is a site which can aptly be called as the 'dark tourist spot'. Saat Kabar may not have any intricate or wonderful architectural characteristics like the Gol Gumbaz or Ibrahim Roza to offer to its visitors, but the heart-rending story it narrates makes it a spot worth visiting. This heritage site tells the story of a passionate army chief who killed his 63 wives fearing they would remarry after his death. Afzal Khan, the army chief of Ali Adil Shah II of the Adil Shahi Dynasty that ruled Bijapur for four centuries, cold bloodedly murdered all his wives, one by one, before setting out on a battle with Chatrapati Shivaji, the great Maratha warrior, at Pratapgad in Maharashtra in 1659. Sick of continuous attacks by Aurangzeb on one side and Shivaji on the other side, Ali Adil Shahi-II ordered Afzal Khan to contain these two enemies to protect the empire. Although known for his bravery, Khan was a firm believer in astrology. He always consulted soothsayers before setting out on a war. When an astrologer predicted about his defeat and sure death in the battle against Shivaji, he decided to kill all his wives so that they would not remarry after his death. Hence he led all his wives to a huge well in a lonely place on the outskirts of the city and pushed them into it one after another. Later, he buried their bodies near the well. Seeing this horrifying act, two of his wives tried to escape, but in vain. They were chased and killed by soldiers, reveal historical records.
Lord Shiva Statue:
The 85-foot tall statue of Lord Shiva installed by the T.K. Patil Banakatti Charitable Trust in Bijapur at Shivapur on Sindagi Road is gradually developing as a pilgrimage place.1,500 tonnes statue considered as the second biggest statue of Lord Shiva in the country was prepared by sculptors from Shimoga for more than 13 months and the civilian design was provided by Bangalore-based architects. The statue weighs around 1,500 tonnes.
Torvi Narasimha Temple:
Torvi is located merely 5 km from Bijapur. The Narasimha temple, which is built underground is very close to Adil Shahi's Sangeeth mahal. Nearby this temple, another Hindu temple of Devi Lakshmi is located. The people of Bijapur have a trend to visit these temples every Saturday.
Hampi:
Important sites at and near Hampi:
- Achyutaraya Temple/Tiruvengalanatha Temple
- Akka Tangi Gudda
- Anegondi
- Anjeyanadri Hill
- Aqueducts and Canals
- Archaeological Museum at Kamalapura
- Badava Linga
- Chandramauleshwar Temple
- The Kings’ balance
- The Underground Temple
- Tungabhadra River
- Uddana Veerabhadra temple
- Ugra Narasimha
- Virupaksha Temple
- Vittala temple
- Yeduru Basavanna
- Yentrodharaka Anjaneya temple
- Zenana enclosure
- Virupapura
- Madhavan Palace with more than 1,000,000 pillars
- Sasivekalu Ganesha
- Elephant stables
- Lotus temple
Temples in Hampi:
Hampi has various notable Hindu temples, some of which are still active places of worship. Among the most notable are:
Virupaksha Temple known as the Pampapathi temple, it is a Shiva temple situated in the Hampi Bazaar. It predates the founding of the Vijayanagar empire. The temple has a 160-foot (49 m) high tower at its entrance. Apart from Shiva, the temple complex also contains shrines of the Hindu goddesses Bhuvaneshwari and Pampa.
Hazara Rama Temple Complex : This ruined temple complex is well-known for elaborate frescos from Hindu Mythologies and a sprawling courtyard well-laid with gardens.
Krishna Temple Complex : This temple complex has been recently excavated through the last decade, and restoration work is still in progress.
Vittala Temple Complex : This is perhaps the most famous and well-known among the ruins of Hampi. The iconic stone chariot in the vicinity of this temple complex is a symbol of Karnataka Tourism. Off late, floodlights have been installed in the temple complex that provide illumination at dusk, thereby adding to the grandeur of the architecture.
Bangalore:
Though historical references to the city predate AD 900, a modern written history of continuous settlement exists only from 1537, when Kempe Gowda I, a vassal of the imperial Vijayanagara Empire built a mud-brick fort at the site and established it as a province of the empire. During the British Raj, it became a centre of colonial rule in South India. The establishment of the Bangalore Cantonment brought in large numbers of migrants from other parts of the country.
Today as a large city and growing metropolis, Bangalore is home to many of the most well-recognized colleges and research institutions in India. Numerous public sector heavy industries, software companies, aerospace, telecommunications, and defence organisations are located in the city. Bangalore is known as the Silicon Valley of India because of its position as the nation's leading IT exporter. A demographically diverse city, Bangalore is a major economic and cultural hub and the fastest growing major metropolis in India.
Mangalore:
Mangalore is one of the largest cities in Karnataka state in India, this city is in coastal line of Arabian Sea. Some of the main goods are exporting and importing from ports of Mangalore. Churches, Temples and Beaches, Ports are the major attraction in this city. Mangalore is famous for its Sea Food and jasmine known for its unique aroma.
Water Falls in Karnataka:
- Abbey Falls
- Abbi Falls
- Achakanya Falls
- Alekhan Falls
- Balmuri Falls
- Bandaaje Arbi Falls
- Banni Waterfall
- Barkana Waterfalls
- Benne Hole Falls
- Bharachukki Waterfalls
- Burude Falls
- Chunchanakatte Falls
- Chunchi Falls
- Dabbe Falls
- Dodmane Falls
- Dondole Falls
- Gaganachukki Waterfalls
- Gerosappa Waterfalls
- Godachinamalki Falls
- Gokak Falls
- Hanuman Gundi Falls
- Hebbe Falls
- Hemagiri Waterfall
- Hogenekkal Falls
- Honnamma Falls
- Honnemaradu Falls
- Illimane Falls
- Iruppu Waterfall
- Irupu Falls
- Jog Falls
- Jogada Gundi
- Kalhatta Giri Falls
- Kalhatti Waterfall
- Kallathigiri Falls
- Koodlu Theertha Falls
- Koosalli Waterfall
- Kudumari Falls
- Kunchikal Falls
- Lalguli Falls
- Lushington Falls
- Unchalli Falls
- Magod Falls
- Magodu Falls
- Mallalli Waterfall
- Manikyadhara Waterfall
- Muthyala Maduvu
- Muthyala Madu Falls
- Nisargadhama Falls
- Sathodi Falls
- Satodi Waterfall
- Shivaganga Falls
- Shivanasamudram Falls
- Sogal Falls
- Sootanabbi
- Srimane Waterfalls
- Thottikallu Falls
- T K Falls
- Ulavi Falls
- Varapoha Falls
- Viboothi Falls
- Vibhooti Falls
- Watta Halla Falls
- Waate Hole Waterfall
- Yana Falls
Botanical Gardens, Amusement and Entertainment Park in Karnataka:
- Lalbagh, Bangalore
- Brindavan Gardens
- Cubbon Park, Bangalore
- Zoological Gardens, Mysore
- Wonder La, Bidadi, Bengaluru
- Planet X, Mysore
- Innovative Filmcity, Bidadi
- Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore
- Grs Water Park, Mysore
Forts in Karnataka:
- Anegondi Fort
- Belgaum Fort
- Bidar Fort
- Bijapur Fort
- Chitradurga Fort
- Gulbarga Fort
- Jamalabad Fort
- Kavaledurga Fort
- Kittur Fort
- Madhugiri Fort
- Manjarabad Fort
- Manzarabad Fort
- Midigeshi Fort
- Nandi Hill Fort
- Nargund Fort
- Parasgad Fort
- Pavagada Fort
- Sandur Fort
- Saundatti Fort
- Savanadurga Fort
- Shahapur Fort
- Shorapur Fort
- Sravanadurga Fort
- Srirangapatana Fort
- Ucchangi Fort
- Vallabhgad Fort
- Vijayanagar Fort
Lakes in Karnataka:
- Belgaum Lake
- Bellandur Lake
- Hebbal Lake
- Hesaraghatta Lake
- Jarganhalli Lake
- Kamakshipalya Lake
- Lalbagh Lake
- Madiwala Lake
- Nagavara Lake
- Puttenahalli Lake
- Sankey Tank
- Ulsoor Lake
- Vengaihnakere Lake
Art and culture of Karnataka:
Karnataka also has a special place in the world of Indian classical music with both Karnataka (Carnatic) and Hindustani styles finding place in the state and Karnataka has produced a number of stalwarts in both styles. While referring to music the word 'Karnataka', the original name given to the South Indian classical music does not mean the state of Karnataka. The Haridasa movement of the sixteenth century contributed seminally to the development of Karnataka (Carnatic) music as a performing art form. Purandara Dasa, one of the most revered Haridasas, is known as the Karnataka Sangeeta Pitamaha ('Father of Karnataka a.k.a.Carnatic music'). Celebrated Hindustani musicians like Gangubai Hangal, Mallikarjun Mansur, Bhimsen Joshi, Basavaraja Rajaguru, Sawai Gandharva and several others hail from Karnataka and some of them have been recipients of the Kalidas Samman, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan awards.
Saree is the traditional dress of women in Karnataka. Women in Kodagu have a distinct style of wearing the saree, different from the rest of Karnataka. Dhoti, known as Panche in Karnataka is the traditional attire of men. Shirt, Trousers and Salwar kameez are widely worn in Urban areas. Mysore peta is the traditional headgear of southern Karnataka, while the pagadi or pataga (similar to the Rajasthani turban) is preferred in the northern areas of the state.
Rice and Ragi form the staple food in South Karnataka, whereas Jolada rotti, Sorghum is staple to North Karnataka. Bisi bele bath, Jolada rotti, Ragi mudde, Uppittu, Masala Dose and Maddur Vade are some of the popular food items in Karnataka. Among sweets, Mysore Pak, Belgaavi Kunda, Gokak karadantu, and Dharwad pedha are popular. Apart from this, coastal Karnataka and Kodagu have distinctive cuisines of their own. Udupi cuisine of coastal Karnataka is popular all over India.
Education in Karnataka:
As per the 2001 census, Karnataka had a literacy rate of 67.04%, with 76.29% of males and 57.45% of females in the state being literate. The state is home to some of the premier educational and research institutions of India such as the Indian Institute of Science, the Indian Institute of Management, the National Institute of Technology Karnataka and the National Law School of India University.
As of March 2006, Karnataka had 54,529 primary schools with 252,875 teachers and 8.495 million students, and 9498 secondary schools with 92,287 teachers and 1.384 million students. There are three kinds of schools in the state, viz., government-run, private aided (financial aid is provided by the government) and private unaided (no financial aid is provided). The primary languages of instruction in most schools are Kannada and English. The syllabus taught in the schools is either of the CBSE, the ICSE or the state syllabus (SSLC) defined by the Department of Public Instruction of the Government of Karnataka.
However, some schools follows NIOS syllabus. The State has one Sainik School in Bijapur also. In order to maximize attendance in schools, the Karnataka Government has launched a mid-day meal scheme in government and aided schools in which free lunch is provided to the students. Statewide board examinations are conducted at the end of the period of secondary education and students who qualify are allowed to pursue a two-year pre-university course; after which students become eligible to pursue under-graduate degrees.
There are 481 degree colleges affiliated with one of the universities in the state, viz. Bangalore University, Gulbarga University, Karnatak University, Kuvempu University, Mangalore University and Mysore University, In 1998, the engineering colleges in the state were brought under the newly formed Visvesvaraya Technological University headquartered at Belgaum, whereas the medical colleges are run under the jurisdiction of the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences. Some of these baccalaureate colleges are accredited with the status of a deemed university. There are 123 engineering, 35 medical and 40 dental colleges in the state. Udupi, Sringeri, Gokarna and Melkote are well-known places of Sanskrit and Vedic learning. An Indian Institute of Technology Muddenahalli has been approved by the central government as part of the 11th 5 year plan. This will be the first IIT in Karnataka State. In addition, a 600 crore Visvesvaraya Institute of Advanced Technology (VIAT) is being constructed in Muddenahalli-Kanivenarayanapura.
Tulu Language is taught as an optional subject in the twin districts of South Canara and Udupi.
Sports in Karnataka:
Karnataka's smallest district, Kodagu, is a major contributor to Indian field hockey, producing numerous players who have represented India at the international level. The annual Kodava Hockey Festival is the largest hockey tournament in the world. Bangalore has hosted a WTA tennis event and, in 1997, it hosted the fourth National Games of India. The Sports Authority of India, the premier sports institute in the country, and the Nike Tennis Academy are also situated in Bangalore.
Karnataka has been referred to as the cradle of Indian swimming because of its high standards in comparison to other states.
One of the most popular sports in Karnataka is cricket. The state cricket team has won the Ranji Trophy six times, second only to Mumbai in terms of success. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore regularly hosts international matches and is also the home of the National Cricket Academy, which was opened in 2000 to nurture potential international players. Many cricketers have represented India and in one international match held in the 1990s; players from Karnataka composed the majority of the national team.
The Karnataka Premier League, an inter-regional Twenty20 cricket tournament is a cricket tournament played in the state. The Royal Challengers Bangalore, an Indian Premier League franchise, is based in Bangalore.
Sports like kho kho, kabaddi, chinni daandu and goli (marbles) are played mostly in Karnataka's rural areas.Notable sportsmen from Karnataka include Prakash Padukone who won the All England Badminton Championships in 1980 and Pankaj Advani who has won three world titles in cue sports by the age of 20 including the amateur World Snooker Championship in 2003 and the World Billiards Championship in 2005.
Cycling talent of Karnataka needs a special mention. Off late Bijapur district has produced some of the best known Road Cyclists in the national circuit. Premalata Sureban was part of the Indian contingent at the Perlis Open '99 in Malaysia. In recognition of the talent of cyclists in the district, the State Government has already laid a cycling track at the B.R. Ambedkar Stadium here, spending Indian Rs. 40 lakh.
Wildlife of Karnataka:
Karnataka has a rich diversity of flora and fauna. It has a recorded forest area of 38,720 km2 (14,950 sq mi) which constitutes 20.19% of the total geographical area of the state. These forests support 25% of the elephant and 10% of the tiger population of India. Many regions of Karnataka are as yet unexplored, so new species of flora and fauna are found periodically. The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, includes the western region of Karnataka. Two sub-clusters in the Western Ghats, viz. Talacauvery and Kudremukh, both in Karnataka, are on the tentative list of World Heritage Sites of UNESCO. The Bandipur and Nagarahole National Parks, which fall outside these subclusters, were included in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in 1986, a UNESCO designation. The Indian roller and the Indian elephant are recognized as the state bird and animal while sandalwood and the lotus are recognized as the state tree and flower respectively. Karnataka has five national parks: Anshi, Bandipur, Bannerghatta, Kudremukh and Nagarhole. It also has 25 wildlife sanctuaries of which seven are bird sanctuaries.
Wild animals that are found in Karnataka include the elephant, the tiger, the leopard, the gaur, the sambar deer, the chital or spotted deer, the muntjac, the bonnet macaque, the slender loris, the common palm civet, the small Indian civet, the sloth bear, the dhole, the striped hyena and the golden jackal. Some of the birds found here are the Great Hornbill, the Malabar Pied Hornbill, the Ceylon frogmouth, herons, ducks, kites, eagles, falcons, quails, partridges, lapwings, sandpipers, pigeons, doves, parakeets, cuckoos, owls, nightjars, swifts, kingfishers, bee-eaters and munias. Some species of trees found in Karnataka are Callophyllum tomentosa, Callophyllum wightianum, Garcina cambogia, Garcina morealla, Alstonia scholaris, Flacourtia montana, Artocarpus hirsutus, Artocarpus lacoocha, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Grewia tilaefolia, Santalum album, Shorea talura, Emblica officinalis, Vitex altissima and Wrightia tinctoria. Wildlife in Karnataka is threatened by poaching, habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict and pollution.
Tourism Offices in Karnataka:
Director, Dept of Tourism, 1st Floor, F Bk, Cauvery Bhavan, K.G.Road Bangalore - 9
KSTDC, 104/1, Kasturba Road, Bangalore -1
Tourism Information Counter, Railway Station, Bangalore
Tourism Information Counter, Airport, Bangalore, Karnataka
Manager,Tourist Cottages, Belur, Karnataka
Tourist Cottages, Dept of Tourism, Halebid, Karnataka