Beautiful Karnataka

 

BEAUTIFUL KARNATAKA

Karnataka was one of the first South India states I have visited in my childhood and its memories will forever remain special to me. My parents planned a trip covering all the important parts of this state and my favorite being Mysore.

I can still remember the amazing and royal palaces there with gold thrones and ornaments. My eyes were in shock as I saw so much of royalty at once despite being from the state of Rajasthan. Recently I visited Bangalore and planned few road trips from there to explore this belt further. As I thought this place has so much to offer for a traveler so I am already planning my next Karnataka Trip.

State introduction – Karnataka

Karnataka is a southwestern Indian state with parts of it on the Arabian Sea. Bengaluru (Bangalore) is the capital of the state world famous for its vibrant nightlife and shopping.

Karnataka is the fourth most popular tourist destination due to its history and beautiful landscape. It has an abundance of the eye-catching hill station and mountain ranges, beaches, forests, waterfalls, wildlife, temples, buzzing cities and waterfalls. The Western Ghats have preferred destination for the backpackers and falls in Malenadu region which offers spectacular hilly views. You have to plan a road trip there to see this side of India. It is truly BEAUTIFUL. The Karavali or Kanara is the coastal region linked to the Arabian Sea. Deccan plateau region has another landscape to offer in Bayaluseeme which is largely a plain region.

Mysore is one of the most beautiful location with rich architectural temples also called the City of Palaces. The historical princely state Mysore Palace is an official residence and seat of the rulers (royal family) of Mysore (1399-1950) also a seat to the Wodeyars. Mysore is also called the City of Palaces as it has seven magnificent palaces in total.

National Parks Amongst the 25 wildlife sanctuaries and 5 national parks the most popular ones are Bannerghatta National park, Nagarhole National Park, and Bandipur National Park.

Kudremukh waterfall in Chikmagalur in Karnataka state is considered to be one of the “1001 natural wonders of the World.”

Monuments Included in the list of the UNESCO’s World heritage sites are the monuments of Pattadakal and the ruins of Vijayanagara Empire. Situated in Belur and Halebidu are Hoysala temples built in soapstone are proposed UNESCO World Heritage sites.  Don’t miss to visit Hampi another UNESCO world heritage site.

Vijaypur / Bijapur – This place offers one of the best architecture locations. Examples of the Deccan Sultanate can be found in the architectural style of Gol Gumbaz and Ibrahim Rauza. One can keep taking pictures of these monuments and keep revisiting. Such a refreshing place for history and architecture lovers.

Amazing temples – The Mallikarjuna temple and Kashi Vishwanatha temple at Pattadakal is an experience one cannot forget. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The monolith of Jain Lord Bahubali at Shravanbelgola is known for being the tallest sculpted monolith in the world that attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists. If possible do plan your trip during the spectacular Mahamastakabhisheka festival once every twelve years.

Coorg / Kodagu is a rural district of south-west Karnataka and is known for its breathtaking beauty. it has become a famous tourist destination and much recommended.Madikeri Fort, Abbi falls, Rajas Tomb are other places often visited by backpackers. Hindu pilgrim also plans a trip to Omnkareshwar temples here. The Namdroling Monastery is a Buddhist monastery found near Coorg. One can participate in white water rafting at Barapole river here.Trekking is also a preferred option here for travelers.

The good news is that there is Golden Chariot train too which connects all the major tourist spots in Karnataka with Goa .

Karanataka is well connected by modes of transport like rail, air, road and buses and a tourist friendly state. This state has a charm to it and keeps calling back the visitors to experience the same.