Karnataka perfectly balances the old and the new, from exploring the beautiful hill stations of Coorg surrounded by sprawling coffee plantations to visiting the mystical ruins of Hampi. Travelers also love soaking up the sun on the beaches of Gokarna or even visiting Chikmagalur for a laid-back feel, nature walks, and treks.
With so much to explore in Karnataka, most first-time travelers often get confused as to which are the best destinations that they should add to their bucket list. Below are some of the top places to visit in Karnataka, let us guide you through it.
Best Tourist Places in Karnataka for 3 days
Whether you prefer to visit tourist places in Karnataka for 3 days or 7 days, the scenic waterfalls, lush coffee estates, and rich heritage will stay with you long after you leave.
The best time to visit Karnataka depends on the kind of traveler you are. Whether you’re seeking rainy adventures, history, and culture, or sun-kissed beaches, there is a place you will love.
Here’s a handy guide on the top 10 tourist places in Karnataka that you should check out.
For Reconnecting and Recharging in Karnataka
1. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is one of the most picturesque hill stations known for its misty landscapes, coffee plantations, and pleasant weather. This location is ideal to soak up some rich history and unique culture.
Coorg offers several popular locations, such as the Namdroling Monastery, the serene Dubare Elephant Camp, Abbey Falls, Tadiandamol Peak, and beautiful Tibetan architecture.
How to reach: You can take a train from Mysore Railway Station or fly from Mangalore International Airport.
2. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
A haven for wildlife and nature lovers, Bandipur National Park offers jungle safari and village tours where you can enjoy birdwatching and explore the beauty of the jungle.
Located in South Karnataka, this is the perfect area for tiger conservation and visitors can also spot the Asiatic wild elephant, jackals, leopards, and around 200 species of birds.
How to reach: You can take a train from Mysore Junction or even drive from Mysore, Bangalore, or Ooty.
3. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Popularly known for its lush coffee plantations, Chikmagalur is known as the birthplace of coffee in India. This picturesque town is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka and offers several sightseeing opportunities like the serene Baba Budangiri Hills, Mullayanagiri Peak, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
Look for Karnataka tour packages that allow you to explore waterfalls, go trekking, or take a walk through the coffee plantations.
How to reach: Travelers can take a train from the Kadur and Hassan railway stations or travel by flight from Mangalore Airport.
For History Buffs in Karnataka
1. Hampi, Karnataka
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, Hampi is a treasure trove of history and architecture. This location offers a vast open-air museum of ruins, temples, and monuments along with the popular Vittala Temple, and Virupaksha Temple.
Travelers also come here to see the popular Hampi Bazaar, Matanga Hill, and the Lotus Mahal.
How to reach: You can get to Hampi by air from Hubli Airport or travel by train from Hospet Junction.
2. Badami, Karnataka
One of the best places for those who want to explore the famous temples in Karnataka. Badami is well-known for striking and exquisitely carved cave temples. You can also find age-old ruins, striking sculptures, and even images of prominent Hindu Gods like Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
Travelers also come here to explore the Archaeological Museum, Jain temples, and the man-made Agasthya Thirtha reservoir.
How to reach: Like Hampi, you can reach Badami by air from Hubli Airport or travel by train from Hospet Junction.
3. Aihole, Karnataka
Aihole in Karnataka is a site of historical significance and showcases a lot of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain heritage sites such as temples, caves, and monuments.
Travelers can visit the famous Durga Temple and explore the Ravana Phadi Cave.
How to reach: Aihole has only a road network, so travelers take a train from nearby places like Bagalkot and Goa and then travel by road.
For Spirituality in Karnataka
1. Murudeshwara, Karnataka
Situated on the beautiful coast, Murudeshwara showcases the gigantic Shiva Shrine which is visible from afar. Along with visiting this shrine, travelers can also check out the Murudeshwar beach and Fort along with the serene beach.
How to reach: Visitors can reach Murudeshwar by air from Mangalore International Airport, or by train from major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Mangalore.
2. Omkareshwara Temple, Karnataka
This very old temple in Coorg is one of the most popular sightseeing places and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Travelers can visit the temple and check out the various sightseeing spots like the Raja Seat, Madikeri Fort, and even Abbey Falls.
How to reach: You can visit this temple from the Indore and Ujjain Airport or simply catch a train from Omkareshwar Road Railway Station.
3. Gomatagiri, Karnataka
One of the famous tourist places in Karnataka, Gomatagiri is renowned for the 700-year-old statue of Bahubali erected atop a 50-meter-tall hillock. This location also offers several other temples and is an important place of worship for Jains.
Don’t miss the annual Mahamastakabhisheka that attracts many pilgrims.
How to reach: Visitors can drive from Mysore or Coorg. You can even opt for a bus service that will take you to this locality.
4. Shravanabelagola, Karnataka
Shravanabelagola showcases the towering statue of Bahubali which stands 58 feet tall. Along with this statue, travelers can also visit the Chandragupta Basadi, the Chandragiri Hill, the Akkana Basadi, and the Kambadahalli.
How to reach: You can drive from Bangalore to Shravanabelagola or even go by train.
Things to Do at the Top 10 Tourist Places in Karnataka
Along with visiting the best places in Karnataka, this state offers a host of bustling markets and breezy pubs with delicious craft brews. Here’s our pick of the best, locally approved experiences to add to your bucket list.
1. Take a walk around Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park offers the most diverse set of flora and fauna. This has led a lot of people to come here for picnics, leisurely strolls, book clubs, treks, and even yoga sessions. You can also see the famed cherry blossoms in full bloom in the spring.
2. Drive up to Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is just as beautiful as the picturesque hill stations in South India. This location offers a misty atmosphere, and travelers can drive up here and enjoy a cup of coffee before heading back to the city. You can even explore the vineyards for a day of wine tours.
3. Shop at Commercial Street
One of the oldest, busiest shopping districts in the city, Commercial Street showcases lanes of stunning jewelry, quirky souvenirs, and bits and bobs that you can buy. Travelers should also try the street food which is quite famous in this area.
Enjoy the Top 10 Tourist Places in Karnataka with Us
If you are keen to discover the top 10 tourist places in Karnataka, Anubhav Vacations is the right choice. Our travel experts can suggest the perfect tour to cover most of the destinations listed here. Whether you want to enjoy tourist places in Karnataka for 3 days or longer, we have a perfectly curated itinerary for you.