Karnataka is blessed with some of Nature's best creations. Some of the places are widely recognised while some of them are rather unexplored. However, that does not mean these places don't have much to offer. The state has some of the best forests, hills, temples, caves, beaches, riversides, lakes, plantations, waterfalls, ruins etc. Karnataka has been the centre of cultural activities and the place has several mentions throughout our historical and religious texts. The Karnataka is locked between Kannad Coast, the Western Ghats, and Deccan Plateau which gives it some of the best sites and views which are loved by tourists and they flock in huge numbers to witness the beauty that this state beholds. So if you are pretty confused right now about where to go, just hang and find out. we have compiled a list of 5 best places to visit in Karnataka.
1. Bangalore
What comes to your mind when we talk about Bangalore? Amazing weather, long drives, big corporate giants, traffic etcetera, etcetera. A diverse blend of people from all parts of India, all living peacefully in the Garden city. We already talked about the 10 places that are just a day-long drive away from Bangalore and the 7 most amazing roadside cafe's you need to check out in Bangalore when on your next road trip. Not just that, the city has a multitude of spots within city confines that offer several fun filled adventure opportunities to residents and visitors alike. The Wonderla water park, Go Karting, Micro flight, Snow city, Lazer house and much more. All these places are inside the city boundaries or very close to the city so if you want to have fun without travelling a lot you can surely hit these places. Just tag along with your friends, family or your loved one and we are sure you would be left wanting for more at the end of the day. Couples, there are a lot of spots in the city where you can have a gala time with your partner so book hotels in Bangalore and have a great time exploring these wonderful places.
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2. Badami
Badami was the capital city of the once most powerful rulers in the south, The Chalukyas. At a staggering 219 km from Hyderabad, this place in Karnataka will surely amaze you. The landscape reminds you of the ancient history this city possesses with its numerous temples beautifully carved in Dravidian architecture and also carrying fine imprints of North Indian architecture. The cave temples are one of the tourist magnets and houses three Hindu Temples and one Jain Temple. The beautiful Agastya lake lies amidst the valley of rugged red sandstone and is such a beauty that you will rarely get to see anywhere else. This place is a delight for those who love old and ancient monuments with its numerous temples, forts, palaces all carved in red sandstone. Badami is declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Bagalkot district in Karnataka. This place is a reminder of the architectural style of south Indian rulers which can be seen in the multiple temples here. Adventure lovers can also indulge in rock climbing here. If you are visiting Karnataka with your partner, you can make your stay in Bangalore economical and safe by booking hotels by the hour and the hotels for unmarried couples in Bangalore.
3. Nandi Hills – The Picture-perfect Health Resort
Nandi hills can easily be called the number 1 weekend destination for the people of Bangalore and it also quite famous in Karnataka. Swaths of bike riders and tourists can be seen flocking the 60 km long drive along the beautiful NH-7 every weekend that too early in the morning. Couples, this could be the perfect long ride with your love, so get out of your hotel rooms in Bangalore and reach the spot in wee hours to catch a glimpse of the best sunrise that you would have ever seen. The hilltop has several shrines, monuments with brilliantly carved arches and huge pillars that make the view on top even more magnificent. You can only witness the beauty to comprehend its depth and understand why it is called the "Hillocks borrowed from heaven".
4. Kudremukh – A Picture Perfect Place to be Visited
Kudremukh is one of the most popular adventures and trekking spot. Located 329 km from Bangalore, 67 from Sringeri and at an elevation of 1894 m from ground level, this is one of the highest peaks of the western ghats. Kudremukh peak lies inside the national park and therefore it requires a permit signed by the RFO of Kudremukh town before going for the trek. You also might need to check with the RFO about camping since it is allowed only in some seasons. Among the several well-known routes, the Samse-Mullodi route is the most preferred by the trekkers. Mullodi is a small settlement at a distance of 12 km from Kudremukh via Samse. Some people also start the trek from Samse itself which lies 4 km before Mullodi. It takes around 5 hrs from Mullodi to cover this 14 km long trek. You can easily set up camp at the top and spend the night in nature's lap or you may have to return to the Mullodi village at dusk if camping is not allowed around that time.
5. Agumbe
Agumbe is a beautiful hill station located in Shimoga district in Karnataka. Agumbe Hill is one of the four peaks in the Western Ghats that borders the mainland and divides it from the coast. It is located at a distance of 345 km from Bangalore and 100 km from Mangalore. Agumbe has rich biodiversity and is one of the last lowland rain forests. It recieves heavy rainfall all round the year. It is also referred to as Hasiru Honnu which translates to Green Gold. Several rare medicinal plants are found in these hills. India's only Rainforest Research Station is located in these dense forests. Agumbe has several hills, rivers, streams hidden amidst the dense forest and is home to a plethora of animal and bird species. Reptiles are found in the majority here and it is also known as the home of the mighty King Cobra. Talking about tourist attractions, it is famous for its sunset viewpoint on one of the highest peaks of the Western Ghats from where the sun can be seen descending into the Arabian sea at the horizon. The extensive rains have blessed this region with some of the most amazing waterfalls which makes this hilly area a tourist destination for trekkers and campers. The Jogi Gundi Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls, Jomlu Theertha Falls, Kudlu Theertha Falls, Narasimha Parvatha trek, Kunchikal Falls are some of the attractions to name a few. Best time to visit Agumbe is from November to February when rainfall is minimal. The serenity of this place will definitely spark the love among love birds. If you are just reaching Bangalore, just book a hotel in Bangalore, there are a lot of couple friendly hotels in Bangalore. Make sure your hotel is a 24 hour check in hotel.
These are some of the most beautiful and amazing places in Karnataka where you can have an awesome weekend or even an extended holiday on the hill stations. Karnataka offers even more to its visitors that has not been covered in this blog. So go out there and start exploring this beautiful state.
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