Karnataka
Making for a spectacular photo opportunity, the epic seashore statue of Lord Shiva, which sits looking over the Arabian Sea, is a worthwhile stop for…
Must-see attractions in Karnataka
Hampi
To the south, overlooking Virupaksha Temple, Hemakuta Hill has a scattering of early ruins, including monolithic sculptures of Narasimha (Vishnu in his…
Mysuru (Mysore)
Life in the devout Hindu town of Melukote (Melkote), about 50km north of Mysuru, revolves around the 12th-century Cheluvanarayana Temple, with its rose…
Karnataka
Upli Buruj is a 16th-century, 24m-high watchtower near the western walls of the city. An external flight of stairs leads to the top, where you’ll find two…
Mysuru (Mysore)
The beauty of towering St Philomena’s Cathedral, built between 1933 and 1941 in neo-Gothic style, is emphasised by its wonderful stained-glass windows. It…
Kodagu (Coorg) Region
A spectacular sight after the rainy season, these 21.3m-high falls can pack a punch.
Karnataka
This large Sikh temple on the northwestern side of town is dedicated to the Guru Nanak and was built in 1948. It's centred on the Amrit Kund (a water tank…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Atmospheric cathedral built in 1812 with a distinctive domed roof based on St Paul's Cathedral in London. Check out the entrance's ornate carvings. There…
Karnataka
An ancient shrine close to Anegundi village that's worth a visit. The journey from Anegundi is very beautiful, through classic Hampi terrain of ochre…
Mangaluru (Mangalore)
The only remnant of Tipu Sultan’s fort is this small lookout with views over scenic backwaters. It’s 4km from the city centre on the headland of the old…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Here you can see several works by and some personal memorabilia of K Venkatappa (1887–1962), court painter to the Wodeyars (erstwhile maharajas of the…
Hampi
Part of Hampi's Zenana Enclosure, this delicately designed pavilion was supposedly the queen’s recreational mansion.
Karnataka
Adjacent to Hoysaleswara Temple is this small museum, with a collection of beautiful sculptures from around Halebid.
Mysuru (Mysore)
At the summit of Chamundi Hill, the striking Sri Chamundeswari Temple is dominated by a towering 40m-high gopuram (entrance gateway).
Karnataka
For the best views of Murudeshwar, head up the skyscaper-like Shri Murudeshwar temple via its lift for fantastic coastal panoramas.
Mysuru (Mysore)
Dating from 1805, Government House, formerly the British Residency, is a Tuscan Doric building set in 20 hectares of gardens.
Kodagu (Coorg) Region
A very popular spot to enjoy sunset, as the raja himself did, with fantastic outlooks to rolling hills and endless valleys.
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
The elegant Indo-Islamic summer residence of ruler Tipu Sultan is notable for its teak pillars and ornamental frescos.
Karnataka
This lively market is an explosion of colour and scent, with flowers, spices and fresh produce for sale.
Hampi
Features exquisite carvings that depict scenes from the Ramayana, and polished black-granite pillars.
Gokarna
A large temple tank where locals, pilgrims and immaculately dressed Brahmins perform their ablutions.
Karnataka
In the southeastern corner of town, this is Sravanabelagola’s largest temple.
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
The private residence of the Wodeyars, erstwhile maharajas of the state, Bangalore Palace preserves a slice of bygone royal splendour. You can view the …
Karnataka
The Nandi Hills, topping out at 1455m, were once the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan. Situated 60km north of Bengaluru, the region is now a popular day-trip…
Mysuru (Mysore)
If you’re familiar with Bollywood, these ornamental gardens might just give you a sense of déjá vu – they’ve been the backdrop to many a shimmying musical…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
In an imposing red colonial-era building dating from 1877 you’ll find a dusty, neglected collection of ancient stone carvings and artefacts excavated from…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
This ruined 1761 fort, with a manicured lawn and pink stone walls, is a peaceful escape from the chaotic city surrounds. The fort remained in use until…
Kodagu (Coorg) Region
At the bottom of the region's highest peak, Tadiyendamol (1745m), is Nalakunad Palace, the former hunting lodge of a Kodagu king dating from 1794. There…
Gokarna
Gokarna’s main town beach isn’t clean and isn't good for casual bathing. The main section is popular with domestic tourists, but if you walk away from…
Karnataka
In the southwest of the city, off Bagalkot Rd, stand the twin Jod Gumbad tombs, with handsome bulbous domes. An Adil Shahi general and his spiritual…
Mysuru (Mysore)
This well-maintained nature park is the place to spy on various bird species, including herons, rose-ringed parakeets and painted storks, and many…
Mysuru (Mysore)
A well-managed zoo set in pretty gardens. Highlights include white tigers, lowland gorillas, giraffes, African elephants, chimpanzees and rhinos. It’s…
Mysuru (Mysore)
Facing the north gate of Mysuru Palace, this striking clock tower dates from 1927. Constructed in Indo-Saracenic style, it's 24m tall and its clock face…
Choukhandi Hazrat Khalil Ullah
Karnataka
Located 500m from the Bahmani Tombs is the serene mausoleum of Hazrat Khalil Ullah. An uncanny air of calm hangs within the monument, and its polygonal…
Karnataka
Constructed in 894, this attractive Vaishnavite temple has a mix of Hoysala and Vijayanagar design. Within are cavernous walkways, pillars and the…
Karnataka
This cream-coloured mosque with two minarets was built by Tipu Sultan in 1787 and features an interesting blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture. Climb…
Karnataka
Within the citadel are the graceful arches of Bara Kaman, the ruined mausoleum of Ali Adil Shah II (Ali Roza). The structure was never finished, and dates…
Karnataka
The northeastern ruins of the fort make for an interesting walk around, looking out to the Cauvery River. All but hidden in the undulating terrain is this…
Karnataka
Houses an eclectic collection of Indian stone and metal sculptures, jewellery, local craft products, cameras and stamps. It's opposite the Manjunatha…
