New Delhi: Karnataka, the fourth most visited state in the nation, offers a wide variety of things. It stretches from Belgaum in the north to Bangalore in the south and is truly a world unto itself. It has something to offer everyone, from stunning scenery to a rich cultural past, peaceful beaches and delectable food. 


There are tonnes of tourist attractions in Karnataka. It offers several picturesque locations, including lakes, hills, waterfalls, and forests. You may take in breathtaking vistas of gorgeous beaches, riverbanks, and coffee plantations. So, if you're making travel plans, here are some must-visit places in Karnataka.


1. Mysore:


Mysore is renowned for its architecture, silk saree industry, yoga, and sandalwood. Mysore Palace is a famous tourist spot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every chamber is embellished with elaborate features, lovely murals, and stained-glass windows and is an example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The palace is illuminated at night on Sundays and during Dussehra festivities.


Another well-known attraction in Mysore is the Ashtanga School of Yoga. It draws tourists and professionals from all over the world.


 



Mysore Palace (Image Source: Getty)


2. Hampi:


Hampi is a backpacker's paradise because it is surrounded by 500 historic sites, gorgeous temples, lively street markets, bastions, the Vijayanagar Empire's Treasury Building and other fascinating ruins.  It is popular for its enormous, exquisitely carved temples, especially the Virupaksha Temple, which honours the imperial patron deity. Aqueducts, canals, military barracks, and stables are also still present here, along with other relics. 


 



Vittala Temple, Hampi (Image Source: Getty)


3. Badami:


Badami is located in the red sandstone valley that encircles Agastya Lake. It is renowned for its exquisite sandstone sculptures, fortifications, and temples found in caves. This location, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a part of the Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal complex.


Three Hindu temples and one Jain temple can be found in Badami, the former royal capital of the Chalukyas, which features both South and North Indian architectural styles. The best illustration of Indian traditional temple architecture can be found there. For those who enjoy adventure, rock climbing is a well-liked activity in this area.


 



Bhutanatha temple and agasthya tirtha, Badami (Image Source: Getty)


4. Jog Falls:


Jog Falls, the highest waterfall in the state of Karnataka and the second-highest plunge waterfall in all of India, is a popular tourist destination. This seasonal cascade, also known as Gerosappa Falls or the Joga Falls, is divided into four sections: Raja, Roarer, Rocket, and Rani. They were given their names in honour of certain stream qualities. Raja is an unbroken stream, while Roarer is a turbulent torrent that gushes down to meet the Raja stream. Meanwhile, Rocket flows down in different jets and Rani is a quiet stream with falls in foam. 


 



Jog Falls, Karnataka (Image Source: Getty)


5. Kabini:


Kabini is primarily known for its luxury resorts around the Kabini River and Nagarhole National Park in the vicinity. Additionally, Asiatic elephants may be found in Kabini, which is a wildlife hotspot that was once a private hunting ground for the British. The spectacular biodiversity and birdlife of the Kabini Forest Reserve make up the southern portion of Nagarhole National Park. Kabini is also home to the world's most famous living black panther 'Saya'. 


Boat Safari and Jeep Safari in the Kabini jungle is the ideal way to spot the tiger, leopard, guars, and elephants. 


 



Kabini (Image Source: Getty)