Mysore: Known as the "City of Palaces," Mysore is famous for its grand Mysore Palace, which is a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Other attractions include the Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, and the vibrant Mysore Dasara festival.
Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is a captivating ancient city that was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. It boasts stunning ruins, including magnificent temples, palaces, and stone carvings.
Bangalore: The capital city of Karnataka, Bangalore (officially known as Bengaluru) is a bustling metropolis famous for its vibrant IT industry. It offers a mix of modern attractions like tech parks, shopping malls, and a lively nightlife along with historical landmarks like Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace.
Coorg: Located amidst the lush Western Ghats, Coorg (also known as Kodagu) is a picturesque hill station renowned for its coffee plantations, misty landscapes, and waterfalls. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Gokarna: Situated on the Arabian Sea coastline, Gokarna is a laid-back beach town that offers a more serene and less crowded alternative to Goa. Its pristine beaches, such as Om Beach and Kudle Beach, attract both pilgrims and tourists.
Jog Falls: Located in the Shimoga district, Jog Falls is one of India's tallest waterfalls and a breathtaking natural wonder. The cascading waterfall is a sight to behold, especially during the monsoon season.
Belur and Halebid: These historic towns are known for their stunning Hoysala architecture. Belur is home to the Chennakesava Temple, while Halebid boasts the Hoysaleswara Temple. Both temples are adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings.
Badami: Nestled in a ravine, Badami is renowned for its rock-cut cave temples. The four cave temples, dedicated to Hindu deities, showcase remarkable craftsmanship and are a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Bandipur National Park: Located in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Bandipur National Park is a tiger reserve and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It offers opportunities for wildlife safaris to spot tigers, elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Hassan: Hassan is a city known for its historical and architectural wonders. It is home to the intricate Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid mentioned earlier, along with other notable sites like Shravanabelagola, known for the colossal Gommateshwara statue.