Karnataka

Golden sunrises over the gentle ebb of the Arabian Sea. Misty mornings in the heart of dense Western Ghats. Palatial structures whispering tales of regal grandeur. Bells chiming from ancient temples echoing across verdant landscapes. Vibrant marketplaces bursting with colors and scents. And the taste of authentic, spicy Bisi Bele Bath warming your senses.

Karnataka is not just a destination. It’s an experience. Each corner of this southern state beckons with its own story, waiting to unfold before you.

Feel the cool breeze of the Coorg hills on your face. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Hampi. Dance to the rhythm of the Dollu Kunitha. Let the beaches of Karwar cradle your worries away.

Welcome to Karnataka. Here, every journey becomes a memory, and every memory a timeless tale. Come, let’s walk its trails together.

History of Karnataka

Karnataka: A Glimpse Through Time

Prehistoric Era:

Evidence of human existence dating back to the Paleolithic age.
Ancient rock paintings and artifacts found in regions like Bhimbetka.

Early Dynasties:

Mauryas and Satavahanas (3rd century BCE – 3rd century CE): Karnataka’s earliest known rulers, leaving a legacy of art and architecture.
Kadambas (4th – 6th century CE): Established the first independent Kannada kingdom, credited with building some of the earliest Hindu temples in the region.

Golden Age:

Chalukyas of Badami (6th – 8th century CE): Renowned for their cave temples in Badami and temple architecture in Aihole and Pattadakal.
Rashtrakutas (8th – 10th century CE): Carved the iconic Kailasa temple at Ellora and championed Jainism.
Hoysalas (10th – 14th century CE): Crafted ornate temples like the Chennakesava and Hoysaleswara, showcasing intricate sculptures and design.

Medieval Period:

Vijayanagara Empire (14th – 17th century CE): One of India’s most powerful empires; Hampi served as their regal capital, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Colonial Interlude:

17th – 19th century: Territories were under the control of Marathas, Mughals, and later, the British Empire.

Post-Independence:

1956: The reorganization of states based on linguistic lines led to the formation of the state of Mysore, which in 1973 was renamed as Karnataka.

Modern Era:

Today, Karnataka stands as a blend of the old and new. Its rich history complements its progressive strides in technology, notably in the IT hub, Bengaluru.

Karnataka’s tapestry is woven with threads of culture, innovation, and resilience, making it a captivating study for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Karnataka quick facts

Location:

Southwestern region of India, flanked by the Arabian Sea on its west.

Languages Spoken:

Primary: Kannada
Others: English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, Konkani, and Tulu.

Climate:

Coastal Regions: Tropical monsoon.
Plains: Semi-arid.
Western Ghats: Tropical highland.

Best Known For:

Its splendid blend of history, nature, and modernity, with Bengaluru as its tech-savvy capital.

Popular Festivals:

Mysuru Dasara: A ten-day grandeur showcasing Karnataka’s rich culture.
Ugadi: Traditional New Year’s Day for Kannadigas.
Kambala: Buffalo race held in coastal regions.
Karaga: A traditional dance festival dedicated to Goddess Shakti.

Tourist Attractions:

Hampi: Ancient ruins from the Vijayanagara Empire.
Mysuru Palace: A royal marvel symbolizing regality and elegance.
Coorg: Serene hill station renowned for its lush landscapes.
Badami Caves: A set of rock-cut temples displaying intricate architecture.

Local Cuisine:

Bisi Bele Bath: Spicy rice and lentil preparation.
Ragi Mudde: Wholesome finger millet balls served with curry.
Dosa: Crispy fermented crepes made of rice and black lentils.
Mysuru Pak: A delectable sweet made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour.

From its palatial wonders to the aromatic flavors of its cuisine, Karnataka beckons for an immersive experience.

Best time to visit Karnataka

October to March:

Weather: Pleasant and cooler, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Highlights: Ideal for visiting hill stations like Coorg, and for experiencing the grandeur of Mysuru Dasara if visiting in October.

April to June:

Weather: Warm with moderate temperatures; hill stations remain cooler.
Highlights: Suitable for beach holidays along the coast and exploring wildlife in sanctuaries.

July to September:

Weather: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall, especially in the coastal and Western Ghats regions.
Highlights: Perfect for nature enthusiasts, as the landscape turns lush green, and waterfalls like Jog Falls are at their majestic best.

While Karnataka offers distinct experiences throughout the year, the winter months (October to March) are generally considered the best, offering a balanced climate for varied activities across the state.

How to reach Karnataka

By Air:

International Airports:
- Bengaluru International Airport (Kempegowda International Airport): Connected to major cities globally.
- Mangalore International Airport: Links to select international destinations and many Indian cities.
Domestic Airports: Hubli, Belgaum, and Mysuru among others, serving various parts of India.

By Train:

Major Railway Stations: Bengaluru (Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna Station), Mysuru, Mangalore, and Hubli.
Well connected to major cities and towns across India through an extensive railway network.

By Road:

State Highways, National Highways, and well-maintained roads connect Karnataka to neighboring states.
- NH 48: Connects Bengaluru to Mumbai.
- NH 44: Links Bengaluru to Hyderabad and beyond.

By Sea:

Mangalore port serves as a gateway for limited sea routes, especially to the Arabian Peninsula.

Whether you choose to soar the skies, traverse by train, drive along scenic roads, or sail the seas, Karnataka’s doors are always open, welcoming visitors with its myriad experiences.