Karnataka, one of the southern states in Indian Peninsula, is gifted with abundant natural beauty and glorious monuments, built by the earlier mighty rulers like Vijayanagar empire, Hoysala dynasty, Chalukyas etc. Tourists are attracted from all over the world to this enchanting land to admire the rare beauty of these ancient monuments and the natural beauty. Karnataka also has wild life sanctuaries and beautiful waterfalls. Though there are many interesting places in Karnataka, only just ten top places are given below –
1. Hampi
Located 350 kms away from Bangalore, Hampi was the capital of famous Vijayanagar Empire, who ruled South India from 14th to 16th century AD. After the destruction by the invaders, what remains today is the ruins of Hampi, scattered about 26 sq.km in area, amidst giant boulders and vegetation, silently telling the stories of the glorious period of their rule. Hampi ruins, a world heritage site today, is packed with giant temples, palaces, market streets, aquatic structures, fortifications and an abundance of other ancient monuments.
2. Pattadakkal
The sacred complex at Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is situated on the banks of the River Malprabha. Pattadakal is famous for its 8th-century temples, built by Chalukya kings during their reign. These are built in the combination of North Indian and South Indian styles.
3. Belur-Halebid
Located 220 kms from Bangalore, on the banks of river Yagachi, in Hassan District, Belur was once the capital city of the Hoysala dynasty, who ruled Karnataka during 11th and 12th centuries. They constructed the beautiful star shaped Chennakeshava temple at Belur, which took 103 years and 3 generations to complete the task. 16 kms away lies Halebid, which is also famous for its magnificent temples, set up on raised platform. Halebid was their earlier capital during 12th and 13th centuries AD, when it was known as Dwarasamudra. Even after 87 years of laborious work, the task was never completed at Halebid. One can spend days together admiring the beauty of these architecture marvels.
4. Bijapur
Located 530 kms from Bangalore, Bijapur is famous for the historical monuments like Gol Gumbaz, which is the second largest tomb in the world. In the circular balcony of Gol Gumbaz, visitors can witness its greatest marvel. There are more monuments in Bijapur, such as Jumma Masjid, Ibrahim Roza etc. Bijapur was the capital of Adil Shahi dynasty who ruled this land during 13th century.
5. Shravanabelagola
Located 147 kms from Bangalore and 83 kms from Mysore at Hassan District, Shravanabelagola is one of the most popular Jain pilgrim centers. Shravanabelagola is wedged between Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri hills. A giant monolithic statue (58 ft) of Bhagawan Bahubali (Lord Gomaetheswara), said to be the world’s largest monolithic statue, is standing on the Vindhyagiri hills as a monument of peace.
6. Badami
This historic town is famous for the cave temples built by Chalukya kings, who ruled Deccan in 6th and 7th centuries and Badami was their capital. Among the rock-cut and structural monuments, the most richly decorated are the cave temples, which are carved into the cliff on the southern side. There are four such cave temples in Badami. The natural surroundings enhance the aesthetic appeal of these cave temples.
7. Mysore
The Imperial city of Palaces lies 140 kms away from Bangalore. Mysore was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1947. Magnificent Mysore Palace, former hold of the ruling Wodeyar dynasty is the palace that brings together of Hindu, Islamic, Gothic and Rajput styles. Mysore is also blessed with excellent climate and rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautifully laid out gardens, and zoo.