Things to do & places to visit in Karnataka, India

Karnataka #3 destination in India 2023. The average rating score is 4.24 based on 121.6k traveler reviews, of 667 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Kolkata, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 6:17.

Karnataka Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

97°F - 74°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Very warm with a gentle breeze

Feels like

24%

Chance of rain

115.0 millimeters

Amount

12.9 mph

Wind speed

60%

Humidity

12.8

Daylight length

5:58 AM

Sunrise

6:47 PM

Sunset

31%

Cloud cover

Sleeveless shirt

What to wear

Top things to do (26)

Top destinations in Karnataka 47

See more 35 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Chennakesava Temple (696 reviews)
- One of the best temples of India and a must visit for history and architecture lovers
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites

The Chennakesava temple of Belur is one of the best preserved temples of the Hoysala dynasty of Karnataka. The Hoysalas were famed for the creation of intricately carved temples during their reign and the Chennakesava temple along with the Hoysaleshwara temple of Halebeedu mark the epitomy of their skills in this area. The temple itself is a living temple which means that the deity has not been destroyed by any invaders and therefore is worshipped as per Hindu traditions to this date. It is a well preserved temple and is a must visit for every history and architecture lover. Pure poetry in stone. The temple is well maintained and guides are available at the entrance of the monument. Definitely engage a guide as it will enhance the experience a thousandfold. The guide will walk you through all the main sculptures and architectural details including the famed statue of Shantala Devi, the beautiful queen of King Vishnuvardana, the most famous of the Hoysala rulers who commissioned this temple. Definitely stay until dusk (7:00PM) when the temple closes as the changing light illustrates the full glory of the monument. The legend of Shantala Devi, of the great scupltor Jakanna all come to life as the crowds dwindle and the light starts fading. See more..
5.0 Group of Monuments at Hampi (665 reviews)
- Excellent and a memorable trip to Hampi
Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins

Our tour to the historic ruins of Hampi and the surrounding areas was made mesmerizing by our guide Mr.Rajavalli. His knowledge about the place is immense and he takes you around the places at your leisure. With him around, we could immerse in the era of a time long gone; but we lived through it. The 2 days that we spend there, we were transported back to time. There are soo many monuments and structures around Hampi that they have their own stories to tell. When you visit such places you require a guide who knows the details to the fullest. Mr. Rajavalli is such a person. Without him, those monuments would have remained just a piece of stone. Also, what is the treasure that we carry back from such places other then memories and photographs? Our guide, helped us with some excellent photographic locations which I am sure will remain ever with us. Mr. Rajavalli can be contacted on +91 8073874131 and/or 9480755411. I feel 2-3 days is required if Hampi is to be explored at length. (Add travel days to it). We stayed at Hospet (Royal Central Orchid Kireeti). Food at the hotel is excellent and so is the pool. Hampi is day exploration with lot of walk around, thus a cool time at the pool is required once you are back at the hotel. Generally days are hot at Hampi and night's cool. Vehicle will be required when you move from Hospet to Hampi. Also, sunscreen protection cream might be useful. Though there is nothing much to do in Hospet after sunset, but still going around the downtown area (bus stand, market) might be interesting. Overall, not only an excellent trip but a memorable one too!!!!! See more..
4.5 Mysuru Palace (6.263 reviews)
- Amba Vilas - Royal residence at Mysuru
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 AM Castles

This 1912 structure is one of the largest palaces in the country and contains art from around the world. See more..
4.5 ISKCON Temple Bangalore (4.835 reviews)
- An Interesting Glimpse Into Krishna Culture
Friday: 4:15 AM - 5:00 AM, 7:15 AM - 1:00 PM, 4:15 PM - 8:20 PM Spent 1-2 hours Religious Sites

ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna temple was inaugurated in the year 1997. It is not just a temple, but a cultural complex housing the temples dedicated to the Deities of Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra, Sri Sri Krishna Balarama, Sri Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Srinivasa Govinda, Sri Prahlada Narasimha, Bhakta Hanuman, Garudadeva and Srila Prabhupada, Founder Acharya of ISKCON. ISKCON Bangalore is a charitable society with the objective of propagating Krishna Consciousness all over the world, as explained by Srila Prabhupada, whose teachings are based on Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. See more..
4.5 Wonderla Amusement Park (4.247 reviews)
- Excellent Park to Enjoy the Water Rids
Friday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

Wonderla Holidays Limited, is the No. 1 amusement park operator in India. Promoted by Arun K. Chittilappilly and Kochouseph Chittilappilly, Wonderla currently owns and operates three amusement parks – one each in Kochi, Bangalore and Hyderabad respectively and a resort in Bangalore. Wonderla Kochi, spread over 35 acres of land, is thrilling visitors with 56 rides since 2000. Wonderla Bangalore, spanning over 82 acres, offers a spectacular range of entertainment with 61 rides. Wonderla Hyderabad, the latest edition in the portfolio, is spread over 50 acres and offers 43 attractions. Wonderla Amusement Park has been ranked No. 1 in India and No. 6 in Asia by TripAdvisor for 5 consecutive years. Wonderla Resort, located beside the amusement park in Bangalore, comprises of 84 luxury rooms, with amenities including 4 full-fledged banquet halls, multi cuisine restaurant, rest-o-bar and recreational facilities like a heated swimming pool, kid’s activity centre & a full fledged gym. See more..
4.5 Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (3.313 reviews)
- Nice Zoo
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, popularly known as ‘Mysuru Zoo’, is one of the oldest zoos of the country established in 1892, by His Highness, the erstwhile Ruler of Mysuru Sri Chamarajendra Wadiyar Bahadur. Mysuru Zoo holds an important place in Karnataka. In 1909 the Palace Zoo was named as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens to commemorate the illustrious founder and since then it bears the nomenclature. Mysuru Zoo has gradually grown into tourist centre, imparting wildlife values. It has got 123 years of history exhibiting wild animals in the near natural enclosures. Despite majority of the zoos have been shifted from the original place to the new places, Mysuru Zoo could modernize the zoo, without shifting the zoo. The zoo is well compacted unit, with modern animal enclosures including heritage buildings attracting tourists all over the world. See more..
4.5 UB City (2.803 reviews)
- Entertaining
Friday: 10:30 AM - 11:30 PM Shopping Malls

With the opening of The Collection, UB City in Bangalore, a shopping trip to Europe, which is something that most Indian luxuriates were required to do to prime up their lifestyle, has become irrelevant. The luxury retail market in India, has suddenly taken a radical turn for the better. The city's most famous landmark, UB City - built jointly by Dr. Vijay Mallya & the Prestige Group has seized the opulence of the Indian market in a significant way. See more..
4.5 Namdroling Monastery (2.366 reviews)
- Peaceful feeling
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites

Certainly a must visit place if you vacationing in Mysore or Coorg. The peaceful feeling you get inside the Monastery is a very unique experience. Very lively place with positive vibes. You get to know a lot about Buddhist culture if you just look at the paintings all around the Monastery. A very well preserved heritage site for Buddhist. See more..
4.5 Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (1.763 reviews)
- Industrial training
Friday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Science Museums

Visvesvaraya Museum is fun for children and adults. It houses a treasure trove of machines and artifacts related to science and technology. Its interactive exhibits make this a great place for children to develop a love for science. There are exhibition Halls on Engines, Electricity, Fun Science, Space, Biotechnology & Electronics. Animated dinosaurs,life-size model of Wright Brothers' flyer and Steam locomotive are other attractions.There are interesting shows like 'Science on a sphere', 'Taramandal', '3d film show' and 'Science show' held at regular intervals. The 'Science for Kids' gallery is the new addition to the Museum. This is a place designed for tiny tots to play unhindered and engage with science. See more..
4.5 Mullayanagiri (1.619 reviews)
- Must Visit Place
Spent 1-2 hours Mountains

Mullayanagiri Peak If your planning for the first time to chikmagalur. Its a must visit place because its a tallest peak of Karnataka with is 6320 ft above the sea level. Approch road from Chikmagalur to Mullayanagiri peak is good. Kaimara check post open at 6am to 6pm After parking your vehicle, before climbing the step its a view of chikmagalur city. Its a claim of 520 steps (As i counted) You guys might spot some Neelakurinji flowers. Top of the peak it has a amazing view Mullayanagiri peak is know for the best sun raise and sun set point. And on the top you can visit a small temple of "Mulappa swamy". See more..
4.5 Vithala Temple Complex (1.077 reviews)
- An Ode to the Vijayanagara Empire
Historic Sites • Religious Sites

The temple complex is an ode to the Sheer grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire of 14 to 16 century before being destroyed by its neighbors in 1565. The temple has musical pillars whicch is now not allowed. The architecture is too amazing to be put into words. A guide is a must to understand the various nuances of the sculpture. The stone chariot in the courtyard is one of the three such stone chariots in the country. See more..
4.5 Virupaksha Temple (1.002 reviews)
- The Best Auto Rickshaw driver and guide At Hampi
Religious Sites

We really enjoyed our day at Hampi, the temples are ornate and intricately designed, I would highly recommend our Auto rickshaw Guide and Driver Venkatesh. He was knowledgeable but most importantly tailored our trip to fit our time and needs. Its an ideal way to see the ruins, as each site has its own guides if you feel a need for one. For the most part you don't one but if you may need one for a specific temple there are guide books available and quite self explanatory . Hampi Guide Auto Venkatesh cell phone 91 94802 10208 he he all you need. See more..
4.5 Somnathpur Temple (940 reviews)
- Beautiful Temple
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Religious Sites

Located around an hours' drive from Mysore, the Chennakeshava temple in Somnathpur is an example of Hoysala architecture. The beautiful 13th century temple is worth visiting for the intricate sculpture on the walls, pillars and ceilings depicting stories from Hindu mythology. The ornate historical temple is well preserved by the Archeological Society of India. There are a couple of areas which need improvement : - There is no ticket counter and payment for entry is only through UPI, which is difficult in view of poor network in the area. No options for cash or cards - There is no proper cafeteria. A good and clean one is required Improvement in these areas would greatly benefit tourists, including foreign ones See more..
4.5 Sri Krishna Temple (844 reviews)
- Mesmerizing experience during the evening seva at Krishna temple
Religious Sites

We went at 6.00pm , very less crowd, we had the most amazing experience. The evening ritual ( seva) starts at 6.30 pm , they light hundreds of diyas in the mandir and the evening Aarti enfolds accompanied by lots of musicians playing traditional musical instruments. Post that the deity is taken in a palaquin( palkhi) around the Krishna mutt. Then on the boat in the sarovar all accompanied by the procession of musicians. This around 7.30 pm . Post that the diety is kept on huge almost 30 feet raths , pulled by the devotees .The raths are beautifully illuminated!!! There is traditional Indian music being played. It's a mesmerizing experience. This happens DAILY (except the monsoons ) . This tradition is going on for centuries. It's like time has stopped here, centuries ago ,terms of rituals and traditions being followed. The ambiance too is amazing See more..
4.5 Vidhana Soudha and Attara Kacheri (777 reviews)
- Good for visit in evening to enjoy lighting effects and architecture
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

The Neo-Dravidian-style Vidhana Soudha is the seat of the state legislature while the red Attara Kacheri houses the High Court. In 2005, an annex called the Vikas Soudha was inaugurated, designed as an exact replica of the Vidhana Soudha. Though these buildings cannot be visited, they can be viewed from the outside. See more..
4.5 Hoysaleswara Temple (766 reviews)
- Magnificent Halebeedu
Religious Sites

Read about the temple and the Hoysalas in our history books, this temple just like Belur Chennakeshava temple is an architectural marvel. Built somewhere in the 12th century this is a prime attraction for the tourists here. There are many monolithic structures here and it is a treat to your eyes. The detailing provided in these structures through manual carvings are unbelievable. The carvings are even better than the ones you find in Hampi. A photographers paradise. The place is usually crowded. Parking is on the main road and usually crowded too as the street is usually busy. They charge Rs. 30 for a four wheeler. There is a footwear stand inside the complex which charges you Rs.5 per pair. This is a must visit place and would surely recommend. See more..
4.5 Kudle Beach (764 reviews)
- Wonderful time in Kundla beach with Namaste Yoga Farm
Beaches

The beach is amazing and I stayed at Namaste Yoga Farm and did yoga two times a day. Wonderful experience and so refreshing to spend relaxing time in Kundla. The only problem that I found in the beach is the watersports which kills the beach spirit and the spirit of the land. In that respect the Gokarna main beach is in a better position. New commercial establishments are coming which will also cater to mass tourism and drove the foreign travellers away from this place. See more..
4.5 M Chinnaswamy Stadium (705 reviews)
- Great cricket ground
Arenas & Stadiums

As I'm a sports journalist I had been there to cover, India v Australia one day international. A jam packed stadium with roaring support to Kohli and co.,it gave a great feeling. It has nice seating arrangements and its press box is very nice. Special area for Senior citizens in the members stand is a lovely initiative.Indian victory made it more memorable. See more..
4.5 Badami Cave Temples (695 reviews)
- Badami caves and fort
Caverns & Caves • Religious Sites

Stunning sculptures.Needs Climbing lot of steps. Climate was perfect being monsoon. Heard it's normally very hot and need to fight exhaustion due to heat. But it's worth the pain and if you are a history/architecture lover, then this place it a must see place. With minimum crowd, it took 2 hours to see the whole place. View of Agasthya lake with the Bhoothnath temple and the hillside in the background is breath taking. Next you can take the path to Bhoothnath temple. Very narrow streets and poor hygienic conditions. Don't try to take your car. If you cannot walk, then take an auto...it's just less than 1.5kms. You will pass thru ASI museum and Badami fort entrance. On the way back, you can visit Badami fort. Take a guide. I had met one Mr. Raaju(+919986266209). He speaks English and was more a friend than a guide. But remember to wear your shoes and be prepared for 30mins of Climbing. See more..
4.5 Phoenix Marketcity (657 reviews)
- Great Mall for all your Shopping Needs
Friday: 10:30 AM - 10:00 PM Shopping Malls

Phoenix Marketcity is all set to transform the shopping & leisure behaviour of Bangaloreans with this world-class shopping centre - One that has never been seen or experienced anywhere in Bangalore before.Phoenix Marketcity is spread across 1.4 million sq. ft. See more..
4.5 Mandalpatti Peak (648 reviews)
- Absolutely mesmerising!!
Friday: 5:00 AM - 5:00 PM Lookouts

Mandalpatti, crowned at a height of 1600m, is situated at around 18 km from Madikeri, Coorg. Gradually evolving as one of the best tourist spots in Coorg, this fascinating trail is located en route to Abbey Falls. See more..
4.5 Elephant Stables (644 reviews)
- Marvelous Structure
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

These stables were built during Vijayanagar Empire. There are total 11 stables, 10 of which are identical and the centre one has slightly different architecture is bigger compared to others. Each stable had a small opening on back side so that the Mahawat can come and leave from that. Timings -8 AM to 6 PM Charges - 10 bucks (but if you have Vitthala Temple ticket, you can use same here) See more..
4.5 ISKCON Bangalore, Sri Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple (593 reviews)
- The Place where we get Peace of Mind
Religious Sites

I visited ISKCON Bangalore several times, the last being in September,2019. I feel some positive energy spread in the entire hall in front of Sree Krishna Idol. Sree Krishna bhajans are heart touching and it takes us to another world. No doubt the place is best for meditation. Those who love peace of mind, I suggest this place. At the same time regret to say that the quality of food served in the canteen restaurant (ground floor) is not upto the standard, need lot of improvements. Hope that the authorities will look into it and make it a value addition. See more..
4.5 Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneyaswamy Temple (584 reviews)
- Lord Hanuman temple with unconditional divinity at Jaya Nagar
Religious Sites

On 11th June'22, myself with my parents & son got to visit Ragiggudda Anchaneya temple, it was a Saturday evening, hence it was more crowded. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Hanuman with unconditional divinity, which is located at the top of Quaint hillock. Another beautiful shrine is available for Lord Ram with Sita & Laxman. The foot of the shrine has tiny temples for Lord Ganesha, Raja Rajeshwari, Devi and Navagrahas. The temple is well organized & beautifully maintained. Puliyogare prasad was provided for all devotees for free & paid prasad is also available. We had a most blissful, memorable evening at the temple. See more..
4.5 Kudroli Gokarnath Temple (570 reviews)
- Must visit place
Religious Sites

We visited this place in the evening time and we felt really great! Very less people were there and no disturbance at all. We can do Pujas in different temples, if we like. Rates are shown clearly in the main temple entrance. I would recommend anyone travelling to Mangalore to visit this place. See more..
4.0 Lalbagh Botanical Garden (6.188 reviews)
- Greenery all around
Friday: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

Went back to Lalbagh after ages and it was such a pleasant experience. Of-course the nice monsoon weather in Bangalore made the experience more nice. Adule ticket for Rs 30, children for Rs 10 and a parking ticket of Rs 50 at the gate and you are set. There is a battery vehicle available similar to how we have in zoo's or national parks to take folks around but I and my 8 year old decided to walk and just soak in the nature. Beautiful garden - lots of interesting things to explore. Take a snap of the map at the entrance on your phone and just follow the path to every corner. With so much greenery, never seen before trees, birds chirping, squirrels running helter/skelter and the beautiful lake and lotus pond. It was a well spent 2 to 3 hours here. See more..
4.0 Bannerghatta National Park (2.946 reviews)
- Awesome safari and great zoo!
Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Safari is just awesome, best one we had so far! It was one hour of pure amazement. May be they can increase the price and extend it to little longer. Zoo area is also quite big and very well maintained. We booked the ticket online, took the first slot which was relatively less crowded and found everything very well organised. We went with our little one and it was an amazing experience all and all! Thank you to the national park staff! See more..
4.0 Cubbon Park (2.494 reviews)
- Beautiful Green Lung of Bangalore!
Parks

Cubbon Park dons many hats: a green lung in the heart of the city that also hosts a library, museums, a tennis academy, an aquarium, a toy train and many statues and pavilions. It’s probably one of the only parks to have a busy road cutting through it. In the wee hours of the morning or evenings, it’s a jogger’s paradise. Spring adds to the beauty of this park, with the lovely and colorful Tabebuia trees in full bloom. See more..
4.0 Sri Chamundeshwari Temple (2.413 reviews)
- Beautiful temple but very crowded…
Friday: 7:30 AM - 9:00 PM Religious Sites

The temple is located on top of a hill and provides amazing views of the city below. We visited the temple at night and there was a huge line for entry. The place where people queue up can get suffocating due to the barriers created so would recommend to buy a ticket worth ₹100 for direct entry which is smoother and time saving. You also get Prasad when buying the ticket. The temple itself is very beautiful and the deity is worth a visit. See more..
4.0 Dubare Elephant Camp (1.445 reviews)
- Funtime with elephants
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

We booked for activities by JLR. From Dubare, we were taken to JLR by Abdul by speedboat. On arrival, there was floating bridge to Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR). We were received by Sandeep from JLR As part of the activities booked, we were offered breakfast buffet. The restaurant had a river view After breakfast, we had fun time with elephants by bathing the baby elephant, male and female elephants. Please wear slippers or waterproof footwear for elephant bathing activity. Then we were also taken to the elephant training camp and were briefed on how the elephant are trained for min of 8 months or more. Do ensure to carry sunglasses and umbrella if you are going in Summer season We also fed a male elephant, hugged him, took pictures with him and were also blessed by the elephant with its trunk for feeding him. We had to buy elephant food for Rs.100 We were dropped at the pick up point after the activity using the speed boat See more..