Karnataka is yet another marvel of South India withits lush green forests, blue seas, sparkling waterfalls endless plains and rich green hills. More than anything else, it also has a culture that portrays the grandeur of past. And then, there’s diverse wildlife and heritage treasure that’ll leave lasting impression. All of which makes this piece of land one of the must sees for every discerning sojourner.

HERITAGE

Karnataka is known as the cradle of Stone Architecture in India and the reason being its profusion of monuments and structures found across the state. The remains of Hampi, the capital of erstwhile Vijayanagar Empire and Pattadakal tells a story that captivates every heart. The temples of Belur, Halebid and Somnathpur are worth a visit. So do the stately forts of Bijapur and Mysore. .

WILDLIFE

About 25% of Karnataka is covered by lush forests, where a wide variety of wildlife teems with the diverse flora and fauna. The high density of tigers found here makes Karnataka the home for tigers in India. One fourth of the world’s Asian elephant population found here. Karnataka has a host of national parks and wild life sanctuaries. The Nagarhole and Bannarghatta national parks, and Bandipur and Dandeli wildlife sanctruies are in Karnataka which attracts thousands of visitors. Kokkrebellur and Ranganathittu bird sanctuaries are famous for its rare birds.

HIGHLIGHTS

Karnataka is blessed with enchanting places that captivate every visitor’s heart. The water falls of Abbey, Iruppu, Shivasamudram and the Jog falls at Shimoga are world famous. Breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and mountains of Karnataka enthrall much beyond anyone’s imagination. The ranges of Kudremukh, Coorg and Agumbe are some of the most attractive destinations in the country itself. The soothing beaches of Karwar, Devbaugh, Gokarna and Murudeshwar make perfect holiday destinations for those who love water.

FESTIVALS

Dushera is the most famous festival of Karnataka. This 10-day long festival falls in the month of October. On the last day of Vijaya Dashami, a colourful procession of barded elephants carrying the idol of goddess Chamundi is taken through the gaily-decorated streets of Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka. The festival is celebrated in a grand style with scores of cultural performances in the great Durbar Hall of the Maharaja's Palace. Another unique festival of Karnataka is the Karaga which is celebrated in Bangalore in the honour of the queen of Pandavas, Draupadi. Karaga is celebrated on the full moon day of April, the first month of the Kannada calendar. Yugadi is the New Year celebration in Karnataka. This falls on the day after the new moon day in April, the month of Chaitra. The formation of the Karnataka State is celebrated on the 1st of November and is a state festival.

Best Time to Visit
All year except from mid-April to end June (state depending).

Visa Requirements
All non-residents require visas for India, which must be obtained prior to departure. Tourist visas for British passport holders are usually valid for 6 months from the date of issue and currently cost £30.00 per person. Passports must have at least 2 blank pages and be valid for 6 months after your return from India.

Flying Times from the UK
Chennai: 9 hours 40min direct non-stop
Bangalore: 9 hours 35mins direct non-stop
Goa: Approx. 10 hours not direct 
Cochin: Approx. 10 hours not direct

Local Time
India is 5 1/2 hours ahead of GMT