Karnataka - Tripārambh

Karnataka is ranked as the fourth most popular tourist state in India. Karnataka has something for everyone. It's rich cultural heritage can be experienced in the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi. It's serene beaches, lush green hill stations, architectural beauties, temples, monuments, rich cuisines make it a must-visit state of southern India. Famous for it's coffee and sandalwood plantations, these are definite souvenirs for every tourist!

PLACES TO SEE

READS

GUIDES

Best Time To Visit

October to April is the best time to visit Karnataka. This is a little before the start and after the end of Karnataka's winter season. The weather is moderately cold making it very pleasant to explore the state.
Summers in Karnataka do not get too hot and humid except for its coastal places. This is a good time to experience it's hill stations.
To experience the exotic flora and fauna and the wildlife sanctuaries, the monsoon season between June to September, is a good time.

Temperatures
Oct-Feb: 20-32°C
Mar-May: 28-42°C
Jun-Sep: 25-28°C

How to Reach

By Air: Karnataka has seven airports at Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Mysore, Hampi, Hubli, Belgaum, and Bijapur. The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) at Bengaluru and the Mangalore International Airport are the two international airports.

By Road: Karnataka has a good state highway network and is also well connected to the rest of the country via the national highways. Government run transport (KSRTC) operate intra and inter state buses.
You can also plan to take road trips along the state's scenic coastal route to Mangalore, Udupi, Gokarna or experience the beauty of the hills enroute Coorg or Chikmaglur.

By Rail: All major cities of Karnataka are well connected to other parts of India by railway network. The KSR Bengaluru City Railway Station is one of the most important railway stations. Once can enjoy the Vistadome Coach along the Konkan railway for a one of its kind experience.

Top 5 Things you must take back from your Bengaluru trip

You cannot go back empty handed after visiting the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru. From its ancient temples, historical forts and palaces to the new age malls and party areas, there is much to experience in the city. Don't miss picking up some souvenirs for yourself!

Here are five items native to the state that serve as good and pocket friendly gifts for your family and friends and yourself too.

Sandalwood Products

Sandalwood souvenirs are a must buy when visiting the state of Karnataka, the Land of Sandalwood. Don't miss picking up some pure sandalwood products like incense sticks, sandalwood powder, sandalwood garland, sandalwood soaps, pieces of sandalwood, sandalwood soaps, miniature idols and more.

Channapatna Toys

Bright, delightful, fun and thoroughly enjoyable! Some of the words to describe the Channapatna wooden toys that are must buys for friends and family, especially if you have young children. Channapatna is located about 60 km from Bengaluru. You can even plan a trip to see how these toys are made enroute Bengaluru and Mysuru.

The toys are simple and colored with natural vegetable dyes, making them safe for kids to play with.

In addition to toys, you can also pick up some Channapatna wooden keychains, jewellery, home decor and more.

Mysore Silk Sarees

In Karnataka, silk is mainly produced in the Mysore district. A striking feature of the Mysore silk sarees is the bold body colors, the intricate details of the zari that are done in silver and pure gold threads. The soft feel and smooth drape of these sarees make them a must-have in your saree collection.

The Mysore silk sarees are available in traditional as well as contemporary designs. Don't forget to pick one!

Mysore Pak

One cannot leave Bengaluru without a box of its famous sweet, the Mysore Pak. It is made of gram flour, sugar syrup and generous amount of ghee to give it its texture and taste! It is available in most sweet shops in the city and will definitely keep you asking for more!

Coorg Coffee

Coorg is known for its coffee estates. The coffee from here is shade grown, making it low on acidity and giving it intense depth and flavor. These are reasons enough to take home a pack of coffee powder and maybe add a traditional coffee filter to your shopping basket to savor the amazing flavors back home.