About
Karnataka is a state in southwestern India, and it holds a wide range of experiences within one region. Visitors come for its modern cities, its royal past and its historic ruins, and the mix means a trip can move easily between busy streets and quiet old sites.
Bangalore and the city
Bangalore, the state capital, is known for its information technology industry, and it has a lively, cosmopolitan feel that sets it apart from the rest of the state. It works well as a base for travellers who want city life, good dining and a sense of how contemporary India works.
Mysore's royal heritage
Mysore is the place to go for the state's royal history. Its palace and grand old buildings reflect the princely rule that shaped the city, and a slower pace makes it a pleasant change from the capital. Many visitors use it as a stop between the city and the state's historical sites.
Hampi's ruins
Hampi is the state's best-known historical destination. Its ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they spread across a dramatic landscape of boulders and river valley. Going there is a full day's exploration rather than a quick stop, and it suits anyone who enjoys walking among old stone and considering a long-vanished city.
What to expect
- Urban life in Bangalore, with its modern business character
- Royal heritage and a calmer atmosphere in Mysore
- Expansive UNESCO-listed ruins at Hampi
- A varied itinerary that moves from cities to historical sites
Karnataka, also known as Mysore State in earlier usage, suits travellers who want more than one kind of trip. Plan the route around the places that matter most to you, and allow time to move between them.
