Karnataka, both the birthplace of ancient civilizations and a region marked by stark contrasts, possesses an incredibly rich architectural and natural legacy. Whether you explore the temples of Hampi or traverse the woodlands of Bandipur, every location uncovers another facet of this southern Indian state.
Hampi, a regal metropolis where time seems frozen.
Hampi, once the capital of the Hindu empire of Vijayanagara, covers an area of 42 square kilometers right in the middle of Karnataka. UNESCO World Heritage Site , this 14 th A centuries-old city captivates tourists with its preserved architecture, set against a dramatic backdrop formed by the Tungabhadra River and rugged hills. Within this site featuring over 1,600 structures, the active Virupaksha Temple rises 50 meters tall and boasts intricate sculptural details. Nearby, the Vittala Temple impresses with its exquisitely crafted stone chariot and remarkable musical columns.
Mysore, regal charm at the core of Karnataka
The erstwhile capital of the Wodeyar kingdom — a dynasty that governed the area for more than five hundred years, between 1399 and 1947 — Mysore is best known for its palace, a masterpiece of Indian architecture. Constructed around the transition period between centuries, th In this century, the monument merges local and European styles, ranging from the Middle Ages through to the 19th. th In the heart of this century-old structure, exquisite carvings decorate the facade, which boasts golden domes and stunning murals. Inside, intricate wooden details and vibrant stained-glass windows narrate the tale of southern India’s mightiest ruling family. Nearby stands Chamundi Hill, featuring a shrine devoted to Goddess Chamundeshwari, protected by an impressive sculpture of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s divine bull.
Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal, the holy triumvirate of Chalukya shrines.
On the outskirts of Karnataka’s arid plains, located in the northern part of the state, lie three archaeological sites that showcase the progression of ancient Indian architectural styles. In Badami, cave temples hewn from rust-colored stone offer views over a vibrant green lake. Meanwhile, Aihole, believed to be the birthplace of Hindu temple architecture, features more than 100 shrines dating as far back as the 6th century. th In just 20 kilometers' distance, Pattadakal stands as a testament to excellence in this artistic style; designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts nine Hindu temples along with one Jain shrine. Notably included among these structures is the Virupaksha Temple, constructed circa 740 AD under Queen Lokamahadevi’s patronage and remains remarkably well-preserved even today.
Bandipur National Park, Karnataka's untamed refuge
Bandipur National Park stands as the biggest untouched natural region in South India. Located in southern Karnataka, this dense forested area—formerly used by the rulers of Mysore for hunting—now serves as a refuge for remarkable fauna. It boasts one of the highest tiger densities on the Indian subcontinent. Within the park, you can find herds of elephants, packs of dholes, and gaur—the planet’s largest living species of wild cattle—wandering through expanses of savannahs and vast teak woodlands. This pristine reserve is just a four-hour journey away from Bangalore and under two hours’ travel from Mysore.
The charm of Belur and Halebidu, showcasing the magnificence of the Hoysala era
The temples of Belur and Halebidu, situated in the western part of Karnataka, stand as remarkable examples of Hoysala architectural excellence, showcasing the pinnacle of artistic and architectural achievements during this era. The Chennakeshava temple at Belur, constructed in the 12th century, exemplifies these qualities. th During the rule of King Vishnuvardhana, this century-old structure was built as a dedication to Vishnu. Its exterior showcases intricate bas-relief panels illustrating episodes from both the Mahabharata and Ramayana epics. Inside, you can find exquisitely crafted columns featuring heavenly dancers alongside floral designs. In Halebidu, another notable religious site emerges: the Hoysaleswara Temple, devoted to Shiva. This historic shrine distinguishes itself through its elaborate carvings and ornate architectural elements.
Bijapur, the enduring mark of the Adil Shahi rulers
In North Karnataka lies Bijapur, once the heart of the Adil Shahi Sultanate, which still echoes with remnants of an illustrious history. The town’s crowning glory is the Gol Gumbaz, a massive mausoleum constructed beginning in 1650. This monumental structure rises majestically, crowned by what was then among the planet's biggest basalt domes. Within its walls, the Whispering Gallery transforms even faint sounds into mesmerizing acoustic displays; legend has it that noises made beneath this dome reverberate up to elevenfold. Surrounding these iconic landmarks are numerous mosques, palaces, and tombs—such as the revered Jamiya Masjid, recognized globally through UNESCO’s list for being part of our shared heritage. Here, within this historic setting, Indian Islamic arts and architectural prowess achieved their pinnacle.
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