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Karnataka Tourism
Kaleidoscopic Karnataka is a state brimming with endless possibilities. For the nature lover, it is abundant in buoyant beaches, whispering waterfalls, and heavenly hills. For the history nerd, it is bountiful in pristine palaces, tucked- away temples, and celebrated caves. For the… read more
Being blessed with diverse landscapes, terrains and topographical features, Karnataka is truly a year-round destination. You cannot find one particular season where tourism in all of Karnataka is dull. It is a state that is buzzing with people from not just neighboring states looking for a long-weekend getaway with family or friends but international tourists who drop down to learn more about the India culture and heritage through the ruins, beaches and religious places of interests in Karnataka.
So the best time to visit Karnataka depends on what you intend to see in the state, what you want to experience and where you wish to stay. If you are looking to escape the scorching heat of the summers and head somewhere chilly and frosty, the best place to head to will be Chikkamagaluru and Coorg. If you want to unwind from stress and day job, you can head to the pristine beaches of Gokarna which makes summer again the best time to visit Karnataka.
Or, if you want to take time out during the winters and go for place that is mildly humid, you will have places like Murudeshwar and Hampi welcoming you with ruins and monuments of historic importance. Climates again vary from one topographical region to another. Summer, which can be highly humid and sunny in Hampi can be pleasant in the more southern regions like Bengaluru. So, the best season to visit Karnataka boils down to your purpose and time of visit.
However, to make informed decisions about your travel, check out the various seasons and their temperatures and significance.
Karnataka experience summer during the months of April to June.
Depending on where you are in Karnataka, temperatures can range from 28 to 45 degrees Celsius.
The central region of Karnataka experiences extreme summers, where the summer temperatures can be menacing. At the same time, the state’s coastal regions are moderately hot and humid and perfect for sitting by the beach and indulging in water sports. However, the perfect weather conditions are in the hilly regions of Karnataka that arrive as the perfect retreat for those looking to get away from massive temperatures.
This is the time schools and most colleges in India are shut for the end of academic years and there is a huge influx of tourists in Karnataka. You can see people everywhere and this is the time hotel prices can shoot up. With that said, this is also the time a lot of activities in Karnataka open and up and thanks to longer daylight, you can visit more places in a day and still manage to find time to spend by the beach. There are also festivals and processions like Ugadi and Vairamudi festival happening in different parts of the state that add festivity and fun to your holiday. Also, water sports become more prominent in the coastal areas of Karnataka like Gokarna and Karwar and you can see a lot of tourists from around the world dropping by to escape winter.
Depending on where you are, temperatures can become really exhaustive. So, be informed and pack your bag accordingly.
Always wear light clothes and avoid shoes. Pack sunglasses, hats, t-shirts and sunscreens. Always carry adequate water with you and stay hydrated. Stock packs of ORS if you can.You can also check out ways on How to reach karnataka
Winters in Karnataka are always special. This is the time where temperatures are neither too dry nor too cold. It is just perfect; perfect to get out of your room and come fresh. You can say this is the best season to visit Karnataka. Winters in the state start during the month of November and gradually unfold through the months until February.
The temperature in winter ranges between 21 to 32 degrees Celsius approximately.
Weather is really, really pleasant with chilly early mornings and pleasant afternoons and mildly cold evenings.
With the floras and faunas flourishing at this time, you can go for national park safaris and spend some quality time in the otherwise hot region of Hampi and its surroundings. Since the weather is perfect around this time, you can get to eat a lot and get maximum exposure to the delicacies of Karnataka and catch a glimpse of the local flavors and ingredients. This is also the time Dusshera is celebrated in the grandest of scale, with the entire city of Mysore taking part in the festivities. Streets and roads are illuminated and people together offer positive vibes.
Though perfect, winters can get very, very cold. If you are not used to chilly climatic conditions, you can plan well in advanced and prefer other seasons or simply take precautionary actions and remedies.
Carry winter jackets, pullovers and thermals. Winter is also the season to keep yourself hydrated and have over-the-counter medications for cold and cough in hand all the time. Wear shoes to avoid seeping in of frost.
We mentioned Karnataka is one of the blessed states in India with fertile soil and lush green carpets o grasslands and waterfalls. If there is one time the true beauty of all these natural landscapes come to life in all grandeur, it is during the monsoons. Majestic as they appear, the monsoon in Karnataka starts from June and continues till September.
The average temperature during the monsoon ranges between 23 and 28 degrees Celsius
Since Karnataka receives rainfall from the southwest monsoon winds, it is better to avoid the coastal regions of the state and head to the more central and northern regions. The temperatures are pleasant with moderate rainfall in those regions. The eastern part of Karnataka remains comparatively dry, making it an ideal destination for tourism in Karnataka at this time.
This is the season all the waterfalls, the plantations, rivers and natural landscapes come to life. With contrasting hues of green and blue filling your sight and birds and animals coming out of their territories to soak in some monsoon breeze, you will have the best time of your life at this particular season. Offbeat but worth it!
If you are planning to visit Gokarna, Murudeshwar or Karwar during this time, be noted that you will have to stay indoors for most of the time because of heavy rainfall. Most of the shacks are closed for the monsoon and there is nothing much to do there unless you want to retreat to yourself and unwind.
Carry ponchos, raincoats and umbrellas to save yourself from the rains. Also carry flashlights, power bank and backups to tackle power outages during monsoon. Though not that severe, climate can become unpredictable at times. If you going to the hills, look out for the leeches, they are all around in the Western Ghats.
There are also amazing Karnataka Tour Packages to choose from,here at Thomas Cook
Dandeli is a fascinating and adventurous city situated on the Western Ghats in Uttarakhand popular for its lush dense deciduous forests, deep valleys, wildlife sanctuaries, bird watching, water sports, river side fishing, trekking on hilly terrains, mountain biking, night camps and scenic beauty. It is a mélange of astounding nature and exhilarating adventure that allures vacationers, making it a top tourist destination.
The best season to visit Dandeli is between October to May when the climate is pleasant for the water and other activities and also to spot the animals. Monsoons is best avoided due to heavy rainfalls making it unsuitable to enjoy the spots.
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Dandeli,+Uttarakhand+249146/@30.3126298,78.4664002,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x39091cb4d34f487b:0xefc1d674ac6a9a54!8m2!3d30.3117573!4d78.4766152
1.Kavala Caves - The exotic limestone Kavala caves is visited by tourists and especially by devotees of Lord Shiva to see an incredible creation of shivlinga formed by the volcanic activities. The cave is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites and to visit the inner sanctum one has to descend down 375 steps and carry a torch as the cave is pitch dark.
Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Daily.
2.Shiroli Peak – The highest peak in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, it offers a glorious view of the Western ghat’s Sahyadri range, picturesque sunset and is a good route for trekking as well. An ideal spot for nature and adventure seekers.
3.River Kali – River Kali offers a myriad of water activities, attracting majority of the adventure enthusiasts to Dandeli. Mercurial in nature, it caters to the excitement for both amateurs and professionals. White water rafting in Kali river is an enthralling experience of rafting through grade 2, 3 and 4 rapids over a 9 kilometer run under the supervision of an expert. Besides rafting, kayaking and canoeing are other activities that one can indulge in. Coracle boat riding, a saucer-shaped ‘boat’ made of bamboo and tanned buffalo hide is a beguiling experience to watch crocodiles in the water, and hornbills hovering in the sky. Moonlight boating is another activity for nature lovers to ride at night with night vision binoculars to see the nocturnal animals in the surrounding jungle which is home to deers and boars amongst others.
4.Kayaking - Kayaking activities are conducted in the Supa reservoir, which is a man-made reservoir that spreads over a huge area surrounded by teak plantations. There are small islets in between where one can camp in absolute privacy since the entire area is uninhabited.
5.Canyoning- Canyoning is a variant form of rappelling conducted in the Sathkonda Canyon near Dandeli. A challenging activity, it is the current rage and an adrenaline pumping experience of rappelling down steep rocks under the gushing waterfall (safety harness attached) using a combination of jumping, abseiling and natural water slides.
6.Rappelling - Climb the steepest rocky cliffs of Sahyadri mountains and careen down suspended on a rope. A thrilling activity conducted under the supervision of an expert, it is a must.
7.Wildlife Sanctuary – In an area of 834.16 sq km, it is second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka and was declared as one in 1956. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary offers a plethora of excitement for nature lovers and adventurers:
8.Flora - The entire forest area is covered with thick vegetation punctuated with bamboo and teak plants.
9.Fauna- Visitors are likely to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Malabar giant squirrels, barking deers, elephants, bisons, black panthers, Indian pangolin, Indian jackal, etc.
10.Birds – A haven for bird watchers, it is a thrill to see pied hornbills, bar winged flycatcher shrikes, crested serpent eagle, pompadour green pigeons, kingfisher, woodpecker, cuckoo, blue headed ground thrush, yellow browed bulbuls and many more.
11.Jungle Safari and Trekking – Explore the vast sanctuary in an open jeep safari, trekking on foot or mountain biking and feel the rush of spotting the wildlife amidst the lush green forest.
12.Camping – Indulge in overnight and outdoor camping for a different experience. Sync with nature as you camp at the banks of river Kali under the stars and with a spectacular view of the resident birds hovering in the sky.
An ideal retreat for an exciting adventure packed holiday amidst lush evergreen nature.
Flight: The nearest airport is Belgaum Airport, Karnataka about a distance of 90 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to Dandeli.
Train: The closest station is Alnaver railway station at a distance of 35 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to Dandeli
Road: Dandeli is well connected to major cities of India and several private and state buses ply to to the city. Private car and taxi can also be hired.
A local legend states that the city is named after Dandelappa, a local deity, a servant of the Mirashi landlords, who lost his life because of his loyalty. An alternative legend states that a king named Dandakanayaka passed through the forests and named them after himself, and the city is believed to stand on the place where Dandakaranya stood when he named the area.
Probably one of the best amusement parks India has ever produced, Wonderla is the place for fun, frolic and endless hours of fun. With the range of adventurous rides it offers, Wonderla is exciting, challenging and extremely thrilling to be in. Located at around 30 kilometers from Bengaluru, Wonderla is the place flocked by IT professionals, college students, families and groups of friends from around the country. Be it the rides that offer a freefall, rollercoasters, or the more daunting Maverick, the park ensures you have a great time with your close ones.
28th km, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109
Families with kids and groups of friends
Easy to moderate
There are two types of tickets you can get at Wonderla – fasttrack tickets and regular tickets. While the regular tickets cost approximately Rs. 800 and 1000 for kids and adults respectively, the fasttrack tickets cost approximately Rs. 1800 and 1500 for adults and kids.
You can call it the Universal Studios of India thanks to the range of rides and thrills it offers. It is also one of the safest and well maintained amusement parks in India, making Wonderla a must visit attraction in Karnataka.
Weekends can become very crowded due to the proximity to Bengaluru. If you are in Karnataka during the weekdays, take a day off for Wonderla and go during the weekdays, when you can access all the rides without having to stand in line for long.
Hampi is a small city in Karnataka that partly hosts a group of monuments and is declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is dotted with several ruins of temples and historical landmarks belonging to the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi was a part of that empire’s capital, Vijayanagara, back in the 14th century. But its existence is believed to predate even that rule, with its mentions being in the ancient epic, Ramayana. It has been a prime centre of Karnataka tourism in the state since the 1960s, attracting both casual tourists and history enthusiasts from all over the country and the world. It used to be an offbeat tourist attraction due to the lack of proper infrastructure. However, with hundreds of remarkable places to visit in Hampi, it has now become a prominent spot for tourism in the state.
Since this ancient city emerged as a tourist attraction within Karnataka, it has been a prime spot for sightseeing and motorbikers, who would gather on the Hampi tourist places or hills in the region and host spiritual retreats. During a visit, individuals can learn a lot about the ancient Vijayanagara Empire, everything ranging from culture to architecture. There are tons of places to visit in Hampi, including hundreds of historical monuments, bastions, street markets, etc., belonging to the Vijayanagara Empire. Besides this, tourists can also indulge in a variety of activities during their trip. Some other fun things to do in Hampi include cycling, rock climbing, coracle rides, boating, shopping, etc.
The magnificent town of Hampi is located within the district of Vijayanagara in the state of Karnataka, India. It lies along the banks of the Tungabhadra River, surrounded by valleys and hills near the eastern state border. Hospet City, one of the best places near Hampi to visit, is about 13 kilometres to the southwest of this heritage site. The group of monuments at Hampi is also located within the town. Its official address is Hampi (town), Vijayanagara District, Karnataka, India. As for its distance from other major cities in the state, Hampi is 340 kilometres from Bengaluru, 61 kilometres from Ballari, 168 kilometres from Hubballi and 140 kilometres from Davanagere.
Kannada, the state’s official language, is predominantly spoken in Hampi and its surrounding region. Apart from this, tourists may also come across individuals speaking other languages, such as Urdu, Telugu and, sometimes, a little bit of Hindi. If tourists are unfamiliar with the local languages, they can try conversing in English with the residents and the tourist-driven local enterprises. Even though it sort of works as the unofficial prime medium for interactions, not everyone may understand it. Hence, it is best to hire a tour guide from the local villages, who will be able to help you convey your thoughts and explain the stories about the ancient attractions in the region.
A lot of factors are responsible for making Hampi a prominent tourist site within Karnataka. Here’s what the town is famous for:
The ancient city of Hampi is where history and nature collide in the most beautiful way. It is a place where tourists can not only spend time amidst the serene natural landscapes but also witness and learn about the ancient Vijayanagara Empire through the ruins. From monolithic structures and palaces to elephant stables and ruins of fortified walls, there’s a lot to see in Hampi. The place can also be considered a spiritual getaway, as most of its attractions are religious shrines, like Virupakhsa Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Badavilinga Temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, etc.
For individuals planning on visiting Hampi in Karnataka for a trip, here are some transport options to consider:
There are a lot of options for tourists planning on visiting Hampi via flight. Even though the temple town doesn’t have an airport of its own, there are several located in close proximity. For example, Bellary Airport is 60 km away, the JSW Vidyanagar Airport in Toranagallu is 40 km away, and the Hubli Airport is 143 km away. However, Bengaluru Airport is the best option in terms of wide connectivity and availability of frequent flights from reputed airlines. Once at the airport, individuals can easily cover the rest of the journey to Hampi via road or take domestic flights from Bengaluru to Hubli or Bellary and then hire a cab to reach the temple town.
Hampi doesn’t have its own rail connectivity, and the nearest train station to the city of ruins is Hospet Junction (HPT). Even though travelling by rail is a fast and economical option, tourists should know that there are only a few trains that pass through this station. It is advised to book tickets in advance as they get sold out quickly, especially during peak tourism season. Once at the Hospet Junction, individuals can opt for a bus, auto or cab to Hampi and cover the remaining 13 kilometres in less than 30-40 minutes.
Hampi has decent road connectivity, linking the heritage site to major cities in the state as well as the rest of the country. Individuals can drive to the town in their private or rental cars, which makes up for an exciting road trip. Hampi also has its own bus station, located near the Bazaar area. So, individuals can go for intercity or interstate buses to reach the town from places like Bangalore, Hubballi, Pune, Mumbai, etc.
Hampi is a place full of historical wonders and mysteries. Here are some interesting facts about the ancient town that you should know about:
Hampi is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Karnataka for individuals interested in history. It is home to hundreds of ancient monuments, most of which are in ruins while others still stand tall in pristine condition. The place not only paints an immaculate picture of the rich regional past but also talks a lot about the architectural brilliance and diverse culture of a glorious empire. Remnants of palaces, royal baths, elephant stables, etc., the site has a lot of interesting things to fuel curious minds.
Most of the ancient monuments in Hampi are religious shrines, including several Hindu temples, six Jain temples and a Muslim mosque and tomb. The intricate carvings and phenomenal architecture of these monuments are true works of wonder. So, besides history buffs and casual tourists, individuals interested in spiritual tours from the bygone era can also visit Hampi during their Karnataka holidays. Other than Hampi sightseeing, the ancient city is also a great spot for explorations and adventures. If bike riding, rock climbing, Coracle rides, shopping, etc., piques your interest, make sure to spend a day or two in Hampi.
Hampi, the city of ruins, is perfect for a visit around the year. Generally, the Hampi Archaeological Ruins are open to tourists from 6 AM to 6 PM. Tourists can visit the site any day of the week, however, it should be noted that the attractions within the site may have different operating hours.
|
Name |
Operating hours |
Ticket Price |
|
Vittala Temple |
6 AM to 6 PM |
INR 30/- per person (Indian) INR 500/- per person (Foreigners) Entry fee free for children (up to age 15) |
|
Virupaksha Temple |
Sunrise to Sunset |
INR 2/- per person INR 50/- for a still camera |
|
Archaelogy Museum in Kamalapura |
10 AM to 5 PM |
INR 5/- per person Entry fee free for children (up to age 15) |
|
Heritage Museum in Hampi Bazaar |
10 AM to 1 PM 3 PM to 6 PM |
No entry fee |
|
Queen’s Bath |
6 AM to 6 PM |
No entry fee |
|
Zenana Enclosure, Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stables |
6 AM to 6 PM |
Vittala Temple ticket is valid for these locations |
Probably one of the best amusement parks India has ever produced, Wonderla is the place for fun, frolic and endless hours of fun. With the range of adventurous rides it offers, Wonderla is exciting, challenging and extremely thrilling to be in. Located at around 30 kilometers from Bengaluru, Wonderla is the place flocked by IT professionals, college students, families and groups of friends from around the country. Be it the rides that offer a freefall, rollercoasters, or the more daunting Maverick, the park ensures you have a great time with your close ones.
28th km, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109
Families with kids and groups of friends
Easy to moderate
There are two types of tickets you can get at Wonderla – fasttrack tickets and regular tickets. While the regular tickets cost approximately Rs. 800 and 1000 for kids and adults respectively, the fasttrack tickets cost approximately Rs. 1800 and 1500 for adults and kids.
You can call it the Universal Studios of India thanks to the range of rides and thrills it offers. It is also one of the safest and well maintained amusement parks in India, making Wonderla a must visit attraction in Karnataka.
Weekends can become very crowded due to the proximity to Bengaluru. If you are in Karnataka during the weekdays, take a day off for Wonderla and go during the weekdays, when you can access all the rides without having to stand in line for long.
Dandeli is a fascinating and adventurous city situated on the Western Ghats in Uttarakhand popular for its lush dense deciduous forests, deep valleys, wildlife sanctuaries, bird watching, water sports, river side fishing, trekking on hilly terrains, mountain biking, night camps and scenic beauty. It is a mélange of astounding nature and exhilarating adventure that allures vacationers, making it a top tourist destination.
The best season to visit Dandeli is between October to May when the climate is pleasant for the water and other activities and also to spot the animals. Monsoons is best avoided due to heavy rainfalls making it unsuitable to enjoy the spots.
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Dandeli,+Uttarakhand+249146/@30.3126298,78.4664002,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x39091cb4d34f487b:0xefc1d674ac6a9a54!8m2!3d30.3117573!4d78.4766152
1.Kavala Caves - The exotic limestone Kavala caves is visited by tourists and especially by devotees of Lord Shiva to see an incredible creation of shivlinga formed by the volcanic activities. The cave is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites and to visit the inner sanctum one has to descend down 375 steps and carry a torch as the cave is pitch dark.
Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Daily.
2.Shiroli Peak – The highest peak in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, it offers a glorious view of the Western ghat’s Sahyadri range, picturesque sunset and is a good route for trekking as well. An ideal spot for nature and adventure seekers.
3.River Kali – River Kali offers a myriad of water activities, attracting majority of the adventure enthusiasts to Dandeli. Mercurial in nature, it caters to the excitement for both amateurs and professionals. White water rafting in Kali river is an enthralling experience of rafting through grade 2, 3 and 4 rapids over a 9 kilometer run under the supervision of an expert. Besides rafting, kayaking and canoeing are other activities that one can indulge in. Coracle boat riding, a saucer-shaped ‘boat’ made of bamboo and tanned buffalo hide is a beguiling experience to watch crocodiles in the water, and hornbills hovering in the sky. Moonlight boating is another activity for nature lovers to ride at night with night vision binoculars to see the nocturnal animals in the surrounding jungle which is home to deers and boars amongst others.
4.Kayaking - Kayaking activities are conducted in the Supa reservoir, which is a man-made reservoir that spreads over a huge area surrounded by teak plantations. There are small islets in between where one can camp in absolute privacy since the entire area is uninhabited.
5.Canyoning- Canyoning is a variant form of rappelling conducted in the Sathkonda Canyon near Dandeli. A challenging activity, it is the current rage and an adrenaline pumping experience of rappelling down steep rocks under the gushing waterfall (safety harness attached) using a combination of jumping, abseiling and natural water slides.
6.Rappelling - Climb the steepest rocky cliffs of Sahyadri mountains and careen down suspended on a rope. A thrilling activity conducted under the supervision of an expert, it is a must.
7.Wildlife Sanctuary – In an area of 834.16 sq km, it is second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka and was declared as one in 1956. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary offers a plethora of excitement for nature lovers and adventurers:
8.Flora - The entire forest area is covered with thick vegetation punctuated with bamboo and teak plants.
9.Fauna- Visitors are likely to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Malabar giant squirrels, barking deers, elephants, bisons, black panthers, Indian pangolin, Indian jackal, etc.
10.Birds – A haven for bird watchers, it is a thrill to see pied hornbills, bar winged flycatcher shrikes, crested serpent eagle, pompadour green pigeons, kingfisher, woodpecker, cuckoo, blue headed ground thrush, yellow browed bulbuls and many more.
11.Jungle Safari and Trekking – Explore the vast sanctuary in an open jeep safari, trekking on foot or mountain biking and feel the rush of spotting the wildlife amidst the lush green forest.
12.Camping – Indulge in overnight and outdoor camping for a different experience. Sync with nature as you camp at the banks of river Kali under the stars and with a spectacular view of the resident birds hovering in the sky.
An ideal retreat for an exciting adventure packed holiday amidst lush evergreen nature.
Flight: The nearest airport is Belgaum Airport, Karnataka about a distance of 90 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to Dandeli.
Train: The closest station is Alnaver railway station at a distance of 35 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to Dandeli
Road: Dandeli is well connected to major cities of India and several private and state buses ply to to the city. Private car and taxi can also be hired.
A local legend states that the city is named after Dandelappa, a local deity, a servant of the Mirashi landlords, who lost his life because of his loyalty. An alternative legend states that a king named Dandakanayaka passed through the forests and named them after himself, and the city is believed to stand on the place where Dandakaranya stood when he named the area.
Probably one of the best amusement parks India has ever produced, Wonderla is the place for fun, frolic and endless hours of fun. With the range of adventurous rides it offers, Wonderla is exciting, challenging and extremely thrilling to be in. Located at around 30 kilometers from Bengaluru, Wonderla is the place flocked by IT professionals, college students, families and groups of friends from around the country. Be it the rides that offer a freefall, rollercoasters, or the more daunting Maverick, the park ensures you have a great time with your close ones.
28th km, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109
Families with kids and groups of friends
Easy to moderate
There are two types of tickets you can get at Wonderla – fasttrack tickets and regular tickets. While the regular tickets cost approximately Rs. 800 and 1000 for kids and adults respectively, the fasttrack tickets cost approximately Rs. 1800 and 1500 for adults and kids.
You can call it the Universal Studios of India thanks to the range of rides and thrills it offers. It is also one of the safest and well maintained amusement parks in India, making Wonderla a must visit attraction in Karnataka.
Weekends can become very crowded due to the proximity to Bengaluru. If you are in Karnataka during the weekdays, take a day off for Wonderla and go during the weekdays, when you can access all the rides without having to stand in line for long.
Hampi is a small city in Karnataka that partly hosts a group of monuments and is declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is dotted with several ruins of temples and historical landmarks belonging to the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi was a part of that empire’s capital, Vijayanagara, back in the 14th century. But its existence is believed to predate even that rule, with its mentions being in the ancient epic, Ramayana. It has been a prime centre of Karnataka tourism in the state since the 1960s, attracting both casual tourists and history enthusiasts from all over the country and the world. It used to be an offbeat tourist attraction due to the lack of proper infrastructure. However, with hundreds of remarkable places to visit in Hampi, it has now become a prominent spot for tourism in the state.
Since this ancient city emerged as a tourist attraction within Karnataka, it has been a prime spot for sightseeing and motorbikers, who would gather on the Hampi tourist places or hills in the region and host spiritual retreats. During a visit, individuals can learn a lot about the ancient Vijayanagara Empire, everything ranging from culture to architecture. There are tons of places to visit in Hampi, including hundreds of historical monuments, bastions, street markets, etc., belonging to the Vijayanagara Empire. Besides this, tourists can also indulge in a variety of activities during their trip. Some other fun things to do in Hampi include cycling, rock climbing, coracle rides, boating, shopping, etc.
The magnificent town of Hampi is located within the district of Vijayanagara in the state of Karnataka, India. It lies along the banks of the Tungabhadra River, surrounded by valleys and hills near the eastern state border. Hospet City, one of the best places near Hampi to visit, is about 13 kilometres to the southwest of this heritage site. The group of monuments at Hampi is also located within the town. Its official address is Hampi (town), Vijayanagara District, Karnataka, India. As for its distance from other major cities in the state, Hampi is 340 kilometres from Bengaluru, 61 kilometres from Ballari, 168 kilometres from Hubballi and 140 kilometres from Davanagere.
Kannada, the state’s official language, is predominantly spoken in Hampi and its surrounding region. Apart from this, tourists may also come across individuals speaking other languages, such as Urdu, Telugu and, sometimes, a little bit of Hindi. If tourists are unfamiliar with the local languages, they can try conversing in English with the residents and the tourist-driven local enterprises. Even though it sort of works as the unofficial prime medium for interactions, not everyone may understand it. Hence, it is best to hire a tour guide from the local villages, who will be able to help you convey your thoughts and explain the stories about the ancient attractions in the region.
A lot of factors are responsible for making Hampi a prominent tourist site within Karnataka. Here’s what the town is famous for:
The ancient city of Hampi is where history and nature collide in the most beautiful way. It is a place where tourists can not only spend time amidst the serene natural landscapes but also witness and learn about the ancient Vijayanagara Empire through the ruins. From monolithic structures and palaces to elephant stables and ruins of fortified walls, there’s a lot to see in Hampi. The place can also be considered a spiritual getaway, as most of its attractions are religious shrines, like Virupakhsa Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Badavilinga Temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, etc.
For individuals planning on visiting Hampi in Karnataka for a trip, here are some transport options to consider:
There are a lot of options for tourists planning on visiting Hampi via flight. Even though the temple town doesn’t have an airport of its own, there are several located in close proximity. For example, Bellary Airport is 60 km away, the JSW Vidyanagar Airport in Toranagallu is 40 km away, and the Hubli Airport is 143 km away. However, Bengaluru Airport is the best option in terms of wide connectivity and availability of frequent flights from reputed airlines. Once at the airport, individuals can easily cover the rest of the journey to Hampi via road or take domestic flights from Bengaluru to Hubli or Bellary and then hire a cab to reach the temple town.
Hampi doesn’t have its own rail connectivity, and the nearest train station to the city of ruins is Hospet Junction (HPT). Even though travelling by rail is a fast and economical option, tourists should know that there are only a few trains that pass through this station. It is advised to book tickets in advance as they get sold out quickly, especially during peak tourism season. Once at the Hospet Junction, individuals can opt for a bus, auto or cab to Hampi and cover the remaining 13 kilometres in less than 30-40 minutes.
Hampi has decent road connectivity, linking the heritage site to major cities in the state as well as the rest of the country. Individuals can drive to the town in their private or rental cars, which makes up for an exciting road trip. Hampi also has its own bus station, located near the Bazaar area. So, individuals can go for intercity or interstate buses to reach the town from places like Bangalore, Hubballi, Pune, Mumbai, etc.
Hampi is a place full of historical wonders and mysteries. Here are some interesting facts about the ancient town that you should know about:
Hampi is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Karnataka for individuals interested in history. It is home to hundreds of ancient monuments, most of which are in ruins while others still stand tall in pristine condition. The place not only paints an immaculate picture of the rich regional past but also talks a lot about the architectural brilliance and diverse culture of a glorious empire. Remnants of palaces, royal baths, elephant stables, etc., the site has a lot of interesting things to fuel curious minds.
Most of the ancient monuments in Hampi are religious shrines, including several Hindu temples, six Jain temples and a Muslim mosque and tomb. The intricate carvings and phenomenal architecture of these monuments are true works of wonder. So, besides history buffs and casual tourists, individuals interested in spiritual tours from the bygone era can also visit Hampi during their Karnataka holidays. Other than Hampi sightseeing, the ancient city is also a great spot for explorations and adventures. If bike riding, rock climbing, Coracle rides, shopping, etc., piques your interest, make sure to spend a day or two in Hampi.
Hampi, the city of ruins, is perfect for a visit around the year. Generally, the Hampi Archaeological Ruins are open to tourists from 6 AM to 6 PM. Tourists can visit the site any day of the week, however, it should be noted that the attractions within the site may have different operating hours.
|
Name |
Operating hours |
Ticket Price |
|
Vittala Temple |
6 AM to 6 PM |
INR 30/- per person (Indian) INR 500/- per person (Foreigners) Entry fee free for children (up to age 15) |
|
Virupaksha Temple |
Sunrise to Sunset |
INR 2/- per person INR 50/- for a still camera |
|
Archaelogy Museum in Kamalapura |
10 AM to 5 PM |
INR 5/- per person Entry fee free for children (up to age 15) |
|
Heritage Museum in Hampi Bazaar |
10 AM to 1 PM 3 PM to 6 PM |
No entry fee |
|
Queen’s Bath |
6 AM to 6 PM |
No entry fee |
|
Zenana Enclosure, Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stables |
6 AM to 6 PM |
Vittala Temple ticket is valid for these locations |
Probably one of the best amusement parks India has ever produced, Wonderla is the place for fun, frolic and endless hours of fun. With the range of adventurous rides it offers, Wonderla is exciting, challenging and extremely thrilling to be in. Located at around 30 kilometers from Bengaluru, Wonderla is the place flocked by IT professionals, college students, families and groups of friends from around the country. Be it the rides that offer a freefall, rollercoasters, or the more daunting Maverick, the park ensures you have a great time with your close ones.
28th km, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109
Families with kids and groups of friends
Easy to moderate
There are two types of tickets you can get at Wonderla – fasttrack tickets and regular tickets. While the regular tickets cost approximately Rs. 800 and 1000 for kids and adults respectively, the fasttrack tickets cost approximately Rs. 1800 and 1500 for adults and kids.
You can call it the Universal Studios of India thanks to the range of rides and thrills it offers. It is also one of the safest and well maintained amusement parks in India, making Wonderla a must visit attraction in Karnataka.
Weekends can become very crowded due to the proximity to Bengaluru. If you are in Karnataka during the weekdays, take a day off for Wonderla and go during the weekdays, when you can access all the rides without having to stand in line for long.
Karnataka can be easily reached by air as there are several airports here, including one of the best airports in the country, the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. One of the busiest airports in India, KIAL receives flights from all over the world and several parts of the country. There are direct flights from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Jaipur and Kolkata along with various other smaller cities as well. Domestic airlines that operate out of here are IndiGo, Air India, Spicejet, Vistara, AirAsia etc. The airport is also connected to several international destinations too. Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, Malaysian Airlines, Emirates and several other airlines too fly to Bengaluru. The airport is at a distance from the city but there are several convenient ways to reach there including cab services such as Ola and Uber. There are regular buses which also take you to the airport at a very reasonable rate.
Karnataka’s other international airport in Mangalore is called Mangalore International Airport. While not as glamorous as the airport in Bengaluru, the Mangalore airport serves those who are coming in from the Middle East and Gulf countries. The airport is 13kms away from Mangalore city centre and is located on top of a hill.
Some of the other airports in Karnataka are:
A convenient and cost-effective way to reach Karnataka is by train. The City Railway Station in Bengaluru is the most important railway terminal here. Cities from all over the country are connected to Karnataka by the railways. Most major cities within Karnataka too are connected easily by train but there is limited connectivity in several sections of the interior state. Travellers from Mumbai or Hyderabad can find it quite easy to board a train to Karnataka as there are several trains available. Meanwhile, the Konkan Railway connects the coastal regions of Karnataka with other coastal cities such as Mumbai, Kochi and Goa. Karnataka’s total railway network is around 3089 kilometres. Travellers who want to enjoy a different experience can try the Golden Chariot, a luxury train that travels from Goa to Bengaluru via Mysore and Hampi. This tourist train is operated by Indian Railways and KSTDC.
Karnataka is well-connected to other parts of the country by roadways. It’s possible to travel to many of the major cities here as well as famous tourist destinations by road. Buses are run by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) which works for both interstate and intra-state destinations. Karnataka’s National Highways run for 3973kilometres and several small towns and district headquarters can be reached by road. You can also book KSRTC bus tickets online.
The other two bus services that connect Karnataka’s more remote areas with other towns and cities are NEKRTC (North Eastern Karnataka Road Transport Corporation) and NWKRTC (North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation). There are 15 national highways that link Karnataka with Kerala, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Thomas Cook took us on the most beautiful road trip starting from Mangalore and covering places like Udupi, Gokarna, Murudeshwar and Karwar. The requirement of an offbeat trip was very well understood by their team and the reason why this trip became possible. While other travel companies are still stuck in Goa and Manali, Thomas Cook are outdoing themselves.
We planned a trip to Coorg on our 5th anniversary and wanted to make it a pampering and rejuvenating experience. Keeping this in mind, Thomas Cook arranged our stay right next to a river. The camping experience in the wilderness was the best thing we could wish for. The lovely weather and serenity was outstanding from any of the previous trip that we have been to in the past.
Scuba diving experience near Mududeshwar is something out of the world. The hotel selected by them in Gokarna had views of Dolphins jumping in the Arabian Sea. Two of the most amazing things that happened in this trip are the reasons why I would recommend Thomas Cook over and over again.
