What to do and see in Karnataka, India: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do

August 5, 2021 Trinity Boughner

Karnataka is a state in the south western region of India. It was formed on 1 November 1956, with the passage of the States Reorganisation Act. Originally known as the State of Mysore, it was renamed Karnataka in 1973. The state corresponds to the Carnatic region. The capital and largest city is Bangalore (Bengaluru).
Restaurants in Karnataka

1. Group of Monuments at Hampi

Southern Bank of the River Tungabhadra, Hampi 583239 India
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5.0 based on 598 reviews

Group of Monuments at Hampi

Reviewed By abhimanasu - Mandya, India

Hampi is a beautiful and hoistoric place in India there is someny things to see most are templs which are build in year back.Hampi is a magnificent city of ruins, located besides the Tungabhadra river in the state of Karnataka. It is about 352 kms from Bangalore. But heavy crowded places during december as many schools are orgainizing trips to hampi as as historical place.

2. Agadi Thota

Kunnur Halli, Tadas Hangal Road Shiggaon, Hubli-Dharwad 580031 India +91 78995 81866 [email protected] http://www.agadithota.com
Excellent
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5.0 based on 236 reviews

Agadi Thota

Agadi Thota is a one day activity place.People of all age group can hangout along with various activities and also food and snacks is served.

Reviewed By lokesh_si - Bengaluru, India

One of the best and awesome place for weekend with friends and family outing The best part of Agadi Thota is Village culture, tradition, hospitality. Well maintained staff, good ambiance, Children can enjoy Thrilling activities like camel raid, boating, bullock cart, tanga ride, horse ride, musical chair, Group dance, Dandiya dance Garba dance, Puppet show etc.. The mouth watering, delicious food they serve The complete traditional north karnataka Javari roti lunch, fruits, sugar cane juice and finaly the best in class evening snacks Mirchi bajji with kara mandakki and hot tea really awesome. !! Mann kare bar bar jaye !! enjoyed you can enjoy the of the best north Karnataka really looking for the best place for week end chill out It is one of the best and awesome place for weekend to visit we enjoyed

3. Mercara Gold Estate Coffee Plantation

Katekeri Road, Madikeri 571201 India +91 96771 29651 [email protected] http://www.mercaragoldestate.com
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5.0 based on 199 reviews

Mercara Gold Estate Coffee Plantation

Mercara Gold Estate is a 20 year old coffee and spice farm 8 KM from Madikeri, Coorg. The farm is unique as all the spices are grown and well organised. There is also coffee processing and roasting at the estate itself. The estate offers a guided tour of the farm and visitors are introduced to all the different crops as well as roasting process. The tour takes about a hour and coffee is served at the end of it. Visitors also can buy some farm fresh products.

Reviewed By MilinGeorge

We were guided by Mr Ravi. He is very kind and knowledgeable guide who has a good knowledge about the plantation and explained everything about verities of coffee and spices. Enjoyed the plantation visit especially my son Evan he enjoyed walking through that plantation with Mr Ravi.

4. Mysuru Palace

Sayyaji Rao Rd Agrahara, Chamrajpura, Mysuru (Mysore) 570001 India 0821 242 1051 [email protected] https://www.mysorepalace.gov.in
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4.5 based on 6,222 reviews

Mysuru Palace

This 1912 structure is one of the largest palaces in the country and contains art from around the world.

Reviewed By monideepad - Bangalore District, India

We reached the Mysore Palace at 1pm sharp and after parking the car in the parking lot, we proceeded to buy the tickets at the counter by the side of the gate, the South Entrance. There are different categories of entrance fares with concessions for students and large groups. For Indian adults it is ₹50/- per ticket whereas for foreign nationals it is ₹200/- per ticket. The Palace, which is presently converted into a museum is one of the most visited tourist destinations of the country. Being a Sunday, there was a huge influx of tourists, predominantly large groups and we had to elbow our way to where we needed to obtain bags, to put our footwear into them and then deposit the bags at the counter after obtaining a token. Before entering in the palace, we spent some time trying to absorb the magnificence of its exterior and to know a bit about it. The historical Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a royal residence and also the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty at Mysore, Karnataka. It is located in the heart of Mysore and since the Kings of Mysore were devotees of Goddess Chamundi, the palace faces the Chamundi Hills in the eastward direction. The three storey stone structure with a five storey tower rising to the height of 145feet is made of fine grey granite with pink marble domes. It is said to be in the lines of the Inso-Saracenic style of architecture which is a blend of Hindu, Mughal, Neo-Classical and Gothic styles. The construction of the palace took place between 1897 and 1912, in order to replace the old wooden palace that was destroyed by fire.. Set amidst a large, lovely garden, the palace has three entrances, the East Entrance is opened for VVIPs and dignitaries and during Dasara while the West Entrances is opened only during Dasara and the South Entrance which is used by the public. The facade of the palace has several wide and beautiful arches adorning it with a central arch, supported by tall pillars and flanked by two smaller ones. A sculpture of Gajalakshmi with her elephants, the Goddess of wealth, fortune, prosperity, abundance is placed above the central arch. The entrance gate and arch hold the emblem and coat of arms of the Kingdom of Mysore. The magnificent palace houses two ornate durbar halls, several colossal courtyards and sprawling, splendid gardens. After the preliminary security formalities of passing through metal detectors and baggage check, we entered through a large door and went through the display of gold and silver statues, and many other stately artefacts. We went through the finely chiselled, beautifully embellished doors that led us through wide corridors which had on the walls, beautiful paintings on the wall depicting many processions and elaborate rituals of Dasara celebrations to richly and elegantly ornate rooms. The ceilings and the posts had beautiful patterns crafted on them. The large Durbar Hall with large with exquisite columns richly painted with gold and subtle colours, large candelabras and chandeliers hanging from ornate ceilings, the solid silver doors, the intricately carved mahogany ceilings and many other embellishments of the palace are overpowering in its magnificence and splendour. while giving an idea of the exuberant lifestyle of the royals. Displays in the palace include an array of superb paintings mostly of the kings, queens and their children, gift boxes received from other kings and dignitaries, royal dresses, souvenirs, musical instruments and weapons used by the Wodeyars. At the end of the tour, we come to where the Mysore Dasara Elephants Ornaments that adorn the elephants at the time of the Dasara celebrations are displayed. The size and splendour of the palace far exceeded my expectations... and after strolling through all the rooms open for viewing for almost two hours, we made our exit. Having had the opportunity of visiting some palaces and castles during my recent trip to the United Kingdom, I personally feel that the richness and opulence of the Mysore Palace is at par or even more. But we can go a long way and do much better in terms of managing the tourists, maybe with more manpower, offer better audio-visual aids and professional guides.

5. ISKCON Temple Bangalore

Chord Road Hare Krishna Hill, Bengaluru 560010 India +91 98101 15661 [email protected] http://www.iskconbangalore.org/
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4.5 based on 4,803 reviews

ISKCON Temple Bangalore

ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna temple was inaugurated in the year 1997. It is not just a temple, but a cultural complex housing the temples dedicated to the Deities of Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra, Sri Sri Krishna Balarama, Sri Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Srinivasa Govinda, Sri Prahlada Narasimha, Bhakta Hanuman, Garudadeva and Srila Prabhupada, Founder Acharya of ISKCON. ISKCON Bangalore is a charitable society with the objective of propagating Krishna Consciousness all over the world, as explained by Srila Prabhupada, whose teachings are based on Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.

Reviewed By Wanderer795421

Best place to visit if you are in Bangalore Serene peaceful great hangout place delicious food must visit place in Bangalore great people great learning kitchen with cooks more than 500000 mails daily e must visit to get peace of mind great meditation place gorgeous decoration best meditation centre

6. Somnathpur Temple

Keshava Temple, Somanathapura Somanathapura Village, Mysuru (Mysore) 571120 India +91 99637 60196 http://www.mysoretourism.org.in/somnathpur-temple-chennakesava-temple-near-mysore
Excellent
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4.5 based on 927 reviews

Somnathpur Temple

Reviewed By NS124

This temple is a must see for all who visit Mysore! The architecture and carvings are well maintained. Make sure to have a local tour guide who is able to speak upon the details of the carvings along the outer walls & within the sanctum; because those details help to put this temple into its historical context as well as provide a greater understanding & appreciation for key figures in the Hindu faith.

7. Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens

Indiranagar Near Mysore Palace, Mysuru (Mysore) 570 010 India +91 821 244 0752 http://mysorezoo.info
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4.5 based on 3,286 reviews

Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens

Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, popularly known as ‘Mysuru Zoo’, is one of the oldest zoos of the country established in 1892, by His Highness, the erstwhile Ruler of Mysuru Sri Chamarajendra Wadiyar Bahadur. Mysuru Zoo holds an important place in Karnataka. In 1909 the Palace Zoo was named as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens to commemorate the illustrious founder and since then it bears the nomenclature. Mysuru Zoo has gradually grown into tourist centre, imparting wildlife values. It has got 123 years of history exhibiting wild animals in the near natural enclosures. Despite majority of the zoos have been shifted from the original place to the new places, Mysuru Zoo could modernize the zoo, without shifting the zoo. The zoo is well compacted unit, with modern animal enclosures including heritage buildings attracting tourists all over the world.

Reviewed By Ramse1955 - Bengaluru, India

1. We visited Mysore Zoo a couple of days back. This zoo is world class. It is neat, clean and the upkeep of the animals & surroundings is extremely good. The animals are well fed and they look healthy. 2. We visited the zoo in the afternoon and most of the animals were outside the cages and visitors could watch the animals. 3. The full circuit within the zoo is ~ 4 Kms. For those who find it difficult to walk, there are electric cars to take them around. The entire trip takes about an hour. 4. You can see all the big cats, elephants, rhinos, hippos, bears, gaur, different types of monkeys, parrots & lots of birds ....... 5. The boards give you valuable information about the anmals. 5. I have visited this zoo after ages with my grandson and it was a pleasure going to the Mysore zoo. 6. Kudos to the zoo staff for their hard work & dedication in maintaining the zoo and taking care of the animals.

8. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Srirangapatna Krishnarajasagar dam road, 571427 India +91 82322 24600 http://www.mysore.nic.in/tourism_ranganatittu_bird_sanctuary.htm
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4.5 based on 589 reviews

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu is a bird sanctuary that can be visited throughout the year by bird lovers. Easily accessible from Bangalore, enroute to Mysore, visiting this place is a great option for both children and adults. Visit early in the morning and hire a boat. November heralds in the winter migrants who stay put until March, adding to the already numerous varieties of birds you can see here.

Reviewed By jannetnorthop - Bengaluru, India

A well preserved bird sanctuary that one can escape into, from the bursting cities and pollution. A soothing boat ride on the calm waters and the view of various species of birds flying, nesting, bathing, catching prey or just lazily perched on a branch or a twig is mesmerizing. Crocodiles, bats and tiny animals add charm to this nature's beauty. It is like winning a lottery for wildlife and nature photography lovers. The boats sail pretty close to most of the islands although, stepping on those islands is strictly prohibited. There are a few pathways and benches amid the green on the mainland, to either take a stroll or sit back and enjoy the chirping of birds and other pleasant sounds of nature. There are a few watch towers to enjoy the view if one is not hydrophobic. There is a souvenir shop, a small bird museum , a few food carts and clean washrooms. Entry fee for Indians - Adult: Rs.50/- Child: Rs.25/- Entry fee for Foreigners - Adult: Rs.300/- Boating Charges - Indians: Adult: Rs.50/- Child: Rs.25/- Foreigners: Adult: Rs.300/- Parking Fees - Bus: Rs.125/- LCV: Rs.75/- Car: Rs.30/- Motor Cycle: Rs.15/- Bicycle: Rs.5/- Camera charges applicable as per lens power.

9. Wonderla Amusement Park

28th km Mysore Road, Bengaluru 562109 India +91 99455 57777 [email protected] http://www.wonderla.com/
Excellent
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4.5 based on 4,233 reviews

Wonderla Amusement Park

Wonderla Holidays Limited, is the No. 1 amusement park operator in India. Promoted by Arun K. Chittilappilly and Kochouseph Chittilappilly, Wonderla currently owns and operates three amusement parks – one each in Kochi, Bangalore and Hyderabad respectively and a resort in Bangalore. Wonderla Kochi, spread over 35 acres of land, is thrilling visitors with 56 rides since 2000. Wonderla Bangalore, spanning over 82 acres, offers a spectacular range of entertainment with 61 rides. Wonderla Hyderabad, the latest edition in the portfolio, is spread over 50 acres and offers 43 attractions. Wonderla Amusement Park has been ranked No. 1 in India and No. 6 in Asia by TripAdvisor for 5 consecutive years. Wonderla Resort, located beside the amusement park in Bangalore, comprises of 84 luxury rooms, with amenities including 4 full-fledged banquet halls, multi cuisine restaurant, rest-o-bar and recreational facilities like a heated swimming pool, kid’s activity centre & a full fledged gym.

Reviewed By Fatty1187

I visited wonderla in April that is during summer and it was the day spent well..It's fun to go around with friends and who can manage thriller rides..there are in total 10 thriller rides..My fav Outta them is insanity and Equinox..then we have water slides and rain dance too.. We have to be there by 11:30 so that we can enjoy all the rides..and there is a proper lunch and snacks facilities provided..no outside food is allowed..

10. Art of Living International Center

21st Km Kanakapura Road Udayapura, Bengaluru 560082 India +91 90360 05022 [email protected] http://www.bangaloreashram.org
Excellent
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4.5 based on 1,225 reviews

Art of Living International Center

Welcome to The Art of Living International Centre! Situated on the top of the Panchagiri Hills, 36km southwest of Bangalore, near Udipalya village, the campus is an ideal location for reflection and rejuvenation. Started in 1986 and spread over 65 acres, the campus has an abundance of flowering foliage spread along winding footpaths, a peaceful lake and the exquisitely beautiful Vishalakshi Mantap, the central meditation hall. Satsangs, held every evening, are gatherings where different minds unite through music, meditation, and wisdom to experience an elevated state of consciousness. Through Seva (voluntary service) one can experience the humble satisfaction of doing selfless work here, from serving food in the kitchen to keeping the premises clean to working in the various departments that focus on various projects and the ashram's upkeep. The Vishalakshi Mantap, named after 'Amma', Sri Sri's mother, is the main Meditation Hall in the form of a fully blossomed 1000 petal lotus. Its reflective dome that mirrors the sun during the day is lit up at night to a synchronized change of colored lights. The dome and golden spire that can be viewed from all parts of the sprawling campus grounds play the role of a compass - lending a sense of navigation to the spiritual seeker. Courses are held in various rooms at different levels of the mantap and satsangs are held on the main level. Each level opens onto a gallery. Following a circular design, the levels provide an excellent view of the campus grounds and the open grounds and hills in the distance. Built on a smaller scale, is the Sumeru Mantap in the more secluded, old ashram campus. When the campus was newly set up, and there was a much smaller gathering of people, satsangs were held here. It is a circular 3 tiered gallery with a garden in the center and the sky for a roof, dominated by a large densely foliaged banyan tree in the center. The Radha Kund gardens recapture the mystical garden of Vrindavan, replete with a pair of elephants, a pair of geese, a deer, some rabbits and a number of exotic birds! This is an excellent place to observe various birds as they sweep over the lake - and a good place to unwind, reflect and take stock of one's life. From the gardens one can hear the Sanskrit chantings of the boys at the Gurukul nearby. The seven year training program at the Gurukul teaches students how to conduct temple rituals. The course syllabus also includes study of the Veda, Agama, Sanskrit, Astrology, Yoga, music, Sculpture, Epics and scriptures. The Goshala, home to over 250 cows, is an important project undertaken to preserve the native breed of Indian cows. The cows enjoy human company and visitors receive great pleasure brushing and petting the cows. For those who wish to simply relax, The Sri Sri Ayurveda Panchakarma (Wellness Spa) offers the ideal retreat for body and mind. Apart from the super ambience and food, one can select from a number of rejuvenating therapy packages the spa offers. On campus is a very popular, vibrant eatery, The Vishala Cafe that serves Indian and Continental fast food. It is here that youngsters like to meet, relax, exchange ideas, play the piano or eat a filling meal while reading from the selection of books displayed at the cafe. An array of shops are also present on campus - two Divine shops (selling music and books), The Divine Services (a provision store), Madhurya (traditional artefacts, gifts), Sri Kriti (a boutique that sells hand made products by rural women and traditional craftmen) and Sri Sri Agriculture with its fresh produce of fruits and vegetables grown on campus. The Bangalore Campus makes for a truly self-contained retreat - your home away from home!

Reviewed By Chetan_V - Bengaluru, India

I attended one day event at art of living ashram during Feb 2020. It was great opportunity to meet with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as well!

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