23 Jan 2023
From the Chalukyas to the Vijayanagara Empire to the British Empire, Karnataka has been an active part of the history of India.
While Karnataka is rich in natural beauty, the remnants of the numerous empires are evident in the historical sites spread across the state.
Take a look at this list of Historical places in Karnataka you should visit to understand the true heritage of the state.
1. Hampi
The City Of Ruins, Hampi, is known for its ancient monuments, temples and, most importantly, the remains from the Vijayanagar Empire.
Hampi was formerly the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This open museum houses over 500 ancient temples, archaeological sites, bastions and treasury buildings. Some sights that you must see include Virupaksha Temple, Vithala Temple, Hanuman Temple, and Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex, among others.
Aside from the heritage tour, you can also trek, camp on hilly terrains, and go cliff jumping with trained instructors.
The best time to visit Hampi would be from October to February. Remember, during monsoons, the hill roads can become slippery and dangerous. A few monuments may even be submerged underwater, so plan your trip accordingly.
If you’re planning a trip to Hampi, get in touch with Skyway Tour, where we offer you a range of affordable Karnataka Tour Packages.
2. Belur & Halebidu
Located less than 200 km from Bengaluru, this temple-architecture capital of Karnataka boats the ancient Hoysala architecture in the towns of Belur and Halebid.
Famous for its age-old Hindu and Jain temples, the towns provide an insight into the rich history of the Hoysala dynasty.
The oldest temple is Sankareswari Temple, while the most visited temples are the Chennakeshava Temple and Hasanamba Temple.
While you’re in Halebidu, you should visit Hoysaleswara and Kedareshwara temples to soak in the history of the former empire.
A town you should visit in the Hassan district is Shravanabelagola. It is home to the tallest statue of Lord Gometeshwara. After nearly 700 steps on the rock face, you climb up to one of the world’s tallest free-standing monolithic statues.
You can also find the influences of this unique architecture at the Shettihalli Church, Lakshmi Devi Temple, Maharaja Park, and Gorur Dam.
You can easily drive from Hassan to Sakleshpur, Belur, and Halebidu. It’s best to explore these cities from September to March.
3. Badami
Another historical city in Karnataka and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Badami used to be the regal capital of the Chalukyas.
Famous for the Badami caves, the rock-cut Temples of Mahakuta is a famous historical site built in the 7th century. Located on the banks of the Agastya Teertha Lake, these caves consist of 4 intricately carved pillars dedicated to Lord Shiva.
You can explore more of the Dravidian architecture at the Badami Fort, Agastya Laka, Bhutanatha Temples, and Jambulingesvara Temple.
While you’re in Badami, you can go rock climbing, take archaeological tours and explore the cave temples. The best time to visit Badami would be from June to March.
If you’re looking for Glimpses of Karnataka, Skyway Tour can help you make your trip planning easier!
4. Aihole and Pattadakal
With over 125 Chalukyan temples and structures, Aihole is the Temple Complex of Karnataka and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The intricately carved temples are surrounded by sandstone hills and the river Malaprabha, gifting your eyes with a marvelous view. The most prominent historical site in Aihole is the Durga Temple, which also houses an art gallery and archaeological museum.
Along with its Hindu and Jain temples, Aihole also houses a Buddhist monument carved on a rock dedicated to Lord Buddha.
Pattadakal is another UNESCO Heritage Site, part of the Badami-Aihole-Pattadakal complex.
The main attraction is the Virupaksha Temple, showcasing the sculptures of Ugra Narasimha and Nataraja.
You can also visit the Papanatha Temple, Galaganatha Temple, and Sangameshwara Temple. The Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are a seamless blend of South and North Indian architecture.
The best time to visit would be from October to March.
5. Mysore
The home of the Mysore Maharajas, Mysore is rightly called the City of Palaces.
Now called Mysore, the city was the home of the Wadiyar rulers for more than seven centuries. And the empire's influence still resides in the royal buildings and bazaars!
Remnants of the colonial influence can be seen in the infamous Mysore Palace. The palace boasts Indo-Saracenic architecture with intricate walls, beautiful paintings and stained glass windows. Fun fact: The present royal family of Mysore still resides in the private palace!
You should also visit Lalitha Mahal, Jagmohan Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Chamundi Hill, Mysore Zoo, and Karanji Lake.
You can also buy souvenirs from bustling markets like Khadi cotton, sandalwood products, and incense sticks. Don’t forget to try out the Mysore Pak!
The best part of Mysore is that you visit the city at any time of the year. We suggest you take a trip during Dussehra to experience the true spirit of Mysore.
Take a look at Skyway Mysore tour packages, and let us help you book your vacation to Mysore!
6. Bangalore
Now, a bustling silicon valley, Bangalore hosts palaces and forts along with its hip eateries and lush greenery.
Bangalore has been an integral part of India's history, offering a peek into the cultural, religious and political history with its forts, monuments and statues.
You should visit the Bangalore Palace. Built in the year 1878 by the Wadiyars, the palace showcases Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture in every inch.
While taking the Bangalore city tour, you can also visit the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, the National Gallery Of Modern Art, and Vidhana Soudha.
The best time to visit Bangalore is during the winter months, from September to June.
7. Bidar
An important seat for numerous dynasties, Bidar is an important historical place in Karnataka.
Once the seat of Chalukyas, Allaludin Khilji and Muhammad bin Tughluq, the city houses numerous sites and monuments reflecting the legacy of the rulers.
You can visit the Bidar Fort, Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple, Bahmani Tombs, Papnash Shiva Temple and Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib.
The best time to visit would be from October to March.
8. Bijapur
Bijapur is famous for housing the biggest domes in India. You can see the influence of the Chalukyas among all the monuments, temples and elaborate gardens.
Bijapur is known for its world-famous Gol Gumbaz. The monument is a mausoleum of Mohammad Adil Shah, once a sultan of Bijapur. The highlight of the monument is its Whispering Gallery; even the faintest of whispers echo across the dome.
You can also visit the Bijapur Citadel, Ibrahim Rauza, Shivagiri, Jamia Masjid and Bara Kaman. The best time to visit Bijapur would be from October to February.
9. Srirangapatna
Known for its intricate architecture on monuments and temples, Srirangapatna was the home of the Vijayanagara and Hoysala kingdoms. The town earns its name from the Sri Ranganatha temple, one of the largest temples in Karnataka.
This island in River Cauvery houses numerous architectural marvels, waterfalls, and exquisite temples.
Apart from the infamous Ranganathaswamy Temple, you can also visit the Dariya Daulat Bagh, which was Tipu Sultan’s summer palace. Brindavan Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in India, is located in Srirangapatna.
Gumbaz is another monument you shouldn’t miss. A mausoleum for Tipu Sultan and his parents, it is the largest domed structure in India.
You should also visit the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Srirangapatna Fort, Jama Masjid, and Balmuri Falls. The best time to visit would be from July to March.
Are you planning a historical trip to Karnataka with the best tour operator in Karnataka? Skyway Tour has the perfect Karnataka holiday packages, which you customise as you wish!
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