State of Karnataka Hotels India

Karnataka is bordered by the Arabian Sea in the west and Goa to the northwest, while Kerala lies to the south. It’s the eighth largest state in India and has three main regions. The coastal plains that extend between the edge of the Karnataka Plateau in the east, and the Arabian Sea in the West; the Western Ghats running parallel to the coastline; and the inland plains of the Deccan Plateau. One of the most industrialised states in India, Karnataka produces almost all of India's gold, and over half of its coffee. Bangalore (now called Bengaluru) is the biggest regional city and the capital, recently called the Silicon Valley of India because it’s home to half of India’s software companies.

Once known as Mysore State, Karnataka has a mix of natural attractions and superb historic architecture. The state offers temples, wildlife, treks, beaches and chains of mountains, the highest being the Mullayyana Giri at 1,925 metres. The Western Ghats, also called the Malnad, have wonderful forests with impressive waterfalls because three large rivers originate there; the Cauvery, the Tungabadra, and the Krishna.

If it’s the nature of India you would like to discover then look no further than Jog falls in the Shimoga District, these waterfalls drop from a height of 253 metres and as such they are the highest waterfalls in India. Another natural wonder in the region is the Bandipur National Park in the Chamarajanagar district, a great wildlife sanctuary, why not take a tour to see tigers and elephants through this beautiful sandalwood forest reserve. Alternatively, visit one of the UNESCO world heritage sites in the region, the Hampi ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire predate the city of Vijayanagara and continue to be an important religious centre as they house the Virupaksha Temple.

If you want to stay near Hampi then try the Shanthi Guest House located across the river it offers great cottage style bungalows. Alternatively, for a Bangalore experience you won’t forget try the excellent 5 star Oberoi Bangalore, this luxury hotel has a prize winning landscaped garden and tries to create an oasis of calm in the bustling district. If it’s Bandipur National Park that you would like to visit then the eco friendly Dholes Den resort would be a good choice to truly experience rural India.