Karnataka - Carnatic Music OR The Capital of Agarbathi (Incense Sticks), Arecanut, Silk, Coffee and Sandal Wood

The amazingly beautiful state of Karnataka is the eight largest state of India and extends from the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats to the drier region of the Deccan Plateau. Located across the Vindhyas, Karnataka reminds one of a precious jewel tucked away in a corner of the country as if to hide it from others.

It has a mystical charm of sorts and is a little less vocal in proclaiming its tourist appeal before the world like, for example, Kerala and Rajasthan. Still, the state manages to appeal the discerning visitors who visit it from all corners of the globe to discover the southern Indian wonder called Karnataka.

The landscape of Karnataka is varied, with an astonishingly stunning coast, flatland plains and several mountains. Dotted with hill stations, beach resorts and architectural monuments, making it a lovely destination for all types of tourists, Karnataka also boasts of many famed tourist hotpots, including Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hampi, Gulbarga, Badami, and Bijapur.

While Bangalore is its capital and one of the most beautiful cities of the country, Mysore, Hampi, Gulbarga, Badami and Bijapur are historical destinations with a rich history. These tourist hotpots boast of an impressive array of architectural wonders and imposing ancient monuments which are a treat for the human eyes.

Halebedu, Belur and Somanathapura temples are big architectural wonders - the likes of which are hard to find in the other parts of the country. The temples at Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal in Bijapur are also no less famous. The monolithic statue of Gommateshwara is one of its kinds found in the world.

The unique culture of Karnataka also much attracts the tourists and so does its rich and varied wildlife which boasts of a remarkable array of flora and fauna found in the many wildlife and nature reserves (Nagarhole, Dandeli and Bandipur).

The article on Karnataka would be incomplete without the mention of the world famous Brindavan Gardens at Krishnarajasagara, and the Jog Falls located in the Shimoga Distirct of the state. While the Brindavan Gardens is one of the best laid out terrace gardens that one may come across anywhere, the beautiful Jog Falls is the highest plunge waterfall in the country and perhaps the USP of the state.