Top 17 Road Trips in Karnataka
Embarking on road trips in Karnataka is not just about the destinations but also about journeys filled with breathtaking views, historical landmarks, and unique cultures. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Karnataka road trip itineraries promise enriching and exhilarating experiences.
List of Road Trip Destinations in Karnataka
17 Places for Road Trip in Karnataka with your Family/Friends
Explore 17 of Karnataka's best road trip destinations, providing a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty for your next journey:
1. Bangalore
The cosmopolitan hub and wealthiest place of Karnataka, Bangalore, is an excellent starting point for various road trips. A drive from Bangalore to any part of Karnataka is a journey through bustling cities, quaint villages, and scenic landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Popularity: Nightlife, parks, heritage sites and tech culture.
- Activities to Do: Visit Bangalore Palace, museums, modern art galleries, and temples and try local street food items.
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2. Hampi
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is a treasure trove of ancient ruins and temples set amidst surreal boulder-strewn landscapes. The road trip to Hampi offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Karnataka's rich history.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Popularity: Ancient temples, cultural heritage and spiritual significance.
- Activities to Do: Explore ancient temples, visit the Elephant Stables, and enjoy coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River.
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3. Coorg
Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Coorg beckons with its misty mountains, lush coffee plantations, and serene waterfalls. The road trip to Coorg is a rejuvenating escape into nature's embrace. Coorg is the coolest place to visit in Karnataka.
- Best Time to Visit: September to June.
- Popularity: Coffee plantations, waterfalls and panoramic views.
- Activities to Do: Trekking, river rafting, visiting coffee plantations, and cultural tours.
4. Mysore
Known as the City of Palaces, Mysore is a blend of royal grandeur and cultural heritage. The road trip to Mysore offers a glimpse into Karnataka's regal past, with its magnificent palaces and vibrant markets.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Popularity: Heritage city, Artifacts of sandalwood and rosewood.
- Activities to Do: City Palaces visits, zoo exploration, and shopping.
5. Badami
Steeped in history, Badami is renowned for its ancient cave temples carved from sandstone cliffs. The road trip to Badami takes you on a journey back in time amidst breathtaking rock-cut architecture.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April.
- Popularity: Badami Cave Temples, Agastya Lake, Banashankari Temple.
- Activities to do: Explore the cave temples and trek to the Badami Fort.
6. Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is a popular hill station near Bangalore, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The road trip to Nandi Hills is a scenic drive through winding roads and verdant landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: September to May.
- Popularity: Sunrise views, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple.
- Activities to do: Watch the sunrise, go trekking, paragliding, visit Tipu Sultan's fort.
7. Chikmagalur
Known as the 'Coffee Land of Karnataka', Chikmagalur is blessed with lush greenery, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls. The road trip to Chikmagalur promises a tranquil retreat amidst verdant landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February.
- Popularity: Coffee plantation, trekking trails and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Activities to Do: Trekking, coffee plantation tours, and wildlife safaris.
8. Sakleshpur
A hidden gem in the Western Ghats known as the Switzerland of Karnataka, Sakleshpur is a paradise for nature lovers. The road trip to Sakleshpur offers mesmerising vistas of rolling hills, dense forests, and gushing streams.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Popularity: Manjarabad fort, Hemavati dam, coffee and spice plantation.
- Activities to Do: Hiking the Green Route, visiting Manjarabad Fort, and plantation.
9. Pattadakal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pattadakal is renowned for its exquisite temples showcasing a blend of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles. The road trip to Pattadakal is a journey through Karnataka's rich cultural heritage.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Popularity: Pattadakal Group of Monuments, Virupaksha Temple, Sangameshwara Temple.
- Activities to do: Explore the temple complex and witness intricate carvings.
10. Yana Caves
Tucked away in the Sahyadri Mountain Range, Yana Caves are a geological marvel comprising unique rock formations and ancient cave temples. The road trip to Yana Caves offers an offbeat adventure amidst serene surroundings.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February.
- Popularity: Yana rock formations, Bhairaveshwara Temple and Vibhooti Falls.
- Activities to do: Trekking to Yana Rocks, exploring the caves, and visiting nearby Vibhooti Falls.
11. Kannur
Located in the northern part of Karnataka, Kannur boasts a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The road trip to Kannur treats travellers to mesmerising views of the Western Ghats and verdant landscapes dotted with coffee plantations.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Popularity: Beaches, Malabar cuisine, forts and handloom heritage.
- Activities to Do: Beach visits, historical tours, and cultural experiences.
12. Shravanabelagola
Embark on a spiritual journey as you drive to Shravanabelagola, home to the towering monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara. The road trip to this sacred Jain pilgrimage site is adorned with picturesque countryside views.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April.
- Popularity: Hemagiri Falls, 18-meter Gommateshwara statue and 57-foot tall Bahubali statue.
- Activities to Do: Climb Vindhyagiri Hill to see the statue and visit Chandragiri Hill for ancient temples.
13. Srirangapatna
Steeped in history and mythology, Srirangapatna is a charming town located on the banks of the River Kaveri. The road trip to Srirangapatna unfolds against the backdrop of lush paddy fields, offering glimpses of Karnataka's rural charm.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Popularity: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and Tipu’s mosque.
- Activities to Do: Explore Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, and see the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.
14. Mangalore
Situated on the picturesque Malabar Coast, Mangalore is a vibrant port city known for its scenic beauty and cultural diversity. A trip to Mangalore offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea coastline and an opportunity to explore Karnataka's coastal charm.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Popularity: 3D Planetarium, Pilikula Nisarga Dhama Park, Temples, and Tea plantation.
- Activities to Do: Explore the planetarium, parks and temples and visit tea plantations.
15. Siddapur
Tucked away in the verdant forests of the Western Ghats, Siddapur is a tranquil haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The road trip to Siddapur winds through dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.
- Best Time to Visit: October to January.
- Popularity: Known among those seeking peace and natural beauty.
- Activities to Do: Plantation tours, bird watching, and visiting Murudeshwara temple.
16. Kakkabe
Perched amidst the mist-covered hills of Coorg, Kakkabe is a serene hamlet known for its lush coffee plantations, verdant landscapes, and tranquil ambience. The road trip to Kakkabe offers an opportunity to explore Karnataka's coffee culture.
- Best Time to Visit: September to May.
- Popularity: Igguthappa temple, Nalknad palace, coffee plantation, wildlife and treks.
- Activities to Do: Trekking, bird watching, palace tours, and visit the temple and coffee plantation.
17. Halebid
Steeped in history and architectural splendour, Halebid is a treasure trove of ancient temples and sculptural marvels. The road trip to Halebid takes travellers on a journey back in time, with its magnificent Hoysala temples and rich cultural heritage.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Popularity: Hoyaleswara temple, Archaeological Museum and Yagachi Dam
- Activities to Do: Temple visits, photography, and historical tours.
Road trips in Karnataka offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the state's rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Each destination on this Karnataka road trip plan brings its own unique experiences and adventures, making Karnataka a treasure trove for road trippers.
FAQs about Road Trips in Karnataka
Which place is best for a 3-day road trip in Karnataka?
Coorg and Badami are the ideal destinations for a 3-day road trip in Karnataka, offering serene landscapes, coffee plantations, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
What is the best time to plan a road trip in Karnataka?
The best time to plan a road trip in Karnataka is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural attractions of the region.
What is the best route to go from Bangalore to Hampi?
The best route from Bangalore to Hampi is via NH48 and NH50.
What are the best places to visit in Karnataka by road?
The best places to visit in Karnataka by road include Bangalore, Hampi, Coorg, Mysore, Badami, Nandi Hills, Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, and more, each offering unique attractions and experiences.
How can I plan a road trip in Karnataka?
To plan a road trip in Karnataka, start by selecting key destinations based on your interests and preferences, create an itinerary, ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, and consider factors like accommodations, dining options, and sightseeing activities.
What are the 5 famous places in Karnataka?
Five famous places in Karnataka include Hampi, Mysore, Coorg, Badami, and Nandi Hills, each known for their historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.
Which is the best place for a family trip in Karnataka?
Coorg is often considered one of the best places for a family trip in Karnataka due to its serene landscapes, coffee plantations, waterfalls, and opportunities for outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
Which place is very beautiful in Karnataka?
Nandi Hills is renowned for its stunning beauty and captivating vistas, making it a top choice for visitors in Karnataka.
Which is called Switzerland of Karnataka?
The hill station of Coorg is often referred to as the "Scotland of India" or the "Scotland of Karnataka" due to its misty hills, lush greenery, and scenic beauty reminiscent of the landscapes of Scotland.
What is Karnataka’s road trip map?
Karnataka's road trip map includes major highways and scenic routes connecting cities, towns, and tourist attractions across the state, offering diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.
Which is the longest road in Karnataka?
NH 48, also known as the Bangalore-Mangalore Highway, is one of the longest roads in Karnataka, stretching over 375 kilometres and connecting the cities of Bangalore and Mangalore.
Which month is called Tourist of Karnataka?
October to March is considered the tourist season in Karnataka, as the weather during these months is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Which is the best place to travel alone in Karnataka?
Hampi is often regarded as one of the best places to travel alone in Karnataka, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and architectural wonders amid a surreal landscape of ancient ruins and boulder-strewn terrain.
Which is the most peaceful city in Karnataka?
Mangalore is known as one of the most peaceful cities in Karnataka, with its serene beaches, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere providing a tranquil environment for residents and visitors alike.
How long can you drive a car in Karnataka?
The duration for which you can drive a car in Karnataka depends on various factors such as road conditions, traffic, driver fatigue, and vehicle maintenance, but it is advisable to take breaks and rest periodically to ensure safety during long drives.