Karnataka the lofty state is bounded by Maharashtra
and Goa states in the North and North East; by the Arabian s

ea
in the West; by Kerala and Tamilnadu states in the south and by the states
of Andhra Pradesh in the East. Banglore is the state capital. The state
boasts of a diverse flora and fauna, which make it a tourist's paradise.
The state's long and colourful history, and the many forts,
temples, mosques, and churches make it a great place to explore. Garden city
Bangalore, Jog Falls, the beaches of Karwar and Malpe, Golgumbuz in Bijapur,
the stone temples of Belur and Halebid, Mysore Palace, the list is endless.
Capital of Karnataka
Bangalore, the capital goes by many names -- the Garden City of India,
India's Manhattan and Silicon Valley. One of the most industrialized cities
of the country, its pleasant climate makes it the seat of much commercial
and cultural enterprise. Rich in Sandalwood, Rosewood and Silk.
It has a lot to offer than a day or two of sight seeing. Bangalore came into
its own after it was converted into the summer capital of Mysore by Tipu
Sultan. The Wodeyars also contributed in the city's beautification.
Bangalore, is undoubtedly the trump card of Karnataka.
History of Karnataka
Karnataka's history takes us back to pre-historic times. The earliest find
of the Stone Age period in India was an hand axe at Lingasugur in Raichur
district. Chandra gupta Maurya, the great Indian emperor abdicated his
throne to embrace Jainism at Shravanabelagola. In 1956, the Kannada-speaking
areas were grouped along with the princely state of Mysore to form what we
now call Karnataka in 1973. Karnataka has the imprint of many dynasties.
Prominent among them were the Chalukyas, the Hoysalas and the mighty
Vijayanagara Empire.
Culture
of Karnataka Karnataka possesses a rich cultural heritage.
The folk theatre has an ancient and rich tradition, the two principal forms
being

Yakshagana
and the puppet theatre. 'Yakshagana' is akin to Kathakali of Kerala in the
choice of its elaborate costumes and vigorous dancing. 'Bhootada Kunita'
(Dance of the Divine Cult), 'Nagamandala' and the demon dance are some
quaint rituals prevalent only in Dakshina Kannada coastal area.
Handicrafts
of KarnatakaKarnataka is famous for its aesthetic
craftsmanship in sandalwood and rosewood. Eye-catching items of furniture,
in-lay work, coffee tables, wall hangings etc. are worthwhile purchases.
Rich silks, wooden toys, leather puppets, Bidriware and other artifacts make
ideal mementos.
Climate of
Karnataka Best time to visit is September to February