Karnataka
with its capital at
Bangalore is the country's eighth largest state. It is located in the Deccan Plateau, and is surrounded by Maharashtra to the north, Arabian Sea to the west, Goa to the northwest,
Kerala to the southwest, Andhra Pradesh to the east and Tamil Nadu to southeast.
Karnataka is popularly known for its Carnatic Music through out the world, but it has given much more to the world than this unique form of classical music. With its rich culture and traditional magnificence, it has attracted tourists from all parts of the world. It is among the world's most ancient civilizations and is home to two of the World Heritage Sites Hampi and Pattadakal. The temples at Aihole, Badami and Pattadakalin Bijapur district are a must visit for all art lovers. The temples of Halebedu, Belur andSomanathapura are great and unique architectural achievements. Some other famous tourist spots in Karnataka include Jog Falls, Shivasamudra Falls, Abbi Falls, The Irrupu falls, Manikyandhara, Kallatti Falls and Chunchanakatte Falls.
The Hill Forts of Karnataka such as Nandi Hill, Savanadurga, Madhugiri, Pavagada, Midigeshi, Ucchangi, Jamalabad, Manzarabad, Kavaledurga, Chitradurga , Basavaraja Durga, Devagad, Kurmagad, Shahapur, Shorapur, Nargund fort, Parasgad and Vallabhgad forts are also very popular with tourists.
Karnataka's forests and wildlife are its priceless natural heritage. The State boasts of some of the largest jungle tracts in the south of the Vindhyas.
