Karnataka
EXPLORE THE LAND
First formed in 1956, Karnataka was originally called The State of Mysore before being renamed in 1973. Located in the south western region of the country, Karnataka’s rich history spans several powerful dynasties like the Nanda Empire, the Mauryan Empire, the Kadamba Dynasty and the Chalukya Dynasty to name a few. Despite becoming one of the leaders in industrial innovation in the country, Karnataka has managed to hold on to its history as witnessed by the several historical monuments and regions in the state. From the fast-paced city of Bengaluru to the sprawling hills of Kodagu, Karnataka has something for everyone.
The state is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on one side, and shares its borders with Goa, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala .
State at a Glance
Area
191,791 km2
Demographics
50.9 % male 49.1 % female
Literacy Rate
75.36 %
Population
6.96 crores
Density
319 per km2
No. of Districts
30
Culture & Festivals
Karnataka has a lot to offer for people with varied interests. The capital city of Bengaluru is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. The city acts as a gateway to global flavours and local specialities. Bengaluru is also the shopping destination, right from its malls to its busy streets. Of course, as you move across the districts you will experience rich local flavours, unique to Karnataka.
If you are looking for a quiet respite away from the buzz, the hills of Kodagu is where you want to be. Karnataka’s various national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are a haven for nature lovers and wildlife photography enthusiasts from across the world.
Must Eats
Vijaya Utsava
Occurs in the month of October or November in the beautiful city of Hampi. The Vijaya Utsava is also known as the Hampi Utsava and is a colourful affair filled with music, dance, fireworks, puppet shows and an elephant march called the Jumbo Savari.
Pattadakal Dance Festival
Located 20 kilometers from the town of Badami in Bagalkote district, Pattadakal is a region known for its ancient temples. The Dance Festival is held in January every year to celebrate the history of the region. Dancers from all over the country throng the village. The craft mela at the festival is also popular.
Dasara at Mysore
While Dasra is an important festival throughout the country, in Mysuru it takes on a royal spin. The Mysore Palace is lit up to mark the festival, and massive processions adorn the city’s streets.
Mahamastakabhisheka Mahotsav
Held in the Shravanabelagola town near Bengaluru, the Mahamastakabhisheka Mahotsav is celebrated only once every 12 years. The 57-feet statue of Siddha Bahubali is anointed during the festival. Pilgrims from around the world come to Karnataka to witness the event.
Vairamudi Festival
This festival is held in the Melkote town in the Mandya district in the month of March or April, every year. The procession of the Cheluva Narayanaswamy idol adorned with a diamond crown is the highlight of the festival.
Agriculture
Home to rich and fertile land, Karnataka is spearheading millet production by dedicating resources for the same. The state is also known for its paddy, sugarcane and cotton production. Karnataka is also India’s leader in coffee production.
Karnataka’s Growth Story & Achievements
Karnataka has been one of the early adopters of innovation and technology. Bangalore’s growth story as
the SIlicon Valley of India is known world over. But Karnataka has also led the way when it comes to other
industry sectors. Here is a glimpse of the state’s achievements.
Connectivity
Karnataka has two international airports, namely the Kempegowda International Airport and the Mangalore International Airport along with several domestic airports as well.
The capital city Bengaluru is well-connected by rail to the major cities in India as well to various regions within the state. Apart from Bengaluru, Manguluru is also well-connected to all the major cities in the state. Other major railway stations include Mysore, Shivamogga, Hubbali, and Chamarajanagar.
Karnataka has an extensive road network. 14 national highways and 115 state highways connect the state to other major cities and to key areas within the state.
Karnataka has one major seaport, the New Mangalore Port, and ten minor ports through its coast.