With a lot of serene and hidden gems; Karnataka also boasts the second-highest number of protected monuments, Archaeology sights, museums, and magnificent forts. This clearly indicates that if you are a history buff or someone who loves to satiate their historical sites’ wanderlust; then Karnataka is an ideal destination for you.
With multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites to century-old magnificent and humongous forts and monuments; Karnataka has a plethora of places to keep you engaged.
With so many magnificent monuments dotted across the state, it becomes difficult for a person to pick places. So, if you too are looking for some top-notch monuments in Karnataka, then listed below are the best places where you can visit.
List of Key Monuments in Karnataka
Belgaum Fort
Build in the 13thcentury by Jaya Raja; Belgaum Fort is the pride and major landmark of Belgaum City. It is an important heritage monument of the state and reflects the history of the city. At the entrance of the fort, you can spot two shrines of Lord Ganapati and Goddess Durga each. This Chalukya Style built fort is a must-visit monument of Karnataka.
- Visiting hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fees: None
- Best time to visit: October to February
Choubara
Chaoubara literally means something that faces in all four directions and this ancient clock tower that’s built in the heart of Bidar is a living example of such type. This clock tower was built in the pre-Islamic period which is why it follows the semi-Islamic architecture. The tower was built for observation purposes and that’s why it is 71-feet high.
- Visiting hours: Throughout the day
- Entry Fees: None
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Hampi Group of Monuments
The popular, magnificent, and a part of the UNESCO World heritage sites in India; Hampi Group of Monuments are surely one of a kind. These monuments are truly the epitome of the glorious Vijaynagar Empire. The temples depict the boastful architecture of this empire. If you are a history buff then this is a top-notch place for you to visit. Read More
- Visiting hours: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fees: 40 INR for Indians and 600 INR for foreigners
- Best time to visit: October to January
Bidar Fort
Beautifully tucked away on the edge of the Bidar Plateau, Bidar fort is one of the best monuments of Karnataka. Built by Adil Shah in the 15th Century, this is a beautiful specimen of laterite sandstone. If we were to believe the folklore, Bidar Fort has served multiple kingdoms including Mughals and Sultanates. Read More
- Visiting hours: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fees: None
- Best time to visit: September to December
Gol Gumbaz
Also known as Gol Gumbaj or Gol Gumbad; this is a mausoleum Adil Shah. It was built in 1627 when he was the Sultan of Bijapur. Boasting several intriguing sculptures and their striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal, gave it a name as “Black Taj Mahal.” This historical monument has been a top-notch attraction in Karnataka. Read More
- Visiting hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fees: 25 INR for Indian visitors and 300 INR for foreigners
- Best time to visit: October to March
Chennakeshavasvami Temple
When it comes to visiting the best monuments in Karnataka, Chennakeshavasvami Temple is a top-notch attraction. This 12th-century temple is built in Hassan and is a worthy place to put on your list. Built by a king of the Hoysala Dynasty, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. With a lot of intriguing carvings all over the temple, it also has a lot of medieval Hindu texts in its possession. Read More
- Visiting hours: 6:00 am to 7:30 pm
- Entry Fees: None
- Best time to visit: October to March
Mysore Palace
When listing the must-visit monuments of Karnataka, it is impossible not to include the Mysore Palace. It was the residence of the royal blood between 1399 and 1950. This palace is one of the best and a famous attractions of Karnataka that’s located in Mysore. The entire palace is a mix of Gothic, Hindu, and Islamic architectural styles. Read More
Visiting hours: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fees: Adults- 70 INR and children above 10 years- 30 INR
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Hoysaleswara Temple
If you wish to go back in time then Hoysaleswara Temple is the right place for you. Located in Halebidu; this temple has a lot of fascinating sites for visitors. It is a place that houses multiple fascinating monuments some of which are exceptional. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is made in the fabulous Dravidian style. The sculptures and carvings are simply breathtaking and wonderful. Read More
- Visiting hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fees: None
- Best time to visit: October to March
Bangalore Palace
Built-in the heart of today’s modern city “Bangalore” is the wonderful architecture of Bangalore Palace. Built-in 1944 by the Wodeyar rulers, this building is a legacy creator of all the monuments present in Karnataka. This Tudor-style created palace is an exceptional site for those who wish to learn more about the history of Indian architecture. Also, it is one of the must-visit attractions of the state. Read More
- Visiting hours: 10 am to 5:30 pm
- Entry Fees: 230 INR for Indians and 460 INR for foreigners
- Best time to visit: August to March
Group of Monuments in Pattadakal
Group of Monuments in Pattadakal is listed amongst the UNESCO world heritage sites of India, and it depicts the bygone era. The monuments show the fine architecture and sculpture talent the people of that era possessed. This group of monuments is simply a treasure of Karnataka and a must-visit place of the state. Read More.
- Visiting hours: Sunset to Sunrise
- Entry Fees: 40 INR for Indians and 600 INR for foreigners
- Best time to visit: October to February
General Tips:
- The best time to visit does not indicate that the travelers or visitors can’t pay a visit any other time.
- The entry fee is subject to change therefore it is advised to check the official website or contact the helpdesk at the monument for the current charges.
- A lot of monuments listed above have online bookings as well. So you can check and get a place booked online. There is a concession that can be enjoyed.
- There can be a few sets of rules at some of these temples or monuments. Please abide by the rules.
