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Are you sorting places to visit in Karnataka in winter? Then have a look at the various heritage sites, hill stations, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls and temples that are located in Karnataka and have been listed here. Whether you choose to take a drive to Coorg rested in the foothills of Western Ghats or enjoy the tranquility of Nandi Hills, you’re surely going to fall in love with this Indian state in the winter season. Find out the best places to explore here in winters right here.

15 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka In Winter

Karnataka is every adventure lover’s, history geek’s, and romantic couple’s paradise owing to all that there is to explore here. Mentioned below are some of the most fabulous places to visit in Karnataka during winter that you must list down in your itinerary before you book a trip.

  • Coorg – The Scotland of India
  • Nandi Hills – Into Fabulous Mountains
  • Mysore – Discover Imperial Heritage
  • Chikmagalur – The Glorious Hill Station
  • Bangalore – The Capital City
  • Kabini – The Patch Of Nature
  • Hampi – The Historical Town
  • Bandipur National Park – Mesmerizing Splendor
  • Dandeli – At The Heart Of Western Ghats
  • Sakleshpur – With Ample Plantations
  • Shimoga – Beauty With A Pleasant Weather
  • Nagarhole National Park – Perfect Winter Wildlife Exploration
  • Kemmangundi – For Solace And Splendor
  • Agumbe – A Gem Of A Village
  • Savandurga – The Serene Hill Area

1. Coorg – The Scotland of India

cover for Places To Visit Near Coorg_4th november

Well known as “Scotland of India”, Coorg is a popular hill station that is endowed with coffee estates that is full of aroma and is dotted with vibrant lush greenery. Enclosed with mountains and stunning waterfalls, this place charms everyone with its natural beauty. Enjoy the fabulous treks along the trails of coffee & spice plantations and also you can visit elephant camp, monasteries, wildlife sanctuaries and local Madikeri market. Coorg is counted among the most amazing places in Karnataka to visit in December.

Positioned along the Western Ghats, this is an awesome hill station producing coffee and is also known for ravishing scenery and tranquility. Don’t miss the taste of heart-melting handmade truffles that is the specialty over here. It doesn’t matter whether you are an explorer, foodie, tranquility seeker or adventurer, Coorg is a perfect destination for all the nature lovers. Adding to your information, there are various popular festivals celebrated here like Cauvery Sankramana, Keil Poldhu and Huttari.

Adventurous activities like trekking and white water rafting are available for adventure freaks. Also, do take adequate safety measures while driving along the foggy roads around the hills. Stop over the fabulous towns like Pollibetta, Gonikoppal, Somwarpet, Kushalnagar and Virajpet, that is even more exciting.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore and Mangalore Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport

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2. Nandi Hills – Into Fabulous Mountains

the ebautiful view form nandi hills

Set within the breathtaking hillocks, Nandi Hills offers you everything right from paragliding and cycling into the fabulous mountains to the Yoganandeeshwara Temple perched at the hill and accompanied with a Nandi Statue. This is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in winter.

This is a great weekend getaway from Bangalore that bestows the tourists with an awesome view of flora & fauna. Trekking through the roads, small streams, paved roads and grasslands to the hills, is definitely a treat to one’s eyes. You can spot hordes of monkeys while your journey to Nandi Hills, so do not to keep edible in your hands.

Nearest Railway Station: Chikkaballapur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport

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3. Mysore – Discover Imperial Heritage

An evening shot of the Amba Vilas in Mysore

One of the most fabulous places to visit in winter in Karnataka, Mysore was originally known as Mysuru and is among the largest districts of Karnataka. Appreciated across the country for its historic monuments and buildings accompanied with imperial heritage, the palace in Mysore is listed in the World Heritage. Also, it is a mushrooming centre for production of silk, sandalwood and superior quality incense. Drawing attention of maximum tourists, this place is deemed as India’s best place to practice yoga.

The key palace of Mysore is Ambavilas Palace that is alone a prime attraction of this region. Dasara (Dussehra) is a popular festival that is celebrated here that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. In this festival, the people worship Devi Chamundeswari.

Nearest Railway Station: Chamarajapuram Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bangalore International Airport

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4. Chikmagalur – The Glorious Hill Station

Chikmagalur is a serene site and is also known as the ‘Coffee Capital of Karnataka’ owing to its delicious coffee and aromatic coffee plantations that will greet you everywhere you go in this town. Vibrant lush greenery that is set at the backdrop of ranges of Mullayangiri, Chikmagalur is the most popular hotspot for nature enthusiasts, trekkers and explorers. Also, there are many historic temples in Chikmagalur like Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple, Vidyashankara Temple, Sharadamba Temple, and Amruteshwar Temple. Perched at a height of 3,400 feet, Chikmagalur is enclosed with outstanding coffee and tea plantations. Also, it is a key commercial hub drawing in maximum number of tourists.

This hill town isn’t only about temples and tourist attractions, but it also offers various adventure activities that will invoke the thrill in you. Also, a few famous waterfalls like Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls, Jhari Waterfalls, Shankar Falls and Kadambi Falls are worth having a glance. Spend some quality time amidst the flora and fauna, and don’t forget to carry camera along with you.

Nearest Railway Station: Chikmagalur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport

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5. Bangalore – The Capital City

The IT capital of Karnataka, Bangalore is positioned in the southern India on Deccan Plateau. Representing mixture of modernity and traditions, Bangalore is nicknamed as ‘Silicon Valley’ as it the hub of IT development in India.

Lush greenery surrounding the Bangalore city will leave you captivated as this place encompasses various wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, brooks and rivers. Earned an outstanding reputation as ‘Garden City of India’, Bangalore is brimming with fabulous sites like Lumbini Garden, Bugle Rock Park, and Ulsoor Lake.

Enjoy hiking or trekking at Nandi Hills, Ramanagara, Savandurga and Narayanagiri. For a rejuvenating experience, you can try fishing and camping. A high class pub in Bangalore i.e. Hard Rock is known for its live performances. You can also find several entertainment options in the city like Snow City wherein you can carry out various activities like gaming arcades, bowling alleys and ice-skating. Wrapping up, this is one of the most outstanding places to visit in winter in Karnataka.

Nearest Railway Station: Bangalore City Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport

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6. Kabini – The Patch Of Nature

Witness Wildlife In Natural Habitat

Considered as the best places to visit in winter in Karnataka, Kabini is located in an enthralling location in Karnataka. Perfect weather of Kabini hosts various activities and is well connected to major cities like Mysore, Bangalore and Coimbatore. Head to the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary to spot diverse species of wildlife. Don’t forget to halt at the small shops to shop for local handicrafts and various other things. Indulge in eating southern specials like Vada Sambar, Bisi Bele Bhaat and Akki Roti.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport

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7. Hampi – The Historical Town

temple ruins in hampi

Located at the banks of Tungabhadra River, Hampi is a Kananda village that represents the ruins and historical remnants of Vijayanagara Kingdom. Full of history & serenity, Hampi is one of Karnataka’s most explored gems. Various architecture enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and devotees all across the globe draw attention of all the tourists. Listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are ample temples to explore and that carry equal historic importance.

Housing around 500 architectural structures in its ruins, Hampi is totally worth visiting. The popular destinations of Hampi are Vijaya Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Monkey Temple, Queen’s Bath, Archaeological Museum, Royal Enclosure, and Riverside Ruins.

Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport, Bellary Airport & Belgaum Airport 

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8. Bandipur National Park – Mesmerizing Splendor

Bandipur

The splendor of Bandipur National Park will leave you awestruck. Bird sanctuary and Tiger reserve are a retreat to the bird sanctuary and nature lovers. Once this park was a hunting ground for Maharajas that hailed in Mysore and now this park is a habitat for different species of fauna and flora. Also, you can spot deer, gaurs, wild elephants and antelopes. This park also serves as an animal care centre that caters to the breeding and health problems. Injured animals are taken care in this centre. You can find natural waters coming from Nugu, Moyar and Kabini.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore City Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport

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9. Dandeli – At The Heart Of Western Ghats

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

A perfect getaway amidst nature and adventure, Dandeli is best places in Karnataka to visit in December that is surrounded by dense forests and wildlife habitat. This lush green forests is also famous for night camps, adventure sports, nature walks and boating. Located in the interior area of Western Ghats, this place is a home to many nature reserves, colossal mountains, and outstanding wildlife. Head to the Kali river and halt at Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, or trek on Syntheri rocks. Perched at a height of 1551 ft above sea-level, Dandeli incorporates historical places including ancient caves of Kavla and Ulavi temple.

Nearest Railway Station: Alnavar Junction
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport

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10. Sakleshpur – With Ample Plantations

Places to visit in Sakleshpur

Nestled in the state of Karnataka, Sakleshpur is encircled by ample number of plantations of coffee, spices and tea. Excellent connectivity to prime cities like Mangalore and Bangalore, Sakleshpur is a home to many places. Constructed in the structure of a star, Manjarabad Fort is a prime tourist’s attraction.

Ideal place for spiritual seekers, Sakaleswara temple is 600 years old and it sits on the banks of river Hemavathi. Bisle View Point is another fabulous place offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the rain forests of the area. If you are exploring the places to visit in Karnataka in winter, then do add this place.

Nearest Railway Station: Sakleshpur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport

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11. Shimoga – Beauty With A Pleasant Weather

Jog Falls in Shimoga

Image Credits: Arkadeep for Wikimedia

Shimoga or Shivamogga is a beautiful city which has pleasant weather in winters. Little does one know about what the city holds in terms of attractions, natural splendor and vividness. Can it be counted in the list of top places to visit in Karnataka in winter? Yes, it can! The city is located on the banks of river Tunga and is the gateway to Western Ghats. With popular temples, waterfalls, zoos, lakes and museums, Shimoga has plenty of destinations to cover on your trip.

Add to this, the landscape is completely overpowered by rich greens as the influence of the ghats is clearly visible. Several amazing places to visit in Shimoga include Shimoga zoo, Shivappa Nayaka palace museum, Mattur lake, Bheemeshwara temple and Gajanur Dam.

Nearest Railway Station: Shimoga Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport

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12. Nagarhole National Park – Perfect Winter Wildlife Exploration

Greenery in Nagarhole National Park

Image Credits: Ramesh for Wikimedia

Nagarhole National Park, otherwise the splash of nature is a great attraction to visit in the winters. The park’s exotic flora and fauna will give you an extraordinary experience. Do take a road trip to the park as it might be exhausting in the beginning which later gets vanished when the forests of Nagarhole cast a spell on you. You will definitely spot some wild animals when you choose to go for a safari. 

Being an old national park, the Indian Forest Department has managed to boost tourism in the area by establishing many resorts, lodges, safaris, camps and other adventure activities. This is what makes Nagarhole the best places to visit in Karnataka in winter. Warm winter clothes along with a hot sip of coffee might be the perfect way to enjoy minibus safaris in the park.

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport

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13. Kemmangundi – For Solace And Splendor

A Green Hill in the Western Ghats

Image Credits: Yathin S Krishnappa for Wikimedia

Kemmangundi is a hill station and is moderately cold making it the finest of places to visit in Karnataka in winter. While you can trek to the massive hills surrounding the town, you will also be overwhelmed by the mist-covered clouds along with remarkable sunset and sunrise views from the viewpoints. Are you a culture enthusiast? Do not forget to enjoy the festival of Dussehra which is celebrated in winters. 

Visiting Kemmangundi in winters is an advantage because of two reasons: it is not the peak season and so discounts will fly your way – be it accommodation, travel, etc and secondly, for couples, winters is the perfect time to spend quality time without expecting a heavy crowd.

Nearest Railway Station: Tarikere Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport

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14. Agumbe – A Gem Of A Village 

Agumbe

Image Credits: Shashidhara Halady for Wikimedia

Agumbe is not just rainy but one of the best cold weather places in Karnataka. A winter trip to Agumbe is accompanied by an excellent road tour, temple tours, cottage stays, scaling the gorgeous valley and sight of the finest natural scenery. Your long weekend gets better with every passing minute. It’s just plain right and beautiful!  

The paradise of Agumbe also comprises the Tunga river with trees that outline its banks. Not to mention the extremely offbeat village regions that notch your winter vacation up. With a horde of attractions to visit, the Onake Abbi Falls, Barkana falls, Sunset View Point and Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary are the most preferred ones. 

Nearest Railway Station: Shimoga Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport

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15. Savandurga – The Serene Hill Area

Savandurga Hill overlooking a beuatiful lake

Winters are one of the most ideal times to visit Savandurga as the cool weather coupled with a warming sun is simply pleasant for travel. The blend of both makes Savandurga one of the best cold weather places in Karnataka. You should definitely go camping and trekking in the hills of Savandurga for the perfect adventure retreat.

It is very close to Bangalore and a road trip is the best viable option for an ultimate weekend tour. Being a proper adventure spot, Savandurga offers night hiking as well. In short, if you are looking to spend a glorious week away from the hustle, visit Savandurga!

Nearest Railway Station: Bangalore Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport

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Head to these awesome places to visit in Karnataka in winter and experience pure bliss in its secluded realms with utter comfort and ease. Each of these destinations offers something unique and unusual, so make sure you list all of them in your Karnataka holiday itinerary so that you don’t miss out on any of those experiences.

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Karnataka In Winter

Which place is the best for 2 days trip in Karnataka?

The following are the best places to visit to plan a weekend getaway in Karnataka - Coorg, Nandi Hills, Mysore, Chikmagalur, Bangalore, Kabini, Hampi, Bandipur National Park, Dandeli, Sakleshpur, Shimoga, Nagarhole National Park, Kemmangundi, Agumbe, and Savandurga.

Which is the coolest place in Karnataka?

Sampakhanda is the coldest place in Karnataka that lies in the Uttara Kannada district. The place experiences a tropical highland rainforest climate and experiences plenty of rainfall and humidity.

Is it safe to visit Karnataka during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Complete both doses of vaccination before planning your visit and get an RT PCR test done as you may have to produce it at the entry and exit points. Maintain social distancing and remain masked while stepping out. Avoid visiting crowded places and gatherings. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly after touching surfaces.

Is Mysore a hill station?

Mysore is not a hill station but it has several hill stations in proximity like Ootakamand (Ooty), which is hardly 139 km from this area.

How many days are enough to visit Coorg?

A minimum of two days is required to visit Coorg, but if you want to truly enjoy this place then you have to keep a backup of 7 days.

What is Coorg famous for?

Coorg is famous for wildlife, world-famous coffee, austere sights, and the local warrior tribes. Coorg is a tranquil, little town positioned in the Western Ghat.

Which is the best hill station in Karnataka?

Nandi Hills is one of the best hill stations that is perched at an elevation of 4851 feet above the ground. Coorg, BR Hills, Kemmanagundi, Agumbe, Kodachadri, Chikmagalur, and Kakkabe are the popular hill stations in Karnataka.

How far is Coorg from Bangalore?

The road distance between Bangalore and Coorg is 242 km and both the places are well-connected. You can enjoy a scenic road trip from Bangalore to Coorg which takes nearly 5-6 hours.



Category: Karnataka, Places To Visit, season, Winter Travel

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