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Summer has arrived in India, which means it’s time for you and your family to take a vacation to a cool weather destination. Who wants to spend their summer holidays pigeonholed in their homes because it is scorching hot outside? Not us. If you want to escape the nagging humidity, you don’t need to travel halfway across the world. If you’re in India, you can take a break from the heat without breaking your bank by visiting Karnataka. Read on to explore 25 lesser-known places to visit in summer in Karnataka with your loved ones.

The climate here is tropical. The summers are much rainier in Karnataka as compared to the rest of India. The average high temperature is 30 degrees celsius across the state. The coastal regions of Karnataka experienceless humidity. You’re in for a treat if you plan to visit Karnataka in the summer season.

Top 25 Places To Visit In Summer In Karnataka

Summer is the perfect time to get away from the hustle and heat of the city. To beat the stifling heat, you can retreat to these places to visit in Karnataka during summer with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures:

  • Devarayanadurga: Trekker’s Paradise
  • Shivanasamudra Falls: Nature’s Lap
  • Matanga Hill: Peaceful Mornings
  • Sankey Tank: Flora And Fauna
  • Innovative Film City: Fun-Filled Day
  • Panambur Beach: Adrenaline Rush
  • Bandipur National Park: Experience Wildlife
  • Maravanthe: Long Drives
  • Dandeli: Adventure Activities
  • Gokarna: Beautiful Beaches
  • Netrani Island: Island With A View
  • Kodachadri: A Walk To Remember
  • Coorg: Surreal Nature’s View
  • Nandi Hills: Over The Clouds
  • Ramanagara: Perfect Summer Getaway
  • Kudremukh: Lush-Green Surroundings
  • Mullayanagiri: Paradise For The Trekkers
  • Agumbe: Visit The Cherrapunji Of South
  • Bangalore: Metropolitan City
  • Nagarhole: Meet The Wild
  • Kemmangundi: A Perfect Hill Station
  • Kabini: Perfect Weather! 
  • Belgaum: A Concoction Of Man Made & Natural Marvels
  • Chikmagalur: Coffee Land Of Karnataka
  • Mysore: Heritage Capital

1. Devarayanadurga: Trekker’s Paradise

Devarayanadurga In Karnataka

This hill spot is a trekker’s paradise due to the fact that it has numerous hillocks surrounding it. Motorable road is available till the hilltop. Many trekkers do the Devarayanadurga trek from Bhoga Narasimha temple at the foothill. The trek is really easy and can be enjoyed by families of all age groups. It is one of the best tourist places in Karnataka for 2 days trip. Devarayanadurga state forest is declared as a protective reserved forest by the forest department of Government of Karnataka.

Location: Tumkur, Karnataka 572140

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2. Shivanasamudra Falls: Nature’s Lap

Shivanasamudra Falls In Karnataka

Shivanasamudra is a small and beautiful island city located in Mandya district of Karnataka and is one of the best places to visit during summers in Karnataka. Situated on the banks of Kaveri River, it is located 65 kilometers east of Mysore. Surrounded by hills and dense forests, the view of the city from here is breathtaking. The Shivasamudram falls divide Kaveri River into twin waterfalls. The two waterfalls which emerge out of Shivasamudram waterfalls are Gaganachukki and Bharachukki falls. It is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in summer.

Location: Shivanasamudra, Mandya, Karnataka 571401

3. Matanga Hill: Peaceful Mornings

Matanga Hill View

Matanga Hill is one of the best places to visit in coastal Karnataka. It is located at the eastern end of Hampi Bazaar. There is a small temple on the top of Matanga Hill. On the way down there is a small cave marked where it is believed that Sugriva, ruler of Kishkinda, hid from his brother. The track between Hampi Bazaar and Achyutaraya Temple is a popular track at the base of the hill. This hill attracts tourists who are interested in trekking.

Location: Nimbapura, Karnataka 583239

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4. Sankey Tank: Flora And Fauna

Sankey Tank In Karnataka

Sankey Tank is one of the most ideal tourist places to visit in summer in Karnataka. Built in the year 1882 by Col. Richard Hieram Sankey of the Madras Sappers Regiment, it is one of the best places in the city to spend some time in the lap of nature. It is an ideal place for nature lovers. The Sankey Tank is not just a sprawling lake, it is also home to a number of recreational parks which boast of a variety of flora and fauna; making it one of the best places to visit during summer in Karnataka.

Location: Kodandarampura, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560080

5. Innovative Film City: Fun-Filled Day

Innovative Film City View

Innovative Film City is located in Bidadi, which is at a distance of almost 40 km from Bangalore, Karnataka. A great choice for a full day of fun, Film City in Bangalore boasts of many attractions. The main attractions in Innovative Film City include Aqua Kingdom, Dino Park, Haunted Mansion, Cartoon City, Petting Zoo, Mini Golf, Mirror Maze, Mining Section, 3D Studio Tour and Photo Booth, Funplex within 4D – Theatre, Innovative Talkies, Innovative Wannado City. This is a must-visit place to spend summer vacation in Karnataka.

Location: 24 & 26, Kiadb Estates, Bidali, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109

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6. Panambur Beach: Adrenaline Rush

Beach

Panambur beach is one of the most well-maintained beaches of India. The golden sand, glittering water, and engrossing water sport activities draw beach bums and adrenaline seekers from around India. Make sure to catch the sunrise and the sunset with your significant other from the beach. Dolphin viewing and jet ski rides are some of the activities that you must try here on your summer vacation in Karnataka.

Location: Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka

7. Bandipur National Park: Experience Wildlife

Bandipur National Park View

The Bandipur National Park, one of the best places to visit near Bandipur, was originally a private sanctuary in 1931 under the rule of the Maharaja of Mysore. It served as his hunting grounds. The park is currently spread over an extensive area of 900 square kms. It is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is India’s largest and first biosphere reserve. The animals found here include elephants, tigers, sloth bears, crocodiles, pythons, four-horned antelopes, jackals, peafowl, and red headed vultures. It is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka during summer.

Location: NH 67, Hangala Village, Gundlupet Taluk, Bandipur, Karnataka 571126

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8. Maravanthe: Long Drives

Maravanthe Road

Maravanthe is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in summer season. Enjoy taking long strolls on the beach in the evening and watch the tangerine sunsets. Once you visit the beach, you will agree that it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Karnataka. It is a place one of its kind. Take the NH 66 to reach this unique beach. Even the road journey is heavenly.

Location: Near Kundapura, Karnataka

9. Dandeli: Adventure Activities

river rafting in dandeli

Dandeli is no secret to nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is one of the best forest places to visit in Karnataka where you can connect with nature at a deeper level. You can enjoy myriad of adventure activities like river rafting, camping, and jungle walks. In fact, the rapids of the Kali River are famous for its high currents. Beware of crocodiles that you may find in the mighty Kali River.

Location: Dandeli, Karnataka

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10. Gokarna: Beautiful Beaches

Gokarna Main Beach

A hippie beach town near Bangalore, Gokarna is among the best summer tourist places in Karnataka. Enjoy a fun-filled weekend in Gokarna and have a great tie by its beaches. The town is divided into spiritual and hippie parts. While Gokarna Beach is famous for its temple, the other five adjacent beaches are blessed with nature’s bounties.

Location: Gokarna, Karnataka

11. Netrani Island: Island With A View

cuba diving experience exploring the underwater world

If you have been to Murudeshwara, then you should be no stranger to Netrani Island. Located in the Arabian Sea, this picturesque island is a paradise for scuba diving in India. It provides you with excellent diving opportunities which is why it should be on every diver’s list. You can easily take a boat ride from Murudeshwar to reach here.

Location: Murudeshwar, Karnataka

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12. Kodachadri: A Walk To Remember

The verdant slopes of Kodachadri hill station in Karnataka

Kodachadri is one of the coldest places in Karnataka making a perfect escape in summer from the scorching heat. A biodiversity hotspot in Karnataka, the dense forests of Kodachadri offers opportunities for nature walks and jeep safaris. While you are at it, visit the astounding Nagara Fort once you are done with the summit.

Location: Kodachadri Peak, Shivamogga Dist., Karnataka

13. Coorg: Surreal Nature’s View 

Abbey Falls in Coorg

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With the rich aroma of the coffee surrounding the space and the scenic beauty of nature, Coorg feels like a nature’s paradise. Also called the Scotland of India, this place is famous for its lush-greenery, history, luxury and also adventure. Resting at the western ghats, this is one of the most famous coffee producing hill stations in the country. Not just the splendid beauty of nature is worth admiring, but the place is also a favorite for the adventure junkies. WIth all the surreal landscapes and tranquil beauty, Coorg makes one of the best places in Karnataka to visit in summer.

Location: Western Ghats, Karnataka

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14. Nandi Hills: Over The Clouds 

Nandi Hills

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Nandi Hills is the gem of Karnataka which is located at the east side of Bangalore and considered to be one of the best tourist places in Karnataka during summer. With the beautiful view in the backdrop, this is quite an ideal weekend getaway for the people seeking a relaxing break. With the famous temples, beautiful forts and surreal lake to explore, there is a lot to do here at this magnificent place.

Location: Karnataka

15. Ramanagara: Perfect Summer Getaway  

Ramanagara

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This place is ideal for a quick one day trip from Bangalore which offers lush-greenery and many more things which is worth exploring. Resting between Bangalore and Mysore, this place is a perfect summer getaway amidst the hills. The best part of this place is that it experiences tropical weather throughout the year. Apart from the surreal beauty, this place is also known for adventure activities like trekking, bird watching and also wildlife spotting.

Location: Ramanagara district, Karnataka

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16. Kudremukh: Lush-Green Surroundings 

Kudremukh peak

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This is one of the best tourist places in Karnataka in summer which offers lush-greenery, clean surroundings and also a laid-back vacation vibe. Among one of the favorites for the mountain lovers, Kudremukh is a place located at Chikkamagaluru district in Karnataka. This hill station is also the ming town which attracts the trekkers, adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Kudremukh peak is considered as one of the second-highest peaks after the Mullayangiri.

Location: Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka 

17. Mullayanagiri: Paradise For The Trekkers 

Mullayanagiri Peak

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This is one of the famous trekking locations which is also considered as one of the best tourist places in Karnataka in summer. Though the trek is very to conquer and for the people who want to experience some more adventure and go and explore the Baba Budangiri Hills. The enthusiastic trekkers will have their best time exploring the surreal surroundings of this place. Alongside there are other trekking spots like Manikyadhara falls and also the Deviramma temple.

Location: Chandra Dhrona Hill Ranges, Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka

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18. Agumbe: Visit The Cherrapunji Of South 

Agumbe

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This is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in summer and there are not just one but many reasons. Resting at the beautiful hill station in Shimoga, this place is known for untimely and non-stop rainfall, thus also called the ‘Cherrapunji of the South’. From the beautiful surroundings of the Western Ghat and surreal views, this place makes a great choice for the nature lovers and the couples. Alongside that this place is blessed with some of the beautiful waterfalls like the Barkana falls, Kunchikai falls and also the Onake Abbi falls which are perfect for relaxing during a summer afternoon.

Location: Thirthahalli Taluka, Shimoga district, Karnataka

19. Bangalore: Metropolitan City

Bangalore

Image Credits: 1840578tanuja m for Wikimedia Commons

Sitting on the Deccan Plateau, Bangalore – now Bengaluru, is perhaps among the perfect places to visit in summer in Karnataka for those who wish to witness a fine blend of traditions and modernity. This town is known for its population of youth, the classic cafe culture, and the eclectic pub hopping. This is the best spot to let loose and enjoy some time away from your work. The best part about this destination is that it falls in the middle of most of the popular tourist destinations of Karnataka. There are a plethora of places to witness in Bangalore that makes sure you won’t get bored when in the city!

Location: Heart of Mysore Plateau, Karnataka

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20. Nagarhole: Meet The Wild

Nagarhole

Image Credits: Yathin S Krishnappa for Wikimedia Commons

Spread across Mysore and Kodagu is a National Park that happens to be one of the best places to visit in summer in Karnataka. The Nagarhole National Park is home to a countless number of animal species that one should witness at least once in their lifetimes. The dense forests, the deep gorges, and the wildlife combine to form the landscapes that leave one in awe. Attracting all sorts of nature lovers, thrill seekers, and photographers, this Biosphere Reserve is the spot where one can observe tigers, elephants, wild Bison, Sloth Bears, Panthers, Sambars, and Wild Boars in their natural habitat.

Location: Mysore – Madikeri Road, Hunsur, Karnataka

21. Kemmangundi: A Perfect Hill Station

Kemmangundi

Image Credits: Srinivasa83 for Wikimedia Commons

Located in Chikamagalur, this is among those places to visit in summer in Karnataka that offers some of the most beautiful sights for one to behold. Popularly known as the KR Hills, this hill station was once a summer retreat for the King of Mysore named Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV back in the day. The stupendous gardens, the amazing views, the glittering streams, the gushing waterfalls, and the beautiful valleys combine to offer the best of this destination. There are plenty of places to visit near in and around this destination which makes it an absolutely amazing experience.

Location: Kemmangundi, Tarikere taluk of Chikmagalur

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22. Kabini: Perfect Weather!

Kabini

Image Credits: Yathin S Krishnappa for Wikimedia Commons

Another one of the places to visit in summer in Karnataka for all the adventure junkies and wildlife lovers is Kabini. This place is idyllic for those who wish to enjoy some leisure and laid-back traveling around the southern part of the country. Summer season is the best to witness the thousand shades of green that the jungles here have to offer. Apart from the perfect weather, this is also the time when most of the activities are open to the public including camping. There are also several little souvenir shops that sell handicrafts and such items for you to take back home for your loved ones!

Location: Mysore district, Karnataka, India

23. Belgaum: A Concoction Of Man Made & Natural Marvels

Belgaum

Image Credits: Pranav Bhat for Pexels

With ample places to visit and experiences to encounter, Belgaum is a destination in the southern region of the country that is worth visiting. From forts to temples, waterfalls to lush forests, there is nothing that you cannot find in this very spot. Belgaum is a great place to embrace the finest concoction of the natural and man-made marvels that offers an absolute vacation to travelers from all over the country. Some of the must-visit attractions are Parasgad Fort, Belgaum Fort, Sri Mallikarjuna Temple, Rajhansgad Yellur Fort, Kittur Fort and Palace. Visit the Abu Bakr Siddique Masjid to explore its architecture.

Location: Western Ghats, Karnataka

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24. Chikmagalur: Coffee Land Of Karnataka

Chikmagalur3

Image Credits: pxhere

With an aroma of coffee plantations spread all across this destination, Chikmagalur is a destination that is as refreshing as it can get. It is among the coolest place in Karnataka in summer. Gifted as a dowry by the then Chief of Sakrepatna to his younger daughter, this land of Coffee is all about picture perfect landscapes with the majestic Mullayangiri ranges forming an idyllic backdrop. It is a great spot for trekkers, explorers, and all the thrill-seekers out there. With ample of places to visit such as various temples, Chikmagalur is a must-cover spot. The best thing is that this hill station is the highest one sitting in Karnataka and gives you a chance to trek up till you are in the heart of the misty clouds!

Location: Malenadu region of Karnataka

25. Mysore: Heritage Capital

Mysore

Image Credits: wallpaperflare

With the essence of culture and heritage oozing out from the corners, Mysore is a destination that is one of the famous ones to visit in Karnataka. Famed as Mysuru back in the days, this town has its floors covered in monuments, forts, buildings that are extremely significant to the history of the southern side of the country. Apart from that, Mysore is also known for the incredible quality of incense, sandalwood, and silk. These are also the perfect souvenirs for you to carry back home for your friends and family back home. There are numerous Palaces that you can explore in this town!

Location: Karnataka

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Summer is synonymous with water adventures, ice creams, and cold drinks. But excessive heat can take a toll on you. Don’t let the hot weather kill your urge to get out and explore. Make family summer vacations an annual ritual to foster a love for travel in your kids. Pick your favorite of these 7 places to visit in summer in Karnataka to beat the heat and swim, surf and snorkel. Take a summer trip to Karnataka to spend a long weekend with your near and dear ones. Book your flights and stay three to four weeks in advance of your trip to save money. Go ahead, enjoy your exotic summer rendezvous with nature and wildlife.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Summer In Karnataka

Is it safe to visit Karnataka during COVID times?

Make sure that you follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the government such as maintaining social distance, wearing masks, washing or sanitizing hands regularly, etc. for a safe travel experience. Check all the travel guidelines mentioned by the state government online portal and follow them meticulously.

Which is the coolest place in Karnataka?

The following are the coolest places in Karnataka in summers - Coorg, Nagarhole National Park, Belgaum, Kemmanagundi, Bandipur, and Chikmagalur. The mentioned places are known for offering refreshing escapes away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Which places are best for trekking in Karnataka?

Devarayanagurga, Dandeli, and Bandipur National Park are ideal for trekking and adventure activities. You can take walking trails, spot wildlife, flora and fauna, and enjoy taking scenic pictures of nature.

Which are the best places for a picnic with family?

Shivanasamudra Falls, Sankey Tank, and Matanga Hills are the best places for having a picnic with family and loved ones. They have a serene atmosphere and are surrounded with beautiful nature.

What is the mythological significance of Matanga Hill?

It is said that Sugriva is said to hide at this hill from his brother. It gives an excellent view of nature from the hilltop. Matanga Hill also features numerous trekking trails and one can plan an expedition here throughout the year.

Which beach has dolphins and jet skis?

Visit Panambur beach to view dolphins and enjoy water adventure activities like jet skiing. This is the best beach in Karnataka that has a lot of adventure and water sports activities. You can plan a visit here during summer months.

Why is Bandipur National Park worth a visit?

The place features exotic flora and fauna and being home to endangered species, the national park attracts wildlife enthusiasts from across the country. You can spot wildlife like antelopes, peafowls, jackals, sloth bears, antelopes, and more at this national park.

Which place is best to go on a long drive in summer in Karnataka?

The most scenic long drive you can have in Karnataka is the road trip to Maravanthe. The road is surrounded by palm trees, and a beach. The ultimate ambiance looks heavenly and the refreshing aroma of the region is truly admirable.


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