January marks the beginning of a new year, and what better way to start fresh than by exploring the diverse and captivating attractions that Karnataka has to offer? From the grandeur of historical palaces to the pristine beauty of wildlife sanctuaries, Karnataka promises a January filled with enriching experiences.
Karnataka is a state in southern India that offers a variety of attractions for tourists, from historical monuments and temples to wildlife sanctuaries and botanical gardens. January is a pleasant month to visit Karnataka, as the weather is cool and dry, and the flowers are in bloom. The best places to visit in Karnataka in January are
Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most magnificent and largest palaces in India. It was the official residence of the Wodeyar dynasty, the rulers of Mysore from 1399 to 1950. The palace is a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, with domes, arches, turrets, and intricate carvings.
The place is illuminated with thousands of lights every Sunday and on public holidays, creating a spectacular sight. The palace also houses a museum that displays royal paintings, weapons, costumes, and other artifacts.
- Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Everyday)
- Entry Fee: INR 70 for adults, INR 30 for children (Indian Nationals)
- Witness the architectural marvel of Mysore Palace, illuminated by thousands of bulbs during the evening, creating a magical ambiance.
Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park is a wildlife sanctuary and a tiger reserve in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, gaurs, leopards, sloth bears, deer, antelopes, and over 250 species of birds.
- Timing: 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM (Safari Timings)
- Entry Fee: INR 300 for adults, INR 150 for children (Indian Nationals)
- Explore the thriving biodiversity of Bandipur through a wildlife safari, spotting elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species.
Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
Virupaksha Temple is a 7th-century Shiva temple in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled over most of south India from the 14th to the 16th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, also known as Pampapati, and is a surviving structure amidst the ruins of Hampi. The temple has a nine-tiered gopuram (tower) that is 50 meters high and is adorned with sculptures and carvings.
- Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Everyday)
- Entry Fee: INR 5 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of Hampi as you explore the intricately carved Virupaksha Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a landmark park in Bangalore, located in the heart of the city. It was originally commissioned by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, in the 18th century and later completed by his son Tipu Sultan. The garden covers an area of 240 acres and is home to over 1,000 species of plants, including rare and exotic species from all over the world. The Garden also features a glass house, a lake, a rose garden, a floral clock, a bonsai garden, and a horticulture information center. The garden hosts two flower shows coinciding with the week of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August).
- Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Everyday)
- Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children (Indian Nationals)
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Lalbagh, a paradise for nature lovers, showcasing a stunning collection of exotic flora.
Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is another popular park in Bangalore, located in the central administrative area of the city. It was laid out in 1864 by Major General Richard Sankey, then British Chief Engineer of Mysore State. It covers an area of 300 acres and is a green oasis with lush landscapes and iconic landmarks like the Attara Kacheri, the State Central Library, the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, and the Vidhana Soudha.
The park also has a bandstand, an aquarium, a toy train, and several statues and pavilions. The park is a jogger’s paradise in the morning and evening hours and a tourist attraction during the mid-day.
- Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Everyday)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in the heart of Bangalore at Cubbon Park, offering a serene environment for a relaxing day out.
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, also known as Mysore Zoo, is a zoological garden in Mysore, Karnataka. It is the oldest zoo in India and one of the oldest in the world, established in 1892. The zoo is spread over an area of 157 acres and houses over 1,450 animals belonging to 168 species from more than 25 countries. The zoo is famous for its conservation breeding programs for endangered species like the royal Bengal tiger, the Asiatic lion, the Indian elephant, the Indian rhinoceros, and the gaur.
- Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Entry Fee: INR 80 for adults, INR 40 for children (Indian Nationals)
- Delight in the diversity of wildlife at Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and most popular zoos in India.
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka and covers an area of 834.16 sq. km. It is the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka and forms a part of the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary was established in 1956 and is named after the town of Dandeli, which lies on the banks of the Kali River.
- Timing: Open throughout the year
- Entry Fee: Varies based on activities (Safari, Boating, etc.)
- Experience the thrill of adventure in the lush jungles of Dandeli, known for its wildlife safaris and river rafting.
Jungle safari: Visitors can take a jeep safari into the deep forest, and spot various animals and birds. The safari is conducted by professional guides and wildlife authorities and covers a distance of around 30 km. The safari runs in two slots, one in the morning and one in the evening. The safari costs around INR 2500 to 3000 per jeep, which includes a vehicle, a guide, a driver, permits, and an entry fee.
Boating: Visitors can enjoy a boat ride or a coracle ride on the Kali River, and admire the natural beauty of the sanctuary. The boating is also a good way to see the crocodiles and water birds. The boating charges are around INR 100 to 500 per person, depending on the type of boat and the duration.
Sightseeing: Visitors can also visit some of the interesting places in and around the sanctuary, such as the Kavala caves, the Magod Falls, the Molangi Falls, the Syntheri Rock, the Shivaji Fort, and the Anshi National Park.
Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary is located in the Mandya district of Karnataka and covers an area of 40 acres. It is the largest bird sanctuary in Karnataka and comprises six islets on the banks of the Kaveri River. The sanctuary was established in 1940 and is named after the Hindu god Sri Ranganatha Swamy, who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Boating: Visitors can take a boat ride around the islets, and watch the birds nesting, feeding, and flying. The boating is conducted by professional guides and boatmen, who also provide information about the birds and their behavior.
Birdwatching: Visitors can also observe the birds from the watchtowers, the walkways, or the banks of the river. The sanctuary provides binoculars and cameras for rent, as well as guides and books for identification. The birdwatching is best done in the early morning or the evening when the birds are most active.
Embark on a journey through Karnataka’s cultural and natural wonders in January, when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes come alive. From the royal splendor of Mysore Palace to the untamed beauty of Bandipur National Park, each destination offers a unique experience. Make sure to check the specific timings and entry fees to plan your itinerary seamlessly, ensuring a memorable start to the year in the vibrant state of Karnataka.
