Before you embark on a trip to Karnataka, there are several things that you should know well in advance about Karnataka as it would be of valuable help. Karnataka is a state in the southern part of India and is also an important place of tourist interest for the ardent tourists. The culture, heritage and tradition of this town are equally enthralling and you will certainly like this place for its unique appeal. This technologically and commercially advanced state of India has to offer much more in terms of tourism to its visitors.

FACTS AND FIGURES

Area	:	1,91,791 sq km
Population	:	52, 850, 562
Capital	:	Bangalore
Languages	:	Kannada, English, Hindi
Best time to visit	:	October to March

GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Karnataka is flanked by the Arabian Sea on one side and various neighboring states on the other. The physical features of Karnataka include two main regions, namely the Deccan Plateau and the Coastal Plains and Islands. The state is rich in black soil which has significance for the agriculture of the region. The Western Ghats add to the beauty of this place and are home to a large variety of flora and fauna. The state is rich in water resources and there are many rivers that meander through it. A trip to Karnataka would cover the important tourist destinations that are breathtakingly beautiful owing to its diverse geography.

HISTORY

There are many factors about Karnataka that make it a popular tourist retreat and the history of this place is one such factor. Many historical attractions abound in this place and stand testimony to the rule of many dynasties of rulers. The Nandas and Mauryas were the first recorded rulers to rule over Karnataka. Some of the subsequent illustrious dynasties include the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas and the Vijayanagar kings..Tipu Sultan was an important ruler of the Mysore kingdom. He fought against the British with the invaluable assistance of the French but was eventually overthrown by the British in the year 1799. Karnataka was a part of the Madras Presidency until it got an individual recognition in the year 1956. There are many historical places to visit in Karnataka that range from ancient monuments to splendid gardens.

Climate

The coastal portion of Karnataka remains hot and experiences a rainy tropical monsoon climate. The southern inland regions are dry and the interior northern areas are partially dry and hot.

Flora & Fauna

More than one fifth of the total area of the state is under the forest cover. The wildlife sanctuaries flourish here and are home to a wide ranging flora and fauna. Some of the prominent ones are Bandipur National Park, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole, Ranganathittu Wildlife Sanctuary and Chamundi hills.

Touristplacesinindia.com is your authentic travel guide on Karnataka and provides useful information on the hotels and tourist attractions of Karnataka.