Thursday, November 5, 2009

Karnataka

Karnataka is one of the four states in South India, bordered by the Arabian Sea on the west. It is surrounded by Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh,Goa, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The state comprises three regions - the coastal plains edging the sea; the Western Ghats running parallel to the coastline and the inland plains of the Deccan Plateau. One of the most industrialised states in India, Karnataka produces almost 60% of its coffee, almost 90% of India's gold and a significant amount of raw silk and sandalwood products. Bangalore (now Bengaluru) in south east Karnataka is the capital as well as the biggest city in Karnataka. More than 50% of software companies in India are Bangalore based and is called the Silicon Valley of India. It is also famous for its Pubs and Gardens and has a good climate throughout the year.

Mysore Known for its magnificent palaces, majestic buildings, shimmering silks , sprawling gardens and sandalwood. It conjures up memories of the resplendent glory of the Wodeyar Kings and this former state capital is a seamless blend of old-world charm and modernity. Mysore is a pleasant and growing city in Karnataka with an old world charm owing to its broad avenues, picturesque gardens, exceptional architecture and a pleasant climate. The mysore zoo has an excellent collection of animals.

Brindavan garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, situated in Karnataka. This garden enriched with many type of flowers, shrubs, trees and fountains. The main attraction of this garden is the musical fountain.

At Hampi there are ruins of the capital of one of South India's biggest historical empires the Vijaynagar Empire(14th-16th century). The Vittala Temple built in 16th-cenury is a World Heritage site. The towns of Halebid and Belur in the south are famous for their Temples built by the Hoysala dynasty(12th century). Sravanbelgola in south Karnataka is host to the world's tallest monolithic statue of lord Bahubali, the Jain saint, built in the 10th century. It is 17 m(55 ft) high and is visible from a distance of 30 km. The village of Badami is famous for the ancient cave temples.

Madikeri, a main town of the hilly tracts of southwestern Karnataka called Kodagu (Coorg) region. The area has a lot of spice and coffee plantations and is good for trekking. Popular tourist spots here are the Jog Falls and Kudremukh. Further south are the Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks.

The western coastline of the karnataka state along the Arabian Sea has a number of beach towns including Mangalore, Gokarna, Karwar, Malpe and Marwanthe.

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