Most Famous Historical Monuments in Karnataka

In India, Karnataka has the second highest number of nationally protected monuments, that’s why in South India Karnataka is an unrivalled tourist destination. A number of historical places and monuments in Karnataka date back to ancient dynasties and feature, not just marvellous architecture but also speak of the magnificent rich Indian culture.

The Famous Historical Places in Karnataka

A large number of monuments, places, forts, temples, paintings, and cultural events showcase the vibrant history of Karnataka. Visiting these historical places and monuments in Karnataka and knowing their past events is every historian’s dream. And to assist you with the same, we have brought you the most famous historical places and monuments in Karnataka.

Mysore Palace

The Mysore Palace is a popular historical palace and a renowned royal residence belonging to the Wadiyar dynasty and the seat of the Kingdom of Mysore. The palace is centred at the heart of the city and faces the prime landmark of Mysore, the Chamundi Hills. This Indo-Saracenic style architectural fort is one of the most famous tourist attractions after the Taj Mahal, which manages to gather around 6 million visitors annually.

Location: Sayyaji Rao Rd, Agrahara, Chamrajpura, Mysuru, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Adults – Rs 70, Children(7-12 years) – Rs 30
Timings: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm, All days of the week

Raja’s Tomb, Coorg

The beautiful Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, Raja’s Tomb was built in the year 1820 and houses the mortal remains of the Kodavad Royalty. Over the years, it has emerged as a magnificent travel attraction in Coorg, that attracts tourists from near and far. As per the historians, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as the ruler of the Kodava clan was a dedicated Hindu devotee.

Location: 7/73(1, SH27, Mahadevpet, Madikeri, Karnataka
When To Go: November – February
Entry Fee: Rs 2
Timings: 9:30 am – 7:00 pm, All days of the week

Bangalore Palace

Bangalore Palace reflects the true essence of royalty of the bygone era. It is renowned as the “Crown Jewel of Bangalore” which is worth a visit. The enormous palace is an epitome of medieval British architecture, that showcased an eclectic collection of art and paraphernalia of the historic period. It exhibits the grandeur and iconic lifestyle of the Wadiyars.

Location: Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka
When To Go: November – February
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 230, Foreigners – Rs 460
Timings: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm, All days of the week

Bidar Fort

Bidar Fort is one of the most impressive and significant monuments that houses around 30 structures inside the fort walls and is situated in the eastern part of the city. The beautiful laterite and lime mortar enhances the beauty of the structure and makes it worth a visit. It is one of the favourite destinations of history buffs and art lovers that love to visit this palace because of its rich heritage and the glory of its unique architecture.

Location: Old City Fort Area, Bidar, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Badami Cave Temple

The cave temples of Karnataka are famous for their cut out of sandstone rocks a popular Badami cave temple is dedicated to Lord Nataraja an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The complex of the temple consists of Hindu and Jain temples, that are beautifully carved into the mountainside from a large hill overlooking the divine Agastya Lake. The 4 caves represent Lord Shiva, Vishnu, Vaishnavite and the Tirthankaras of Jainism.

Location: Badami, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm, All days of the week

Lakshmi Narasimha, Hampi

The Lakshmi Narasimha statue is one of the most imposing sculptures that was built in the year 1528 A.D. The gigantic stone structure is one of the largest monolith statues in Hampi. The temple is visited by millions of devotees who worship Lord Narasimha and the Goddess Lakshmi. The life-size statue of Lakshmi Narasimha has the face of a lion and the body of a human, which is said to be the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Location: Hampi, Karnataka
When To Visit: October – February
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Belgaum Fort

Belgaum Fort is an ancient architectural pre-Muslim monument where two shrines of Durga and Ganapati coexist with the mosques in the vicinity. The Deccan, Indo-Saracenic and Chalukyan styles of architecture are the centre of attraction in the city. The archaeologists and history buffs love to visit this palace to get a glimpse of the unforgettable yet intriguing vibrant history of our culture.

Location: Belgaum Fort Area, Belagavi, Karnataka
When To Visit: November – February
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 25, Foreigners – Rs 150
Timings: 8:00 am – 6:30 pm, All days of the week

Monkey Temple, Hampi

Dedicated to the worship of Lord Hanuman a monkey god, the Monkey Temple is a popular tourist attraction of Hampi, situated on the Anjaneya Hills. Placed amidst the gigantic rocks surrounded by vegetation, the temple marks the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. Along with Lord Hanuman, the temple houses the beautiful idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita and the mighty Tungabhadra river flows on its north as its protector.

Location: Anjenaya Hill, Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm, All days of the week

Raja Seat, Coorg

Raja’s Seat is a famous tourist attraction that offers its visitors mesmerizing sunset, a beautiful garden of flowers and supreme musical fountains. Despite being located at a distance of 270 km away from Bangalore, it has emerged as one of the most important tourist spots in Madikeri, which exhibits a beautiful spectacle of lush green gardens, and a chain of low-rise mystic mountains with a pretty picturesque view.

Location: Near Rajadarshan Hotel, Raja Seat Road, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Rs 5
Timings: 5:30 am – 8:00 pm, All days of the week

Sri Chennakeshava Temple, Belur

Sri Chennakeshava Temple is a renowned 12th-century Hindu temple and a major Vaishnava pilgrimage site in Belur. Located on the banks of the Yagachi River, the temple almost took a century to get completed. It is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu and has been actively visited by the devotees every year. Along with the devotees, the history buffs and the archaeologist also love to visit this place for its remarkable architecture, sculptures, reliefs, iconography, inscriptions and history.

Location: Temple Road, Belur, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 5, Foreigners – Rs 100
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm, All days of the week

Royal Enclosure

Royal enclosure is a popular historic site with remains of the royal complex where the king of the Vijayanagara empire is said to be living with his clan. The beautiful stepwell and the waterways are the main attraction of the area. The art and architecture of distinctly unique Islamic structures can not be found at any of the temples. Moreover, it reflects a strong Mughal influence and the experimenting nature of people at those times.

Location: 4 Km from Hampi, Bellary, Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Hampi Archeological Ruins

The magnificent ruins of Hampi are blessed with one of the most beautiful and exquisite architecture among the other historical monuments. The Hampi temples, their monolithic sculptures and monuments, have garnered enough praise across the world because of their excellent craftsmanship. The city was pillaged, looted and burnt during the war and then abandoned as ruins, however, the splendid remains of the broken city have witnessed an infinite talent and the power of creativity despite being destructed.

Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 5, Children – Free, Foreigners – Rs 500
Timings: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Namdroling Monastery, Bylakuppe

Established in the year 1963, The Namdroling Monastery is the most popular monastery and the largest teaching centre of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. It houses numerous small temples and shrines that are known for their distinctive Tibetan architecture. For locals, the prestigious place is known as “the Golden Temple”. Visitors love to spend some alone time here as it is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of busy city life.

Location: Arlikumari, Bylakuppe, Coorg, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Melukote

Melukote is a religious and explorer community for Hindus which is quite famous for Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple and Yoga-Narasimha Swamy Temple. It is contemplated as one of the sacred places in Karnataka. As per the local natives, the saint Ramanuja stayed here for 12 years and thus it has emerged as a prominent location for Brahmins. The famous temples of Melukote are renowned for having an exquisite collection of jewels and crowns that are brought out only on special occasions.

Location: Mandya Dist, Melukote, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 7:30 am – 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm, All days of the week

Elephant Stables, Hampi

The Elephant Stable in Hampi is a prominent historical structure, that was used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is one of the major tourist attractions that represent an Indo-Islamic style of architecture. It is believed to be constructed in the 15th century, during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. The beautiful building of a long structure with a row of interconnected domed chambers was used to keep the royal elephants of the royal household.

Location: Hampi, Karnataka
When To Visit: November – February
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 30, Foreigners – Rs 500
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm, All days of the week

Group Of Monuments at Pattadakkal

There are numerous temples located in the close vicinity of Pattadakal. Pattadakal which is situated on the banks of the Malaprabha river houses 10 major temples and all dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The beautiful styles of architecture of the temples spellbound visitors with their timeless beauty and historical relevance. The city resonates with the power of Lord Shiva and allures thousands of devotees to come and visit the heavenly place.

Location: Bagalkot district, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 35, Foreigners – Rs 500
Timings: 6:00 am – 5:30 pm, All days of the week

Bara Kaman, Bijapur

Bara Kaman is a prominent historical landmark in Bijapur, Karnataka. It is a mausoleum of Ali Adil Shah II. The Indo-Islamic architecture was planned to form beautiful twelve arches placed vertically as well as horizontally surrounding the tomb of Ali Adil Shah. However, due to certain reasons, the structure was left incomplete, still, it has an unmatched architectural quality to date.

Location: bara kaman, Vijayapura, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur

Gol Gumbaz is a circular-shaped dome which is the tomb of king Mohammed Adil Shah, of the Adil Shahi Dynasty. It is one of the most famous monuments and the second largest dome ever built in Vijayapura. The popular tomb is also famous by the name “whispering gallery” where in the central chamber every sound is echoed exactly seven times. Moreover, the mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah is quite renowned for having one of the biggest single chamber spaces in the world.

Location: Jadar Galli, Vijayapura, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Old Palace, Hampi

The Old Palace of Hampi also popular by the name “Gagan Mahal” was a magnificent fort, that used to be the residence of the rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire. Built during the 16th century, the fort is said to be 5 centuries old, which gets destroyed during the Mughal raids of 1565, when Hampi fell to the Mughal invaders. Despite being old and ruined by the war the fort still manages to remain a centre of attraction for tourists to visit.

Location: Anegundi, Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebid

Hoysaleswara temple is popularly referred to as the Halebidu temple, which is a 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The temple is revered as a popular devotional site that reflects the Shaivism, Vaishnavism and Shaktism traditions of Hinduism, as well as images from the Jain religion. This marvellous piece of architecture is poised as a star-shaped monument and is one of the largest Shiva temples built by the Hoysalas.

Location: Halebeedu, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 6:30 am to 9:00 pm, All days of the week

Kavala Caves, Dandeli

Kavala Caves is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Dandeli. It is believed to be a prehistoric natural cave formed by volcanic activity and situated deep inside the forest. At the entrance of the cave, there lies a beautiful temple that encompasses a naturally formed Shivalinga. The track from the caves gives a mesmerizing view of the surrounding hills along with the beautiful view of River Kali winding her way through the valley below.

Location: Kavala Caves, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Mahakuta Temple, Badami

The architectural delight and the unique rock-cut construction pattern of Mahakuta Temple allure devotees from near and far. As per a study, Mahakuteshwara temple has the largest collection of shrines that are devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva. The unique architecture of the temple is a perfect blend of classic elements from the Dravidian and Nagara styles. The intricate design and the fascinating architecture significantly draw travellers to this beautiful temple.

Location: Badami-Mahakoota, Badami, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, All days of the week

Archaeological Museum, Hampi

The Archaeological Museum located at Hampi is one of the paramount historical monuments that one must certainly visit after reaching Karnataka. The museum holds an impressive collection of the ruins of Hampi, sculptures, inscriptions and artefacts from the prehistoric era to the late Vijayanagar Empire. Apparently, the museum is quite famous for exhibiting intricate stone sculptures and inscriptions in Devanagari, Kannada, Arabic and Persian.

Location: Daroji-Kamlapura Road, Kamalapur, Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Rs 5
Timings: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, All days of the week, except Fridays and national holidays

Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Bangalore

The enchanting Indo-Islamic architecture of Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace was once an opulent palace that was used as a summer retreat by the emperor. The palace was the proud exhibitor of the ornamental frescoes, magnificent arches, protruding balconies and brilliant motifs of prehistoric times. Believed to be constructed during 1778-1784 AD, it offers a glimpse into the royal and elegant lifestyle of the monarch.

Location: Tippu Sultan Palace Rd, Chamrajpet, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 15, Foreigners – Rs 200
Timings: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Durga Temple, Aihole

The 8th-century based, Durga temple is a prominent Hindu temple in Aihole that is dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya. The astonishing ceiling of the temple is known to be embellished by the largest relief panels depicting the artwork of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism and Vedic deities. The alluring structure of the temple exhibits a perfect blend of Dravidian and Nagara styles of architecture. Archaeologists & history buffs love to visit this place to admire this elaborately decorated monument of Aihole.

Location: Aihole, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 20, Foreigners – Rs 200
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, All days of the week

Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

The majestic Keshava Temple is located in the Somanathapura town of Mysore. It is one of the magnificent and most famous shrines in Karnataka. The divine place is dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna and the façade of the temple is embellished with beautiful carvings depicting various mythological stories from the era of Ramayana and the Bhagavata Purana. Though the temple is old and ruined, still wanderers love to visit this place just to soak in the serenity and the beauty of this divine temple.

Location: Somanathapura, Mysore, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 5, Foreigners – Rs 100
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm, All days of the week

Bahubali, Shravanabelagola

The gigantic monolithic statue of Bahubali is considered to be one of the world’s tallest free-standing monolithic statues. Standing at a roaring height of 58-foot (18 m), the statue is said to be carved out from a single block of granite and is located on top of the beautiful Vindhyagiri Hill at Shravanbelagola. It is one of the most famous pilgrimages for the devotees of the Jain region in South India.

Location: Shravanbelagola, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:30 pm, All days of the week

Sasivekalu Ganesha, Hampi

Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple is a marvellous and giant statue of Lord Ganesha, which is carved out beautifully from a single block of rock. The beautiful temple is an amazing piece of architecture and one of the major landmarks in Hampi. The magnificent monolithic sculpture of the deity is the centre of attraction which is around 8 feet tall and is kept in an open pavilion. The oldest structure has been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in Hampi.

Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Bijapur Fort

Bijapur Fort is one of the important historical monuments located in Bijapur. It is popular for the rich and vibrant historical monuments built during the reign of the Adil Shahi dynasty. The dazzling granites and lime mortar enhance the beauty of the façade of the fort. The fort encompasses numerous structures inside its premises which were built by rulers of different dynasties over time and is surrounded by many other prominent forts and palaces.

Location: Godbole Mala, Vijayapura, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 15, Foreigners – Rs 200
Timings: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Dodda Alada Mara

The Dodda Alada Mara is a Big Banyan Tree which is said to be approximately 4 centuries old and has spread over three acres of land in the village of Kethohalli. The sprawling branches of the tree have become a great centre of attraction for tourists in Bangalore. The enormous scattered branches of the tree are home to a number of exotic birds and animals in the forest. The place has emerged as one of the favourite picnic spots where families love to adore the beauty and serenity of nature while catching a glimpse of the various birds and animals.

Location: Dodda Alada Mara, Tavarekere, Uttarahalli Hobli, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm, All days of the week

Madikeri Fort, Madikeri

The majestic Madikeri Fort is a popular tourist attraction of Coorg in Karnataka. The imposing fort was built by Mudduraja in the year 1681. However, the earthen structure of the fort is said to be rebuilt in beautiful granite by emperor Tipu Sultan. These days the historic fort serves as the office of the Deputy Commissioner of the area. Upon entering the fort, two life-sized elephants made of mortar welcome travellers which is the centre of attraction of the fort.

Location: Madikeri Fort, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 10:00 am – 6:30 pm, All days of the week, except Monday

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

The Ballari district of Karnataka is quite popular by its renowned Virupaksha Temple, which is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The divine temple is dedicated to the worship of Lord Virupaksha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is believed to be constructed during the reign of Vijayanagara ruler Krishna Deva Raya II. The annual chariot festival of eminent Virupaksha Temple allures millions of devotees from across the globe.

Location: River Road, Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, All days of the week

Achyutaraya Temple, Hampi

The divine Achyutaraya Temple is located between Gandhamadana and Matanga Hills of Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to the Lord Venkateshwara, which was built in the year 1534 AD by Achyuta Deva Raya, and thus became popular by the king’s name. The unmatched and exceptional style of architecture is quite popular in the area which is the most advanced form of any other temple in Hampi.

Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 5:30 am – 1:00 pm and 5:50 pm – 9:00 pm, All days of the week

Vijaya Vittala Temple, Hampi

The ancient monument Vittala Temple is one of the largest and most famous structures in Hampi. The embellished Stone Chariot and the Musical Pillars are the main attraction and are must-sees by visitors. The temple is known for its creative architecture that encompasses 56 Musical Pillars, known as SaRiGaMa Pillars which produce a soft musical tone when struck with a thumb.

Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indians – Rs 30, Foreigners – Rs 500
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm, All days of the week

Queen’s Bath, Hampi

Queen’s Bath is a historic bathing chamber used by the king & his wives, with an extravagant outdoor pool. The majestic structure is a wonderful piece of architectural elegance that was ahead of its time and was the most advance among the other numerous temples in the neighbourhood. This famous heritage site is located in close vicinity to another popular monument, the Royal Enclosure. The fanciful design on the exteriors of the structure is really spellbinding and allures travellers from near and far.

Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 8:00 am – 5:40 pm, All days of the week

Mirjan Fort, Kumta

The historic Mirjan Fort lies on the west coast of the Uttara Kannada district, which is widely popular for its architectural elegance. The fort is evidence of the vibrant history of our culture and has witnessed numerous battles in the past. It is said to be constructed initially by Queen Chennabhairadevi. The existence of the fort is a royal reminder of our glorious, grand and opulent past.

Location: Talluk, Mirjan Fort Road, Mirjan, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, All days of the week

Devanahalli Fort

The Devanahalli Fort is renowned for its historical significance and archaeological brilliance. The place is also popular as the birthplace of the royal emperor Tipu Sultan. Sprawling over a wide area of 20 acres, it houses many memorials and temples in its close vicinity. Though the fort has been torn down and dilapidated with time, still it manages to gather a vast number of tourists every year.

Location: Devanahalli District, Bangalore – Hyderabad Hwy, Devanahally, Karnataka
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, All days of the week

Tippu’s Death Place

Srirangapatna is a well-known historical landmark in Karnataka, which is widely popular for being the royal emperor Tipu Sultan’s Death Place. As per the historians the body of the deceased Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, was recovered at this place during the battle with the Britishers. A huge Stone of marble was installed at this place to mark this historic site.

Location: Srirangapatnam, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Indian – Rs 5, Foreigners – Rs 100
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, All days of the week

Due to its varied geography and long and rich history, there are numerous historical places and monuments in Karnataka for tourists to explore and enjoy.