Hirebenakal Dolmens

A pre-historic wonder destination, 10 km away from the Koppal district centre towards Gangavathi, Hirebenakal is the largest megalithic site in India. Dating back to 800 BCE to 200 BCE period, the site contains around 400 funerary monuments. Located 360 km away from Bengaluru, these pre-historic sites can be reached in 5 plus hours by road. An astonishing site on the banks of River Tungabhadra is covered with thorny bushes, slippery boulders, and uneven trails, and can be reached via Gangavathi, the nearest railway station. The site is restored and maintained by the Archaeology Survey of India. Even though India has numerous sites, the megalith at Moryara Gudda in Hirebenakal is the largest necropolis among the 2000-odd megalithic sites present in South India. An ode to the departed souls, these manmade prehistoric Hirebenakal rock tombs are mausoleums carved in stone that welcome curious visitors. The tombstones ranging from a height of 1- foot to 10 feet tall slabs are unbelievably standing strong and unshakeable.

Hampi

The pride of Karnataka which is also considered one of the biggest open-air museums in the world is also featured on the Indian Currency note. An architectural marvel, the ruins of which are one of the most visited destinations in Karnataka and South India is one of the UNESCO heritage sites of the state. Hampi surely deserves to be one of the 7 seven wonders of Karnataka for its historic significance, heritage, temples, ruins, and exquisite craftsmanship.
The splendid capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is a must-to-do destination for its major attractions Virupaksha Temple, Ugranarsimha Vigraha, Lotus Palace, Hampi Bazaar, Vittala Temple, and much more. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the 7th-century Virupaksha Temple is still active and is the highlight of the ruins. The Chariot featured on a 50 rupee note of Indian currency is like an emblem of the state.

Mysore Palace

The most visited palace in the country is the Amba Vilas Palace, popularly known as Mysore Palace. Constructed in the Indo-Saracen style of architecture, the magnificent Mysuru Palace is the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty and the seat of the Kingdom of Mysuru. Its exclusive interiors of carved mahogany ceilings, stained glass, gilded pillars and glazed tiles – epitomize royalty and splendour. Illuminated with 97,000 lights, the palace turns into a magnificent spectacle at dusk on Sundays and public holidays. Built-in the early 14th century by the royal family of Wodeyars, the current palace is the fourth reconstruction after being damaged by fire. The current restoration was completed in 1912.

Jog Falls

Cascading at a great height of 830 feet, Jog Falls is arguably the most visited waterfall in South India and one of the most in India. Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka state, Jog Falls is one of nature’s splendid masterpieces located in dense forests. The breathtaking views of plunging waterfalls especially post-monsoon will leave you spellbound. A group of 4 waterfalls namely Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roar forms the Jog Falls. Located amidst the bio-diversity of Karnataka’s Western Ghats, Jog Falls lies in the middle of a lush green forest and some rare species of fauna and flora.