Chapter -1

1.1 introduction about heritage tourism

What is the heritage tourism:
Heritage tourism refers to the practice of traveling to experience and learn about the cultural,
historical, and natural heritage of a place. It involves exploring and appreciating the unique
characteristics, traditions, and customs of a destination, such as:
- Historical landmarks, monuments, and architecture
- Cultural festivals, events, and performances
- Traditional cuisine, music, and art
- Natural environments, landscapes, and wildlife
- Intangible heritage, such as language, folklore, and mythology

Heritage tourism aims to:

- Preserve and promote cultural and natural heritage
- Support local communities and economies
- Educate tourists about the significance and importance of heritage sites
- Encourage cross-cultural understanding and exchange
- Provide authentic and meaningful experiences for tourists

History of heritage tourism

The history of heritage tourism can be traced back to the Grand Tour of Europe in the 17th
and 18th centuries, where wealthy travellers visited classical ruins, art galleries, and cultural
landmarks. However, the modern concept of heritage tourism emerged in the mid-20th
century. Here's a brief timeline:
1. 1950s-1960s: Post-war tourism boom, with increased travel to cultural and historical
destinations.
2. 1970s: UNESCO's World Heritage Convention (1972) recognized the importance of
preserving cultural and natural heritage sites.
3. 1980s: Heritage tourism gained popularity, with a focus on historic preservation,
conservation, and community involvement.
4. 1990s: Sustainable tourism practices emerged, emphasizing environmental and cultural
responsibility.
5. 2000s: Heritage tourism expanded to include intangible heritage, cultural landscapes, and
rural heritage.
6. 2010s: Digital technologies enhanced heritage tourism experiences, with virtual tours,
apps, and social media.

Key milestones:
- 1980: ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites) established the Charter of
Cultural Tourism.
- 1999: The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) launched the "Cultural Tourism"
program.
- 2003: The UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage was
adopted
Throughout its history, heritage tourism has evolved to prioritize:
- Community engagement and benefits
- Sustainable practices
- Authentic experiences
- Preservation and conservation
- Cross-cultural understanding
Today, heritage tourism continues to grow, with a focus on responsible travel, cultural
sensitivity, and economic benefits for local communities.

Heritage tourism can be categorized into different types, including:

- Cultural heritage tourism
- Historical heritage tourism
- Natural heritage tourism
- Intangible heritage tourism
- Rural heritage tourism
- *Urban Heritage Tourism
-Industrial Heritage Tourism
-Dark Heritage Tourism
-Culinary Heritage Tourism
-Spiritual Heritage Tourism
-Archaeological Heritage Tourism
-Eco-Heritage Tourism

1. Cultural Heritage Tourism: Focuses on cultural traditions, customs, and practices, such
as festivals, music, art, and crafts.
2. Historical Heritage Tourism: Explores historical landmarks, monuments, and sites, such
as ancient ruins, museums, and historical buildings.
3. Natural Heritage Tourism: Showcases natural environments, landscapes, and wildlife,
such as national parks, forests, and wildlife reserves.
4. Intangible Heritage Tourism: Celebrates intangible aspects of culture, such as language,
folklore, mythology, and traditional knowledge.
5. Rural Heritage Tourism: Highlights rural landscapes, agricultural practices, and
traditional ways of life.
6. Urban Heritage Tourism: Explores urban cultural and historical landscapes, such as city
architecture, museums, and cultural events.
7. Industrial Heritage Tourism: Examines industrial history and heritage, such as factories,
mills, and technological innovations.
8. Dark Heritage Tourism: Involves visiting sites associated with death, tragedy, or
suffering, such as battlefields, prisons, or memorials.
9. Culinary Heritage Tourism: Focuses on local cuisine, food traditions, and culinary
practices.
10. Spiritual Heritage Tourism: Explores sacred sites, religious traditions, and spiritual
practices.
11. Archaeological Heritage Tourism: Involves visiting archaeological sites, ruins, and
excavations.
12. Eco-Heritage Tourism: Combines ecological and heritage tourism, focusing on
sustainable practices and environmental conservation.

1.2 objectives of the study

1) exploring and experiencing the cultural, historical, and natural heritage of a
destination.
2) It involves visiting places of historical significance, engaging with local traditions,
and learning about the past and present aspect of a community or region.
3) learners gain knowledge, intellectual skills and a wider range of competences on
issues such as cultural heritage maintenance or societal well-being
 4) Know that you're making a difference when you travel ethically Spending.
5) To make high exposer on heritage tourism in Karnataka
6) To get through knowledge on Karnataka heritage tourism destinations and activities.
7) To know the challenges and more opportunities for the tourists in Karnataka
8) For the gain a sense of accomplishment towards the heritage tourism.

1.3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

For the present study both on primary and secondary data were used and have been collected
through various sources of data.
The primary data have been collected through my own observation during my one weeks i
went trip in the heritage tour. The required data for my report gathered with the help of the
google guru took the sources for this primary data.
The secondary data have been collected from the organization profile and other sources
include: books, magazines, newspapers, broachers, pamphlets, internet, Wikipedia and the
like

1.4 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDIES

● Lack of time
● No previous experience
Every report involves their own specific goals, deliverables information that define the
boundaries of the trip Report. In the same way I have some limitation in my report like that
involves the financial causes, lack of time to get some days for my trip because of my classes
are so constraints to finish my academic year during trip I got so much knowledge related my
specific area which I have selected.

Chapter-2
2.1 Heritage tourism in Karnataka

Karnataka is a place of million stories that are told through its forts, palaces, and ancient
towns. Any acquaintance with the state can be started with a sightseeing tour to understand its
history, culture and ethos through its monuments. On the heritage cultural tour to Karnataka,
tourists will reveal a lot more about the art, architecture and craftsmanship of the Hoysalas,
Cholas, Chalukyas, etc. From ancient ruins and temples that are speckled in small towns to
vibrant fort hugging the sea, a trip to Karnataka reveals one the beauty of age's old medieval
town.
On a heritage trip to Karnataka, don't forget to visit some of the prominent ancient towns like
Hampi, Badami, and Anegundi, these are some of the places where one can trace different
dynasties. It seems time has stood still in these rustic towns of Karnataka. Rich in history and
architecture, Karnataka is home to a host of heritage sites. Visit Karnataka and discover the
hidden gateways to timeless art and architecture.

Forts in Karnataka

Karnataka are the vast monuments, which were made by erstwhile leaders to protect their
defensive weapon while fighting with enemies. Many monarchs have ruled over Karnataka,
some of them conquered the old forts while others made new forts to expand their kingdom.
With the help of forts, one peak into the life of the royal families and witness their
spectacular opulence.
If tourists are looking for a short getaway on the coastal belt, they can visit the Morgan Fort.
The flowing river, greenish groves and breezing wind from the seaside add flavor to the
beauty of the fort. Another architectural splendour in Karnataka is the Gulbarga Fort. In the
Gulbarga Fort, one can see the oldest mosque in Karnataka and Jumma Masjid, which looks
like Great Mosque of Cordova in Spain. Tipu Sultan, one of the influential leaders of India,
was also remembered for his luxurious lifestyle and valour. Tipu Sultan Palace, nestled in the
middle of the manicured garden in Bangalore, is notable for its teak pillars and ornamental
frescoes.

Famous Forts in Karnataka

Basavakalyan Fort Bellary Fort Bidar Fort (Bidar) Chitradurga Fort
(Bidar) (Bellary) (Chitradurga)

Gulbarga Fort Manjarabad Fort Mirjan Fort (Uttara Raichur Fort

(Gulbarga) (Sakleshpur) Kannada) (Raichur)
Palaces in Karnataka
Mysore Palace

states in India, Karnataka is bestowed with the magnificent palaces. Palaces in Karnataka are
the epitomes of luxury, victory, and chivalry of the rulers who use to once rule the state. They
are gems amongst the various forms of architecture and, in fact, the official "heritage city" tag
is associated with Mysore. One of the finest palaces in Karnataka is the Mysore Palace. The
magnificent Mysore Palace is a treasure house of exquisite carvings and works of art from all
over the world, as the official residence of the Wodeyars — the Maharajas of Mysore.
Jagmohan Palace, Lalitha Mahal, Cheluvamba Mansion and Rajendra Vilas are some of the
other Palaces that one should visit on a tour to Mysore.
Apart from Mysore, one can find some sightseeing options in Bangalore as well. In
Bangalore, tourists can see the exact copy of England's Windsor Castle in the form of
Bangalore Palace. Beautiful painting, sculptures, and artistic passages, takes one on a walk
through the history. Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, once the official summer residence of Tipu
Sultan, makes it to the top attraction of Bangalore.
Famous Palaces in Karnataka
Mysore Palace Bangalore Palace Cheluvamba Jaganmohan Palace
(Mysore) (Bangalore) Mansion (Mysore) (Mysore)

Lalitha Mahal Nalknad Palace Rajendra Vilas Tipu Sultan's

(Mysore) (Kodagu district) (Mysore) Summer Palace
(Bangalore)

Ancient Shrines:
Heritage temples are the heart and soul of Karnataka. With UNESCO world heritage
accredited temples, historical monuments, mysterious caves, carved stories, Karnataka is a
hotspot for a great holiday destination. Temples of Hampi and Pattadakal are unique; they are
the rich plethora of spirituality and symmetry, an example of humanity's devotion to its God.
The architecture of a major number of temples in Karnataka is a treat for the eyes and
especially for the God-fearing people as the list of explorations is endless. Each and every
temple has its distinctive feature- Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu is notable for its
mythological stories carved in the temple, Gomateshwara Temple in Shravanabelagola is the
finest specimen of Jain temple and also in the temple complex is the world's largest
monolithic statue. Also, worth visiting on a heritage tour in Karnataka is the Chennakeshava
Temple, early masterpieces of Hoysala period and the interior carvings depict aspects of
Vishnu, particularly the incarnations. Many shrines in Karnataka are more than just temples,
so do look around.
Famous Ancient Shrines in Karnataka
Group of temples at Sangameshvara Chandrashekhara Mallikarjuna Temple
Pattadakal- Temple Temple
Virupaksha Temple

Kashivisvanatha Galaganatha Temple Kadasiddhesvara and Jambulinga temple

Temple Jambulingeswara
Temples

Virupaksha Temple Vittala Temple Hoysaleswara Chennakesava

Temple Temple
(Somanathapura)

Vidyashankara Durga Temples Doddabasappa Gomateshwara

Temple (Aihole) Temple (Dambal) Temple
(ShravanaBelagola

Caves & Cave Temples in Karnataka

Caves in Karnataka are the finest specimen of its history, culture and spirituality. Cave
Temples of Badami are an important attraction of Karnataka Tourism. There are four major
caves in Badami and every cave is finely furnished with scriptures, sculptures and images of
Hindu gods, Mahavir, and other Jain Thirthankaras. Another finest example of caves in
Karnataka is the Kavala Caves. Nestled amidst the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Kavala is
amongst the few caves in India and are believed to be formed by the limestone. Exploring
caves are gradually becoming one of the most popular activities in Karnataka.

Famous Caves in Karnataka

Pandava caves (Mangalore) Cave Temples of Badami Yana Caves (Yana)
(Badami)

Ravana Phadi cave temple Hulimavu cave Temple Gavi Gangadhareshwara

(Aihoḷe) (Hulimavu) Temple (Hulimavu)
Mausoleums in Karnataka

Throughout the History, Karnataka land has witnessed wars and mutiny. Many renowned
leaders died during the war. Some leaders were shown respect by burying the dead body in
complex, ornate tombs, crypts, and catacombs while some by burying in funeral pyres. All
these mausoleums of the erstwhile are one of the famous monuments in Karnataka.
Karnataka's most famous mausoleum is the Bijapur's Gol Gumbad. Gol Gumbad, a slightly
bulbous dome, is the largest in the world after St Peter's in Rome. Another exquisite
mausoleum in Karnataka has been the Ibrahim Rauza, often described as the finest Islamic
building in the Deccan. The burial ground of Tipu Sultan, Gumbaz at Seringapatam, is one of
the prehistoric monuments in Karnataka. The mausoleum was originally built by Tipu Sultan
to hold the graves of his father Hyder Ali and mother Fakr-UN-Nisa. Gumbaz at
Seringapatam is an imposing architecture, located amidst the manicured Lalbagh Garden.
Famous Mausoleum in Karnataka
Gol Gumbaz or Gol Gumbadh-Mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah, Gumbaz at
Seringapatam, Ibrahim Rauza in Bijapur Fort.

2.2 Top historical place in Karnataka

Here is a list of some of the most famous historical places in Karnataka

 Hampi – City of Ruins

 Mysore – City of Palaces
 Bijapur – Biggest Domes in India
 Shimoga – Ancient Rulers and Dynasties
 Bangalore – The Silicon Valley
 Badami – Unique Rock Cut Temples
 Halebidu – The History of The Hoysala Empire
 Srirangapatna – Magnificent Architectural Masterpieces
 Aihole – The Temple Complex of Karnataka
 Dandeli – Ancient Limestone Caves
 Ramanagaram – Age-Old Silk Trade
 Hassan – The Elegant Hasanamba Temple
 Bidar – The Seat of Ancient Kingdoms
 Talakadu – Temples Buried in Sand
 Melukote – The Religious Land
  Somnathpur – Land of Vaishnava Temple
 Mirjan Fort – Holding the Historical Ruins
 Madikeri Fort – The Gem Of 17th Century
 Sringeri – Explore the Ancient Relics
 Pattadakal – The UNESCO Heritage Site
 Karkala – Home to Jain Temples

1. Hampi – City of Ruins

Also called as the ‗City of Ruins‘, Hampi is one of the most famous historical places in
Karnataka under UNESCO. The city is known for its ancient temples and monuments that
date back to a thousand years. It has been an important seat in the history of Karnataka and
has around 500 ancient temples; archaeological monuments; treasury building; bastions.
What makes this place a famous backpacker‘s delight is its hippie vibe along with vibrant
street markets abound with handcrafts and souvenirs. Virupaksha Temple and Vithala Temple
are the most famous historical places in Hampi. To explore the major historical monuments
of Karnataka, make sure to visit this fascinating city.
Places to Stay: Hotel Gowri, SunRise Point Hampi, KSTDC Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari
Kamalapur, Hyatt Place Hampi, GLN Guest House Hampi
Places to Visit: Vijaya Vittala Temple, Sri Virupaksha Temple, Hanuman Temple, Hemakuta
Hill Temple Complex

Things to do in Hampi: Trekking, Camping, Museums, visiting Hampi temples, Nature

Walks, Taxi Boat Rides, Cliff Jumping and Swimming etc

Best time to visit Hampi: October to February as the monsoons make the hills and hilly
roads slippery
2. Bijapur – Biggest Domes in India

Home to the world-famous Gol Gumbaz or Gol Gummata, Bijapur is a must-visit historical
place in North Karnataka. It is the mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah with a big circular
domethat imparts this city its name. Gol Gumbaz is a single mammoth structure and is one of
the biggest domes in India. The city houses numerous prominent historical monuments of
Karnataka. Shivagiri, Jama Masjid and Bara Kaman are some of the prominent landmarks to
explore in Bijapur. Bijapur is well-connected to other offbeat historical places in Karnataka
and is an ideal spot for day-excursions.
Places to Stay: The Fern Residency, Hotel Le Grande, Kyriad Hotel, Shashinag Residency,
Hotel Godavari International

Things to do in Bijapur: Visit monuments and places of interest, explore the numerous
palaces and garden tours.

Best Time to visit Bijapur: October to February

3. Shimoga – Ancient Rulers and Dynasties

The list of top 10 historical places in Karnataka cannot be complete without the mention of
Shimoga which was an important seat for many dynasties. Have a rendezvous with its bygone
rulers at Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum. Shivamogga is also home to the exotic flora and
fauna of Karnataka. Nature is abounding with tigers and other wild animals. The gushing
waterfalls like Jog Falls, Dabbe falls, etc also put this place on bucket list of every wanderlust
soul.
Places to Stay: Tip Top Residency, River Tern Lodge, Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa, Hombuja
Residency, Gabadi River Edge

Places to Visit: Jog Falls, Kodachadri, Dabbe Falls, Kundadri, Agumbe

Things to do in Shimoga: Visit Agumbe, Kodachadri; explore waterfalls; forests; Tiger and
Lion Safari; Bird-watching; trekking; water sports; history tours and nature walks

Best Time to visit Shimoga: October to March

4. Bangalore – The Silicon Valley

Before it became the Silicon Valley of India, it was already a focal point of politics,
commerce, and trade in Karnataka. Bangalore is yet another notable mention in the list of
historical places in Karnataka and has palaces, fort and lots of other places to visit. Bangalore
offers a sneak peek into the political, cultural, traditional and religious history of the region.
Apart from having an interesting history, the places in Bangalore are also a seat of modern
and urban living.

Places to Stay: Astam, Legacy, Serene Mist Resort, The Bougain Villa, Mango Mist Resorts,
Villa Serena

Places to Visit: Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan‘s Summer Palace, National Gallery of
Modern Art, Vidhana Soudha

Things to do in Bangalore: Explore forts, halls, memorial halls, palaces, gardens and other
places; art galleries; museums; fine dining; boating and music concerts

Best Time to visit Bangalore: Bangalore can be explored throughout the year; but
September to March is the best time.
5. Badami – Unique Rock Cut Temples

Badami is one of the offbeat historical places in Karnataka where you will find exquisite
temples and historical monuments. The megalithic dolmens are the evidence that this city was
settled in prehistoric times. The unique rock-cut temples of Mahakuta are the main reason
why people come to visit this place. The red sandstone cliffs, Badami Fort, and Agastya Lake
are other major attractions of Badami. Rock Climbing is one of the most famous activities for
the adventure enthusiasts.
Places to Stay: Hotel Badami Court, KSTDC Hotel Mayura Chalukya, Clarks Inn Badami,
Agastya Villa by Vista Rooms

Places to Visit: Magnificent Badami Cave Temples, Alluring Bhutanatha Group of Temples,
Traditional Mallikarjuna Group of Temples, Mesmerizing Badami Fort

Things to do in Badami: Rock Climbing, Archaeological tours; temples; caves exploration

and nature walks.

Best Time to visit Badami: July to March

6. Halebidu – The History Of The Hoysala Empire

Located in Hassan district, Halebidu is also one of the most famous historical places in
Karnataka. The city used to be the capital of Hoysala Empire during the 12th century. No
wonder you will find glimpses of Hoysala architecture in the temples and monuments of
Halebidu. Its shrines and temple complexes are amazing and awe-inspiring. Hoysaleshwara
and Kedareshwara temples are some of the most important historical sites in Halebidu that
you must visit.
Things to do in Halebidu: Visit Belur; temples; Dam, Museums, archaeological
monuments; shopping and Hoysala Mahotsava celebration.

Best Time to visit Halebidu: October to February

7.Srirangapatna – Magnificent Architectural Masterpieces

Srirangapatna is located in Mandya district and is an egg-shaped island in river Cauvery.

Only 15 km from Mysore city, it makes an excellent day excursion. Srirangapatna is home to
some of the most magnificent architectural masterpieces from Vijayanagara and Hoysala
kingdom. The Ranganathaswamy Temple holds a special place in the heritage of Karnataka
and is thronged by millions of visitors every year. It is the most important temple of
Vaishnavites
Things to do in Srirangapatna: Waterfalls, temples, bird watching, garden walks and
exploring historical places and landmarks

Best Time to visit Srirangapatna: July to March is the best time to visit Srirangapatna.

8. Aihole – The Temple Complex of Karnataka

Aihole is one of the most famous historical places in Karnataka, which is also called the
temple complex of Karnataka. It has more than 100 carved temples from the Chalukya
Empire and is also most likely to be included in the list of historical places in Karnataka
under UNESCO.

Things to do in Aihole: Visit temples and temple complexes, hill climbing and exploring the
other archaeological places.

Best Time to visit Aihole: The best time to visit Aihole is from October to March.

9. Dandeli – Ancient Limestone Caves

Situated in the Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, Dandeli is blessed with the verdant
foliage, dense forests, and smashing views owing to the fact that it lies on the banks of the
Kali River. But what really makes it stand out from other historical places in Karnataka are
its limestone caves. Formed by volcanic activities, the famous Kavala Caves in Dandeli draw
a huge influx of tourists every year with their bizarre winding tunnels and about 375 entrance
steps. Home to snakes and bats, these caves have huge stalagmite structures which are a
major attraction for devotees of Lord Shiva and counted among the best heritage places in
Karnataka.
Places to Stay: Dandeli Daze, Dandeli – Jungle Nest, Dandeli Jungle Villa, Greenland Jungle
Stay, Shobha Villa

Places to Visit: River Kali, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Shiroli Peak, Molangi Falls, Disney
Park, Kodasalli Backwaters

Best time to visit Dandeli: October to May

10. Hassan – The Elegant Hasanamba Temple

Located 187 km away from Bangalore in the Malnad and Maidan districts, Hassan is famous
as the temple-architecture capital of Karnataka. In fact, Hassan draws its name from the
presiding deity Goddess Hasanamba, which means ―smiling mother‖ in the Kannada
language. Mainly popular for the magnificent Hassanamba Temple, Hassan is among the
most popular historical temples in Karnataka. However, its ancient Hoysala architecture can
also be seen in many other structures in the city. From the Shettihalli Church to the revered
Jain temples across Hassan, you can find this unique and age-old architecture dominating
various structures across this town.
Places to Stay: Capital O 63523 Hotel Palika, Shreevara Residency, Amber Castle, Hotel
Abhiruchi Lodging, Hotel Southern Star Hassan
Places to Visit: Shettihalli Church, Hasanamba Temple, Lakshmi Devi Temple, Maharaja
Park, Gorur Dam

Things to do in Hassan: Visit temples for their Hoysala architecture and history

Best time to visit Hassan: Year-round

11. Bidar – The Seat Of Ancient Kingdoms

Boasting its rich culture and heritage, Bidar is a flourishing city in South India that is packed
with numerous historical monuments of Karnataka famed for their bewitching architecture,
interesting history, and ancient artifacts. Bidar was once the center of power for many great
kingdoms like the Chalukyas, Allauddin Khilji, and Muhammad bin Tughluq, all of whom
had left a great history and heritage for this city along with a rich architectural legacy. The
presence of several temples, mosques, and tombs brings a lot of tourists to this city every
year.
Things to do in Bidar: Visit temples, mosques, and tombs; explore the flora and fauna
Ideal for: History geeks, architecture lovers, pilgrims

Best time to visit Bidar: October to March

12. Talakadu – Temples Buried in Sand

Sitting snugly on the banks of the Kaveri River in Karnataka, the town of Talakadu is a
mystical place with a rich history and heritage. It is famous for many historical temples in
Karnataka that are located within its premises, the most prominent of them being the
Vaidyanatheshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees of Shiva come here from
every nook and corner of the country at least once in their life to bathe in its aura and spiritual
vibe. Other than this shrine, there are several other temples here that have been dug out from
under the sand and are excavated once every 12 years for the ‗Panchalinga Darshana‘, a
special form of worship.
Things to do in Talakadu: Visit the unique temples

Best time to visit Talakadu: November to March

13. Somnathpur – Land of Vaishnava Temple

Situated at the banks of the Kaveri River, Somanathapura temple is considered to be one of
the beautiful towns. This place is famous for preserving the beautiful architecture of the
Hoysala which is also called Prasanna Chennakeseva Temple or Kesava temple. This was
built during the year 1258 CE and it is a Vaishnava hindu temple where Lord Krishna is
worshipped. The temple is one among the 1500 temples which were built by the kings of
Hoysala empire. Nominated as a Unesco World Heritage Site, this place is a home to one of
the famous monuments of Karnataka.
Things To Do: Sightseeing, Temple Tour

Best Time to Visit: October-March

14. Madikeri Fort – The Gem Of 17th Century

This is one of the main highlights of Coorg in Karnataka and offers a pleasant escape from
the hustle-bustle. Located at the Madikeri town, this fort gives an insight of the glorious
history of Coorg and is one of the most prominent landmarks amongst all the Karnataka
historical places. From the elevated architecture of the fort to the amazing views to admire in
the backdrop, this place appears like a painted picture. Built in the 17th century by Muddu
Raja, this fort is considered as one of the important historical monuments of Karnataka.

Places to Stay: Grand Mercure Mysore, The Raviz Calicut, Fairfield By Marriott
Coimbatore, Royal Orchid Central, Hotel Sai Palace

Places to Visit: Raja‘s Seat, Omkareshwara Temple, Raja‘s Tomb, Kootu Poley Dam
Best Time To Visit: July-September
15. Pattadakal – The UNESCO Heritage Site

Amongst all the Karnataka historical places, this is considered as the treasure trove of the
Hindu and Jain temples in South India. The Pattadakal shares boundaries with the Aihole-
Badami-Pattadakal complex which is titled as a UNESCO heritage site. Located at the banks
of the river Malaprabha, the place holds its legacy and dates back to the 4th century.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple here showcases a beautiful blend of North and South
Indian architecture and counted among the wonderful heritage sites in Karnataka.
Things To Do: Sightseeing, Temple Tour

Best Time to Visit: February-December

North Karnataka

North Karnataka is a treasure trave of cultural, historical, and natural heritage, offering a
unique blend of experiences for tourists.

2.3 Best Tourist Places in North Karnataka

Location: City of Bellary, Bellary District
The mighty fort atop the Ballari Gudda hill can be seen from any part of the city as if it was
standing watch to this day.
The defensive structure on Fort Hill was the first one to be constructed back in the days of the
Vijayanagara Empire. Visitors to Bellary will notice that there are two sections of the fort
now, simply designated as Upper and Lower Fort. The lower section was added in the 18th
century by the French engineer working for Sultan Hayder Ali. You can visit the engineer‘s
grave, as he met an unfortunate end at the hands of the displeased sultan.

Durga Temple
Location: Historic Site of Aihole, Bagalkot District
The most visited temple in Aihole, Durga Temple is shrouded in mystery in both how it got
its name (no connection to goddess Durga) and origin. Experts can‘t really pinpoint the exact
century when Durga was constructed with estimates ranging from the 5th to the 8th century.

Kudala Sangama

Location: Bagalkot District

Lingayats are considered to be a sect of Hinduism, as they do share a lot of tenets with their
Hindu brethren and their worship Shiva. Each year, they make their pilgrimage right here, to
Kudala Sangama.
While it is an important spiritual core of Lingayats, tourism is also prevalent at Kudala
Sangama, a temple town near Almatti Dam in Bagalkot. As a matter of fact, more and more
tourists have begun to realize the potential of Kudala Sangama and its many landmarks.

Godchinamalaki Falls
Location: Belagavi District
While it may seem as if the only places you can visit in North Karnataka are temples and
forts, that is far from the truth, as this semi-arid landscape also features some tucked away
lush treasures.
Godchinamalaki Falls, also known as Markandeya Falls, is only accessible by two roads.
That‘s quite expected of a forgotten paradise, otherwise, visitors would be swarming this
beautiful destination and it would lose most of its charm. You can either take Malebail road
from the village of Godchinamalaki or go past the Gurusiddeshwar Temple. The latter option
will also introduce you to this grandiose temple.

Kamal Basadi

Location: Belagavi District

It was the capital of the Rattas who shifted to this place from Saundatti during the close of
12th century A.D. The place has a fort inside which built by one Ratta Officer called
Bichirajain 1204 A.D. exhibits the execution of a totally refined style of temple architecture.
It has excellently and artistically carved Kamala Basadi having huge protruding lotus petals
of stone (Kamala) in its ceiling and this beautiful structure in Chalukya style houses
Neminatha Teerthankara image.
The fort was strengthened by the Adilshahis and there is an excellent structure, Safa
Mosque with three entrances, has rich floral and impressive calligraphic designs. Two of its
pillars have Kannada Inscriptions in Nagari Scripts, one of 1199 of Ratta King Kartaveerya
IV and another of 1261 is of Seuna (Yadava) Krishna.

Mahadeva Temple Itagi

Location Koppal district,
The Mahadeva temple at Itagi (Ittagi) is about 7 km from Kuknur in Yalburga Taluka in the
Koppal District. The temple is one of the temples built by the Chalukyas and is known as the
"Emperor among temples".

Chapter 3
3.1 GENERAL INFORMATION ON HERITAGE TOURISM IN
KARNATAKA
Heritage Sites:
- Hampi (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Mysore Palace
- Hoysala temples (Belur, Halebidu, Somnathpur)
- Vijayanagara Empire ruins
- Badami caves
- Pattadakal temples
- Aihole temples

Festivals and Events:

- Mysore Dasara
- Hampi Festival
- Yakshagana puppet shows
- Karnataka Rajyotsava (state formation day)
- Ugadi (Kannada New Year)

Cultural Heritage:
- Traditional music and dance (Yakshagana, Kathakali, Bharatanatyam)
- Handicrafts (sandalwood carving, Mysore silk weaving, Channapatna toys)
- Cuisine (dosas, idlis, biryanis, ragi mudde)

Natural Heritage:
- Western Ghats (hill stations, forests, waterfalls)
- Beaches (Karwar, Mangalore, Udupi)
- Wildlife sanctuaries (Nagarhole, Bandipur, Bannerghatta)
Tourist Circuits:
- Golden Triangle (Bengaluru-Mysore-Hampi)
- Heritage Circuit (Hampi-Badami-Pattadakal-Aihole)
- Coastal Circuit (Mangalore-Udupi-Karwar)
- Hill Station Circuit (Coorg-Nandi Hills-Shivanasamudra)

Infrastructure:
- Bengaluru International Airport
- Well-connected road network
- Heritage hotels and resorts
- Homestays and guesthouses

Government Initiatives:
- Karnataka Tourism Vision 2025
- Heritage Tourism Policy
- Tourism infrastructure development

3.2 Characteristics of heritage tourism in Karnataka

1. Diverse cultural heritage: Karnataka has a unique blend of Hindu, Muslim, Jain, and
Buddhist influences, reflected in its architecture, festivals, and traditions.
2. Temples and monuments: Karnataka is home to numerous ancient temples, palaces, and
monuments, such as Hampi, Mysore Palace, and Hoysala temples.
3. Festivals and celebrations: Vibrant festivals like Mysore Dasara, Hampi Festival, and
Yakshagana puppet shows showcase the state's cultural richness.
4. Natural heritage: Karnataka's diverse landscapes, including Western Ghats, beaches, and
wildlife sanctuaries, offer opportunities for eco-tourism.
5. Cuisine: Karnataka's cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and biryanis, is a fusion of different
culinary traditions.
6. Local artisans and crafts: Visitors can experience traditional crafts like sandalwood
carving, Mysore silk weaving, and Channapatna toys.
7. Royal heritage: Karnataka's history of kingdoms and dynasties is reflected in its palaces,
forts, and regal traditions.
8. Spiritual and religious significance: Karnataka is home to numerous sacred sites, such as
the Gokarna temple and the Sufi shrine of Hazrat Khwaja Bande Nawaz.
9. Rural tourism: Visitors can experience rural Karnataka's rustic charm, with opportunities to
stay in village homestays and engage in farm activities.
10. Government initiatives: The Karnataka government has launched initiatives to promote
heritage tourism, including the "Karnataka Tourism Vision 2025" program.
Chapter-4
4.1 The current structure of heritage tourism in Karnataka
The current structure of heritage tourism in Karnataka is divided into four geographical
regions: North Karnataka, the Hill Stations, Coastal Karnataka, and South Karnataka.
- North Karnataka is home to ancient monuments, including the Gol Gumbaz and Bijapur.
- The Hill Stations offer natural beauty and popular spots like Coorg and Nandi Hills.
- Coastal Karnataka boasts beautiful beaches and destinations like Karwar and Mangalore.
- South Karnataka features Mysore Palace and Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Additionally, the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation works to promote
tourism in the state, and the government has introduced The Golden Chariot, a train
connecting popular tourist destinations in Karnataka and Goa.

4.2 managing risk in heritage tourism in Karnataka

1. Preserve and Protect: Regular maintenance and restoration of Karnataka's heritage sites,
such as Hampi, Mysore Palace, and Badami Caves.
2. Sustainable Tourism Practices: Encourage eco-friendly accommodations, reduce plastic
waste, and promote responsible travel behaviors in destinations like Coorg and Chikmagalur.
3. Risk Assessments and Contingency Planning: Identify potential risks (e.g., floods, fires)
and develop emergency response plans for sites like Pattadakal and Aihole.
4. Collaboration and Community Engagement: Involve local stakeholders in decision-
making processes, ensuring their concerns are addressed in destinations like Gokarna and
Udupi.
5. Visitor Management: Implement measures to manage visitor flow, reduce congestion,
and prevent damage to sites like Belur and Halebidu.
6. Education and Awareness: Educate tourists about Karnataka's cultural and historical
significance, promoting respect and appreciation.
7. Regulatory Frameworks: Establish and enforce regulations to protect heritage sites from
exploitation and damage.
8. Insurance and Emergency Funding: Secure insurance coverage and emergency funding
for unexpected events or disasters.
9. Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly monitor and assess the impact of tourism on
heritage sites, making adjustments as needed.
10. Stakeholder Partnerships: Foster partnerships between government agencies, local
communities, and tourism stakeholders to ensure collaborative risk management.
Chapter 5
Finding
1. Heritage tourism has generated significant revenue for local communities, contributing to
their economic development.
2. Heritage tourism has raised awareness and appreciation for Karnataka's cultural heritage,
encouraging its preservation for future generations.
3. Heritage tourism has created employment opportunities in the tourism industry, benefiting
local communities.
4. Heritage tourism has driven investment in infrastructure development, improving facilities
and services for tourists and locals alike.

Suggestion
1. Offer themed tours (e.g., architecture, history, culture) to enhance the tourist experience.
2. Encourage local communities to share their stories, traditions, and skills with tourists.
3. Organize workshops on traditional crafts, music, and art to promote cultural heritage.
4. Celebrate cultural festivals and events to showcase Karnataka's rich cultural heritage.
5. Develop heritage-themed accommodations (e.g., heritage hotels, homestays) to enhance
the tourist experience.
6. Create digital platforms (e.g., apps, websites) to showcase Karnataka's cultural heritage
and provide tourist information.
7. Implement initiatives to improve accessibility for tourists with disabilities.
8. Encourage sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-friendly transportation and waste
management.
9. Collaborate with social media influencers and travel bloggers to promote Karnataka's
heritage tourism.
10. Offer customized heritage tourism packages to attract different types of tourists.
11. Develop education programs to raise awareness about Karnataka's cultural heritage
among tourists and local communities.
12. Develop community-based tourism projects to benefit local communities and promote
cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Two-year studies on master programme on tourism is really amazing experience for getting
settle in the field of heritage tourism. I am sure that I am getting this study at 100% usage in
my currier over all the gaining experience and practical exposer are very satisfactorily. This
trip and study this is really wonderful experience in our student life especially I thanks to my
teacher for having with different kind of experience about the heritage tourism.
"In conclusion, Karnataka's rich cultural heritage and historical significance make it
an ideal destination for heritage tourism. The state's numerous ancient temples, forts, palaces,
and monuments showcase its architectural and artistic grandeur, attracting tourists from
around the world. Heritage tourism in Karnataka not only contributes significantly to the
local economy but also helps preserve the state's cultural legacy for future generations.

Reference:
Bibliography
"Karnataka: A Guide to the State" by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation
"Karnataka Tourism Policy 2020-2025" by the Karnataka State Tourism Development
Corporation
Karnataka Historical Review
Google Scholar (scholar.google.co.in) - for research papers and articles on heritage tourism in
Karnataka

Websites:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage_tourism
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_North_Karnataka_historical_sites
https://traveltriangle.com/blog/historical-places-in-karnataka/