Karnataka

Karnataka is an unforgettable escape. Spend a week or two in this Indian state and you can combine elephant rides with tiger safaris, sun bathing with sightseeing and dolphin spotting with cycle rides.

Karnataka sits between the already popular states of Goa and Kerala. It’s the new kid on the block when it comes to welcoming tourists, but Karnataka could soon steal the show. The beaches here are palm-backed stretches of soft golden sands where waves break against pebble-shaped boulders.

Life beyond the coast is equally exotic. Stay in Coorg and you’ll find yourself surrounded by a peaceful landscape of lush coffee plantations. Close by you can bathe elephants in a shallow stream. Just put on your swim suit and wade right in - they welcome a good scrub down with a coconut husk after a day working in the forest. A jeep safari through Nagarahole National Park is also a wild experience. You might see leopards, spotted deer, wild dogs, black-faced monkeys, striped hyena, wild boar or the extremely rare tiger.

There are plenty of man-made attractions, too including the temples at Belur and Halebeedu. Their walls are covered in a mass of ornately carved figurines and their cool interiors smell sweetly of flowers which have been left as offerings by visiting pilgrims. 

One of the greatest joys of visiting Karnataka, though, is the people you will meet. Whether you go on a pre-arranged village tour or simply buy oranges at a road-side market stall everyone seems happy that you are here. It’s the icing on the cake of an already fabulous holiday.

Eating out
Every meal time is a feast of fresh cooked curries, from sweet and mild to hot and spicy. These are typically accompanied by an array of chutneys, nan breads, rice and deep fried vegetables.

Nightlife
Spend your evenings star-gazing, sitting around the camp fire listening to stories or watching traditional dancers and acrobats perform at the larger lodges and hotels.

Shopping
The shops and markets in Mysore are the place to look for souvenirs. The city centre is buzzing at dusk and everything, from clothes to toiletries, seems to be much cheaper than back home.

Getting there
Avion holidays offer a selection of itineraries in Karnataka that give you the opportunity to experience all Karnataka has to offer. Prices for a 12-day tour start at £1300. The price includes return flights from Gatwick, some meals, superior accommodation, transport between attractions, entrance fees and the services of a knowledgeable and attentive guide. For more information visit www.avionholidays.co.uk or call  020 84923531.

1 March 2008