Bandipur: A Sanctuary for Wildlife
Tucked away on the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Bandipur is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and home to some of India’s best wildlife sightings. It’s not unusual here to spot tigers on a jeep safari or watch elephants strolling through dry, open forest paths.
It’s an old hunting ground turned national park, and today, it’s a sanctuary for animals and for people who’ve had enough of the city chaos. You come here to breathe. You come here to feel the jungle.
Looking to stay somewhere close to the wild but still comfortable? The Serai Bandipur is set right on the edge of the park. Their rooms open out to the forest, and the place strikes a neat balance between rustic charm and modern convenience.
Chikmagalur - The Land of Coffee and Calm
Drive a few hours from Bangalore and you’ll find yourself in Chikmagalur, a sleepy little hill town that wakes up to the smell of fresh coffee and misty sunrises. This is where coffee was first planted in India, and it’s still the heart of it all.
Take a walk through the plantations, trek up to Mullayanagiri (the state’s highest peak), or visit Baba Budangiri and Hebbe Falls. The trails are gentle, the air is cooler, and the vibe - unhurried.
If you're in need of a proper nature detox, check in at The Serai Chikmagalur. It's built right within a coffee estate, and their villas and rooms are designed to let you disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature..
Kabini - Serenity on the Riverbanks
Once a favourite hunting spot for royals, Kabini today is one of the most rewarding places for wildlife lovers. It lies along the river of the same name and is bordered by Nagarhole National Park, which means the animal action here is intense, especially in the dry months when herds gather by the water.
Hop onto a boat safari and glide past elephants, birds, and maybe even a basking croc or two. Or take the traditional jeep safari route for a chance to spot the elusive black panther - yes, that’s not a myth here.
The Serai Kabini sits right by the river, with cottages that open out to water views. Their rooms offer quiet luxury, and the setting makes it easy to forget the rest of the world even exists.
Offbeat Places in Karnataka That Deserve a Spot on Your List
Looking for something a little different? Here are a few lesser-explored corners of Karnataka that are worth checking out:
Gokarna:Think of Gokarna as Goa’s calmer cousin. It’s got the beaches, the sunsets, and the seafood, minus the party crowds. A lovely mix of laid-back and spiritual.
Agumbe: If monsoons thrill you, Agumbe is the place. Often called the ‘Cherrapunji of the South’, it’s a rainforest that stays lush year-round, home to rare species like the King Cobra.
Hampi:And for the history buffs, there’s Hampi - a surreal landscape of boulders and ruins that was once a thriving empire. Every stone here has a story to tell.