Karnataka is one of the most industrialised states of India, and its capital city, Bangalore is at the forfront of the rapid economic and techonological development that India is experiencing. Karnataka has in the past also been home to some of the most powerful empires of ancient and medieval India.
At Hampi in central Karnataka, are the ruins of the capital of one of South India's largest historical empires, the Vijaynagar Empire (14th-16th century); the 16th century Vittala Temple is a World Heritage site, but there are many other sites of interest in and around Hampi. The towns of Belur and Halebid are in the south, they are famous for their 12th century temples built by the Hoysala dynasty. Stravanbelgola is also in south Karnataka and is host to probably the world's tallest monolithic statue, a 17 m high image of a Jain deity built in the 10th century. The village of Badami in the north is famous for its ancient cave temples built between the 6th and 8th centuries.
Kanataka's manifold attractions also include the wildlife sanctuary at Bandipur, famous for its tiger and elephant reserve and protected sandalwood trees, this 890 sq km park is one of India's most delightful wildlife sancturies. Among other national parks are Nagarhole, Dandeli and the Ranganathittu Bird's Sanctuary.
Also worth visiting are hill stations like Nandhi Hills, Kemmannagindi and Mercara - Karnataka produces almost 60% of all India's coffee. Madikeri is the main town of the hilly tracts of southwestern Karnataka. The area has a number of spice and coffee plantations and is good for trekking, the area is also home to the Jog Falls, the highest plunge waterfall in India.
The western coastline of the state along the Arabian Sea has a number of beach towns and resorts, including Mangalore, Karwar, Gokarna, Malpe, Ullal and Marwanthe.
