Karnataka

Karnātakā pronunciation (help•info) (Kannada: ಕನಾ೯ಟಕ) (IPA: [kəɹnɑːʈəkɑː]) is one of the four southern states of India. The modern state of Karnataka came into existence with the passage of the States Reorganisation Act (1956), with the incorporation of districts under the dominion of Bombay, Hyderabad, Madras State and Coorg within the existing state of Mysore State.

Karnataka's capital, Bengaluru/Bangalore, is the capital city of the state with a population of more than 6 million. Other major cities include Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli-Dharwad, Davanagere, Bellary, Hassan, Shimoga and Belgaum. Kannada is the official language of the state. Karnataka is the 8th largest Indian state by area and 9th largest by population.

Karnataka is well connected to the rest of India and the international world. The state has 6 airports in Bangalore, Mangalore, Hampi, Hubli, Belgaum, Bijapur, and Mysore. The Mysore airport is not operational. The HAL Airport in Bangalore and the Mangalore International Airport are the only airports currently offering international flights on a regular basis in Karnataka. Currently one international flight operates from Mangalore International Airport to Dubai. A brand new international airport near Devanahalli, Bangalore is expected to open by April 2008. Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) is owned by Siemens, Larsen & Toubro, Unique Zurich Airport, KSIIDC and Airport Authority of India. See See List of Destinations to/from all Karnataka Airports for all the destinations available for flights originating from Karnataka.

Karnataka popularly known for Carnatic Music through out the World has given much more to the World than Carnatic Music, a unique form of Classical Music patroned by many across the continents. Karnataka with all its Richness in Culture and Traditional Grandeur is also one of the fastest growing States in terms of Industries and Facilities. Karnataka is also known as the Capital of Agarbathi (Incense Sticks), Arecanut, Silk, Coffee and Sandal Wood. All this is apart from the fact that it has been the Culture Center for hundreds of years and its testimony stands spread across the State pulling millions of Tourists from all parts of the World to Karnataka. Whose richness and hospitality can only be felt and never explained better.

Karnataka is nature's kaleidoscope at its best. Lush green forests. Cool blue seas. Sparkling white waterfalls. Seemingly endless plains. And hills that almost touch the sky. All of which reflect the Creator's unlimited hues in full glory. Embark on a journey through Karnataka. Soak in the many sights, smells, and sounds. And experience the many worlds this one state has to offer. We'll assure you that it will be an experience of a lifetime!