October is the perfect time to explore the diverse beauty of Karnataka, as the state transforms into a stunning paradise with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and pleasant weather. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, there are many serene places to visit in October in Karnataka that will satiate your wanderlust. October’s mild climate makes it ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and wildlife exploration, enhancing the allure of Karnataka’s scenic beauty. Here are 15 beautiful places you should visit for an unforgettable autumn escape in Karnataka.
15 Scenic Places To Visit In October In Karnataka
Take advantage of the crisp fall weather by visiting these 15 places to visit in October in Karnataka for the perfect escape!
1. Coorg

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Known as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is famous for its coffee plantations, misty hills, and serene landscapes. Coorg is a haven for nature lovers, offering scenic drives through lush greenery and spice plantations. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in river rafting or explore the beautiful coffee estates. Don’t miss a visit to the Namdroling Monastery, one of the top places to visit in Coorg for a serene experience. Also, the local Kodava cuisine is a must-try for food lovers.
Major Attractions: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Talacauvery, Raja’s Seat
Ideal For: Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and couples
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Coorg
2. Chikmagalur

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A haven for coffee lovers, this hill station offers misty hills, lush coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls. Chikmagalur’s charm lies in its serene beauty and less crowded spaces. It’s a trekker’s paradise with the Mullayanagiri Peak offering panoramic views. Nature lovers can explore the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, home to exotic wildlife. Don’t forget to visit the coffee estates for a unique tour. Chikmagalur is also a gateway to scenic waterfalls like Jhari and Manikyadhara.
Major Attractions: Mullayanagiri Peak, Hebbe Falls, Baba Budangiri, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and couples
3. Gokarna

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A serene coastal town with pristine beaches and temples, Gokarna is perfect for a peaceful getaway. Gokarna is a blend of spirituality and relaxation. While the beaches offer a tranquil retreat, the town’s temples like Mahabaleshwar bring a spiritual essence to the trip. You can enjoy long walks along the beach, try yoga by the sea, or savour fresh seafood at the local shacks. Sunset views here are magical, providing the perfect end to a serene day.
Major Attractions: Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Gokarna Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple
Ideal For: Beach lovers, spiritual travellers, and backpackers
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gokarna
4. Mysore

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A city rich in history and culture, Mysore is famous for its royal heritage and the Dussehra festival, which happens in October. October in Mysore is synonymous with the grandeur of Dussehra, where the Mysore Palace is illuminated, creating a stunning visual. The streets are lively with cultural processions, making it an ideal time to visit. Apart from the festivities, Mysore is a shopper’s paradise, known for silk sarees and sandalwood products. Karanji Lake here is one of the serene places to visit in Mysore for couples, offering a tranquil retreat.
Major Attractions: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, Brindavan Gardens, St. Philomena’s Church
Ideal For: History buffs, cultural explorers, and families
5. Hampi

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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi offers a stunning mix of ancient temples, ruins, and boulder-strewn landscapes. Hampi is like stepping into a living museum with its ancient structures spread across the landscape. The intricate carvings and grand architecture tell stories of a glorious past. You can explore by foot, bicycle, or take a coracle ride along the Tungabhadra River. Sunsets at Hemakuta Hill offer breathtaking views of the ruins. Hampi’s unique geography, with giant boulders, creates a surreal setting.
Major Attractions: Virupaksha Temple, Vithala Temple, Lotus Mahal, Hampi Bazaar
Ideal For: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and photographers
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Hampi
6. Bandipur National Park

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Bandipur National Park, famous for its tiger reserve and biodiversity, is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Bandipur offers thrilling safari experiences where you can spot tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species. The park’s rich flora and fauna come alive after the monsoons, making October an ideal time for nature lovers. You can also explore nearby Mudumalai National Park and the Nilgiri Biosphere. Staying in eco-friendly lodges within the park offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
Major Attractions: Jungle safaris, tiger sightings, bird watching
Ideal For: Wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and nature photographers
7. Kabini

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A picturesque river and wildlife destination, Kabini is known for its backwaters and lush forests. The Kabini backwaters are a serene sight, ideal for boating or enjoying a quiet afternoon by the river. Wildlife safaris here often lead to sightings of leopards, elephants, and various bird species. The dense forests of Nagarhole are mesmerizing during October, offering lush green views after the rains. For those seeking a blend of luxury and nature, the riverside resorts provide tranquil stays with stunning views of the wilderness.
Major Attractions: Jungle safaris, Kabini River, Nagarhole National Park
Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and couples
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kabini
8. Sakleshpur

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A quiet hill station known for its coffee plantations and scenic treks, Sakleshpur offers a refreshing retreat. Sakleshpur’s calm atmosphere makes it a great destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The treks through the Western Ghats offer spectacular views, and the rich biodiversity is perfect for nature lovers. Exploring the historic Manjarabad Fort gives you a glimpse into the region’s past, while Bisle View Point offers panoramic views of the valleys.
Major Attractions: Bisle View Point, Manjarabad Fort, Jenukal Gudda, Hemavathi Reservoir
Ideal For: Adventure lovers, trekkers, and those seeking solitude
9. Jog Falls

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One of India’s highest waterfalls, Jog Falls is an awe-inspiring sight during October after the monsoon. Jog Falls in October is a sight to behold as the cascading waters from a height create a roaring sound. The surrounding greenery is lush and adds to the beauty of the falls. There are multiple viewpoints where you can capture stunning photos, and adventurous souls can trek down to the base of the falls.
Major Attractions: Jog Falls (Raja, Rani, Roarer, Rocket), Linganamakki Dam
Ideal For: Nature lovers, photographers, and families
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Jog Falls
10. Chitradurga

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A historical town known for its massive fort and rocky terrain, Chitradurga is rich in heritage and natural beauty. Chitradurga Fort is a marvel of medieval architecture, spread over several hills and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort’s intricate design with secret pathways and massive gateways makes it a fascinating place to explore. Don’t miss a visit to the Chandravalli Caves, an ancient archaeological site filled with historical significance and one of the top places to visit in Chitradurga.
Major Attractions: Chitradurga Fort, Chandravalli Caves, Vani Vilasa Sagara
Ideal For: History enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and explorers
11. Badami

Badami, located in a valley of rugged red sandstone, is one of the top places to visit in October in Karnataka with family. This archaeological site is decked with sandstone cave temples, fortresses and carvings. It is an ideal destination for travellers wanting to dive deep into the rich history and vibrant culture of Karnataka. Here, you can witness a number of architectural marvels showcasing Dravidian designs. From the tranquil Agastya Lake to the iconic Badami Fort and Bhuthanatha Temples, there’s a lot to explore in Badami.
Major Attractions: Badami Cave Temples, Agastya Lake, and Badami Fort
Ideal For: History enthusiasts, architecture & art lovers, and photographers
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Badami For An Unforgettable Experience
12. Udupi

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Udupi, a coastal town, is one of the serene places to visit in October in Karnataka with friends. With beautifully carved ancient temples, Udupi offers a glimpse of teh rich heritage of Karnataka. In addition to spirituality, this place is also known for its tranquil beaches and breathtaking natural beauty. Some of the prominent places here include St. Mary’s Island, Malpe Beach, Krishna Temple, Kaup Beach, Delta Beach, and more. It is an excellent spot for travellers seeking a spiritual retreat in the arms of nature.
Major Attractions: Sri Krishna Matha, Malpe Beach, and St. Mary’s Island
Ideal For: Spiritual Seekers and beach lovers
13. Dandeli

Dandeli, located on the Western Ghats of Uttara Karnataka, is a picturesque town. It is helmed with lofty peaks, lush green forests, and gushing rivers. Dandeli is also popular for offering adventurous activities including river rafting, mountain biking, trekking, cycling, kayaking and canoeing. The highlight of this place is the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Kali Tiger Reserve, Magod Falls, Ulavi Temple, and Kavala Caves are some of the top places you should explore while visiting this serene abode.
Major Attractions: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Kali River, and Syntheri Rocks
Ideal For: Adventure seekers, nature & wildlife lovers, and birdwatchers
Suggested Read: Discover Popular Places To Visit In Dandeli For A Scenic Retreat
14. Kemmanagundi

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Kemmanagundi, a scenic hill station blessed with waterfalls and rose gardens, is one of the unique places to visit in October in Karnataka. A paradisical abode for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Kemmanagundi offers a perfect getaway in the lap of nature. Here, you can enjoy trekking through the rugged trails, nature walks amidst lush greenery, and picnics. The Rock garden, Z point, Hebbe falls, Kalahasti falls, and the Shiva temple are a few must-see attractions here.
Major Attractions: Z Point, Hebbe Falls, and Kalhatti Falls
Ideal For: Nature lovers, adventurers, and photographers
15. Shimoga

Photo: Arkadeep Meta / Wikimedia Commons
Shimoga, suffused with a tapestry of natural beauty, boasts lush greenery, verdant paddy fields, and gleaming waterfalls. The four rivers, namely Sharavathi, Kumudavathi, Tungabhadra and Varada, add a mystical charm to this place. Kodachadri, Jog Falls, Agumbe, Honnemaradu, Keladi, and Tyavarekoppa are some of the notable attractions here. Bounty in nature’s awe-inspiring beauty, Shimoga is an excellent spot for travellers seeking a tranquil retreat in nature’s embrace.
Major Attractions: Jog Falls, Sakrebailu Elephant Camp, and Keladi Rameshwara Temple
Ideal For: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventurers
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Shimoga For A Serene Getaway
October’s pleasant weather enhances the beauty of Karnataka, making it the perfect time to explore. So pack your bags and embark on an enchanting journey through Karnataka’s vibrant tapestry, where every corner reveals a story waiting to be discovered. Adventure and serenity await—don’t miss out on this incredible autumn getaway with these 10 places to visit in October in Karnataka! Book your trip today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: SWE-Yaatrik / Wikimedia Commons