Just like the Seven Wonders of the World, Karnataka proudly showcases its own Seven Wonders. Announced by the then Chief Minister and Tourism minister of Karnataka in a Glittering Proclamation ceremony attended by hundreds of prominent personalities of Karnataka.
Just like the iconic 7 World Wonders, Karnataka now proudly showcases its very own Official Seven Wonders of Karnataka, unveiled in 2023 through a grand initiative by Asianet Suvarna News and Kannada Prabha, in association with the Karnataka Tourism Department. This landmark campaign combined over 82 lakh public votes, 5,000 nominations, and an in-depth evaluation by a panel of global tourism, history and heritage experts.
Announced at a glittering ceremony by the then Chief Minister Mr. Basavaraj Bommai and Tourism Minister Anand Singh, this unique recognition celebrates the extraordinary diversity and cultural richness of Karnataka. Each of these wonders represents a distinct category — from natural landscapes and historic architecture to scientific achievements and philosophical depth.
Explore these wonders and experience Karnataka like never before.
Wonder -1: Hirebenakal Dolmens
Pre-Historic Wonder
Like the Briton’s Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Egypt it has 3000-4000 old Human History
Dubbed the “Stonehenge of South India,” Hirebenakal in Karnataka is a 3,000–4,000-year-old megalithic necropolis and one of the Seven Wonders of Karnataka. Home to over 400 prehistoric rock tombs atop Moryara Hill, it is South India’s largest such site—an awe-inspiring tribute to ancient civilizations, yet still unknown to many modern-day Kannadigas.
Wonder – 2: Hampi
Archeological Wonder
Like Rome or Jordan’s Jerash, Hampi is world’s finest open-air archaeological museums
Like Rome or Jordan’s Jerash, Hampi is one of the world’s finest open-air archaeological museums. A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Karnataka’s Seven Wonders, Hampi showcases the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire through majestic temples, musical pillars, and iconic monuments like the Stone Chariot—where every stone tells a story.
Wonder – 3: Gol Gumbaz
Architectural Wonder
Black Taj Mahal of India and one of the world’s largest whispering domes
Known as the Black Taj Mahal of Karnataka, Gol Gumbaz in Vijayapura is a 17th-century Indo-Islamic marvel and one of the world’s largest whispering domes. A whisper at one end echoes seven times across the vast chamber, showcasing extraordinary acoustics, geometry, and design. This royal mausoleum is Karnataka’s symphony in stone and architectural pride.
Wonder – 4: Gomateshwara, Shravanabelagola
Philosophical Wonder
Karnataka’s Answer to – Christ the Redeemer Statue of Brazils Rio de Janeiro
What Christ the Redeemer is to Rio, Gomateshwara Bahubali is to Karnataka—a towering symbol of peace and non-violence. Carved atop Vindhyagiri hill, this 10th-century monolithic statue embodies Jain values of renunciation and harmony. A marvel of faith and sculpture, it stands as Karnataka’s timeless tribute to inner strength, forgiveness, and spiritual greatness.
Wonder – 5: Mysore Palace
Royal Wonder
Karnataka’s Royal richness, beyond beauty, it reflects progressive governance & cultural heritage
Mysore’s Amba Vilas Palace is among India’s most stunning royal residences, drawing crowds rivaling the Taj Mahal. Lit up, it resembles a golden dream. As the centerpiece of the grand Mysore Dasara, it symbolizes Karnataka’s rich heritage. Beyond beauty, it reflects Mysore royalty’s progressive governance and cultural leadership, making it a true royal wonder of Karnataka.
Wonder – 6: Jog Falls
Natural Wonder – Land
The Crowning Jewel of Karnataka’s Biodiversity-Rich Western Ghats and beauty of land
Plunging 830 feet, Jog Falls is Karnataka’s tallest and most majestic waterfall. Nestled in the lush Western Ghats, it roars to life during the monsoon, drawing thousands to its breathtaking beauty. As the crown jewel of Karnataka’s forested landscapes, Jog Falls represents the grandeur of the state’s terrestrial natural wonders and rich ecological heritage.
Wonder – 7: Netrani Island
Natural Wonder – Water
Heart-Shaped Island & the Scuba Diving Paradise of the Stunning Coastlines of Karnataka
Netrani, Karnataka’s heart-shaped island off Murudeshwara, is a symbol of love and marine wonder. With vibrant coral reefs and rare aquatic life, it’s India’s second-best scuba diving spot after the Andamans. Nestled along Karnataka’s 310 km coastline, Netrani showcases the state’s breathtaking undersea beauty and growing appeal as a coastal and adventure tourism destination.
