Capital City Bengaluru
Karnataka, a state steeped in natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical grandeur, is often referred to by various names that reflect its diverse heritage. In ancient times, it was known as Kuntala Desha and Karnaata, names mentioned in early Sanskrit and Kannada literature. These names signify the region’s early existence as a prosperous and powerful land. Karnataka is also fondly called the Land of Sandalwood, due to its fragrant forests and Mysore’s legacy of sandalwood production. It has earned the title Cradle of Stone Architecture, being home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hampi, Pattadakal, and Badami, which showcase stunning temple architecture from the Chalukya, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara empires. The Silicon Valley of India is another modern name for Karnataka, especially for its capital city Bengaluru, which is known globally as a hub for IT innovation and startups.
