Northern Karnataka, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Northern Karnataka, India? If you're planning to go to Northern Karnataka, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Northern Karnataka, India

Based on the climate and weather in Northern Karnataka, India, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Northern Karnataka, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Northern Karnataka, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Northern Karnataka, India by month

January

Traveling to Northern Karnataka in January, you will notice that it is constantly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you visit Northern Karnataka during February, you may find that it is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March is unbearably hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

April

April in Northern Karnataka is unbearably hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Northern Karnataka is sizzling. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (high 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in Northern Karnataka can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

July

If you vacation in Northern Karnataka during July, you may find that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to find the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you go to Northern Karnataka in August, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you go to Northern Karnataka in September, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

If you vacation in Northern Karnataka during October, you might see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

November

If you vacation in Northern Karnataka during November, you might find that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

December

If you visit Northern Karnataka during December, you may find that it is pretty consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern Karnataka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

What to do in Northern Karnataka, India

Northern Karnataka is a treasure trove of ancient temples, historical monuments, scenic natural beauty, and vibrant culture. This region is blessed with numerous tourist attractions that offer a thrilling and memorable experience. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Northern Karnataka, India.

1. Hampi – This world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Bellary district and was once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. The magnificent ruins of Hampi feature a plethora of ancient temples, palaces, and basements that are reminiscent of the classical Dravidian architecture.

2. Badami – This ancient architectural wonder of Badami is situated in the Bagalkot district, known for its ancient rock-cut caves, exquisite temples, and breathtaking natural beauty. The Chalukyan temples of Badami feature stunning sculptures and carvings that are a treat to the eyes.

3. Bijapur – Also known as Vijapura, Bijapur is a city located in the Bijapur district and is home to some of the most splendid historical monuments of the Deccan plateau. The famous Gol Gumbaz, Jumma Masjid, and Ibrahim Rouza are some of the must-visit attractions in Bijapur.

4. Aihole – This small town located in the Bagalkot district is known for its rich heritage and historical monuments. Aihole is famous for its 125 rock-cut temples built between the 4th and 5th centuries.

5. Pattadakal – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pattadakal, is a small village located in the Bagalkot district known for its magnificent temples built in the Chalukyan style. The temples of Pattadakal are a fusion of South and North Indian styles of temple architecture.

6. Gokarna – This picturesque coastal town in the Uttara Kannada district is known for its pristine beaches, ancient temples, and peaceful environment. The Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna Beach, and Om Beach are some of the most popular attractions in Gokarna.

7. Dandeli – This small town in Uttara Kannada is known for its vibrant wildlife and adventure activities. The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of exotic animals like tigers, elephants, leopards, and black panthers.

In conclusion, Northern Karnataka is a land that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. It offers a perfect blend of ancient heritage sites, scenic landscapes, and thrilling adventure activities, making it a must-visit destination for all types of travelers.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Wasilla, Alaska, United States of America, Lloret de Mar, Spain, Hotchkiss, Colorado, United States of America, Frankenmuth, Michigan, United States of America, Amador City, California, United States of America, Poompuhar, India, Broward County, Florida, United States of America, Georgian Bay Islands National Park, Canada, Interlochen, Michigan, United States of America, Ebbw Vale, Wales, United Kingdom, and Hastings, England, United Kingdom.