The enchanting perfume of sandal and agarbathis; the aroma of fresh, roasted coffee beans, the heady fragrance of the "Mysore Mallige" and a thousand roses blossoming... Yes, Karnataka is a land of fragrance. A land that has all the ingredients of a great holiday. A relaxed length of the Arabian Sea coastline, the majestic rocks of the Deccan, thick, lush tropical forests, an unimaginable variety of trees, plants, flowers, animals and birds. And a sense of history and culture that is all pervasive. You can take an elephant ride, hike across an excitingly rugged terrain, swim and surf in the green blue sea, or wander through the forts and ruins, visit important pilgrim centers or watch the monsoon rains transform the land.

Yes, Karnataka is a state of charming contrasts, the modern blending harmoniously with the old. The hustle bustle of industries nestling comfortably with the easygoing, relaxed pace of life. It also has some of the most magnificent monuments, temples, palaces and beaches in the country. You can shop for sandalwood, silk and spices. You can take home enchanting handicrafts, beautifully designed ethnic jewelry in gold and silver, eat food you've never tasted before, meet people for whom hospitality is a lifestyle.

Warm and friendly, the people of Karnataka know just how to put the tourist at ease. Ask them for directions and chances are they'll take you to your destination. They are proud of their heritage - (who wouldn't with such a glorious, rich and varied history?) - and willing to share it with those not fortunate enough to live in their state. A holiday in Karnataka is culturally enriching. The colorful folk dances and art forms, the age-old traditions and rituals, the literature and the music. Yes, there's so much to see - and feel - and experience in Karnataka. Come, you'll be pleasantly surprised.