It can be the one state in India where gold is found. It really is the land of silk and sandal, of espresso and cardamom, with the 17m statue of Jain Saint Gomateshwara and in the enchaning sculptural prosperity of Belur and Halebid from the historical ruins of Hampi and monuments of Bijapur. To the composite way of life of India, the contribution of Karnataka, is in no way inferior to that of another region of India. Actually, in lots of fields, Karnataka's contribution far exceeds that of your other areas individually. This is specifically so within the fields of are, new music, religion, and philosophy.

Karnataka possesses a rich cultural heritage. The folks theatre has an historical and rich tradition, the two principal forms becoming Yakshagana plus the puppet theatre. 'Yakshagana' is akin to Kathakali of Kerala in the selection of its elaborate costumes and vigorous dancing. 'Bhootada Kunita' (Dance from the Divine Cult), 'Nagamandala' as well as the demon dance are some quaint rituals prevalent only in Dakshina Kannada coastal region.

Sravanabelagola, close to Mysore, has a large 1,000-yr-old stone statue of Bahubali, the Jain saint. Massive monolithic Jain statues are peculiar towards the Kannada culture.