Karnataka, the eighth largest state in the Indian Union, is a veritable treasure trove of tourist delights. Discover a dazzling array of the ancient sculpted temples , modern cities ,friendly people , scenic hill ranges, unexplored forest and endless beaches. Each spot in Karnataka has something unique to offers. The bazaars and shopping mails offer a fine selection of silks, sandal wood souvenirs, handicrafts and fragrant increase sticks. Karnataka is a spices country which produces the best cardamoms, fondly called the "Queen of Spices" and "Black Gold" or black pepper. Bangalore the capital of Karnataka is one of India's most attractive cities. Blessed with a salubrious climate and dotted with beautiful parks, avenues and buildings which have earned if the sobriquet "Garden City" it is truly cosmopolitan in nature and popular for horse racing , golf , tennis , luxury hotel and palate-tickling cuisine. Another city Mysore picturesquely located 750m above sea level, is at a distance of 139 km to the south west of Bangalore. Mysore is also famous for sandalwood carvings, silks, delicacies and golf courses. Mangalore is the most important port in this state. Karnataka's culinary culture revolves round three staple diets: rice , ragi and jowar. Rice is served with plain yellow dal or varan (lentil), papads, fat puris made from whole wheat flour and shrikhand (sweetened yoghurt with saffron). Karnataka has a rich tradition in silk sarees (Mysore & Chamundi silk), sandalwood, Ivory, brass and rosewood inlay, clay and wooden toys, wood carvings, bidriware and lambani jewellery are some other specialties.