The Points South Point of View – The countryside of Karnataka contains many historical gems, which you can still enjoy as an explorer without the crowds. The contrast between rural Karnataka and the vibrant capital of Bangalore is stark – within minutes of leaving the city you enter a land with red earth and vast boulders. Bullock carts carrying loads of sugar cane trundle along the rural roads. The interior was the seat of several dynasties, whose cities now lie in ruins. Hampi the capital of the Vijayanagar empire in the 14th Century, being the best example. The exquisite temples at Belur and Halebid remain fine examples of the Hoysala empire. They are situated between Hampi and Mysore.
 | Evolve Back, Hampi - Built in the style of the Vijaynagara empire to reflect the architecture of the ancient kingdom of Hampi, now a UNESCO world heritage site. The superbly designed property, the latest by the renowned Evolve Back group, sits in thirty acres of countryside, close to Hampi. The thirty-six spacious rooms are beautifully designed, and furnished in a traditional style with vast bathrooms. Two restaurants and two pools, one for children. |
 | Evolve Back, Kabini - Evolve Back is located on the banks of the river Kabini, built in a traditional local style. There is a resident naturalist, who will guide you round some of the three hundred species of birds recorded in the park, and in summer many elephants congregate at the dam as the waters recede. Clients have been fortunate to see leopards and tigers here. Jeep safaris and boat safaris are taken twice a day from the resort. Evolve Back is one of my favourite properties in South India, well run and set in a superb location. |
 | The Serai, Kabini - The Serai is located overlooking the Kabini river, within fifteen minutes' drive of the park. There is a resident naturalist, and safaris are taken by boat and jeep. Everyone now goes to Jungle Lodge, five minutes from Serai - the jungle safaris are arranged from here. The property has an open plan restaurant, a large pool and good spa. Walks can be taken with their naturalist to the surrounding paddy fields for bird watching. |
