From yoga schools and intriguing ruins to national parks that punch above their weight, this southern Indian state’s austere appearance belies an altogether exciting interior.

Explore the ever-expanding restaurant scene in Bangalore, a city that’s also known for its craft beer micro-breweries, and shop till you drop while hunting for bargains along the busy MG Road.

Don your camouflage and head out for a thrilling ride into Bandipur and Nagarahole National Parks for your chance to spot herds of Asiatic elephants and elusive leopards. And if you’re worried about roughing it out in the wild, there are some stellar luxury properties near the parks to cater to your creature comforts.

In Chikmagalur and Coorg, wake up and smell the coffee. The coffee plantations of this green belt are famous for their high quality beans. While in Coorg, remember to save some space in your stomach for the delectable Coorgi cuisine, in which pork, jungle mangoes and jackfruit vie for top flavour. Remember also to keep an eye toward the sky for this region is famous for its avian visitors throughout the year. The Bhadra Tiger Reserve is also known for its bird life, particularly its river tern population. Seek out snakes in Agumbe, a high-altitude village that’s surrounded by the magnificent Western Ghats; in the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary in Hampi you'll most likely spot a living version of Baloo, making you want to break into the chorus of Bare Necessities!

Hampi is also home to the awe-inspiring ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that you can cycle or coracle around.

In Mysore, wend your way through the chaotic bazaar, haggling for everything from incense to spices, and marvel at the sheer magnificence of the Indo-Saracenic style Mysore Palace.

For a detour off the beaten track, Kurumgad Island offers the promise of isolation; Kodi Bengre and Mulki also offer great surfing. For more adventure, head over to Badami where the red sandstone cliffs make for some world-class bouldering sites.