Located at the foothills of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Western Ghats, Belgaum or Belagavi, in Karnataka, boasts pristine natural beauty accentuated by historical charm. At the heart of the city lies the oval-shaped Belgaum Fort that boasts grand ramparts and huge bastions, which leave one in awe of the grandeur of the Ratta dynasty (875-1250 CE), under which it was built. The fort complex houses shrines, mosques and Jain temples, all of which are a legacy bequeathed by the rulers, who made it their seat. Several picturesque waterfalls dot the city's landscape and serve as ideal picnic spots for tourists.

For adventure enthusiasts, opportunities of trekking and river rafting are available aplenty. You can tread on splendid trails that wind through scenic waterfalls or head to Dandeli, on the banks of River Kali, which is an ideal site for rafting. Belgaum has a glorious heritage and lies at the confluence of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Goa. It is also known as Malenadu or Rain Country and the vegetation here is verdant throughout the year. What makes its more accessible is its location, exactly midway between Mumbai and Bangalore.