1. Hampi: Historical Grandeur

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi offers an otherworldly landscape of ancient ruins and massive boulder formations. The Virupaksha Temple, Stone Chariot, and riverside ruins provide a dramatic backdrop that evokes a sense of timeless romance. Best time to visit: October to February. Photography permits may be required for certain areas.

2. Coorg: The Scotland of India

With its misty hills, coffee plantations, and verdant forests, Coorg creates a dreamy atmosphere for romantic shoots. Raja's Seat offers panoramic sunset views, while the Abbey Falls and coffee estates provide lush green backgrounds. Best time to visit: September to May, with October-November being ideal for misty backdrops.

3. Mysore Palace: Royal Splendor

For couples seeking regal backdrops, the magnificent Mysore Palace offers opulent architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. The palace is particularly magical when illuminated at night, though night photography usually requires special permission. Best time to visit: Year-round, but October to March offers pleasant weather.

4. Chikmagalur: Mountain Magic

Home to the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur offers breathtaking mountain vistas, rolling hills, and coffee estates. Mullayanagiri Peak, Karnataka's highest point, and Baba Budangiri range provide spectacular panoramic views. Best time to visit: September to May, with winter months offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

5. Gokarna: Secluded Beaches

Less crowded than Goa, Gokarna's pristine beaches like Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, and Paradise Beach offer tranquil settings for romantic seaside shoots. The distinctive shapes of these beaches make for unique compositions. Best time to visit: October to March for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

6. Nandi Hills: Sunrise Paradise

Just an hour from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is famous for its breathtaking sunrise views with clouds floating below the summit. The ancient Nandi Temple, colonial-era Nehru House, and lush greenery provide diverse settings. Best time to visit: Year-round, but the cooler months (October-March) are more comfortable.

7. Jog Falls: Majestic Waterfalls

One of India's highest waterfalls, Jog Falls creates a spectacular backdrop as water plunges 830 feet in four distinct cascades. The surrounding lush landscape adds to the romantic atmosphere. Best time to visit: Monsoon season (July to September) for maximum water flow, though accessibility may be challenging.

8. Badami: Cave Temples and Red Sandstone

Known for its cave temples carved from red sandstone, Badami offers unique architectural backgrounds and the beautiful Agastya Lake. The warm tones of the sandstone create striking contrast with traditional wedding attire. Best time to visit: October to March.

9. Sakleshpur: Train Tracks and Green Valleys

Famous for the Sakleshpur-Subramanya railway track with its numerous bridges and tunnels winding through the Western Ghats, this hill station offers verdant landscapes and colonial architecture. Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon seasons for lush greenery (June to December).

10. Karwar: Pristine Coastline

Offering uncrowded beaches and the tranquil Kali River backwaters, Karwar is perfect for peaceful coastal shoots. Devbagh Beach and the Naval Museum area provide varied settings. Best time to visit: October to March.

11. BR Hills: Wildlife and Wilderness

For nature-loving couples, BR Hills offers forest trails, wildlife sightings, and indigenous tribal influences. The ancient Biligiriranga Temple sits atop the hills offering panoramic views. Best time to visit: October to May.

12. Belur-Halebidu: Architectural Marvels

These twin towns feature exquisitely carved Hoysala temples with intricate sculptures depicting stories from Hindu mythology. The Chennakesava Temple (Belur) and Hoysaleshwara Temple (Halebidu) offer stunning architectural backgrounds. Best time to visit: Year-round, though October to March offers pleasant weather.

13. Murudeshwar: Seaside Temple

Home to the world's second-tallest Shiva statue overlooking the Arabian Sea, Murudeshwar offers unique religious architecture with a coastal setting. The temple tower and statue against the endless ocean make for dramatic compositions. Best time to visit: October to March.

Tips for Location Shoots in Karnataka

• Always check for photography permits, especially at heritage sites
• Avoid monsoon season (June-September) for outdoor shoots in most locations
• Book accommodations in advance during peak tourist seasons
• Consider hiring local guides who know hidden spots
• Pack appropriately for varying climates across different regions