THEME: 3.5/5
RESEARCH: 2.5/5
WRITING STYLE: 3/5
ENTERTAINMENT: 3/5
GENRE & THEME: Travel, India, Karnataka
There is something about travel books that makes you want to pack your bags and set off on an adventure of your own. The allure of discovery, the thrill of new experiences, and the excitement of learning about places and cultures have always drawn me to travel-themed books.
In my most recent literary-themed adventure, I picked up Karnataka Kaleidoscope by Anuj Tikku—a captivating account of the author’s sojourns across the vibrant state of Karnataka.
In this book, Anuj explores the many wonders that is the state of Karnataka. Through its many cities, he discovers the state’s stunning landscapes, uncovers this land full of beauty, its wonderful people, and rich, distinctive culture.
What is the book all about?
The book reads like a travel journal—a collection of vivid diary-like articles chronicling the author’s month-long journey through Karnataka, as he leisurely explores and discovers its celebrated destinations, including Hampi, Mysuru, Coorg, Chikmagalur, and more.
The journey
The journey begins in Dehradun, from where Anuj makes his way to Hubli. From there, he travels to Hospet and Hampi, exploring the ancient ruins of the Vijayanagara kingdom, before moving on to experience the religious grandeur and cultural vibrancy of Mysuru. His travels then lead him to the tranquil coffee-scented hills of Coorg and finally to the majestic, mist-covered landscapes of Chikamagalur.
Who can read?
The writing is simple and accessible, making it an easy pick for beginner-level readers. However, seasoned or voracious readers might find the content too basic, as it largely caters to those just starting out with travel literature.
A full spectrum of experiences
What I loved most about the book is the sheer variety of experiences Anuj shares. From receiving the blessings of Laxmi, the temple elephant, to relishing hot, spicy curries; from engaging in friendly banter with Kannada ladies to savouring local delicacies served on banana leaves—Anuj truly makes the most of his travels.
Whether it’s enjoying the plush comforts of a five-star hotel or grabbing a meal at a roadside dhaba, he embraces it all with equal enthusiasm, immersing himself in the essence of each place. His leisurely walks through the streets allow him to breathe in the city’s atmosphere and soak up its rich local culture, making his journey all the more authentic.
The text is brought to life by many engaging photographs—capturing his travels, iconic monuments, memorable experiences, the food he savoured, and the people he met along the way. These visuals give the book a personal and intimate touch, making it far more enjoyable to read.
In addition, the book features detailed itineraries for major cities, complete with lists of key attractions, their religious and cultural significance, suggested visiting hours, and distances from the city centre. This section, however, felt somewhat impersonal and a bit forced, and was the only part I didn’t particularly enjoy.
Overall, Karnataka Kaleidoscope is a short and charming account of the author’s travels through Karnataka. That said, its content remains fairly basic, making it better suited for casual readers than for those seeking depth or detail.
Cannot wait to read it? Buy your copy of Karnataka Kaleidoscope using the link below.
