Karnataka is one of India's most urbanised states, with major cities serving as centres of technology, education, industry, commerce and culture. Bengaluru is the state's largest city by a considerable margin, followed by important urban centres such as Hubballi–Dharwad, Mysuru, Belagavi and Kalaburagi.
The following table lists 11 major cities in Karnataka using the population figures provided for 2011.
List of the Largest Cities in Karnataka
| Rank | City | District | Population (2011) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bengaluru | Bengaluru Urban | 10,456,000 |
| 2 | Hubballi–Dharwad | Dharwad | 943,857 |
| 3 | Mysuru | Mysuru | 920,550 |
| 4 | Belagavi | Belagavi | 610,350 |
| 5 | Kalaburagi | Kalaburagi | 543,147 |
| 6 | Mangaluru | Dakshina Kannada | 484,785 |
| 7 | Davanagere | Davanagere | 435,128 |
| 8 | Ballari | Ballari | 409,444 |
| 9 | Vijayapura (formerly Bijapur) | Vijayapura | 330,143 |
| 10 | Shivamogga (formerly Shimoga) | Shivamogga | 322,650 |
| 11 | Tumakuru (formerly Tumkur) | Tumakuru | 305,821 |
Overview of Major Cities
1. Bengaluru
Bengaluru is the capital of Karnataka and a major centre for information technology, biotechnology, startups, higher education and research. Its technology industry has earned it the reputation of India's Silicon Valley.
2. Hubballi–Dharwad
Hubballi–Dharwad is a major urban centre in northern Karnataka. The twin cities are important for trade, education, transport and commercial activity.
3. Mysuru
Mysuru is famous for its royal heritage, Mysore Palace, cultural traditions, tourism and educational institutions. It is also known for the annual Mysuru Dasara celebrations.
4. Belagavi
Belagavi is an important city in northwestern Karnataka, with strong industrial, commercial and educational connections. Its location near the Maharashtra and Goa borders makes it a significant regional centre.
5. Kalaburagi
Kalaburagi is a major city in the Kalyana Karnataka region. It is known for its historical monuments, educational institutions and regional economic importance.
6. Mangaluru
Mangaluru is a coastal city and a major port centre in Karnataka. It is known for maritime trade, education, healthcare, banking and the cultural traditions of the coastal region.
7. Davanagere
Davanagere is an important commercial and educational centre in central Karnataka. It is also widely associated with its textile history and distinctive local food culture.
8. Ballari
Ballari is an important city in the northeastern part of Karnataka, historically associated with mining, industry and trade. The wider region is also known for its historical and archaeological heritage.
9. Vijayapura
Vijayapura is renowned for its Adil Shahi architectural heritage, particularly Gol Gumbaz. The city is an important historical and cultural destination in northern Karnataka.
10. Shivamogga
Shivamogga is a gateway to the Malnad region and the Western Ghats. It is associated with agriculture, forests, waterfalls and biodiversity.
11. Tumakuru
Tumakuru is an important industrial, educational and agricultural centre located northwest of Bengaluru. Its proximity to the state capital has contributed to its economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the largest city in Karnataka by population?
Bengaluru is the largest city in Karnataka in the supplied list.
2. Which is the second-largest city in Karnataka in this table?
Hubballi–Dharwad ranks second, with a supplied population of 943,857.
3. Which coastal city appears in the list?
Mangaluru, located in Dakshina Kannada district, is the coastal city included in the table.
4. What year do these population figures represent?
The figures are presented as 2011 population data, as supplied in the original table.
5. Are these current population rankings?
No. These rankings use the supplied 2011 figures and should not be interpreted as current population estimates or as a definitive ranking under every census definition.
