Tumkur, the seat of administration of Tumkur District, is a leading commercial, industrial and business center and a famous health resort in the Devarayanadurga Hills. It is situated 70 km north-west of Bangalore on the BangalorePune highway.
Tumkur was founded by the Kante Arasu of the Mysore royal family. It is a big market for vegetable oil, tobacco, chilies and coconuts in the district. Prominent industries are that of soap, tools and food processing.
Places of tourist include
Yediyur, Kunigal Farm, Pavagada Fort, Madhugiri, Marconahalli, Sira, Lakshmikanthaswamy Temple, Siddhaganga Kshetra (5 km), Turuvekere and Tumkur Jain Temple.
Nearest airport is at Bangalore. Tumkur Railway Station is on the Bangalore-Arasikere line.
National Highway 4 passes through Tumkur.