Ballari district is located in the southern part of India, bordered by the districts of Raichur to the north, Koppal to the west, Chitradurga to the south-west, and Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh to the east.

Ballari has a long and significant history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic period. It was ruled by various dynasties, including the Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Empire, and the princely state of Mysore. The district played a crucial role in the history of the Vijayanagara Empire and witnessed many battles during that era.