Bhatkal beach is one of the most beautiful beaches, located near the famous Murudeshwar temple in the Uttara Kannada region. As there are many historic and important temples near the Bhatkal beach, it attracts tourists from across the country, and they mainly come to visit the beach and its nearby temples on pilgrimage. The famous Jog falls is also close by, attracting visitors in droves.
The Significance of the Region
Bhatkal, located just 60 kilometers from Mangalore, has a rich past as it was an important port for trade during the reign of the Vijayanagar Kingdom, in the 16th century. There is also a beautiful fort behind the temple which is said to have been repaired by the erstwhile Sultan of Mysore, Tipu Sultan.
The beautiful Murudeshwar temple is a fine example of the architecture of the Vijayanagar Kings and attracts tourists from around the country, as a piece of the Atmalinga that was torn apart and scattered by Ravana in the Ramayana is believed to have landed here. As the temple is surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea, there is no dearth of sun and sand here in Bhatkal.
What’s Unique About the Beach
The religiously significant temples around Bhatkal give it a prominence that is uniquely its own. The Sholeshwar Temple is believed to have been built by the Chola kings in the 10th century to commemorate their victory of these areas. There are also two Jain temples dating back to the 16th century and there is also a church which has been built during the Portuguese rule of these areas. An old lighthouse dating back centuries also attracts many tourists.
The beach in Bhatkal is picturesque with sloping coconut trees, serene waters and crystal white sands. It is a trekker’s paradise as the rugged coastline offers plenty of trekking options to those who would like a stroll on the beach and those who would like a challenge, as the hills and hillocks along the rocky shores offer plenty of obstacles to even experienced trekkers and hikers.
It is an ideal spot for a beach vacation as there are many hotels and resorts dotting the hillside and the beachfront, offering accommodation to suit any budget. The rocky slopes of the Western Ghats that slope down steeply towards the Arabian Sea present nature at its rugged, raw and beautiful best.
How to Reach Bhatkal Beach
Bhatkal Beach lies at a distance of just 16 kilometers from the town of Bhatkal and about 60 kilometers from Mangalore. It is well connected by rail and road and so is very accessible. The nearest airport is in Mangalore about 75 kilometers away. Other places to visit nearby are the temples at Honnavur, Shirur, Hadavalli and Kumta and the Jog falls. It lies about 500 kilometers from Bangalore.
The time to visit Bhatkal Beach would be between August and March, avoiding the summers and the monsoon. Bhatkal is also famous for its fresh sea food and spicy curries and some sweets that are unique to this area. A visit to Karnataka would be incomplete without a visit to Bhatkal Beach, so take up the trip and soak in the sun!
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