Strewn with many hidden gems for discerning travellers, Karnataka never fails to allure tourists. Explore the hidden places in Karnataka and discover some of the unique spots nestled in the lap of nature. These places are peaceful abodes that immerse you in serenity and capture your heart with their beauty.
- Maravanthe: Maravanthe is nature’s marvel in Coastal Karnataka, beautifully located between the Arabian Sea on one side and the Souparnika River on the other. Maravanthe, a village in Byndoor taluk, Udupi district is known for its pristine beach. It assumes the name ‘Virgin Beach’ owing to the white sand stretching miles along the coast. The distance between Maravanthe and Mangalore is 110 KM.
2) Haladi Scenery Bridge: The Haladi scenery bridge is located amidst tranquil backwaters, paddy fields and coconut trees. This tall and narrow bridge amidst the surrounding lush greenery is one of Karnataka’s most beautiful hidden places. It is a picturesque spot ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Haladi or Halady village is in the Kundapura taluk, Udupi district of coastal Karnataka. The village lies 25 KM from Kundapura, 40 KM from Udupi and 95 KM from Mangalore. It is pleasant to visit this bridge in the evenings.
3) Varanga Kere Basadi: Varanga Kere Basadi, or Kere Basadi, is a Jain temple situated in a tranquil environment and is one of the hidden places in Karnataka. This peaceful abode is uniquely located in the middle of a lake and offers breathtaking views. Furthermore, the temple’s reflection on the placid waters, especially during sunset or sunrise, is purely magical. This twelfth-century temple was built in the Chaturmukha style and has four entrances. The breathtaking surroundings undoubtedly captivate the hearts of nature lovers. Varanga Kere Basadi, 25 KM from Karkala, is in the Udupi district of Karnataka. It is about 40 KM from Udupi and 76 KM from Mangalore. One has to take a boat to reach the temple.
4) Mirjan Fort: The Mirjan Fort’s ruins amidst lush greenery are a breathtaking sight. Located on the Aghanashini River, whose mouth is just 12 KM from the Mirjan village, this fort is a must-visit. The fort is a wonderful blend of heritage and nature, attracting history buffs and nature lovers alike. Hence, the Mirjan Fort is also one of the unique hidden places in Karnataka. The Mirjan Fort lies about 21 KM from Gokarna, a prominent pilgrimage centre in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka.
5) St. Mary’s Island: St. Mary’s Island, a cluster of four small islands in the Arabian Sea, is a must-visit. Known for its basaltic rock formations, crystal clear waters and beaches, this is one of the hidden places in Karnataka. The place undoubtedly interests those seeking serenity amidst nature. The sunset here is mesmerising. Also known as Thonsepar, St. Mary’s Island lies off the coast of Malpe in the Udupi district of Karnataka. One must undertake a boat ride from Malpe Beach to reach the island. St. Mary’s Island is 65 KM from Mangalore and 10.9 KM from Udupi.
6) Yana rocks and caves: Yana is well known for its colossal limestone rock outcrops. Tourists can reach this unique rock formation by trekking around 2 km through dense forests and climbing many steps. The Yana caves have an air of mystery about them and draw nature and adventure lovers alike. Yana is located in the Katgal forest range and forms part of the Malenadu region of the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is around 49 km from Gokarna, a pilgrimage town in Karnataka. Yana is undoubtedly one of the hidden places in Karnataka.
7) Nathageri Hanging Bridge: Nathageri Hanging Bridge is a scenic bridge that stretches across the waters with surrounding coconut trees. The lush greenery invites nature lovers to spend some quiet time in its serene surroundings. Watching the local boats glide by from the bridge is a picturesque sight. The hanging bridge is located in Nathageri village, 15 KM from Honnavara, Karnataka. It is undoubtedly one of the hidden places in Karnataka, which still hasn’t caught the sight of travellers.
8) Keshavanatheshwara temple, Moodgal: The sanctum sanctorum of the Keshavanatheshwara temple, Moodgal, is set inside a natural cave with water. The place’s aura is truly calming, with the sound of the flowing water and that of nature. Pilgrims will have to wade through the waters to seek the Lord’s darshan. This Shiva temple is open from 6 AM to 7 PM daily. The lush green environs attract nature lovers, adventure seekers, and pilgrims alike. The unique Keshavanatheshwara temple is around 70 km from Udupi.
9) Talakaveri: Tala Kaveri in Coorg district is the place where the River Kaveri originated. Set in natural surroundings, it is flocked by pilgrims and nature lovers alike. It is located on the Brahmagiri Hills and is utterly scenic, with views of the undulating hills and surrounding valleys. Talakaveri is around 44 KM from Madikeri, Coorg. The nearby Bhagamandala temple, which is around 8 km from Talakaveri, is also a must-visit.
10) Varahi Backwaters: Do not forget to include Varahi Backwaters in your itinerary during your visit to Agumbe. Located 45 km from Agumbe, the Varahi Backwaters is a serene scenic spot and a hidden gem of Karnataka. Sunsets in the Varahi Backwaters are stunning.
To conclude, these hidden gems in Karnataka will undoubtedly leave imprints of your travel in your heart.
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