Honnavar is a coastal town located in the Uttara Karnataka district of Karnataka, India. It is one of those places where you can experience natural beauty, breath-taking landscapes, rich cultural history and adventure activities making it one of the best tourist destinations for tourist enthusiasts. If you are someone who is looking to visit some offbeat place and avoid the crowd, then don’t look back. Honnavar is the perfect holiday destination for you. In this article, we are going to explain in detail about Honnavar and things to do over there.
How to Reach
By Air: You can reach Honnavar through Mangalore International Airport which is 180 km far from Honnavar. From there, you can either hire a cab or board a bus to reach Honnavar.
By Train: Honnavar railway station is well connected to all major cities in India such as Mumbai, Goa and Bengaluru.
By Road: Honnavar is adjacent to National Highway 66 which is well connected to major cities in India. There are multiple state-run buses and private buses throughout the day. You can also drive your own vehicle easily here.
Places to Visit in Honnavar
Eco Beach
Eco Beach is one of the most serene and calm atmospheric beaches in India. This beach is located just 80km from the Murudeshwara Temple. It’s also one of the ‘Blue Flag’ certified beaches in India. Being a family-friendly beach, this 5 km long Eco Beach is one of the favourite tourist destinations for couples and children. You can simply relax here enjoying the beautiful sunset.
Mangrove Forests
Mangrove Forests are certainly one of the hidden gems here. These forests are a unique ecosystem worth exploring and definitely worth your time. If you are someone who is interested in birdwatching or photography, then you will absolutely love the time you spend here.
Honnavar Backwaters
Honnavar Backwater is famous for its natural eco-beauty and serene environment. It is formed due to the convergence of the Sharavathi River with the Arabian Sea and is now home to a different and unique ecosystem of plants and animals. You can rent a boat here and explore the diverse nature of these backwaters. If you are someone who wants to spend some time in peace and relaxing then backwaters are the perfect spot for you.
Apsarakonda Waterfalls
The most popular and tourist-favourite spot in Honnavar is the Apsarakonda waterfalls. It is located just 7 km from the Honnavar town. As the meaning of the name Apsarakonda suggests, this place is famous for its lake and waterfalls. You will definitely enjoy the beautiful scenery and lush greenery surrounding the waterfalls here.
If you are a nature lover, there is a wonderful garden and viewpoint nearby to the waterfalls. The sound of the birds chirping and the rushing waterfalls sound makes it more pleasant for you. Also, if you are someone who loves to explore, then don’t miss the Pandavas caves nearby.
Sri Karikana Parameshwari Temple
This temple is located on the top of the hill. Dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Shri Karikaan Parameshwari, the garbhagudi of this temple is carved from a single rock. The view from here of the Arabian Sea and surrounding nature is so peaceful and relaxing. Please note that visitors are not allowed after sunset due to the danger of tigers roaming around this place.
Ram Theertham
Ram Theerthan is one of the most sacred places for Hindus. According to the local people, Lord Ram during his exile period stayed here for a few days. There is a small temple and a pond here. You can simply sit here and meditate peacefully.
Jog Falls
Jog Falls is famous for being the second most plunge waterfall in India. It is located 60 km from Honnavar town. If you want to witness these waterfalls in its full glory, then visit in the Monsoon season. View from here will make you hold your breath due to the enormous size of the fall. Although there are four viewing points here, the fourth one is the best to enjoy the waterfall.
Best time to visit
Due to its being a coastal town, Honnavar can be hot and humid during the summer. Even in monsoons, you can experience setbacks to your trekking plans or backwater rides if there is heavy rainfall. Winter, though, is a perfect season to visit Honnavar. Especially from October to February, this town will be in its full glory for the visitors.
Things to Experience
Backwater Boat Ride
You cannot visit Honnavar without experiencing the magical backwaters boat ride. You can rent a boat here for 1000 rs and they will take you to every corner of the backwaters here including the mangrove forests. This place is so secluded and beautiful that you can experience utmost peace at this place. Without a doubt, this boat ride will be an unforgettable experience in your life.
Nature Walks and Birdwatching
Famous for its rich biodiversity, you can simply take a walk here and get immersed in its breathtaking lush green environment. So many rare bird species can be found here. This place is an absolute treat for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Cultural and Religious Tours
With so many temples around here, you will be exposed to its rich cultural history dating back several decades. You will be amazed by not only the mythological prominence here but also the architectural beauty.
Trekking and Adventure
If you are someone who loves trekking and adventure, then there is no better place than Apsarakonda waterfalls. Also, it being an underrated place adds to your advantage. Due to it’s a bit rough terrain, you can absolutely have the time of your life trekking here.
Places to visit around Honnavar
Located in Uttara Karnataka district, close to Shimoga, Mangalore and Goa, Honnavar has many other attractions within 50-60 km. Some of the must visit places to visit are
- Murudeshwar
- Gokarna
- Idagunji Mahaganapathi Temple
- Sirsi
- kollur
Conclusion
That’s it, folks. It doesn’t matter if you are an adventure freak, nature lover or religious person, Honnavar has something to offer to everyone. Visit this place and enjoy the solitude and cultural richness it offers. Hope we have covered everything about Honnavar. If you have any queries, please do comment below in the comment section. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
