Offbeat Alert: Here's Why Honnavar In Karnataka Should Be Your Next Quiet Getaway
About Honnavar
This port town in coastal Karnataka has beautiful landscapes that make it one of the top offbeat places to visit in India. It hosted foreign traders from the Arab world and countries such as Portugal, England and the Netherlands in its heyday. Here's why you should visit it.
It Has A Mesmerising Waterfall
The Apsarakonda Waterfall (10 metres high) is a tranquil getaway as it is surrounded by lush landscapes and ancient caves where you can meditate and contemplate quietly. The crystal-clear pool at its base is perfect for a swim.
A Hanging Bridge Is Its Most Famous Landmark
Built over the Sharavathi River, the views from this hanging bridge are spectacular, particularly in the monsoon and winter seasons. Apart from walking across the bridge, visitors can enjoy nature walks and photography in the surrounding areas.
The Kayaking Experience Is Like None Other
Embark on a kayaking experience on the Sharavathi River or get on a boat to glide through the backwaters. This experience is perfect for everyone, from couples to those on a holiday with family and friends.
The Beaches Are Pristine
Honnavar is home to three beaches. Eco Beach is the most popular one with kids' play areas and cabana-style umbrellas. A little to the north is Kasarkod Beach, an extension of Eco Beach. Further to the south, you can visit Apsarakonda Beach, which is known for its beautiful sunsets.
It Has Many Beautiful Temples
The Idagunji Maha Ganapathi Temple is a popular pilgrimage spot for devotees of Lord Ganesha, while the Kodlamane Maha Vishnu Temple is known for its intricate architecture. The Karikaana Parameshwari Ammanavara Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali.
Discover Slices Of History
Check out the Colonel Pillar, a 30-metre-high column built by the British in 1845 in memory of Colonel Hill. Also, take a boat ride to the Basavaraj Durga Fort, which was constructed during Vijayanagar rule in 1590.
The Mangrove Boardwalk Is Amazing
This one-of-a-kind experience consists of a wooden pathway that winds its way through the mangroves of the Sharavathi River. At around 1.5 kilometres, there are display boards on the fauna and flora of the area, which you can also observe in person.
The Fish Market Is A Spectacle
Visit the bustling Honnavar Fish Market to see seafood being bought, sold and bargained over. If you want a unique experience, request the fisherfolk for permission to come aboard their boats and see up close how they earn their livelihoods.
How To Reach Honnavar
Udupi (126 kilometres) and Mangaluru (180 kilometres) are the nearest cities to Honnavar. There are buses, taxies and trains available from these places, as well as Bengaluru (476 kilometres), that take visitors to the port town.
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