The state of Karnataka is absolutely rich in natural beauty. A great number of natural beauty is in Karnataka but there are some lesser known places to discover in karnataka. While many of the famous places are favorite among visitors, there are some hidden places in karnataka to be explored.
There are lots of places to visit in karnataka and each one is filled with the wonderment of beaches, backwaters, greenery and unique of life.
Here are 5 hidden places in Karnataka that are surely worth it to visit.
1. Floating Chapel, Shettihalli
This Floating church is also known as the Shettihalli Rosary Church and one of the less explored places in Hassan district of Karnataka state. It looks hauntingly beautiful with the remnants of its architectural beauty. It was built by the French missionaries in the 19th century. One can take a great view of this place on a boat and float through the chapel that is partially immersed in water. The church looks completely different in the summer and the monsoons.
Location: On the side of Hemavathi River in the town of Shettihalli in southern Karnataka
The Shettihalli Rosary Church – Highlights
- Address: Shettihalli, Hassan, Karnataka
- Distance from Bangalore – 205 km
- Timing: 6 AM to 7 PM
- Best time to visit – July to October
How to Reach Shettihalli Church
By Road
Shettihalli is about 200km from Bangalore and is well connected by state and private bus services. You can also drive down yourself. The Church is a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
By Rail
A mere 22km away, the Hassan railway station is the closest railway station to the Church. From here you can take a bus or cab to the church.
By Air
The Mysore Airport is 131km from the Church. From here you can hire a taxi or drive down to the Church.
2. Hoysaleswara Temple, Hassan District
The Hoysaleswara temple which is also known as the Halebidu temple is a wonder that blows you away with its beautiful architecture. A beautiful representation of the Hoysala architecture, this place is one hidden place in Karnataka which is worth exploring. This 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva still speaks silent tales of its glorious past.
Location: Halebidu, a town in the state of Karnataka
The Hoysaleswara Temple – Highlights
- Address: Hoysaleswara Temple, Hassan, Karnataka
- Distance from Bangalore – 210 km
- Timing: 6.30 AM to 9 PM
- Best time to visit – March to May
How to Reach Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
By Road
You can also reach Halebidu from banaglore, a prominent city in south India. It is at a distance of 210 km and takes 3 hours 45 minutes.
By Rail
The nearest railhead to Halebidu is Hassan which is 30 km away. Other prominent railway stations are Mysore and Mangalore which are well-connected to the rest of India.
By Air
The nearest airport is Hubki Airport which is about 130 km away from Halebidu and you can take or bus to Hoysaleswara temple, Halebidu.
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3. Agumbe
Agumbe is a village located in the Shimoga district. It is situated in the Malenadu region of the Westen Ghat Mountain range and is known for its high rainfall, This gorgeous place is often referred to as the ‘Cherrapunji of South India’.It has the perfect soothing surroundings to relax and rejuvenate. Agumbe is surrounded by lush greenery, waterfalls, and a splendid view. If you enjoy being in nature, you will fall in love with this place.
Location: In the Shimoga district of central Karnataka
The Agumbe – Highlights
- Address: Agumbe , Shimoga, Karnataka
- Distance from Mangaluru– 100km
- Timing: 8AM to 6PM
- Best time to visit – October to February
How to Reach Agumbe
By Road
Agumbe is about 100km from Mangaluru and Agumbe is near the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and is accessible by road around 24 Kms from Shringeri.
By Rail
Shimoga, 90 km away and Udupi, 55 km away are the nearest railway stations to Agumbe.
By Air
Mangaluru Airport is the Nearest, 100km away. Then you can go by cab or bus service to the most beautiful place.
4. Honnemaradu, Shimoga District
Honnemaradu is a small village located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. it is a popular destination for adventure activities like hiking, canoeing, kayaking, swimming in backwaters, camping, and bonfire. It is a perfect destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts alike Honnemaradu is also known for its bird watcher’s paradise and is home to a variety of bird species.
Location: Situated on the backwaters of River Sharavathi
The Honnemaradu – Highlights
- Address: Near Sagar town of Shimoga district Honnemaradu
- Distance from Mangaluru– 227km
- Timing: 6 AM to 5 PM
- Best time to visit – August to January
How to Reach Honnemaradu
By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore which is nearly 200 km from Honnemaradu. One needs to take a train or go by road to reach this gorgeous adventure destination.
By Rail
There are trains from Bangalore and Mysore to reach Shimoga with the nearest station Talaguppa. After which one has to go by road which is approximately 10-12 km. Local jeeps and auto-rickshaws are available.
By Road
The best way to reach Honnemaradu is via road. The village is well connected with Bangalore and Mysore. Honnemaradu is about 400 km from Bangalore.
5. Forest Shrines, Gerusoppa
Gerusoppa is a small town located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka.The Gerusoppa shrines are among the most exquisite hidden places in Karnataka.The walk through thick forests to unravel this hidden haven is nothing short of an adventure. This complex was built by Queen Chennabhairadevi and once it had over 100 shrines. The temple was built during the reign of the Saluva dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire and is known for its unique architecture. If you’re looking for a combination of spirituality and nature, the forest shrines in Gerusoppa provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with both the divine and the natural world.
Location: Gersoppa is located some 30 kms from jog falls
The Forest Shrines, Gerusoppa – Highlights
- Address: Gerusoppa Small town
- Distance from Mangaluru– 205km
- Timing: 6 AM to 5 PM
- Best time to visit – July to September
How to Reach Forest Shrines, Gerusoppa
By road
The nearest bus stop is Shivamogga, from here you can go to Gerusoppa. Otherwise by cab you can also travel to this place.
By Rail
To reach Gerusoppa by rail, you can take a train from Train to Shimoga railway station, which is about 104 km from Gerusoppa.From Shimoga, you can take a train to Talaguppa to reach Gerusoppa.
By Air
There is no airport in Gerusoppa. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport which is located about 200 km away from Gerusoppa. From the airport, you can take a taxi to reach Gerusoppa.
Karnataka is a state in India that is home to many hidden gems. Exploring these hidden gems in Karnataka promises not only a journey through picturesque landscapes but also an opportunity to uncover the rich heritage and biodiversity that make this state truly special.
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