4 off-beat places to visit in Karnataka from Bangalore

2017 is the year of long weekends. So, it’s time to make the most of these weekends.  Whether you’re a nature lover, beach bum or an architecture fiend, these offbeat places in Karnataka has something for everyone.



1. Kudremukh
 

Where: Located in the Western Ghats, this hill range and town, Kudremukh is a slice of paradise on Earth. This place is known for its peak, which resembles a horse’s mouth.   
Distance from Bangalore:  330 kms by road ;  by rail: Mangalore railway station, followed by a 100km drive by car or bus.
For whom: Avid trekkers and nature enthusiasts’. There are 13 trekking trails, of which the Kudramukh peak is much sought after because it is enveloped by lush greenery, and is the third highest peak.
Best time to visit: October - March
Other Activities: Hanuman Gundi waterfall, UNESCO’s Gangamoola and Lakya Dam.

2. Marvanthe
 

Where: This hamlet in Kundapur has one of the most beautiful beaches which is not very crowded. What makes this drive special is the presence of a Sauparnika river on one side of the road and the Arabian beach that runs parallel to it, making it a scenic coastal drive.
Distance from Bangalore:  450 kms by road; by rail, the closest station is Kundapur, and from there an 18km ride.
For whom: Beach bums and adventure enthusiasts
Best time to visit: September - March
Other activities: Trekking at Kodachadri Hills, boat rides on Sauparnika, and snorkelling.



 

3. Karigatta Black Hills
 

Where: Just shy of Srirangapatna, lies this Karighatta, which translates to Black Hill in Kananda. The drive to the top of this hill is noteworthy, as well as the splendid panoramic view of Srirangapatna and Mysore.  A temple sits atop this hill called Karagirivasa.
Distance from Bangalore:  125kms by road
For whom: Those who love visiting temples, and nature lovers.
Best time to visit: October - March
Other activities: Visit the Nimishamba temple dedicated to Parvathi




 

4. Belur  
 

Where: Once the capital of the famous Hoyasala Kingdom, Belur is a good off-beat destination. If you haven’t visited this slice of history that is often described in history books, you don’t know what you’re missing.
Distance from Bangalore:  210kms by road
For whom: History and architecture buffs
Best time to visit: October - April
Other activities: Picnic by the Yagachi Dam
 

• travel
• offbeat
• local
• bangalore
• belur
• maravanthe
• beach
• hill station
• trekking
• temple