- Whether you are a beach bum or an avid culture buff, Karnataka has something for everyone
- Check out these lesser-known destinations from Bangalore
- Make the most of your long weekends in 2017
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 field, these offbeat places in Karnataka have 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 km 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 km 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 snorkeling.
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 great Hoysala Kingdom, Belur is a real 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