Best things to do in the Western Ghats

 

Best things to do in the Western Ghats: There is nothing more pleasurable than driving through the Western ghats-Western ghats are what dreams are made of.

The Western Ghats are the beautiful range of mountains that lie parallel to the western coastline of India and make some of the greenest and most adventurous trips in the country. Lost in the layers of mist and smog with waterfalls gushing down, this whole stretch of the world’s hottest ecological hotspot is the path to embark upon.

The Western Ghats situated in the Sahyadri Mountain Range happens to be the oldest mountain range in India. Also known as the “Great Escarpment of India”, the Western Ghats is one of the most bio-diverse ranges with over 300 endangered species of flora and fauna sprinkled over 1400 square kilometers of land area.

To experience the hilly ranges at their best, paying a visit to the western ghats in the monsoon is the most endearing and blissful experience with the rains creating magic all around. Here are a few activities to take on and some captivating scenic locations one should set their eyes on when in the Western Ghats.

 

Things to do in Chikmagalur

Located in the southern Western Ghats of India, Chikmagalur is one of the very few places in India that amalgamates nature, adventure, heritage, coffee plantations all into one good-looking destination.

Here are a few things you should add to your Chikmagalur itinerary and enjoy your trip to the maximum.

 

1.The Kudremukha National Park-

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kudremukh National Park is an extremely famous tourist spot in Chikmagalur, given the various sightseeing options as well as the outdoor activities, organized here

 

2.Mulayanagiri Trek-

Mullayanagiri, at a height of 6,330 feet, is the tallest peak in the state of Karnataka. If you’re searching for an adrenaline rush in Chikmagalur, this is the activity for you.

Climbing down this small slope is an exhilarating experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. Whether you’ve always longed to see sylvan splendor or walk through grass, now is your chance.

 

3.Explore Caves at Baba Budangiri–

This location is well-known in Chikmagalur, and it should be on your Chikmagalur bucket list. The tallest mountain in this region is Mullayanagiri, which is 1900 meters above sea level.

The three caves on this peak, where three saints are buried, are the most interesting aspect of the mountain. Saints are holy oracles, and these caverns host an annual rite. The scenery and surroundings are beautiful.

 

4.Explore the coffee culture of Chikmagalur-

Chikmagalur is an ideal destination for those who enjoy strolling through deep bushes of wild coffee, spotting strange creatures and birds.

The majority of the hotels are located in the vicinity of the coffee plantation, providing travelers with the opportunity to remain under the shade of green.

 

5.Enjoy Rafting at Bhadra-

The Chikmagalur hills are surrounded by the Bhadra River. The water is rushing and leaping here, making it ideal for river rafting. Aside from rafting, you may enjoy the lush flora and stunning vistas of Chikmagalur’s hills.

You can also go camping along the river’s edge, and canoeing is available. For those who enjoy rafting and kayaking, this could be a fun weekend trip.

 

6.Bhadra Dam-

The Bhadra Dam, which is located on the Bhadra River, is utilized for irrigation. This dam also serves as a power source for nearby villages.

The dam’s backwaters flow into the forest reserve. Crocodiles can also be seen here, as well as a variety of bird species.

 

Things to do in Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur is a little enthralling town located 220 kilometers from Bangalore. It is situated in the foothills of the Western Ghats in the Malnad region, and it offers breathtaking views.

Cardamom, coffee, and pepper farms abound in the lush green hills of this interesting town, making for a magical surprise. Sakleshpur has a lot of interesting places to see.

On the outskirts of Sakleshpur, Manjarabad Fort rises at a height of 3240 feet. Tipu Sultan constructed the star-shaped fort as a defensive structure.

The fort is a must-see for anyone interested in seeing the splendor of Islamic-style architecture. The climb to the fort is strenuous, but the view of the Western Ghats from the summit is breathtaking.

 

1.Magajahalli Falls –

Magajahalli Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, 5 kilometers from Hanbal and 21 kilometers from Sakleshpur.

It is one of Sakleshpur’s most beautiful waterfalls and one of the greatest tourist attractions in the city. The waterfall, also known as Hanbal Falls and Abbi Gundi Falls, falls from a height of around 20 feet and is a famous tourist attraction.

 

2.Visit the Bisle View Point-

Bisle Ghat Viewpoint in the Bisle Reserve Forest is a trekker’s dream, surrounded by deep forest, streams, and waterfalls. The Dodda Betta-Yenikallu Betta, Pushpagiri, and Kumara Parvatha mountain ranges, as well as the river Giri, attract travelers with their panoramic vistas.

The forest department built a shelter at the viewpoint because it is a protected area with no human habitation.

 

3.Explore the Agni Betta Hill-

Agni Gudda Hill, also known as a trekker’s paradise, is one of Sakleshpur’s most popular tourist attractions. Because of its volcanic character, it is known as the fiery mountain and is accessible from agani village through a 3-kilometer, one-hour hike.

From the summit, you can have a picnic and enjoy a clear view of the plains filled with rice fields. You can enjoy the stunning starlit view of the Milky Way from this popular overnight camping area.

 

4.Visit the Shrine of Nagas, Kukke Subramanya-

The Kukke Subrahmanya Temple, dedicated to the Lord of All Serpents, Kartikeya in the form of Subrahmanya, is a well-known Hindu temple that offers unparalleled tranquility.

The temple, which is one of the top tourist attractions in Sakleshpur, is a delightful attraction whether you want to explore the beautiful natural terrain that surrounds this location or are fascinated by Indian mythology. Devotees believe that skin disorders can be cured here, making it the final destination for salvation. Pilgrims are required to cross the Kumaradhara River and take a holy plunge before visiting this sacred site.

 

Things to do in Hassan

Hassan is a lovely city as well as a district in Karnataka’s Mysore Silk state. This city takes its name after Hassanamba, a Hindu Goddess. Its history may be traced back to the Hoysala Empire in the 11th century, and its impact can be seen in the inscriptions on monuments. A multitude of religious sites, as well as museums, can be found around the city.

 

1.ShettiHalli Church-

Shettihalli Church, also known as “The Floating Church” and “The Submerged Church,” began to be submerged in water in the 1960s, when the Gorur Reservoir was established to channel the Hemavathi River’s flow.

Several villages were inundated along with the Shettihalli Church, and while the people were moved, the church was abandoned. As more people become aware of the stunning architectural marvel, a growing number of tourists visit to spend quality time with family and friends.

 

2.Visit the Gorur Dam-

Gorur Dam, also known as Hemavathi Dam, is one of Hassan’s most popular tourist destinations. It was built across the Hemavathi river in 1979 and is used for drinking, irrigation, and domestic chores.

You might also get a chance to see some of the many birds that frequent the reservoir. A striking picnic spot, Gorur Dam is a popular tourist place in Hassan and attracts tourists from all across the country.

 

3.Bhagavan Bahubali Statue-

Bhagwan Bahubali Statue or Gommateshwara is a 17-meter-tall free-standing monolith statue of the Jain deity Bahubali, which was built in 983 AD. It can be found on the Vindhyagiri Hills.

The location is also ideal for obtaining a panoramic view of the surrounding area. In 2005, the statue was designated as one of India’s seven wonders.

 

4.Hasanamba Temple-

Hasanamba Temple is a one-of-a-kind temple dedicated to the goddess Shakti that is only accessible for two weeks during Diwali. As an offering, devotees bring uncooked rice and light a lamp.

The lamp is said to burn indefinitely, and the rice is said to never decay until the temple’s doors open again. The magnificent building reflects the Hoysalas’ devotion to Jainism. This temple, which is almost 800 years old, is one of the top spots to visit in Hassan and should not be overlooked.

 

6.Maharaja Park-

Maharaja Park, a popular picnic location for locals and visitors alike, is another fantastic place to visit in Hassan. It is a well-kept park with a thick blanket of grass covering it.

There are many wide walks lined with green shrubs and big trees. Aside from that, there is a separate children’s playground where your children can have fun. This makes it an ideal destination for families with children to visit in Hassan.

 

Things to do in Shringeri

Sringeri Sharda Peetham is another name for the town, which is home to a 1200-year-old temple. Adi Shankaracharya is said to have chosen this location to remain and instruct his disciples, and he was so taken with it that he stayed for twelve years.

He founded mathas throughout North India, East India, and West India after that. Sringeri is located on the Tunga River’s banks. Sringeri will make you feel like you’re in seventh heaven because of its beautiful surroundings. Here are a few places that you must pay a visit to when in the town of Shringeri.

 

1.Sringeri Mutt-

Sringeri Mutt was founded in the 8th century AD by Adi Shankara, who is regarded as the greatest reformer and most inspirational teacher of ‘samartha’. Sringeri Mutt, built on the banks of the Tunga River, is a rustic ancient temple with a lot of history.

The atmosphere of this magnificent temple brims with force while also emanating tranquillity and peace, thanks to its rich history and religious significance.

 

2.Sirimane Falls-

Sirimane Falls is a beautiful waterfall at Kigga in Karnataka, located 5 kilometers from Kigga and 15 kilometers from Sringeri. It’s also known as Kigga Falls, and it’s one of Karnataka’s most popular waterfalls, as well as one of Sringeri’s most famous tourist destinations.

This waterfall, which reaches a height of around 40 feet, is set in tranquil surroundings, surrounded by deep woodland.

 

3.Visit Agumbe-

Agumbe is a small hill town in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India, located 26 kilometers from Sringeri, it is one of the most enchanting offbeat hill stations, nestled in the thickly forested Malnadu region of the Western Ghats.

Agumbe comes alive with multiple waterfalls during the rainy season, attracting a large number of tourists from all over the world. Agumbe is also the starting point for several hiking trails and waterfalls located across the hills. Sri Gopala Krishna temple, Kunchikal Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls, Jogi Gundi Falls are a few to name.

 

4.Horanadu-

Horanadu is a sacred Hindu village in Malnad, Karnataka, known for the famous Annapoorneeshwari Temple. At an elevation of 2726 feet, this location is carpeted with green paddy fields and surrounded by a hilly backdrop.

Horanadu is known for its huge collection of dried fruits, cashew nuts, and almonds, as well as tea, coffee, and spice stores, in addition to its pristine natural beauty.

 

5.VidyaShankara Temple-

This temple is dedicated to the pontiff Vidyashankara and is a wonderful example of both South Indian and Vijayanagara architectural traditions. On the interiors of the edifice, numerous inscriptions are depicting the Vijayanagara rulers’ reign.

It was one of Adi Shakara’s early Advaitha Mathas, and Sureshwarachrya, Adi Shankara’s pupil, was the first head of the Matha. This temple’s earliest documented records date from the eighth century.

Kerala is said to be God’s nation. But that is merely a part of God’s own country, which also includes Karnataka to the north. In Kerala, this area is known as Wyenad, but in Karnataka, it is known as Malnad. It’s just that there hasn’t been as much commercial hoopla about Malnad in the media as there has been about Kerala. During the winter and spring, the lush deciduous forests tend to make the weather a little humid. The monsoons bring tremendous rains, bringing hundreds of streams to life. The rivers are brimming with water, and the cascading falls are a sight to behold.

In the Western Ghats, Kundadri, a mountain top near Thirthahalli, is covered in a deep forest. There is a tiny 17th-century Jain temple on the top, with two little ponds made by the rock with lotus all through the year. The pond’s water level is said to be stable throughout the year.

The famed Jog falls are roughly 100 kilometers from T.halli, where the Sharavathi River cascades down 900 feet into a valley from various points. The grandeur of the falls resides in the several cascades that appear to fall in various directions.

For trekkers, Kodachadri is a spectacular location. It is well-known for its diverse flora and fauna. In Kodachadri, photographers can capture magnificent vistas and even wild animals. Travelers can also hire local jeeps to get to the top of the slope.

Are you planning a trip to Thirthahalli with your family? Make sure to include Sakrebailu Elephant Camp in your travel plans. Domestic tuskers and baby elephants can be admired and even played with at this eco-tourism center and elephant training camp. Yes, wait until the interaction sessions, when you’ll be able to interact with and feed them.

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small island near Mandagadde town, around 30 kilometers from Thirthahalli. During peak season, the area attracts around 5,000 birds, including migratory birds and species such as Maiden Egrets, Wooly Neck Stalks, and Night Herons. We believe it is a birdwatcher’s delight! The island, which is surrounded by woodland and the Tunga river, is an excellent option if you wish to avoid the regular tourist traps.