Where is Honnavar, Mahindra’s ‘hidden gem’? All about this lesser-known tourist spot
Honnavar doesn't ask you to rush; it invites you to drift. Here is a look at why this coastal hidden gem deserves a spot on your travel radar
It's a place as pretty as Kerala's stunning backwaters, but was never part of a tourist's itinerary.
Until industrialist Anand Mahindra decided to pen a post on this 'hidden gem' as he called it - Honnavar in Karnataka. He has stoked the interest of many as he described the place's "magical landscape" covered with mangrove forests, winding waterways and mirror-like backwaters.
Nestled along the Konkan coast in Karnataka's Uttara Kannada district, this quiet town is where the mighty Sharavathi River lazily melts into the Arabian Sea. It’s truly an offbeat paradise defined by slow-moving backwaters, dense mangrove forests like Bengal’s mesmeric Sundarbans and spiritual retreats in the form of old temples.
In a way, Honnavar doesn't ask you to rush; it invites you to drift. Here is a look at why this coastal hidden gem deserves a spot on your travel radar.
Sharavati Mangrove Walkway
Unlike its bustling neighbours, Gokarna (50 km north) and Murudeshwar (35 km south), Honnavar offers an intimate look at coastal rural life.
Honnavar's most enchanting experience is the Sharavati Mangrove Walkway. It is a well-paved wooden walkway that takes visitors through the middle of the mangrove forest and the Sharavati river. The 1.4-kilometer-long elevated wooden boardwalk slices directly through the dense, tangled roots of the mangrove trees.
Walking here feels like stepping into a subterranean green tunnel. The canopy above screens out the harsh sun, creating a world of soft, filtered light where you can only hear the melodious calls of resident birds.
Boating on the backwaters
No trip to Honnavar is complete without drifting through the Sharavati backwaters.
A boat ride along the narrow pathways of the backwaters flanked by rich mangrove forests. It is a deeply tranquil escape where the only sound is the splash of oars and the calls of vibrant birdlife hiding in the canopy.
The places you expect to see on the Sharavati Backwater Boating tour: Lush green mangrove forests lining the waterways; a variety of birdlife, including kingfishers, egrets, and herons and small villages and farms nestled along the riverbanks.
Beyond the river, Honnavar’s coastline offers untouched sanctuaries like Tamrin Ghat and Shelly Beach, perfect for sun-soaked solitude away from crowds.
Apsarakonda Falls
Legend says celestial nymphs used to descend from heaven to bathe in this natural sweet-water pond.
Situated just 8 km from the town, a short, scenic trek takes you to a 10-meter-high waterfall cascading into a shallow pool surrounded by massive peepal tree roots and hidden caves. A viewing spot from above the waterfall offers a breathless view of the coastline below.
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There is a beach located near these falls which is less crowded, calm, and visually stunning. Surrounded by hills and near the caves, it is an excellent spot for photographs.
Eco Beach
Just 20 km away from the famous Murudeshwara Temple, Eco Beach is one of the “Blue Flag’ certified beaches in India.
Earlier known as Kasargod Beach, Eco beach is one of the most virgin, pristine and serene beaches in the whole coastal belt. The 5 km long Eco Beach is more of a picnic spot with an eco-friendly twist catering to families, women travellers, and all those who want to have some quality time in the tranquillity of nature.
Temples on the hilltops
For those looking to soak in the local heritage, Honnavar is dotted with ancient spiritual retreats that double as incredible viewpoints.
The Karikanamma Temple sits isolated atop a hill 1,500 feet above sea level, offering a dramatic, bird's-eye view of the dense canopy fading into the Arabian Sea.
A short drive away lies the revered, 1,500-year-old Idagunji Mahaganapathi Temple, deep within a peaceful village setting. One of the most revered spiritual sites in the region, the Idagunji Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganapati.
Idagunji Devasthana is an ancient temple with a history of more than 1500 years, This centuries-old temple attracts thousands of devotees each year, especially during the annual festival when the town comes alive with vibrant celebrations and rituals.
Kodlamane Shree Vishnumurthy Temple
This temple is a major hotspot in the area. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Kodlamane Shree Vishnumurthy Temple is one of the hidden and unexplored places in Karnataka. The temple is one of the Hindu pilgrimages which is also considered a Thirth Kshetra in Honnavar taluka of the Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka. The temple was believed to have been discovered in dense forests centuries ago.
The temple can be reached after a short trek through serene nature paths and trails. One of the attractions is the Garuda Stambha or pillar at the main gate which cannot be missed. The temple is of great religious importance.
Basavaraj Durga Islands
Another ancient temple dating back to the 16th century is called Basavaraj Durga Fort and a temple, which is located on an island. This island can be reached by boat.
In the waters of the Arabian Sea crossing through River Sharavathi, the temple, according to legends, is believed to be constructed by the rulers of the 16th and 17th centuries.
For scuba-divers
For sea sport lovers, Netrani Island, near Honnavar, is a paradise for scuba divers with clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich marine life.
Traveller's toolkit
Best time to visit:
October to March (Pleasant weather which is ideal for boating)
July to September (For soaking in some dramatic monsoon greenery)
How to reach:
By rail
Honnavar has very good rail connectivity from major towns of Karnataka and neighbouring states. There are direct trains from Mumbai, Goa, Bangalore, Shimoga, and Mangalore to the railway station here.
By road
By road it is a scenic 8 hour drive from Bengaluru via NH 66
By air
The nearest airport to reach Honnavar by air is either Goa or Mangalore. While Goa is 166 km away and takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, Mangalore is 180 km and takes 3 hours and 20 minutes to reach Honnavar by road.
For the best connectivity to the last mile, Honnavar should be best reached by road. The state-run KSRTC buses, cabs, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are the best modes of travel in Honnavar.
Where to stay: Immersive eco-stays and homestays offer a farm-to-table coastal dining experience.
A sanctuary
Honnavar isn’t just another destination meant for crossing sights off a checklist.
It is a sanctuary meant for travellers who want to slow down, rent a scooter, watch the tides change, and experience coastal Karnataka in its purest, most raw form.