10 offbeat travel destinations to visit in Karnataka

Karnataka is blessed with some diverse wildlife, nonchalant beaches, surreal mountain ranges, wonderful heritage, and a beautiful language. Stretching from Belagavi in the north to Bangalore in the south, the state has 21 wildlife sanctuaries that account for the majority of Tigers and elephants population in India. Along with over 20+ mountain ranges, a coastline of around 300 km adjoining the Western ghats, and also being the IT hub of the country, Karnataka truly lives to its tagline "One state, Many Worlds".

Given all the abundant destinations this state has to offer, Most places here still remain less touristy and unpolluted from the human crowd. The originality of these places is still retained with no compromise. Karnataka surely is a backpacker's delight.

Here are some 10 offbeat places that you can consider visiting the next time you plan for a getaway in Karnataka.

1. Gokarna

Touted to be the poor man's Goa, Gokarna is one of the much-coveted beach destinations of Karnataka. A weekend stroll will let you cover most of its beaches from the famous Om beach to along with Yana caves, and Mirjan fort. Beach trekking and camping is highly recommended here. Although you can take a cozy beachside resort and chill by the waves. Either way, you will never get enough of this sacred land of the beaches at your first visit.

Distance from Bengaluru: 480 km

Best time to visit: Any time, If you can bear some heat. Otherwise October to March

2. Dandeli

Dandeli offers a wide variety of adventure water games from the state's best white water rafting to jacuzzi, kayaking, zorbing, and river crossing. Apart from the water activities, there are trekking, cycling, jungle safari, and camping available in the mountains. The primary interests of this place being , , Kali Tiger Reserve, and Syntheri rocks. Dandeli has the right mix between adventure and tranquility.

Distance from Bengaluru: 460 km

Best time to visit: Monsoons and post monsoons

Kali River Rafting

3. Netrani Island

Holding the iconic statue of Lord Shiva overlooking the Arabian Sea, Murudeshwar is another attractive beach destination to count on after Gokarna. Along with some temples and a couple of beaches, the main attraction here is the Netrani Island. Boasting rich marine biodiversity, It has one of the best Scuba diving spots on the entire west coast. An average dive might cost you around 4k but will provide an experience that's worth a lifetime.

Distance from Bengaluru: 475 km

Best time to visit: November to January

4. Hebbe Falls

Located in Bhadra reserve forest amidst coffee estates, Hebbe falls is a hidden gem that is untouched by the major crowd. Since the visitors are allowed only in small batches, This waterfall looks very isolated. You will have to take a government-approved jeep ride that costs ₹400/person which takes you through the rugged terrain of the forest.

Once you reach the spot, You'll need to trek through some small streams to finally touchdown Hebbe falls. There is also a small pool formed upfront at the base adding to its beauty. Incredibly refreshing waterfall with not more than 10-15 hooomans in the vicinity. You will not have more than an hour to spend here making way for the next batch.

Distance from Bengaluru: 280 km

Best time to visit: September to March

Hebbe Falls in the month of May

5. Dabdabe falls

Jhari or Dabdabe is another stunning waterfall in the Chikmagalur region. Taking a roller coaster of a jeep ride, you will be able to reach the falls. Be sure not to venture this ride with a fully loaded colon😆. Located at a private site, it will cost 600 for the jeep. Unlike Hebbe, This place is a little crowded and more commercialized. Yet stands out for its therapeutic waters and it's no short of an adventure if you want to climb up the slopes of the falls.

Distance from Bengaluru: 270 km

Best time to visit: August to January

Dabdabe Falls

6. Kudremukha

Kudremukha is the 3rd highest mountain peak and one of the most scenic ranges in Karnataka. It is very well known for its trekking trail. Throughout the trekking distance of approx 20 km in the reserve forest, You will be presented with water streams, cascading falls, and magnificent views en route to the peak. The trek involves several uphills and downhills to be taken with varying levels of difficulty.

Distance from Bengaluru: 330 km

Best time to visit: July to December

7. Maravanthe

Maravanthe is a one-off place that you will cross by, On your way from Murudeshwer to Udupi. The river Soupernika flows so close to the sea separated by a very thin stretch of land. As you drive by, you will see a steady flow of the river on one side and the crashing waves on the other. A place to unwind on your road trip. Preferably in the evenings.

Distance from Bengaluru: 450 km

Best time to visit: Anytime

8.Iruppu Falls

Iruppu falls is situated in the Brahmagiri forest range bordering Kerela and Karnataka in Madikeri. The route to the falls is in itself a ride to cherish. On crossing the reserve forest you'll be guided by plenty of spotted deers and if lucky you can catch a glimpse of other wild animals too. A pleasantly satisfying waterfall that shouldn't be missed when you are in and around Kodagu, famously known as Coorg.Disclaimer: Be vary of the leeches during the monsoons.

Distance from Bengaluru: 210 km

Best time to visit: August to January

9. Jog Falls

Jog falls make for a fantastic monsoon experience any nature enthusiast ought to miss. This is the second-highest plunge waterfall in India, adding a crown to the already enchanting western ghats. The river Sharavati cascades into Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket that collectively forms the Jog waterfalls.

There are several spectacular viewpoints where you can catch its breathtaking scenery. Trekking to the base of the falls is also available. Shirur lake near Jog falls provides different water activities such as kayaking, zorbing, and zipline to name a few.

Distance from Bengaluru: 410 km

Best time to visit: Monsoons

10. Dubare

Dubare forest is located on the banks of river Cauvery. It is well known for its white water rafting and elephant camping. The rapids in the river are good from July to October. Rafting is also available at the Barapole river which is equally good. Other places of interest include the Nagarhole, Talacauvery, and Abbey waterfalls. Proclaimed to be the Scotland of India, Coorg also boasts for its widespread Coffee plantations.

Distance from Bengaluru: 250 km

Best time to visit: July till September

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