In his Insider Guide To Coastal Karnataka, Rupert Parker Explores Karnataka’s Incredible Coastline Where The Lush Western Ghats Meet The Sea.
Karnataka is the sixth largest state in India, with 320kms of coast, one long strip of pristine sand, bisected by estuaries and backwaters. The Western Ghats, recognized among the world’s top eight biodiversity hotspots, run in an unbroken line along one side. On the other, the waves of the Arabian Sea break onto deserted beaches. And, dotted all along the coast, are majestic temples, a magnet for hundreds of thousands of pilgrims.
Karwar
At the northernmost tip of coastal Karnataka lies Karwar, a serene town that inspired the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore to write his famous poem, Prakritir Pratishodha. Surrounded by several mangrove-covered islands on one side and hills of the Western Ghats on the other, the big attraction are the long sandy beaches. No crowds here, just miles of deserted shoreline.
Take a Shikhara, a traditional wooden boat, on a cruise along the Kali River. It’s a journey into the heart of nature, where the emerald-green waters wind through mangroves and dense forests. These are teeming with birdlife, and tiny fishing villages dot the banks where life hasn’t changed for centuries. Children call from the banks, offering snacks and fruit in exchange for a handful of rupees.
Sky Dining
150 kms south, next to Maravanthe Beach, is a newly opened sky dining facility. Guests are securely seated around a table and you’re then hoisted 90 metres above the ground by a crane. On one side are panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the tranquil Sowparnika River on the other. The food is a fusion of local and international cuisines, although some people may not have the stomach for eating this high.
Udupi
The route south, crossing countless palm and mangrove fringed estuaries, is one of the most scenic in India. At 50km is Udupi, a city where the famous Masala Dosa was invented, and home to the Krishna Temple. It’s visited by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year, who peer through a small silver-plated window to catch a glimpse of the idol. Legend has it that it was discovered by the 13th century Hindu saint, Madhva, inside a block of mud.
St. Mary’s Island
Udupi is not just about spirituality, it has also some of the best sandy beaches on the coast. Malpe, located just 6kms away, offers golden sands, swaying palm trees, and stunning sunsets. You can also take a 45 minute boat ride from here to Mary’s Island. According to legend, the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first set foot here in 1498 before proceeding to the mainland.
The island is famed for its unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity over 88 million years ago when Madagascar separated from the Indian subcontinent. It’s also home to several bird species, making it an ideal spot for enthusiasts to observe coastal and migratory birds.
Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum
A few kms inland in the town of Manipal, the Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum is a collection of historical buildings rescued from the surrounding area. There are 11 traditional houses originating from the South Canara, North Canara, and Malnad regions, dating between 1705 and 1856. Notable among these is the Miyar House, constructed in 1856, which once belonged to South Canara Brahmins.
There are also three non-residential structures, dating from 1341 to 1902. A highlight is the Kamal Mahal of Kukanoor, a 13th-century edifice that served as the private office of the Vijayanagar Kingdom’s military governor. Also are two monasteries from the 16th and 18th centuries and shrines dedicated to folk deities of coastal Karnataka.
Mangalore
Mangalore, officially known as Mangaluru, is a bustling port that makes a good endpoint. Finish your journey at Mangaladevi Temple, a 9th-century shrine dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Mangaladevi, after whom the city is named. Another iconic site is St. Aloysius Chapel, famous for its stunning frescoes by the Italian artist Antonio Moscheni.
For a taste of local life, visit the bustling Central Market where you’ll discover a variety of spices, seafood, and fresh local produce. Food lovers will find solace in Mangalore’s unique cuisine, which is an interesting fusion of coastal flavours. Indulge in delicacies like Mangalorean Fish Curry, Neer Dosa, and the aromatic Kori Rotti. Even better dine out under the stars on Mangalore’s long sandy beach with the sounds of sea as your background.
Tell Me More About this Insider Guide To Coastal Karnataka in India
Air India flies direct from London Heathrow to Bangalore. A scenic 9 hour train ride brings you to Mangalore.
Ganyam Beach Resort in Kumta is a luxury spa location with its own deserted beach.
The UVA Meridian Bay in Kundapur is a comfortable all-inclusive with a spa and amusement park.
The AJ Grand Hotel makes a good base in downtown Mangalore
Sky Dining Trasi Maravanthe Beach offers food with a view.
Seashells at Paradise Isle Beach Resort in Malpe offers good local seafood.
Le Sparrow, at Panambur Beach in Mangalore, offers dining under the stars.
Karnataka Tourism has information about this Insider Guide To Coastal Karnataka.
.The Karnataka International Tourism Expo (KITE) is a yearly showcase for the state’s many attractions.
