Tag Archives: Karnataka

Coastal Udupi, Mangaluru and Back to Bangaluru Karnataka, India.

Sub Continent,

While Karnataka has long been celebrated for its hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, regional cuisines and historical sites, its coastal tourism sector is now receiving unprecedented attention.

Ever been Sky Dining? Me either – until just recently.

If you’re seeking an exceptional dining experience, which will have you elated (quite literally), then SKY DINING is tailor-made to suit you and your adventurous guests.

SKY DINING is a unique concept that enables you and your loved ones to eat, drink and be merry at the height of 50 metres above ground level and it’ll be an affair to remember. The structure is supported by one crane, which houses people around the table and a staff of 4 people at its centre. The views of Trasi Beach near Udupi is mesmerising and although this might not be one of Karnataka’s usual sites of ancientness, it’s a drawcard amongst those exploring new activities.

Karnataka is emerging as a strong contender in the coastal tourism space, capturing attention with its pristine beaches, untouched landscapes and dynamic government-backed initiatives.

Honnavar is a scenic small town in Uttara Kannada with the magnificent Arabian Sea on one side and the mighty Western Ghats on the other. It’s often ignored by visitors travelling to Murudeshwara, Gokarna or Karwar. Easily accessible from Bangalore, Mangalore or Goa, Honnavar is known for its plethora of suspension bridges, waterfalls, coastal cuisine, hiking trails and mangrove forests.

Add Honnavar to a Shimoga or Udupi / Mangalore itinerary or just visit the area and explore the destination at a slow leisurely pace. 

If there’s a safe haven in regard to swimming, be rest assured there’s no shortage of beaches with lifeguards at the ready as the authorities are quite aware of people’s inability to stay afloat even when the water is calm. Look for coastal beaches with flags and safety in mind. Adhere to the rules and opening times of the coastal beaches which should be an experience of knowing you are in secure hands.

Lunchtime! A Thali platter cannot be passed by if it’s on the menu where your trip takes you. And known predominately for its veg option, it has a variety of accompaniments; mostly spicy. This will tantalise the most ardent chili, spice loving diner at any degree of the heat scale.

On the road again, the landscape is truly surrounded by an abundance of fast-growing forestation and fauna.

Small boats on the Sharavati Backwater are a must-do activity for anyone visiting Honnavar. The backwaters are formed by the Sharavati River which creates a labyrinth of waterways, islands and mangrove forests. A leisurely boat ride through these backwaters is a tranquil and scenic experience offering a glimpse of the rich biodiversity of the region.

Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village is located just 5.6 km from Udupi and 1.4 km from Manipal. The Village is a remarkable open-air museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Established and managed by the Hasta Shilpa Trust, it stands as a testimony to India’s diverse traditions, craftsmanship and historic architecture.

An interesting and unique museum of which enthusiastic volunteers and staff carry on the traditions of Karnataka’s past along with some buildings from their neighbour Kerala.

An occupant of the Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village is this wooden structure of a bygone era, saved for restoration and is a real ‘show pony’ amongst the other residing artifacts.

Spanning an expansive area, the village boasts 18 fully restored heritage buildings including:

  • The 13th-century Harihara Mandir: A shrine that exemplifies ancient craftsmanship.
  • Traditional Houses: These include residences from Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, highlighting the diversity of vernacular architecture.
  • Artifacts and Crafts: Rare tribal art from Bastar-Chhattisgarh, exquisite folk deities from South Canara, textiles, furniture, and ancient tools are on display, offering a window into India’s material culture.

Source: https://www.udupitourism.com/explore

As time goes by so do these clocks salvaged by passionate locals, also on show along with many other interesting household objects within the village’s compartmental displays just like this one.

The ancient temples of Udupi – there’s no need to panic as there’s a plethora of places of worship. India being predominately Hindu, there’s an easiness amongst other belief systems who coexist admirably.

Q. What is Udupi famous for?

A. The district of Udupi in Karnataka is known for its cuisine and is also famous by the name Lord Parashurama Kshetra which is popular for Kanakana Kindi.

Q. Which is the best time to visit Udupi?

A. The most ideal time to visit Udupi is considered to be the winter months between October and March.

Udupi Shri Krishna Temple is a well-known historic Hindu temple dedicated to Krishna and Dvaita Matha located in the city of Udupi. The Matha area resembles a living Aashram – a holy place for daily devotion and living.

Considered to be one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in South India, the Krishna Temple or the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha is quite a lengthy name associated with the worship of Lord Krishna. The fascinating idol of the Lord is adorned with jewels and a golden chariot.

What makes the temple unique, is its worshipping pattern. The prayers and process of the whole worship take place only through a silver-plated window with nine holes called the Navagraha Kitiki. Although we were able to visit this site, photographs were not permitted but definitely worthy of a visit regardless of your faith (or perhaps not having one?).

Cows are sacred and shoes off at all temples regardless of your status. Usually, larger temples offer a dedicated holding stall and is safe in my opinion. A small fee will be charged, although some people chance it and leave theirs at the entrance unattended.

Sanctity of the cow, in Hinduism is the belief that the cow is representative of divine and natural beneficence and should therefore be protected and venerated. The cow has also been associated with various deities, notably Shiva (whose steed is Nandi, a bull), Indra (closely associated with Kamadhenu, the wish-granting cow), Krishna (a cowherd in his youth) and goddesses in general (because of the maternal attributes of many of them).

Source: Britannica

Bling anyone? Here at the Krishna Temple it’s most definitely an eye opener.

Mangaluru (Mangalore) is a multi-cultural small city on the coast which is home to the Aloysious College.

Established in 1880, the College now deemed to be a university prides itself in its history of 144 years. Despite its status as a minority institution, the college has imparted high-quality education to all sections of society regardless of caste, colour or creed.

Continuing on, the St. Aloysius Chapel in Mangaluru was built by Jesuit missionaries in 1880 and its interiors painted by the Italian Jesuit Antonio Moscheni in 1899 during the Mangalore Mission in 1878. The Italian Jesuits played an important role in education, health, and social welfare of the Mangalorean Catholic community.

At the Bannergatta National Park we were excited to see young leopards playing like kittens. Luckily, we are not able to play with them, only a safe sightseeing distance from the enclosed jeeps provided by the Park authorities.

The Butterfly Park within the same National Park was a highlight seeing these large butterflies being released into the park – an enclosure set up for their protection with other rare species.

Back in Bangaluru, one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world, located at Hare Krishna Hill. This stone temple is constructed as per traditional Shilpa shastras (designs as mentioned in scriptures) in the Dravidian style of architecture. Go early, the queues are a conquest if you dare to venture later in the day

Bollywood has come to us. At the Convention Centre in Bangaluru we were treated to various regional groups who showed us their own unique style and cultural heritage through dance.

Dinner time never looked so fantastic after a day’s outing. Buffet style is popular for both veg and non-veg diners.

A stay at the Radisson Blu Atria Hotel in Bangaluru is located in the City Center with two restaurants, a full-service spa and an outdoor pool. Free in-room WiFi also in public areas and free valet parking are also provided. Additionally, a fitness centre, a bar/lounge and a snack bar/deli are onsite whereby there’s a full-screen TV so that you’re not missing any of the live cricket action. Conversation starter? Just ask a local bar tender how much they love losing to the Aussies … Ouch!

Heading back into Bangaluru on the outskirts is Bhagwan Hanuman Mandir Temple with a magnificent sunset which seems to epitomise the spirituality and faith of the Hindu faith.

Hospitality in India is always considered the best service one can provide. And to end the day, when asking for a G and T, mention cricket and you’ll be welcomed as an Aussie who can be identified – not as a foe, but someone of substantial grit and substance who can take on the mighty Indian’s prowess of their beloved sport.

But like all fascinating trips to India, Karnataka really was a pleasant surprise and so many hidden gems within the state. Left wondering why it had taken so long to discover this amazing treasure trove of goodies?

Bangaluru to Mangaluru and return after experiencing the scenic coastline, has been a fascinating and rewarding experience. There’s always something new to discover here without too much effort.

And as Schwarzenegger would say … “I’ll be back”.

Stay Calm in Karnataka, India.

Sub Continent, ,

The state of Karnataka being in the southern part of India attracts visitors due to its location enriched by coastal beauties, the Western Ghats and heaped in antiquity; the ruling dynasties left vivid evidence of their presence through architectural gems along with intricately detailed sculptures of those in power in a bygone era.

Although Karnataka has a varied and tumultuous historical beginning, it has become an easy-going, fun-loving sector of the subcontinent.

Get India into ya! As a first-time visitor to anywhere in the subcontinent a tour is a safe and secure way of ensuring your worries are put to rest. A group of approximately 15 passengers allows space and comfort. A much more desirable way of not having to compete for a window seat and taking the time to know the other members who are also wanting to know each other’s background and culture – as well as thoughts on India. A camaraderie of sorts … make new friends and acquaintances to enrich your travel experience.

The most ardent and robust agencies generally offer great value for money with itineraries that focus hard in matching their client’s expectations, but sometimes there’s an odd surprise thrown in too – at no extra cost. Remember this is India and you can take your “me, myself and I” out of your precious self and go with the flow. Afterall it’s what you can count on if you’re a seasoned traveller and not just a tourist.

Choose hotel locations which allow you to test out the shopping, along with the ease of transportation options which can always be a decider for those who are seeking a holiday without any stress and broaden their horizons.

Thanks to Jyoti for the photo.

Bangaluru the capital of the state of Karnataka has fast become one of the most likeable cities in India and considered one of the best airports amongst many Australians, especially as the flight from Sydney, Australia is direct with Qantas Airlines to the newly refurbished Kempegowda International.

Qantas passengers connecting to IndiGo with a QF codeshare flight number receive the same checked baggage allowance as their flight from Australia, as well as complimentary food and drinks. T1 and T2 are part of the same airport complex but designed to handle traffic efficiently, ensuring minimal hassle for passengers. The terminals are conveniently connected making transfers relatively straightforward.

There’s a myriad of choice with airlines and/or tour companies for onward travel. The options are endless within this state and holds no barriers when it comes to doing as much as you like or just relaxing with a Masala Chai Tea brewed to perfection whilst people watching the locals of their daily rituals. Or simply pondering your upcoming itinerary of mesmerising activities?

Whilst in Bangaluru, a visit to the Rangoli Gardens is a must-see with life-like figures which give scale and is a truly eye-catching experience. Here we were able to witness the sculpture of Ghandi who subsequently became known as Mahatma (the great soul) who adopted a policy of passive resistance (or satyagraha), to British Rule of the past.

Life in India and particularly to the regional areas, Rangoli Gardens situated at Jakkur is an authentic village, showcasing life as it was, filled with a restored rich culture in all forms and natural splendor. Here you’ll find a heritage of innumerable paintings, visuals and eco-parks crafted artistically by skilled staff. If you’re short on time and wanting to learn about the history, economy and living conditions within India from the past to the present, then this is a definite on your to-do list.

A pit stop and some morning tea at a roadhouse allowed us the chance to admire the first of many statues – later on there’s more on temples and interesting attractions within Karnataka.

Breakfast never looked so good. Traversing over the Western Ghats led us to an amazing viewpoint and overnight stay at the Trivik Spa and Resort.

The air quality here at this level is so fresh and clean it’s invigorating and the inspiration of simply walking for a bout of exercise is encouraging – even for the die hards who’ll find any excuse not to …

And for ‘High Tea’ a Banana Leaf experience of freshly made exquisite snacks with a view from the 23rd highest point in the Western Ghats. Surrounded by its own coffee plantation, the property maintains acres of highly sought-after beans, both locally and internationally. Now this is how Afternoon Tea should be every day …

And at the end of the day, we were rewarded with this superb vantage viewpoint at such a salubrious Spa and Resort.

The Trivik Resort and Spa offers clean, spacious accommodation with staff who deliver service and hospitality to the greatest of accolades. At Chikmagalur this property is an escape to a world above the clouds set at 5,400 feet (1,646 metres) above sea level with 41 elegantly designed suites with a choice of views starting with Mountain, Coffee, Garden and there’s also a Family configuration.

As groups arrive at various designated properties, more often than not you’ll be greeted by a local entourage of musicians who display their traditional song and dance of hand-me-down stories from the region.

Although the highway is undergoing a major transformation, the accommodation provided within the Western Ghats was always quality with spacious rooms and amenities.

Did someone say cooking class? States of India have their own particular dish and/or cuisine made from the surrounding localities. Here at Gamyam Ayurveda and Yoga Resort a fine effort was made using organic seasonal produce, showing us their own unique methods of cooking delectable goodies. Here at the Beach Hut an open-air cooking class was underway and yes right at the beach.

A tasty starter Pomfret Fish Tawa fried in ghee and a delicious coconut curry to accompany.

To begin with, the dough is patted out on a banana leaf as it releases the oils naturally into the mix adding an extra twist in flavour.

Whilst staying at the Gamyam Beach Retreat undoubtedly, it’s a fabulous location. A luxurious beachfront oasis nestled in the tranquil town of Kumta in the Konkan region of Karnataka. At the end of the cooking class a relaxing cool beverage along with the token-made snacks, we had time to unwind and take on all the amenities the resort had to offer such as a delicious buffet dinner of mixed cuisine offering both western and Indian.

Next stop we’ll explore the coastal regions of Udupi and Mangaluru. Stay tuned for the next blog post.