Dharmasthala, a small temple town located in the Karnataka state of India, is a popular pilgrimage center that attracts millions of tourists and devotees every year. Surrounded by lush green hills, rivers, and waterfalls, Dharmasthala is not just a spiritual destination but also a perfect place for nature and adventure lovers. In this article, we will explore some of the must-visit places near Dharmasthala that are worth exploring.
Places to Visit Near Dharmasthala
Dharmasthala is located in the heart of the Malnad region, which is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. The region is home to several tourist attractions that are just a few kilometers away from Dharmasthala. Here are some of the places that you should not miss when you are in Dharmasthala:
1. Kudremukh National Park
Located around 100 kilometers from Dharmasthala, Kudremukh National Park is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. Spread over an area of 600 square kilometers, the park is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The park offers several trekking trails, including the popular Kudremukh peak trek, which is a must-do activity for adventure enthusiasts.
2. Agumbe
Agumbe, known as the Cherrapunji of the South, is a small village located around 60 kilometers from Dharmasthala. Famous for its sunset point and rainforests, Agumbe is a perfect place for nature photography and bird watching. The village is also home to the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, which is dedicated to the conservation of the Western Ghats.
3. Horanadu
Horanadu, located around 100 kilometers from Dharmasthala, is a small temple town that is famous for the Annapoorneshwari Temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the goddess of food and nourishment. The temple is located amidst scenic surroundings and offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere to the visitors.
4. Karkala
Karkala, located around 40 kilometers from Dharmasthala, is a historical town that is famous for its Jain temples and monuments. The town is home to several ancient structures, including the Gomateshwara Bahubali statue, which is a must-visit attraction for history and architecture lovers.
5. Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, located around 60 kilometers from Dharmasthala, is a protected area that is home to several species of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer. The sanctuary offers several trekking trails and bird watching opportunities to the visitors.
Conclusion
Dharmasthala is not just a spiritual destination but also a perfect place for nature and adventure lovers. The region is home to several tourist attractions that are worth exploring. From national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to historical towns and temple towns, Dharmasthala offers a wide range of places to visit near Dharmasthala. So, plan your trip to Dharmasthala and explore these must-visit places near Dharmasthala. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Lake Como Italy)
Places To Visit Near Dharmasthala, Karnataka
Dharmasthala, a small temple town located in the district of Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, is a popular pilgrimage site known for its ancient temple, the Dharmasthala Temple. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and is situated on the banks of the river Netravathi. Apart from the temple, there are several other places to visit near Dharmasthala that are worth exploring.
1. Kudremukh National Park
Located about 95 km from Dharmasthala, the Kudremukh National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Spread over an area of 600 sq. km, the park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is named after the Kudremukh peak, which is the third highest peak in Karnataka. Visitors can enjoy trekking, wildlife spotting, and photography at the park.
2. Agumbe
Agumbe, a small village located about 65 km from Dharmasthala, is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The village is situated at an altitude of 826 meters and is surrounded by dense forests. Agumbe is also known as the Cherrapunji of the South as it receives the highest rainfall in Karnataka. Visitors can enjoy trekking, wildlife spotting, and photography at Agumbe.
3. Horanadu
Horanadu, a temple town located about 100 km from Dharmasthala, is known for its ancient temple, the Annapoorneshwari Temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the goddess of food. Visitors can offer prayers and seek blessings at the temple. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests and is situated on the banks of the river Bhadra.
4. Karkala
Karkala, a temple town located about 35 km from Dharmasthala, is known for its ancient Jain temples and monuments. The town is situated at an altitude of 56 meters and is surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can explore the Jain temples, monuments, and the Gomateshwara Statue, which is a 42-feet high statue of Lord Bahubali. The town is also known for its traditional handicrafts and local cuisine.
5. Mangalore
Mangalore, a coastal city located about 75 km from Dharmasthala, is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, temples, and churches. The city is situated at an altitude of 23 meters and is surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can explore the beaches, temples, churches, and the St. Aloysius Chapel, which is known for its stunning murals. The city is also known for its traditional handicrafts and local cuisine.
6. Udupi
Udupi, a temple town located about 60 km from Dharmasthala, is known for its ancient temples and cuisine. The town is situated at an altitude of 10 meters and is surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can explore the temples, enjoy the local cuisine, and visit the Sri Krishna Temple, which is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and sculptures. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Toulouse)
7. Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 45 km from Dharmasthala, is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 300 sq. km and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy trekking, wildlife spotting, and photography at the sanctuary.
Table: Distance and Time Taken from Dharmasthala to Nearby Places
| Place | Distance (km) | Time Taken (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Kudremukh National Park | 95 | 3 hours |
| Agumbe | 65 | 2 hours |
| Horanadu | 100 | 3 hours |
| Karkala | 35 | 1 hour |
| Mangalore | 75 | 2 hours |
| Udupi | 60 | 1.5 hours |
| Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary | 45 | 1.5 hours |
These are some of the popular places to visit near Dharmasthala, Karnataka. Visitors can explore the natural beauty, wildlife, temples, and cuisine of these places. It is recommended to plan the visit in advance and check the local weather and road conditions before starting the journey.
In conclusion, Dharmasthala, a small temple town in the Karnataka state of India, is surrounded by a number of captivating places that are definitely worth a visit. From the breathtaking views of the Kudremukh National Park to the serene atmosphere of the Sri Rama Kshetra, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The ancient temples, mesmerizing waterfalls, and lush green forests all add to the charm of this area, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and pilgrims alike.
The Manjusha Museum, with its rare and exquisite collection of artifacts, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The Karkala Gommateshwara Statue, one of the largest monolithic statues of Bhagavan Bahubali, is an awe-inspiring sight that showcases the architectural prowess of the bygone era. The Kudremukh Trek, with its challenging terrains and scenic landscapes, is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts looking for an adrenaline rush.
The Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, with its rich biodiversity, is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. The Barkana Falls, one of the ten highest waterfalls in Karnataka, is a sight to behold and a perfect spot for a picnic. The Sri Rama Kshetra, with its serene atmosphere and divine energy, is an ideal place for pilgrims seeking spiritual solace.
In summary, Dharmasthala is not just a temple town but a destination that offers a wide range of experiences for all types of travelers. So, if you are planning a trip to Karnataka, make sure to include Dharmasthala and its surrounding places in your itinerary. You are guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to Places to Visit Near Dharmasthala, Karnataka
1. What are the must-visit temples near Dharmasthala, Karnataka?
Dharmasthala is a temple town and is home to the famous Manjunatha Temple. However, if you are looking for temples nearby, you may consider visiting the Kukke Subramanya Temple, which is 60 km away, and the Sri Rama Temple in Karkala, which is 37 km from Dharmasthala. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Lake Michigan)
2. Are there any waterfalls near Dharmasthala, Karnataka?
Yes, there are several waterfalls near Dharmasthala. The most popular one is the Jog Falls, which is approximately 130 km away. Other waterfalls include the Kudumari Waterfalls (60 km), the Varahi Falls (75 km), and the Barkana Falls (110 km).
3. What are the popular trekking spots near Dharmasthala, Karnataka?
If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can explore the trekking spots near Dharmasthala. The Kudremukh National Park (110 km) and the Agumbe Ghats (100 km) are popular trekking destinations. The Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary (60 km) is another spot where you can enjoy nature and wildlife.
4. Are there any historical places to visit near Dharmasthala, Karnataka?
Yes, there are several historical places near Dharmasthala. The Chandragutti Fort (50 km) and the St. Lawrence Shrine in Attur (35 km) are popular historical sites. You can also visit the Venur (25 km) and the Moodabidri (35 km) temples, which are famous for their historical significance and architectural beauty.
5. What are the best picnic spots near Dharmasthala, Karnataka?
If you are looking for a peaceful and scenic spot for a picnic, you can consider the Kudroli Lake (10 km), which is surrounded by lush greenery. The Kudremukh National Park (110 km) and the Agumbe Ghats (100 km) are also great options for a day out with family and friends.
