6 Least Explored Yet Beautiful Places In Karnataka

When one thinks of Karnataka, many images come flooding into our mind such as the bustling metropolis, coffee plantations, and temples. Yet there is another side to Karnataka that has been untouched and unexplored. These unexplored places in Karnataka are not necessarily remote or hidden but rather have remained unexplored due to the fact that only a few know about their existence.

If you too want to explore the natural wilderness of Karnataka and are looking forward to tread the road less travelled, you have landed at the right place. From architectural marvels to inexplicable mysteries, we have handpicked a few hidden gems of Karnataka that steer clear of the regular travel packages, for you to discover something completely new.

# St Mary’s Island

Not only known for being beautiful but also for having historical significance, St Mary’s Island, located along the coast of Malpe in Udupi district is one of the hidden gems of Karnataka. A well-kept secret, it had been declared in 2001 as one of the 26 Geological Monuments of India by the Geological Survey of India. Legend has it that during Vasco da Gama’s journey from Portugal, he had first landed on one of these islands, fixed a cross, and as a dedication to Mother Mary, named it as O Padrão de Santa Maria. Another interesting fact about this place is that around 88 million years ago when Madagascar was still attached to India, the basalt on the islands was formed by sub-aerial subvolcanic activity.

# Shettihalli Church

Also known as The Floating Church and The Submerged Church, Shettihalli Church situated in the town of Shettihalli is one of the underrated tourist places in Karnataka built by the French missionaries in the 1800s. A magnificent example of Gothic architecture in India, it is an ideal place for history buffs. An abandoned site after the construction of the Hemavathi Dam in 1960s, the church is partially submerged in water during monsoons. Although the roof of this enchanting church has collapsed, the remnants of its architectural beauty make it look hauntingly beautiful. To fully appreciate its surreal beauty, one can enjoy the great view of this place through a boat ride.

# Netrani Island

Located in Murudeshwar, Netrani Island is one among the various unexplored places in Karnataka. Famous for diving/snorkelling, the heart-shaped island is known as Netragudo Island and Pigeon Island. With silvery sand and the Western Ghats as a backdrop, the island is accessible by a thrilling boat ride of 70-90 minutes. Known for its overwhelming experience of the underwater world, many varieties of aquatic species such as stonefish, black tip sharks, turtles, stingrays etc can be seen here. Certified divers of all experience levels can even try Scuba Diving here with the prices starting from INR 5,000.

# Honnemaradu

Situated at the backwaters of Sharavathi river, Honnemaradu is a small village nestled in the majestic stretch of forests in the Western Ghats. Overlooking the Linganamakki Reservoir, the village has a small island that attracts campers. Well sought after by trekkers, its picturesque landscapes also provide fantastic bird watching opportunities. You can spend hours watching and identifying a variety of butterflies and birds. The very essence of this lesser-known place in Karnataka is such wherein nature itself is in love with it. Permitted only with a guide, one can even indulge in water sports activities such as kayaking and boating.

# Bandaje Falls

Located in the Charmadi Ghat section of the Western Ghats in the Belthangady taluk of Dakshina Kannada district, Bandaje Falls is one of the hidden gems in Karnataka. An offbeat place in Karnataka, the gushing milky white waterfall makes for a marvellous sight. A great way to enjoy the refreshing scenery of this area is through a hike. Surrounded by serene natural beauty, you will have to trek through the grasslands and dense forests to reach the fall.

# Maravanthe Beach

Separated by the river Souparnika on one side and the Arabian Sea on other, Maravanthe is one of the most beautiful beaches and secret destinations in Karnataka. The temple situated along the shoreline is home to three principal deities—Vishnu, Narasimha, and Varaha. The magnificent backdrop of the Kodachadri Hills makes this a picturesque beach. One can take a drive along the beach through NH 17 to experience the serenity of this picturesque virgin beach. For a small fee, you can also accompany the fishermen at the nearby Gangoli port on fishing expeditions.