The degradation of tourist spots in India is a concern shared by many. India is blessed with an incredible array of cultural, historical, and natural treasures, but some of these are deteriorating due to various reasons. Here are some factors contributing to this issue:
1. Lack of Awareness
Many people are unaware of the importance of preserving these sites.
Casual littering, defacement, and irresponsible behavior often stem from ignorance about the impact on the environment and heritage.
2. Overcrowding
Popular destinations like Goa, Manali, and Jaipur attract massive crowds, especially during peak seasons.
The sheer number of visitors puts immense pressure on the infrastructure, leading to waste management problems and environmental damage.
3. Poor Waste Management
Insufficient garbage disposal systems often lead to littering in scenic areas.
Plastic waste, food wrappers, and non-biodegradable materials end up polluting the environment.
4. Lack of Enforcement
Rules and regulations meant to protect tourist spots are often poorly enforced.
Unauthorized activities like graffiti on monuments, illegal constructions, or misuse of natural resources continue unchecked.
5. Commercial Exploitation
Over-commercialization leads to unregulated construction of hotels, shops, and restaurants near tourist spots.
This disrupts the natural or cultural balance of the area.
6. Neglect of Cultural Heritage
Many historical sites face deterioration due to a lack of regular maintenance.
Funds allocated for preservation are sometimes mismanaged or insufficient.
7. Disrespect for Local Ecosystems
Activities like cutting down trees, polluting water bodies, and encroaching on wildlife habitats harm the natural beauty of tourist destinations.
How Can We Address This?
Awareness Campaigns: Educating locals and tourists about the importance of preserving these sites.
Stricter Regulations: Enforcing laws against littering, vandalism, and illegal activities.
Improved Infrastructure: Setting up adequate waste management systems and eco-friendly facilities.
Community Involvement: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts and tourism management.
Sustainable Tourism Practices: Promoting eco-tourism and limiting visitor numbers to prevent overuse.
By working together—government authorities, local communities, and tourists—we can ensure that India’s incredible tourist spots remain beautiful and accessible for generations to come.
Dharmasthala, nestled in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, is one of the most unique spiritual destinations in India. It offers a harmonious blend of different faiths, historical richness, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal spot for spiritual seekers and travelers alike. Here’s a glimpse into the magic of Dharmasthala and why it should be on your travel list:
1. Temple of Lord Manjunatha
At the heart of Dharmasthala lies the Shri Manjunatha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Manjunatha. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, where devotees can seek blessings and experience peace. What makes this temple unique is its inclusivity — although managed by a Jain family, the rituals performed are based on Hindu traditions, showcasing religious harmony.
2. Rituals and Piety
Dharmasthala stands out for its deep spiritual practices. Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple daily, participating in rituals, including the popular Annadanam (mass feeding). The temple serves free meals to devotees, symbolizing the value of service and generosity. The spiritual atmosphere here encourages introspection, reflection, and a deeper connection to one’s faith.
3. Bahubali Statue
A major attraction in Dharmasthala is the Bahubali Gomateshwara Statue, a towering 39-foot monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, an important figure in Jainism. Located on a hillock, the statue overlooks the surrounding landscape and offers a serene spot for meditation. The climb to this sacred statue rewards you with a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and the Netravati River.
4. Cultural Legacy
Dharmasthala is not just a place of worship but also a center for cultural and educational activities. The Manjusha Museum showcases an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including temple chariots, antique manuscripts, and paintings, offering a glimpse into the region’s historical legacy. The Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) is another example of the temple’s commitment to social upliftment, focusing on rural development, education, and healthcare.
5. Religious Harmony
One of the most inspiring aspects of Dharmasthala is its embodiment of religious harmony. The temple trustees are from the Jain community, but the deities and rituals are Hindu, while the charitable acts encompass people of all religions. This inclusiveness makes Dharmasthala a powerful symbol of unity and spiritual tolerance.
6. Scenic Beauty and Calm
Surrounded by hills and rivers, Dharmasthala offers more than just spiritual enrichment. The area’s natural beauty makes it a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it’s taking a walk along the riverbanks or exploring the verdant landscape, Dharmasthala is a place where nature and spirituality go hand in hand.
7. Festivals and Celebrations
Dharmasthala hosts several important religious festivals, including Laksha Deepotsava, where the temple is lit with thousands of lamps. The festival is a grand celebration of light, signifying the triumph of good over evil. Another important event is the Maha Nadavali, an annual fair that attracts devotees from across the region.
How to Reach Dharmasthala:
By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, around 65 km away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Mangalore Junction, from where buses and taxis are available.
By Road: Dharmasthala is well-connected by road, with regular bus services from Mangalore, Bangalore, and other nearby cities.
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal time to visit Dharmasthala is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for both spiritual activities and sightseeing.
Dharmasthala is not just a destination for religious rituals but a place where faith, service, and serenity come together. Whether you are seeking a spiritual escape, cultural immersion, or just a peaceful retreat amidst nature, Dharmasthala offers an experience like no other in Karnataka.
India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant communities, offers many opportunities for responsible tourism. To achieve Responsible tourism in India, one should be educated and need to educate others in following certain positive ethics. For example Indian Government’s initiative Swachh Bharat Mission did not turn out so well as expected and its impact is directly responsible for the tourism industry. To achieve Responsible tourism practices in India, this has to be a collective practice from all the departments.
Traveling offers a much-needed respite from our daily routines, allowing us to recharge and rejuvenate. However, it’s important to remember that our journeys can also create a positive impact on the destinations we explore. Even with limited time, there are numerous ways to contribute to local communities and leave a lasting impression. Here are some specific tips and practices for being a responsible tourist in India:
1. Respect Cultural and Religious Practices
Dress Modestly: In temples, mosques, and rural areas, ensure your attire is respectful. Cover your shoulders and knees.
Remove Shoes: Before entering religious sites or homes, always remove your shoes.
Seek Permission: Ask before taking photos of people, particularly in rural or sensitive areas.
2. Environmental Responsibility
Avoid Plastics: Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid using plastic bags. Many places in India have banned single-use plastics.
Eco-Friendly Transportation: Use public transport, rickshaws, or rent bicycles where possible. Walking is also a great way to explore local areas.
Respect Natural Sites: Do not litter in natural parks, beaches, or other natural attractions. Stick to designated paths and areas.
3. Support Local Communities
Buy Local: Purchase handicrafts, textiles, and other products directly from local artisans or cooperatives.
Eat Local: Dine at locally-owned restaurants and try regional cuisines. Street food is an integral part of the culinary experience, but choose vendors that follow good hygiene practices.
Stay Local: Choose homestays, guesthouses, or locally-owned hotels rather than international chains.
4. Minimize Carbon Footprint
Conserve Resources: Be mindful of your water and electricity use, as many areas face shortages. Take shorter showers and turn off lights and AC when not in use.
Offset Emissions: Consider using carbon offset programs to compensate for the carbon footprint of your travel.
5. Engage Respectfully with Communities
Learn Local Etiquette: Understanding social norms, such as greeting people with a “Namaste” and respecting personal space, can go a long way.
Volunteer Ethically: If volunteering, choose reputable organizations that truly benefit the local community, rather than those that may exploit local people or resources.
6. Wildlife and Nature Conservation
Responsible Wildlife Tourism: Only visit wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that prioritize animal welfare and conservation. Avoid attractions that exploit animals, like elephant rides or dancing bears.
Respect Protected Areas: Follow guidelines and regulations in national parks and reserves. Do not disturb wildlife and keep a safe distance.
7. Health and Safety
Stay Informed: Stay updated on health advisories and vaccinations required for travel in India. Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne diseases.
COVID-19 Precautions: Follow local guidelines regarding mask-wearing, social distancing, and sanitization to protect yourself and others.
8. Ethical Practices
Fair Pricing: While bargaining is common, do so fairly and without devaluing the worth of the goods or services.
Responsible Photography: Be mindful of the impact of your photography on local people and environments. Avoid intrusive or exploitative photos.
By adhering to these principles, you can contribute to sustainable and responsible tourism in India, ensuring that your visit has a positive impact on the local environment, economy, and communities.
The money is just the start of tourism’s impact. Think about the supply chain to each restaurant, hotel, and tour, and the numbers notch up significantly. Tourism impacts the globe, mostly in a good way—but not always.
Why is Responsible Tourism Important?
The litany of tourism related issues change by each region and country. Here are some of the downsides to tourism:
Tourism demands can stress local resources, taking food, housing, or land away from the locals.
Tourism may stress vulnerable animal habitats and encourage the poaching of wild animals for tourist consumption.
Air travel is a major pollutant.
Tourism commodifies some cultures and people by creating living zoos in places like hill tribe villages and slums.
Tourists can offend locals by not conforming to dress codes or culturally appropriate behaviors.
Positives to Socially Responsible Tourism
These include just a few of the many ways tourism can be used as a force for good:
Tourism has the power to be the greatest redistribution of wealth from the developed to the developing world.
Tourism can infuse cash and economic buying power directly into the hands of locals.
Tourism can encourage locals to defend their wildlife and put an end to poaching.
Tourism can model practices like effective trash and waste management.
Tourism can create meaningful, deep cultural interactions between tourists and locals.
Tourism can engender deeper humanity on both sides, generating compassion and empathy for those we don’t understand.
Me Riya Sharma and our 5 family were looking for a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. We wanted to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature, and enjoy some quality time together. We decided to book a stay at Mekanagadde Homestay after Googling and finalized it, a cozy and comfortable place nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
We arrived at the homestay after a scenic drive through the lush green hills and paddy fields. We were greeted by the friendly hosts, who welcomed us with a warm smile and a refreshing fruit drink🍹. The hosts showed us around the property, which had a rustic charm and a homely vibe🏠. The rooms were spacious and clean, with all the amenities we needed. The homestay also had a common area where we all could talk, play games, or read books.
The next day, we woke up to the sound of birds chirping and the foggy hills surrounding property. We had a delicious breakfast of traditional dishes, Akki Rotti and Kesa. We then decided to go for a trekking adventure, guided by Vinay one of the localite who take care of the guest. We explored the nearby forest, where we saw various flora and fauna, and enjoyed the panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. We also visited a water stream gushing, where we splashed in the cool water and took some pictures.
After the trekking, we returned to the homestay for a relaxing lunch🍲. We then went for a coffee plantation tour on jeep, where we learned about the history and culture of coffee growing in the region. We also used to get filter coffee when we asked for, which was aromatic and flavorful. We bought some coffee beans as souvenirs for our other friends and family.
In the evening, we enjoyed a bonfire and barbecue at the homestay. We roasted chicken, sang songs, and chattered stories circling bonfire with family. We also had a mouthwatering dinner of local Malnad style🍛, cooked by the hosts. We thanked them for their hospitality and praised their food.
We retired to our rooms, feeling happy and content. We slept soundly, dreaming of our wonderful trip. We woke up the next day, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. We packed our bags and bid farewell to the hosts and little dogs😊 (accompanied us everywhere). We thanked them for our memorable stay and promised to come back again.
We drove back to the city, feeling grateful for our family trip to Mekanagadde Homestay. We had experienced nature, adventure, culture, and food in a unique way. We had also bonded with our family more and had plans for next holiday trip. We agreed that it was one of our best trips ever.
If you are a coffee lover, you might have heard of the coffee blossom, the delicate white flower that blooms on the coffee plant before it produces the beans. But have you ever experienced the coffee blossom in person? In this blog post, I will share with you my coffee blossom experience and why it was one of the most memorable moments of my life.
I visited a coffee plantation homestay in Chikmagalur last year, during the peak of the coffee blossom season. The farm was located in a mountainous region, surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. As I arrived at the farm, I was greeted by the owner, who invited me to join him for a tour. He explained to me that the coffee blossom only lasts for a few days, and that it is a very special time for the coffee farmers. He said that the coffee blossom is a sign of hope and prosperity, as it indicates that the coffee plant is healthy and ready to produce high-quality beans.
As we walked around the farm, I was amazed by the sight of thousands of coffee blossoms covering the plants. They looked like tiny stars in a sea of green, and they emitted a sweet and fragrant aroma that filled the air. I felt like I was in a fairy tale, surrounded by beauty and magic. The owner told me that the coffee blossom is also edible, and that some people like to make tea or honey with it. He offered me a taste of his homemade coffee blossom honey, which he said was his secret ingredient for his coffee. I accepted his offer and tried a spoonful of the honey. It was delicious, with a floral and fruity flavor that complemented the coffee perfectly.
I thanked him for his hospitality and asked him if I could take some pictures of the coffee blossoms. He agreed and said that he was happy to share his passion with me. He also gave me a small bouquet of coffee blossoms as a souvenir, which I gladly accepted. I took out my camera and started to capture the beauty of the coffee blossom experience. I felt a sense of joy and gratitude, as I realized how lucky I was to witness this natural wonder.
The coffee blossom experience was one of the highlights of my trip to Chikmagalur, and one of the best experiences of my life. It made me appreciate the hard work and dedication of the coffee farmers, and the amazing diversity and richness of nature. It also made me enjoy my coffee even more, knowing that behind every cup there is a story of hope and love.
Mudigere is a small town in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, India. It is known for its scenic beauty, lush green hills, coffee plantations and temples. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, Mudigere is a perfect destination for you. Here are some of the places to visit in Mudigere that will make your trip memorable.
Ettina Bhuja: Ettina Bhuja is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers, as it offers scenic views of the surrounding valleys and forests. The trek to the peak is moderate and takes about 3 to 4 hours from the base camp at Shishila village. The best time to visit Ettina Bhuja is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is green.
Pandavar Gudda: Pandavar Gudda is a scenic hills near Mekanagadde village in Chikmagalur, Karnataka. It is famous for its ancient rock formations and temples. Small trek place to experience sunset and sunrise with mist According to legend, the Pandavas of Mahabharata stayed here during their exile. The place offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and forests. Pandavar Gudda is a popular destination for nature lovers and pilgrims.
Devaramane Hills: Devaramane Hills are one of the highest peaks in Mudigere, offering a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. The hills are also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids, butterflies and birds. You can trek to the top of the hills or enjoy a jeep ride through the winding roads. Devaramane Hills are ideal for nature lovers, photographers and adventure seekers.
Bettada Byraveshwara Temple: Bettada Byraveshwara Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on a hilltop near Mudigere. The temple is believed to be more than 600 years old and has a unique architecture with stone carvings and sculptures. The temple also offers a splendid view of the surrounding valleys and hills. You can visit the temple during the annual festival of Shivaratri, which attracts thousands of devotees from nearby villages.
Devarunda Prasanna Rameshwara Temple: Devarunda Prasanna Rameshwara Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Karnataka, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and dates back to the 12th century CE. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple is also a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Shiva.
Vasanthika Temple: Vasanthika Temple is a historic site located in Angadi, a village in Mudigere, Chikmagalur. It is believed to be one of the oldest temples of the Hoysala dynasty, dating back to the 10th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricate carvings and sculptures that showcase the artistic excellence of the Hoysala era.
Kottigehara: Kottigehara is a small village in Mudigere, where two rivers, Hemavathi and Yagachi, meet. The confluence of the rivers creates a beautiful sight and a serene atmosphere. You can also visit the nearby attractions such as Manjehalli Waterfalls, which is a cascading waterfall surrounded by greenery, and Balur Estate, which is a heritage coffee plantation with colonial-style bungalows.
Hornadu Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple: Hornadu Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the goddess of food and nourishment. It is located in Hornadu, a village in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, India. The temple is famous for its annadanam, or free meals offered to all visitors, regardless of their religion or caste. The temple also has a beautiful idol of Annapoorneshwari, made of gold and silver, which is said to change its expression according to the time of the day.
Ballalarayana Durga: Ballalarayana Durga is a historical fort located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, India. It was built by the Hoysala rulers in the 12th century and later captured by the Keladi Nayakas. The fort is situated on a hilltop at an altitude of 1509 meters and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The fort is now in ruins and can be reached by a trek through dense forests and grasslands.
Charmadi Ghat: Charmadi Ghat is a mountain pass that connects Mudigere with Dakshina Kannada district. It is one of the most scenic routes in Karnataka, with 12 hairpin bends and stunning views of the valleys, forests and waterfalls. The ghat is also a biodiversity hotspot, with many endemic and endangered species of plants and animals. You can drive through the ghat or take a bus ride from Mudigere to Mangalore or Udupi.
Kalasa: Kalasa is a temple town in Mudigere, famous for its Kalaseshwara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated on the banks of Bhadra River and has a legend associated with it. According to the legend, Lord Shiva blessed Sage Agastya with a pot (kalasa) of sacred water from all the holy rivers in India, which he poured on this spot to create the Bhadra River. The temple also has a huge copper pot (kalasa) on its roof, which is filled with water during festivals and auspicious occasions.
Kelagur Tea Estate: Kelagur Tea Estate is a family-owned plantation in the Western Ghats of India. It produces high-quality organic teas that are exported to various countries. The estate has a rich history and a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The scenic drive is beautiful on the way to Hornadu and Kalasa.
Kudremukh: Kudremukh is a mountain range and a national park in Chikmagalur. It is known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. The name Kudremukh means “horse face” in Kannada, as one of the peaks resembles a horse’s face. Kudremukh trek is a popular adventure activity . It offers scenic views of lush green hills, waterfalls and streams. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 6 hours to complete. The best time to visit is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and the trails are less muddy.
These are some of the places to visit in Mudigere that will make your trip worthwhile. You can also explore other nearby places such as Belur, Halebidu, Horanadu and Sringeri, which are known for their historical and cultural significance. Mudigere is a hidden gem in Karnataka that will enchant you with its natural beauty and charm.
An easy trek which any age group can do (except the final climb). Trek distance 2.5 kms / 2300 steps one side. Trek time – 45mins (personal experience). No prior permission required as of now, just parking charges for the vehicle to be paid.
We reached the base at around 9.30am. Google maps are accurate. Just search for Nanya Byraveshwara temple as said at homestay and drive. The homestay provides guide but we wanted to go ourselves to explore our own. The final 2 kms, the roads are bit bad as it’s a wildlife area, so drive / ride carefully. We parked our two cars, spoke to shop vendor nearby and took some information on the forest area and the peak and started our trek.
I’ll divide this trek into 3 phase.
Phase 1 – The wide trail with birds chirping
The trail which starts from the left side of the parking lot which is wide enough to know it. You can hear a lot of birds chirping if started early morning. After a distance of about 1 km, you come to an open land where the peak can be seen even clearer as shown in the picture.
Ettina Bhuja view on trekking
Phase 2 – Darker or serene
This trail is narrow and the trees have grown huge enough to make the path go dark but not completely. You can hear water gushing through the forest too. The good thing about this trek is that there isn’t any other paths which might be confusing to find the correct route. It’s just one single way.
After walking through little ascend and descend about 1 km you reach a point where you need to turn about 75° to right and that’s where the final stretch starts.
You have almost completed the trek if you aren’t hiking the last bit of it. This stretch is far more beautiful than the summit. The small flowers with grass all over the place and that huge rock standing tall, energizes everything.
Phase 3 – Rock climbing
Good hiking shoes are recommended for final climb. Few boulders are big enough and need proper grip to climb. When you climb the summit, you can see water falling through the mountains at several places, only if the valley is clear from fog.
Spent about good 45 mins on the peak, emersed into the clouds and the sound of the water and mild sunlight hitting the face whenever the Fog cleared. Thankfully there wasn’t anyone around on the peak.
Started our descend, took 30 mins to reach the base. That was easy-peasy to get down.
Now, we had already decided that we can go to Bettada Bhairaveshwara Temple if it doesn’t rain. We were lucky that there wasn’t any indication of rain and we started to our next destination which is 2 kms away from Mekanagadde Homestay and 8.5 kms from Ettina Bujha our current destination.
Bettada Bhairaveshwara Temple
The drive was amazing as the roads were quite narrow and through the forest. And since it’s a village and forest area, the roads leading to Bettada Bhairaveshwara Temple has concrete road from the base and final some 500 meter there isn’t any tar, it’s just gravel so we decided to park our vehicles next to temple. So the path leading to Pandavar Betta is kinda off-roading experience if taking the bike or the jeep.
Reached the place, a small trek leads to the step 1 of Pandavar Betta and went around strolling a bit and left the place with peace at mind. One can go to next step if there is no dense fog around
We could see a wild boar while we were heading back to homestay. Wasn’t quick enough to capture a picture of it.
Overall, our trip from Saturday to Monday was good. Thankful to the hospitality provided at Mekanagadde Chikmagalur homestay. This place is amazing for its location in the midest of village and surrounding forests. This is the best homestay to experience trekking to Ettina Bhuja and looking for a comfortable and relaxed stay.
Hoping to spend as many days I can on the mountains.
Chikmagalur is a city and a hill station located about 250 km away from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. Situated in the suburbs of Western Ghats, the city allures many tourists all over the state for its good climatic conditions, coffee estates, farms and many more landscapes. While staying at a homestay in Chikmagalur one can relish the best malnad food in chikmagalur depending upon the season.
Prominently known as the malnad region, Chikmagalur is famous for its authentic mouthwatering delicacies, an exquisite treat for taste buds. The malnad food is exceptionally renowned for its local fruits and vegetables available throughout Western Ghats’ thick forests. A few of the essential dishes of Chikmagalur are Akki Roti, Kalule (Tender Bamboo Stems), Alubu (Natural Mushrooms), and Kesa (Colocasia Leaves), Gaddhe Yedi (Soft Shell Crabs), Gaddhe Meenu (tiny fishes), Kadubu, Menthe Muddhe etc. Let’s look into the details of the top 3 cuisines of Malnad:
Akki Roti:
Akki Roti is one of the critical dishes of each household of Chikmagalur. Every morning breakfast starts with the aroma of Akki Roti straight from the kitchen, which is a unique breakfast compared to other regions. The main component of Akki Roti is Rice and Rice Flour. It is unnecessary to cook a bowl of fresh rice to make the roti as it is prepared with the previous night or leftover rice from our lunch/dinner menu. The recipe goes as follows:
Take the leftover rice or fresh rice in a mixing bowl and add a good amount of salt, rice flour and water.
Mix it well, making it into a consistency of the dough and take a ball sized dough to make the roti.
Flatten the roti dough balls in the form of a chapati (Generally, there are roti making machines available in the market to make roti).
Cook the flattened roti on the Tawa on either side and cook directly on the stove flame until the roti is fluffed and suitable to eat.
Kalule (Tender Bamboo Stems):
During the monsoon season, Kalule (Tender Bamboo Shoots), is a dish that is a must for all people in malnad. It is a seasonal delicacy that is grown in forests and along riversides. During the monsoon season, the first rains influence the bamboos to protect the tender shoots collected before it turns hard. The hard outer covering is pealed until we get the soft mushy pale coloured bamboo shoot. The bamboo shoots are cut into slices and soaked in water for about 48 hours. It eliminates all the toxins and acids that the node contains. The dripping water needs to be changed within 24 hours, allowing the bamboo to ferment a bit, giving a tangy taste. The recipe goes like this:
Wash the soaked bamboo thoroughly and remove any retained water.
Add tadka with mustard, curry leaves, garlic cloves, and add the sliced bamboos to the pan.
Add prominent spices like chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder and sesame seeds.
Mix everything well till the spices blend nicely with the bamboo shoots.
Note: Akki Roti is best eaten hot with a pinch of melted ghee.
Kesa (Colocasia Leaves):
Kesa (Colocasia Leaves) are one of the authentic delicacies of malnad food, with a medicinal significance with rich iron content. These leaves are grown in wetlands. Sometimes few leaves are not suitable for consumption as they might contain a few harmful toxins. But the experts quickly detect the leaves if good enough for consumption. In a few parts of Chikmagalur, this dish is cooked by tying a knot with the leaves, and a few people make curry out of it by chopping it into pieces precisely like spinach. The method of preparation is as follows:
Wash the Kesa leaves and knot them or chop them into fine pieces.
Add tadka with mustard, garlic cloves, green chilli, and chopped/knotted Kesa leaves in the pan.
Add the required amount of salt, chilli powder, and coriander powder with a good lime juice. (coconut can be ground and added if needed)
Cook until the medium consistency is retained.
NOTE: Tastes fantastic when served with Akki Roti and can be had with freshly cooked hot rice.
Love travelling but can’t stay away from your pet? We get you! While planning a trip, pet-owners often have to worry about leaving their pets behind with someone who’ll take good care of them. But what if you could just travel along with your ‘Good Boy’ and enjoy an awesome vacation together? While it’s difficult to hunt for a reasonably priced pet-friendly accommodation in Karnataka, here is a fabulous place that welcome pets with all their heart!
Mekanagadde Homestay
Need a detox from the chaotic city life? Come unwind amidst lush green forests and fields at Mekanagadde Homestay in Chikmagalur! This heritage bungalow stay in Chikmagalur is 25 km away from the Mudigere city center and is located around the Western Ghats range. You can stay at their beautifully built guest house cottage. Enjoy a great variety of authentic Malnad cuisine, with dishes like, Akki Rotti, veg/no-veg biriyani, kadabu with chicken curry, Shavige, Spicy Chicken dry, payasa, and lots more! This cottage stay also features a play area, family rooms, and barbeque facilities. If you’re travelling with a big dog, this spacious pet-friendly accommodation is a superb choice as bigger dogs can easily move around the green fields without feeling constrained in a small space.
While you can rent a jeep for safari or go for guided tours, treks and bird watching, there’s abundant space for your pet to play around and join you on your adventure pursuits. So, just take off to Chikmagalur with your little friend, relax amidst the breathtaking scenery and share an Instagram story! Trust us, you won’t need any filters!
Chikmagalur is the trending destination in the South India. Chikmagalur is already well known for its beauty of nature with words cannot describe. Many tourists flow from many parts of India, mainly from the Bangalore for the weekend trips. People from Chennai, Kerala, Mumbai and Delhi are some of the frequent travelers to Chikmagalur. Coffee plantations is one more attraction to tourists to get around and walk inside deep plantations, taking pictures. As the people started getting in to Chikmagalur, it was easy for the homestay owners to convert their posh, heritage, lovely homes to a homestay. Many Chikmagalur homestay commonly have a beautiful garden, hill top houses, roof top tails, a small family having a commendable experience to handle guests heartily.
Chikmagalur is a 5 hours drive from Bangalore at about 250 Kms. The NH roads gives the driver a power boost to reach quickly. We recommend the guests to book a homestay prior one week. Finding homestay after reaching Chikmagalur is not recommended since you may not find the best homely stay and food. Chikmagalur homestays provide Malnad tasty foods. Here are some of the interesting things to do in Chikmagalur.
Things to do in Chikmagalur
Trekking
Trekking tests your body fitness when you walk in the hills and jungles on uneven surfaces. While trekking you sweat in the cool winter too and helps to clean the skin pores naturally. Trekking is good for all age groups from children at 8 years to adults till 60 years. Best trekking spots coming from South region in Chikmagalur are Devaramane, Ettina Bhuja, Ballarayanadurga, Mullayanagiri, Kemmanagundi etc. After doing trekking your body feels light and stress free.
Sightseeing
Apart from doing trekking travelers can go sightseeing on top of the hills to touch the sky. Morning or evening sightseeing is the best time to notice sunrise and sunset. This will be tremendously awesome moments watching sun and gazing at it. Some of the best sightseeing places coming from South Chikmagalur are Pandavar Gudda, Devaramane, Kelagur Tea Estate, Kudremukha, Mullayanagiri.
Photography
Neelakurinji flower at Devaramane, Mudigere, Chikmagalur
Capture your precious moments with family and friends. Now a days camera phones have improved a lot in better clarity pictures, hence this should do well in normal photography. Professional photographers can use wide angle lens or zoom lens to click far away objects. Photography varies on personnel interests like nature/landscape photography, wildlife photography, portraits, travel photography, macro photography etc. Normal phone camera photographers need not to worry, you can also do better photography with latest phones.
Bird Watching
Listen to the chirping noise of birds when in a homestay. You can notice the innocence of nature through these birds communications. Normally morning times you can definitely here Grey Jungle Fowl birds sound, a unique sound which everyone loves to hear. Improve you knowledge by identifying birds around you with the help of local people. It is difficult to capture photos but pro photographers can do very well.
Waterfalls
There are some good waterfalls in Chikmagalur like Bandaje Arbi waterfalls, Ghatikallu Waterfalls, Hanumana Gundi Falls, Kalahatti Falls, Ukkada/Jagra Falls, Hebbe Waterfalls, Manikyadhara Falls. There are soo many other unnamed waterfalls in private properties that can be checked with the homestay/resort managers. Not only waterfalls but cool rivers can serve your purpose of playing in waters. The famous rivers around chikmagalur are Hemavathi River, Tunga and Bhadra River.
Off Beat Jeep Drive
Youngster and even men and women loves to go off beat to jungles and valleys on jeep. Ask your homestay or resort owners to take them away for ride on jeep. If they have the facility to organize the off beat jeep drive then its your luck. There will be charges for the jeep ride since driving jeep in rough terrains makes them to be serviced and consumes more fuel due to use of AWD. Never miss the chance, not all people can experience this joyous ride through deep jungle and hills.
Coffee Plantation Walk
Walking around coffee estate gives you a glimpse of how coffee cycle happens. A guide helps in making you understand various processes of coffee and other crops. You can pick fruits in the coffee estate. A walk helps in burning your calories and keeps you relaxed.
Temples
Hoysala rulers were basically from Malnad regions. Hoysala period was an important era in developments of art, architecture and religion. Famous temple Amrutesvara in Amruthapura is a small example of art and architecture. Many temples around Chikmagalur tells the same stories of marking the empire and successful defending of empire. Some of the important historical temples are Bettada Byraveshwara Prasanna Temple, Nanyada Byraveshwara Temple, Deviramma Temple.
Places to visit Near Chikmagalur
1. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: (Muthodi)
38 kms. North West, this sanctuary is a must for wild life enthusiasts.
Gaur, Chital, Sambar, Elephants and Tiger are some of the wild life
found here.
2. Kemmangundi: 55 kms. North of
Chikmagalur, this is as scenic hill station, situated on the Bababudan
range at a height of 1432 mtr. 8 kms. From Kemmangundi are the Hebbe
falls where the water gushes down form a height of 168 stages. The
Kalahatti falls are 10 kms, from Kemmangundi. The water here cascades
down a height of 122 mtrs. There is also a local temple here.
3. Kudremukh: 95 kms. South West of Chikmagalur is the secluded hill station of Kudremukh situated 1894 mtrs. above sea level. The Kudremukh hill overlooks the Arabian sea and are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. There is rich flora and fauna here, waiting to be discovered, Caves asking to be explored, Ruins and traces of an old civilization inviting a study. Lovely unspoiled places to camp – can trekker resist Kudremukh? This place is also rich in iron-ore deposits.
4. Amruthapura: About 10 kms. from Tarikere, this little town has an 800 year old temple dedicated to Amrutheshwara.
5. Sringeri: Is
a pilgrim center, known for its Vidyashankara temple. It has 12 zodiac
pillars on each of which the sun rays fall accordingly to the time of
the year.
Weather
The climate is ideal for tourists throughout the year. The weather range from 14 degree to 30 degree. In high rainfall areas like Mudigere one can expect a different world like agumbe. During rainy season you can enjoy rain. Except rainy season, all the coffee planters will be busy with the coffee estate works so you can get know the process of coffee plantation. Basically you have to ask questions with the hosts to learn things and know the rural life of Malnad community. Most of the hosts communicate well and be informative, only thing is you should be a good listner.
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