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Discover the Magic of Dharmasthala – A Spiritual Escape in Karnataka
Dharmasthala: A Spiritual Escape in Karnataka
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.
Best homestay for spiritual and nature escape
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October 23, 2024
What is Sustainable Travel
Sustainable travel is a way of exploring the world that respects and protects the environment, the culture, and the people of the places we visit. It is about being aware of the impact of our travel choices and actions, and making decisions that minimize the negative effects and maximize the positive ones. Sustainable travel is not only good for the planet, but also for ourselves, as it can enrich our experiences, broaden our perspectives, and inspire us to care more about our shared home.
Why is Sustainable Travel Important
Travel is one of the most popular and rewarding activities in the world. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), there were 1.5 billion international tourist arrivals in 2019, and this number is expected to grow in the future. However, travel also has a significant impact on the environment and the communities we visit. Some of the negative effects of travel include:
- Greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, especially from flying, which contribute to climate change and its consequences, such as melting glaciers, rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and loss of biodiversity.
- Pollution from waste, noise, and light, which can harm wildlife, ecosystems, and human health.
- Overcrowding and overdevelopment of popular destinations, which can damage natural and cultural heritage sites, degrade landscapes, and reduce the quality of life for local residents.
- Exploitation and inequality of local people, who may not benefit from tourism revenues, face unfair working conditions, lose access to resources, or suffer from cultural erosion or loss of identity.
Sustainable travel aims to address these challenges by promoting responsible and respectful tourism that balances the needs and interests of travelers, hosts, and the environment. By traveling sustainably, we can help preserve the beauty and diversity of our world for ourselves and future generations.
How to Travel Sustainably
There is no one-size-fits-all formula for sustainable travel, as different destinations may have different issues and opportunities. However, there are some general principles and practices that can guide us in making better travel decisions. Here are some examples:
- Choose low-carbon transportation modes whenever possible, such as walking, biking, public transit, or train. If you have to fly, consider offsetting your carbon footprint by supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or enhance carbon sinks.
- Stay in eco-friendly accommodation that uses renewable energy sources, conserves water and resources, recycles waste, supports local communities, and protects natural habitats.
- Support local businesses and social enterprises that provide fair wages and working conditions for their employees, respect human rights and cultural diversity, and contribute to social and environmental causes.
- Respect local customs and traditions, learn some words of the local language, dress appropriately, ask for permission before taking photos or entering sacred places, and avoid buying or consuming products that are illegal or unethical.
- Reduce your waste and consumption by bringing your own reusable items such as water bottles, bags, straws, cutlery, etc., avoiding single-use plastics or disposable items, refusing unnecessary packaging or souvenirs, and buying local and organic products.
- Be mindful of your impact on wildlife and nature by following the principles of leave no trace , avoiding feeding or touching animals, staying on marked trails, and choosing ethical wildlife experiences that do not harm or exploit animals.
- Educate yourself about the destination you are visiting by reading books, articles, or blogs, watching documentaries or videos, or joining tours or workshops that offer authentic and informative insights into the history, culture, and issues of the place.
- Share your stories and experiences with others by writing reviews, blogs, or social media posts, giving feedback to tourism providers, or joining online communities that promote sustainable travel.
Sustainable travel is not a destination but a journey. It is a continuous process of learning, reflecting, and improving our travel practices. By traveling sustainably, we can make a positive difference in the world while enjoying its wonders.
June 23, 2023
Essential Items for Eco-Friendly Travel
If you’re looking for ways to travel more sustainably, one of the things you can do is to pack eco-friendly items that reduce your environmental impact. In this blog post, I’ll share some of the essential items for eco-friendly travel that I always bring with me on my trips.
- A reusable water bottle: This is a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating. A reusable water bottle can save you money and prevent plastic waste from ending up in landfills or oceans. You can choose a water bottle that has a filter, like LifeStraw Go, which can purify water from any source and protect you from harmful bacteria and viruses.
- A bamboo toothbrush: Did you know that every plastic toothbrush you’ve ever used is still somewhere on the planet? That’s because plastic toothbrushes take hundreds of years to decompose. A bamboo toothbrush, on the other hand, is biodegradable and natural. You can also get bamboo toothpaste tablets that come in a glass jar, which are more eco-friendly than plastic tubes.
- A solar charger: If you want to keep your devices powered up without relying on fossil fuels, a solar charger is a great option. You can use it to charge your phone, camera, laptop, or any other gadget that has a USB port. A solar charger is especially useful if you’re travelling to remote areas where electricity is scarce or unreliable.
- A shampoo bar: Another way to reduce your plastic consumption is to switch to a shampoo bar instead of a liquid shampoo. A shampoo bar is a solid block of soap that cleans your hair just as well as a liquid shampoo, but without the plastic bottle. You can also get conditioner bars, body bars, and face bars that are made with natural ingredients and are gentle on your skin.
- A reusable shopping bag: When you’re travelling, you might need to buy some groceries, souvenirs, or other items along the way. Instead of accepting plastic bags from the shops, bring your own reusable shopping bag that you can fold and store in your backpack. You can also use it as a laundry bag or a beach bag.
June 23, 2023
A Memorable Family Trip to Mekanagadde Homestay
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.
– Riya Sharma & Family
Blogger
Bengaluru
May 20, 2023
Best things to do in Sakleshpur
Sakleshpur is a scenic hill station in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. It is known for its lush green coffee plantations, misty mountains, and rich biodiversity. Sakleshpur is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
In this blog post, I will share with you some of the best things to do in Sakleshpur, based on my personal experience of visiting this beautiful place.
1. Trek to Bisle Ghat: Bisle Ghat is one of the most picturesque spots in Sakleshpur, offering stunning views of the valleys and hills. The trek to Bisle Ghat is about 5 km long and takes around 2 hours to complete. The trail passes through dense forests, streams, and waterfalls. You can also spot various birds and animals along the way, such as peacocks, monkeys, deer, and elephants.
2. Visit Manjarabad Fort: Manjarabad Fort is a star-shaped fort built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century. It is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The fort has eight bastions and a central chamber that was used as a magazine. The fort also has a secret tunnel that connects it to another fort in Srirangapatna.
3. Enjoy a homestay: One of the best ways to experience the culture and hospitality of Sakleshpur is to stay in a homestay. There are many homestays in Sakleshpur that offer comfortable accommodation, delicious food, and various activities. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the coffee plantations, interact with the local people, and learn about their traditions and customs.
4. Explore Pandavar Gudda: Pandavar Gudda is close to Mekanagadde village and offers a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset. Pandavar Gudda was the place where the Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata epic, stayed during their exile. Pandavar Gudda offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and attracts many tourists and pilgrims throughout the year.
5. Visit Sakleshpur Temple: Sakleshpur Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the heart of Sakleshpur town and attracts many devotees and tourists. The temple has a unique architecture and features a stone lingam that is believed to be self-manifested. The temple also has a pond that is said to have healing properties.
These are some of the best things to do in Sakleshpur that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable. Sakleshpur is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and offers a refreshing and rejuvenating experience.
May 19, 2023
Things to do Before Going on Vacation
Going on vacation is a great way to relax, have fun, and explore new places. But before you pack your bags and head to the destination, there are some things you need to do to prepare for your trip. Here are some tips on what to do before going on vacation, so you can enjoy your time away without any worries.
Plan your budget and itinerary
One of the first things you need to do before going on vacation is to plan your budget and itinerary. How much money do you want to spend on your trip? What are the main attractions and activities you want to see and do? How will you get around and where will you stay? Having a clear idea of your budget and itinerary will help you avoid overspending, missing out on important sights, or wasting time on transportation.
Book your transportation and accommodation
Once you have your budget and itinerary, you need to book your flights and accommodation. Compare different airlines and travel websites to find the best deals and options for your dates and destination. Make sure to read the reviews, cancellation policies, and terms and conditions before booking anything. Also, don’t forget to print or save your confirmation emails and tickets.
Check your travel documents
Another important thing to do before going on vacation is to check your passport, visa, and travel insurance. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date and has enough blank pages for stamps. If you need a visa for your destination, apply for it well in advance and follow the requirements carefully. Also, get a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other emergencies. Pack smartly and lightly.
Pack smartly and lightly
Packing smartly and lightly is one of the best things you can do before going on vacation. Not only will it save you space, time, and money, but it will also make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. To pack smartly and lightly, follow these steps:
- Make a packing list of the essentials you need for your trip, such as clothes, shoes, toiletries, electronics, documents, etc.
- Check the weather forecast, dress code, and cultural norms of your destination and pack accordingly.
- Choose versatile, wrinkle-resistant, and easy-to-wash items that can be mixed and matched.
- Use packing cubes or bags to organize your items by category and compress them.
- Roll or fold your clothes neatly to prevent wrinkles and save space.
- Pack your heaviest items at the bottom of your suitcase and fill the gaps with smaller items.
- Wear your bulkiest items on the plane to free up space in your luggage.
- Pack a carry-on bag with your essentials, such as passport, wallet, phone, charger, headphones, snacks, water bottle, etc.
Prepare your home for your absence
The last thing you want to do before going on vacation is to prepare your home for your absence. This will ensure that your home is safe, secure, and welcoming when you return. Here are some things you can do to prepare your home for your absence:
- Clean up your house and get rid of any trash or perishable food.
- Unplug any unnecessary appliances and electronics to save energy and prevent fire hazards.
- Adjust your thermostat and water heater to save energy and prevent damage.
- Lock all doors and windows and set up a security system or alarm if you have one.
- Ask a friend or neighbor to check on your house regularly, collect your mail, water your plants, feed your pets, etc.
- Leave a spare key with someone you trust in case of emergencies.
May 17, 2023
Connecting People To Nature
From your backyard to your favorite national park, nature is closer than you think. It’s time to get out and enjoy it.
‘Connecting People to Nature’, the theme for World Environment Day 2017, implores us to get outdoors and into nature, to appreciate its beauty and its importance, and to take forward the call to protect the Earth that we share.

The value of nature
In recent decades, scientific advances as well as growing environmental problems such as global warming are helping us to understand the countless ways in which natural systems support our own prosperity and well-being.
For example, the world’s oceans, forests and soils act as vast stores for greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane; farmers and fisher-folk harness nature on land and under water to provide us with food; scientists develop medicines using genetic material drawn from the millions of species that make up Earth’s astounding biological diversity.
Billions of rural people around the world spend every working day ‘connected to nature’ and appreciate full well their dependence on natural water supplies and how nature provides their livelihoods in the form of fertile soil. They are among the first to suffer when ecosystems are threatened, whether by pollution, climate change or over-exploitation.
Nature’s gifts are often hard to value in monetary terms. Like clean air, they are often taken for granted, at least until they become scarce. However, economists are developing ways to measure the multi-trillion-dollar worth of many so-called ‘ecosystem services’, from insects pollinating fruit trees in the orchards of California to the leisure, health and spiritual benefits of a hike up a Himalayan valley.
Hit the park
This year’s World Environment Day is an ideal occasion to go out and enjoy your country’s national parks and other wilderness areas. Park authorities in some countries may follow Canada’s example and waive or reduce park entry fees on June 5 or for a longer period.
Once you are there, why not set yourself a challenge (seek out a rare mammal, identify five butterflies, reach the remotest corner of the park). Record what you see, and send us a photo of yourself and/or your discoveries so we can post it on our digital channels and encourage others to go exploring too.
You could join the growing number of citizen scientists. More and more smartphone apps help you log your sightings and connect with others who can identify the species. The records feed into conservation strategies and map the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
Nature up close
Connecting to nature can involve all the physical senses: why not take off your shoes and get your feet (and hands) dirty; don’t just look at the beautiful lake, jump in! Take a hike at night and rely on your ears and nose to experience nature.
You can also connect with nature in the city, where major parks can be a green lung and a hub of biodiversity. Why not do your bit to green the urban environment, by greening your street or a derelict site, or planting a window box? You could put a spade in the soil or lift a paving slab and see what creatures live beneath.
Wherever you are, you could vow to pick up 10 (or 100) pieces of trash, or take inspiration from the citizens of Mumbai, India, and organize a mass beach clean-up.
Your activity doesn’t have to take place on 5 June itself. UN Environment, for instance, will soon begin testing your knowledge and raising your appreciation of a healthy environment with competitions and online quizzes and provide a whole menu of ideas to help you celebrate the day.
In the age of asphalt and smartphones and among the distractions of modern life, connections with nature can be fleeting. But with your help, World Environment Day can make clearer than ever that we need harmony between humanity and nature so that both are able to thrive.
Source: worldenvironmentday.global
June 5, 2017
More You Travel More You Learn
Why Travel | The more you travel, the more you learn. It does not matter what you do for leaving or how much money you make – make it a point to venture out. The memories that we make on our trips give us fuel to go on in life.
Travel Style | Our travel style changes from trip to trip, depending on the place and budget. We must be a flexible traveller.
Foodie Moment | Experimenting with Malnad food! Many love their spices. We love green mutton curry and rice.
Must pack items | Speakers, map and camera.
Travel lessons to learn | There is always a solution for everything. One must never panic, and instead think and find a solution. In addition, we must learn to adapt to things easily.
Travel help to realize | People might speak different languages and eat different foods, but at core we are all the same. Love interacting with people from different states and getting to know their stories. It is enriching.
My Travel style tips | Carry track pants that are easy and comfortable to wear and look cool at the same time. Carry lots of basics so you can pair them up with things and get a new look every time.
January 15, 2017