Category: Western Ghats Nature

Places to Visit in Sakleshpur on Your Weekend Getaway
Sakleshpur ( kannada: ಸಕಲೇಶಪುರ) is a hill station town and headquarters of Sakleshpur Taluk in Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is referred to as ‘poor man’s Ooty’.
Sakleshpur or Sakleshpura is a hill station town in Hassan District of the South Indian state of Karnataka. It is a beautiful town located in Western Ghats on Bangalore‑Mangalore Highway. Sakleshpur is located on the border of Malnad and Bayaluseemae in Hassan district. It receives heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon and because of the temperate climate; this place is blessed with huge amount of coffee, tea, cardamom, and pepper plantations. It is located at an average elevation of 949 metres (3,113 feet). Since it has temperate climate on the Western Ghats, it is suited for growing Cash crops. Coffee growers from the neighbouring villages throng to sell coffee at Sakleshpur. Sakleshpur is located in the Western Ghats, a mountain range that stretches from Kerala to Gujarat. The southern range, which includes Bisle reserve forest and the region around Sakleshpur is listed as one of the 18 most diverse spots in the world in terms of flora and fauna. If you are planning a holiday in Sakleshpur, you will be glad to know that there are many home stays, resorts, camping and trekking groups that provide good accommodation and trekking facility.
The town lies in the Malnad region on the magnificent hills of the biodiversity hotspot, the Western Ghats. It has a temperate climate surrounded with lofty green hills full of coffee, cardamom, pepper and areca plantations . These crops which contribute mainly to the economy of the Taluk are grown in the surrounding villages and entire taluk are brought to Sakleshpur city for sale. The town lies on National Highway 48 (NH-48) which connects port city of Mangaluru with capital city Bengaluru of Karnataka state. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport.
The town lies in the Malnad region on the magnificent hills of the biodiversity hotspot, the Western Ghats. It has a temperate climate surrounded with lofty green hills full of coffee, cardamom, pepper and areca plantations . These crops which contribute mainly to the economy of the Taluk are grown in the surrounding villages and entire taluk are brought to Sakleshpur city for sale. The town lies on National Highway 48 (NH-48) which connects port city of Mangaluru with capital city Bengaluru of Karnataka state. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport.
Distance from Bangalore: 222 kilometers
Sakleshpur has something for everyone. Trekking trails, coffee plantations, waterfalls, temples and wildlife all await you here. So, if you are in Bangalore and have a day or two to spare, hit the road to Sakleshpur.
Things to Do in Sakleshpur
1. Relaxing: There can be nothing more than relaxing amidst lush green environment. Visit the Sakleshpur green valleys and later relish a nice lunch at homestay. They have a great malnad cuisine on offer.
2. Coffee Camaraderie: A lot really can happen over a good brew. While in Sakleshpur, sample the region’s finest in flavour at tasting sessions across coffee plantations in the region.
3. Trekking Trails: Sakleshpur has many breathtaking trails that you can take off on. Trek up to Jenkal / Diggal, which offers great views or make your way to North India, which is a little further away from Betta Bhairaveshwara Prasanna Temple.
4. Temple Tour: Visit Bhairaveshwara Prasanna Temples at Maragunda & Byrapura, a nearby hamlet known for its ancient temples. Here, the Bhairaveshwara Swamy temple is a must visit for its pristine divines and silence. Checkout other nearby temples near Sakleshpur.
5. Birding Best: With its expanse of green, Sakleshpur is home to many avian species. Remember to carry your binoculars to spot several varieties of birds chirping for your attention. A visit to the nearby deep jungle is a must for bird lovers.
6. Jeep Drive: If you get a chance to have a jeep drive, please opt for it. Many people do not get the opportunity to experience these off beat drives other than leaving in hilly regions. Sakleshpur hosts many off beat drive events for 4×4 vehicles. If you have one you could participate in these off beat jeep drives. Subscribe for events happening near Sakleshpur.
7. Nature: Try knowing local nature and culture of people in these Western Ghats regions. Be a good listener to local people talking, winds blowing, birds chirping and insects sounds. The Sakleshpur culture varies a bit compared to Coorg but the hospitality and food is same.
Places to Visit near Sakleshpur
Hassan
180 kms. From Bangalore in the district head quarters, Hassan. This quiet and peaceful town is convenient base to visit Shravanabelagola, Belur and Halebidu. Hassan offers a wide variety of accommodations. It is well connected by road and rail to Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore.
1. Sharavanabelagola: 51 kms, South-East of Hassan, is one of the most important Jain Pilgrim Center. Here is the 17 mtr. High monolith of Lord Bahubali, the world’s tallest monolithic statue. Thousands of devotees congregate here to perform the Mahamasthakabhisheka – a spectacular ceremony held once in 12 years when the 1000-year-old statue is anointed with milk, curds, ghee, saffron and gold coins. The next Mahamasthakabhisheka will be held in 2005 A.D.Shravanabelagola is 150 kms. From Bangalore.
2. Belur: The quaint hamlet-38 kms. From Hassan is located on the banks of river Yagachi. It was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire, total made unforgettable for its exquisite temples. The Chennakeshava temple is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. It took 103 years to complete and the reason is evident. The facade of the temple is filled with intricate sculptures and freezes with no portion left blank. Elephants, episodes from the epics, sensuous dancers… they are all there-awe inspiring in their intricate workmanship. Inside are hand lathe turned filigreed pillars.
The Kappe Channigaraya temple and the smaller shrines are well worth a visit.
3. Halebidu: is 27 kms. North-West of Hassan and 17 kms. East of Belur. The Temples of Halebid – like those of Belur, bear mute testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka. The Hoysaleshwara temple, dating back to the 12th century is astounding for its wealth of sculptural details. The walls of the temple are covers with an endless variety of Gods and Godesses, animals, birds and dancing girls. Yet no two facets of the temple are the same. The magnificent temple guarded by the Nandi bull was never completed despite 86 years of labour.
4. The Jain basadis near by are equally rich sculptural detail. Belur and Halebidu are 222 and 216 kms. From Bangalore respectively.
Insider Tips
Sakleshpur has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. While on your weekend getaway, do not forget to pick up the finest coffee beans at local Coffee Works in Sakleshpur
Where to stay? Sakleshpur has good homestays for guests and is a comfortable accommodation option. You can visit our homestay in Sakleshpur
Budget: Rs. 2,000 per person for a weekend (inclusive of accommodation and food)
Traveller Type: Family, Friends, Corporate groups
February 25, 2016
Cool Ways to Travel in 2016
Wellness Climbs Up the Priority List
The wellness revolution seems to be getting bigger by the day among globetrotters. With resorts, holiday homes, boutique hotels and even airlines dedicating a major chunk of the itinerary to distressing, detoxing and other health-related activities, the wellness quotient is definitely a norm this year. What’s more? Some properties are also incorporating walking and hiking tours, with food and beverage menus being given a complete overhaul.
Travelling with Total Stanger’s
Sounds scary? But isn’t travelling all about meeting new people? Going on solo trips, on with one gets to explore untouched lands with a group of complete strangers, is becoming popular; particularly among backpackers and couch surfers. These travel junkies are often seen making trips to lesser-known places such as small towns and remote villages. In fact, going small is translating into big trend, as it is low-budget and a convenient way to beat the rush.
January 25, 2016
Leech
Holding Leech on Hand
Holding leech on hand to create awareness about leaches. Quite common that urban people will be scared on seeing them and some may run too of anxiety where they will be scared to move on whether it be trekking or walk! To overcome this anxiety a video has been posted. Basically we put salt and lemon juice to our legs to avoid leeches climbing on to our legs. Leeches are common in western ghats i.e our Malnad region (Chikmagalur and Sakleshpur).
We at Mekanagadde Homestay create awareness to our guests about the insects which we see around and let them share our knowledge.
#Homestay in Sakleshpur #Homestay in Chikmagalur #Chikmagalur Resorts #Sakleshpur Resorts
September 21, 2015
Deforestation in Western Ghats leading Bats towards extinction, Coffee Plantation Comes to Rescue
A new survey has put bats at the risk of extinction due to deforestation, especially in the Western Ghats of India but there is a glimmer of hope for the species in the upcoming coffee plantation.
Besides deforestation, rampant consumption of natural resources too has pushed many species into extinction and tigers, some rare species of birds are the biggest example of this. A team of British and Indian researchers, associated with University of Leeds, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore and Nature Conservation Foundation, Mysore, conducted the survey on the bats dwelling in the southern Western Ghats of India and discovered that deforestation is pushing bats into extinction.
The goal of the research team was obtaining a first-ever comprehensive report of the effect of rainforest and plantations destruction on bats. They utilized “geographic information system (GIS)” computer modeling to evaluate the connection between the existence of 10 variant bat species and the habitat traits they were dwelling in.
Photo Credit: PD-USGov
Stretching over a span of three years, the researchers utilized information from a combination of capture and recording of “echolocation calls” to prepare “habitat suitability models” and envisage which habitats would be ideal for the bats to dwell in the entire studied region.
However, the team also found a glimmer of hope in the coffee plantations present in the Western Ghats, emphasizing that these could help to preserve the bat species.
Claire Wordley, who is the lead researcher of the study from Leeds explained that arabica coffee, which is cultivated beneath a shade of native tree species served to be the best shelter for the bat species.
She added that the “coffee bushes grow really big” and are very “important stronghold” for the species of bat, albeit not close to the forest patches, “but much better than the tea”.
Professor Altringham, who is also associated with Leeds said that Western Ghats, which is the 8th most bio-diverse place in the world is left with only 6 percent of the natural habitat due to rampant land utilization change and development.
He added that the study of bats that are “excellent bio-indicators” not only helped to know what these alterations meant to these species, “but also for wildlife in general”.
He cautioned that anymore deforestation in the future would pose a severe threat to the bat species, though for the moment they are thriving in “small forest patches, riverine habitats and in coffee plantations”.
Providing a way to help preserve bat species, Altringham said that in order for bats and other wildlife to dwell in the Western Ghats, “a careful balance of land use is necessary”.
The study has been published in the journal “Biological Conservation”.
According to Livegreen Magazine, deforestation directly affects small animals depleting their sources of food for survival as most of them thrive on the trees for food, prompting them to die of malnourishment. It also contributes to greenhouse gases, which are these days elevating the temperatures of the earth. Moreover, the encounter between man and animal is leading to extinction of these animals.
August 21, 2015
Bisle Ghat Trekking
Bisle is the rain forest of Western Ghats of Karnataka. The reserve forest spreads over 3,135 hectares of lowland evergreen forest, to the east is the Bisle Village. Kempuhole forest reserve adjoins in the North. The sub-tropical climate and heavy rains during the wet season create an environment where several unique plant and animal species flourish. Also within driving distance, the Bisle Ghat is an extremely picturesque destination. The Bisle Gudda or Sunny Mountain here is a popular picnic spot, while the Bisle Betta or Bisle View Point offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The ghat borders the Bisle Reserve Forest, one of the country’s most magnificent rain forests. Its diverse habitat is home to an amazing selection of flora and fauna, making it a must-see for nature lovers. The Bisle Reserve Forest is also a great place for trekking, as well as for bird watching. The forest authorities have constructed several observation points which provide vantage positions to see the reserve’s varied bird life, or to simply sit back and enjoy the panoramic view.
Activities and things to do: KUMARA PARVATHA:
Places around Kukke Subrahmanya is a trekkers delight. Kumara Parvatha hills stand 4000 feet above sea level, is one of the difficult trekking route in Karnataka. A 30 km upstrech trek into the deep forest from Kukke Subramanya town takes you to the top of the hill. It will take at least two days for a beginner to complete this trekking route.
Sakleshpur is famous for the trekking opportunities it offers. One of the most traversed routes here is the Railway Track Trek, which, as the name suggests, is an unused railway track stretching from Sakleshpur to Kukke Subrahmanya, running along the Western Ghats. Featuring 109 bridges and 25 gushing waterfalls, it is an experience worth exploring.
August 2, 2015
Jenkal Betta Trekking
Jenkal Betta – Dipadakallu / Diggallu
Jenkal Betta is a mountain lying in Sakleshpur of Karnataka. Jenkal Betta is the tallest among the other hills in the same range. The mountain is clearly visible from the Shiradi Ghat road which connects Bangalore and Mangalore. The villagers living nearby Jenkal Betta considers the peak as a holy place and conducts rituals during the post monsoon time. The hill range is a trekkers paradise. It is dangerous to climb the mountain during monsoon. There is a nearby hill called Diggallu or Dipadakallu which is clubbed with Jenkal Betta for trekking. Many famous peaks like Ettina Bhuja, Kumaraparvata, Sheshaparvata etc. are visible from the hill top during clear days. During the lush post monsoon months the hill top will be misty with very low visibility.
Route
If you are looking for a destination where you will get to indulge in extreme activities such as trekking, this should be your destination. Jenukal Gudda, can be reached through Hodachalli village offers you a vantage point of view to the coast of the Arabian Sea in Mangalore. The area is covered with one side coffee estates and other side with thick jungles which makes it perfect for trekking. One more long trekking can be done from Mekanagadde via Pandavar Gudda.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit Jenkal Betta is after the rainy season, typically between September and January. Usually better to start early in the morning to avoid late return.
Food and Accomodation
Mekanagadde Homestay can arrange for trekking to Jenkal Gudda with packed foods for lunch along with a guide. This can be clubbed with normal package of Mekanagadde Homestay. Only guide charges will be extra.
Things to take care
- Start Early Morning
- Keep sufficient food and water
- Get equipped with fully charged mobile, torch and good trekking shoes.
- Always have a local guide with your group
- Minimum group size ideally be 8 members
- Since its forest area there will be wild animals
NOTE: The trek is banned and not allowed to trek by Forest Department. If found illigal entry then hefty fine will be charged.
August 2, 2015
Take the Trekking Trail in the Western Ghats
Take on a challenge by trekking in the wilds of the Western Ghats.
Preserve the pristine beauty: A waterfall in full spate in the Western Ghats
Sakleshpur
For the adventurous who are eager to discover the beauty of the Western Ghats, the southern Malnad region of Hassan district is the best place to explore. The wilds of the ghat really pose a challenge to the trekking buffs. The southern Malnad is a forest clad hilly region with heavy rainfall. On the western periphery are the picturesque ghats extending from the pass at Bisle Ghat to the Jenkal Betta, with lofty peaks. According to Major Montgomery, who was enchanted with the beauty of the Western Ghats, “the character of the country is generally undulating till on approaching the ghats, when it becomes precipitous. Perhaps there is no scenery in India more beautiful than the southern part of this tract, adjoining the northwest Coorg. It resembles for the most part the richest park scenery in England: hills covered with the finest grass or equally verdant crops of dry grain adorned and crowned with clumps of noble forest trees in some instances apparently planted most carefully and certainly with perfect taste.” This description of the Western Ghats by him, by and large, holds good even today.
On the tracks
The trek on the railway track stretching 58.6 k.m. from Sakleshpur to Subramanya road, which was shut down for gauge conversion some years ago, is a lifetime experience for the trekkers. Considered to be one of the most beautiful trekking routes, this track has 58 tunnels, some of which are as long as 300 meters and 109 bridges.
One can witness about 25 waterfalls before reaching Subramanya. Trekkers should keep in mind that it is difficult to walk on the bridges as in some places the planks have been broken and the surface is slippery. They should also be careful as the area is infested with leeches. A deserted Yedakumeri railway station suggests the trekkers have reached their destination.
The Railways are working hard to complete the gauge conversion between Sakleshpur and Subramanya. On completion it will be very difficult to trek in this stretch. However people can enjoy the beauty of the Western Ghats by travelling in the Hassan-Mangalore train.
Save it
The tropical forests of this region are home to rare species and are classified one of the 18 biodiversity hotspots in the world. The ecosystem of the Western Ghats has been facing danger in the last few decades because of large-scale encroachment, logging and permission and incentives given to forest based industries and development activities like hydel dams.
During a recent trek in the area, locals alleged that the promoters of Kempu Hole hydel project had cut more than 500 trees and not 50 trees as promised.
They are also opposing Gundia High Head Scheme (GHHS), a 300 MW power project proposed by the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited. The people regret that the quantity of rainfall has reduced due to denudation of forests over the years. Incessant rainfall which they were experiencing in the past, is a thing of past.
The villagers of Hongadahalla in Sakleshpur decided to reduce the pressure on the forest cover in Western Ghat area and protest against any hydel project including the GHHS project of KPC.
They also appeal to the trekkers and tourists not to spoil the surroundings by strewing plastic materials and requested them to extinguish the fire after cooking in the forest area.
August 2, 2015
Devaramane Trekking and Haarlu Flowers
Denaramane belongs to the Mudigere Taluk in Chikmagalur. It covers the vast area between Shiradi and Charmadi Ghat. Devaramane Hills is located in Gutti village brings you close to the nature and its an exhilarating experience. Travellers can climbs the peaks, walks across the grasslands, crosses gurgling streams, and views magnificent waterfalls. The area is lush green even in summers.
Devaramane offers a number of variations that makes it an ideal Trekking spot for both beginners and hardcore trekkers. There are number of hillocks to climb, the Ettina Bhuja – Bulls Hump-back, also known as Shishila Gudda, towers over the rest of the peaks in the area. From a height of 3000 ft, the roar of the river flowing beneath can be heard. The famous Kapila fishing camp is located nearly 15+ km from Devaramane.
The place where these unique purple flowers, called Haarlu, blossom once every 12 years. “Haarlu is quite similar to the Kurunji flowers that grow in the Himalayas. These flowers almost gives the entire hill a carpeted look.
How to Reach: Bangalore – Mekanagadde – Gutti village – Devaramane
Daily, buses play between Bangalore and Mudigere, board a bus and hit the national highway. There are local buses available for Gutti village from Mudigere. One can also catch a local transport to reach Devaramane.
Exact Location: Western Ghats. Its located near Gutti Village in Karnataka.
District: Chikmagalur
Nearest Town: Mudigere
Distance from Bangalore: 258 kms.
Best Time to Visit: Early Winters.
Nearest Homestay: Mekanagadde Homestay
Devaramane Lake: Devaramane Lake is located close to Devarmane. Its a beautiful tranquil lake, considered to be an ideal spot for pitching a camp.
Mudigere: About 3200 above sea level, Mudigere is 25 km from Devaramane and is a Panchayat town of Chikkamagaluru. Its surrounded by coffee plantations.
July 27, 2015
Nature Earth and Think of Preserving Crucial Western Ghats Life

The Western Ghats: A Crucial Biodiversity Hotspot in Need of Preservation
The Western Ghats of India, a mountain range that runs parallel to the country’s western coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity in the world. This region is not only home to an impressive array of flora and fauna but also plays a critical role in influencing the Indian monsoon weather patterns. The unique biophysical and ecological processes that occur here are of immense global importance.
Biodiversity in the Western Ghats is rich and varied, with at least 325 globally threatened species found within its forests. These include plants, mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish, many of which are endemic to the region. The Ghats’ complex terrain and habitats, ranging from grasslands to forests, contribute to this high level of endemism.
However, the Western Ghats face significant threats from human activities, including land-use changes, deforestation, and habitat fragmentation. Studies have shown that habitat preservation can enhance biodiversity in the region. For instance, a recent study highlighted the impact of land-use change on rock-dwelling fauna, demonstrating that even species adapted to variable climates are vulnerable to agricultural practices like agroforestry and paddy cultivation.
Conservation efforts in the Western Ghats have focused on establishing protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and reserve forests. These areas are crucial for conserving habitat and allowing wildlife to flourish. Additionally, the recognition of the Ghats as a UNESCO World Heritage site underscores the global value of preserving this unique ecosystem.
The Western Ghats also offer a plethora of ecosystem services, including water purification, flood control, and carbon sequestration. These services are vital for the well-being of the human population that depends on them. Therefore, preserving the Western Ghats is not only about protecting biodiversity but also about sustaining the ecological services that benefit humanity.
To effectively preserve the Western Ghats, it is essential to develop and implement policies that balance conservation with sustainable development. This includes promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices, preventing land encroachments from outsiders, and supporting scientific research that informs conservation strategies.
The preservation of the Western Ghats is a task that requires the cooperation of governments and local communities. By working together, we can ensure that this irreplaceable treasure of nature continues to thrive for generations to come. The Western Ghats remind us of the delicate balance between human progress and the need to maintain the Earth’s natural heritage. It is a call to action for all of us to think about preserving the crucial life that it harbors.
July 13, 2015

Sakleshpur Weather

Sakleshpur is the emerging tourist destination next to Chikmagalur. Because of the Western Ghats huge hills and valleys, more and more travelers are attracted to visit Sakleshpur. According to me number of travellers visiting in rainy season is more than that of summer season, this is due to the green nature in rainy and winter season. Not only in these two seasons the nature and landscapes will be green but also throughout the year the scenic beauty of Western Ghats will remain the same except the grass turns to yellow and dry.

Sakleshpur Current Weather Forecast

SAKLESHPUR WEATHER

Weather in Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur average weather by month

Month	Temperature °C				Average Rainfall (mm)		Average snow days	Average Fog days
	Average		Absolute		Daily	Monthly
	max	min	max	min	Daily	Monthly
January	25.8	18.8	31	4	0	0	0	9
February	25.7	11.4	37	-4	0	0	0	2
March	18	14.4	35	0	0	0	0	1
April	25.1	12.3	36	21	0.2	6	0	0
May	24.6	18.6	39	3	3.8	114	0	0
June	17.1	16.3	31	19	1.8	54	1	0
July	15.6	17.9	33	19	3.8	114	0	1
August	15.6	17.8	31	9	2.4	72	0	1
September	15	16.7	29	6	2.1	63	0	0
October	25	19	30	9	3.9	117	0	0
November	23.4	18.4	47	18	5	150	0	4
December	21.3	15.7	30	-4	0	0	1	7

June 17, 2015

Category: Western Ghats Nature

Things to Do in Sakleshpur

Places to Visit near Sakleshpur

Hassan

Insider Tips

Holding Leech on Hand

Jenkal Betta – Dipadakallu / Diggallu

Route

Best Time to Visit

Food and Accomodation

Things to take care

Sakleshpur

On the tracks

Save it

Sakleshpur Current Weather Forecast

Weather in Sakleshpur