Karnataka has a very special place in our hearts. After all, the very existence of Mastane Musafir begins from Karnataka. And honestly speaking, Karnataka is often overlooked by travelers. But believe us, if you get to know it up close and personal, it will leave you spellbound by its magic. While the state boasts vivid shades of diversity, both natural and cultural, the beach bums within us have a special connection with the gorgeous beaches that fall on the 280 km coastline of Karnataka. Here's the guide for you about the lesser-known beaches of Karnataka.
Karwar Beach
Just 45 minutes from Palolem in Goa, Karwar beach is the first major beach of Karnataka, and one of the main reasons to visit it is the serene, gorgeous, and unblemished beach. With vast swathes of smooth white sands and soothing blue waters, it is a perfect destination for those who simply want to relax and soak up the sun and sea. White seagulls flying across the backdrop of a softly lit coral sky, this destination creates a delightful view that can be cherished for long after you leave.
How to reach:
By Rail: Nearest Railway station is Karwar Railway Station. All major trains halt here. Alternatively, you can get down at Margao and drive to Karwar.
By Air: Goa's Dabolim airport is the nearest airport
Kudle Beach, Gokarna
Gokarna made us fall in love with its beaches, head over heels. There is an oddly satisfying charm to its beaches. Perhaps, the charm of hidden beaches is just exquisite. Kudle beach in Gokarna carries this charm in a very gracious manner. It ignites a little spark in your mind as you make inroads through the ferns and foliage only to be at the receiving end of the unaltered beauty of the ocean. And the sunsets here are just amazing. What attracts you is the calmness in the surroundings, as if you are left with the ocean to have a tête-à-tête.
How to reach:
By Rail: Gokarna Road is the nearest railway station. Many important trains like Matsyagandha Express, KSR Bengaluru Karwar Express, Poorna Express, Marusagar Express and Mangalore Local halt here.
By Air: Hubli Airport in Karnataka & Dabolim airport in Goa are the nearest airports.
Murudeshwar Beach
Ever thought of experiencing fun and spirituality together? A weird combination, isn't it? A divine feeling sets in as you approach the premises of Murudeshwar temple. Standing in between the 20-storeyed Gopura and huge Shiva idol, the heads go from right to left and back, in amazement and awe. The view from the Gopuram is even more fascinating. 20-storeys above the ground, a realization occurs that the shrine is surrounded by water from 3 sides. 3 windows, 3 directions, 3 jaw-dropping views. And all three views are unique in their aspect. Any adjectives will not be able to do justice to the sheer beauty of this place.
How to Reach
By Rail: The temple town has its own railway station and all the important trains like Matsyagandha Express, KSR Bengaluru Karwar Express, Netravathi Express, Nagercoil Express and Madgao Passenger halt here.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
Marvanthe Beach
Sometimes, you find happiness at places you least expect to find. A beach, from out of nowhere, running parallel to the National Highway. We've always dreamt of driving parallel to the sea on The Great Ocean Road in Australia. Well, Marvanthe gets you similar feelings. And there's something better, the river Suvarna runs parallel to the sea on the other side of the road, so you just absorb the beauty nature has to offer.
How to reach:
By Rail: Byndoor Railway Station and Murudeshwar Station are equidistant from Marvanthe.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
Ottinene Beach
How do you feel when you discover a secret beach? Excited, elevated, contented, or delighted? We felt a little of all these emotions when we unearthed this gem. A completely off the course and secretly hidden will just give you good and positive vibes as the beach welcomes you with open arms. But the secrecy is not its USP. There's an estuary which leads up to the beach, where the river Suvarna meets with the ocean. The view is worth the most precious gem on earth, perhaps even more than that. And one of the best sunset views ever.
How to Reach:
By Rail: Byndoor Railway Station is the nearest train stop.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
Malpe Beach
A mighty beach, the deafening sound of the sea, the thunderous breeze, and a glass of drink. Yes, it is the kind of beach where you just sit back and relax. Just 8 km from Manipal, is this beautiful beach of Malpe. We have seen all shades of Malpe, it is eerily silent in summers and roars vigorously in monsoons. And like a big-hearted person, embraces everyone on its shore, so much so that even 1000 people can be tucked away in one of its corners. That's Malpe for you.
How to Reach:
By Rail: Udupi Railway station is the nearest railway station, 8 km from the beach.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
St. Mary's Island
A ferry ride away from Malpe beach lies St. Mary's Island. The Basaltic Lava formation and deposition around the coast have led to the creation of black vertical columns, providing a perfect late afternoon getaway. With crystal clear waters, you would definitely feel you have landed up in a different world altogether.
How to Reach:
Only way to reach is catch a ferry from Malpe beach. The service operates from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM and costs ₹250/- per person. Services are not operational from June to September due to rough weather.
Kapu Beach
There are some places with which you have millions of memories associated. Kapu beach is that place for us. It is the charisma of the beaches with lighthouses. For the ship lost at sea, a lighthouse gives it hope. When a person sees a beach with a lighthouse, the tranquillity of the scene has a similar effect on his mind. Mere sitting on the rocks at the base of the lighthouse facing the mighty ocean with a cool breeze ruffling your hair is quite an experience in itself. And from the top of the lighthouse, all you feel is "Alive & Awesome"
How to Reach:
By Rail: Udupi Railway station is the nearest railway station, 16 km from the beach.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
Padubidri Beach
One of the 8 beaches of India to receive the Blue Flag certification, Padubidri beachfront is excellent for witnessing glamorous sunsets as well as sunrises. You can take a walk on the smooth sand on the beach or splash a little cool water on yourself. The experience is very refreshing and a great escape from busy life.
How to Reach:
By Rail: Though Padubidri has its own railway station, not all trains make a halt here. Mulki Railway Station, 8 km away, is the nearest station.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
Mulki Beach
For all the water babies who love adventures and water sports, Mulki is a place not to be missed out on. This quaint town spreads across the banks of river Shambhavi and is a prominent landmark for being home to the first Indian surf club. A perfect blend of sporty and village life, you will get to experience it all in Mulki.
How to Reach:
By Rail: Mulki railway station is the nearest train stop.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
Tannirbhavi Beach
One of the last beaches on the coast of Karnataka, Tannirbhavi is the kind of place you just do not want to leave. The towering whistling pine trees lead the way to the golden sands of the beach. With the seemingly endless stretch of warm sands and the mild waves of the ocean that wash your feet, Tannirbhavi is perfect for a long walk on a romantic evening with your someone special.
How to Reach:
By Rail: Mangalore railway station is the nearest train station
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport.
To reach Tannirbhavi, you need to take a ferry from Sultan Battery, which costs around ₹10/- per person.
We will always be indebted to Karnataka for introducing us to its myriad shades, and also for bringing us together, and most importantly, letting us know about its glorious beaches. If you guys have reached this far, do consider taking a coastal road trip in Karnataka at least once in your lifetime, you will surely not regret it.
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