We have already covered the places that most travelers explore during their trip. However, Karnataka is also home to a few hidden gems that can elevate your experience. From serene hill stations and unexplored waterfalls to ancient temples tucked in remote villages, Off-Beat Places in Karnataka offer a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Keep a few days extra in the bank to cover these places.

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List of Off-Beat Places in Karnataka

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking solitude, or an explorer at heart, there are some unique places to visit in Karnataka. Journey beyond the mainstream and uncover the lesser-known beauty of this diverse South Indian state. These offbeat destinations are ideal for weekend getaways and immersive cultural escapes you won’t soon forget.

1. Karighatta Black Hill

As implied by the name, Karighatta is a blackish hill station, 10 km from the Srirangapatna town and is among the list of unexplored places to visit near Bangalore. This place is at an elevation of 2,697 ft and is an attractive choice for trekkers, bird watchers, and nature lovers. Located on top of the hill is the popular Karighatta Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where thousands of devotees come every year in the hope of washing away their sins.

Closest Airport: Mysuru Airport
Closest Railway Station: Srirangapatna

karighatta-black-hill — A scenic view of Karighatta, also known as Black Hill, with lush green slopes and rocky outcrops under a clear blue sky.

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2. Sirsi

The small town of Karnataka is not commonly heard of, but it is home to several waterfalls. A visit to Sirsa can acquaint you with Vibhooti Falls, Burude Falls, Magod Falls, Satoddi Falls, Unchalli Falls, and more. This tourist destination is also known for spice plantations like vanilla, cardamom, betel leaves, and pepper.

Closest Airport: Hubli
Closest Railway Station: Talguppa Railway Station

burude-falls — urude Falls cascades gracefully amidst lush greenery, creating a serene and refreshing natural retreat.

3. Honnemaradu

Honnemaradu is a district that’s often known for its silent yet captivating surroundings and is among the unique places to visit in Karnataka. It is enveloped with greenery, waterfalls, and lakes, making it a good spot for arranging a picnic. The major attraction of this hamlet is the water sports available at the Honnemaradu Lake.

Closest Airport: Shivamogga Airport
Closest Railway Station: Talguppa Railway Station

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4. Agumbe

Immerse in the beauty of Agumbe, a small region in Shivamogga, that is untouched by civilisation. Everywhere you look, there’ll be waterfalls, greenery, and mesmerising views of the sky. Agumbe, or the Cherrapunji of South India, is perfect for anyone who wants to escape everyday monotony and simply rejuvenate.

Closest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Closest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station

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5. Apsarakonda

Apsarakonda is an ancient village that’s slowly turning into a tourist attraction in Uttara. The literal translation “Pond of the Angels” resonates with the beauty of the town as nature flaunts its best version in its waterfalls. In fact, according to a legend, angels used to enjoy a relaxing bath in Apsarakonda.

Closest Airport: Hubli Airport
Closest Railway Station: Murudeshwar Railway Station

6. Arbi Falls

If you are searching for some off-track locations in Karnataka, then there’s nothing more scenic than the Arbi Falls of Manipal. A home to the white waterfalls, this small region acts as a respite from chaotic life, especially with its frequent downpour and rocky terrains. You can enjoy the view of the surroundings or go for a hike here.

Closest Airport: Kannur Airport
Closest Railway Station: Mangalore Railway Station

7. Shivagange

Shivagange is a small hill station you can easily reach by car from Bangalore and is among the list of off-beat places near Bangalore. It is at a peak of 2,630 ft. and is famous as a pilgrimage for the Hindus. People often travel to the location to seek blessings from the rock sculpture of Nandi, which is in the form of a Shivalinga. There is also a local spring close to the sculpture, which is called Ganga by the natives.

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Closest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport
Closest Railway Station: Dobbespet Railway Station

Shivagange is a majestic hill shaped like a Shiva Linga, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain

8. Karwar

Karwar is a coastal town located close to the mouth of the Kali River, known for gorgeous beaches and casuarina trees. The history of this place dates to the 15th century, when it was used as a trading centre by the British. Today, it acts as a natural harbour and a hub of water sports activities like banana boat rides, snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking.

Closest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Closest Railway Station: Karwar Railway Station

karwar-beach — Golden sands stretch along Karwar Beach, with gentle waves caressing the shore. Palm trees sway under the clear blue sky, creating a serene coastal escape

9. Channapatna

It is a small district of Ramanagara, and is often called the Town of Toys for the amazing range of wooden toys available here. Apart from being home to the toy land, Channapatna is also known for its religious sites and historical monuments like Navaneetha Krishna Temple, Dodda Mallur, and Nadi Narasimhaswamy Temple.

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Closest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport
Closest Railway Station: Channapatna Railway Station

Doddamallur Temple, an ancient Chola-era monument, showcases exquisite stone carvings and traditional Dravidian architecture

10. Banavasi

You may have heard about Uttara Kannada’s beauty, but have you ever visited Banavasi? This ancient town near Sirsi used to be home to the Kadamba Dynasty, and is famous for stone-age temples. One of the most popular sights here is the Madhukeshwara Temple.

Closest Airport: Hubli Airport
Closest Railway Station: Haveri Railway Station