10 Places To Visit Near Kavaledurga That Blend Nature, Peace, And Local History

Barkana Falls view through lush forest among places to visit near Kavaledurga.

Places to visit near Kavaledurga offer a perfect mix of history, nature, and peaceful escapes tucked deep within the Western Ghats. Surrounded by lush forests, ancient temples, waterfalls, and quiet villages, this region is a hidden gem for travelers seeking serenity and slow travel experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or someone looking for a quiet weekend getaway, the scenic charm and cultural richness of this area promises a refreshing break. Discover calm lakes, misty hills, and timeless trails that make every visit feel both meaningful and memorable.

10 Best Places To Visit Near Kavaledurga

The misty hills, secret paths, and ancient temples that are the characteristics of places to visit near Kavaledurga have become a haven for those seeking tranquillity in the lap of nature, history, and unspoiled natural beauty.

1. Kodachadri Hills

Misty hill slopes and dense forest at Kodachadri Hills, one of the beautiful places to visit near Kavaledurga.

Photo: Chetan Annaji Gowda / Wikimedia Commons

Kodachadri Hills, located in the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary in Shivamogga district, Karnataka, is a trekker’s dream and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The summit of the hill, about 1,343 meters high, offers a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea on clear days. The path leading to the peak goes through thick forests, old temples, and waterfalls, where Hidlumane Falls and Sarvajna Peetha are some of the major attractions. The trek is moderately complex; thus, it is perfect for experienced hikers who are looking for spiritual and natural marvels.

Top Attractions: Hidlumane Falls, Sarvajna Peetha, sunset views, forest trek, Mookambika base temple
Distance From Kavaledurga: 47.5 km

2. Agumbe

Valley view from Agumbe View Point depicting the hills with layers and the dense forest.

Photo: Shashidhara halady / Wikimedia Commons

Agumbe, a tranquil rainforest village in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka, is the best place to visit near Kavaledurga. It is a place that is high in rainfall, with coordinates of 826 meters, and it is in the Western Ghats. Commonly known as the “Cherrapunji of South India,” Agumbe is the setting of a great sunset point, the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, and it is also very close to Barkana and Onake Abbi waterfalls. It is also the king cobra habitat, which makes it a good spot for herpetologists.

Top Attractions: Sunset Point, Rainforest Research Station, king cobra habitat, Barkana Falls, forest trails
Distance From Kavaledurga: 34.7 km

3. Jog Falls

Majestic Jog Falls, one of the stunning places to visit near Kavaledurga.

Photo: Basil MK / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Jog Falls is situated in the Sagara taluk of Shivamogga district, is undoubtedly among the most scenic waterfalls in India, and is certainly one of the best places to see near Kavaledurga. Having a height of 830 feet, the Sharavathi River divides into four rivers, i.e., Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket. When the monsoon is at its peak, the falls are at their best, bursting with life and energy and providing a very striking and memorable view. The availability of the well-preserved lookout point, along with the steep path, enables visitors to experience the panoramic views and trek down to the base of the falls.

Top Attractions: Raja, Rani, Roarer, Rocket streams, viewpoint deck, monsoon flow, base trek
Distance From Kavaledurga: 117.2 km

4. Kollur Mookambika Temple

Ancient Kollur Mookambika Temple showcasing traditional architecture and serene surroundings.

Photo: Roman Saienko / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Kollur Mookambika Temple, located at the foot of the Kodachadri Hills in Udupi district, is a holy pilgrimage site and one of the most visited places near Kavaledurga. The temple of the goddess Mookambika, whose spirit is said to be the combination of Durga and Saraswati, blends the architectural styles of both Kerala and Karnataka and is the primary source of happiness, especially for devotees from the southern part of India. The deity is considered to be the union of the two goddesses, namely, Durga and Saraswati, and it is thus that she draws to herself the scholars, musicians, and seekers of spirituality.

Top Attractions: Mookambika shrine, gold-plated gopura, Saraswati mandap, daily rituals, temple architecture
Distance From Kavaledurga: 71.6 km

5. Sringeri

Serene temple with intricately carved stone pillars and sloped roof, one of the peaceful places to visit near Kavaledurga.

Photo: Vijayakumarblathur / Wikimedia Commons

Sringeri, which is situated on the banks of the Tunga River in Chikkamagaluru district, is known as the temple town, and it is one of the most spiritually enriching tourist attractions near Kavaledurga. It is the place where the famous Sharada Peetham, founded by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, and the Sharadamba Temple, the place from which thousands of devotees come annually, are located. The temple complex, which is decorated with detailed stone sculptures and surrounded by the lush greenery of Tunga River, is perfect not only for spiritual meditation but also for the appreciation of the masterpiece of architecture.

Top Attractions: Sharadamba Temple, Vidyashankara Temple, riverbank setting, stone carvings, peetham
Distance From Kavaledurga: 50.9 km

6. Udupi

Panoramic view of the Udupi Parashurama Temple complex with red-tiled roofs and greenery around.

Photo: Shriram kg / Wikimedia Commons

A coastal town in Karnataka, Udupi, is a charming place that is a delightful blend of spirituality, culture, and seaside beauty, and it is one of the most diverse attractions near Kavaledurga. The town named after the Sri Krishna Temple is a place that also offers beaches like Malpe and St. Mary’s Island, which are known for their volcanic rock formations. The temple town is deeply engaged in Dvaita philosophy, and therefore, the devotees are present throughout the year. Apart from the religious landmarks, Udupi is a place that is famous for its vegetarian food and particularly for the globally liked Udupi dosa.

Top Attractions: Krishna Temple, Malpe Beach, St. Mary’s Island, temple food, Udupi cuisine
Distance From Kavaledurga: 87.6 km

7. Murudeshwar

Majestic Murudeshwar Shiva statue towering by the sea, a stunning place to visit near Kavaledurga.

Photo: Joygopal008 / Wikimedia Commons

Murudeshwar, a coastal town in Uttara Kannada district, is not only attractive but also famous for the world’s second-tallest statue of Lord Shiva. The statue, standing at an impressive height of 123 feet, is the major attraction of Murudeshwar. The temple complex is situated on Kanduka Hill, and it is surrounded by water on three sides. Taking the lift to the crown of the 20-story Raja Gopura, one can undoubtedly enjoy the unbounded beauty of the distant horizon. Besides that, Murudeshwar is also a haven for beach lovers as the beach here is very clean and is suitable for various water sports, along with just relaxing.

Top Attractions: Shiva statue, Murudeshwar Temple, Raja Gopura lift, beachside view, water sports
Distance From Kavaledurga: 131.9 km

8. Barkana Falls

Breathtaking Barkana Falls cascading from a height amidst lush green forest in Karnataka.

Photo: Jeff Sheldon / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Barkana Falls is located deep within the Balehalli forest near Agumbe in Karnataka’s Shimoga district and is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, plunging from a height of about 260 meters (850 feet). The journey begins roughly 7 km from Agumbe village and continues through dense forest trails, best navigated on foot or by jeep with a local guide and forest permit. Surrounded by the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats, this spot offers panoramic viewpoints, opportunities for birdwatching and trekking, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for picnics and relaxing in nature.

Top Attractions: Viewpoint, forest trek, waterfall drop, birdwatching, picnic spot
Distance From Kavaledurga: 35.4 km

9. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

A vibrant ring-necked parakeet at the diverse Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the top places to visit near Kavaledurga.

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Chikkamagaluru and Shivamogga districts of Karnataka, is the most diverse wildlife location in the region. The sanctuary, which covers an area of 490 square kilometres, is located in the Western Ghats and is famous for its biodiversity, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and 250 species of birds. The sanctuary is the Bhadra Reservoir at its core and thus not only allows for jeep safaris and walking along trekking trails but also offers scenic boat rides. The park allows visitors to enjoy the local beauty and calmness of the area.

Top Attractions: Jeep safari, tigers, birdwatching, boat ride, eco-tourism
Distance From Kavaledurga: 60 km

10. Maravanthe Beach

Waves gently lapping the sandy shore at Maravanthe Beach with clear skies and calm waters.

Photo: Manuinder Sekhon / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Situated in the Udupi district of Karnataka, Maravanthe Beach is a rare coastal treasure where the Arabian Sea runs parallel to the Souparnika River, divided by National Highway 66. This striking landscape offers a unique driving experience with water on both sides, making it a visual delight for travelers. Known for its clean sands, golden sunsets, and serene atmosphere, the beach is ideal for leisurely walks, photography, and quiet picnics. Easily accessible by road, Maravanthe provides a tranquil escape for those seeking the charm of Karnataka’s coastline without the bustle of crowded tourist spots.

Top Attractions: Sea-river highway view, clean beach, Souparnika boating, sunset point
Distance From Kavaledurga: 83.9 km

From spiritual retreats and lush forests to waterfalls and coastal escapes, the places to visit near Kavaledurga offer a rich mix of experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure or peaceful nature breaks, this region is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Want a hassle-free getaway? Plan your trip with TripXL and uncover the most rewarding and unexplored places near Kavaledurga today.

Cover Photo: June Admiraal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

December is by far the most wonderful month with its cool and dry air, no clouds, and green nature after the rains; thus, it is perfect for both exploration and photography.
Yes, tourists can have a range of comfort and budget requirements fulfilled by choosing homestays in Thirthahalli, lodges in Agumbe, and resorts in Sringeri and Udupi.
Maravanthe Beach is locationally unparalleled, such that it is flanked by the Arabian Sea on one side and the Souparnika River on the other side; therefore, it is like a pictorial road trip.
Several trekking routes lead to scenic spots like Kodachadri Hills, Agumbe, and Barkana Falls, each offering different levels of difficulty and beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
The region is home to diverse fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, king cobras, and numerous bird species, especially in sanctuaries like Bhadra and Agumbe.

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