Most people from Chennai and Bengaluru head to Kerala for vacations as it is often perceived that the state has the most scenic locations and beautiful scenery. But that is not entirely true. With serene atmospheres, no commercial tourism and wonderful scenic beauty, there are unknown travel destinations in Karnataka perfect for your next holiday, away from people. Here check out a list of lesser-known options:

Honnemardu

A quaint village in Karnataka, this place is a natural rural beauty that offers visitors adventurous water-sport activities. It is pretty close to the popular Talaguppa or Jog Falls. The place sees a lot of picnickers from nearby cities of Karnataka. It overlooks the backwaters of Sharavathi river (Linganamakki reservoir) in Sagara taluk. The banks of the reservoir are known for camping, bird watching, trekking and sun set views.

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Dandeli situated on the banks of river Kali is one of the picturesque attractions in Karnataka. Spread over an impressive area of 834 sq. Km. this is one of the largest wildlife parks in Karnataka. The rich forested areas with canopy of bamboo and deciduous trees. Teeming with wild animals such as leopards, elephants, antelopes, tigers, bears, reptiles (snakes and crocodiles). Visitors enjoy water sport activities like river rafting and kayaking. The place is haven for trekkers and mountain bikers.

Water Sports, Dandeli

Yana Rocks

Yana is a small village known for the unique rock formations. Named as Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara, these rocks are connected with mythological stories. The beautiful canopy of cloud cover over the place, especially in the rainy season and the chilly winters is enchanting to watch. Dotted with rocky formations, this hill station has scenic green grassy carpets and the imposing Sahyadri mountains in the backdrop. Attractions include the limstone peaks known as Mohini and Bhairaveshwara peak. It also has a popular Shiva temple.

Yana Rocks

St Mary’s Islands

It is a set of four islands off the coast of Malpe, Udupi. The St. Mary’s Islands are among the last few unexplored beaches in India. Known for their famous hexagonal basalt rocks which are formed due to volcanic lava drying up, these islands have been declared as an important site for Geo tourism in Karnataka. The beaches and surrounding waters are unbelievably pristine and taking those two boat rides from Malpe to reach here is definitely worth it.

Agumbe

Agumbe is a small hill station situated in Shimoga. It is also called as ‘Cherrapunji of the South’ as it is one of the wettest places in the region. So, it is one of the must visit places in Karnataka. It is a favourite of photographers and adventure freaks. Trekking here is a heavenly experience as the extremely green terrain and multitude of waterfalls burst into life during the monsoons.