Located in the foothills of Western Ghats in the region of Malnad, Sakleshpur is a hill station draped with wide orchards of coffee, tea, and spice plantations. During the reign of the Hoysala empire between the 10th and the 14th century, a broken shivling was found and named Sakleshwara, giving rise to the name Sakleshpur. Offering something for everyone, there are many places to visit in Sakleshpur from an old fort, waterfalls, hiking trails, dense rainforest, historical temples to mountain peaks.
Home to many plants and animals including some endemic and endangered species, it is one of the 18 most diverse spots in the world. With mountains like Jenukal Gudda, Agni Gudda, Ombattu Gudda and Pandavar Gudda, trekking has become a popular activity here.
The best time to visit Sakleshpur is during the cooler months of October and March. The temperature comes down to 15° C during peak winter, while in peak summer, the temperature rises as much as 35° C. A getaway to Sakleshpur will light up your holiday and give you an extraordinary experience like never before.
Here Are The 12 Best Places To Visit In Sakleshpur
1. An Adventurous Getaway for Nature Lovers: Bisle View Point
Surrounded by a dense forest, streams and waterfalls, Bisle Ghat Viewpoint in the Bisle Reserve Forest is a trekker’s paradise. The three mountain ranges namely Dodda Betta-Yenikallu Betta, Pushpagiri and Kumara Parvatha along with the river Giri attracts tourists for its panoramic views. Being a protected region without human occupancy, the forest department created a shelter at the viewpoint to enjoy the mountains. You can explore the heavenly scenery and enjoy trekking up to the vantage point. You can also spot some diverse wild animals like monkeys, peacocks, elephants, and spotted deer when passing through the reserve forest. Offering an adventurous getaway for nature lovers, Bisle View Point is one of the best places to see in Sakleshpur.
Timings: 6 AM-6.30 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
2. Famed For Rath Yatra: Sakleshwara Temple
A testimony to the excellent craftsmanship of Hoysala architecture, the Sri Sakleshwara Swamy Temple is one of the most peaceful tourist places to visit in Sakleshpur. Famed for its annual rath yatra in February, the temple has a gigantic statue of Shiva that captures everyone’s eye and offers a wonderful view from the banks of the river Hemavathi. Built during the 11th to 14th century, the town derived its name from this temple. Smaller than the standard south Indian temple, thousands of devotees visit during the rath yatra to take part in the parade. Sri Sakleshwar Swamy Temple is also one of the oldest temples of Karnataka.
Timings: 6 AM-6 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
Also Read: 10 ancient temples in India that are worth the visit
3. A Star-Shaped Fort: Manjarabad Fort
Built by Tipu Sultan, Manjarabad Fort showcases the brilliance of Islamic architecture in India. One of the best places to see in Sakleshpur, it boasts an interesting octagonal design made of granite which attracts a number of visitors. At an elevation of 3240 ft, the aerial view of this fort offers a wonderful star-shaped appearance. Manjarabad Fort was built as a frontier to store ammunition for the protection of Tipu Sultan’s army against the British. Tourists can also observe numerous chambers built within the fort and the tunnel that leads to Srirangapatna Fort. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the fort boasts views of sprawling vistas of the Western Ghats on a clear day.
Timings: 8 AM-6 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
Also Read: 8 of the most stunning forts in India
4. Popularly Known As Fiery Mountain: Agni Gudda Hill
Often called a trekker’s delight, Agni Gudda Hill is one of the best tourist spots in Sakleshpur. Popularly known as the fiery mountain for its volcanic nature, it is accessible from Agani village by a 3 km trek of one hour. You can have a picnic and get a clear view of the plains filled with paddy fields from the summit. A popular spot to camp overnight, you can enjoy the magical starlit view of the sky. With various south Indian movie scenes shot here, Agni Gudda Hill is sure to get you all fired up and offer a calming respite from the monotony.
Timings: 6 AM-6 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
5. A Popular Picnic Spot: Manjehalli Waterfalls
With gushing water and lush greenery, Manjehalli Waterfalls is one of the best tourist spots to visit in Sakleshpur. Also known as Abbi Falls, this place serves as a picnic spot for tourists. The best time to visit the 20 ft long waterfall is during monsoon. The one-kilometre trek through Manjehalli village to the waterfall passes through coffee plantations that give you an opportunity to interact with the villagers. One of the best things to do in Sakleshpur is to bask in the serenity of nature at Manjehalli Waterfalls through an overnight camp with your family and friends for an unforgettable retreat.
Timings: 7 AM-5.30 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
6. The Abode Of Nagas: Kukke Subramanya Temple
Dedicated to the lord of all serpents, Kartikeya in the form of Subrahmanya, the Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is a famous Hindu temple that provides tranquillity like no other. One of the top tourist spots to see in Sakleshpur, the temple makes for a delightful attraction whether you wish to explore the wonderful natural landscape that surrounds this place or are intrigued by Indian mythology. Located in the heart of the village of Subrahmanya, in Dakshina Kannada, the temple is considered to be the abode of nagas (divine beings supposed to be half human and half snake). Considered to be the ultimate place to attain salvation, devotees also believe that skin related diseases get cured here. Before entering this holy place, pilgrims are supposed to cross the Kumaradhara River and take a holy dip.
Timings : 5 AM-8 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
7. Seek Tranquillity Amidst Nature: Betta Byraveshwara Temple
Surrounded by serenity, Betta Byraveshwara Temple is a 600-year-old ancient temple that is encompassed by hills all around. Nestled in the Western Ghats it is one of the top places to visit in Sakleshpur. It is popularly believed that the Pandavas, in ‘Mahabharata’, stayed here for a short while when they were exiled. An excellent tourist spot, this temple acts as a magnet for travellers who seek to embrace calmness and admire nature.
Timings: 6 AM-5 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
8. Dive Into Chilly Waters: Hadlu Waterfall
A famous trekking destination, Hadlu Waterfalls is one of the best places to visit in Sakleshpur for those who are looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Showcasing rich biodiversity, the icy waterfalls can be reached after a memorable trek through the verdant coffee plantations and forests that decorate the trail. A summer retreat to Hadlu waterfalls is a rejuvenating experience where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city along with friends and families. One of the fun things to do in Sakleshpur is taking a bath in the chilly waters of the Hadlu waterfalls. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the mesmerising nature of this place.
Timings: 7 AM-5.30 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
9. The Second Highest Peak In Karnataka: Jenukal Gudda
Also known as ‘honey stone mountain’ or Hodachalli, Jenukal Gudda is one of the top tourist places to see in Sakleshpur. An 8 km trek to the second highest peak in Karnataka, Jenukal will treat you to the views of the Arabian Sea along with coffee plantations, green woods and peaks, namely the Sheshaparvata, Ettina Bhuja, and Kumara Parvatha. Flocked by tourists, you can view the most unforgettable sunsets and click pictures to take back a memory of the trip to remember for life. Along with a panoramic view of various hills, you can trek to Jenukallu Peak from Pandavar Gudda or the Betta Byraveshwara Temple. One should avoid climbing during monsoon as these paths become slippery.
Timings: 24 hours.
Entry Fee: None.
10. A Glimpse Of Coffee And Spice Cultivation: Raxidi Estate
Located at a distance of 10 kms from Sakleshpur, Raxidi Estate is where coffee and different spices are cultivated. You can get an interesting glimpse of village life via a visit to this small hamlet. Offering panoramic views of the aromatic coffee plantations, Raxidi Estate is one of the best tourist spots to visit in Sakleshpur for nature lovers to enjoy some quiet time. Another fun thing to do in Sakleshpur is to interact with cultivators to gain knowledge about the onerous tasks that they perform and the process that goes into making the coffee and spices that one consumes every day.
Timings: 24 hours.
Entry Fee: None.
11. Seek Blessings: Ayyappa Swami Temple
Located in Sakleshpur Lake Park, Ayyappa Swami Temple is visited by many tourists in Sakleshpur for a refreshing getaway. Surrounded by a picturesque landscape, you can get a glimpse of forests, river valleys and animals. One of the best tourist spots to visit in Sakleshpur, you can enjoy a quiet morning or a leisurely evening stroll with beautiful sun rays greeting your face. A prominent temple in Sakleshpur, it is suitable for a visit with friends and family.
Timings: 6 AM-8 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
12. A Water Sports Destination: Hemavathi Reservoir
Built across the river Hemavathi in 1979, Hemavathi Reservoir, also known as Gorur Dam, offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, the Manjarabad Fort, coffee plantation, the Shettihalli Church, and more. A tributary of the Cauvery river, Hemavathi is famous for kayaking, swimming, boating, banana-boat rides, rope crossing and even peaceful picnics at the lush garden on its banks surrounded by a forest. The 58-metre-high dam looks magnificent with open gates when the water gushes down forcefully through the 8501-hectares-large reservoir. One of the best tourist places to visit in Sakleshpur, you will also be able to spot various endemic birds in the early mornings.
Timings: 8 AM-6 PM.
Entry Fee: None.
Why Should You Visit Sakleshpur?
A fertile land with abundant flora and fauna, Sakleshpur provides the perfect experience of the rural culture and tradition of Karnataka in its pristine natural beauty. Offering a delightful experience for naturalists and trekking enthusiasts, there is an array of places to visit in Sakleshpur. You can trek the surrounding rainforests, try your hand at farming in a homestay, visit a historic fort or just relax in the serenity, you will learn something new about yourself. The lush green hills of this mesmerising town intrigues tourists to visit this place and enjoy the beauty of it.
While travelling to a new place like Sakleshpur, we should always respect the culture and religion of that place and try to connect with the local people. As a responsible traveller, one should not litter the place but instead help keep it clean and try to adopt green methods while travelling. We should practice buying goods from local markets; it not only reduces the fossil fuel used and greenhouse gases, but also supports the cultural heritage and economy of that place.
A weekend getaway to Sakleshpur will guarantee that you disconnect from the toil of daily life and bring you closer to the ways of the soul. There are a number of tourist places to visit and fun things to do in Sakleshpur that you won’t get bored of. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, plan a trip to Sakleshpur and enjoy!
