Where is Western Ghats in Karnataka?
The arrival of the monsoon in India is a phenomenon, specially when it rains in Karnataka. It quite literally is an emotion for the people residing near Western Ghats and its natural wealth. The southern peninsular region of India along its western coastline has a long ridge of mountain ranges called the Western Ghats. These mountain ranges are perfect for monsoon trekking in Karnataka, and the forests that abound it acts as the catchment region for the rains. It has also recently been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The large agrarian population and the life in the rainforests of the Western Ghats come alive in the monsoons, celebrating this time of abundance.
Which is the biggest Ghat in Karnataka?
Agumbe, Karnataka
Located in Malenadu or the hilly regions of Karnataka, Agumbe is famous for its sunsets. It became popular when the television serial, Malgudi Days of RK Narayan was shot here. But it is the wet and wild forests that are home to several snakes and reptiles, including the King Cobra which beckon people.
The Malenadu region is culturally one of the richest with temples and monuments set in the forests and my strong recommendation would be to visit Sringeri, located 28 kms away where Adi Sankaracharya set up his mutt in the South after seeing a snake give a pregnant frog shelter from the rains on the banks of the river Tunga.
Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Right in the heart of the Nilgiris or the Blue Mountains is Coonoor, located very close to Ooty and is one of the pristine hill stations of south india. While the latter gets very crowded in summer, Coonoor is still wrapped in solitude. A serene hill station in the lap of western ghats, Coonoor has so much to offer you. There are several shola forests and trekking routes that await you. For those interested in road trips, drive through these meandering roads hugging the hills with a panoramic view of tea plantations around you. The birds here are endemic and you can spot a bit of wildlife as well. Drive to Kotagiri or Ooty or head up into the hills or relive your childhood and take the toy train or the century old mountain railway up the hills. Indulge yourself in bird watching if that is what that soothes you. This is a perfect getaway from your daily hustle and bustle. Visit with friends or family, Coonoor will always surprise you with its mesmerizing beauty.
Dandeli, Karnataka
Trekking, white water rafting, wildlife safaris – Dandeli has them all. A small town in the Western Ghats, it is also home to the elusive black panther besides leopards. It is an ideal vacation destination in karnataka for those who love nature a lot. The modern town on the river is surrounded by lush green deciduoud forest and a renown wildlife habitat where rare species of both vegetation and animals could be found. The Kali river is a favourite for those who are interested in water sports and white water rafting. As it is just 125 kilometres away from Goa, You can also just drive down to Goa if you are in the mood for a road trip.
Kalpatta, Wayanad, Kerala
Nestled high in the Western Ghats are some of the most dense and ancient forests in Wayanad which have been inhabited during the New Stone Age. Located in Kerala,The forests are rich in vegetation. Wayanad brings out the true beauty of Kerala. The mountain landscapes, tea gardens, astounding breeds of animals, waterfall and what more! You want a flawless selfie in the prime location, i.e. right beside the waterfall, Wayanad is the place to be.
There are caves here that show you some of the ancient paintings from the pre-historic times. The weather here is just appropriate for making tourist to visit this place all throughout the year. Head to Heritage museum if you are a true history lover. Don’t forget to visit Banasura Sagar Dam, Asia’s 2nd largest and India’s largest Earth Dam. Trekking, cave exploration, plantation trails and wildlife safaris – take your pick or just soak in the greenery and relax.
Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Think strawberries and you think of this picturesque destination in the mountains that was once the summer capital of the Britishers. Temples, forests, forts, farms, rivers – Mahabaleshwar has something for everybody. Head to Pratapgadh fort if you are in search of some history digging of maharashtra. You can also visit Venna lake and Parsi point when in Mahabaleshwar. A perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai, I would just recommend a relaxed walk in the woods and getting lost in the world of pristine nature.
Chorla Ghat, Goa
Sharing a border with Karnataka, Maharashtra and Goa, Chorla Ghat is where one must head to this summer if you want to experience nature and forests at its pristine best. It is one of Western Ghats best kept secret. There are many waterfalls around the area which can turn out to be a perfect spot to click pictures or just laze around. The forests are home to endemic birds and butterflies, besides reptiles. you can either bird watch, or butterfly watch or simply soak yourself in the immense beauty of the nature. Hidden waterfalls greet you in the jungles as you trek here. If there is one place that you must go this summer, I would recommend this.
So, what are you waiting for? For more summer travel inspiration, check out our One-Stop Guide for Summer here!
