Located on the backwaters of the River Sharavathi, Honnemaradu is an excellent tourist spot in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka. This place is in the Sagara Taluk of Karnataka, approximately 35 km from Sagara. The place seems to have derived its name from a tree that can be spotted in the region, the Honne Tree. This place’s literal and precise meaning is a ‘Golden Lake’. Honnemaradu is famous as it showcases beautiful landscapes and multiple outdoor activities. The place has a separate provision for experiencing several water sports like kayaking or trekking through the dense forests.
About Honnemaradu
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This small village is located on the hills and overlooks the reservoir of Linganamakki. This reservoir is also known as Honnemaradu, after the name of this village. A small island is perched in between the waters of this water body. Campers usually flock to this place as it is an ideal camping site. Along with visitors performing adventurous activities, birdwatching is also widely appreciated here. This place is home to a diverse range of birds and butterflies. Located in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, Honnemaradu falls on the backwaters of the River Sharavati. The reservoir is mostly visited to witness the views of sunrise and sunset, which are outstanding. The reservoir at Honnemaradu is also known as the ‘Golden Lake’. This area allows trekking and camping activities to be carried out in the designated area.
Must Read: Tourist Places Near Jog Falls
Places To Visit Near Honnemaradu
Exploring the vicinity of Honnemaradu brings you a variety of other tourist spots that are not to be missed. These notable places offer an enriching experience.
1). Jog Falls
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Jog Falls is also located on the River Sharavati in Karnataka. The waterfall depends on the rainy season to become a plunging waterfall. The water cascades from a height of 253 metres. Built around the Linganamakki Dam, a power station has been operated near this waterfall. This power station is one of the largest hydroelectric stations in India. Visiting this peaceful site during monsoons is recommended to glance at the fantastic view of water cascading down the falls. Nature lovers appreciate this spectacle of water rushing down the rugged cliffs.
Location: Jog Falls, Sagara Taluk, Shimoga District, Karnataka
Distance From Honnemardu: 26 km
2). Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary
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A part of the river basin of Sharavati was established into a wildlife sanctuary. It is spread over an area of 431 kilometres. The sanctuary has a dense forest with evergreen and semi-evergreen trees. The temperature of the sanctuary ranges from 15 degrees Celsius to 38 degrees Celsius. A wide range of deciduous forests is also found in the region. The place is home to the endangered species of lion-tailed macaque. Tourists can also spot tigers, jackals, wild boars, sloth bears, porcupines and otters. Birds like hornbill, paradise flycatcher and racket-tailed drongo are also spotted.
Location: Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary, Sagara Taluk, Shimoga District, Karnataka
Distance From Honnemardu: 20.7 km
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Coorg
3). Ikkeri
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It is a small hamlet situated in the Sagara Taluk of Karnataka. There lies a beautiful temple dedicated to an avatar of Lord Shiva. Aghoreshwara Temple is a vast temple built of granite stone. It has a unique architecture and a blend of Hoysala and Vijayanagara styles. The temple comprises three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Parvati and Nandi. Visitors can glance at the beautifully carved pillars. The temple faces north and has carved doorways with ancient designs and floral motifs. Two elephants, both on the left and right side, are found at the entrance of the north gate.
Location: Ikkeri, Sagara Taluk, Shimoga District, Karnataka
Distance From Honnemardu: 29.5 km
Things To Do In Honnemaradu
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Nestled in the serene landscapes of Karnataka, this place lets visitors try numerous things. The backwaters and the forest offer adventurous activities.
- Watersports: Tourists are recommended to try Kayaking and Canoeing. Paddling through the calm waters of the reservoir lets you embrace the beauty that Honnemaradu has to offer.
- Boating: Coracle Rides are very famous at this place. Guided by skilled local men or fishers, try exploring the backwaters on this traditional boat.
- Birdwatching: Honnemaradu is home to several avian species. It is suggested to perform bird-watching activities at this place or take a route to the nearby Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary which has a diverse range of flora and fauna.
- Photography: The reservoir around this region is locally called the Honnemaradu Reservoir. It is also known as the ‘Golden Lake’ because of its beautiful sunset and sunrise views and the beams of sun falling on the water worthy of capturing photographs.
Suggested Read: Burude Falls
Cuisine Of Honnemaradu
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Honnemaradu has many light and delightful dishes in its cuisine. Tourists love these typical dishes and have an enjoyable experience.
- Bisi Bele Bhath: Bisi Bele Bhath is a yummy rice dish cooked with lentils. Finely chopped vegetables and a spicy rice masala made with local spices are added. It is served hot for lunch or dinner.
- Neer Dosa: Neer Dosa is a speciality of this region. It is served with either coconut or tomato chutney. Sometimes it is enjoyed with curries for breakfast or lunch.
- Mysore Pak: Despite the name, this sweet dish is enjoyed in Honnemaradu too. Mysore Pak is made with gram flour, ghee and sugar. It is a rich and elegant dish served after lunch or dinner.
- Karnataka Thali: This is so yummy yet heavy because of its numerous items. A traditional Karnataka Thali is served on a banana leaf and consists of Rice, Sambar, Rasam, Kosambari, and palya. A dessert called Payasam is also served.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Badami
Honnemaradu is both a peaceful place and an adventurous spot in Karnataka. Tourists visiting this place often experience immense outdoor excitement. Be it for a weekend getaway or a proper tour, your trip to Karnataka will be a worthy one. The place has numerous accessible tourist spots that guests can witness. It permits trekking in designated areas only with guides and experienced individuals. It is a significant place for performing water sports in the backwaters of the River Sharavati. The island between the reservoir is a camping site where tourists indulge in bird-watching activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Honnemaradu
What is Honnemaradu famous for?
Honnemaradu is famous for its reservoir. The reservoir is also known as the ‘Golden Lake’. The place is mostly visited by locals and tourists to embrace the breathtaking views of sunset and sunrise.
Which district is Honnemaradu in?
Honnemaradu is located in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka. Honnemaradu is situated on the backwaters of the River Sharavati in the Sagara Taluk of Shimoga District of Karnataka.
What is Susunia Hill famous for?
Susunia Hill is considered to be older than the Himalayas. History says that Raja Chandravarman built his fort on this hill. Susunia Hill is home to a variety of animal species like the Giraffe, Asiatic Lion, Hyena and others.
Is Susunia a volcano?
It is said that this hill has emerged because of the striking of igneous rocks. Geologists believe that Susunia Hill is actually a volcano which has remained inactive for years. It is also identified as a dead volcano hill.
What is Talaguppa famous for?
Talaguppa is located 14 km from Sagara Taluk and at the same distance from the Jog Falls. It is famous for its proximity to Jog Falls, which is the highest waterfall not only in Karnataka but throughout India.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
