Karwar
Karwar is a beautiful town in the Uttara Kannada district of the Indian state of Karnataka. Extremely picturesque the town has an ample number of temples, forts and beaches that attract an array of tourists all year round. Located about 15 km south of the border of Karnataka and Goa, Karwar lies some 519 km North west of Bangalore.
The travel guide of the Karwar comprises of references to some of the most scenic and exhilarating spots from the city. It is often regarded as one of the key tourist places from the district.
The Uttara Kannada region is very well recognized for its platonic beauty, natural surroundings, thriving lush hills, exquisite scenery and magnificent mountains that are just a quintessential part of the Western Ghats.
Sadashivgad which is a prominent historical sight of this town lies in proximity to the Kali River Bridge at the confluence of this river with the Arabian Sea. The surroundings here make it an important place to see in Karwar. Since Karwar lies at the border of Karnataka and Maharashtra, the culture here is an amalgam of both Kannada and Marathi cultures. This town is also known as ‘Kone’ by the Southern villagers residing here. This denotes the corner of the region of the Kali river.
Karwar FAQ's
Which are some of the best homestays in Karwar?
1. Ocean Deck Beach Homestay
This cosy, old-fashioned cottage near Devbagh Beach promises a comfortable stay in a picturesque location. The beachfront rooms are equipped with basic facilities and offer unmatched views of the sun rising and setting beyond the vast ocean, across. Packages are inclusive of breakfast and the home-cooked meals prepared here are lip-smackingly good!
The property is located only 250 metres from Devbagh Beach and if you want to escape further into the interiors of Karwar, simply hire a boat and head to Devbagh Island, which is in close proximity.Ocean Deck Beach Homestay is also known for the amazing water sports, boat rides, nature walks, and treks it organizes. So make sure to ask the ever-welcoming staff to help you out with those too!
Amenities: Beachfront, Room service, Restaurant, Breakfast included, Pet-Friendly
Location: Nakuda Mohalla, Devbagh, Karwar, Karnataka 581352
Price: Starting at ? 1,800 per night
2. Mahamaya Homestay
Tucked away in the interiors of the city, Mahamaya Homestay is among the most-flocked homestays in Karwar owing to the fact that it offers a host of amenities. The apartment includes a comfortable living room, 2 spacious air-conditioned bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and 3 bathrooms. The property is also popular for its shared lounge, terrace, and a connecting balcony that opens up to enthralling mountain and city views.
Amenities: Shops, Terrace, Mini-market on site, Airport shuttle, Ironing service, Picnic area, Chapel/shrine, Room service, Laundry
Location: Sadanand Complex, 3rd Floor Main Road | Sadashivgad, Karwar 581352, India
Price: Starting at ? 1,400 per night
3. Go Green Homestay
Unique Karwar homestays include the Go Green Homestay which blends well with the greenery around and is committed to sustainable development. The rooms are simple with basic facilities like a seating area and air-conditioning. There’s a pure vegetarian restaurant on site which is a tourist favourite.
The property also offers eye-pleasing views of the private lake and lush garden, nearby. There’s a play area for children, a community hall, and the warm and friendly staff is always eager to arrange for water sports and indoor parties. If you’re a seeker of tranquility and thrill, Go Green is just the place for you!
Amenities: Mountain Views, Outdoor Dining Area, Private Lake/River, Private Garden, Waterfront, Banquet Hall, Community Open Air Theatre, Meeting hall, Children Play Area
Location: Badagani, Haldipur, Honnavar, Karwar, Karnataka 581327
Price: Starting at ? 2,500 per night
Travel Advice
Make sure you have a medical or travel insurance before going to Karwar.
You can easily spot an ATM after a distance of 2-5 km. So, make sure when you go out there is just enough cash that lets you commute and enjoy. Carrying excess cash can be an invitation for pick pockets.
Strictly avoid traveling during the night hours.
Make sure whenever you go in secluded trails or destinations, you are in a group.
Don’t let anyone mislead you. Gather sufficient information whenever you are traveling to a new place.
Stay away from drugs or narcotics in any form.
If you are up for some trekking, do wear comfortable shoes as the trails are steep here.
Carry your first aid kit with you.
Trekkers must have a trekking kit with them.
Dress appropriately if you go to a religious place.
Don’t photograph wherever prohibited.
Film or take videos only with permissions.
Hire a guide only from a reputed agency.
Drinking Law
The legal age for drinking in Karwar is 18 years.
Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?
If legends are to be believed, there is a beach in Karwar that is said to have inspired the great Rabindranath Tagore to pen down his first drama. The river Kali flows through the town into the beautiful Arabian Sea. You can avail motor launches to take a boat ride up to the river Kali. During the months of January or February each there, there is a prominent Karavali Utsav celebrated on the beach. Tourists from round the country come here to partake in this 5 day event.
Devbagh BeachSituated at the junction of the Arabian Sea and River Kali, the Devbagh beach is pleasant and alluring in every way. In order to reach the beach, you’ll have to take a boat ride, that will lead you to the Kodibag coast. This is an excellent attraction for the water sports enthusiasts. Adventure activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving are immensely popular here.
Lady BeachLady Beach lies on the Baithkol bay that is in close proximity to the airport. According to the fables associated with the beach, it is said that the wives of the British officers used to take a bath at this beach during the British rule. This is how the lady beach got its name.
Tilmatti BeachTilmatti Beach is located at a distance of about 4 to 5 km from the Karwar. The beach is known for its natural black sand. This is one thing that makes Tilmatti beach a great sightseeing attraction.
Kurumgad IslandSituated approximately 4 km from the Karwar, the Kurumgad Island lies just a km away from Devbagh Beach. It is an island in the shape of a tortoise and is known majorly for the annual fair that is conducted here during the month of January. During this festival, the devotees from across the country come here in large numbers to catch a glimpse of Lord Narasimha. Some of the most important things to do in Kurumgad island include trekking and fishing. Water sports such as boat rides, tidal pool and snorkeling are also provided by the resorts here
Devgad IslandLying about 3 km from the Karwar Beach, the Devgad Island is largely popular for its Oyster Rocks. It has a gigantic power house that is powered by solar energy. You can reach the beach taking a boat ride of the Baithkol Port in Karwar. This is one of the best ways to spend a complete day in the warmth of the nature. It indeed is one of the best tourist attraction in Karwar.
Sadashivgad FortSadashivgad Fort lies approximately 2 km from the heart of Karwar. The Kali bridge passes amidst the mountain divided it into two halves. On the right end of the mountain, there is a fort on the top that was built by Marathas. Towards the left end of the mountains is the Lover’s point. The scenic view atop the mountains is breathtaking. There is a Durga Devi temple that is located on the top of the mountain. This attracts a lot of tourists. During the period of Vijaya Dashami in October, Bandi habba is celebrated here. Karimuddin Ghouse Jilani’s Dargah also lies in proximity to the temple. It is indeed an important place to see here.
Guddalli PeakGuddalli is a small village that is the base for the trek towards the top most point in Karwar. It is a 6 to 8 km long trek that is a natural trekking trail. The view of the entire town up to the bridge Kali is absolutely lovely. You simply cannot miss this grand tourist destination.
Warship MuseumThe warship museum is open from 9 AM in the morning till 8 PM in the evening. It is a decommissioned warship that is today converted to a museum. Lying on the Rabindranath Tagore beach, this is just third of the kind in the country. It is situated just two km from the city entrance and is situated besides the NH 17. Visiting the museum is definitely an important thing to do here.
Karwar PortIn the Karwar bay there is a Karwar port that has been developed as an all weather port. It is a long quay that is spread over a length of 355 meters and very well accommodates the simultaneous berthing of two ships along with the other coordinating infrastructure facilities. Visitors can visit the port at any time of the day except during the loading or the unloading period of goods from ships.
What you will like there?
Karwar is an incredible place for all the foodies. All the fish eaters, will fall in love with the place all the more. You can find an array of small restaurants here that serve authentic cuisines here. Some of the dishes that you must try in Karwar include Fish biryani, Fish Masala and Rava Fish fry. Now, does that worry you vegetarians? No, no! Don’t fret! There is a great range of dishes to excite you as well. You must try out the exquisite rice combo with the Dal Tohi. Other cuisines to try include the bread fruit starters and Solkadi. You can find the best local food of Karwar at restaurants like Hotel Amrut and Sweta Lunch Home.
Do relish on the finest dessert here which is the Gadbad Ice cream. This ice cream basically is a blend of local ice cream garnished with fruits and nuts.
River RaftingAre you an adventure enthusiast? One of the key water sports that you can enjoy here is river rafting. Just 100 km from the Karwar, lies a town of Dandeli which is only a day trip away. This town lies on the banks of the same river i.e. the river Kali. There are 3 Grade rapids here which will ensure that you have a thrilling rafting experience. Apart from rafting, certain other adventure activities can also be enjoyed here. These include cave exploration, rappelling and kayaking. Bathing in the Natural Jacuzzis is another great thing to do.
Trekking along the rocks60 km from Karwar lies Yana. Yana is basically known for its quirky limestone formations. These are an absolute delight for the rock climbers and trekkers who swamp the area is large numbers. Two key trails here include the – Mohini Shikhara and Bhaiavi Shikhara. There is a temple located amidst these rocks, this makes it an important religious attraction. When you climb the rocks, you’ll explore different caves. Do go on a trail and discover the thrill here.
BeachesKarwar is a mini Goa. So, when you are in the beach town, how can you not be thrilled with the beaches here? The most prominent beach here is the Rabindranath Tagore Beach that is great for swimming and having a lax beach time. Other prominent beaches of Karwar include Devbagh beach, Majalli Beach, Tilamati and Binaga Beach. Do visit these to experience the real scenic beauty of this beautiful city of Karnataka.
SnorkelingThere are a number of adventure centers in Karwar that allow snorkeling. You can go on an excursion tour with either of them and enjoy snorkeling here. Rates here are very reasonable so it definitely doesn’t dig a hole in your pocket. October to February are the best months to enjoy this water sport. On the other times of the year, the water is not as clear so the activity may not be open then.
Dolphin SpottingAvailable round the year, Dolphin Spotting is another fun thing to do in Karwar. This can be a sheer delight especially for the kids. If you are really lucky, you can even spot one of this cute beings jumping off the water. You can enjoy this activity in the Kurumgad Island which can be reached via a 45 minute boat ride journey from the mainland.
