Did you know there were some spectacular albeit unexplored hill stations in Karnataka? Lured by the remarkable landscapes in Kerala and the shimmering beaches of Goa, many tourists do not realize that Karnataka offers an abundance of both these attractions. While there may be no hill stations in Bangalore, there are several amazing ones nearby replete with clear water bodies and myriad landscapes. Take a break from everyday mundane life and visit some of these stunning places in Karnataka.
Lesser-known Hill Stations in Karnataka List:
The unexplored hill stations in Karnataka are perfect for honeymooning couples, families, youngsters traveling with friends, and people from all possible walks of life! Board a couple of cheap last minute flights in case you’re short on time to make flight reservations in advance. Here’s our list of some such spectacular hill stations in Karnataka you can visit on your next vacation.
Agumbe
Located about 45 km from Udupi, Agumbe hill stations Karnataka is among the most stunning places to visit in the state. Blessed with abundant beauty and magnificent views, Agumbe is a must-visit especially for verdant slopes and the adjoining rainforest. Perched at a height of over 800 meters above sea level, Agumbe lies in the Shimoga district and offers breathtaking views of the scenic Western Ghats. Top attractions you can explore here include Agumbe Peak, Jogigundi Falls, Gopalakrishna Temple, and Koodlu Theertha Falls.
Kemmangundi
One of the most picturesque unexplored hill stations in Karnataka, Kemmangundi is a hit among youngsters down south. Forming an important part of the Chikmagalur district hill stations in Karnataka, it is the ideal summer retreat. With stunning landscapes and exciting hiking routes, the Kemmangundi hill stations Karnataka draws a large number of experienced as well as amateur trekkers. Places of interest include the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kemmangundi Z point.
Masinagudi
Masinagudi lies on the Mysore-Ooty highway and is among the most scenic albeit unexplored hill stations in Karnataka. A popular camping spot, the forested hill station is located in close proximity to the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. While trekking and other adventure sports can be done here, the hill station is an absolute paradise for bird watchers. You can spot exquisite species such as hornbills, crested serpent eagles, and woodpeckers among others. If you wish, you can head over to the more popular Ooty which lies a mere 32 km from here.
Horsley Hills
Although among the popular hill stations in Karnataka, Horsley Hills remains largely unexplored because it’s visited lesser than the others. However, replete with breathtaking natural landscape, offering great mountain views, and with a pleasant weather all year round, it definitely warrants a visit. Horsley Hills is a great option especially if you happen to be a nature-cum-animal enthusiast. The hills and their surrounding region house some spectacular wildlife species you can spot while enjoying a nature walk.
Devarayanadurga
One of the best unexplored hill stations in Karnataka to visit when arriving on economy or business class flights, Devarayanadurga offers exceptional beauty to behold. Holding immense religious significance, scores of devotees and pilgrims flock here to visit temples such as the Bhoga Narasimha Temple, Lakshmi Temple, and Yoga Narasimha Temple among others. Some of the temples here are reportedly thousands of years old. The nearby hillocks are a good place to go on short treks.
Kudremukh
Located at a distance of about 58 km from Mangalore, this remarkable hill station was once a mining zone. Today, it serves as an awesome weekend getaway from Bengaluru and derives its name from a local crowning point which resembles a horse’s head from a particular angle. A nature photographer’s delight, Kudremukh is replete with lush greenery and has scores of water streams running through it. Towards the top on the spectacular hill stations in Karnataka list, it’s is among the best places to go trekking.
Gangamoola
One of the hidden jewels of the region, Gangamoola is among the most magnificent unexplored hill stations in Karnataka. It’s the origin point of the important rivers of Netravati and Tungabhadra. Enveloped by spectacular dense forests, there is beauty in every corner of this lesser-known hill station. It’s a good place for families to visit together. It’s also a great place to enjoy trekking with friends. You can also visit a temple here that’s dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi.
Coorg
While it’s not unpopular, it has remained one of the fairly unexplored hill stations in Karnataka because fewer people visit it in comparison to more popular ones such as Nandi Hills and Chikmagalur. Offering the perfect recipe to de-stress, Coorg is home to spectacular lush green expanses, a tranquil ambiance, and sparkling waterfalls. The Namdroling Tibetan settlement is one of the best places to visit in Coorg. To de-stress the ideal way, book cheap flights with Indian Eagle and fly down for a visit to this phenomenal hill station in Karnataka!
