Facts to know about Malnad region in Karnataka

Malnad is a region known among people of South India for its beautiful forests and The Western Ghats Belt. Besides being a hub for tourism and experiential holiday destination the region is also famous for many facts. You can call Malnad a wonderland because many famous personalities in arts, literature, politics, and science are from the Malnad region. You might have heard about many facts on Malnad and we are only trying to add a few more points to your list.

Popular facts about the Malnad region in Karnataka:

The region receives the highest rainfall in Karnataka
The Malnad region has the highest lands utilized for agriculture and for growing commercial crops.
The region is one of the top destinations in India for nature holidays
National laureate Kuvempu is from the Malnad region.
Malnad has some of the highest mountain peaks in Karnataka.
Malnad has been ruled by several kings and queens.
You will find several forts, palaces, and ancient temples.
Major waterfalls of Karnataka
World Famous Jog Falls is in the Malnad region

There are many more interesting things to learn about Malnad. You will see the highest number of spices and commercial crops grown in the Malnad region. If you love agritourism then you must visit this region for your next vacation. There are many waterfalls where you can get into the water and play with your family. If you are an adventure seeker, then you can expect a lot of trekking trails in and around your malnad homestay. We can help you organize a well-planned trip with stays and an itinerary. You can customize your trip with elements you prefer to be added and save money. We are in the tourism industry for more than 12 years and have been creating thousands of happy travelers every year.

The Malnad region of Karnataka is a treasure trove of natural beauty, culture, and history. Here are some interesting facts about Malnad:

🌿 Geography & Nature

Malnad means "land of rain" — it's derived from "Male" (hill) and "Nadu" (land) in Kannada.
It's part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s eight "hottest hotspots" of biodiversity.
Malnad receives very high rainfall — places like Agumbe and Hulikal are among the wettest in India.
It's home to dense rainforests, numerous rivers (Tunga, Bhadra, Sharavathi), and many majestic waterfalls like Jog Falls, Hebbe Falls, and Kalhatti Falls.
The region is rich in medicinal plants and endemic species like the Lion-tailed macaque and Malabar civet.

🌾 Agriculture & Economy

Malnad is a major producer of arecanut (betel nut), coffee, pepper, cardamom, and paddy.
It's known for organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices.
The arecanut grown here is in high demand and contributes significantly to the region's economy.

🏛️ History & Culture

Malnad has a rich heritage of temples and Hoysala architecture — examples include the Amruteshwara Temple in Amruthapura and Sri Chennakeshava Temple in Belur.
The region was historically part of the Hoysala, Vijayanagara, and Keladi Nayaka kingdoms.
Yakshagana and Bayalata (folk theatre forms) are culturally significant and widely performed in Malnad.
Sanskrit and Kannada scholarship have deep roots in this region, especially around Sringeri.

🧘‍♂️ Spiritual & Pilgrimage Centers

Sringeri Sharada Peetham, one of the four Advaita Vedanta mathas established by Adi Shankaracharya, is in Malnad.
Kollur Mookambika Temple, a revered shrine for both Hindus and those seeking education, is on the border of Malnad.

🚗 Travel & Tourism

Malnad is a rising eco-tourism hub, popular for homestays, trekking, wildlife tours, and waterfall trails.
Hill stations like Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, and Agumbe are crowd favorites.
The region is less commercialized compared to Coorg or Ooty, offering authentic, rustic experiences.