Your guess is right! we have gone on a group weekend trip after a long gap post covid lockdowns. It was a usual affair for us to plan weekend trips while working from office pre covid times. Once our office moved to work from the home environment then we all are forced to defer our plans.
Thanks to the covid vaccination and opening up of hospitality services. We are a bunch of office friends who definitely need breaks from work to get ourselves rejuvenated. We have been doing trips to the Malnad region for several years through Travel Malnad® and there is a special reason to write this blog post dedicated to all those who are planning future trips.
You can consider this a pre-checked holiday checklist to Malnad for your own weekend or a long-duration holiday planner to Malnad. This region in Karnataka can be called a complete holiday zone. You can expect adventure, pilgrimage, rejuvenation, and great hospitality clubbed as one package.
Coming back to what I and my friends were planning this time. We were looking to rent a full villa or cottage right in the heart of an estate next to the river. It was very easy to locate and book since we are registered with Travel Malnad®. It took us only a few minutes to locate and then choose for reservation with the best offers.
Where did we travel in Malnad?
We chose to cover places in and around Thirthahalli in Malnad region. We took itinerary advice from the Travel Malnad® team to create our own customized trip planner. We could compare homestays in Thirthahalli using the portal and decide on our plan quickly with honest feedbacks and inputs from travel experts.
We picked Malnad because we wanted to explore Thirthahalli Homestays and places of interest. There are many historically popular places in Thirthahalli where you can also expect an adventure like trekking. We trekked to Kavaledurga fort on the weekend and my god it’s so beautiful that we just don’t want to come back to our homestay.
You need to be aware that camping and overnight staying at any hills in Karnataka is banned. Especially if it is an archeological site then you don’t think of it even for fun. Do not fall prey to Instagram and Facebook users who promise you lucrative deals and things like camping and adventure in the hills. Always book your trip to Malnad with reputed and long-serving companies originally from the Malnad region.
Our host at the homestay was very friendly and we could feel that he was genuine and not commercial about his hospitality. My mother used to tell me that people in Malnad are very nice. I must say that Malnad Homestays are the best for your trip because you will get the best rooms, the best food, and the best host.
Sightseeing Places we covered in Thirthahalli:
Kavaledurga
Early morning trek to Kavaledurga fort will be the most rejuvenating experience you can have. We had early breakfast at the homestay and started towards Kavaledurga in our private cars. We also stopped at many places en route to Kavaledurga just to take selfies and photos with nature. The stretch between Thirthahalli and Kavaledurga is so scenic that we actually spent time doing a lot of photoshoots.
Kuppalli
This place is also called Kavishaila and is the birthplace of Kannada Poet and Writer Kuvempu. There is a museum, hilltop where you see the memorial for the poet. If you are someone who loves to go for a nice walk to the hills and come back refreshed then this is the best place for you. Besides these things, there is a beautiful Thottimane house originally belonging to the Kuvempu family and has now been made into a Museum.
Sakrebylu
This place is actually between Shimoga and Thirthahalli highway. You can travel after reaching Thirthahalli or if you are there between 10am or 11am then you can visit this place as it’s an elephant camp and there will be Jumbos playing there till 12 noon only. There are a lot of hotels and eateries to try out. If you love fish then there are multiple seafood restaurants along the highway towards Thirthahalli.
Chibbalagudde
As Travel Malnad punch line goes ‘Leave the Road & Take the Trails”. This place is not very popular but a must-visit when you are in Thirthahalli for a trip. It is similar to Sringeri where you see fish in the river and can feed them rice. The Ganesha temple is ancient and very beautiful. We all took the blessings of Lord Ganesha and reached our homestay for evening coffee.
If you are in Thirthahalli during December end or early January then there is a possibility for your to witness ‘Yellamasye Jathre’. It is the most beautiful fair that happens in the entire Malnad region. People come from different parts of the country just to witness this grandeur.
We were lucky to have witnessed the grand fair at Thirthahalli called ‘Yellamasye Jathre’. We had tried the best food at Thirthahalli, stayed at the most beautiful stays recommended, and booked by TravelMalnad.com team. We are very grateful for the entire team at Travel Malnad for being so helpful at all times.
When visiting Thirthahalli, a small town located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India, there are several important things to keep in mind. Here are some key points to note:
Climate: Thirthahalli experiences a tropical climate with moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September) and pleasant weather during the rest of the year. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip and carry appropriate clothing.
Language: The primary language spoken in Thirthahalli is Kannada. While some people may understand and speak English, it is helpful to learn a few basic Kannada phrases or carry a translation guide to communicate effectively.
Transportation: Thirthahalli is well-connected by road. Private buses and taxis are available for travel within the town and to nearby attractions. It is recommended to have your own vehicle or hire one to explore the surrounding areas comfortably.
Accommodation: Thirthahalli offers a range of accommodation options, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Local Cuisine: Thirthahalli is known for its delicious traditional South Indian cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor local delicacies like Akki Rotti (rice flatbread), Kundapura Chicken, Malnad-style Biryani, and various coconut-based dishes.
Places to Visit: Thirthahalli is surrounded by scenic beauty and offers several attractions worth exploring. Some notable places to visit include the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, Kuppalli (birthplace of renowned Kannada poet Kuvempu), Jog Falls (one of the highest waterfalls in India), and the historical Rameshwara Temple.
Cultural Etiquette: While visiting religious sites, it is essential to dress modestly and adhere to local customs and traditions. It is polite to remove your footwear before entering temples and other sacred places.
Wildlife and Nature: Thirthahalli is located in the Malnad region, known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. If you plan to visit forests or wildlife sanctuaries nearby, follow the guidelines provided by authorities, maintain a respectful distance from animals, and refrain from littering.
Local Festivals: Thirthahalli celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm. If your visit coincides with any local festivals, such as Ugadi or the Kuvempu Jayanti, it can be a wonderful opportunity to witness traditional rituals and cultural performances.
Safety and Health: Like any other travel destination, it is important to take necessary safety precautions. Carry a basic first-aid kit, stay hydrated, and be cautious while indulging in adventurous activities. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional regarding any vaccinations or health-related concerns before your trip.
