Honnamana Kere Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Honnamana Kere with this comprehensive travel guide, including information on attractions, food, lodging, culture, and more.


Introduction to Honnamana Kere

Honnamana Kere is a picturesque lake located in the Kodagu district of the Indian state of Karnataka. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests, and the cool climate makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Honnamana Kere is also known for its cultural significance as it is believed to be the residence of the deity Honnamma, who is worshipped by the locals. Whether you want to indulge in outdoor activities, explore historical landmarks or simply unwind in the lap of nature, Honnamana Kere has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Honnamana Kere

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Honnamana Kere Temple: Visit the Honnamana Kere Temple to seek the blessings of the deity Honnamma. The temple sees a large number of devotees during the annual Honnamana Jathra.
  • Horatti Huttappa Kere: This lake is located near Honnamana Kere and is home to the Huttari festival that is celebrated annually in November.
  • Omkareshwara Temple: Located in Madikeri, the Omkareshwara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Natural Attractions of Honnamana Kere: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over an area of 102 sq km, the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several species of flora and fauna, including the rare Nilgiri Tahr.
  • Nisargadhama: This ecological park, located on the banks of the River Cauvery, is home to several animals and birds, including deer, rabbits, and peacocks. You can also enjoy activities like boating and elephant rides.
  • Mallalli Falls: Located at the foothills of the Pushpagiri Hills, Mallalli Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Honnamana Kere

  • Pushpagiri Trek: The trek to the Pushpagiri Peak is a challenging one that takes you through lush forests and misty hills. It takes approximately 6 hours to complete the trek.
  • Brahmagiri Trek: This trek takes you through the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and offers stunning vistas of the lush green surroundings. It takes around 8 hours to complete the trek.
  • Honnamana Kere-Bison Valley Trail: This trail is perfect for biking enthusiasts and takes you through scenic routes that offer glimpses of the local wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Honnamana Kere: Activities and Tours

  • Water sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking, rafting, and boating in the cool and pristine waters of Honnamana Kere.
  • Nature walks: Stroll through the lush forests that surround Honnamana Kere and explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Wildlife safaris: Take a tour of the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and spot rare animals like the Nilgiri Tahr and the Malabar Giant Squirrel.

Week-Long Itinerary for Honnamana Kere

Day Activity
1 Visit Honnamana Kere Temple and Horatti Huttappa Kere
2 Trek to Pushpagiri Peak
3 Visit Nisargadhama and Mallalli Falls
4 Explore Madikeri and visit Omkareshwara Temple
5 Enjoy water sports at Honnamana Kere
6 Take a wildlife safari at Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
7 Visit local markets and try local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Honnamana Kere

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pandi Curry: A traditional Kodava dish made with pork and spices. It is served with rice or Akki Roti.
  • Koorma: A spicy chicken or mutton curry that is cooked with coconut and local spices.
  • Kadamuttu: A popular snack made with rice flour and coconut.

Local Beverages

  • Kattu: A traditional Kodava drink made with fermented rice and spices.
  • Coffee: The coffee grown in the region is famous for its rich flavor and aroma.

Where to Stay in Honnamana Kere: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Windflower Resorts and Spa: A luxurious resort that offers panoramic views of Honnamana Kere.
  • Red Earth Resort: A rustic resort that offers a unique experience of staying in tents that are equipped with modern amenities.
  • Coorg Cliffs Resorts: A budget-friendly resort that is located close to several tourist attractions.

What to Buy in Honnamana Kere: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Coorg coffee: The coffee grown in the region is famous for its rich flavor and aroma.
  • Spices: Buy local spices like pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.
  • Handicrafts: Buy unique handicrafts made by the local artisans like bamboo baskets, handmade candles, and wooden toys.

Local Culture and Customs of Honnamana Kere

The people of Honnamana Kere are predominantly Kodavas, and they are known for their unique culture and traditions. The Kodavas are a martial race, and their traditional attire includes the Kupya or the jacket, and the Pache or the turban. The Kodavas also have several unique festivals like the Huttari, which is celebrated in November, and the annual Honnamana Jathra, which sees a large number of devotees.

Best Time to Visit Honnamana Kere

The best time to visit Honnamana Kere is from September to May when the weather is pleasant, and you can indulge in various outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Honnamana Kere

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the temples and other religious places.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter the surroundings or disturb the local wildlife.
  • Pluck flowers or plants from the forests.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Honnamana Kere

Honnamana Kere is a safe destination for tourists, but it is always advised to take necessary precautions like avoiding traveling alone at night and not leaving your belongings unattended.

Health in Honnamana Kere

Make sure to carry necessary medicines and consult your doctor before embarking on any outdoor activities. It is also important to stay hydrated and avoid consuming street food.

Getting to Honnamana Kere: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Honnamana Kere

The nearest airport to Honnamana Kere is the Kannur International Airport, which is around 116 km away.

Bus Stations Near Honnamana Kere

The nearest bus station to Honnamana Kere is the Virajpet Bus Station, which is around 12 km away.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi or take a private car to reach Honnamana Kere from nearby cities like Bangalore and Mysore.

How to Get Around in Honnamana Kere

The best way to get around Honnamana Kere is by hiring a taxi or renting a car. You can also explore the region on foot or by bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Honnamana Kere: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Coorg: Visit the scenic hill station of Coorg, which is located just 25 km away from Honnamana Kere.
  • Wayanad: Explore the picturesque hill station of Wayanad, which is located around 125 km away from Honnamana Kere.
  • Mysore: Visit the historic city of Mysore, which is located around 120 km away from Honnamana Kere.

Conclusion

Honnamana Kere is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and culture. Whether you want to explore the natural beauty of the region, indulge in outdoor activities, or simply relax in the lap of nature, Honnamana Kere has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Honnamana Kere and make the most of your visit.

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