Byndoor Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Byndoor with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Byndoor

Located in Karavali in the Udupi district of Karnataka, Byndoor is a small town nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. With its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, Byndoor is a popular tourist destination in Southern India. This travel guide will help you plan your trip to Byndoor by providing information about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Byndoor

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Byndoor is a town steeped in history and culture. The following are some of the most significant cultural attractions in Byndoor:

  • Kshitija Nesara Dhama: A religious and cultural center that celebrates the art and culture of the Tulu-speaking people.
  • Kodachadri: A popular trekking destination with historical and religious significance.
  • Mahakali Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, located on the banks of the Souparnika River.
  • Belle Kalungar Temple: A popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a stunning view of the Western Ghats.
  • Kollur Mookambika Temple: A famous temple dedicated to the goddess Mookambika, located about 31 kilometers from Byndoor.

Natural Attractions of Byndoor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Byndoor is surrounded by lush forests, picturesque waterfalls, and stunning beaches. The following are some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Byndoor:

  • Jog Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in India, located about 81 kilometers from Byndoor.
  • Kudumari Falls: A picturesque waterfall located in a dense forest, approximately 26 kilometers from Byndoor.
  • Kotathattu Gudda: A scenic hilltop with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Kundapur Beach: A beautiful beach with golden sand and clear waters, located about 43 kilometers from Byndoor.
  • Turtle Bay Beach Resort: A popular beach resort with a private beach, spa, and other amenities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Byndoor

Byndoor is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by hills and forests with many hiking and biking trails to explore. The following are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Byndoor:

  • Kodachadri Trek: A challenging trek through the dense forests of the Western Ghats, with stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology Cycling Trail: A beautiful cycling trail that takes you through the countryside around Byndoor, with views of the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats.
  • Kundapur to Maravanthe Beach Cycling Trail: A scenic cycling route that takes you through the countryside to the beautiful Maravanthe Beach.

Best Things to Do in Byndoor: Activities and Tours

Byndoor offers many activities and tours for tourists to enjoy. The following are some of the best things to do in Byndoor:

  • Backwater Kayaking: Take a kayaking tour of the backwaters around Byndoor, which is a great way to explore the nature and wildlife of the area.
  • Trekking: Go trekking through the Western Ghats, which is one of the best ways to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
  • Boat Rides: Take a boat ride on the Souparnika River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests.
  • Visit a Spice Farm: Take a tour of a spice farm in Byndoor and learn about the various spices that are grown in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Byndoor

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Byndoor, the following itinerary will help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Byndoor and spend the day relaxing at your hotel
2 Visit the Kshitija Nesara Dhama and learn about Tulu culture
3 Trek to Kodachadri and enjoy the stunning views
4 Visit the Mahakali Temple and the Belle Kalungar Temple
5 Relax at Kundapur Beach or take a boat ride on Souparnika River
6 Go backwater kayaking or take a spice farm tour
7 Explore other nearby attractions and depart

Food and Drink Scene of Byndoor

Byndoor is known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, which has been influenced by the Tulu and Konkani cultures. The following are some of the must-try dishes in Byndoor:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kori Rotti: A popular dish made with dry chicken curry and crispy rice wafers.
  • Neer Dosa: A thin, soft crepe made from rice batter, served with a coconut chutney.
  • Goli Baje: A savory snack made from maida flour, buttermilk, and spices.
  • Pundi Gatti: Dumplings made from rice flour, served with coconut chutney.
  • Kori Sukka: Chicken cooked in a spicy, coconut-based masala.

Local Beverages

  • Tender Coconut Water: A refreshing drink made from the water inside a young coconut.
  • Kokum Juice: A tangy drink made from kokum fruit, a native fruit of the Western Ghats.
  • Solkadhi: A savory drink made from kokum fruit and coconut milk, often served as a digestive after the meal.

Where to Stay in Byndoor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Byndoor offers many accommodation options for tourists, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. The following are some of the best places to stay in Byndoor:

  • Turtle Bay Beach Resort: A luxurious beach resort with a private beach, spa, and other amenities.
  • Kshitija Nesara Dhama: A religious and cultural center that offers comfortable and affordable accommodations for tourists.
  • Hotel Sharada International: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Byndoor town.

What to Buy in Byndoor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Byndoor is known for its handicrafts and local products, which are great souvenirs to bring back home. The following are some of the best things to buy in Byndoor:

  • Cashew Nuts: Byndoor is the largest producer of cashew nuts in Karnataka, so make sure to try some and bring some back with you.
  • Sandalwood Products: Sandalwood is grown in the Western Ghats region, and Byndoor is known for its sandalwood products such as incense sticks, oils, and soaps.
  • Handicrafts: Byndoor is known for its traditional handicrafts, including pottery, woodcarving, and weaving.

Local Culture and Customs of Byndoor

Byndoor has a rich cultural heritage, and the Tulu and Konkani cultures have influenced the town’s customs and traditions. The following are some of the customs and traditions that you might encounter in Byndoor:

  • Tulu Nadu Food: Byndoor’s traditional food is heavily influenced by the Tulu and Konkani cuisines, and many dishes are vegetarian.
  • Festivals: Byndoor celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Rathotsava festival and the Navaratri festival.
  • Garadi Mane: Garadi Mane is a traditional martial arts school that is unique to the Tulu-speaking people. You can visit one of the schools in Byndoor to learn more about this ancient martial art.

Best Time to Visit Byndoor

The best time to visit Byndoor is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you want to enjoy the lush greenery and waterfalls, the monsoon season (June to September) is also an excellent time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Byndoor

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions: Byndoor has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect the customs and traditions of the local people.
  • Try the local cuisine: Byndoor’s traditional food is delicious, so make sure to try some of the local dishes.
  • Be mindful of the environment: Byndoor is surrounded by lush forests and beaches, so be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions: Byndoor has many customs and traditions that are unique to the region, so make sure to respect them.
  • Waste water: Byndoor is located in an area that has limited water resources, so be mindful of your water usage.
  • Harm the wildlife: Byndoor is home to many rare and endangered species, so be careful not to harm the wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Byndoor

Byndoor is a safe town for tourists, but it’s always important to be cautious and take necessary precautions. The following are some safety tips that you should keep in mind when visiting Byndoor:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night: Like any other town, it’s important to be cautious when traveling alone at night.
  • Be careful when swimming in the sea: The sea can be rough, and there are strong currents, so it’s important to be careful when swimming.
  • Beware of traffic: Like in any other town in India, traffic can be chaotic, so be careful when crossing the road.

Health in Byndoor

Byndoor is located in an area that is prone to certain diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever. It’s important to take necessary precautions by using mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing. Make sure to consult a doctor before traveling to Byndoor to get the necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Byndoor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Byndoor is well-connected to other parts of Karnataka and India. The following are some transportation options to get to Byndoor:

Airports Near Byndoor

The two closest airports to Byndoor are the Mangalore International Airport (MIX) and the Goa International Airport (GOI).

Bus Stations Near Byndoor

Byndoor has its own bus station that connects to other cities in Karnataka and neighboring states.

Other Options

Byndoor is also well-connected by train to major cities in India. The nearest railway station is the Kundapur railway station, which is located about 24 kilometers from Byndoor.

How to Get Around in Byndoor

The best way to get around Byndoor is by hiring a cab or a local auto-rickshaw. Alternatively, you can also rent a bike or a car to explore the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Byndoor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Byndoor is located in a region that has many other interesting destinations to explore. The following are some of the nearby destinations that you can visit after your trip to Byndoor:

  • Udupi: A bustling town known for its ancient temples and delicious cuisine, located about 80 kilometers from Byndoor.
  • Gokarna: A tranquil beach town with a rich spiritual and cultural heritage, located about 160 kilometers from Byndoor.
  • Murudeshwar: A popular tourist destination with a towering statue of Lord Shiva, located about 100 kilometers from Byndoor.

Conclusion

Byndoor is a beautiful town that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in trekking through the Western Ghats, relaxing on the beaches, or exploring the local culture and customs, Byndoor has something to offer for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to Byndoor and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Karnataka.

Blessing from an elephant at Mookambika Temple Blessing from an elephant at Mookambika Temple Shri Shankara Ashramam at Mookambika Shri Shankara Ashramam at Mookambika Entrance view of the Mookambika Temple Entrance view of the Mookambika Temple Kudajadhri Hills, Kollur Kudajadhri Hills, Kollur