The state of Karnataka is absolutely rich in natural beauty. A great number of tourists flock here to enjoy the sun rays gleaming through thick lines of coconut trees and the peaceful backwaters. While many of the famous places are a favorite among visitors, there are also some unexplored places in Karnataka waiting to be discovered. .
1 Jain temple , Gerusoppa This Jain temple complex with its intricately done pillars look magically situated among the vast greenery. The Gerusoppa shrines are among the most exquisite offbeat places in Karnataka. The walk through thick forests to unravel this hidden haven is nothing short of an adventure. This complex was built by Queen Chennabhairadevi and once it had over 100 shrines..
Location: Gerusoppa is located some 30 km from Jog falls. How to Reach Forest Shrines: Cross the Gerusoppa dam and go along with the river, you can also take a boat all the way to the temple complex.
2 Bandaje Arbi Falls, Manipal These gushing milky white waterfalls surrounded by serene natural beauty makes for a marvellous sight. It is one of those offbeat places in Karnataka that are surely worth a visit. The place gets a lot of rain and the hilly terrains carve out a perfect pavement for the rainwater to flow downhill. Hiking to this place is a great way to enjoy the refreshing scenery of the area.
Location: Charmadi ghat section of the Western Ghats in the Belthangady taluk of Dakshina Kannada district How to Reach Arbi Falls: Trek from Valambra near Somanthadka village to the Charmadi Ghat
3. Floating Chapel, Shettihalli The gothic style structure of the Floating Chapel looks absolutely mysterious and enchanting is one of the unexplored places in Karnataka. Even though the roof of Rosary Church has collapsed, it looks hauntingly beautiful with the remnants of its architectural beauty. It was built by the French missionaries in the 19th century. One can take a great view of this place on a boat and float through the chapel that is partially immersed in water.
Location: On the side of Hemavathi River in the town of Shettihalli in southern Karnataka How to Reach: Take a diversion near Hassan on the Bangalore-Mangalore highway and ask for Gorur Dam. The chapel can be easily seen from the bridge connecting Shettihalli to Gorur Dam.
4 Hoysaleswara Temple, Hassan District The Hoysaleswara temple which is also known as the Halebidu temple is a wonder that blows you away with its beautiful architecture. A beautiful representation of the Hoysala architecture, this place is one of the best offbeat places in Karnataka which is worth exploring. This 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva still speaks silent tales of its glorious past
Location: Halebidu, a town in the state of Karnataka How to Reach: Halebidu is connected by road and rail to Hassan. You can reach via 4 hours drive accessible with a four-lane NH75 highway through Hassan. It is also very close to Belur
5 Honnemaradu, Shimoga District If you are an adventure enthusiast and wish to travel to unexplored places in Karnataka then Honnemaradu is the place for you. This small cosy village is one of the hidden places in Karnataka that is worth a visit. It is nestled in natural beauty and is also a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts. Those who are not too keen on adventure sports can enjoy the tranquillity of this place.
Location: Situated on the backwaters of River Sharavathi How to Reach: Drive a few Kms from Sagar on the way to Jog falls