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HidikBele Saaru [Meals]

"HidikBele" also know as "Hidikavare/Avarebele" in Kannada and "Val Dhal" in Hindi. Usually the Hidikavare Saaru is prepared with fresh dhal during the avarekayi (papdi lilva) season. First the avarekalu (lilva) is removed from the pods and soak it in the water for 6-8 hours then using thumb and forefinger the outer skin is removed by squeezing the grain to get the dhal. "Hidiku" means squeezing in Kannada, hence the name "Hidikavare".

HidikBele Saaru [Meals], camping in Karnataka

Ingredients

  • Dried Hidikavare (Val Dhal) - 1 cup (Wash and soak in water for 6-8 hours then drain)
  • Onions - 1 small
  • Tomatoes - 1 small
  • Oil - 2 spoons
  • Mustard seeds - 1/2 spoon
  • Salt to taste

Grind the following Ingredients into smooth paste

  • Coconut - 1/2 cup
  • Onions - 1 small
  • Tomatoes - 1 small
  • Sambhar powder - 2 spoon (Instead of Sambhar Powder you can substitute chilly powder and coriander powder - 1 spoon each)
  • Ginger - 3/4 inch
  • Poppy seeds (Khaskhas) - 1 spoon
  • Coriander leaves - few strings
  • Water to grind

How to prepare?

  • Heat oil in a saucepan, add mustard seeds, once it splutters add and fry onions for 2 minutes.
  • Add HidikBele (Val dhal) and fry in medium flame for 5 minutes, then add tomatoes and mix well.
  • Add 2 cups of water, cook until Val dhal becomes soft.
  • Add ground Masala and salt, boil the Saaru (curry) for 10 minutes or till the raw smell of the ground Masala goes. If the Saaru is too thick add little more water while boiling.

Location info

karnataka.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Tourist Helpline: 1364 (toll-free, 24×7). Police: 112 (all-India emergency). Ambulance: 108. Women’s Helpline: 1091. Karnataka Police Tourist Helpline: 112.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Best time to visit HidikBele Saaru [Meals]

Best enjoyed freshly prepared. HidikBele Saaru [Meals] is a traditional Karnataka dish that can be enjoyed year-round. The dish is particularly popular during festivals and special occasions.

How to reach HidikBele Saaru [Meals]

HidikBele Saaru [Meals] is available at restaurants and homes across Karnataka. It is a traditional dish from Karnataka cuisine and can be found in local eateries (darshinis), Udupi restaurants, and traditional Karnataka restaurants across the state.

Timings & opening hours

Available throughout the day at local eateries and restaurants. Typically served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner depending on the dish.

Entry fee & tickets

Not applicable.

Duration needed

Not applicable.

Safety tips

Not applicable.

Things to carry

Not applicable.

Nearby visiting places

Not applicable.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Not applicable.

History of HidikBele Saaru [Meals]

HidikBele Saaru [Meals] is a traditional dish from Karnataka cuisine, reflecting the state’s rich culinary heritage. Karnataka’s cuisine is diverse, influenced by its geography — coastal, Malnad (hill), and northern plain regions each contribute unique flavours and preparations. This dish is a beloved part of Karnataka’s food culture, prepared in homes and restaurants across the state.

Things to do at HidikBele Saaru [Meals]

Taste HidikBele Saaru [Meals] at authentic Karnataka restaurants, learn about the traditional preparation methods, and explore other Karnataka dishes to appreciate the state’s culinary diversity.

Things to visit & highlights

Visit traditional Karnataka restaurants, Udupi eateries (darshinis), and food streets in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, and Udupi to sample authentic local cuisine including HidikBele Saaru [Meals].

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a guide for the trek? Hiring a local guide is strongly recommended — they know the terrain, weather patterns, and can share local knowledge. Some treks require a mandatory forest guide.

What fitness level is required? Most treks in Karnataka are moderate difficulty. A reasonable level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Is camping allowed? Camping may be permitted in designated areas on certain trekking routes. Check with the local forest office beforehand and carry all necessary equipment.

Quick facts

  • Type: Destination
  • State: Karnataka
  • Category: Camping

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of HidikBele Saaru [Meals] on popular travel photography sites and social media.

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This section is being updated and will be available shortly.

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