Honnemaradu Falls

About Honnemaradu Falls

Honnemaradu, the village, having been engulfed in the mid-1960s by the Liganamakki dam, has been literally resurrected today. This haven for water sport enthusiasts, tucked away in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, is in the Shimoga District in north-west Karnataka, about 25 km from Sagar town on the way to Jog Falls.
Honnemaradu, situated on the backwaters of the Sharavathi River, and surrounded by numerous small islands, is ideal for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, wind water surfing, island camping, trekking and bird/ butterfly watching. The common birds here are the European bee-eater, fairy blue bird, ruby-cheeked bulbul, orange-headed ground thrush and so on. Spectacular butterflies such as red helens, blue mormons, blue bottles and stripped tigers offer a visual treat.

About 10 km from Honnemaradu is Gademane, famous for its chittara art. Other interesting places around Honnemaradu are Jog Falls (26 km), Dabbe Falls (30 km from Jog falls), Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari (9 km out of Shimoga), Sagar (a cultural centre), Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaanur Kote, a fort (75 km by road). Honnemaradu can be visited at any time of the year, except during the rains in July-August.

Honnemaradu in Karnataka is situated in the Shimoga district which is about 25 kms from Sagara towards Jog Falls. Situated on the back waters of the Sharavathi River, Honnemaradu is famous for being the home to a wide variety of water sports. The shimmering waters under the blue firmament will cajole any water sports lover to venture into the lake and enjoy the adventures sports. Windsurfing, coracling, canoeing, kayaking and scuba diving are the various water activities people participate in when visiting Honnemaradu.

Nestled in the greenery of the Western Ghats in a widely spread area of 50 km by 80 km that houses the lake, the reservoir is exclusively for those looking forward to have fun with water sports.

If your plan for this years vacation has not been finalized yet, you can definitely opt for a rendezvous in the hill stations of Karnataka. Among the many water bodies that grace the Western Ghats of India you can choose the Honnemaradu Karnataka. Honnemaradu in Karnataka is located in the Shimoga district which is about 25 kms from Sagara towards Jog Falls. Situated on the back waters of the Sharavathi River, Honnemaradu is famous for being the home to a wide variety of water sports. The shimmering waters under the blue firmament will cajole any water sports lover to venture into the lake and enjoy the adventures sports. Windsurfing, coracling, canoeing, kayaking and scuba diving are the various water activities people participate in when visiting Honnemaradu.
Traveling to Honnemaradu can be an exciting experience. A few days away from the pent up city life is sure to unleash extra energy in you when you come vacationing in Honnemaradu in Karnataka. Nestled in the greenery of the Western Ghats in a widely spread area of 50 km by 80 km that houses the lake, the reservoir is exclusively for those looking forward to have fun with water sports.
The Lake gives you immense opportunity to enjoy the water sports. Wind surfing and rafting can be enjoyed thoroughly amidst the beauty of the nature surrounding it. The spectacular sunset and sunrise views are surely not to be missed while visiting Honnemaradu.

Honnemaradu, a haven for water sports, is tucked away in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats along the Sharavati backwaters near Sagar. Encompassing an area of 50 km by 80 km, this reservoir stretches as far as the eye can see. One of the few places that cater exclusively to water sports, Honnemaradu or olden Lake has some of the most spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset.
Deep in a forest, without the slightest trace of civilisation, Honnemaradu is a haven for die-hard outdoors fanatics as well as those who want a complete break from the City.
Some of the water sports activities here include coracling, canoeing, kayaking and wind rafting

Honnemaradu (which transaltes itself to a place of golden sand) is a tourist place, situated on the back waters of River Sharavathi and is popular among watersports enthusiasts as a site for kayaking, windsurfing and other similar sports. It is located in Shimoga district, Karnataka about 25 km away from Sagara, on the way to Jog falls. Visitors can stay overnight, with facilities for food, shelter and equipment rentals nearby. Please note that use of plastic, alcoholic drinks, smoking and other pollution causing items are prohibited in this area. It’s really a cool place to hang out during weekends and good season being from september to december.

Help Line/Phone Number

http://harishoutings.blogspot.com/2007/03/honnemaradu-trip.html

Location info

• Address:

• District: Shimoga

• Nearest City: Shimoga

Best time to visit these places is in early Winter.Honnemaradu can be visited at any time of the year, except during the rains in July-August.

Things to visit & highlights

About 10 km from Honnemaradu is Gademane, famous for its chittara art. Other interesting places around Honnemaradu are Jog Falls just 26 km from here, Dabbe Falls (30 km from Jog falls), Tyavarekoppa Tiger and the new Lion Safari (9 km out of Shimoga). Sagar a cultural centre, is present near Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary and another topic of interest is the Kaanur Kote, a fort (75 km by road). A wide variety of holidaying spots present nearby makes Honnemaradu an ideal short holiday.

Nearest visiting places

• Agumbe Hillstation

Agumbe, a small village located in Karnataka for all those who wish to find peace with nature in the western ghats. It is known to be the wettest region in Karnataka receiving highest rainfall. The tiny village is much known for its beautiful sunset and the trek opportunities it offer

• Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Shimoga District, Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary spans over 431 sq km. Apart from the area occupied by the Liganamakki Reservoir or Honnemaradu, the sanctuary is divided into core zone, buffer zone and tourism zone

• Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary

Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Shimoga District of Karnataka. It spreads over 395 sq km of tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. The sanctuary is inhabited by tiger, leopard, wild dog, jackal, gaur, elephant, sloth bear, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild pig,

• Ikkeri Archeology

Ikkeri is situated in Shimoga district of Karnataka state at about 3 km to the south of Sagar. The word Ikkeri in Kannada means “Two Streets”. This place was the capital of Keladi Nayakas for some years

• Keladi

Keladi is 10 km away from Ikkeri and was the Nayaka capital. You enter the precincts with its several small shrines through a long-roofed wooden entrance

• Barkana Falls

Barkana Falls are among the ten highest waterfalls in India. They are located near Agumbe in Shimoga district of state of Karnataka. Barkana falls are formed by Sita river. Currently Barkana falls are the prime source of one of the hydro electric projects in Karnataka

• Jog WaterFalls

The tallest and no doubt the most impressive waterfall in India, the Jog Falls(also known as the Gerusoppa waterfalls) is located about 400 kms from Bangalore in Karnataka. It is created by the Sharavathi River which comes down in cascades from a height of 292 meters at Gerusoppa in four distinct falls, called the Raja, Rani, Rover and Rocket

• Kunchikal Falls

Kunchikal Falls are the highest waterfalls in India and second highest waterfalls in Asia. They are located near Agumbe in Shimoga district of state of Karnataka. Kumchikal falls are formed by Varahi river. Currently Kunchikal falls are the prime source of one of the hydro electric projects in Karnataka

• Dandavathi River

Dandavathi is a river that flows in Sorab, India. It originates near Kuppe (Sorab taluk) and ends in the Varada river near Sagar. Sorab’s Sri Ranganatha temple is built on the bay of the Dandavathi river

• Sharavathi River

Sharavathi is a river which originates and flows entirely within the state of Karnataka in India. It is one of the few westward flowing rivers of India and a major part of the river basin lies in the Western Ghats. The famous Jog Falls are formed by this river

• Varada river

Varada River, the only source of water for the Sagar town, is the major river of Shimoga District. Sagar is an industrial town in the heart of the Western Ghats, Sagar is located in Shimoga District of Karnataka. It is 75 km north-west of Shimoga

• Varahi River

Varahi River is a river flowing through Western Ghats to Basrur, Kundapur and Gungulli in western India. Varahi is a west flowing river which takes its birth in the Western Ghats at Hebbagilu, near Agumbe in Shimoga District

• Gudavi Bird Sanctuary

Sorab taluk of Shimoga district, comes alive in June as the energetic chirping of birds fills the air. The tree-lined banks of the Gudavi Lake become a brilliant mosaic of colours, with branches buried under bright plumage

• Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is situated in the Malenaadu region under the Shimoga district, towards Theerthahalli in Karnataka. The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary has a spectacular collection of migratory birds

• Gajanur Dam

Gajanur is a village 12 km from Shivamogga in the Shivamogga District of Karnataka, India. The Tunga River flows through the village. Gajanur is well known for the dam built across the river

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.

Nearest petrol pump

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

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Honnemaradu Falls

Post-monsoon season (October to February) is the best time to visit when the waterfall is at its full flow. The monsoon months (June to September) see the heaviest water flow but accessibility may be limited due to slippery paths. Summer (March to May) has reduced water flow.

Timings & opening hours

6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Best viewed during daylight hours. Avoid visiting after dark as the terrain can be slippery.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: ₹10-₹20 per person for Indian nationals, ₹50-₹100 for foreign nationals. Parking fee: ₹20-₹50 for vehicles. Camera fee: ₹25-₹50 for still cameras.

Duration needed

1-2 hours is sufficient to visit the waterfall, enjoy the views, and take photographs. If the area has trekking trails, plan for 3-4 hours.

Safety tips

Do not venture beyond designated viewing areas or barriers. Rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery. Do not swim in waterfall pools — submerged rocks and strong currents pose serious risks. Rainfall can cause sudden increases in water flow. Wear non-slip footwear. Supervise children at all times.

Things to carry

Carry water bottles, snacks, raincoat/umbrella (especially post-monsoon), camera for photographs, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and a change of clothes if planning to get wet.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station: Shimoga Town (SMET) or the closest district railway station. Nearest airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (BLR) or Mangalore International Airport (IXE) depending on location. Local buses and taxis are available from both.

History of Honnemaradu Falls

Honnemaradu Falls is one of the scenic waterfalls in Karnataka, formed by a river cascading down the Western Ghats. The area around the waterfall is part of the rich biodiversity hotspot of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The waterfall has been a popular tourist destination for decades, known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings.

Things to do at Honnemaradu Falls

At Honnemaradu Falls, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of the cascading water, take photographs, have a picnic in designated areas, and explore the surrounding forest trails. During the post-monsoon season, the mist and spray from the waterfall create a refreshing atmosphere. Bird watching and nature photography are popular activities in the surrounding area.

Frequently asked questions

Is swimming safe at the waterfall? No, swimming at the base of waterfalls is not recommended due to submerged rocks and unpredictable currents. It is safest to enjoy the view from designated areas.

What is the best time to visit? The post-monsoon season (October to February) when the waterfall is at its fullest flow is ideal.

Are there trekking trails nearby? Many waterfalls in Karnataka are surrounded by forest trails and viewpoints that offer short nature walks of 1-3 km.

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Honnemaradu Falls

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Honnemaradu Falls on popular travel photography sites and social media.