Sakleshpur has a history since ancient periods because it was a part of the tract of Malnad region in Western Ghats that is more famous for dense green forests and wildlife and agricultural land. It was a place along the banks of the Hemavati River and was once a part of the larger empire of Cholas and the Hoysalas. This great empire had ruled over southern India for hundreds of years; unfortunately, very little of the history from this period is available concerning Sakleshpur. Later on, the city of town came into handy with the full domination in the 12th and 13th centuries for the Hoysalas. The Hoysala dynasty has famous architectural contributions, including many temples inside and outside Sakleshpur. Many of the remaining ones are the same today, exhibiting the features of Hoysala architecture in ornate carvings and sculptures. Explore more nature escapes in our Weekend Getaways from Bangalore guide filled with scenic hill stations and adventure trips.Nearby Attraction:1. Manjarabad FortManjarabad Fort is a magnificent star-shaped fort from the legends of Tipu Sultan of the 18th century, near the place called Sakleshpur. It sits on top of the hill, viewing the valley and hills around this place beautifully. Being an example of militarily fortified buildings and historical structures, this fort was specially designed to defend the region against invasions by people outside. It is the best place for history lovers and photography. One gets to have the beautiful vistas of the Western Ghats here. Visitors visit it largely through a short trek up to the hill, with the last stretch being shown in a view of beautiful greenery surrounding it.2. Abbey FallsAbbey Falls, near about 8 kilometres from Sakleshpur is the most sought attraction within this area. It cascades over the rocky terrain with such a soothing sound as it crashes into the river below. Surrounded by dense coffee plantations and lush greenery, this beautiful waterfall cascades down the rocky terrain. The falls are especially beautiful during the monsoon season when the water flows in full force, making it thrilling for visitors. This little bridge that stands there for crossing provides a marvelous photographic vantage point. Here again, it's another reason why it's photogenic the beauty of the waterfalls can be perfectly shot at these vantage points. This short walk through a forest path adds to the fun because walking is so much part of the experience.3. Baba Budangiri HillsThe hills of Baba Budangiri are a spiritual and natural landmark in the region, assigned with the name of the Sufi saint Baba Budan. It is said that the cultivation of coffee in India has been taken from here because Baba Budan brought coffee beans from Yemen to this place during the 17th century. The trekking experiences in this area vary from moderate to tough as the trails go through coffee plantations and dense forests. A view of the surrounding valleys and hills at the top is an impressive scenery. Baba Budangiri is a sacred place, too. The shrine of Baba Budangiri is located on this hill, and it is visited by people all across India.4. Hemavati ReservoirHemavati Reservoir, located near Sakleshpur, is a reservoir constructed over the Hemavati River. The serene environment encircled by green hills makes it the ideal location where one can spend a quiet day amidst nature. A tourist can have a peaceful boat ride around the dam and can capture the very beautiful beauty of the landscape in the camera. The dam also becomes an excellent bird-watching place as there are many migratory species of birds which can be seen here. This is a perfect place for picnics and family outings due to the serenity in its atmosphere and the view of its landscape.5. Jenukal HillThe "Honey Hill," which is the second-highest peak of Karnataka situated in the Western Ghats, offers a moderately tough trek. There are steep ascents and narrow pathways to lead the trekkers to the top that have rewarded them with panoramic views of the surrounding coffee plantations, valleys, and forests. The hill is also known for the variety of various flora and fauna species prevailing in that region. The tourists can, while watching the beauty of the Western Ghats, have views of the panoramic kind from the top, all in seclusion.6. Agni GuddaAgni Gudda is also one of the hills in the region of Sakleshpur. This hill does present an adventurous trek there. Known for its history since the place, the spot takes volcanic activities in the region due to which at certain times of day, there were fire breakouts in some of its districts; the trek to Agni Gudda is an average ascent through dense forests, plantations of coffee, and steep slopes as the view from atop remains breathtakingly beautiful. The hill is not so crowded compared to the other destination places of the trek, so it is ideal for people who are looking for a silent and peaceful area with a view of nature's beauty.7. Sakleshpur Wildlife SanctuaryThis also falls in the Western Ghats, which turns out to be a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as supports vast biodiversity. Sakleshpur Wildlife Sanctuary in the neighborhood provides a good place to see an abundance of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and a number of bird species. This place provides nature walks and wildlife safaris in the area where one gets glimpses of animals roaming wild in their natural habitat. This is the sanctuary for bird enthusiasts as well as for wildlife observers since it accommodates denser forests, rolling hills, and full-grown lush greenery. It keeps several species of endangered plants as well as flora and fauna protected in itself.8. Kukke Subramanya TempleThis is situated about 60 km from Sakleshpur. This sanctum sanctorum house accommodates this particular sacred shrine called the Kukke Subramanya Temple, which accommodates the shrine to Lord Subramanya-son to the god, Lord Shiva. The temple is said to be deep into the hills of the Western Ghats and is described as a great pilgrim center for its devotees. The temple campus, flanked by dense forests, is considered a calm and sacredly spiritual place. The temple is mainly known for the rituals and ceremonies that pull pilgrims all year round.9. Molekebailu and Agni GuddaMolekebailu and Agni Gudda are lesser-known but equally beautiful trekking spots near Sakleshpur. These hills will give anybody looking for offbeat trails an experience of a lifetime. Trek to these peaks takes people through thick forests, dense coffee plantations, quiet streams, and an experience to see the untouched natural beauty of the Western Ghats. It is somewhat risky and offers an excellent opportunity to come close to the flora and fauna of this region.10. Sakleshpur Railway Station and train travelsSakleshpur Railway Station is part of the famous Bangalore-Mangalore railway line that takes a scenic ride through the green landscapes of the Western Ghats. This is reportedly one of the most beautiful Indian train routes, crossing dense forests, steep hills, and a number of tunnels and bridges. This journey is a must for photography enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the charm of the region in a unique way.11. Gandhi BhavanOne other essential building in Sakleshpur town is the Gandhi Bhavan. Sanctioned to one of India's biggest personalities, Mahatma Gandhi, the building houses a museum, but the exhibitions related to how Indians have struggled and what the thought process of Mahatma Gandhi was toward achieving independence is relatively less enriched. It still can prove an effective destination in Sakleshpur town since the history is coupled up even to understand how Indians did their freedom movement.12. Kudremukh National ParkKudremukh National Park is one of the richest biological national parks in India, positioned around 35 km from Sakleshpur town. The Western Ghats have endangered species in the park, including Kudremukh deer, leopards, tigers, and elephants. The park has forest and grasslands treks into the hills. It also harbors lush vegetation, such as the unusual plant and tree species, that enhance the value of this ecosystem in this area.13. Chennakeshava TempleChennakeshava temple is situated in Belur town. It is 40 km from Sakleshpur. One of the best examples of Hoysala architecture is the beautiful carvings of Lord Vishnu sculptures. The stonework is another prominent feature of the temple. This temple represents Karnataka and has been one of the sacred places for religious activities visited by millions of pilgrims and visitors.14. Green Valley ViewpointThis is the view from Green Valley View near Sakleshpur, the most famous viewpoint of this entire region, which boasts a panoramic view of lush green valleys and hills in the Western Ghats. Especially striking, the scene in the early morning hours or late afternoon with mist hovering above the valleys makes the place a site as if one has stepped into some dream world. This view is highly accessible and a great place to sit, take pictures, and enjoy the beauty of the region.15. Hoysala Temples Around SakleshpurThere are many ancient Hoysala temples located around Sakleshpur that are known for their architectural beauty and historical importance. Such temples include Siddheshwara Temple and Lakshmi Narayana Temple, which show the excellent craftsmanship of the Hoysala dynasty. These temples are famous for their carvings, stone sculptures, and minute architectural details, which depict myths in Hindu mythology. Visiting these temples, it feels a rich cultural heritage of the land and its historical importance.Activities To Do In Sakleshpur:Trekking and HikingSakleshpur is an excellent haven for trekkers and trek routes where one can explore dense forests, rolling hills, and coffee plantations. The well-known trek is; the Kudremukh Trek. This one is probably one of the famous ones because of a trek through dense forest to the meadow before a gentle climb onto the summit, which offers vistas for panoramas of the western Ghat range. Experience waterfalls, greenery, and plantation stays with our Sakleshpur trip package from Bangalore. This Bisle Ghat trek comes easy grade; it helps us traverse biodiversity in this region to view some of the breathtaking waterscape beautifications. This will be packed with great views, dense woods, and very rich flora and fauna. Nature allows you to soak within yourself while this trek throws at you the beautiful landscapes surrounding Sakleshpur. One of the best ways of discovering the not-so-well-known beauty of Sakleshpur is by trekking and one will find trails of varied levels.Coffee Plantation ToursSakleshpur is famous for its coffee plantations. On a Sakleshpur tour, a person must surely visit the plantations. In the tour, one gets a notion of how it all works, from the cultivation process to the brewing process, passed on by bean to mug, step by step. With a walk around the estates, you are very much aware of organic farming and you can taste freshly brewed coffee there. You will love this tour as you experience a very peaceful plantation ambience with natural beauty. River Rafting:River rafting in Bhadra River is also another great adventure activity. It is ideal for newbies as it has very meagre rapids, and it is an adventurous way to experience the sceneries of the lovely surroundings. The thrill of rafting through the rivers with both sides of the hills and dense forests makes it memorable for adventure lovers. Looking for affordable nature escapes? Explore our Budget Weekend Getaways From Bangalore blog.Bird WatchingSakleshpur is essentially a haven for nature lovers and at the same time a paradise for bird enthusiasts; it covers a variety of ecosystems coupled with its richness in avian population. This region swarms with endemic and migrant birds such as the Malabar Trogon, Indian Cuckoo, species of woodpeckers, etc. Bisle Reserve and the coffee plantations are perfect spots for birds. Birding enthusiasts get to see those creatures in their natural habitat along with the lovely lands.Visitation to WaterfallsSakleshpur is further gifted with several very beautiful waterfalls. Some of the most admired waterfalls are:Abbey Falls: Situated almost 7 km from Sakleshpur, Abbey Falls is an absolute must-do. This 70-foot waterfall amidst a lush green ambience is all the more magnificent during monsoon.Haddo Falls: This is one of the smaller waterfalls in this region. Haddo Falls is also deep in the forest and hence quite removed from crowded places.Manjarabad Fort Waterfall: Nearest to the historical Manjarabad Fort, this brings up an image of scenic beauty during visiting the fort Best for shooting and picnicking in natureJeep Safari and Off-roading: Other adventures taken up by people coming to this place include jeep safaris and off-roading. Sakleshpur is a rugged place the aid of a jeep leads one to the deep corners of the area, such as coffee estates and forests. All the place is adventure, and one sees it all with eyes.Cycling: Sakleshpur has scintillating roads and hilly land. It has been a very big destination among the cyclists. The landscape can be covered up on cycling either through coffee plantations or winding hill roads-a great means of taking leisurely exposure to the surroundings of the beautiful place. Most tourists, however, seek a day to rent bicycles for a day amidst all the peaceful surroundings of fresh air.Farm and Eco Stays: Some of the best authentic experiences in Sakleshpur include farm stays and eco-friendly stays. One can experience staying in a coffee estate or on a rural farm. It allows the visitor to understand the everyday lives of the locals, engage in their farming activities, and understand the art of organic farming. There are many ways one can enjoy eco-friendly stays without compromising the environment.Camping and Glamping: You'll find that Sakleshpur presents you with camping right into the arms of nature. A few campsites are there, which can accommodate your tents, and you can pass some serene moments with the help of tranquility that the Western Ghats give you. If luxury is your thing, look at 'glamping,' that concept that provides modern well-furnished tents fully fitted, giving adventure combined with luxury.Relaxation and Wellness: Sakleshpur is the perfect getaway from the chaos of cities. The quiet environment, along with the lush greens around this place, makes it the best possible place to de-stress. Several resorts and homestays organize wellness activities, which include yoga and meditation programs so that people learn to connect with nature and revitalize the mind as well as the body.Local Craft Shopping: Local crafts of Sakleshpur include handmade jewellery, wooden items, and coffee-related stuff. Local souvenirs can also be taken from local shops so that the tourist carries a part of this strange culture with himHow to Reach:By Road: Many places in Karnataka are accessible by road to Sakleshpur. If you are coming from Bangalore, which is 220 km from the city, then from Bangalore, you take NH 75 towards Sakleshpur, Hassan, and Kunigal. The ride would be for about 5-6 hours and has some beautiful scenery on the way. The distance from Mangalore, 150 km away, will take close to 4 hours on NH 73. Regular service buses connecting major cities of Bangalore, Mangalore Hassan to Sakleshpur operate by both state and private agenciesBy Train: There is a railway station at Sakleshpur, and various cities have trains coming all the way to Sakleshpur. By train, it is almost 5-6 hours from Bangalore, which is some 220 km from the city. Trains from Mangalore, which is about 150 km away, and from Hassan, merely 50 km away, come all the way to Sakleshpur. A journey by train is comfortable as well as scenic. The trains run through the Western Ghats.By Air: The nearest airport to Sakleshpur is Mangalore International Airport. It is 150 km from Sakleshpur. You can easily come from Bangalore and Mumbai to the airport. From Mangalor,e you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sakleshpur. You may also fly into Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. The distance between Bangalore and Sakleshpur is about 220 km. This can be reached by hiring a taxi or taking a bus.By Private Bus: It is also by private car for those who enjoy travelling flexibly and comfortably. The trip is through the hills and coffee estates; if it comes from Bangalore and Mangalore, then just scenic.
