Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Hubli, also known as Hubballi, is a bustling city known for its commerce, industry, and culture. But beyond its city limits lie destinations that promise adventure, tranquility, and a deep dive into history and nature. Whether you’re a resident or a traveler looking to explore beyond the beaten path, these 10 places near Hubli offer a perfect escape. From ancient architectural marvels to serene landscapes, let’s embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems around Hubli.
List of the Top 10 Must-See Destinations Near Hubli, Karnataka:
1. Dandeli
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 75 km.
Dandeli, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a natural paradise brimming with a variety of experiences for the avid explorer. This sanctuary city, renowned for its dense forests and the Kali River, provides a sanctuary for a multitude of wildlife, including exotic birds and elusive predators like the black panther.
Dandeli stands out as an adventure hub, offering thrilling activities like white-water rafting, kayaking, and jungle safaris, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
What to Do
- White-water rafting on the Kali River
- Wildlife safaris in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
- Bird watching and trekking
Best Time to Visit: October to May, when the weather is pleasant, and the river is perfect for rafting.
How to Reach: Dandeli is about 75 km from Hubli and is easily accessible by road. The most convenient way to reach Dandeli from Hubli is by hiring a taxi or driving your vehicle. Alternatively, there are state transport buses that run regularly between Hubli and Dandeli, making it an affordable option for travelers.
2. Gokarna
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 150 km.
Gokarna, a quaint and serene coastal town, captures the essence of tranquility and spiritual rejuvenation. Known for its pristine and secluded beaches, Gokarna offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Beyond its sandy shores, it is a significant pilgrimage site, with ancient temples that draw both devotees and tourists. The laid-back vibe, coupled with the natural beauty of its beaches and the spiritual ambiance, makes Gokarna a unique blend of relaxation and spirituality.
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What to Do
- Beach trekking covers five major beaches: Gokarna Beach, Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, and Paradise Beach.
- Visit ancient temples like Mahabaleshwar Temple.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, ideal for beach activities and temple visits.
How to Reach: Gokarna is approximately 150 km from Hubli. The best way to reach Gokarna from Hubli is by road, either by bus or by car. Several state-run and private buses offer services between Hubli and Gokarna. For a more comfortable journey, hiring a taxi may be preferable.
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3. Badami
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 105 km.
Badami, once the regal capital of the Chalukya Empire, stands as a testament to India’s rich historical and architectural heritage. The town is celebrated for its rock-cut cave temples, each adorned with intricate carvings and statues that depict Hindu and Jain mythology.
Badami’s rugged landscape, with its red sandstone cliffs and serene lake, provides a dramatic backdrop to these ancient wonders. Exploring Badami is akin to walking through the pages of history, offering insights into the artistic and spiritual legacy of ancient India.
What to Do
- Explore the four cave temples dedicated to Hindu and Jain deities.
- Visit the Badami Fort and the Agastya Lake.
Best Time to Visit: September to February, when the weather is cooler and conducive to exploration.
How to Reach: Located about 105 km from Hubli, Badami can be reached by road or rail. There are direct buses from Hubli to Badami, as well as trains available to the nearest railway station in Badami. For a more comfortable trip, you might consider hiring a taxi.
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4. Hampi
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 160 km.
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an open-air museum of history, architecture, and heritage. Once the flourishing capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, its ruins tell tales of grandeur and opulence. With over 1,600 surviving remains, including temples, palaces, and market streets, Hampi offers a window into the past.
The site is not just an archaeological treasure but also a scenic beauty, with boulder-strewn landscapes and the Tungabhadra River flowing through it, making Hampi a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
What to Do
- Explore the Virupaksha Temple, Vitthala Temple, and the Hampi Bazaar.
- Enjoy coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the climate is pleasant.
How to Reach: Hampi is around 160 km from Hubli and is accessible by road and rail. The most convenient way to get there is by bus or car. Several buses are running between Hubli and Hampi. Alternatively, one can take a train to Hospet, which is the nearest railway station to Hampi, and then take a short bus or taxi ride to Hampi.
Check More:
- Places to See Around Hampi
- Interesting Facts About Hampi
- Best Time to Visit Hampi
- Hampi’s Most Popular Temples
- Historical Sites in Hampi
5. Pattadakal
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 134 km.
Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, embodies the zenith of Chalukyan architecture. This ancient town, with its group of Hindu and Jain temples, represents a harmonious blend of architectural forms from northern and southern India.
The intricacy of the sculptures and the architectural innovation of these temples reflect a high degree of craftsmanship and artistry. Pattadakal is not just an architectural marvel but also a historical canvas that showcases the evolution of temple architecture in India.
What to Do
- Explore ancient temples like Virupaksha Temple and Jain Narayana Temple.
- Attend the annual Pattadakal Dance Festival.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, ideal for sightseeing and attending cultural events.
How to Reach: Pattadakal is approximately 134 km from Hubli. The most convenient way to reach Pattadakal from Hubli is by road. You can hire a taxi or take your car. There are also buses available from Hubli to Pattadakal, making it an accessible option for travelers.
6. Jog Falls
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 200 km.
Jog Falls, created by the Sharavathi River cascading down the Western Ghats, is a spectacle of nature’s power and beauty. It is among India’s tallest waterfalls, offering a mesmerizing view as water plunges into the deep rocky gorge.
The surrounding lush greenery and the roaring sound of the falls create an enchanting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The monsoon season transforms the falls into a mighty and majestic flow, attracting visitors from all over.
What to Do
- Trek to the bottom of the falls for a breathtaking view.
- Visit nearby attractions like the Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit: July to December, post-monsoon, when the falls are in full flow.
How to Reach: Jog Falls is around 200 km from Hubli. The best way to reach Jog Falls is by road. Hiring a taxi or driving there offers the most flexibility in terms of stops and enjoying the scenic beauty. Although there are no direct bus services from Hubli to Jog Falls, one can travel to nearby towns like Sagar or Siddapur by bus and then take local transport to Jog Falls.
Jog Falls Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Jog Falls & Gokarna Travel Itinerary
7. Yana
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 140 km.
Yana, known for its unusual karst rock formations, is a hidden gem in the heart of Karnataka’s lush forests. The two massive rock outcrops, known as the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and the Mohini Shikhara, stand in stark contrast to the surrounding greenery, offering a surreal landscape.
Yana is not just a geological wonder but also holds spiritual significance, with a cave temple nestled at its base. The trek through dense forests to reach Yana is an adventure in itself, appealing to trekkers and spiritual seekers.
What to Do
- Trek through the dense forests to reach the Yana rocks.
- Visit the cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Best Time to Visit: September to February, when the weather is cool and conducive to outdoor activities.
How to Reach: Yana is about 140 km from Hubli. The journey to Yana is best undertaken by road, either by bus or by car. While direct bus services may not always be available, one can travel to Kumta or Sirsi by bus and then take a local taxi or bus to Yana.
8. Aihole
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 140 km.
Aihole, often hailed as the cradle of Hindu temple architecture, offers an unparalleled historical exploration. With over 125 ancient temples dating from the 4th to the 12th centuries, Aihole showcases the evolutionary stages of Hindu temple architecture.
The diversity of architectural styles and the experimentation seen in these temples provide insights into the ingenuity of ancient architects. Aihole’s rich architectural heritage, set against the backdrop of a rustic village, makes it a fascinating destination for historians, architects, and cultural enthusiasts.
What to Do
- Explore ancient temples like Durga Temple and Lad Khan Temple.
- Learn about the architectural significance of each site.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the climate is pleasant for exploration.
How to Reach: Situated around 140 km from Hubli, Aihole can be reached by road. There are buses available from Hubli to Aihole, although they may not be very frequent. Another option is to hire a taxi or drive, which allows for a more comfortable and flexible journey.
9. Anshi National Park
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 120 km.
Anshi National Park, part of the Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve, is a biodiverse haven located in the Western Ghats. It offers a sanctuary to a wide range of wildlife, including the elusive tiger and black panther, amidst dense tropical forests.
The park’s rugged terrain, waterfalls, and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for wildlife safaris, bird watching, and nature walks. Anshi National Park not only provides thrilling wildlife encounters but also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts in the region.
What to Do
- Wildlife safaris to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife.
- Bird watching and trekking in the dense forests.
Best Time to Visit: October to May, when the weather is favorable for wildlife spotting.
How to Reach: Anshi National Park is about 120 km from Hubli. The best way to reach the park is by road. You can drive or hire a taxi for the most direct route. Public transport options may be limited, but buses to Dandeli can be used as a starting point, followed by local transport to Anshi National Park.
10. Sirsi
Distance from Hubli: Approximately 100 km.
Sirsi, a small yet vibrant town nestled in the Western Ghats, is renowned for its lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and ancient temples. The town is surrounded by dense forests, offering a refreshing retreat into nature. Sirsi’s cultural heritage is reflected in its traditional festivals and the revered Marikamba Temple.
The nearby Sahasralinga, with its hundreds of Shiva lingas carved in river rocks, and the majestic waterfalls like Sathodi and Magod, make Sirsi a compelling mix of natural beauty and spiritual solace.
What to Do
- Visit the Marikamba Temple and the Sahasralinga where hundreds of Shiva lingas are carved in the river rocks.
- Explore the Sathodi and Magod Falls.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the waterfalls are majestic and the weather is pleasant.
How to Reach: Sirsi is around 100 km from Hubli and is well-connected by road. There are frequent buses from Hubli to Sirsi, making it an accessible option for travelers. Alternatively, hiring a taxi or driving to Sirsi offers more flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route at your own pace.
Conclusion
The areas surrounding Hubli are steeped in history, natural beauty, and adventure. Each destination offers a unique experience, from the tranquil beaches of Gokarna to the majestic waterfalls of Jog Falls and the architectural wonders of Hampi and Badami. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or a deep dive into India’s rich cultural heritage, these 10 places promise unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, and let the journey begin!
Further Reading:
- Karnataka Places to See in January
- February in Karnataka Visit for Famous Places
- March Visit Famous Places in Karnataka
- Places to See in Karnataka in April
- Top 8 Places in Karnataka to Visit in July
- Karnataka Places to See in August
- Places to Visit in September in Karnataka
- Tourist Places in Karnataka Visit in October
- Karnataka Tourist Places to See in November
- Places to Visit in Karnataka in December
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Karnataka
