Top 10 adventure activities in Karnataka you must try this monsoon

Karnataka, a southwestern state in India, has a wide range of geographic features that provide numerous exciting activities for adventure travellers and nature enthusiasts. The monsoon season makes these activities even more exciting and challenging; hence, it is the most suitable time to explore the lush greenery, roaring rivers, and rugged terrains of the region. Below are the top 10 adventure activities in Karnataka during the monsoons.

White-Water rafting in Dandeli

• Best for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers
• Location: Kali River, Dandeli
• How to reach: Alnavar Junction (35 km) is its nearest railway station. Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Wear proper rafting gear and follow the instructor’s guidelines.
• Nearby Attractions: Syntheri Rocks, Anshi National Park, Supa Dam

Located amidst the Western Ghats, Dandeli is famous for whitewater rafting on the Kali River. Due to heavy rains during monsoons, it becomes an ideal location for both beginners and experienced rafters, with thrilling rapids. While you manoeuvre through those turbulent waters, you will be surrounded by dense forests alive with wildlife, including rare birds and crocodiles basking on riverbanks sometimes.

Whitewater River Rafting Dandeli(Credits: Canva)

Trekking the trails of Coorg

• Best for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers
• Location: Coorg (Kodagu)
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction (107 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Carry rain gear, wear sturdy trekking shoes, and bring insect repellent.
• Nearby Attractions: Abbey Falls, Madikeri Fort, Dubare Elephant Camp

Coorg boasts rolling hills covered in thick forests, offering numerous trekking trails that thrive during monsoons. There is a popular trail leading up to Tadiandamol Peak, which happens to be the tallest in Coorg. It meanders through shola forests enveloped in mist, open grasslands, and gurgling streams before eventually reaching breathtaking summits. During the monsoon, the rain-drenched landscape is adorned with wildflowers and orchids, making this trek a journey into Mother Nature’s lap.

Trekking the trails of coorg(Credits:Canva)

Parasailing at Om Beach, Gokarna

• Best for thrill-seekers and beach lovers
• Location: Om Beach, Gokarna
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Gokarna Road (10 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Ensure proper harnessing and follow the safety instructions provided by the operators.
• Nearby Attractions: Kudle Beach, Gokarna Temple, Mirjan Fort

Om Beach in Gokarna offers a parasailing experience mixed with adventure activities amid beautiful scenery. As you are being towed behind a boat up in the sky, you get to see an aerial view of its famous om-shaped coastline amidst green vegetation and blue water bodies.

Parasailing at Om Beach(Credits:Canva)

Bouldering in Hampi

• Best for rock climbers and history buffs
• Location: Hampi
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction (13 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Use chalk to keep hands dry and wear appropriate climbing shoes.
• Nearby Attractions: Virupaksha Temple, Vithala Temple, Hampi Bazaar

While many ancient ruins have made Hampi a world-famous UNESCO heritage site, Hampi also has great bouldering sites that are very popular among climbers worldwide. Due to the huge granite boulders’ surreal landscape, which provides climbs for beginners as well as experts, anyone can visit these places irrespective of his or her skill level. When one visits Hampi for bouldering, it is a lot more than just climbing; it’s like living in history where the rocks have seen the ages of human civilization.

Bouldering in Hampi(Credits:Canva)

Microlight flying in Mysore

• Best for aviation enthusiasts and adventure seekers
• Location: Mysore
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction.
• Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and secure all loose items before the flight.
• Nearby Attractions: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, Brindavan Gardens

Go through a thrilling experience of microlight flying in Mysore. Under this adventurous activity, one can fly a small light aircraft guided by experienced pilots. Hovering the vast expanse of Mysore’s royal palaces, luxuriant gardens, and scenic landscapes offers a unique perspective and an exhilarating experience. Thus, it gives a lifetime remembrance due to the open cockpit; the wind blowing in your face coupled with unobstructed views makes it phenomenal.

Microlight flying in Mysore(Credits:Canva)

Jungle safari in Bandipur National Park

• Best for wildlife enthusiasts and families
• Location: Bandipur National Park
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction (80 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Carry binoculars and a camera, and wear neutral-coloured clothing.
• Nearby Attractions: Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, Ooty

Bandipur National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve; take a jungle safari in this wildlife sanctuary. During the monsoons, the park transforms into an emerald green paradise where many species of animals, including tigers and elephants, as well as different kinds of birds, can be seen. On guarded trips, guests have the opportunity to admire these great animals in their natural environment as well as enjoy the peaceful atmosphere characterised by big open spaces.

Jungle safari in Bandipur National Park(Credits: Canva)

Scuba diving at Netrani Island

• Best for marine life enthusiasts and adventure divers.
• Location: Netrani Island, off Murudeshwar
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Murudeshwar (20 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Ensure you have proper diving certification or take an introductory course.
• Nearby Attractions: Murudeshwar Temple, Mirjan Fort, Maravanthe Beach

Pigeon Island, or Netrani Island in Karnataka, is a popular destination for scuba diving. There is also vibrant marine life around the place, like fish of various colours, turtles, etc., with occasional whale sharks. Hence, during monsoon season, when waters are clear, it’s an advisable time for making dives because they offer fantastic opportunities for clear views underwater throughout the year, irrespective of whether one has already practised diving before or not, plus those who do it regularly know that the Nepali Islands are from out of this world experiences.

Scuba diving at Netrani Island(Credits:Canva)

Cycling in the Nilgiris

• Best for cycling enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Location: Nilgiri Hills
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Coimbatore Junction (90 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Wear a helmet, carry water, and have a basic repair kit handy.
• Nearby Attractions: Ooty, Coonoor, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary.

On the ride along the mountains of Nilgiris, one enjoys an adventure with a view. This makes the trip even more enjoyable during the monsoon when the hills get green. The roads are serpentine, taking you through tea gardens, thick forests, and small hill stations. It provides an opportunity to enjoy natural beauty and local traditions, whether it’s about steep climbs or leisurely rides in Nilgiris.

Cycling in the Nilgiris(Credits:Canva)

Windsurfing at Maravanthe Beach

• Best for water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers
• Location: Maravanthe Beach
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kundapura (12 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Take lessons if you’re a beginner and ensure proper safety gear.
• Nearby Attractions: Kodachadri Hills, Kollur Mookambika Temple, Udupi

Maravanthe Beach with its peculiar location near the Suparnika river mouth offers good conditions for windsurfing. During monsoons, there are favourable winds which make windsurfing interesting. It is both challenging and thrilling to stand on the surfboard while using that wind power to glide across waters. The scenic surroundings of Maravanthe with its clear water beaches in between palm trees serve as added interest.

Windsurfing at Maravanthe Beach(Credits:Canva)

Rock climbing at Ramanagara

• Best for rock climbers and adventure enthusiasts
• Location: Ramanagara
• How to reach: The nearest railway station is Ramanagara (4 km). Buses and taxis are available.
• Tips: Use climbing chalk and wear climbing shoes for better grip.
• Nearby Attractions: Janapada Loka, Mekedatu, Channapatna

Ramanagara, christened the ‘Land of Seven Hills,’ is a rock climber’s haven. The rainy season makes these rocky granite hills and cliffs even more challenging. Climbers can check out their skills at any difficulty level for a chance to see the great scenery at the top. As such, it is an activity that requires focus and stamina, as well as a way to commune with nature. Every ascent on its spectacular terrain becomes an unforgettable escapade.

Rock climbing at Ramanagara(Credits:Canva)

Book your stay with The Hosteller

Are you prepared for your monsoon trip to Karnataka? It does not matter if you are going to conquer the rapids in Dandeli, trek through the misty hills of Coorg, or parasail over Om Beach in Gokarna. Just like that, The Hosteller will offer you a perfect starting point.

There are many locations where hostels are located strategically. These include Chikmagalur, Coorg , Coorg Rainforest, Bangalore (Koramangala and Brigade Road), and Gokarna where, after spending all day full of adrenaline rushes, you can find a very comfortable and friendly hostel.

In addition to being vibrant communities of fellow travellers, all our hostels have cosy dormitories and private rooms to ensure they foster comfort and unity. So pack your bags and book a room at The Hosteller today for an unforgettable adventure among the natural wonders of Karnataka’s heartland. Here is the beginning of your great journey!