Mangaluru to Honavar

The route

From the airport join NH66 north via Mulki, Udupi, Kundapura, Byndoor, Bhatkal and Murudeshwar to Honavar. The road is a fast four-lane highway for almost the whole way. Fun fact: it can take less time to reach Honavar from Mangaluru airport than to get from Bengaluru airport to Electronic City.

Stops worth making

Udupi for a temple-town lunch, Maravanthe where the highway runs between sea and river and Murudeshwar for its giant Shiva statue.

By train

Konkan Railway trains run from Mangaluru Central and Junction to Honavar (HNA) in about 3 to 3.5 hours.

By bus

Frequent KSRTC and private buses run along NH66 from Mangaluru and Udupi.

Quick facts

Arriving in Honavar

Honavar railway station (code HNA) is at Karki, about 5 km from town. Autos and cabs wait outside. Overnight buses and trains often arrive early in the morning while most stays check in around 2 pm, so ask your stay about early check-in, or spend the first morning at the mangrove boardwalk (from 9 am) or Eco Beach.

Getting around once you're here

Use auto-rickshaws for short trips in town and hire a local cab for half or full days to reach the waterfalls, temples and day trips. See all transport options in Honavar.

When to travel

October to February is the best time to visit, with dry days and calm seas. March to May is the summer beach season. From June to October the monsoon brings roaring waterfalls but heavy rain, so plan to cross the Western Ghats in daylight. Read more on the best time to visit Honavar.

Plan your stay

We recommend three to four days. Start with our Honavar itineraries, pick a place to stay and browse the best things to do in Honavar.