Upriver from Honavar, the Sharavathi River wraps around Haigunda, a green island village of areca gardens and old houses, once known as Paivegundapura. It sits about 20 km from town, on the way towards Gerusoppa and feels a world away from the coast.
The island is known for its early sculpture. A Yaksha statue about 1.8 metres tall, which locals call 'Babri', is dated to around the 1st–2nd century CE and there are other old figures, including a Mahavishnu. Local tradition links the island to the Havyaka families brought to the region by the Kadamba king Mayuravarma.
Combine it with the Samshi hanging bridge and the Chaturmukha Basadi at Gerusoppa for a day up the river.
Tips
- Treat the old statues with care and ask before photographing people and homes.
