Karikanamma Hilltop rises to around 1,500 feet above the coast, about half an hour's drive inland from Honavar. From the top, the forested ridges of the Western Ghats roll away in every direction and, on a clear day, you can trace the Sharavathi River down to the sea.
The Shri Karikaana Parameshwari Temple, home of the goddess locals call Karikanamma, crowns the hill. The goddess is a form of Kali and the sanctum is carved out of a single rock. It is one of the most revered shrines in the region and is especially busy during Navaratri. The surrounding forest is rich in birds and butterflies and it's the starting point for the jungle trek and the forest walk to Ondadike Shambhulingeshwara Temple.
Stop at Areangadi at the foot of the hill for a famous gudbud ice cream at Malnad Ice Land.
Tips
- Mist often hangs in the valleys until about 9 am.
- Respect the temple: remove footwear and dress modestly.
