Honnemaradu or the Golden Lake is a popular tourist place on the backwaters of River Sharavathi. The backdrop of the green Western Ghats make the place the perfect getaway for those who love to be amidst nature. The lake is the perfect place for a variety of water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, boating and more. Honnemaradu is one of the most striking manmade lakes in the state of Karnataka.

Location

Honnemaradu is a small village which offers a great view of the Linganamakki Reservoir. It is located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka and approximately 25 km from Sagara. The famous Jog Falls is also on the same route.

What to Look For

The colossal water body also includes a small island that’s the favorite place of camping enthusiasts. Tourists also come here for bird watching. Various species of local as well as migratory birds can be seen here throughout the year. There are many types of stunningly beautiful and rare species of butterflies also in Honnemaradu. The reservoir covers a large stretch of area that measures 50 km by 80 km in dimension, making it one of the largest in the state.

Exciting Possibilities for Outdoor Adventurists

Water sports is the key reason why people come to this place apart from the enjoying the opportunity Honnemaradu presents to have a closer look at the amazing beauty of nature in its full splendor. Those who love to mix adventure with vacation will find this place just perfect for their intentions. Honnemaradu offers a delightful experience for water sport enthusiasts, trekking and those who love to get lost in the arms of nature.

The complete absence of any signs of modern civilization is what makes Honnemaradu truly unique in every sense. You can pitch tents for camping, join the local camp managed by professionals and enjoy a host of water sport activities such as canoeing, coracle and much more. There are professional trainers available for kayaking and wind surfing too at Honnemaradu. In brief, if you want to enjoy a vacation that’s different from what you have been doing all your life, then Honnemaradu is the place to head to.

Information for Visitors

There are certain strict norms followed by the local administration that visitors must adhere to. No alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, plastic disposables and other types of pollutants are allowed here. If you do, they will be seized. You will have to carry back the disposable items because littering is banned.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Honnemaradu is during the months from September through February. The weather is pleasant and cool and the water level in the reservoir is at its highest during these months.

How to Reach

By Bus

You can reach Talaguppa by road and then take a local transport to reach Honnemaradu. Talaguppa is 15 km from the place. Honnemaradu is 380 km from Bengaluru and 30 km from Dabbe.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is Talaguppa about 12 km from the place. Shimoga railway station is 58 km away.

By Air

The nearest airport is Bengaluru Kempe Gowda International Airport which is 380 km away.