Honnama Temple
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Honnamana Kere

4.5
·191 reviews·, India

A serene, largest natural lake in Kodagu, offering a peaceful escape with a holy temple and stunning hilltop views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and less crowded

CrowdLow
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Honnama Temple

Honnamana Kere

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and less crowded

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene, largest natural lake in Kodagu, offering a peaceful escape with a holy temple and stunning hilltop views.

4.5
(191 reviews)

"Very peaceful & beautiful lake. Don't expect anything else. Very serene."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Scenic Drive Ahead

The drive from Madikeri is incredibly scenic with lush greenery. Enjoy the journey!

🚶‍♀️ Trek to Gavi Betta

A moderate trek offers amazing Western Ghats views, especially at sunset. Worth the effort!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Honnamana Kere Lake

Honnamana Kere Lake

The largest natural lake in Kodagu, offering serene waters and lush green surroundings. A truly peaceful escape.

Goddess Honnamma Temple

Goddess Honnamma Temple

A holy site with a captivating story, this waterfront temple adds a divine touch to the serene lake.

Gavi Betta Hilltop View

Gavi Betta Hilltop View

A short trek rewards you with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, especially stunning at sunset.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and truly soak in the serene atmosphere. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography and a peaceful experience.

Embrace the Natural Beauty

Honnamana Kere is about natural charm, not developed amenities. Come prepared for a peaceful escape, not a bustling tourist hub. The drive itself is a scenic delight.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful and less crowded
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Honnamana Kere Lake | Coorg | #reels #coorg #travel
coupletrippin
33 likes • 593 views

🚗 Scenic Drive Ahead

The drive from Madikeri is incredibly scenic with lush greenery. Enjoy the journey! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trek to Gavi Betta

A moderate trek offers amazing Western Ghats views, especially at sunset. Worth the effort! Instagram

Never stop your footsteps… 📍honnamana kere🚶‍♂️ . . . . . . . #footsteps #wildnature #view #cave #jungle #insta #instagram #video #trending #reels #travel
nn.buddhist.monk.official
522 likes • 11.1K views
Honnamana Kere #i15 #hiddengems #travelwithme
poshith_raj_16
0 likes • 2K views

🙏 Respect the Holy Site

It's a sacred place. Be mindful of the temple and its surroundings. Reddit

⚠️ Watch Little Ones

No fencing near the lake and temple. Keep a close eye on children. Reddit

This place is in Coorg., 📍 Honnamana Kere, Gavi Betaa | Somwarpete | Coorg Located 45km from coorg town, A small trek of 1-2hr on Gavi betta is really worth to see beautiful western ghats., Easy trek… If you’re bored of madikeri or coorg. you can plan a stay near to Somwarpete.. so crowd will be lesser and many new places you can visit in somwarpete like.. 1. Gavi Betta 2. Surlabbi waterfalls...
bharath_ramanna
207 likes • 3.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Scenic Drive Ahead

The drive from Madikeri is incredibly scenic with lush greenery. Enjoy the journey! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trek to Gavi Betta

A moderate trek offers amazing Western Ghats views, especially at sunset. Worth the effort! Instagram

🙏 Respect the Holy Site

It's a sacred place. Be mindful of the temple and its surroundings. Reddit

⚠️ Watch Little Ones

No fencing near the lake and temple. Keep a close eye on children. Reddit

📸 Capture the Serenity

The lake and landscape offer stunning photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(191 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Honnamana Kere, calling it a hidden gem. The scenic drive and the spiritual significance of the temple are frequently highlighted. However, some note the lack of development and basic amenities, and caution is advised for families due to safety concerns around the lake.

"Very peaceful & beautiful lake. Government should develop this place. The drive from Madikere is really beautiful. Throughout drive lush greenery on both sides. The small temple and lake. Don't expect anything else. Very serene. There is small road which goes towards Gavi Betta. But as no one else was there, we didn't go. There are steps to go to the top to see sunset. But as there were no other tourist it makes bit scary."

Pankaj Toshniwal

"Goddess Honnamma Temple, which is located in Doddamalthe village near somawarpete, coorg.
This is a holy place known for its real story of honnamma .The surrounding has a beautiful lake with mesmerizing view. The place gives you divine feeling and peaceful refreshment."

sachin rai

"Honnammana Kere (LAKE) happens to be one of the most beautiful and mesmerizing lakes covered with Great lush green trees and silence. The silence is mixed with Chirping of birds & that makes it the most peaceful place ever. Completely located interior around 3-4Kms in village called as Dodd-Malte from main highway while on the way to Shanivarsanthe. This place comes under SOMWARPET COORG. This place is named after a goddess Honnammana. There are two temples located at this spot. Just exactly above the temple.opposit to it is a beautiful lake spread.
There is also a rocky mountain. Space for parking available. One needs to be careful with kids as there is no fencing made infront of Temple and the lake water reaches the temple steps very easily. Must visit place in Coorg.."

Venkatesh Goudar

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Beautiful natural scenery
Scenic drive

What People Dislike

Lack of amenities
Safety concerns for kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The drive from Madikeri to Honnamana Kere is approximately 45 km and is known for its beautiful, lush green scenery on both sides of the road. Reddit It's best to have your own vehicle or hire a taxi for this route, as public transport might be limited. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours depending on road conditions and traffic. Instagram

Yes, Honnamana Kere is accessible by car. The road leading to the lake is generally good, though there might be some interior village roads that are narrower. Instagram Parking is available at the site. Reddit

Honnamana Kere is located about 6 km from Somwarpet town. You can take a local taxi or a private vehicle. The drive is short and passes through coffee estates and scenic landscapes. Instagram+1

While direct public transport might be scarce, you can take a bus to Somwarpet and then hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Honnamana Kere. Instagram

Honnamana Kere is quite a distance from Bengaluru, typically around 250-270 km, which is about a 5-6 hour drive. It's often visited as part of a Coorg itinerary rather than a standalone day trip from Bengaluru. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entry fee to visit Honnamana Kere Lake and the temple. It's a natural attraction and a holy place, so access is generally free. Reddit

Honnamana Kere is open throughout the day and night, as it's a natural lake and a public space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better experience, especially if you plan to trek. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required as there are no entry tickets. You can visit anytime. Reddit

The temple is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific pooja timings might vary, but the site itself is open for visitors to see. Reddit

While sunset offers beautiful views from Gavi Betta, it can get a bit isolated and potentially scary if you are alone, as there are no other tourists. It's advisable to be with a group or leave before it gets too dark. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy the serene lake views, visit the Goddess Honnamma Temple, and trek up Gavi Betta for panoramic views of the Western Ghats. It's a great spot for nature photography and relaxation. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is a trek to Gavi Betta, which is a rocky mountain offering stunning views. The trek is described as a bit challenging but rewarding. InstagramReddit

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal. Mornings offer a peaceful start with bird songs, while afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light for photography and sunset views from Gavi Betta. InstagramReddit

Facilities are very basic. You might find very limited options for restrooms or shops. It's advisable to carry your own water and snacks. Reddit

While beautiful, caution is advised with young children due to the lack of fencing near the temple and lake. The trekking path can also be challenging for very young kids. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake itself, with its reflections and surrounding greenery, is a prime spot. The Goddess Honnamma Temple provides a cultural element. The summit of Gavi Betta offers breathtaking landscape shots, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the landscape and water. Instagram

There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage. However, it's always best to check local guidelines and be respectful of the religious nature of the site. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and the lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the Western Ghats. A tripod will help with low-light photography during sunrise/sunset. Instagram

Photography inside the temple premises might be restricted. It's best to be respectful and check for any signage or ask locals before taking pictures inside the sanctum. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Honnamana Kere offers a beautiful natural setting, but families should exercise caution. There's no fencing around the lake or the temple, meaning the water comes right up to the steps. Reddit This requires constant supervision of young children. The trek to Gavi Betta might also be challenging for very small children. However, the serene environment and the story of Goddess Honnamma can be engaging for older kids. Consider visiting during daylight hours and staying close to the main temple area for a safer experience. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

This is an ideal destination for solo travelers seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. The peaceful atmosphere, the gentle lapping of the lake, and the chirping of birds create a perfect environment for meditation and introspection. InstagramReddit Visiting on weekdays ensures minimal crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serenity. The trek to Gavi Betta offers a sense of accomplishment and stunning views, adding to the enriching solo experience. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts

Honnamana Kere is a photographer's delight. The largest natural lake in Kodagu offers stunning reflections, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1 The surrounding coffee estates and the rolling hills of the Western Ghats provide a picturesque backdrop. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the panoramic views from Gavi Betta, which are particularly dramatic at dusk. Instagram Remember to bring your wide-angle lens and a tripod for those breathtaking landscape shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Goddess Honnamma

Honnamana Kere is named after Goddess Honnamma, a revered figure in the local folklore. Legend has it that a woman named Honnamma sacrificed herself by jumping into the lake to appease the goddess and ensure prosperity for the region. This act of sacrifice is commemorated annually during the Gowri festival with a special pooja and the offering of a 'Bagina' (belongings of the goddess). Instagram This spiritual significance adds a layer of depth to the natural beauty of the place, drawing devotees and curious travelers alike.

The temple dedicated to Goddess Honnamma is situated right by the lake, making it a focal point for visitors. The serene environment around the temple and lake is believed to offer a divine feeling and peaceful refreshment to those who visit. Reddit The story of Honnamma imbues the location with a sense of sanctity and local heritage, making it more than just a picturesque spot.

This blend of natural splendor and spiritual legend makes Honnamana Kere a unique destination. Travelers often speak of the tranquil atmosphere and the profound sense of peace they experience here, a testament to its sacred origins and its captivating landscape. InstagramReddit

Trekking to Gavi Betta: A Rewarding Climb

For those seeking a bit more adventure, the trek to Gavi Betta is a must-do. Located opposite the temple, this rocky hill offers a moderate challenge and, more importantly, spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Western Ghats. Instagram The ascent is described as being filled with greenery and stones, making for an engaging hike. Reddit

The effort is well worth it, especially for sunset. The vantage point from Gavi Betta provides breathtaking vistas of the rolling hills, coffee estates, and the vast expanse of the Coorg landscape. Instagram Many visitors find this viewpoint to be a highlight of their trip, offering a different perspective of the region's natural beauty. Reddit

It's advisable to be cautious when trekking, especially if you are alone or if it's getting late. The path can be a bit challenging, so wear appropriate footwear. Reddit The reward, however, is an unforgettable experience and some of the best photographic opportunities in the area. Instagram

The Drive: A Scenic Prelude

The journey to Honnamana Kere is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. The drive, particularly from Madikeri, is consistently praised for its scenic beauty. Reddit Travelers often describe the route as being lined with lush greenery on both sides, creating a visually stunning prelude to the serene lake. Instagram

This picturesque drive contributes to the overall tranquil and immersive experience of visiting Honnamana Kere. It allows visitors to gradually disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the natural charm of Coorg. Instagram The winding roads through coffee estates and verdant landscapes make it a delightful journey for nature lovers and photographers alike. Instagram

Even if you're not heading directly to the lake, the drive through this part of Coorg is recommended for its sheer natural appeal. It sets the tone for a peaceful and refreshing visit, making the entire trip more enjoyable. Instagram

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