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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded

Honnamana Kere
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, largest natural lake in Kodagu, offering a peaceful escape with a holy temple and stunning hilltop views.
"Very peaceful & beautiful lake. Don't expect anything else. Very serene."

🚗 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!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
A short trek rewards you with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, especially stunning at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Embrace the Natural Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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!
🙏 Respect the Holy Site
It's a sacred place. Be mindful of the temple and its surroundings.
⚠️ Watch Little Ones
No fencing near the lake and temple. Keep a close eye on children.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 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!
🙏 Respect the Holy Site
It's a sacred place. Be mindful of the temple and its surroundings.
⚠️ Watch Little Ones
No fencing near the lake and temple. Keep a close eye on children.
📸 Capture the Serenity
The lake and landscape offer stunning photographic opportunities.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. 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.
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. Parking is available at the site.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
No, advance booking is not required as there are no entry tickets. You can visit anytime.
The temple is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific pooja timings might vary, but the site itself is open for visitors to see.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
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.
Facilities are very basic. You might find very limited options for restrooms or shops. It's advisable to carry your own water and snacks.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the landscape and water.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Goddess Honnamma
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. 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.
Trekking to Gavi Betta: A Rewarding Climb
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. Many visitors find this viewpoint to be a highlight of their trip, offering a different perspective of the region's natural beauty.
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. The reward, however, is an unforgettable experience and some of the best photographic opportunities in the area.
The Drive: A Scenic Prelude
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. The winding roads through coffee estates and verdant landscapes make it a delightful journey for nature lovers and photographers alike.
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.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit