Mirjan Fort: The 16th century structure that is taken over by moss during the monsoons

It was an important trading center for pepper, cassia and nutmeg between the 16th and the 19th century. It has stood the test of time in spite of countless battles. While there are many theories regarding its exact history, it is clear that it has seen the rule of Vijayanagara kings, Bijapur sultans, Keladi kings, the Marathas and the British. I am talking about the laterite rock structure called Mirjan Fort that is located by the banks of the Aghanashini river between Kumta and Gokarna in the Uttara Kannada region of Karnataka.



While this 16th century monument enjoys a rich past, I like it for its vibrant green colour that it dons during the monsoon season. The high humidity, the bright sunshine and the consistent heavy showers ensures that moss takes over this reddish brown laterite rock structure and turns it into a green paradise that is surrounded by even more greenery. The swaying coconut palms, the tropical forests and the Western Ghats in the background complete this magical green concoction.



In its hey days, Mirjan fort enjoyed a protective circular moat, high turrets on its bastions, secret passages, darbar halls, markets, water management, prayer halls, watch towers and more. Today, the structure stands tall in all its glory minus the internal structures and allows nature to decorate it the way it pleases. This decoration by mother nature is very pleasing to the eye and is the main reason for you to visit Mirjan fort in the monsoons and may be right after.

History lovers and archaeology students might see way more details in this historical structure, but to the eye of the regular visitor, it is this green world that completely mesmerizes them. I highly recommend visiting this historical gem in the monsoons.



Best season to visit:

The monsoons and the post winter months are best to see the Mirjan fort decked completely in green. They also happen to have the most pleasant weather.

One can also visit in the spring and summer months, but mostly in the cooler times of the morning and late evening. High humidity might be an issue in this season.



How to reach here:

The nearest railway station would be Kumta. The nearest airport would either be Hubli in Karnataka or Panjim in Goa.

Mirajn Fort is about 12 kms north of Kumta and 21 kms south of Gokarna. Buses playing between Kumta and Gokarna or Karwar will drop you on the NH 66 highway point that leads to the Mirjan Fort. From this point, it should be a 5 to 10 minute walk on flat land.



Where to stay:

If beach resorts are on your mind, the beach cottages at Gokarna would be your best bet. South Goa and Maravanthe beach, though a bit far away would also be good choices.

If forest stays are on your mind, you should try the homestays located in the Sirsi – Yellapur region. My favorite is the Tavarumane homestay that is located near Jajjigudde village.

If good quality budget accommodation is on your mind, try the hotels at Kumta, Sirsi or Honavara.

If luxury accommodation is what you crave, try the ones at Kundapura, Goa, Hubli, Udupi or Mangalore.



Where to eat:

The nearest place to eat would be either Kumta or Gokarna. While Gokarna might have more beach facing restaurants, Kumta has slightly larger restaurants.

If you prefer to stick to the highway, there are various highway restaurants catering to different needs of their visitors.



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Gokarna: The coastal town known for its temples and pristine beaches

2) Karwar: The town on the Karnataka-Goa border known for its offshore islands, black sandy beaches and Kali river estuary

3) Apsarakonda Falls: A gorgeous waterfall located real close to the Arabian Sea

4) Sharavati river valley: The view of Shola forests surrounding the Linganamkki reservoir on the Sagara – Honavara highway

5) Jog Falls: One of the highest waterfalls of India and an iconic landmark of Karnataka

6) Yana rocks and caves: A magical place in the forests of Karnataka

7) Vibhooti Falls: Karnataka’s jungle waterfall with a natural swimming pool

8) Unchalli Falls: Stunning monsoon holiday destination of Karnataka

9) Magod Falls: One of the most magnificent waterfalls of Karnataka

10) Sathodi Falls: Karnataka’s prettiest jungle waterfall

11) Bilihole Falls: Hidden waterfall amidst the untouched forests of the Western Ghats in Karnataka

12) Sirsi Marikamba Temple: A 16th century temple dedicated to goddess Durga and that is an iconic landmark of Uttara Kannada

13) Maravanthe Beach: The highway rider’s favorite pitstop

Continue Reading...

The Beaches of Gokarna, Karnataka, India – It can’t get any better!!

The previous evening, I had visited the Yaana hills nestled in the Western Ghats nearby. I had returned to camp the night at Gokarna – the town that is known for its beaches and its spirituality.


Gokarna is situated on the Karavali coast, to the north of Kumta and is nestled between the mouths of the rivers Agnashini and Gangavali. It is situated about 470 km NW of Bangalore.


Early in the morning, I went to the Mahabaleshwar temple to offer my prayers. It is here that I saw the 6 foot tall atmalinga. The entire streets surrounding the temple carry the fragrance and paraphernalia that one associates with pilgrimage towns.


Next, I began my beach visits. First on my list was the one that was the closest – the Gokarna beach. When I reached here, I found out that this was more the pilgrim’s beach and people take their religious bath here before proceeding to the temple.


I trekked 30 minutes south to reach a fine stretch of beach that is called the Kudle beach. This beach is nearly a kilometre long and is crescent shaped. It was cleaner than the Gokarna beach and was pretty popular with the tourists considering the amount of shacks and shops alike that were present near the beach.


I had lunch on the Kudle beach at one of the small shacks near and walked back to the temple where my bike was parked. From here, I rode through small roads that took me uphill.


After riding for about 5 kms, I was treated to fabulous views of the Kudle beach and the rocky cliffs. Another 3 kms uphill ride and a walk down the 100 steps below took me to the extremely picturesque OM Beach.


This beach gets its name from the two semi-circular coves that join to form an inverted symbol of OM. This beach is known for its spiritual hippies – with ash smeared on their foreheads, tattoos all over their body, long hair and beard and beads all over.


A great beach getaway – the OM Beach offers a lot for the tourist – relaxation, yoga, beach sports and some water sports. A lot of Europeans prefer this beach to the ones in Goa and one can spot them renting shacks for months, soaking in the sun, playing their guitar and living at one of nature’s best hideouts.


Close by are the more secluded Half Moon and Paradise beaches. One has to climb over the rocky cliffs or take a boat ride to reach them. Since I was running short on time, I couldn’t visit them, but plan to definitely camp there when I am headed towards Gokarna in the future.


Another popular option at Gokarna is to go on a moonlight trek from the Gokarna to the Half Moon beaches via the Kudle and OM beaches. A lot of outdoor groups organize such trekking activities.

The beaches of Gokarna – a pure and timeless experience!!

Related articles by Zemanta

• Chilling out at Calangute and Baga Beach - the biggest draws in Goa, India (beontheroad.com)
• Riding past the Cruise Boats on Mandovi River at Panjim, Goa, India (beontheroad.com)

Continue Reading...