Bhatkal, a town with a history as rich as a chocolate cake, is a hidden gem located in Uttara Kannada. It boasts of being one of the oldest ports in India and is easily accessible through the Konkan railway or NH 17. The town is surrounded by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, making it a perfect blend of nature's wonders.
If you're a history buff, Bhatkal will not disappoint you. The place was the main port during the Vijayanagar kingdom in the 16th century and is home to two shrines, Vijayanagara Temple and Jain Chandranath Basadi, that have animal pictures carved on them. The fort behind these temples was renovated by Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore.
Bhatkal Beach is a must-visit for all beach lovers. It is surrounded by hills, coconut trees, and the Arabian Sea, making it a picturesque location. The beach was a major port during the Vijayanagara Empire and is recognized for its two major shrines, Vijayanagara Temple and Jain Chandranath Basadi. The lighthouse located at the beach provides a breathtaking view of the sea and the nearby areas.
The Bhatkal Light House, built in 1891, is a notable attraction and should not be missed. It used to be a white stone masonry tower that was converted into a lighthouse in 1936. The new lighthouse tower was positioned on the hill during 1956-1958 and has a metal halide lamp that replaced the main source of light in 1998.
Kadavinakatta Dam, constructed across Venkatapur River, is among the major sources of water supply for Bhatkal. It is a great place to visit, but swimming here is not recommended due to the high risk involved.
Overall, Bhatkal is a town that will leave you bewitched and enchanted. It is a perfect place to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature. So, pack your bags and head to Bhatkal, Namma hemme.