Murudeshwar Beach is a long and stunning stretch of golden sand lined with tall palm trees. The blue waters of the Arabian Sea and the serene atmosphere make it an ideal place to relax and unwind. The beach has various shacks and little restaurants selling local delicacies. Visitors can indulge in water sports activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Also known as Pigeon Island, Netrani Island is a coral island located off the coast of the Murudeshwar beach. The island is a popular diving site, and its clear blue waters make it perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is home to an abundance of marine life, including butterflyfish, angelfish, and triggerfish, making it an ideal spot for underwater photography. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful coral formations and underwater caves.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Murudeshwar, the Murudeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and located on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea. The temple has the second-largest Shiva statue in the world, standing at 123 feet. The temple complex also houses a museum and a beautiful garden. Visitors can enjoy the temple architecture and the panoramic view of the surrounding sea and hills.
The Murudeshwar Fort was built by the Vijayanagara kings and later reconstructed by Tipu Sultan. The fort is now in ruins, but tourists can still walk through the remains and admire the breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea from the fort walls. The fort offers a quick history lesson of the rulers who left their mark on this coastal town.
For those with an extra day, there are other activities: Visit the Idagunji Temple, explore the Apsarakonda Waterfall, or venture into the sandalwood forests. Those who have a shorter time can skip Netrani Island or the Murudeshwar Fort. It is best to visit during the monsoon season (June-August) when the surroundings are lush green and waterfalls are flowing. Carrying sunscreen, water bottles, and insect repellent is recommended. Make sure to check the opening and closing times of the places before you visit as they vary throughout the year.