Banavasi in Karnataka - Rural Tourism

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Banavasi - Karnataka

Banavasi et against the backdrop of the Western Ghats on the banks of the Varada river, 100 km from Karwar, the visitors can meet skilled artisans, carvers excelling in sandalwood, metal and stone, as well as painters, basket weavers and potters. Distinctive agricultural practices, indigenous systems of medicine and traditional dwellings heighten the experience. For the devout, the temples of Sri Madhukeshwara, named after its madhu (honey) coloured idol, and Srimaata Parvathi with its Nandi statue are prominent. The rustic greenery nearby is heightened by Gudnapura lake, sprawling across 100 acres, where water sports rev up during the Kadamba Festival every December-January. At 'Kadambothsav', the annual December festival, folk dancers, classical musicians and Yakshagana artists steal the scene.

Banawasi District: Uttar Kannada State: Karnataka Distance from District HQ -145 km from Karwar Community: The community consists of 1500 households. A traditional South Indian village, Banawasi has a diversity of artisans involved in artistic carpentry, sandalwood carving, basket making, basinga making, pottery, black smithy, shoe-mending, and rangoli. Languages spoken: Kannada, English, Hindi. Travel Season: Throughout the year. September to March is the best time.

A nature walk along the country- side enjoying the view of paddy fields, arecanut and pineapple farms. Even a walk through lush green forests will make your holiday a very memorable one. Cycling in the surrounding areas. Discover the country side and feel the real village life. Simply explore the country side and get refreshed, rejuvenated. If you are an avid bird watcher, then Banawasi and its surroundings have so much to offer. Gudavi bird sanctuary, a small seasoned lake surrounded by moist deciduous forest is 12 kms away from Banawasi. Be a part of package tour and enjoy the beauty of scenic Uttara Kannada.Banawasi has been mentioned in ancient texts, dating back to 3012 BC. The main object of interest is the Temple of Madhukeswar built by the legendary Hindu architect Jakanacharya. Close to the temple are the remains of a place where the Sonda Kings stayed when they came to pay their respect to God

Local Culture Fairs and festivals: Car Festival: The car festival is a big event celebrated with a wish to get the blessings of God for peace and prosperity. This celebration provides an opportunity for the village community to unite and thus enhances goodwill among its members. It is held in the month of March, every year. Mahashivaratri: The birthday of Lord Shiva is celebrated in a big way at Madhukeshwara temple. During Mahashivaratri, devotees from different parts of the state gather in Banawasi, leading to a festive like mood throughout the village. Mahashivaratri usually comes in the month of February. Kadambotsava: Since ages, through out the centuries. Banawasi has always been a centre of culture. Eminent poet Pampa in his poems has described the beauty and grandness of 'Madhumahotsava', a spring festival celebrated during Kadamba reign. With Kadambotsava, an annual event organised by the state government, Banawasi regains its former glory as a cultural capital. Renowned classical musicians, yakshagana artistes, drama troupes, folk dancers and eminent literary personalities assemble for Kadambotsava and make it a huge cultural fete. This is organised usually in the month of December. Lakshadeepotsava: A wonderful is scene created at the Madhukeshwara temple, when thousands of small diyas (lamps) lit up by village people at temple premises during Lakshadeepotsava. This simply takes you to some other world. This festival is celebrated during the month of November/December.

Art & Craft Artisans of Banawasi: The Gudigar community of Banawasi arc versatile craftsmen. They carve, sculpt, paint and mould using different media to prepare idols. They excel when it comes to sandalwood and teak wood carving. Beside Gudigars, there are many other skilled craftsmen like carpenters, potmakcrs, rangoli artists etc who excel in their trade. Local artisans have joined together and have founded a organisation to promote local crafts and to ensure the welfare of local artisan community. 'Vaijayanti', the shop run by this organisation is situated in the new tourism complex. Here you get to see and purchase locally crafted, excellent products. In the months of November, December and January, the annual 'Banawasi Kalamela', a fair of local craftsmen held in the premises of Vaijayanti. It gives the

How to Reach The near by town Sirsi is 23 km away from Banawasi. There is local bus service from Sirsi to Banawasi at every half an hour. Tourist taxis are also available from Sirsi. The near by cities which have air and train facilities are Hubli - l00 kms, Dabolim (Goa) - 245 km. The district centre Karwar is connected by Konkan Railway and is 145 km away from Banawasi. Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka is 345 km away from Banawasi.