As Agumbe is surrounded by dense forest on the hills of the Western Ghats, Many travel enthusiasts now prefer to visit this small but treasure-trove village for nature-based tourism. The Karnataka government has also made various efforts to develop tourism here, because many of the rare species of frogs, snakes, cobras and other wild creatures are found in the forests surrounding this village. In this area, there is an abundance of reptiles like snakes and cobras and the number of majestic king cobras, known as Rajnaag in India, is also significant here. Therefore, this area has been specially reserved as the habitat of cobras.
Many millennials might remember a serial based on the book by R.K. Narayan named "Malgudi Days". It was aired on television in 1986, and the majority shooting of that serial took place here in Agumbe. There is a 14th-century Venugopalakrishna Swamy temple located in Agumbe, which consists of very interesting architecture. Since it is nestled in the lap of nature, there are hundreds of small and large waterfalls near the place. Those who are interested in watching water falling from thousands of feet can visit waterfalls like Barkana, Onek Abbey, Jogi Gundi, and Kudlu Tirth here. Since they are located deep in the forest near Agumbe, you have to walk for a few kilometers to reach each of these waterfalls.
There is also a small lake near the forest check post in Agumbe, where boating facilities are available. Apart from this, the road to reach Agumbe is also very interesting. There are a total of 14 hairpin bends on this road, and the experience of passing through feels like sitting on a roller coaster.
In the surrounding area near Agumbe, many sunset points have been prepared by the forest department, where one can have a great time while enjoying the mesmerizing view of sunset and having tea and snacks. Located in the vicinity of nature, many people from the surrounding cities come to this village to find peace, but in Agumbe pleasure of seeing Nagaraj in the forest is most thrilling. Various species of snakes are seen roaming freely in this area. Apart from that, due to dense forest nearby, there is a possibility of seeing wild animals like leopards, jackals, deer, etc and spotting rare species of birds.
Where to stay?
Since Agumbe is not a very big village, there are no special options available for accommodation here. Apart from a few hotels and homestays, there are no other options available for accommodation here. One of the interesting stays, called Sitanadi Forest Camp, is located 15 kilometers from Agumbe. This place is the best resort in this area, but it is located at a distance from the main attractions. A nearby town of Tirthali, is also a good option for those who are okay with staying at a distance. Tirthali is located 30 kilometers from Agumbe and comparatively big town and has more options. There are also some hotels of Karnataka Tourism here, apart from which few budget to premium options for staying are available in Tirthali.
Mangalore is located at a short distance from Agumbe. Being almost 100 kilometers away, many people prefer to stay in Mangalore and come here on a day trip. For those who want to visit the surrounding area while staying in Mangalore, it will prove to be more convenient to stay in the city. There are many small and big restaurants in Agumbe for food. Where you will definitely get local delicacies.
How to reach?
If you want to reach Agumbe by air, Mangalore is the nearest airport. If you want to come here by rail, Mangalore and Shivamogga are the nearest railway stations. Both these cities are well connected by train with all the states of the country, including Gujarat.
However, the experience of coming to Agumbe by road will prove to be the best. Direct buses are available to this village from Bangalore and Mangalore. In which you can enjoy the journey while watching the natural beauty spread all around. Apart from this, you can also come to Agumbe by taxi from either of these cities. There are rickshaw and car options available to travel around Agumbe. Since all the places worth visiting are located nearby, you can also walk everywhere if you are interested.