Here’s a complete overview of the Hulikal Ghat , one of the most scenic and lesser-known ghat roads in Karnataka, famous for its intense rainfall , lush greenery, and serene landscapes.
🏞️ Hulikal Ghat Overview
Location: Connects Hosanagara (Shivamogga district) with Kodachadri / Kollur (Udupi district) via Malenadu .Part of: Western Ghats Road: State Highway SH-77 (via Hulikal village)Connects: Hosanagara ↔ Hulikal ↔ Mastikatte ↔ Hosangadi / Kollur
🌧️ Why is Hulikal Ghat Famous?
Feature Description Rainfall One of the wettest places in India , rivaling Cherrapunji and Agumbe. Forests Thick tropical rainforest – part of Sharavathi Valley ecosystem. Scenery Misty hills, dense canopies, streams, and rolling green valleys. Quiet Route Lesser traffic compared to Agumbe or Shiradi ghats – more peaceful.
📍 How to Reach Hulikal Ghat
✅ From Shivamogga / Hosanagara
Route: Shivamogga → Ripponpet → Hosanagara → Hulikal → MastikatteDistance:
Shivamogga to Hulikal: ~90 km
Hosanagara to Hulikal: ~25 km
Time: ~2–2.5 hours
✅ From Kollur / Kundapura (Coastal Side)
Route: Kundapura → Kollur → Hosangadi → Mastikatte → HulikalDistance:
Kundapura to Hulikal: ~70 km
Kollur to Hulikal: ~45 km
🧭 Nearby Attractions
Place Description Kodachadri Hill Trekking hotspot near Hulikal; famous for sunrise views. Sharavathi Backwaters Scenic, remote areas near Mastikatte and Kargal. Linganamakki Dam On the Sharavathi River; near Sagar town (~60 km). Kollur Mookambika Temple Famous pilgrimage center on the western side of the ghat.
⚠️ Road & Weather Conditions
Feature Notes Road Quality Generally good but narrow in places; patchy during monsoon Rainy Season June to September: heavy rain, fog, landslides possible Driving Tip Use low gear while descending; watch for wildlife and water runoff Fuel & Food Available in Hosanagara or Mastikatte – none in forest areas
🚍 Transport Options
Private vehicles are best for exploring.KSRTC buses operate between Shivamogga – Kollur , passing through Hulikal.Nearest railway stations:
🧳 Ideal For:
Nature lovers 🌳
Monsoon chasers 🌧️
Road trippers 🚗
Bird watchers 🐦
Trekkers (to Kodachadri) 🥾
🧾 Summary Table
Feature Details Location Shivamogga & Udupi border Connects Hosanagara ↔ Kollur via Hulikal & Mastikatte Rainfall Ranking Among the top 3 in India Best Time to Visit October to March Ghat Road Quality Moderate – narrow but scenic Nearby Trek Kodachadri (entry via Kattinahole or Sampekatte)
