Sakleshpur Road Trip: Shettihalli Church & Manjarabad Fort from Bangalore
Some of the most memorable journeys are the ones you don’t plan too much. Our impromptu Sakleshpur road trip from Bangalore, planned during the kids’ Dussehra vacation, turned out to be one of the most refreshing short getaways we’ve experienced in recent times.
What made this trip special wasn’t just the destination — it was the slow pace, hidden heritage spots, lush Western Ghats scenery, and the joy of disconnecting from everyday routines. If you’re looking for an offbeat weekend trip from Bangalore, this guide will help you plan it right.
Why Sakleshpur Is a Perfect Weekend Getaway from Bangalore
Sakleshpur is a quiet hill town nestled in the Western Ghats, known for:
- Coffee and tea plantations
- Misty hills and waterfalls
- Heritage forts and churches
- Less crowded roads compared to mainstream hill stations
It’s ideal for:
- Families with kids
- Couples seeking a peaceful escape
- Nature lovers
- Travelers looking for short road trips from Bangalore
Distance & Drive Details from Bangalore
- Distance: ~225 km
- Driving time: 4–5 hours
- Road condition: Mostly smooth highways with scenic ghat sections
The drive itself is part of the experience — green landscapes, winding roads, and refreshing weather once you enter the Western Ghats region.
Finding a Stay: Last-Minute but Worth It
Booking accommodation during long weekends can be challenging, especially at the last minute. Luckily, we found a simple, budget-friendly homestay surrounded by greenery.
What We Loved About the Stay:
- Clean and spacious rooms
- Calm surroundings
- Warm, welcoming hosts
- Fresh, home-cooked meals
The hospitality truly stood out — thoughtful, personal, and comforting. This is exactly why homestays work best in Sakleshpur if you want an authentic experience.
First Stop: The Submerged Beauty of Shettihalli Rosary Church
Shettihalli Rosary Church is one of Karnataka’s most fascinating yet lesser-known heritage sites.
About the Church:
- Built in the 1860s by French missionaries
- Located on the banks of the Hemavathi River
- Partially submerged during monsoon months
When water levels rise, the church appears half-sunken — creating a surreal, almost mystical view. The structure changes color with sunlight, glowing golden during early mornings and turning silver under the afternoon sky.
Why You Should Visit:
- Unique photography spot
- Peaceful, uncrowded location
- Best visited during or just after monsoon
It’s one of those places where time seems to slow down.
Reaching the Homestay & Slowing Down
After a relaxed breakfast and lunch en route, we reached our homestay by around 3:00 PM. Instead of rushing out again, we chose to unwind — a decision we never regretted.
A Digital Detox in the Heart of Nature
One of the biggest surprises of this trip was the lack of mobile network coverage. Except for a faint Airtel signal near the property, there was virtually no connectivity.
And honestly? It felt liberating.
How We Spent Our Time:
- Board games with the kids (Ludo, cards, carrom)
- Long conversations without distractions
- A short walk to a nearby waterfall
- Enjoying the smell of wet earth and tea plantations
This unplanned digital detox became one of the most valuable parts of the trip.
Next Morning Stop: Manjarabad Fort
On our return journey to Bangalore, we stopped at the historic Manjarabad Fort, a must-visit if you’re driving via Sakleshpur.
About Manjarabad Fort:
- Built in the 18th century by Tipu Sultan
- Unique star-shaped architecture
- Once used as a strategic military base
What to Expect:
- Around 50–60 steps to reach the fort
- Panoramic views of the Western Ghats
- Cool breeze and open landscapes
The fort looks especially impressive when viewed from above — making the short climb absolutely worth the effort.
Other Places You Can Add to Your Sakleshpur Trip
If you have more time, consider adding:
- Bisle Ghat Viewpoint
- Jenukal Gudda trek
- Coffee estate walks
- Waterfalls around the region
Best Time to Visit Sakleshpur
- Ideal season: June to February
- Monsoon (June–September): Best for greenery & waterfalls
- Winter (October–February): Pleasant weather and clear views
Avoid peak summer months if you prefer cooler weather.
Quick Travel Tips for Sakleshpur
✅ Start early from Bangalore to avoid traffic
✅ Carry snacks and water — options are limited near attractions
✅ Wear comfortable footwear for forts and short walks
✅ Prefer homestays for better hospitality
✅ Network can be patchy — inform family in advance
Final Thoughts: Why Unplanned Trips Work
This trip reminded us of something simple yet powerful — not every journey needs a detailed itinerary. Sometimes, the best experiences happen when you slow down, explore fewer places, and truly absorb where you are.
From the mystical ruins of Shettihalli Rosary Church to the commanding views at Manjarabad Fort, our Sakleshpur drive turned into a perfect blend of history, nature, and calm.
If you’re craving a peaceful escape from city life, Sakleshpur is calling.
Planning a Sakleshpur Trip?
If you’d like help with:
- A 2-day or 3-day Sakleshpur itinerary
- Family-friendly homestay suggestions
- Offbeat spots around Hassan & Western Ghats
Just let me know 👣
For more offbeat travel stories and family-friendly itineraries, visit WalkingFeets.com or follow us on Instagram @walkingfeetsblog!
Comments
Awesome, digital detox was amazing and best part it was not difficult.