Uttara Kannada District was initially under Madras Presidency and subsequently came under Bombay Presidency. After Independence and till 1956 the District was in Maharashtra State and after States reorganization, merged into Karnataka. The cultural pattern of the people has thus been influenced both by Maharashtra and the Northern Karnataka. The languages spoken in this District are Kannada & Konkani. Goa being the border State, Portugal culture has also influenced the District. Uttara Kannada District has a coastal line of 144 kms. extending from Majali on the north to Gorte in Bhatkal Taluka on south and is endowed with natural resources. The District has 14 minor ports. The national Highway No.17 and the Konkan Railway passes along the coastal areas in this district, facilitating good communication and transport. Karwar, the district headquarters of Uttara Kannada district, as told by Sri. Rabindranath Tagore is the Kashmir of south India while he looked at the western Ghats (Sahyadri Range) and Karwar beach along the Arabian sea on its side which greatly inspired him for writing his poems.

Most of the attractions for which tourist visit Karwar are situated few kilometers away from Karwar. One will find important pilgrimage destinations as well as naturally beautiful places around the town. The best feature of the town are the magnificent falls that beckon locales as well as tourist from all parts of Karnataka.

This is the probably the most beautiful attraction around Karwar. Situated some 80 Km from Karwar, Magod Falls is formed by cascading River Bedthi. The falls are surrounded by dense and serene jungles that add to the beauty of the falls. There are many more good places to see around Magod falls like Jenukallugudda which is famous as honey rock hillock. It is a great place to witness scintillating sunrises and sunsets. The area has recently become a favored spot for vacationing.

For Lord Shiva Devotees, Gokarna is a pilgrimage as important as Kashi and Rameshwar. Main attraction of Gokarna is Mahabaleshwara Temple. It is believed that the idol of the deity in the temple is more than 1500 years old. There is a Bhadrakali Temple and a Venkataramana Temple that attract equal number of pilgrims. When in Gokarana, enjoy some moment on pristine beaches. The place is famous for its dense green landscape as well.

Ulavi is an important pilgrim destination around Karwar. It is at a distance of around 75 Km from Karwar. It is famous for the samadhi of Veera Shiva Saint Channabasavanna. It is said that it was here he took refuge from the army of Kalachurias. Hundreds of devotees visit this place to pay their homage. There is regular transportation from Karwar to Ulavi.

Situated at a distance of 140 Km from Karwar are picturesque Shivganga Falls. The falls are formed by River Souda when it falls from a height of 74 meters. Shivganga Falls are a great option for day excursions and have become a popular tourist destination among the locales and travelers as well.

Local Transportation

Auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are the major transportation in Karwar. Buses are also there in good number.