Nature-loving: Mayura Gerusoppa
The season to see Jog Falls, India’s highest waterfalls (253m), on the Sharavati river, is right now. Although this 20-room KSTDC hotel isn’t luxurious, it is the best place to stay, with panoramic views of the four falls: Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket. Rooms are spacious and charmingly decrepit; there’s no gourmet food but the helpful staff can always get you something edible. Tariff doubles Rs 499–1,200 Contact 0818-6244732, karnatakaholidays.net
Spiritual: Hotel Kediyoor
For pilgrims to Udupi, this reliable 96-room hotel is right next to the ‘service’ bus stand and within walking distance of the Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt. Despite the central location, it is fairly quiet, with a pure-veg restaurant. If one is not here for karmic reasons, the hotel provides a business centre and also has a second restaurant that does non-veg and alcohol. Malpe Beach is a rickshaw ride away (6km). Tariff Rs 750 onwards, plus taxes Contact 0820-2522381/2, kediyoorhotels.com
Healthful: Sai Vishram
The concept — 100% vegetarian, 100% alcohol-free, 100% non-smoking, 100% quiet — may not appeal to all, but you’d be surprised how rejuvenating it can be. This remote luxury hotel near Bhatkal, with its neat hillside, has sea-view villas, beachfront tents and one of the most private beaches in the country. Activities range from boat rides to meditation classes. Tariff from Rs 2,000 per person, all meals included Contact 080-25595180, saivishram.com
Classic: Summer Sands
One of the oldest resorts on the Karnataka coast, this is an escape from the bustle of Mangalore (10km). The sea off Ullal Beach is not optimal for a swim but there’s a pool in the 15-acre palm grove, plus spacious cottages. The Memories of Joanna restaurant serves seafood (at times fresh lobster) and Mangalorean delicacies such as kori rotti. Tariff Rs 5,554 onwards, including breakfast, dinner and taxes Contact 0824-2467690, summersands.in
Luxury: Swaswara
The location of this CGH Earth initiative near Om Beach, Gokarna is the best one could wish for, its 24 Konkan villas tucked away from the lively pilgrimage town. Healthy coastal vegetarian food in the restaurant Cocum and a variety of wellness programmes are key attractions. Guests are expected to check in for at least a week to complete a treatment programme (negotiable in the off-season). Tariff Rs 10,864 onwards (all inclusive) Contact 08386-257132, swaswara.com
Hideaway: Turtle Bay
One of the nicer eco-hotels in coastal India, this budget resort is notable for its tucked-away location, friendly staff and unpretentious but fresh seafood. This little-known gem sits in a quiet jungle between ocean and picturesque backwaters of the Sowparnika river, surrounded by vanilla plantations and villages with friendly teashops. The rustic cabanas are great value. Tariff Rs 1,500 onwards, plus taxes Contact 08254-265422, turtlebayeco.com