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In Karnataka Lies A Secret Island Where Dolphin Spotting, Stargazing And Water Sports Are A Daily Affair

Known for its unspoiled beauty, this hidden gem is also home to the sacred Narasimha Temple that draws pilgrims each year. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and travellers seeking peace.

by Mallika Khurana
In Karnataka Lies A Secret Island Where Dolphin Spotting, Stargazing And Water Sports Are A Daily Affair

If you’ve ever wished to run away to a quiet island where every moment is filled with either peace or adventure, then Kurumgad Island is exactly that dream come true. Tucked away just 4 km off the coast of Karwar in Karnataka, this little island is slowly becoming one of the most exciting destinations for travellers who want something more than the usual crowded beaches.

A Hidden Treasure In The Arabian Sea

Karwar
Image Courtesy: sarangib/CanvaPro

Kurumgad’s unusual tortoise-like shape is what really sets it apart. The island looks like a gigantic turtle lounging in the Arabian Sea from a distance. But once you step onto it, you realise it’s much more than just a scenic spot.

Kurumgad Island has something for every kind of traveller. If you love nature and calmness, you can simply walk around the island at your own pace, listening to the waves, feeling the breeze, and enjoying the 360-degree views of the sea. Activities like fishing, trekking, scuba diving, snorkelling, and even dolphin-spotting boat rides provide plenty of excitement. The Narasimha Temple on the hilltop is also a must-see for spiritual travellers.

The island is also dotted with palm trees, small trails, and even a freshwater pond, something you don’t expect to find right in the middle of the ocean. It’s the kind of place where you can start your morning with a trek, spend your afternoon spotting dolphins, and end your day stargazing by a bonfire on the beach.

Also Read: This National Park In India Is The Only Place In The World To Spot Rare Melanistic Tigers

Things To Do On Kurumgad Island

  • Trek To The Old Fort And Narasimha Temple: There is an old fort that is thought to have been connected to the Maratha kings, and the trek to the Narasimha Temple offers you spiritual serenity as well as adventure.
  • Water Sports And Beach Fun: These clear waters are perfect for swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, and simply splashing around.
  • Boat Rides And Dolphin Spotting: If you’re lucky, you might be able to see dolphins swimming next to your boat.
  • Photography And Nature Walks: This location is a photographer’s and nature lover’s paradise, with its coral reefs, rock formations, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
  • Bonfires And Stargazing: With little light pollution, the night sky here is stunning. Add a campfire, and you have the perfect island evening.

Since Kurumgad is a coastal island, timing your trip makes a huge difference. It is dangerous to travel by boat during monsoon tides, and the summer months are too hot to enjoy. The best months to visit are September through March due to the pleasant weather, serene sea, and stunning views.

Reaching Kurumgad is part of the fun. The island can only be accessed by boat or ferry from Devbagh Beach in Karwar, which takes about 30 minutes. Once you reach Karwar, hop onto a ferry and let the sea carry you to this hidden treasure. Here, you can experience everything: history, spirituality, adventure, and calmness, all packed into one small island.

This little tortoise-shaped island has a way of stealing your heart.

Cover Image Courtesy: Visit Udupi/X

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First Published: August 31, 2025 6:00 PM