Honnemaradu Backwaters

Honnemaradu Backwaters is a reservoir expanse formed by the backwaters of the Sharavathi River behind the Linganamakki Dam in Sagara Taluk, Shivamogga District, Karnataka. Located about 12 km from Sagara and around 35 km from Jog Falls, it is known for calm waters dotted with small islands and forested surroundings. Developed as an eco-tourism and adventure centre, it offers kayaking, canoeing, coracle rides and camping in a tranquil natural setting.

Visitors can expect a wide, calm reservoir with scattered small islands, surrounded by forested hills and coconut groves. The site has an open waterfront with boating jetties, camping areas and adventure activity centres. Visitors can explore the shoreline, take kayaks, canoes or coracles on the water, enjoy birdwatching and photography, and stay overnight in tents. The environment is quiet and natural, with facilities focused on water-based recreation and nature observation.

The backwaters were formed after the construction of the Linganamakki Dam across the Sharavathi River in 1964. The dam created a large reservoir that submerged the river valley, resulting in the present expanse of water with numerous small islands that now forms Honnemaradu.