Ankola, Karnataka: A Coastal Gem
Introduction
Ankola, a picturesque town nestled along the Laccadive Sea coast in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and serene beaches. Derived from the forest shrub “Ankola,” revered by the Halakki Vokkaligas, this town boasts mango groves, temples, and a rich history. Let’s explore Ankola in detail.
Table of Contents
- Geography
- Demographics
- Climate and Weather
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach Ankola
- Sightseeing Places
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Geography
Ankola is situated at 14°39’38"N latitude and 74°18’17"E longitude, with an average elevation of 17 meters (56 feet). The Gangavali River (also known as Bedti) flows near the town. Belekeri, a natural port, facilitates iron ore shipments to China and Europe.
Demographics
- Ankola Town: Population of 22,249 (as per the 2011 census)
- Male: 11,034
- Female: 11,215
- Literacy rate: 90.63%
- Ankola Taluka: Total population of 101,549 across 309 villages and 20 panchayats.
Climate and Weather
- Summer (March to May): Temperatures range from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F).
- Winter (December to February): Temperatures vary between 20°C and 33°C (68°F and 91°F).
Month | Average Temperature (°C) |
---|---|
January | 20 - 33 |
February | 21 - 34 |
March | 23 - 35 |
April | 25 - 36 |
May | 26 - 34 |
June | 26 - 32 |
July | 25 - 31 |
August | 25 - 31 |
September | 24 - 31 |
October | 24 - 32 |
November | 22 - 33 |
December | 21 - 33 |
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Ankola is during the winter months (December to February) when the weather is pleasant.
How to Reach Ankola
- By Road: Ankola is well-connected by road. National Highway 66 passes through the town.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Karwar (33 km away).
- By Air: The closest airports are Goa International Airport (approx. 150 km) and Hubli Airport (approx. 150 km).
Sightseeing Places
- Shri Aryadurga Temple: A serene temple with historical significance.
- Shri Lakshminarayan Mahamaya Temple: Explore the tranquil atmosphere.
- Beaches: Enjoy natural beaches along the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the significance of the name “Ankola”?
- The name is derived from a forest shrub worshipped by the Halakki Vokkaligas.
- Which river flows near Ankola?
- The Gangavali River (also known as Bedti).
- What is the literacy rate in Ankola?
- Ankola boasts a literacy rate of 90.63%.
- When is the best time to visit Ankola?
- Winter months (December to February).
- How can I reach Ankola?
- By road, rail (via Karwar), or air (via Goa or Hubli).
Ankola invites you to explore its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in this coastal gem! 🌴🌊🌞