Shettihalli Rosary Church - The Submerged Gothic Ruin near Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur, KarnatakaHERITAGE SITE

A 19th-century Gothic church ruin near Sakleshpur that becomes partially submerged in water during the monsoon season, creating a unique visual spectacle.

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HERITAGE SITE

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1-2 hours

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

No Parking

Photography

No Photography

About the Destination

Overview

The Shettihalli Rosary Church is a striking ruin of a 19th-century Gothic-style church located on the banks of the Hemavati Reservoir. Built by French missionaries in the 1860s, it now stands roofless and desolate, creating a unique and atmospheric scene. The church's main attraction is its interaction with the reservoir's water levels. During the peak monsoon season, typically from July to October, the dam fills up and the church becomes partially submerged, earning it the nickname 'The Drowning Church' or 'The Floating Church'. Visitors can see the structure rising dramatically from the water, a sight that draws many photographers and travelers.

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Location & Address

Shettihalli Rosary Church, near Hemavati Reservoir Backwaters, Shettihalli, Shettihalli, Sakleshpur, Karnataka, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit depends on the experience you seek. To see the church partially submerged in water (the 'Drowning Church' view), visit during the monsoon and post-monsoon months from July to October. For exploring the ruins on foot and walking inside the structure, visit during the drier months from December to May when the water level is low. The weather is most pleasant from November to February. Avoid the peak summer months of April and May, as it can be very hot.
Peak Crowd: Weekends and public holidays from August to January, when weather is pleasant and water levels are optimal for viewing.
Moderate Crowd: Weekdays from August to January, and weekends during February and March.
Low Crowd: Summer months from April to June due to the heat, and on weekdays during the heavy monsoon period.

How to Reach

Air

The nearest airports are Mangalore International Airport (IXE), about 150 km away (4-5 hours), and Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), about 225 km away (4-5 hours).

Train

Hassan Junction (HAS) is the nearest major railway station, approximately 40 km away. It is well-connected to Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Mangaluru. You can hire a taxi from the station.

Road

The church is accessible by road from Hassan (40 km) and Sakleshpur (55 km). It is a short detour off the Bengaluru-Mangaluru Highway (NH-75). The last stretch of the road can be narrow and unpaved.

Local Transport

Hiring a private taxi or an auto-rickshaw for a round trip from Hassan or Sakleshpur is the most convenient option. Public transport is not reliable for reaching the exact spot.

Food & Dining

Nearby restaurants near Shettihalli Rosary Church

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