Blue Flag Certification
Indeed a very proud moment for Karnataka as Two Beaches in the State have bagged the coveted eco label “ Blue Flag ” title from the International agency Foundation for Environment Education, Denmark. The two blue flag certification beaches, Kasarkod Beach near Honnavar in Uttara Kannada and Padubidri Beach near Udupi, are among the eight in the country to have received the title.
The prestigious ” Blue Flag ” label is awarded on the basis of 33 stringent criteria relating to amenities available, cleanliness, safety, services, accessibility and environment. A National Jury comprising top environmentalists and scientists had recommended the eight beaches in India for the certification. With the new tag, the two beaches have now obtained a spot in the global map of tourist attractions.
Kasarkod and Padubidri beaches possess solid waste management plants, grey water treatments plants, seating arrangements, clean drinking water, washroom, changing room, bathing facility, disabled friendly and general toilets, parking facilities, solar power plants and solar lighting.
There is also a 750 Mts long safe swimming zone at the Kasarkod Beach, which is 2.5 Kms long. It also boasts of a gymnasium, childrens play area, facility for sunbathing and a watch tower. Padubidri Beach on the other hand has a 200 Mts long safe swimming pool.
Prime Minister Narendar Modi, tweeted that it’s a “wonderful feat”. He mentioned in his tweet how this reputed title shows the importance India attaches to protecting beaches, furthering sustainable development.
HOW TO REACH KASARKOD BEACH:
Reaching By Air:
Mangalore International Airport (IXE) is the nearest Major International Airport.
Driving from Major Cities/Towns:
From Mangalore to Eco Beach - Kasaragod, the distance is 53 Kms and it takes about 1 Hour 30 Mins on Road.
From Bengaluru to Eco Beach - Kasaragod, the distance is 376 Kms and it takes about 8 Hours on Road.
From Goa to Eco Beach - Kasaragod, the distance is 412 Kms and it takes about 9 Hours on Road.
Reaching By Bus:
Shivamogga is the nearest Bus Station with other cities. Honnavar is a local Bus Stop with limited bus frequency.
Reaching By Train:
Mangalore Railway Station ( MAQ ) is the nearest major Railway Station.
HOW TO REACH PADUBIDRI BEACH:
Reaching By Air:
Mangalore International Airport (IXE) is the nearest Major International Airport.
Driving from Major Cities/Towns:
From Mangalore to Eco Beach - Padubidri, the distance is 32 Kms and it takes about 45 Mins on Road.
From Udupi to Eco Beach - Kasaragod, the distance is 26 Kms and it takes about 30 Mins on Road.
From Karkala to Eco Beach - Kasaragod, the distance is 31 Kms and it takes about 45 Mins on Road.
Reaching By Bus:
Padubidri is the nearest Bus Station with other cities.
Reaching By Train:
Nandikoor ( NAND ) is the nearest major Railway Station.