Things To Do
in Horti

Vibrant everyday life, colourful produce stalls, local dress and traditional homes provide authentic documentary-style opportunities for street and portrait photography.

Nearby temples and shrines feature locally distinctive stonework and sculptural detail — ideal for close-up and wide-angle shots that capture history and craftsmanship.

Low hills, paddy fields and winding dirt roads glow in warm light during early morning and late afternoon, making for dramatic landscape photos.

Small lakes and irrigation tanks attract waterbirds and provide reflective water shots; bring a telephoto lens for wildlife and bird photography.

Fermented rice-and-lentil pancakes and steamed cakes served with sambar and chutneys; widely available at local breakfast stalls and small eateries.

Must-Try!

Sorghum flatbread (jolada rotti) served with spicy brinjal curry (ennegayi) or a thin rasam-like saaru — a regional staple in northern Karnataka. Look for it at local family restaurants and village dhabas.

A generous platter featuring multiple vegetable preparations, chutneys, and rice/rotti — a good way to sample several local flavors in one meal; available at mid-sized eateries in town or nearby towns.

Milk-based sweet specialties from the broader Karnataka region; buy at sweets shops in larger nearby towns or from traveling sweet vendors.

A small daily market where villagers sell fruits, vegetables, fresh greens and snacks; try freshly fried pakoras, roasted corn, and local seasonal produce.

If you travel to the nearest larger town, markets offer a wider range of street food including chaat, samosas, and sweets — ideal for sampling regional snacks and buying spices or jaggery-based treats.

Dress modestly—especially at temples and in conservative village settings. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.

Remove shoes and hats before entering shrines, and follow any posted rules. Photography may be restricted inside sanctums—ask first.

A simple 'Namaskara' (or joining palms and a slight bow) is appreciated; use polite language and accept hospitality gracefully. Avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.

If offered food or drink by locals, accepting at least a small amount is courteous. Use your right hand for giving and receiving when possible.

Tipping is modest: 5–10% in restaurants if service is not already included; small amounts (₹10–50) for porters, drivers and guides are appreciated. For tea stalls and small dhabas tipping is not expected but rounding up is polite.

Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used in Horti; carry small notes and change. Mobile payments (UPI and QR code apps) are common in many shops and even some village vendors, but card acceptance and ATMs can be limited—withdraw cash in the nearest larger town if needed.

Vegetarian food is easy to find and often the norm in many eateries; clarify if you avoid onion and garlic for religious reasons, and note that many places will accommodate simple preferences.

Vegan options are more limited but possible—order rice, plain lentils (without ghee), roasted vegetables and chutneys. Ask about the use of ghee or dairy in gravies.

Traditional south Indian dishes like dosa, idli and rice-based preparations are naturally gluten-free, but check for cross-contamination at busy stalls and for wheat-based rotis at some restaurants.

Carry a card in Kannada explaining your allergy to show vendors; small village kitchens may have limited English and less awareness of cross-contact risks.