Choosing by season
Waterfalls and the ghat drives belong to the monsoon and the weeks just after it. Forts, temples and market walks are better between November and February, when afternoons stay pleasant. In the hot months, keep sightseeing to before 10 am and after 5 pm.
Getting to the out-of-city spots
State buses reach Gokak, Kittur and Saundatti but drop you on the highway or in town, leaving a local auto ride to the actual site. A hired car or self-drive rental costs more and saves a couple of hours per trip.