Mangaluru: The next time visitors head to Sasihithlu or Idya beaches, they may find more than waves, surfboards and sunsets. Horses are making their way into the city’s coastal tourism, with Mangaluru Horse Riding Academy launching what it describes as Karnataka’s first beach horse safari.Founded by Avinand Achanahally, the academy has introduced three packages designed to offer visitors a different way of experiencing the coast, on horseback. Though the concept is relatively new in Karnataka, similar experiences are available in Gujarat, Mumbai and Kerala, while destinations like Dubai, Bali and Morocco have successfully developed horse safaris as major tourism attractions. “The response from tourists, particularly those outside the district, has been encouraging,” Avinand said.The beach riding package takes visitors along the scenic Sasihithlu or Idya coastline. The experience includes guided horseback rides, beach and shoreline trails, sunrise and sunset rides, and opportunities for photography. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the coastal countryside safari winds through coconut groves, mangroves, backwaters and other coastal landscapes.The package also includes a visit to a fisherman’s house, where visitors can learn about the community’s traditional lifestyle. Activities like beedi rolling and demonstrations of traditional ganas, or oil mills, are also part of the experience.The heritage horse safari, takes visitors to old temples and basadis, combining horseback riding with an introduction to the region’s history and heritage. While the beach ride lasts about an hour, the countryside and heritage safaris can extend up to 90 minutes. Prior horse-riding experience is not required. Visitors are given 15 to 30 minutes of basic training, including instructions on how to lead the horse and the safety precautions to be followed, said Avinand.Handlers accompany riders throughout the safari, with one lead horse moving ahead and another handler following the rider. Avinand said all the horses have been trained and necessary safety measures are in place.“Water sports like surfing and kayaking have picked up in a big way in Mangaluru. We want horseriding also to emerge as a major tourist attraction. The academy currently has 20 horses, including 14 from Mangaluru and six in Sakleshpur. We also conduct safaris in Sakaleshpur through coffee plantations and the region’s natural landscapes,“ he said.He is also exploring tie-ups with surfing schools to create integrated coastal experiences. The academy has already partnered with Surf’s Up in Mulki, allowing visitors to combine surfing lessons with horse riding.Avinand said discussions had also been held with the DC. The academy hopes to showcase the initiative to chief minister DK Shivakumar during his visit to Mangaluru for the cabinet meeting on Sept 18. “The long-term ambition is to develop horse safaris into a signature attraction for Mangaluru’s coastline, drawing inspiration from established equestrian tourism destinations like Dubai, Indonesia and Abu Dhabi.
