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Karnataka is a state of diverse landscapes and stunning natural beauty. With the Western Ghats running through the state, Karnataka is home to several scenic hill stations that offer respite from the heat of the plains. From Coorg’s coffee plantations to Nandi Hills’ lush greenery, these hill stations offer a range of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers.

Here are the top 10 hill stations in Karnataka:

Coorg (Kodagu):
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is one of the most popular hill stations in Karnataka. The region is known for its coffee plantations, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant weather. The town is located about 265 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road, rail or air. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 160 km away, and the nearest railway station is Mysore, which is 120 km away. Some of the popular activities in Coorg include trekking, wildlife safaris, coffee plantation tours, and sightseeing.

Chikmagalur:
Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and beautiful waterfalls. The town is located about 250 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 170 km away. Some of the popular activities in Chikmagalur include trekking, camping, wildlife safaris, and visiting the many beautiful waterfalls in the region.

Nandi Hills:
Nandi Hills is a popular hill station located just 60 km from Bangalore. The town is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, beautiful landscapes, and historical significance. The nearest airport is Bangalore, which is 40 km away, and the nearest railway station is Bangalore. Some of the popular activities in Nandi Hills include trekking, cycling, paragliding, and visiting the many temples and forts in the region.

Kemmanagundi:
Kemmanagundi is a beautiful hill station located in the Baba Budan Giri range of the Western Ghats. It is known for its stunning waterfalls, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant weather. The town is located about 250 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 175 km away. Some of the popular activities in Kemmanagundi include trekking, camping, visiting the many waterfalls in the region, and enjoying the beautiful views from the peak.

Madikeri:
Madikeri is a popular hill station located in the Coorg district of Karnataka. It is known for its coffee plantations, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant weather. The town is located about 120 km from Mysore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 140 km away. Some of the popular activities in Madikeri include trekking, camping, coffee plantation tours, and visiting the many beautiful temples and forts in the region.

Sakleshpur:
Sakleshpur is a beautiful hill station located in the Hassan district of Karnataka. It is known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and lush greenery. The town is located about 220 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 150 km away. Some of the popular activities in Sakleshpur include trekking, camping, visiting the many waterfalls in the region, and enjoying the beautiful views from the peak.

Agumbe:
Agumbe is a popular hill station located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful sunsets, and pleasant weather. The town is located about 350 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 100 km away. Agumbe is also known as the “Cherrapunji of South India” due to the high amount of rainfall it receives. Some of the popular activities in Agumbe include trekking, camping, bird watching, and visiting the many waterfalls in the region.

Kudremukh:
Kudremukh is a beautiful hill station located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. It is known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and lush greenery. The town is located about 300 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 130 km away. Some of the popular activities in Kudremukh include trekking, camping, wildlife safaris, and visiting the many beautiful waterfalls in the region.

Mullayanagiri:
Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka, located in the Chikmagalur district. It is known for its stunning views, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant weather. The town is located about 260 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 170 km away. Some of the popular activities in Mullayanagiri include trekking, camping, and enjoying the beautiful views from the peak.

BR Hills (Biligiriranga Hills):
BR Hills, also known as Biligiriranga Hills, is a beautiful hill station located on the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It is known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and pleasant weather. The town is located about 170 km from Bangalore and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Bangalore, which is 190 km away. Some of the popular activities in BR Hills include trekking, camping, wildlife safaris, and visiting the many beautiful waterfalls in the region.

In conclusion, Karnataka is home to several stunning hill stations that offer a range of experiences for travelers. Whether you are looking for adventure, nature, or just a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, these hill stations are the perfect getaway. With their stunning landscapes, pleasant weather, and range of activities, these hill stations are a must-visit for anyone visiting Karnataka.

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Talakadu is a small town in Karnataka, India, famous for its rich history and heritage. The town is situated on the banks of the river Kaveri and is surrounded by sand dunes, making it a unique and beautiful place to visit. Talakadu is also known as the “City of Temples,” as it is home to several ancient temples that date back to the 11th century.

History of Talakadu

Talakadu has a fascinating and mysterious history that attracts tourists from all over the world. According to legends, Talakadu was once a prosperous city ruled by the powerful Ganga dynasty. However, a curse was placed on the city by a vengeful queen, and the entire city was buried under sand dunes, leaving only the temples behind.

Best Places to Visit in and around Talakadu

1. Vaidyeshwara Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most popular temples in Talakadu. The temple’s architecture is breathtaking, and it is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city.
2. Maruleshwara Temple: This temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful carvings and sculptures. The temple is located on the banks of the river Kaveri, making it a peaceful and serene place to visit.
3. Gaganachukki and Bharachukki Falls: These two waterfalls are located a few kilometers from Talakadu and are a must-visit for nature lovers. The falls are surrounded by lush green forests and offer a breathtaking view.

Distance from Major Cities

• Talakadu is located around 135 kilometers from Bangalore
• The distance between Talakadu and Mysore is around 50 kilometers

Nearest Hotels

• KSTDC Hotel Mayura Sangama Talakadu: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
• Shrikrishna River View: This hotel is located on the banks of the river Kaveri and offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding landscape.

Entry Fee and Timings

• The entry fee for most of the temples in Talakadu is free.
• The temples are open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Activities

• Explore the ancient temples and learn about the rich history and culture of the city.
• Take a dip in the river Kaveri and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
• Visit the nearby waterfalls and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.

In conclusion, Talakadu is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. It is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in exploring the rich heritage of India. So pack your bags and get ready to unravel the mysteries of this ancient city!

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Melukote is a small town located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, India. Known for its rich cultural heritage and religious significance, Melukote is a popular destination for both devotees and tourists. The town is home to several ancient temples and historical sites that attract visitors from all over the world.

History

Melukote has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century when it was ruled by the Hoysala dynasty. The town was a center of learning and culture during the reign of the Hoysalas and was known for its artistic and architectural excellence. It was later conquered by the Vijayanagara Empire and the Mysore Kingdom before finally becoming a part of independent India.

Must-Visit Places in Melukote

1. Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the most important religious sites in Melukote. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and architecture and is a must-visit for devotees and architecture enthusiasts. The temple is open from 7 am to 8 pm every day.
2. Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple: Another important temple in Melukote, the Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, a fierce form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located on top of a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The temple is open from 7 am to 8 pm every day.
3. Kalyani: Kalyani is a large stepwell located near the Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple. The stepwell is an architectural marvel and is known for its intricate carvings and design. It is a popular spot for photography and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
4. Melukote Wildlife Sanctuary: The Melukote Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the outskirts of the town and is home to several species of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Distance from Major Cities:

Melukote is well-connected to the major cities of Karnataka. It is around 140 km from Bangalore, 48 km from Mysore, and 16 km from Mandya. The town can be easily reached by road or rail. The nearest railway station is Mandya, which is around 16 km away.

Timings and Entry Fees:

The temples in Melukote are open to visitors from 6:00 am to 8:30 pm. The entry fee to the temples is free of cost. However, visitors are expected to dress modestly and follow the temple norms.

Entry Ticket:

There is no entry fee for visiting the Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple and the Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple. However, there is a nominal fee for parking and for taking cameras inside the temples.

In Conclusion:

Melukote is a serene and peaceful destination that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka. With its ancient temples, beautiful landscapes, and serene surroundings, Melukote is an ideal destination for those seeking a spiritual and cultural experience. A visit to Melukote is a must for anyone interested in exploring the history and traditions of Karnataka.

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Shivamogga (Shimoga), a city located in the state of Karnataka in southern India, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. It is nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats and is surrounded by dense forests, picturesque waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to Shimoga, here are some of the best tourist places to visit.

1. Jog Falls: Jog Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shimoga. It is located at a distance of around 100 kilometers from the city center and takes around 2-3 hours to reach by car. Jog Falls is the second-highest waterfall in India, and it is a sight to behold during the monsoon season. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 9 am to 5 pm.
2. Agumbe: Agumbe is a small village located around 55 kilometers from Shimoga. It is famous for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. Agumbe is also known as the “Cherrapunji of the South” due to its high rainfall. It is a popular destination for trekking, and you can also visit the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. The entry fee is free, and the best time to visit is during the monsoon season.
3. Gajanur Dam: Gajanur Dam is a beautiful picnic spot located around 15 kilometers from Shimoga. The dam is built across the river Tunga, and it is surrounded by lush greenery. You can enjoy boating and fishing at the dam, and there are also facilities for trekking and camping. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 9 am to 5 pm.
4. Koodli: Koodli is a historical town located around 20 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a confluence of the rivers Tunga and Bhadra and is home to many ancient temples and monuments. You can visit the Koodli Matha Temple, the Shankaracharya Temple, and the Rameshwara Temple, among others. The entry fee is free, and the timings are from 6 am to 7 pm.
5. Kodachadri: Kodachadri is a mountain peak located around 115 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a popular trekking destination and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. You can also visit the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The entry fee is nominal, and the best time to visit is from October to March.
6. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary: Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is located around 30 kilometers from Shimoga. It is home to many species of migratory birds, including the river tern, the little cormorant, and the egret. The sanctuary is situated on an island in the middle of the river Tunga, and you can reach it by boat. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 6 am to 6 pm.
7. Sakrebailu Elephant Camp: Sakrebailu Elephant Camp is located around 15 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a unique destination where you can interact with elephants and watch them being bathed and fed. The camp is also home to many other animals, including deer, peacocks, and crocodiles. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 8 am to 11 am and from 4 pm to 5 pm.
8. Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary: Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary is located around 85 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a protected area that is home to many species of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is spread across an area of around 431 square kilometers and is surrounded by the Western Ghats. You can spot animals like tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and many others. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 6 am to 6 pm.
9. Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari: Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari is located around 10 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families. You can take a safari ride and spot lions, tigers, bears, and other animals. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 10 am to 5 pm.
10. Shivappanaika Palace Museum: Shivappanaika Palace Museum is located in the heart of Shimoga. It is a historical palace that has been converted into a museum. You can explore the rich cultural heritage of the region through the exhibits displayed in the museum. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 10 am to 5 pm.
11. Sri Sigandur Chowdeshwari Temple: Sri Sigandur Chowdeshwari Temple is located around 75 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a popular pilgrimage destination and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Chowdeshwari. You can take a boat ride to reach the temple, which is situated on an island in the river Sharavathi. The entry fee is free, and the timings are from 6 am to 9 pm.
12. Kundadri Hill: Kundadri Hill is located around 65 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a beautiful hill station that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can also visit the ancient Jain temple located at the hilltop. The entry fee is free, and the best time to visit is during the monsoon season.
13. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located around 80 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a protected area that is home to many species of animals and birds. You can spot animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and many others. The sanctuary is also a popular destination for trekking and camping. The entry fee is nominal, and the timings are from 6 am to 6 pm.
14. Hidlumane Falls: Hidlumane Falls is located around 40 kilometers from Shimoga. It is a picturesque waterfall that is surrounded by dense forests. You can take a dip in the cool waters of the falls and enjoy the scenic beauty. The entry fee is free,
15. Sakrebailu Elephant Camp: Sakrebailu Elephant Camp is a beautiful elephant camp located around 15 kilometers from Shimoga. It is home to several elephants that have been trained for forestry activities. The camp offers an opportunity to interact with elephants, and it also offers a beautiful view of the river Tunga.

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This falls is among the majority dramatic charming waterfalls in Karnataka, India. This falls was once first discovered by Lushington in the year 1845 by the district collector of that place.  The natural vegetation of this place is the highlight. Placed at a height of 116 meters the source for this cascade is river Aghanashini.

Location: The fall is exactly in Uttara Kannada in Karnataka. It is located on the way to Kutta and is 5km away from Heggarne, 35Km away from Siddapura, 39Kms from Bhagamandala.

Major Attractions:

• This place also has something religious about it. Once when lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana were traveling through this path lord Ram felt.
• In the junction of Cauvery, Kanika and Sujyoti is where Bhagamandala is located at a distance of 39 Kms from the place. This place has a temple which is famous for Stupas of various Gods. This place also has a strong belief that a dip in this falls has the power to wither away all his sins. This is specially done during the period of Maha Shivarathri.
• You can also go for trekking in Heggarne village in the woods located at a distance of 5Km. The natural surroundings including flora and fauna, cool breeze along the river side, lofty mountain peaks and deep valleys just add charm to the whole environment.
• One can also go on for trekking which is around 5 km from this place. This place is very safe for trekking.
• As told earlier there is also a temple dedicated to Lord Rama. To trip this lay you need to depart your route later than Srimangala on the Kutta road.

Nearby Places to Visit if time permits:

• Nagarahole falls
• Abbey Falls
• Hebbe Falls
• Honnemaradu
• Jog Falls
• Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary
• Dandeli Wildlife sanctuary
• Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
• Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kokkrebellur Forest.

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Dharmasthala is a temple town on the banks of the river Nethravathi in Belthangady Taluk, Karnataka. It represents religious tolerance wherein caste, creed and faith of pilgrims are no bars. For here, the Jain Theerthankara is worshipped on the same consecrated grounds as the native Daivas and Lord Manjunatha (Lord Shiva).

Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala, the land of righteousness and piety, is one of south India’s most renowned religious landmarks with a history as old as 800 years. Manjunatheshwara, the chief deity of the spiritual abode, has taken the form of a shivalinga and made immaculate, the temple town of Dharmasthala since and forever. Lord Manjunatheshwara, is being worshipped in a very unusual yet exceptionally inordinate manner in Shree kshetra dharmasthala, as this Shaiva temple is beseeched by Vaishnava priests and administered by Jain descendants.

“Dharmasthala”, the abode of dharma, is the quintessence of humanity and faith. As the name suggests, the word dharma in its truest sense means righteousness, it is the embodiment of the world’s most divine emotions in spite of one’s cast, creed or religion.

The town is known for its centuries old Dharmasthala Temple devoted to the Hindu god Manjunatha. There are other temples and shrines that are dedicated to Ammanavaru, Chandranath and the Dharma Daivas (guardian spirits of Dharma) – Kalarahu, Kalarkayi, Kumaraswamy and Kanyakumari.

Social Service by the Temple Administration

• Rural Development
• Mass Marriages
• Anna dana (ಅನ್ನದಾನ)
• Vidya dana (ವಿದ್ಯಾ ದಾನ)

Places to Visit in Dharmasthala

• Shrine of Lord Manjunatha Swamy
• Shrine of Shri Ammanavaru
• Shrine of Shri Annappa Swamy
• Shrine of Shri Ganapathi
• Shri Chandranatha Swamy Basadi
• Shri Manjunatheshwara Cultural Research Foundation
• Nelyadi Beedu
• Lord Shri Bahubali statue
• Annapoorna Dining Hall
• Lalitodyan
• Manjusha Museum
• Manjusha Car Museum

How to Reach?

By Road: Dharmasthala is well connected by road. State-owned KSRTC & also private companies provide bus service from several centers of Karnataka.

By Train: Mangalore Railway Station is the nearest railway junction to Dharmasthala, situated at a distance of about 74 km.

By Road: Mangalore Airport serves as the nearest domestic and international airport for tourists heading to Dharmasthala. Earlier known as the Bajpe Airport, it is situated at a distance of about 65 km from Dharmasthala.

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Beautiful Waterfall in Sringeri, Karnataka

Sirimane Falls is located near Sringeri, Karnataka. Sirimane waterfalls are at a distance of 15 km from Sringeri Sharamba temple in Chikmagalur district.

With a height of about 40 feet, this waterfall is located in serene surroundings with dense forest all around. There is a motorable road available to reach the falls and vehicles can be hired from Kigga. A little walk is required from the parking place to reach the falls through well-laid steps.

It is one of the many waterfalls located on the Western Ghats. It is a splendid fall with a beautiful view. The water feeds the coffee estates and paddy fields located downstream. It can be easily reached and visited in a single day, hence, it is ideal to club the visit with other locations like the Sringeri Sharada Temple, Agumbe etc.

Timings to visit Sirimane Falls: Sirimane Falls is open from 9 AM till 6 PM.

Best Time to Visit: From September to February right after the monsoon ends.

Places to visit near Sirimane Falls: Agumbe (41 kms), Sringeri temples (17 kms), Kundadri (40 kms), Kavishaila (51 kms) and Horanadu (60 kms) are other places of interest to visit along with Sirimane waterfalls.

How to reach SIrimane Falls: To reach Sirimane Falls one should arrive at Sringeri town which is about 300 kms away from Bengaluru City.

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Shimoga is city in Karnataka, India. It was initially called as “Shivamogga” which literally means ‘Nose of Lord Shiva’. Embellished with vast range of pastures, hummocks concealed with impenetrable forestry with some elite vegetation and wildlife. Shimoga also houses numerous religious shrines. With five chief tributaries sinuous over the district, the Shimoga province is very bountiful and is branded as the “Rice bowl of Karnataka”. The Sahyadri terrain keeps the tributaries well provided with sufficient rainwater almost recurrently.

Distance : 300 km form Bangalore, 207.5 km from Bangalore via NH 66 and NH169

History of Shimoga

The past dates back to 3^rd century when Shimoga was under the control of Mauryan Empire. During the 4^th century the west section was ruled by Kadambas and the east section was ruled by the Gangas. In 6^th century both the sections were combined and ruled by Chalukyas of badami. Then the Shimoga city was exchanged in the hands of Rastrakutas, Hoysalas, Kalachuris, Vijayanagar Empire and Keladi Nayakas. In the year1763 Haider Ali captured Bidnur the then capital of Keladi Nayakas and alongside with the other regions it was commandeered to Mysore. After the independence Shimoga assented to the dominion of India.

Tourist Attractions in Shimoga

1. Jog Falls

Positioned just around 100 km from Shimoga, is the most eminent landmarks in Shimoga. It is the chief perennial cascade in India and is sited at Sagara. It has an elevation about 253 meters. and comprises of four torrents Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer.

Jog Falls is created by the Sharavathi River, it is the second-highest plunge waterfall of India, Jog Falls is a major tourist attraction in Karnataka. It is located on the border of Shimoga and Uttara Kannada districts of Karnataka. Jog waterfalls is the highest waterfall in the state. Jog falls drops about a huge 253 mtrs (850 ft.) in a single fall.

Best Time to Visit

The months of June till September witness heavy rainfall in the region. The monsoon season is the best season to visit Jog falls, as the beauty of the place is enhanced during monsoons. The summer season begins in the month of March and continues till May.

How to Reach?

• By Road: National Highway number 206, from Bangalore 378 kms (Bangalore-Shimoga-Sagar-Jog), from Sagar 45 kms, Siddapur 21 kms, Honnavar 56 kms
• By Train: Nearest Railway Station – Thalaguppa, Shimoga district.
• Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport

Where to Stay near Jog Falls?

Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa is the best accommodation at Jogfalls.

Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa (KSTDC)
Jog Falls
Phone: +91-8186-344732

2. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary

This place is located near Gudavi Village, Banavasi Road, 16 km from Sorab, Sirsi. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is positioned amongst the thick woodlands. It is a nature reserve and abode for diverse genus of birds. It is a paradise for birdwatchers to perceive and learn the assortments of birds. It acts as an abode to the wandering birds and the delicate splendor of the natural lake is again a prominent magnetism in this bird sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit: June to November (From 6 am to 6 pm).

Distance from Gudavi Bird Sanctuary:
Soraba: 15 km
Sagar: 41 km
Shimoga: 115 km

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksZmC4HKT54

Sakrebayalu Elephant camp

Sakrebayalu Elephant camp is positioned just about 14 km from Shimoga. Bereaved baby elephants missed by their groups are provided accommodation in this campground. The elephants in the campground are taught and disciplined by proficient mahouts. It entices numerous populaces every year.

Shivappanaika Palace Museum

Shivappanaika Palace Museum built in the 16^th century by Keladi Sovereign Shivappa Nayaka. The complete structure of the castle is made out of rosewood. One can find a museum in this edifice that holds the prosperous antiquity and ethnicity of Keladi realm. Positioned on the basin of river Tunga one can sight several fascinating compilation of vintages, rock statuettes, impressions and effigies.

Sacred Heart Cathedral

Sacred Heart cathedral is a structural splendor in Shimoga and is renowned as the second biggest church in the country. The sight of the foremost vast manor of the big basilica traverses over 18000 sq. feet is remarkable. The cathedra appears quite attractive with the intense Classical realistic structural design and a dynamic giant statuette of Lord Jesus Christ. The chief manor in the church can effortlessly billet 5000 individuals.

Must See Places in and around Shimoga

• Kodachadri
• Tyavarekoppa
• Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary
• Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
• Tunga Dam

Best season to visit Shimoga

The beat season to visit Shimoga is during the months October to March. The summers are pretty hot. It gets heavy rainfall during monsoon season. In the winter the climate tends to be pleasant and is the best time for tourists to visit Shimoga.

Accessibility to Shimoga

By Air: The nearest aerodrome is at Mangalore 175 km from the town. One can hire a cab from airport or get into a local transport to reach Shimoga.

By Train: The Shimoga railhead connects it to Bengaluru and Mysore. Birur Junction connects it to the northern parts of the country. One can hire a taxi from station or get into a local transport to reach Shimoga city.

By Road: National Highway 206 connects the Shimoga city to the major towns in southern India. Public and private transportation provide numerous buses to Shimoga.

Accommodations in Shimoga

Shimoga city has some fine eminent hotels, resorts, guest houses and lodges. The hotels provide many conveniences and the costs differ from hotel to hotel. Many hotels in Shimoga undertake advanced booking and reservation for safe and relaxed stay of the tourists. Some high end hotels offers host of world class amenities to the tourists like big ventilated rooms with room heaters, LCD TV’s, broadband facilities with Wi-Fi, intercom facilities, washing facilities, swimming pool, clubhouse, gym, steam bath, spa and pub etc. List of hotels in Shimoga are as follows:

• Royal Orchid Central Hotel
• Hotel Jewel Rock
• The Gateway Hotels & Resorts
• Simha Farms
• Navarathna Hotel
• Royal Orchid Central
• Hotel Surya Comforts
• Mathura Residency Hotel
• Hotel Samrat Ashok
• Sri Durga Lodge
• Meenakshi Bhavan
• Vihangama Holiday Retreat
• Adventurer’s Campsite
• Hotel Bright
• Hotel Santhrupthi
• Sri Venkateshwara Ootada Hotel

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Mesmerizing and Unforgettable Heritage Tourist Destination

Badami previously known as Vatapi is a town in Bagalkot district Karnataka, India. Badami is very well known for its rock carvings and temple planning. Badami symbolizes the rich traditional heritage of Karnataka. The Chalukyas sovereign Pulakeshi I founded it in the year 540 A D. the caves temples characterizes the  temperament of the rulers then with religious tolerance  that predispose towards Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

History of Badami

Badami was the primordial center of the early Chalukyas who ruled most of Karnataka and the neighboring Andhra Pradesh amid the 6th and 8th century. The celebrated Badami Rock-Cut Temples were engraved largely within this period. Badami became a spectator of chief authority resistance between the Pallavas, Chalukyas and the Rashtrakutas, in the epoch between the 7th and 12th century. It was later occupied by the Vijaynagar Empire, the Marathas and Hyder Ali before the British incorporated it in the Bombay government.

Tourist Attractions in Badami

1. Bhuthanatha Temples

The two temples facing the Agastya Lake, are known as the Bhuthanatha Temples. Built of local sandstone, they are dedicated to Lord Shiva, in the form of Bhuthanatha. The sandstone used to build these temples gives them a beautiful glittering tint in the afternoon sun.

2. Cave Temples of Badami

The four cave temples of Badami have elaborate carvings, alluding to the legendary proceedings and spiritual experience of Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism.

Cave Temple 1 – It is dedicated to lord Shiva. One can find the statuette of Shiva in his various avatars such as Nataraja, Harihara and Ardhanareeswara etc. the cave has enormous hall with many bastions.

Cave Temple 2 – It is devoted to Lord Vishnu,one can find his avatars of Trivikrama and Varaha. One has to climb the flight of stairs from the previous temple to reach here. The upper limit of the cave is put up with carvings of Vishnu from prospect of Puranas.

Cave Temple 3 – One has to climb the flight of stairs from the previous temple to reach here. This 100 feet unfathomable cave temple was constructed during the period of Chalukya  Kritivarma approximately 578 AD. In the interior of the temple one can find Lord Vishnu in carved avatars of Narasimha and Trivikrama. It also houses mural paintings that showcase the wedding ceremony of Shiva and Parvati.

Cave Temple 4 – It is committed to Jainism. One can find statuette of Tirthankaras carved within the cave.

3. Badami Fort

The Badami Fort is seated on the top of a hill adjoining two Shivalaya multifaceted. In the 5^th era emperor Pulakeshi II constructed these Shivalayas. The greater Shivalaya is dedicated to Lord Shiva while the lesser one is dedicated to Lord Ganesh.

Badami Fort is was built by Chalukyan King Pulakesgi in 543 AD. Perched on the top of a cliff, this fort is accompanied by two Shivalaya complexes dating back to the 5th century. A 16th century and a 14th century watchtower are also featured atop this hill.

4. Open Air Museum

The museum is positioned at the northern citadel. It was established in the year 1979. The museum mostly comprises of primordial rock tools and statuette which dates back to 6^th to 16^th AD.

Other Interesting Places in and around Badami

• Sangameshwara temple
• Banashankari Temple
• Aihole
• Ravanaphadi Cave
• Pattadakkal
• Agastya Lake
• Tipu’s Fort
• Durga Temple

Best season to visit Badami

September to March is reasonable and the perfect time to visit Badami. The summers are very hot and not suitable for travelling. The monsoon reason has heavy rain falls. The winter is fairly good for excursion. In the spring time it looks enchanted.

Accessibility to Badami

• By Road: Badami is connected to major towns in and around Karnataka. Numerous KSRTC and private buses ply to Badami.
• By Rail: The nearest rail head is Bagalkot Railway Station situated 38 kms away and Hubli Railway Station 103 km away from the city. The station connects the city to the northern and southern parts of India.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Belgaum Airport 139 km away from the city. The Bangalore International Airport is 509 km away from the city and connects it to the major towns around the globe.

Accommodations in Badami

Badami is the best tourist spot in Karnataka. It has many hotels, resorts, guest house, home stay and lodges that provide indispensable facilities at reasonable prices. The charges may differ from hotel to hotel and most of them offer advanced booking and reservations for safe and comfortable stay of the visitors. List of hotels located in Badami are:

• Badami Court Hotel
• Rajsangam International Hotel
• Anugraha Deluxe Hotel
• Mayura Chalukya Hotel
• Hotel Geeta
• Ayodhya Hotel
• Sanman Hotel
• Akashata Darshini Hotel
• Hotel Mookambika Deluxe
• Hotel Travel Inn
• Pulakeshi Hotel
• New Satkar Delux Hotel
• Homestay-inn And Guesthouse
• Hotel New Satkar
• Anand Deluxe Hotel

Full History

Badami is one of the most important centers of temple architecture, related to the Early Chalukyan period of rule. It is situated around 500 kilometers away from Bangalore (the Karnataka capital) and is well connected by any means of transport.

You have always heard how Karnataka is one of the ultimate heritage destinations in the whole India. When you are looking to taste some rich cultural and historical flavor of India, Karnataka is one of the best tourist destinations to where most people flock. Yes, the place, being a modern IT sector hub albeit, has a mystical charm about it when it comes to old traditions, customs and heritage. And when you visit Karnataka, how can you not visit one of the most popular heritage destinations in Karnataka, that is, Badami. Today, Badami stands as a crumple of ruins of the archaic monuments and temples on a red ridge of sandstone. Once, Badami was a manifestation of the glorious early Chalukyan age. It was founded and made the capital of the Chalukyan kingdom during the reign of Pulakeshi I.

According to Indian mythological legend, there lived two demons called Ilvala and Vatapi, who used to trick and eat passing mendicants. But when they were demolished by the ‘Agastya muni’, they turned into twin hills of Badami. This place saw much bloodshed, mainly between the Pallava and the Chalukyan dynasties. But during this bloodshed, there was also a glorious phase for the Indian temple architecture where both the dynasties contributed their part and evolved there was a Dravidian style of architecture that blended north Indian and south Indian styles.

Out of all the main temples, there are a group of four cave temples that the main historical attraction of Karnataka. The four caves are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati and Adinath (Jain thirthankara).

In the first cave temple, you will find the different carvings and paintings of Lord Shiva in his ‘Nataraja’ pose. Dating back to that 5th century CE, it has some manifestations of Lord Shiva in his ‘Ardhanareeswara’ and ‘Harihara’ incarnations. You will find reliefs of Shanmukha, Ganapati and Mahishasuramardhini reliefs over there as well.

In second cave temple, you will find the images of Trivikrama and Varaha incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Covering the flight of sixty-four stairs, you reach the cave temple where you find images of Garuda and Vishnu, and so forth.

In the third cave temple, reached over 60 steps into a 100-feet cave, you will find the Trivikrama and Narasimha avatar images of Lord Vishnu. Dating back to around 578 CE, this cave temple also contains images of the Lord Shiva-Goddess Parvati divine marriage. It all flourished during the age of Kiritivarma Chalukya.

In the fourth one, you will get a glimpse of the sixth Jain culture. You will find the carving of the Parshavnatha thirthankara, Mahavira and Adinath thirthankara in this temple.

Apart from these temple caves, there are two other noteworthy temples of Dattatreya and Mallikarjuna, especially the latter one that was built on star shaped platform.

Then you cannot miss the Badami archaeological museum with the Nandi (bull of Lord Shiva) at the entrance. Moreover, you will get some of the best demonstrations of the Lajja-Gauri (fertility cult). You will also find the Shivalayas on the nearby hillocks. While the upper one, formed during the reign of Pulakeshi II, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the lower one is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. You get to see the firsthand show of Indian artillery (cannon) and a watchtower over there.

Constructed during the 5th century, there was a temple raised to the Lord Shiva, the lord of the five ‘Bhuta’ elements, and was called the Bhutanatha temple.

Well, that was quite a demonstration of the heritage destination, Badami of Karnataka.

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