Top 15 Must Visit Places in and around Shivamogga (Shimoga)

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.