Karnataka

Situated in the southern part of India, the state of Karnataka spreads over the Deccan Plateau. At 300B.C., it had formed the southern tip of the Mauryan Empire. Its boundaries enlarged or receded swaying to the drum beats of history & today it accounts for a sixteenth area of India & has a population of about 45 million. Its language is Kannada & its people are known as kannadigas. The three distinct regions are a narrow coastal area along Arabian Sea; high hills, the Western Ghats; & sprawling plains towards the east.

Karnataka popularly known for Carnatic Music through out the World has given much more to the World than Carnatic Music, a unique form of Classical Music patronized by many across the continents. Karnataka with all its richness in culture and traditional grandeur is also one of the fastest growing states in terms of industries and facilities. Karnataka is also known as the Capital of Agarbathi (Incense Sticks), Arecanut, Silk, Coffee and Sandal Wood. All this is apart from the fact that it has been the culture center for hundreds of years and its testimony stands spread across the state pulling millions of tourists from all parts of the world to Karnataka. Karnataka was known as Karunadu (elevated land) in ancient times. It is also believed that the name Karnataka has come from "Kari-nadu" meaning the land of black soil say the scholars, & some others hold that Karunadu also means beautiful country; either way the land is celebrated as beautiful throughout its ancient literature.

The western strip across the Arabian sea is humid & warm in summer, water-soaked in monsoon, profuse with coconut grooves & paddy fields criss-crossed by strips of silvery streams & sparkling stretches of sand.

The hilly uplands of Malanad, One of the wettest regions of the world, where the bamboo flourishes wild & areca, teak, rosewood & matti are grown. It is also the home of the stately gaur & langur. In its southern reaches frequent kheddas are held to capture roaming groups of elephants. Also the swift deer & the deadly tiger, roam animatedly in the forests.

The east of the ghats is strikingly bare. This elevated stretch is supposed to be the oldest land on the earth where ancient rocks of earth are seen jutting in & out odd shapes. Rivers like Cauvrey, Sharavathi & Ghataprabha pass through upgraded valleys & resulting in water-falls & occasional rapids. The torrential fall of these rivers have been harnessed to generate hydroelectric power.

The Capital par excellence

The capital par excellence Bangalore today has become an Industrial Metropolis. It is also called India's science city. Sophisticated industries in the public sector employ thousands and thousands of workers. It is also called the Electronics city because most of the country's basic electronic industries are based here. It is the fastest growing city in Asia.

Aircraft building, telecommunication, aeronautics, machine manufacture, etc., have taken giant strides here. Bangalore was known for its salubrious climate, which however is now being debated because of the accelerated progress of modern industry. It is also called an air-conditioned city and a pensioner's paradise.

Karnataka is beautiful not only in the eyes of her sons and daughters. She captivates any one who sets eyes on her. It was the great Mauryan Emperor Chandragupta who traversed all the way from Magadha to distant Sravanabelagola to lay his remains in this land before entering the Kingdom of God.

The course of Karnataka's history and culture takes us back to pre-historic times. The earliest find of the Stone Age period in India was a hand axe at Lingasugur in Raichur district. The Ashoka's rock edicts found in the state indicates that major parts of Northern Karnataka were under the Mauryas. Chandragupta Maurya, the great Indian emperor abdicated the throne and embraced Jainism at Sravanabelagola. Adding new dimensions to the cultural and spiritual ethos of the land, many great dynasties left their imprint upon the aesthetic development of Karnataka's art forms. Prominent among them were the Chalukyas, the Hoysalas and the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. The Chalukyans built some of the very early Hindu temples in India. Aihole turned up as an experimental base for the dynamic creations of architects. The Hoysalas who ruled from the 11th to the 13th century chiseled their way into the pages of glory by building more than 150 temples each one is a masterpiece in its own way. The amazing dexterity and fluidity of expressions at Somnathpur, Halebid and Belur open themselves to the wide-eyed wonder in one's eyes. Vijayanagara, the greatest of all medieval Hindu empires and one of the greatest the world over, fostered the development of intellectual pursuits and fine arts. "The eye of the pupil has never seen a place like it and the ear of intelligence has never been informed that there existed anything to equal it in the world" is what Abdur Razaaq the Persian ambassador had to say about Krishnadevaraya's time.

The Vijayanagara Empire with its capital at Hampi fell a victim to the marauding army of the Deccan Sultan in 1565 A.D. As a consequence of this, Bijapur became the most important city of the region. This city is a land of monuments and perhaps no other city except Delhi has as many monuments as Bijapur. The Bahmani Shahis and the Adilshahis of Bijapur have played a notable part in the history of Karnataka by their contribution to the field of art and architecture and also by their propagation of Islam in the state.

Hyder Ali and his valiant son Tipu Sultan are notable figures in the history of the land. They expanded the Mysore kingdom on an unprecedented scale and by their resistance against the British, became personages of world fame. Tipu was a great scholar and lover of literature. His artistic pursuits were also many and he made rich gifts to the Hindu temples. Tipu Sultan "Tiger of Karnataka" was killed in 1799 A.D., and the Mysore throne was handed over to the Wodeyar's. The whole of Karnataka came under the control of the British in the beginning of the 19th century. The new state was named as new Mysore and the Maharaja of Mysore was appointed Governor by Independent India. This unified state was renamed as Karnataka on November 1, 1973.

General Information

State Capital Bangalore
Area ('000 sq. km) 192
Principal Language Kannada
For further information log on to http://kstdc.nic.in/

Aihole

Once the capital of the early Chalukyan dynasty (6th to 8th centuries), Aihole is a picturesque village on the banks of the Malaprabha River. Variously called Ayyavole & Aryapura in the inscriptions, Aihole is historically famous as the cradle of Hindu temple architecture. There are about 125 temples divided into 22 groups scattered all over the villages and nearby fields. Most of these temples were built between the 6th & 8th centuries and some even earlier.

Only mere traces of a fort dating from the 6th century can be seen today. A large number of prehistoric sites have been found in Morera Angadigalu, near the Meguti hillocks in Aihole. Excavations near some temples have yielded traces of antique pottery and bases of structures constructed with bricks of pre-Chalukyan times. More temples are being excavated every day bearing witness to the vigorous experimentation on temple architecture which went on at Aihole more than 14 centuries ago.

General Information

Area 4 sq. Kms.
Altitude 593 meters
Temperature Mean Max Mean Min
Summer 41oC 28oC
Winter 31oC 20oC
Rainfall 58.4 cms
Best Seasons October to March
Clothing
Summer - Light Cottons
Winters - Light Woolens

Access

Air : The nearest airport in Karnataka is Bangalore (483 Kms); Also Aihole can be reached from Hyderabad via Raichur.

Rail : The nearest railhead is Bagalkot (43 Kms) on the Hubli-Sholapur line & is connected to Badami, Bangalore & Bijapur.

Road : Aihole has convenient road connections to several important places around it. Some of these are

Aminagad (10 Kms)
Badami (46 Kms)
Bangalore (483 Kms)
Bijapur (129 Kms)
Hampi (146 Kms)
Pattadakal (17 Kms)

Accommodation

Tourist Rest House
Aihole, Hungund Taluk
Ph: 8352-41
Tourist Rest Houses of Tourism Department

Aihole - Places Of Interest

Durga Temple
The temple derives its name from Durgadagudi meaning 'temple near the fort'. Dedicated to Vishnu, the temple appears to be a Hindu adaptation of the Buddhist chaitya (hall) with its apsidal end. Standing on a high platform with a 'rekhanagara' type of Shikhara, it is the most elaborately decorated monument in Aihole. The columns at the entrance and within the porch are carved with figures and ornamental reliefs. The temple appears to be a late 7th or early 8th century construction.

Ladh Khan Temple
The experimental nature of temple building by the Chalukyas is best elaborated in the Ladh Khan Temple, located south of the Durga Temple. Not knowing how to build a temple, they built it in the Panchayat hall style. The windows were filled up with latticework in the northern style and the sanctum was added later on. The sanctum is built against the back wall and the main shrine has a Shivalinga along with a Nandi. Above the center of the hall, facing the sanctum is a second smaller sanctum with images carved on the outer walls. The temple, built about 450 AD, gets its name from a Muslim prince who converted it into his residence.

Meguti Temple
The only dated monument in Aihole, the Meguti Temple was built atop a small hill in 634 AD. Now partly in ruins, possibly never completed, this temple provides an important evidence of the early development of the Dravidian style of Architecture. The inscription dating the monument is found on one of the outer walls of the temple and records its construction by Ravikeerti, who was a commander & minister of Pulakesin II. Apparently a Jain Temple as seen from the seated Jain figure here, the superstructure rising above the sanctum wall of the temple is not original & the 16-columns porch and hall extension are later additions.

Ravanphadi Cave
Located south-east of the Hucchimalli Temple, this rock-cut temple is assigned to the 6th century. The sanctum is larger than those in Badami cave temples and it is provided with a vestibule flanked by carved panels, entered through a triple entrance. Despite the variety of images found here, the Mahishasuramardhini, the great Dancing Shiva linga with Ganesha and sapta-matrikas and the linga inside the sanctum an overall Shiva application.

Hucchimalli Temple
This appears to be one of the earliest groups of temples in Aihole, located to the north of village behind the Tourist Home. The sanctum has a northern style "Rekhanagara" tower over it. The vestibule in front of the sanctum was introduced for the first time here.

Gowda Temple
Close to Ladh Khan Temple & built in the similar lines, the Gowda Temple was dedicated to Bhagavati. Standing on a high moulded base and having about 16 fairly plain pillars, this temple was probably built even earlier than the other structures.

Surayanarayana Temple
Located to the northeast of Ladh Khan Temple, the sanctum of this temple has a 0.6-meter high icon of Surya along with his two consorts Usha & Sandhaya, being drawn by horses. The temple, dating from the 7th - 8th centuries, has a four-pillared inner and a 'Rekhanagara' tower over the sanctum.

Konti Group of Temples
Situated in the middle of bazaar, the earliest of these temples was probably built in the 5th century. The first temple has panels of Brahma, Shiva & a reclining Vishnu on the ceiling.

Museum & Art Gallery
A sculpture gallery is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India in the Durga Temple complex.

Shopping at Aihole
Ilkal (36 Kms) is famous for its traditional handloom, art silk and silk sarees.

Badami

Badami, the one time capital of the Chalukyas , is noted several temples, some structural & other rock-cut, of the 6th & 7th Centuries. The foundations of Badami, or Vatapi as it was called, were laid by Pulakeshin I (535 - 566 AD), his son Kirtivarman the Ist (567 - 598 AD), beautified the town with temples & other buildings.

Mangalesha (598 - 610 AD), brother of Kiritavarman I completed the construction of the cave temples & endowed the temples with the village on the occasion of the installation of the image of Vishnu. The greatest ruler of the dynasty was Pulakeshi II (610-642 AD) who among others defeated the Pallava King Mahendra Verman I. The Pallavas later captured & destroyed Badami to avenge their defeat. Badami was also in the possession of the Vijayanagar Kings, The Adil Shahis of Hyderabad, The Savanur Nawabs, The Marathas, Hyder Ali of Mysore & finally the British who made it part of the Bombay Presidency.

General Information

Area 10.3 sq. Kms.
Altitude 176.7 meter
Temperature Mean Max Mean Min
Summer 38oC 23oC
Winter 29oC 15oC
Rainfall 50 cms
Best Seasons October to March
Clothing
Summer - Cottons
Winters - Light Woolens
Population 15,028 (1981 Census)

Access

Air - The nearest airport in Karnataka is Bangalore [502 Kms], Also Badami can be reached from Hyderabad via Raichur.

Rail - The nearest railhead is Badami (4 Kms from Badami town) on the Hubli-Sholapur line & is connected to , Bangalore, Bagalkote & Bijapur.

Road - Badami has convenient road connection to several important places around it. We recommend Hubli (app. 100 Kms), which has a major Railway junction apart from being one of the important cities in Karnataka. Some of these areAihole (46 Kms) Bangalore (502 Kms) Bagalkote (66 Kms) Bijapur (132 Kms) Gadag (70 Kms)
Hampi (180 Kms) Hospet (167 Kms) Hubli (97 Kms) Pattadakal (27 Kms) Panaji (284 Kms)

Festivals

Banashankari Temple Festival near Badami during January- February.
Virupaksha temple Car Festival in Pattadakal in March.
Mallikarjuna Temple Festival in Pattadakal in March-April.

Accommodation

Hotel Mayura Chalukya
Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation
PWD Complex, Ramdurg Road.
Hotel Badami Court
Station Road, Badami
Mahakuteshwara Lodge,
Station Road, Badami
Chalukya Lodge
Station Road, Badami
Lakshmi Vilas Hotel,
Market Area, Badami

Badami - Excursion

Aihole - 46 Kms, There is a remarkable group of temples here built during the reign of Chalukyan rulers, dating from the sixth to the eighth centuries.

Banashankari Temple - Banashankari, 50 Kms, the temple, dedicated to Banashankari or Shakambari - a form of Parvati - is located at Cholachigud popularly called Banashankari. Originally built by the late Chalukyas of Kalyan, the present temple belongs to the 17th Century. The icon of goddess is made of black stone and is seated as a lion, trampling the demon with her foot. The temple is built in the Dravidian style. There is a large pond in front of the temple called Harida Tirtha - a corruption of Harishchandra Tirtha. This goddess is the beloved of the weaver community. A fair & festival is held here in January - February.

Guledgud - 24 Kms Guledgud meaning "emigrants" hill came to be so called after emigrants came & settled here beside a hill. Singappa Naik Desai, an officer of Ibrahim Adil Shah II of Bijapur, built a fort here in 1580. The present town was built at the site of dry lake in 1705. There are several temples & a Dargah of Sayyad Basha.

Lakkundi - 82 Kms, about 12 Kms south-east of Gadag, Lakkundi is a place of antiquarian interest with as many as 50 temples & 29 inscriptions, spread over the period of the later Chalukyas, Kalachuris, Seunas & the Hoysalas. A great center of Chalukyan art, there are several temples of note here. Among them Kasi Vishwanatha is the most ornate & elaborately furnished. There is also a Jain Temple dedicated to Mahavira, the largest & oldest shrines at Lakkundi. Lakkundi is also noted for its steep wells, artistically built with small-canopied niches inside the walls of the wells enshrining lingas. There is sculpture gallery maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Lakkundi Temple - Mahakuta, 14 Kms, once a great center of the shaiva cult, Mahakuta is a beautiful place surrounded by hills. The Mahakuteshwara temple dedicated to Shiva, is built in the Dravidian style. There are several small shrines around it with a wealth of carvings on the walls. There are few other Shiva temples in Mahakuta dating back to the days of the Chalukyas, This place is often called Dakshina Kasi because of its religious sanctify.

Naganath Temple - 10 Kms, located in a forest on the way to Mahakuta, it is one of the early Chalukyan temples dedicated to Shiva.

Badami - Places Of Interest

Badami Caves - 1 km, this group of 4 cave temples have been carved out of the hill opposite Badami fort. The Chalukyan king, Mangalesa(598-610)AD)was responsible for the completion of these cave temples. Of the four, three are Brahmanical, while the fourth is Jain. Nearly 2000 steps have to be climbed to reach the cave.

Cave I - This is a Shaivite cave. The important carvings in this cave are an 18-armed dancing Shiva, a two-handed Ganesha, Mahishasura Mardini, Ardha Nareeshwara & Shankarnarayana. The ceiling is adorned by a serpent motif & other carved figures

Cave II - This cave has Vaishnavite influence with panels of Trivikrama & Bhuvaraha. On the ceilings are carvings of Anantasayana, Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva &other Ashtadikpalas.

Cave III - Another flight of steps takes one to the third cave, which is the largest & the best of the lot. This cave has carvings pertaining to both Shaivite & Vaishnavite themes. Panels of Trivikrama, Narasimha, Shankaranarayana, Bhuvaraha, Anantasayana & Harihara are engraved in a vigorous style. An inscription found here records the creation of the shrine by Mangalesha in 578 AD. There are some fine bracket figures on the pillars of this cave.

Cave IV - Lying to the east of cave three, the fourth cave is Jain. There is an image of Mahavira adorning the sanctum. Other carvings here are of Padmavathi & other Thirthankaras. Asteep climb up some steps cut in a crevice between Cave II & III leads to the southern part of Badami Fort & to an old gun placed there by Tippu Sultan.

Badami Fort - 2 Kms. Strategically situated on top of the hill, the fort encloses large granaries, a treasury impressive temples on top of the northern end of the hill. Malegitti Shivalaya, perhaps the oldest temple of the lot, is dedicated to the benign aspect of Shiva as the garland maker. Placed on the summit of a rocky hill, the temple is built of stone, finely joined without mortar, & with Dravidian tower. The lower Shivalaya has a Dravidian tower of which only the sanctum remains now.

There are some more temples in Badami town & several of them dotting the banks of a well-built tank locally called the Agasthya Tirtha.

Jain Temple - A number of Jain temples and a figure of Parshwanatha are the landmarks of this city as they stand atop a cliff.

Nataraja Temple - The eighteen-armed Nataraja striking 81 dance poses is the unique center of attraction here. Believed to be the first cave temple, it is one of its own kinds in the whole of India.

Vishnu Temple - The largest third cave temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is the most ornamental temple in Badami. There are wonderful bracket figures on the piers and also some paintings on the ceiling. Some splendid carvings of the composite god who is half Shiva and half Vishnu, Hindu pantheon, such as Narasimha, the half-man-half-god lion incarnation of Vishnu, Harihara, Narayana sitting as well as reclining on the snake 'Shesh' or 'Anantha' (eternity) are also there.

Lake - The water of this lake to said to have the healing properties. A bracy dip in the serene waters of this lake is said to cure leprosy.

Archaeological Museum - This museum set up by the Archaeological Survey of India houses artifacts of local sculptures including the remarkable Lajja-Gauri images of fertility cult. The tourists visiting Badami can opt for comfortable and luxurious accommodation in Badami, Karnataka. The hotels in Badami give the tourists every modern facility to make their stay memorable in Badami.

Museum & Art Gallery - A sculpture gallery is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India on the Bhutanatha Temple Road.

Bandipur

Nesting in the foothills of the Nilgiris, the Bandipur National Park was formed by extending the Venugopal Wildlife Park, set up in 1931 by the Mysore Maharajas. It is one of the tiger reserves in the country.

A popular game resort of the rulers of Mysore, the flora in the forest comprises Teak, Rosewood, Honne, Mathi, Bamboo and Sandal Trees. The important animals in the park are Tiger, Elephant, Gaur, Leopard, Chital and Sambar. Birds like the Peafowl, Partridge, Quail, Hornbill and Ibis are also found here. Apart from these, Dhole(wild dog), Sambar, Muntjac or Barking Deer, Giant Squirrel and sometimes Sloth Bear and Nocturnal Porcupine and Blacknaped Hare may be seen in the sanctuary.

Well planned motorable roads close to the perennial and seasonal water points, and adequate open space in the jungle allow visitors to observe animals closely, particularly elephant herds, by car. It is always advisable to maintain a safe distance from these large animals even if you are in your car.

Pug marks on soft earth in the permissible tourism zone attest to the presence of tigers, though they are rarely sighted. Much less seen is the leopard, the other major carnivore.

Visitors can hire elephants or a vehicle to go round the park. They can also visit the nearby Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. The Moyar River forms a natural boundary between the two.

General Information

Area 874 sq. km
Altitude 780-1454.5 mete
Temperature Mean Max Mean Min
29 17.1
Rainfall 100cm
Best Seasons May to June & September to November
Clothing Cotton throughout the year

Shopping - A provision store is available in the park. The nearest market /shopping center is at Gundlupet (18 km).
Foreign Exchange Outlets - Banks/Money Changers at Gundlupet(18 km).
Using Local Telephones - Private run telephone Booths having both STD and ISD facilities are available about 30 kms from Bandipur, across the Madhumalai border. Sports Activity & other Miscellaneous Information - Trekking for wildlife enthusiasts and naturalists is organized by the Forest Department. Trained forest guides lead the expeditions.
Garages : The nearest petrol pump is at Gundlupet (18 km).
Hospitals & Nursing Homes - Gundlupet.

Access

Air : The nearest airport is Bangalore, at a distance of 215 Kms.

Rail : The nearest railhead is Mysore, which is 76 Kms, and connects most of the major junctions of Karnataka.

Road : Bandipur is accessible by Road, either from Mysore or from Ooty (Tamil Nadu). It is at a distance of 215 Kms from Bangalore, 76 Kms from Mysore and about 70 Kms from Ooty. The best way of reaching Bandipur is either by your own transport, which is recommended, or government buses as no private buses go to Bandipur.

Wildlife In Bandipur

Fauna
- Tiger, Elephant, Gaur, Leopard, Chital, Sambar, Sloth Bear, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Wild Dog, Jackal, Mouse Deer, Four-Horned antelope, common Langur, Porcupine, Otter, Pangolin, Malabar Squirrel, Civet Cat, Leopard, Hare, Jungle Cat, Bonnet Macaque.

Reptiles
- Land monitor, Crocodile, Tortoise, Python, Cobra, Krait, Viper, Rat Snake, Flying lizard.

Flora
- The forests consist predominantly of teak with its main associate species like Rosewood, Honne, Nandi, Mathi, Hunal, Dindal, Bamboo, Bende, Sandal, Mavu and Muthuga.

Avifauna
- Peafowl, Grey Jungle Fowl, Partridge, Quail, Paradise Fly-Catcher, Hornbill, Woodpecker, Thrush, Crested Hawk Eagle, Serpent Eagle, Drongo, Cuckoo, Oriole, Minivet, Wagtail, Myna, Blue Jay, Kingfisher.

Bangalore

In the year 1120 AD, the Chola King, Veera Ballalla ruled the Deccan plateau or the South of India. On a hunting trip in the forest he lost his way. After a long search he met an old lady in the forest who offered him shelter for the night and served him baked beans for dinner. To show his gratitude to this lady for having saved his life, the King constructed a town and named it as Benda Kalooru, which means Baked Beans. Later in 1537, a local chieftain, Kempe Gowda helped design this town and give it its modern shape.

Today Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka ranks as one of the fastest growing cities in Asia. Its pleasant climate, friendly people, and its highly educated population have made this the Silicon Valley of India with almost all Computer related multinationals setting up their India head office at Bangalore. Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister termed this as "India's city of the future".

Bangalore is the "Garden City of India" with its many gardens and boulevards. Its pleasant climate and laid-back charm attracted many senior citizens and thus later on came to be called at "the retired man's paradise". And of course what is Bangalore without all its Pubs. Its is now also called the Pub City with over 200 Pubs all over the town.

Bangalore - Access

Access

Air Network

Bangalore International Airport has flights to all the main cities of India and also flights to many West Asian destinations as well as London and Frankfurt.

Rail Network

Bangalore city railway station is an important destination in the Indian Railway network with trains connecting to most parts of India including the Rajdhani Express, Sampark Kranti non stop express (from Yeshwantpur) and Karnataka Express to Delhi, Shatabdi Express, Lalbag Express to Chennai, Udyan Express to Mumbai.

Road Network

Bangalore is connected to some of the major cities of India through the National

Highways NH4, NH7 & NH48.

Bangalore To Trivandrum 761 Kms
Bangalore To Chennai 334 Kms
Bangalore To Hyderabad 566 Kms
Bangalore To Goa (Panaji) 570 Kms
Bangalore To Mumbai 1033 Kms

Bangalore - Accommodation

Accommodation

Hotels in Bangalore

Luxury (Over Rs 6000)

The Oberoi, 37-39 MG Road, Bangalore - 560 001 , Phone: 2558 5858, Fax: 2558 5960, Tollfree: 1-600-11-2030 , Email: excentre@oberoihotels.com

The Taj West End , Race Course Road , Bangalore , Phone: 2225-5055, 5660-5666, Fax: 2220-0010 , Email: westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com

The Leela Palace, 23, Airport Road, Bangalore, Phone: 2521 1234, 2521 2727, Fax: 2521 2929 , Email: admin@theleelablr.com

Windsor Manor ITC Hotel, Windsor Square, Oppoiste Bangalore Golf Course, 25, Sankey Road, Bangalore. Phone: 2226 9898, Fax: 2226 4941, Email: sales@windwor.welcomegroup.co.in

The Park Hotel, 14/7 MG Road, Bangalore - 560 001 , Phone: 2559 4666, Fax: 2559 4029, Email: tpbl@theparkhotels.com

Taj Residency, 41/3 MG Raod, Bangalore - 560 001, Phone: 2558 4444, Fax: 2558 4748, Email: resdency.bangalore@tajhotels.com

Le Meridien, 28, Sankey Road, Bangalore. Phone: 2226 2233, 2228 2828, Email: leme@vsnl.net

Park Plaza, 1,Golf Avenue, Airport Road, Bangalore. Phone: 2521 6228, 2521 6039, Fax: 2521 6247, Email: roppBlr@vsnl.net

Grand Ashok, Kumara Krupa, High Grounds, Bangalore. Phone: 22269462, 2225-0202, Fax: 22250033, Email: htlashok@Blr.vsnl.net.in

Ramanashre Comforts, 16, Rajaram Mohan Roy Road, Near Richmond Circle, Bangalore. Phone: 22225152

Holiday Inn , 28, Sankey Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22262233, Fax: 22267676.

Kamath Yatri Nivas, 4,1 Main, Gandhi Nagar, Bangalore. Phone: 2226-0088

Medium (Rs 3000 - Rs 6000)

Infantry Court, 66, Infantry Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25591800, 25592281, 25592283, hotline: 25582306, Fax: 2559-2276, Email: hotelic@vsnl.com

St. Mark's Hotel, 4/1, St. Mark's Road, Bangalore - 560 001, Phone: 2227 9090, Fax: 2227 5700, Email: stmarks@vsnl.com

The Central Park, 47, Dickenson Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25584242, Fax: 25587609, 25588594, Email: centpark@blr.vsnl.net.in

Gateway Hotel, Residency Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25584545, Fax: 2558-4030, Email: gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com

The Capitol, Raj Bhavan Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22281234/515, Fax: 22259933, Email: tehcapitol@vsnl.com

The Monarch, 54,Brigade Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25591915, Fax: 25327199, Email: hotelmonarch@yahoo.co.in

Angsana Oasis Spa & Resort, Doddaballapur Main Road, Addevishwanathapura Village, Rajankunte, Bangalore - 560064, Phone: 28468892-96, Fax: 28468897, Email: bangalore@angsana.com

Nalapad's Hotel Bangalore International, 2a-2b Crescent Road, High Grounds, Bangalore. Phone: 22268011,22268031, Fax: 2226-8015, Email: nahbi@blr.vsnl.net.in

The Chancery, 10/6 Lavelle Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22276767, Fax: 2227-6700, Email: thechancery@vsnl.com

The Richmond Hotel, 88/2, Richmond Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22233666, Fax: 2223377, Email: restrh@vsnl.net

Museum Inn, 1, Museum Road, off M G Road, Bangalore - 560001. Phone: 5111 3333, Fax: 5111 3300

Eagleton - The Golf Resort, 30th Km. Bangalore Mysore Highway, Shynamangala Cross, Bidadi Industrial Area, Bangalore-Rural. TeleFax: 27287222 / 233 / 244 / 255 / 266, Email: sales@eagletonindia.com

The Atria, No.1 Palace Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22205205, Fax: 22256850, Email: atria.blr@gnblr.globalnet.ems.vsnl.net.in

Budget (Rs 1000 - Rs 3000)

Ivory Tower, On the Penthouse floors of Barton Center, 84, MG Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25589333/25585164, Fax: 25588697, Email: ivoryhot@satyam.net.in

Nahar Heritage Hotel, 14 St. Mark's Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22278731-36 ( 6 lines), Fax: 22278737

Curzon Court, 10, Brigade Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25581698,25582997, Fax: 25582278

Highgates Hotel, 33,Church Street, Bangalore. Phone: 25597172, Fax: 25597799

Harsha Hotel & Convention Center, Park Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22865566,2865555, Fax: 22865943, Email: harshahotel@yahoo.com

Sukh Sagar Hotel, 10, 3rd Main Raod, Gandhinagar, Bangalore. Phone: 22202255, Fax: 22256730

Woodlands Hotel (P) Ltd., 5, Raja Rammohan Roy Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22225111, Fax: 22236936

Jerrace Gardens, Kausalya Villa, 15 Brunton Road Crs. (off MG Road), Bangalore. Phone: 25584987 / 25584797 / 25581836, Fax: 25591047, Email: terracegarden@vsnl.net

Hotel Algate, 93,Residency Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25594786 - 89, 25596965/66, Email: algate@bgl.vsnl.net.in

Compact Guest House, 28,3rd Main, 7th Cross, Domulr Layout, Bangalore. Phone: 25353881 / 25351893

Ashraya International Hotel, 149, Infantry Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22261921, Fax: 22263982

Hotel Rama, 40/2, Lavelle Road, Bangalore. Phone: 22273311-14,22273381-84

The Basil, 8, Sampige Road, Malleshwaram, Bangalore. Phone: 23315123, 23464353, Fax: 23343904

Hotel Shangrila, 182, Brigade Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25588994, Fax: 25582984, Email: hotelshangrila@hotmail.com

Hotel Vellara, 126 (New no.283) Brigade Road, Opp Brigade Towers, Bangalore. Phone: 25369116, 25369205, 25369775, 25365684

Hotel Maurya, 22/4, Race Course Road, Gandhi Nagar, Bangalore. Phone: 2225 4111-119, Fax: 2225 6685, Email: hotelmaurya@hotmail.com

Vintage Residency, 9, Mission Road, Bangalore. Phone: 2222 5952, 2227 4507, 2227 4510/11, Fax: 2227 4564, Email: vintageresidency@rediffmail.com

Safina Hotel, Safina Plaza Building, Infantry Road, Bangalore. Phone: 25581982-89, Fax: 25581990

Economy (Under Rs 1000)

Airavatam Guest House, 330/7, II 'A' Main Extn., End of 14th Cross, Domlur Layout, Bangalore. Phone: 25353635, 25359476, Cell: 98450-14862 , Email: ram_mohan@mantraonline.com

Service Apartments

HomeStead, Lavella Road, Phone: 2212-0966/67/68

Lavelle Inn, Lavelle Mansion, Lavelle Road. Phone: 51120187, 51120203, 22211033, Melange - 21, Vittal Mallya Road, Phone: 22129700-3

TriStar, 100 Feet Road, Indiranagar, Phone: 51185900

General Information

Shopping At Bangalore

Good buys from Bangalore can include the following:

Silk : Bangalore is known for some of the best silk manufactured in the world. Reputed shops generally offer good material and good bargains if you are in the city during a popular festival.

Handicrafts and Handlooms : A paradise for a tourist is the many Handicraft shops in the town. The specialty of this town is Sandal Wood.

Bangalore - Places of Interest

Vidhana Soudha
The State Legislative and Secretariat House was built in 1956 in the Neo Dravidian Style with granite entirely sourced from the city itself. This imposing structure represents the best of Bangalore's monuments. Do not miss the sight of the illuminated building on Sundays between 7 and 8 PM.

Attara Kacheri
Directly opposite to the Vidhana Soudha is the State High court. This magnificent building was constructed in 1867 in the Gothic Style of architecture.

Venkatappa Art Gallery
One of the country's oldest art museums, this gallery houses many interesting antiques and archaeological objects. (Closed on Wednesday).

Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
Named after the famous Sir M. Visveswaraya , an engineer par excellence who built many famous dams in Karnataka, this Science museum houses models of machines. It is a highly recommended spot for children.(Closed on Monday).

Cubbon Park
Lieutenant General Sir Mark Cubbon laid out this beautiful park in 1864. Over 250 acres of this green park is just right for long walks and hosts a children's amusement park, a doll museum and a toy train for children. Children's parties can be arranged with cartoons characters etc. in the park. The Vijayranga Theater complex screens children's films and stage plays.

Lalbagh Gardens
Bangalore's other sprawling park is in the South of the city. HyderAli laid out the Lalbagh Gardens in the year 1760. It covers an area of 240 acres. The Glass House, inspired by the Crystal Palace in London is a favourite spot in Lalbagh which hosts the famous Flower show during the month of August.

Bangalore Palace
The Bangalore Palace was built in the year 1887 by the Wodeyar dynasty. It is built similar to medieval castles in Normandy and England . It's interiors boasts of elegant woodcarvings and Tudor -style architecture.

Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall
This houses the State Central Library. This place has a rich collection of reference books. Open between 0830 and 1900 all through the week except on Mondays.

Tipu's Palace
The Palace was constructed first by Hyder Ali and completed by his son Tipu Sultan in the year 1791. Tipu called it as 'The Envy of Heaven'. It is constructed mainly in wood and has fine intricately sculpted arches surrounded by exquisite minarets.

ISKCON Temple
The ISKCON provides much more for the soul, than those rituals. ISKCON are centers of spiritual learning through Godly association, where a visitor is inspired to learn more about Spiritual life. There is a magnificent main temple hall, which houses the altars of Their Lordships Sri Radha Krishna-Chandra, Sri Krishna Balarama & Sri Nitai Gouranga. Also one can see the Golden Chandelier that is shaped like an inverted Lotus Flower.

Fun World:
Fun World is a 12 acre Disney Land Like Amusement Park, tucked into Palace Grounds, Bangalore.

Shiva Statue:
It boasts of Awesome 65 feet high depiction of Lord Shiva seated in Lotus position. It has the backdrop of Mount Kailash the Lord's heavenly abode and the river Ganga flowing from his matted locks as depicted in the mythology.

Bull Temple:
At Basavangudi is one of Bangalore's oldest temples. Built for Nandi, the sacred Bull, the vehicle of Lord Shiva, this temple has a 4.6 meter tall-carved statue of the sacred bull.

Gandhi Bhavan:
Gandhi Bhavan displays the life of the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi with pictures and Photostats of his letters.

Aquarium:
The second largest Aquarium in the country it has a large varsity of aquatic life.( Closed on Monday).

Jawahar Lal Nehru Planetarium:
Befitting the "science city" title that it carries, the Planetarium is an interesting site for children. The English shows are held daily at 1630 Hrs. The Aquarium remains closed on Monday.

Belur

Belur in Hassan district is famous for its magnificent Hoysala Temple Complex. The Chennakeshava temple here was completed in 1116 AD by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Chola. It took 103 years to complete. The facade of the temple is filled with intricate sculptures with no portion left blank. Elephants, episodes from the epics, sensuous dancers, nothing was left un-carved. The Veeranarayana temple houses the shrines of Kappe Chenniga, Andal, Saumya Nayaki, and other dieties.

Belur is 222 Kms from Bangalore, 34 Kms from Hassan and 149 Kms from Mysore. This place is famous for its exquisite temples. Belur is known as Dakshina Varanasi or South Banaras for its temples. The serenity of Belur is attributed to the celebrated temple of Channakeshava, built by the Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana in 117 A. D. to commemorate his conversion from Jainism to Vaishnavism.

Access

The nearest Airports are Bangalore, 222 Kms & Mangalore, 194 Kms.

The nearest Railhead is Hassan, which is connected to other major junctions like Bangalore, Mysore & Mangalore.

The best way to reach Belur is by keeping Hassan as your base. From Hassan, Belur is just 38 Kms away and a host of transport options can be found to travel to these points

Accommodation

Sri Annapoorna Lodge
Temple Road, Belur.

Travellers Bungalow
Department of public works,
Belur.

Sri Vishnu Regency
Main Road, Belur.

Hotel Mayura
Velapuri
Temple Street, Belur.

Places of Interest

The main temple to be seen here is the Channakeshava temple. The main structure of the temple, which is star shaped, is a homogenous architectural unit on a raised platform. Everything is carved in black stone looking like metal. Facing the temple, at the entrance, stands the winged figure of Garuda, Lord Vishnu's carrier.

The 650 charging elephants on the frieze around the walls outside are all different from each other. The exotic bracket figures (Madanikas) on the walls of the temple are serene, playful and amorous, enhancing the overall effect of this pinnacle of architectural excellence.

Inside, even in the darkness you can see the hand-lathe-turned shining pillars, each unique in its splendour. On the smooth circular platform in front of the shrine you can see the beautiful Shantala Devi, queen of King Vishnuvardhana. The spotlight is on the famous bracket figures on the ornate ceiling. All these figures have been inspired by Shantala Devi's beauty.

Sculpted limbs undulated in lyrical lines. One sculpted beauty communicates with a pet parrot whose tail is like that of a peacock another wrings water from her long hair and you can see the drops collected on hair ends. The delicacy and attention to the fines details here are incredible.

Bidar

In the northern-most part of Karnataka lies Bidar-a tiny district steeped in history. The fort, the cannons, palaces in ruins, the magnificent tombs and the massive monuments, all combine to make a visit to the one-time capital of the Bahamani and Barid Shahi dynasties, truly memorable.

Historically, Bidar was a part of the Bahamani Kingdom, which comprised of Bijapur, Gulbarga, Bidar, Golconda, and Birar. The ruler of Bidar was Barid Shah. The Nizams of Hyderabad later ruled Bidar. Bidar witnessed the "religious revolution" under the Lingayat Reformist Basavanna. Basavakalyan from where Shaivism spread.

Bidar boasts of several religious centers: The famous Nanak Jheera - the largest sikh temple in Karnataka, carries the tale that Guru Nanak - the first guru of the Sikhs visited this place and got rid of the scarcity of drinking water in the region. A popular spot is the Guru Nanak Jheera, where fresh crystal clear spring water appears from nowhere. To visit the Narasimha Jheera, you have to tread for at least a furlong inside a cave with waist deep water (and countless bats hanging from the roof!) to seek the view of Lord Narasimha. Papanaash is a temple of Lord Shiva. They say you can see snakes guarding the idol especially during Shivaraathri.

The historical fort of Bidar was a stronghold of the Bahamani Kings in the 14th and 15th centuries. The fort is surrounded by three miles of walls with 37 bastions, most of them surmounted with cannons. This fort was a source of irritation to the Mughal rulers of Delhi, and was finally conquered by Aurangzeb. The fort now lies in ruins.

General Information

Best Seasons September - February
Clothing Cottons throughout the year

Shopping At Bidar
Bidriware, an exquisite artifact

Access

Air : The nearest airport is Hyderabad (136 Kms).In Karnataka, Bangalore is connected all major towns of India.

Rail : Bidar is connected by rail with Bangalore, Mumbai and Hyderabad.

Road : Bidar is connected by road to most places in South India. Some of these are:Hyderabad (136 Kms)
Bangalore (669 Kms) Bijapur (280 Kms) Basavakalyan (73 Kms)

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation buses ply from Bidar to Bangalore, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur and Sholapur.

Accommodation

Hotel Mayura Barid Shahi Main Road
Hotel Kaveri Jabshetty Market,Gandhi Gunj Road
Hotel Kailash Near Bus Station
Basavakalyan Tourist Hotel Bus Station Road
New Venkateshwara Ambedkar Chowk, Bidar
Hotel Ratna Main Road, Bidar
Hotel Ragavendra Station Road, Bidar
Hotel Karanja Near Bus station, Bidar
Hotel Prince Bus Station, Bidar
Hotel Karaj Bidar
Hotel Bidar International Bidar
Deepa Mini Lodge Basaveshwara Chowk, Bidar
Hotel Delux Airlines Main Road, Bidar
Hotel Meera B.N.B College Road, Bidar
Hotel Santosh Shah Kunj, Bidar
Hotel Archana Bhalki, Bidar
Bheema Hotel Complex Humnabad, Bidar

Places of Interest

Bidar Fort - Built by Ahmad Shah Bahmani between 1426 and 1432 A.D, has five Darwazas (gates) with imposing bastions lead into a little town nestling within the ramparts. Enter from the Gumbaz Darwaza and steps lead you to the Rangin Mahal. The royal residence has elaborately carved wooden pillars, Persian couplets engraved in encaustic tiles and exquisite mother-of-pearl inlay work.

Near the palace are the royal kitchens and the royal baths. Further on are the Ladies Apartments with a 16 columned prayer hall built in 1423. The Solah Kamba Masjid, as it is popularly known, is the oldest Muslim building in Bidar and one of the largest in India.

Not to be missed are the Gagan Mahal,the Diwan-E-Am where the fabulous turquoise throne once rested, the Takhat Mahal, the Royal Pavilion, the Hazar Kothari and the Naubat Khana.

Move on to the Bahmani Tombs at Ashtur. The interiors of the tombs are adorned with well-preserved paintings that are excellent examples of medieval Muslim art. The outer walls are decorated in tile work.

Right in the heart of Bidar town stands the Chaubara, a 71 foot tower. You can have a splendid view from the top of the Chaubara.

The Madrasa of Mahamud Gawan is another important building in Bidar. Architecturally similar to Madrasa at Fez, this university was once a renowned center of learning, attracting scholars from all over the Muslim world.

Nearby is Nanak Jhira, famous for its Gurudwara-built in memory of Guru Nanak.

The rock temple at Narasimha Zarni is also worth a visit.

Belgaum

The District Headquarters, Belgaum is a picture of contrasts. On one side is the old town area where the cotton and silk weavers still create magic with their fingers , and on the other the modern, bustling, tree-lined Cantonment built by the British.

Belgaum is one of the fastest growing cities in the northwest part of Karnataka. The district of Belgaum borders two states, Maharashta and Goa. Belgaum is accessible via air from Bombay and Bangalore. It is about 100 km (by road) from Hubli, which is one of the bigger junctions on the South-Central Railway. Belgaum is also connected by rail (single line).

Belgaum has several large industries; important among them is the INDAL Aluminium Factory. Belgaum is famous for the sweets and locally made ice cream. Belgaum is also home to several divisions of the Indian Armed Forces. The Maratha Light Infantry has its regimental headquarters in Belgaum. The Commando School of the Indian Army is also situated in Belgaum. The Indian Air Force has a big airbase near Belgaum.

Belgaum, ancient `Venugrama' (`Bamboo village') was the capital of the Rattas who shifted to this place from Saundatti during the close of 12th century. The place has a fort inside which there is the famous Kamalabasti built in 1204. It has a fine huge protruding lotus (Kamala) in its ceiling and this beautiful structure in Chalukyan style houses Neminatha Teerthankara image. Inside the fort is another excellent structure, the Safa Mosque with three entrances decorated with floral and calligraphic designs. Two of its pillars have Kannada inscriptions in Nagari scripts, one of 1199 of Ratta King Kartaveerya IV and another of 1261 of Sevuna (Yadava) Krishna.

A few other landmarks in Belgaum are: The St. Mary's Chruch built in 1869, the Maruthi temple believed to be of Chalukyan times, the Kapileshwar temple also of Chalukyan times.

Access

Air : Belgaum has an airport.

Rail : Belgaum is connected by rail to Bangalore (via Londa), Mumbai (via Miraj), Vasco da Gama.

Road : Belgaum is connected by road to most places in south and west of India.

Accommodation
Hotel Mayura Malaprabha HUDCO Complex, Highway,
Hotel Utsav Belgaum
Hotel Sanjay Subash Market, Belgaum
Geeta Boarding & Lodging Hindwadi, Belgaum
Karnataka Restaurant Opp. Taluk Office, Athani, Belgaum.
Ganesh Mahal Shivaji Road, Belgaum
Hotel Keerthi Poona Road, Belgaum
Hotel Adarsha Palace College Road, Belgaum
Vaibhav Guest House P.B.Road, Nippani, Belgaum
Karnataka Hotel Opp. Bus Stand, Chikkodi, Belgaum
Ramakrishna Restaurant Near Court Circle, Hukkeri, Belgaum
Hotel Pragathi Mudalgi, Gokak Taluk, Belgaum

Places of Interest

In the heart of Belgaum, near the bus terminus is the Fort. At the entrance are two shrines. One devoted to Ganapathi and another to Durga. Inside the fort are two Bastis in the late Chalukyan style. Of these, the more famous is the Kamala Basti, built in 1204. Come out of the Kamala Basti and you will find another ruined Jain Temple to its right. Co-existing harmoniously with these examples are two ancient mosques- the Safa Masjid and the Jamia Masjid.

Near the 16th century Jamia Masjid is a dargah of Khanjar Wali.

Kittur - No story of Belgaum is complete without a mention of Kittur Rani Chennamma. One of India's first freedom fighters, the queen's heroic resistance is still commemorated locally,in song and story. Her statue stands sentinel over Belgaum at a prominent square.

The Kapileshwara Temple - The Kapileshwara Temple said to be the oldest, the Ananthashayana Temple, the Maruti Temple and the temples of Shiva,Vithoba,Dyamavva and Military Mahadeva.

The Different Churches of Belgaum - Belgaum also has some very impressive churches. St. Mary's Church, St. Xavier's Church (the oldest), St. Anthony's Church, the Cathedral of our Lady and the Methodist church.

Another historical site is the Pampa Sarovara. Built specially for the 1924 All India Congress Session, which was presided by Mahatma Gandhi. Belgaum also has some well laid out parks. The Sambhaji Udyan, the Nath Pai Park and the Shivaji Udyan. Perfect places to relax, to put your feet up and let your imagination soar free.

Gokak Falls - Gokak Falls is 60 kms from Belgaum & 5 kms from Gokak town. The Ghataprabha River takes a leap over a rocky bed 170 feet down. The best season for visiting thiese Falls is between June & September.

Bijapur

The foundations of this historic city were laid during the reign of the Chalukyan Dynasty of Kalyani between the tenth and eleventh centuries. They called it Vijayapura or the "City of Victory" from which comes its present name Bijapur.

Bijapur came under Muslim influence, first under Allaudin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, towards the end of the 13th century, and then under the Bahamani kings of Bidar in 1347.

In 1481, Mohammed III, one of the Bahamani Sultans, appointed one of the sons of Sultan Mahmud II of Turkey, Yusuf Adil Khan as the Governor of Bijapur. Yusuf Adil Khan fled his country on the death of his father, to escape the massacre of crown prince in the battle for succession to the throne. Mahmud Gavan, the Prime Minister of Mohammed III, purchased him as a slave.

With the decline of the Bahamani power at Bidar, Yusuf declared his independence in 1489 and thus became the founder of the Adil Shahi dynasty, which survived as a kingdom. Till its annexation by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1686.

Bijapur experienced a great burst of architectural activity under the Adil Shahi dynasty. The Adil Shahis encouraged building activity to such an extent that Bijapur itself has over 50 mosques, more than 20 tombs and a number of palaces.

Access

Bijapur is well connected by road and rail to Bangalore, Belgaum and Goa.
The nearest airport is Belgaum, 205 kms away.

Accommodation
Hotel Mayura Adil Shahi. Station Road Ph:08352-50934.
Hotel Mayura Adil Shahi Annexe. Stn Road Ph:08352-50401.
Hotel Sanman, Station Road. Ph:08352-51866.
Hotel Samrat, Station Road Ph:08352-51620.
Hotel Madhuvan International, Station Road. Ph:08352-234254

Places of Interest

Gol Gumbaz - Literary meaning, 'round', it is the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah (1627 -56), the seventh ruler of Adilshahi dynasty. Built at his orders before his death, this gigantic mausoleum took 20 years to complete, which dominates the landscape of Bijapur for miles around. It has a floor area of 1700 sq.m. Height of 51 m and diameter of 37 m. The walls are 3 m thick. The central dome, second in size only to the dome of St Peter's Basalica in Rome, stands unsupported by any pillars. The tick of a watch or the rustle of paper can be heard across a distance of 37 m in the Whispering Gallery. The acoustical phenomenon of this dome is such that a sound is echoed eleven times over. Under the dome are the tombs of the Sultan, his two wives, his mistress Ramba, his daughter and grandson. The octagonal turrets which project at an angle and the huge bracketed cornic below the parapet are important features of this monument. From the gallery around the dome, which can be reached by climbing up the turret passages, one can have a fabulous view of the town. The building complex includes a mosque, a Naqqar Khana, a gateway and a dharmashala. The edifice in front of the tomb has been converted into a museum. Listen in silence and the true power of the Gol Gumbaz becomes apparent.

Ibrahim Rauza - Rauza literally means a garden. The square enclosure consists of 2 buildings, one housing the tombs of Ibrahim Adil Shah II & his family & the other a mosque. The tomb, evidently executed under the orders of Ibrahim Adil Shah (1580-1627) is noted for its striking symmetry of proportion, exquisite minarets cupolas, parapets & cornices & is supposed to have been an inspiration for the Taj Mahal at Agra. This monument shows the creativity of its Iranian born architect. Built on a single slab of bedrock, the architect has attained a perfect balance on the site, with the mausoleum on the left and the prayer hall to the right. This whole structure lies above a basement, which houses secret passages (used to store munitions and food) and also holds living quarters for the cavalry, with stables opposite. The gardens are beautifully sculpted and are enclosed within an imposing wall and have some superb gateways. The architect's simple grave lies within the courtyard. He was buried there at his request, to be close to the Sultan. One cannot stop and marvel at the tremendous effort put in by the sculptors, who carved every stone that makes up this beautiful complex. Two stone chains (each carved from a single rock) hang from the sides of the prayer hall. Each door (made in teak wood and re-inforced in metal) in this complex is unique, with some excellent features. The door handles are iron and brass and provide for some intricate patterns, which are largely intact. The arches in the hallway surrounding the inner perimeter of the mausoleum are superbly crafted. The facades of the building provide for some stunning artwork in stone, including a map to the basement, which lies under the mausoleum. An acoustic feature in this complex is worth mentioning. If you are standing at the mausoleum by the graveside of the Sultan, you can distinctly hear the prayers being said at the other end, in the prayer hall. You could be of any religious faith to appreciate the acoustics and the tranquility of the environment.

Malik-e-Maidan - One of the largest bell metal guns in the world; it measures 4.45 m in length, 1.5 m in diameter & weighs 55 tons. Placed on the walls of the city, a unique feature of this legendary cannon of the Adil Shahis is that it is always cool to touch even under the blazing sun & when tapped gently it tinkles softly like a bell. The muzzle of the gun is shaped like the head of a lion with open jaws & between the carved fangs is depicted an elephant being crushed to death. Legend has it that if you touch the gun and make a wish, it will come true!

Bara Kamaan - This unfinished mausoleum of Ali Adil Shah, if completed, might have surpassed all others of its kind. Its 12 graceful arches, which give it the name Bara Kamaan, makes one feel the power of time & death.

Jumma Masjid - Called Jumma Masjid because the Khutba is recited here on Jumma ie. Friday, it is the largest & first constructed mosque in Bijapur. It was built between 1557 -1686, most of it during Ali Adil Shah reign, who acquired the land after defeating the rich Ramaraja of Vijayanagar. The total area of the mosque is 10,810 sq m. The main part of the mosque stands to the west & has nine huge arches on their facade that deepen into five arches & form 45 compartments. The majestic tomb rises above the roof in a semicircle resembling the bud of a flower. This imposing mosque (the rectangle is 170m x 70 m) is incomplete, lacking in 2 minarets. Aurangzeb extended the mosque in the east, the south & the north verandah & built the eastern gate. The original gateway is on the northern side. The interior of the mosque shows restraint, except for some decorative motifs on the apexes of the arches. The heavy curtain hangs over the "Mehrab", which has domes, minarets and niches with books, flower vases & Persian writings inscribed on it.

Mehtar Mahal - This finely wrought gateway to the mosque is an excellent example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. It is embellished by a profusion of carvings in the form of brackets supporting the balconies & stone trelliswork in Hindu Style.

Taj Bawdi - This great tank was built to commemorate Ibrahim II 's first wife Taj Sultana. Its front is a majestic arch flanked by 2 octagonal towers, the east & west wings of the towers form spacious rest houses.

Asaar Mahal - It is believed to contain some relics of Prophet Mohammed. It was constructed about 1646 by Mohammed Shah., There are Landscape paintings and designs on the walls and ceiling of the hall. Women are not allowed inside.

Gagan Mahal - Ali Adil Shah I in 1561 constructed this mansion. It served as a royal palace for some time. There are three magnificent arches, the central one being the widest. The ground floor was the Durbar Hall and the first floor, now in ruins, was the private residence of the Royal family.

Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is situated in southwestern part of Karnataka. Carved against a mountainous canvas this beautiful Malnad district is full of surprises... lofty peaks... delightful dales... racing rivers... sparkling streams... captivating cascades... and the bracing mountain air - a balm to the work-weary. Climb high above the world where the mountains seem to touch the sky. Marvel at the unspoilt beauty of the snow-white coffee blossoms. To add adventure to enchantment this hilly district has some exciting trekking routes in the Western Ghats.

In Chickmagalur district, the major commercial crop is coffee. Other commercial crops are Pepper, Cashew nuts etc. Mullain Giri, the highest peak in Karnataka (viz., 6,317 feet high from Sea Level) is 12 Kms away from Chickmagalur. Number of rivers originates from the hills of Chickmagalur district and flow in all the seasons. Rivers such as, Bhadra, Tunga, Hemavathi, Netravathi & Vedavathi. Several minerals are found in the district such as iron, magnetite, granite etc. A major Iron Ore Company in Asia is located at Kudremukh in Chickmagalur district.

The district is dotted with many holy spots and abounds in legends associated with stories from the great epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Right from ancient times the numerous 'agraharas' have been lively centers of educational and cultural pursuits. Dating back to the early centuries of the Christian era are numerous epigraphs, which give a vivid pictures of the rise and fall of empires in the state.

Access
From Bangalore by Train - Route: Bangalore- Tumkur - Arshikere - Kadur. Kadur is the nearest railway station to Chickmagalur. By Express Train 3 hours running time to Kadur. From Kadur 45 minutes journey by bus/taxi to Chickmagalur. Birur is the next nearest railway station. From Birur 50 minutes journey by bus/taxi to Chickmagalur.

From Bangalore by Road (Both Private and KSRTC Buses are available) Buses are available via Bangalore
Hassan - Belur- Chickmagalur (5 hours 30 minutes / 5 hours)
Arshikere - Kadur - Chickmagalur (5 hours 30 minutes / 5 hours)

From Mysore by Road (State Transport Corporation Buses are available)
Buses are available via Mysore-Hassan-Belur-Chickmagalur (4 hours and 30 minutes)

From Mysore by Train
Trains running via Mysore - Hassan-Arsikere-Kadur (Both Passenger & Express) From Mangalore by Road (Both Private and KSRTC Buses are available) Buses are available via Mangalore - Ujire-Mudigere-Chickmagalur (4 hours and 30 minutes)

By Air Chickmagalur is accessible via Mangalore or via Bangalore or via Hubli

Accommodation

Taj Garden Retreat, Chikmagalur, Opp. Pavithra Vana, K.M. Road, Jyoti Nagar, Chikmagalur
Naveen Lodge, Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur
Prakash Lodge, Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur
Quality Inn, Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur
Padanshree Lodge, Near Taluk Office, Chikmagalur
Woodlands,Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur
Rajmahal, Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur
Vasantha Vihar Lodge, Rathanagiri Road, Chikmagalur
Usha Lodge, Malladuru Road, Chikmagalur

Places of Interest

Mahathma Gandhi Park (Rathnagiri Bore) - This is a beautifully maintained garden for entertainment of people of all walks of life. Good for jogging, walking, children's entertainment.

Baba Budan Range (Mountains) - To the north of Chikmagalur town is the Baba-Budan Range or Chandra Drona Parvatha as it was known in olden times, which has one of the highest mountain peaks between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. The loftiest point of the range is Mullaiyanagiri, which is 1,926 meters above sea level. The three large caves here said to have been sanctified by 3 Siddhas contain their icons and 'gaddiges' (tombs) and an annual jatra is held here in their honour. The enthralling scenery around makes this a much frequented pilgrim center. Seethala Mallappana Kanive to the left side is said to have been hallowed by Sidha Seethalaya and contains a Matha and the dual shrine temple of Seethala-Mallikarjuna. The Baba-Budan range has taken its name from the 1,895 meters high Baba-Budan Giri, situated just 28 kms north of Chickmagalur town. A beacon lighted here during Deepavali can be seen at Chickmagalur. The peak takes its name from the Muslim saint, Baba-Budan, who took up residence here for more than 150 years ago and brought the coffee seeds for the first time from Yemen. At a short distance from here are the three famous waterfalls with epic associations - Gada Theertha, Kamana Theertha, Nellikayi Theertha. The Pandava prince Bheema with his 'gada' created Gada theertha according to a myth, to quench the thirst of his mother during their exile. Pilgrims, who bathe in the Nellikayi Theertha formed by Manikya Dhara waterfall, leave behind one item of their clothing as per a local belief.

Inam Dattatreya Peetha - Situated on the Baba-Budan Giri is the Inam Dattatreya Peetha venerated by Hindus and Muslims alike. A laterite cave here is believed to have been sanctified by the residence of Dattatreya Swamy as well as Hazrat Dada Hayat Mir Khalander. A fakir conducts the worship here and both Hindus and Muslims attend the annual jatra or Urus with great fervour. It was Baba-Budan Giri that the first ever coffee in the country was grown way back in 1670 A.D. Enterprising Europeans pioneered large scale coffee plantations in the district more than 150 years back and to this day the sylvan slopes are studded with coffee plantations. A walk among the coffee plants, especially during the flowering season (March - April) when the air is full of the heady fragrance of coffee blossoms, is an experience to cherish. As a major coffee producer the district also has coffee curing works where the raw coffee is dried, shelled, winnowed, graded and packed for marketing. The district also houses Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) formerly known as the Coffee Experimental Station started in 1925 under the stewardship of late Dr. Leslie C. Coleman. Now spread over an area of 119.86 hectares the Institute conducts research to improve the quality of coffee.

Sringeri - Sringeri, 90 kms west of Chickmagalur town on the banks of river Tunga, is a city with epic associations. The place is said to have been named after Rishyashringa who figures in the Ramayana as the chief priest at the great sacrifice of King Dasharadha. Widely known for the Jagadguru Shankaracharya Math of the Adwaitha School of philosophy. Sringeri also has an ancient temple of Vidyashankara. Constructed on a picturesque spot parallel to the river Tunga, the temple is a fine example of artistic transition from Hoysala to Vijayanagara style. Built around 1357 A.D., the imposing granite structure encloses friezes of elephants, lions, pouranic scenes, dancers in various poses etc. and figures big and small of various Hindu gods enshrined in niches with ornamental towers. The garbha - griha has a linga called Vidyashankara installed in the memory of Guru Vidyatheertha. To the north of this temple is a more recent temple built by skilled craftsmen of the 20 the century and houses the highly venerated Sharadamba image. The new temple is built in the Dravidian style. A small 14 th century temple of Janardhana close by is attributed to the Vijayanagara period. Sringeri also has an old Jain Basadi dedicated to parshwanatha Theerthankara.

Balehonnur - 45 kms. to the north-west of the Chickmagalur town is another celebrated pontifical seat of the district. Shrimad Jagadguru Rambhapuri Veerasimhasana Mahasamstana Peeta. This Veerashaiva matta with mythical connections to Ramba, celestial dancer, as also to the giant Rambasura, is one of the five great panchacharya mathas. The Veerabadra temple attached to the matha has sturdy metallic images of Veerabhadra and Bhadrakali.

Belavadi - 25 kms south - east of Chickmagalur town and just 10 kms from the Hoysala capital of Halebeedu is Belavadi, another place in the district with historical associations. This ancient village is dotted with temples and shrines, the most outstanding of them being Veeranarayana temple - a fine specimen of Hoysala architecture.

Marle - 12 kms from Chickmagalur town, Marle is another place of antiquity noted for its temples, chief amongst them being the Chennakeshava temple dating back to 1150 A.D.

Hebbe Falls - Just 8 kms away from Kemmannugundi is Hebbe waterfalls where water gushes down from a height of 168 meters in two stages. 10 kms away is another fall called Kallahathi Falls where the water cascades down from a height of 122 meters amidst fascinating scenery. A legend associates this place with sage Agastya and the local temple in a gap between rocks, is attributed to the Vijayanagara times. A jatra of Veerabhadra is held here for three days, which attracts pilgrims from far and near.

Horanadu - Set amidst enchanting natural scenery, Horanadu is 100 kms southwest of Chickmagalur and has an ancient temple of Annapoorneshwari, which has been renovated recently. With the installation of the new image of Adi Shakthi, now the temple is called Adi-Shaktyatmaka Shri Annapoorneshwari. The place attracts lots of pilgrims who are provided free boarding and lodging by the temple.

Ayyanakere - 18 kms north-east of Chikmagalur town, this ancient tank is believed to have been constructed by Rukmangada Raya a chief of Sakrepatna. Renovated later in 1156 A.D. during the Hoysala times, this large tank situated at the eastern base of the Baba-Budan range provides irrigation facilities to about 1,560 hectares of land. On a hillock here is the Prasanna Balleshvara shrine with Hoysala sculptures of Ganapathi, Surya, Krishna, Ambika, etc.

Kalasa - The old Agrahara settlement, 92 kms south - west of Chickmagalur and situated on the banks of the river Bhadra, is surrounded by lofty hills of the Western Ghats and is looked upon as one of the pancha-kshetras on the banks of the Bhadra. Close by are the pancha theerthas, the five sacred ponds. On a small hillock here is the Kalaseshwara temple dedicated to Ishwara, with a Kshetrapala shrine nearby. The Madhawacharya Bande, a large boulder at one of the theerthas here, is supposed to have been placed by Shri Madhawacharya the founder of the Dwaitha School of philosophy. A statue of the Acharya is carved on the upper portion of the rock.

Kemmanngundi - 55 kms north from Chickmagalur town on the Baba Budan range is the scenic hill station of Kemmannugundi called K.R hills, after the Wodeyar king Krishnaraja Wodeyar - IV who made it his favourite summer camp. Situated at a height of 1434 meters and surrounded by thick green forests. K.R Hills makes and ideal health resort. Beautifully laid out ornamental gardens, salubrious climate throughout the year and the panoramic view of mountains and valleys are just a few of the attractions.

Amrithapura - 67 kms north of Chikmagalur, Amrithapura is known for the splendid Amrithapura temple built in 1196 A.D by Amriteshwara Dandanayaka, a general of the Hoysala ruler Ballala II. 20 kms. to the west of Tarikere town is Somapura, another of the pancha-kshetras on the banks of river Bhadra.

Kudremukh - 95 kms south - west of Chickmagalur town and situated on the southwest border of the district, this range meaning horse-face and overlooking the Arabian Sea, is a well-known mark for the navigators. The broad hills chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices are replete with fascinating natural beauty. Situated 1,894.3 meters above sea level, Kudremukh is rich in iron ore deposits. The Kudremukh iron ore company conducts mining operations, beneficiation and transportation of the ore as slurry through pipeline to the port at Mangalore. This has given new life to the region and has converted this isolated tract in the inaccessible Malnad into a humming modern township.

Gangamoola (Samse) - It is a hill 110 kms south - west of Chickmagalur amidst thick forests. Three important rivers, the Tunga, Bhadra and Netravathi have their origin here. A Goddes Bhagavathi shrine and a Varaha image 1.8 meters within a cave are the chief attractions. The cave is inaccessible during the monsoons.

Bhadra Wildlife Santuary - The district with dense tropical evergreen forests interspersed with lush grassy slopes is endowed with a rich and varied fauna, abundantly seen at the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, 38 kms north - west of Chickmagalur town. The sanctuary surrounded by hills has the tributaries of the Bhadra River flowing through it. The western border of the sanctuary abuts the backwaters of the Bhadra Reservoir, with a catchment area of 1,968 kms. surrounded by scenic hills and steep slopes. A diverse and exciting range in wild life is found here - bison, elephants, tiger, panther, sambhar, spotted deer, wild beer, porcupine, birds like the peacock, parrot, partridge, pigeon, etc. and reptiles such as cobra, python etc. All these wild beasts can be viewed while driving along the 150 km long roads maintained inside the sanctuary.

Coorg

A friendly warning to all concerned: One trip to Coorg (Kodagu) and it'll haunt you for the rest of your life. You might leave Coorg, but Coorg will never leave you.

That's Coorg for you, incomparable scenic beauty, lush green valleys, coffee plantations, teak wood forests & majestic mountain ranges. Add to that- a strong, brave martial race of Coorgs (Kodavas) that reveres tradition, has a distinct culture and lives life to its fullest.

Coorg is situated on the Western Ghats of Karnataka in South India. For the adventurous at heart, it is an absolute treat. There are trekking, golfing and angling (Mahaseer too!) options available. Religious trips abound on Hindu and Buddhist circuits. Family getaways can be easily arranged. You can also relax your body and mind with special Ayurvedic massages. Coorg is also as trendy and happening as its close neighbour Bangalore.

But the predominant entity here is nature at its best. Coorg is like the dreamland of the philosopher. If you're the type who likes to mingle with nature, romance in the mountains, feel the tingle of the cool and gentle breeze, watch leaves flutter in dance-like movements and hear sounds of birds fill the air, then Coorg is just the place for you.

General Information

Area : 1595 square miles/ 4102.3 sq. km
Altitude : Uneven surface- average height around 1170 meters
Climate : Pleasant Winters, warm summers, heavy monsoons
Warmest Months : March To May
Average Temperature : 13° C To 26° C
Coolest Months : December To February
Languages : Kodava-Thak, Kannada, Maliyalam, Tamil, Hindi, English
Telephone Accees Code : ++91 8272 (Madikeri), ++91 8274 (Virajpet), ++91 8276 (Somwarpet)

Home > Trip Planner > Places to Visit > Karnataka > Coorgt; Access

Places to Visit Karnataka
Coorg - Access

General Information Access Accommodation Places Of Interest

Access

Air : The nearest airports are Mangalore (135 kms) and Bangalore (260 kms).

Train : The nearest railheads are at Mysore, Mangalore and Hassan (146 kilometers).

Road : From Bangalore, there are two routes to Coorg. Both routes are almost the same distance (around 250-260 kilometers). The route via Mysore is the oft-frequented route. The stretch after Hunsur is scenic and the drive through the coffee plantations is absorbing. The other route is via Neelamangal, Kunigal, Channarayapatna, all of which are located on the National highway. After Chanrayanapatna, the state highway route takes you to your destination The bus service in Madikeri has connections to almost every place in Coorg, except Kushalnagar, for which you have to hop onto a bus to Bangalore. Alternatively, there are regular buses to Mysore, Mangalore, Hassan, Chikmagalur and Shimoga.

Distance from important cities:

Mangalore: 136 kms
Mysore: 120 kms
Bangalore: 256 kms
Hassan: 115 kms
Dharmasthala: 133 kms
Subramanya: 87 kms
Tellechery: 110 kms
Kasargod: 106 kms
Calicut: 170 kms
Cannanore: 110 kms

Accommodation

Pompei Valley Resorts
Thalathamane,
via-Madikeri-571201
Ph:08272-222909
Mobile: 94483 52909
Email: apex_farms@yahoo.com

Hotel Coorg International
Ph No 08272-229142,228071,225191.
E-mail: hcicoorg@blr.vsnl.net.in

Hotel Rajdarshan
Near Raja seat, M.G.Road,
Madikeri - 571201
Ph: 0827-229142
E-mail: hrdvij@vsnl.net

Hotel Chitra
Ph No - 08272-225662.

Hotel East-End
Ph No - 08272-229996.

Hotel Mayura Valey View
Ph No - 08272-228387

Hotel Brahmagiri Comforts
Ph No - 08272-225866, 224866

Hotel Hill View
Ph No -08272-223808.221067

Hotel Hilltown
Behind JEDI Hospital
Daswal Road
Madikeri - 571201
Ph No -08272-223801.223805.

Hotel Palace
Ph No.08272-222834

Hotel Fort View
Ph No.08272-225489

Hotel Sanman
Ph No.08272-223617

Hotel Sunanda Lodge
Ph No.08272-229924

Hotel Yathri Nivas
Ph No.08272-221394

Hotel Amritha
Jr. College Road
Madikeri - 571201
Ph: 0827-222906

Places Of Interest

Madikeri - The capital of Coorg formerly called Mercara, Madikeri is often known as the Scotland of India. It has enchanted millions of travellers with its misty hills, lush forests, coffee plantations and breath taking views. Also known for its lovely climate, Madikeri is a world record holder for the cardamom crop.

Kakkabe - Famous for being the largest producer of honey in south East Asia, though most come here for the Padi Igutappa temple. This is Coorg's most important temple and the presiding deity of the Puthari Festival. Built as a hunting lodge, the Nalnad Palace is used as a kiddies' camp, though no one will really mind you pottering around. You could also visit the honey farms.

Omkareshwara Temple - With a dome in the middle of a square lake and minarets at each corner, this is a catholic mix of Keralite, Gothic and Islamic architectural styles. Built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra.

Cauvery Nisargadhama - A great place to cuddle up for the night. This 2.5 sq. km. large island in the middle of the River Cauvery is some place to romance.

Bhagamandala & Telecauvery - At the convergence of the rivers Cauvery, the underground Sujyothi and the Kanike, the Bhangandeshwara temple here has a distinct Kerala touch. Because of the three rivers, it is also called Triveni Sangama. The serene temple has intricate carvings and a copper roof. A dip at the Triveni Sangam nearby is supposed to revive sagging spirits, but take prior permission at the temple. Every October 17, on Tulasankranama, thousands come here to swim and pray. For this is Telecauvery (meaning Head of the Cauvery), the origin of one of the seven sacred rivers. The source of this long river, which passes through two states, is on the top of the hill called Brahmagiri. It is 1535 metres above sea level. Steps lead up to the Brahmagiri peak, from where a panoramic view of Kodagu meets the visitor.

Nagarhole National Park - Though the name literally means Snake River in Kannada, there aren't too many snakes around. Created from a former raja's hunting grounds, Nagarahole is one of the best game sanctuaries in South India, providing a natural living conditions to several wild animals like elephants, tigers, panthers, rhinos and wild elephants, but one is more likely to see smaller game like gaur, deer, wild dogs and langur. Pleasantly cool round the year, it is a little difficult to reach, which makes it quieter than other parks. This in turn makes it a great place to relax. Jungle safaris are available as elephant rides.

Irpu Falls - This is more a hike than a holiday (there are people like us out there who take these differences very seriously). You could begin from behind the Rameshwarna temple, and relax at a refreshing pond halfway up the falls. Then, if you are some strange sort of enthusiastic trekker and have some spare RBC (the leeches demand that), carry on to the top.

Abbi Falls - Just 7 kilometers from Madikeri town are the Abbi Falls, as remarkable and striking a sight as you would see anywhere. The narrow road to Abbi Falls is a combination of steep ups and downs, twists and turns, wriggling through the green and dense foliage of surrounding coffee plantations. Situated on private property, a narrow pathway leads you downward to where the waterfall can be seen. As various streams congregate in the mountains above, they swell with the monsoon rains and force their way down the mountain slope. Splashing hard against the huge boulders of rock, unmindful of the crevices and hollows, the water drops at enormous speed accompanied by gushing sounds. This white wall of water creates a misty cloud with its moisture-like spray and descends into a flowing stream to perhaps join with the River Cauvery somewhere in the vicinity.

Somwarpet - If you can get off to an early start and if the sky is beautiful with the clouds, take the road to Somwarpet. This 42-kilometer, one-and-half hour drive will surely perk you up. This is the coffee heartland of Coorg. You will pass through some of the finest coffee estates you will ever see. Magnificent trees reaching up to the skies, casting much wanted masses of shade to the coffee plants. It's one great spread of continuous foliage very gloriously prepared in an extraordinary operation by Nature. Mingled with cardamom and pepper as well. Big, medium or small, they add to the already beautiful and fabulous landscape all around. Besides being the hub of coffee activity, Somwarpet's other claim to fame is the Basappa Club. Like the cold stonewalls of taverns where sailors and shipmates would gather to make merry, drink, talk and pick up some gossip, the medium and small gentlemen coffee planters, who meet here to unwind frequent the Basappa Club. Except that out here, there are no cold, stonewalls. Instead, one can have a game of Table Tennis or Snooker in this small, but compact club. And there's plenty of gossip to be picked up, as well. Apart from the popular sight seeing places, Kodagu district has a whole lot of Trekking Tracks for those who seek adventure in the wild.

Hampi and Vijayanagar

"If dreams were made out of stone, it would be Hampi"

Saint Vidyaranya established the seat of Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 A.D, with the help of his devotee disciples Hakka and Bukka. The empire later became famous for its support towards renovation/reconstruction of temples through out India. It also became renowned for re-establishment of Indian culture, its support for music, art and literature. With the prime purpose of caring for the people and their welfare, this empire stretched physically covering Karnataka, Andhra and Maharashtra and became a by-word for golden rule.

HAMPI, the seat of the famed VIJAYANAGARA empire was the capital of the largest empire in post-mogul India, covering several states. The empire reigned supreme under Krishnadevaraya, the Emperor. The Vijayanagara empire stretched over at least three states - Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. The destruction of Vijayanagar by marauding Moghul invaders was sudden, shocking and absolute. They reduced the city to ruins amid scenes of savage massacre and horrors beggaring description.

Although in ruins today, this capital city once boasted riches known far beyond the shores of India. The ruins of Hampi lie scattered in about 26 sq. km area, amidst giant boulders and vegetation. Protected by the tempestuous river Tungabhadra in the north and rocky granite ridges on the other three sides, the ruins silently narrate the story of grandeur and fabulous wealth. The splendid remains of palaces and gateways of the broken city tells a tale of men of infinite talent and power of creativity together with his capacity for senseless destruction.

Hampi has been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Hospet is the main town providing the gateway for Hampi.

How to get there

Air - The nearest airport is Bellary (74 kms) which does not have any flights at the moment. The most convenient operational airports are at Belgaum (190 kms) and Bangalore (353 kms).

Rail - Hospet is the nearest rail - head (13 kms). Hospet is linked by rail to Bangalore, Bijapur, Hubli and Guntakal.

Road - Hampi is 350 kms from Bangalore. State Transport Corporation buses ply regularly from Hospet.

Accommodation

You could use Hospet as your base to visit Hampi.

Hotel Mayura Vijayanagar, Thungabadhra Dam Hospet, Tel:08394-48270

Hotel Priyadarshini, Station Road, Hospet, Tel: 08394-48838.

Hotel Malligi, Hospet-Bellary road.

Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneswri, Kamalapur, Hampi. Tel:08394-51374

KSTDC Cottages.Tel:08394-8108

Places of Interest

Most of the ruins are along the road leading from Kamalapura to Hampi.Three kms down the road, on a commanding site, stands the temple of Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy.It is built in the Dravidian style. Strange-looking fishes and marine monsters carved along its outer walls are worth noticing. The Hampi Bazaar, 35 yards wide and nearly 800 yards long was known to be a "very beautiful street with very beautiful houses". The Virupaksha Temple rises majestically at the western end of the famous Hampi Bazaar. The temple has a 120 feet tall tower on its eastern entrance. The temple contains the shrines of Shiva, Pampa and Bhuvaneswari.Parts of this temple are older than the Vijayanagar kingdom itself. The work of this style dates back to the 11th or 12th century. Nearby is the 6.7m tall monolith of Ugra Narasimha. An inscription nearby states that it was hewn from a single boulder in 1528 during the reign of Krishnadeva Raya.

Vithala Temple Complex - The most splendid monument of Hampi is undoubtedly the Vithala Temple Complex with its 56 musical pillars. To the east of the hall is the famous Stone Chariot with stone wheels that actually revolve. In front of the shrine stands the great mantapa. Resting on a richly sculpted basement, its roof is supported by huge pillars of granite, about 15 feet in height, each consisting of a central pillar surrounded by detached shafts, all cut from one single block of stone. Several of the carved pillars were attacked with such fury that they are hardly more than shapeless blocks of stones and a large portion of the central part has been destroyed utterly. Nearby is the 'Purandra Dussehra Mantapa', which has been also declared a protected monument.

House of Victory - It was built when Krishnadeva Raya came back from his victorious expedition against the King of Orissa. The spaces between the rows of the plinth-mouldings here are most elaborately and elegantly carved. The kings of Vijayanagar used to sit on a grand throne in the House of Victory and witness the nine-day Dussehra festival. Westwards from the House of Victory, leading through two ruined gates, the path leads to the Hazara Ramaswami temple. This temple is believed to have been the private place of worship of the royal family. The chief attraction of the temple is the series of scenes from the Ramayana carved on two of the inside walls of the madtapa. The genesis of the place known today as Hampi dates back to the age of the Hindu epic Ramayana when it was the site of Kishkinda, a monkey kingdom.

King's Balance - Hampi is also full of surprises: like the King's Balance where kings were weighed against grain, gold or money which was then distributed to the poor, the Queen's Bath, a swimming pool, 50 ft.long and 6 ft.deep, with its arched corridors, projecting balconies and lotus-shaped fountains that once sprouted perfumed water, the two-storied

Lotus Mahal - shaped like a lotus flower from top, this two-story structure has beautiful arc ways set in geometric regularity. It was an air-cooled summer palace of the queen.

Elephant Stables - This huge stable, a beautiful example of Hindu-Muslim style of architecture, housed about 11 elephants in separate compartments.

Pushkarini Tank - Mahanavami Dibba: The foundation of a lion story wooden structure from which the royalty viewed Hampi with pomp, colour and revelry during the Mahanadu festival. This platform has beautiful carvings.

Mustard Ganesh - This is a 9 feet tall single stone statue which is also known as Sasivikalu Ganesha.

Noblemen's Palace - This place was recently discovered and they suspect this was for aristocrats and high-ranking officials.

Daroji Bear Sanctuary is very near Hampi. Though the sanctuary is relatively new, which began in 1994 in the eastern plains of Karnataka, it has proved to be a suitable habitat for the Indian Sloth Bears in a span of few years.

Hubli-Dharwad

The twin cities of Hubli-Dharwad are located at a distance of around 430 kms from Bangalore- the capital of Karnataka state. The climate is hot and wet during the summer and rainy seasons and pleasant during winter. The twin cities have a history behind them dating back to the Hoysala period. Dharwad is the administrative capital of the Dharwad district and Hubli serves as the commerce center. Dharwad is a quiet, pleasant, and fast growing city in the northern part of Karnataka. Together with Hubli , which is a city twenty-two kilometers away, Dharwad forms a twin city.

Dharwad is known for its prestigious educational institutions. It houses the Karnataka University, which caters to graduate and research students. Karnataka College offers educational services to students just out of high school who aspire to make a career either in the arts or the sciences. S.D.M. Engineering College a more recent addition to the list of educational institutions offers education in Engineering. Hubli has an Engineering college (B.V.B College of Engineering and Technology), the Karnataka Medical College and other institutions.

Dharwad is perhaps best known for its "Pedhas", a sweet made out of milk, and is a must-buy for any tourist visiting the city. Today, Dharwad has grown beyond its borders, with industries dotting both its northern and southern boundaries. In years ahead, it promises to be a beehive of commercial activity. The location of the city on the NH4 makes it equidistant from 2 of the most industrialised centers in the country - Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka state and Pune the 2nd most industrialised city in Maharshtra.

General Information

Population : 730,000
Temperature : Max- 39oC Min- 16oC
Rainfall : 935 mm
Telephone Access code : ++91 836

Access

Air - The airport is 8km from the center of town. Air Deccan operates flights from Hubli connecting to Bangalore.

Rail - Hubli is a major rail junction on the Mumbai to Banglore route and for trains to Bijapur and Hospet. If you are heading for Goa the No 237 Gadag to Miraj Link Express at 8.30 pm has a 2nd class three tier sleeping coach and another combined 1st and 2nd class two tier sleeping coach attached to the train, and these go all the way to Vasco Da Gama, thus avoiding the need to change at Londa. At Londa these coaches are detached from 237 and addded to the 7806 Miraj to Vasco Gomantak Express at about 3.30am

Bus - There are regular buses to Bangalore (9 hr) and Hospet (4 hr). KSRTC (five daily) and Goa Kadamba bus company buses go to Goa daily. There are also buses to Mumbai (15 hr), Mangalore (10 hr), Jog Falls, Gokarna, Mysore (10 hr), and Bijapur. Across from the bus stand are private bus companies offering deluxe buses to Goa, Bangalore, Pune, Mangalore, Mumbai, and Bijapur. Hubli has a large and busy bus station. Buses to Panaji take 11 hours and leave 3 times a day.

Accommodation

The Hans Hotel, Vidya Nagar, Hubli

Hotel Ayodhya, Opp.Central Bus Stand, Hubli

Gokul Garden Gokul Road, Hubli.30

The Hans Hotel, Vidyanagar, Hubli - 580 020

Hotel Ayodhya, Opp. Central Bus, P.B.Road, Hubli - 580 029

The Ashoka Towers Hotel (Formerly Ashok Hotel), Near Railway Terminus, Lamington Road, Hubli - 580 020

Hotel Naveen, Unkal, Pune Bangalore Road, Hubli - 580 025

Travel Inn, Hubli, Pune-Bangalore Road, Sattur, Hubli - 580 002

Places of Interest

Someshwara Temple : is one of the oldest temples just outskirts of Dharwad built in 12th century by Chalukyas, near SDM college.The temple has statues of Mahisha Mardini , Chaturbhuja Ganapati.Da Ra Bendre in one of poems said "Banthanna sanna somavara kanabekanna Someshwara ". River Shalmala takes birth near by but she flows under ground. Someshwara is a beautiful place with surrounding hills and trees and pond.

Murugha Math : This is situated on Savadatti Road. The great Sant Mrityunjaya who was the head the math, fed hundreds of students who came from villages to study at schools and colleges of Dharwad. Lord Mahantappa passed away in 1994 and now lord Shivayogiappa has taken over the deeksha of the math. Every Monday there will be lectures / music conducted in the premises of the math.

Shankara-Matha is located near JSS college off of NH4. Its architecture is new comprising tiles and ceramic statues, grass lawns. It has big peaceful meditation hall, between the two "gopuras" as you can see in the picture.

Dattatreya Temple : The God with four heads representing 4 vedas.Usually called as Dattana Gidu,Situated in Gandhi Chawk.

The Vittal Mandir : Also known as 'Vithoba devara gudi'. Constructed in 1796 by the Maratha rulers.

Vanavasi Rama Mandira : It is Temple of famous God Sri Rama Along with Sita,Laxmana & Hanuman, Situatated in Malamaddi.

Temple of Milaralinga : This temple is situated behind J.S.S College. It is one of famous temple in Dharwad built in 12th century. The building was built in style of Chalukya's architecture. However its been renovated. There is a saying that long ago Adilshahi's converted it as a mosque and again Pashwe's reconverted as Temple (The Persian stone writing, which said so is missing now). Is also called as "Milaralinga Gudda" because it's up on Hill. Out side of this temple there is a damaged Chlukya's "Shivalinga". Inside the temple there are beautifully carved stone pillars and 'garbha gudi' has idol of Chaturbhuja (having four arms) Milara holding Dhamaru, Trishul, Khadga and Kapala. Besides this idol there are sculptures of dog, Horse etc. At the center of four pillars, there is a statue of Nandi and roof has beautiful designs of lotus (Kamala). The statue of temple is so situated that first sunrays touch the statue, before daylight breaks over rest of Dharwad. There are Dargas right infront of temple, Peer Anwarsha and Moonawarsha , and every year in the month of Rajjab , Urus takes place.

Ulavi Basappana temple : Chennabasavanna and his team (disciples of Lord Basaveshwara) fled from the hostile Kalyana. On their way to the forests of ulavi they rested here. It is a big stone temple with 63 mantaps constructed by the saints of Shaiva cult. A Mela (Jatri) in August every year (Shravana Masa) celebrates the occasion. A group of people wearing colorful dresses dance in the streets of Dharwad every Monday during 'Shravana Masa'

Ganapati Temple : A small temple of Ganapati or Vighneshwara situated in KCD circle

Durgadevi Temple : A temple of the Goddess Durga. Situated near the Corporation building. There is a heavy round stone in the temple. A belief among young svhool going kids "if you lift the stone and place it back without making sound, you will pass in the exam".

Tapovan : This is the temple near the University. A great learned Saint called Kumaraswami established it. People from all over the country came here to listen to his lectures. Since his death last year his followers are maintaining it. Formarly this math was called Navakalyana math in the city and then it got shifted to Tapovan.

Renuka (Yellamma) Devi-Temple : This is a well-known temple in North Karnataka visited by pilgrims mainly from Karnataka, Maharashtra & AndhraPradesh. Yellamma temple is situated atop hill, near Soundatti in Belgaum district. The number of devotees visiting the temple is estimated to be around 30 lakhs, their number is the highest on Bharat Hunnime day. Several other famous temples situated at this holy place include Sri Jamadhagnishwar Temple, Sri Parashuram Temple, Yekhanath Joghinath temple, Ganesh temple & Sri Aanjaneya temple.

The major churches : The Roman Catholic Church St Joseph near Jubilee circle, The Basel Mission Church - Near Laxmi talkies

Mosque : The Jumma Mosque in Dharwad is main Mosque for followers of Islam in Dharwad. There are many mosques in Dharwad, Hubli and also all around Dharwad District. They all have big, tall minors and dome in the center. There are Dargas right infront of Mailaralinga temple, on Vidyagiri hill, Peer Anwarsha and Moonawarsha ,and every year in the month of Rajjab , Uruus takes place.

Mysore

Mysore was the political capital of the Wodeyar dynasty, which ruled the state of Karnataka for some 150 years till the independence of the country from the British. These kings were great patrons of art and culture and Mysore was the cultural capital of the south under the rule of the Wodeyars. The Wodeyars made the Dussehra festival, an event to showcase the rich culture and heritage of the town. Even to this date this celebration of the Dussehra, which is a 10-day celebration during the month of Oct/ Nov is a spectacular event to watch.

Mysore is a city of palaces, gardens, shady avenues and sacred temples and retains some of the charm of the old world with its many institutions that propagate Carnatic Classical music and dance.

Situated in the southern part of the Deccan Plateau, Mysore District is an undulating tableland, covered in parts by granite outcrops and fringed by verdant forests. From ancient times, this district has played a significant role in the history of South India. Mysore District is a popular tourist destination, offering several attractions ranging from the royal splendour of Mysore City and its fabulous Dasara Festival to exquisite temples, pilgrimage centres and scenic spots.

Mysore city is at 770m above sea level and 140 kms from Bangalore. Also known as the City of Palaces, Mysore retains a quaint charm that never fails to enchant.

Mysore today, is a pleasant city with an old world charm; contributed by its broad shady avenues, well laid out gardens, fine buildings and a salubrious climate.

Mysore district is 770m above the sea level having an area of 6,268 sq. kms. The district has a population of 22,81,653 (1991 census). The climate is pleasant enough, which registers normal temperature between 19?C and 30C.

Access

Air - The nearest Airport is Bangalore (139 Kms).

By Train - Mysore is connected with many trains to Bangalore. Also the prestigious luxury train, Shatabdi Express connects it to Madras.

By Road - Mysore is located 139 Kms. to the south west of Bangalore. The state highway that connects the two cities could provide a pleasant ride through rustic countryside. A bus or car ride from Bangalore would take approximately 3 hours. Seagull Travels has 4 packages covering Mysore & other places.

Accommodation

Places Of Interest

Maharaja's Palace - Designed by the English Architect, Henry Irwin, the Mysore Palace dominates the skyline of Mysore. A three storied structure in the Indo-Saracenic style built between 1897-1912, the palace has beautifully designed square towers at cardinal points, covered with domes. The Durbar Hall with its ornate ceiling and sculpted pillars and the Kalyanamantapa (Marriage Pavilion) with its glazed tiled flooring and stained glass, domed ceiling are worth noting. Intricately carved doors, the golden howdah (elephant seat), paintings as well as the fabulous, jewel encrusted golden throne (displayed during Dasara) are amongst the palace's other treasures. The walled palace complex houses the Residential Museum (incorporating some of the Palace's living quarters), temples and shrines including the Shwetha Varahaswamy temple. The palace is illuminated on Sundays, Public Holidays as well as during the Dasara Celebrations when 97,000 electric bulbs are used to illuminate it.

The Jaganmohan Palace - One of Mysore's most beautiful buildings, the Jaganmohan Palace was built in 1861 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar in a predominantly Hindu style, as an alternative retreat for the royal family. This three storied palace with stained glass shutters and ventilators, in a lovely garden setting, has since 1915, housed the Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery. This museum displays paintings, sculptures and musical instruments. This gallery has a collection of exquisite paintings dating back to 1875. The collection includes paintings by Travancore Ruler, Raja Ravi Varma, the Russian Svetoslav Roerich and the traditional Mysore gold leaf style of painting.

Chamundi Hills - A prominent landmark, located at the outskirts of the city, Chamundi Hills can be reached by a 13 kms motorable road or 1000 steps built by the Wodeyars. At the crest of this hill is Sri Chamundeshwari Temple that dates back to the 11th century. The striking gopura (Pyramidal Temple tower) was added by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar-III in 1825-1826. Goddess Chamundi was the patron deity of the rulers. Near the temple is the statue of Mahishasura, the demon slayed by the goddess Chamundeshwari. Half way up the stone steps, is the 4.8 meter high monolith of Nandi, Lord Shiva's mount.

St. Philomena's Church - This is a beautiful gothic structure with twin spires, 175ft. in height, is modelled on the gothic Cathedral at Cologne. Designed by French architects, the foundation stone was laid by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar-IV in 1933. The stained glass windows made in France, overlooking the apse, showing the Birth of Christ, Baptism of Christ by St. John the Baptist, the Last Supper and the Crucifixion of Christ are works of art. The altar bears the statue of St. Philomena, a third century saint from Greece.

The Mysore Zoo - Sri Jayachamarajendra Zoological Gardens, popularly known as the Mysore Zoo was established in 1892 under the reign of Chamarajendra Wodeyar. Large collections of animals, including exotic species, are housed in lush green surroundings. This zoo is famous for breeding some rare animals in captivity.

Brindavan Gardens - 19 kms North of Mysore is the famous reservoir Krishnarajasagara. This Dam is built across the river Cauvery. Just below the Dam, the beautiful Brindavan Gardens are laid out. There are varieties of fountains, illuminated at night by colourful lights. The Musical fountain is of special interest which has spectacular harmony of water, colours and music.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary - Ranganathittu, 18 kms from Mysore, is a Bird Sanctuary that houses exotic birds. It is a group of small islands in the Kaveri River. It is home to a variety of waterbirds, including comorants, herons, egrets and spoonbills, many of whom migrate here annually from Siberia and North America, to nest and breed. Crocodiles basking in the sun are also a familiar sight. Best season to visit this place is May-Sept/Oct.

Somanathapura Temple - The Keshava Temple, located 42 kms from Mysore, was built in 1268 as part of an agrahara (scholastic community) founded by the Hoysala General Somanatha Dandanayaka. The temple is famous for its elaborate detail and for the fact that unlike the other Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid, it was actually completed. This beautiful temple is enclosed within a walled courtyard, which is entered through a gate and porch. The temple is built on an elevated star shaped platform. The sides of the raised platform are richly adorned with carved freizes depicting rows of cavalry, elephants and stories from the epics. Above these is a row of large images, mainly of Vishnu in various forms. The triple-shrined (Trikutachala) monument has three sanctums, of which the north sanctum bears the image of Janardhana, the south sanctum that of Venugopala.The main hall has beautifully turned pillars and ceiling panels. Sadly the image of Keshava that was in the main hall is missing.

Shimoga

Shimoga district covers an area of about 10548 sq. kms. The western part of the district has superb tropical forests and some very pretty hilly areas. The eastern region is less dense but has several lakes and river valleys. The traveller to this district can enjoy trekking on the challenging landscape and visit to the historically rich spots.

The region has a long and colourful history dating back to the 3rd century AD when it was under the control of Satavahana dynasty.

In the 6th century it was a part of the empire of the Chalukyas of Badami. In the 7th century, it came under the rule of Jaina chieftain.

General Information

Location : 165 kms From Mangalore, Karnataka
Season : October to February
Languages : Kannada, Hindi and English
Local Transport Cycle Rickshaws, Tongas, City Bus Service

Access

Nearest Rail-head Shimoga
Nearest Airport Mangalore
Road Distances Mangalore(165 kms)

Shimoga - Accommodation

List of Guest Houses/Inspection Bungalows
APMC Guest House 2250338
Circuit House 2257751, 2257750
DCC Bank Guest House 2222396
MAMCOS Guest House 2256513
RMC Yard Guest House 2223834
Forest Guest House 2250982
M.P.M Guest House 2666318
VISL Guest House 2666321
B.R.P Guest House 2635231
UAS, Navile 2222884
Tungabhadra Guest House 2270595
K.E.B Guest House 2271100
Sagar Taluka IB 2326275

Shimoga - Places of Interest

Temples & Histrolical Monuments

Ballegavi - This historical place is situated 21 Kms from Shikaripura taluka. This place is also known, as Dakshina Kedara was the capital of Banawasi rulers in the 12th century. The place is associated with several eminent Veershaiva saints like Allama prabhu, Akka-Mahadevi, Animishayya and Ekantada Ramayya. There are remains of many temples, shrines, mastikals, viragals and nisidigals. Some important temples are Kedareshvara temple made out of soap stone and is a fine specimen of late Chalukyan type, Tripurantakeshvara temple resembling the works of Belur and Halebedu, Prabhudeva temple is a smaller trikutchala structure, etc.

Keladi - was the first capital of Keladi Nayakas. The place is 6 Kms to the north of Sagar taluka. At almost the northern end of the village, there is a large courtyard, which is enclosed, in modern tiled verandah. In the middle of the courtyard stand 3 temples Rameshvara temple, which is in the centre, Veerbhadreshvara temple, which is to the right, and the Parvati temple, which is to the left. The Rameshvara & Veerbhadreshvara temples are a mixed pattern of Hoysala & southern or Dravidian style. The Parvati temple is a small building, which has old back portion built of stone and the front modern portion built of brick. There is also a well-maintained Keladi Museum, which has a collection of copper inscriptions, palm leaves and coins from Nayaka's period.

Ikkeri - situated 76 Kms to the north of Shimoga and about 3 kms to the south of Sagar taluka. The word means "Two Streets". This place was the capital of Keladi Nayakas for some years. The walls of the city were of great extent, forming three concentric enclosures. In the citadel was the palace build of mud and timber, adorned with carvings and false gildings. The only vestige of the former greatness of Ikkeri is the temple of Aghoreshvara, a large and well-proportioned stone building, constructed in a mixed style with a unique conception.

Koodali - 16 Kms from Shimoga, a place where rivers Tunga and Bhadra embrace and flow together. Koodali is a cultural place with rich heritage and temples around. It has the noted Smartha Monastery stated to have been founded in the 16th century by Jagadguru Narsimha Bharathi Swamigalu of Sringeri. Within the premises of the matha, there are shrines of Sharadamba and Shankaracharya. Outside, there are two temples of Hoysala times dedicated to Rameshvara and Narasimha. Koodali is also known as Varanasi of the south, it is home to Rushyashrama, Brahmeshwara, Narasimha and Rameshwara temples. The 600 years old mutt of Shankaracharya still stands with inscriptions of Hoysala and Okkeri Kings.

Chandragutti - situated in between Soraba taluka and Siddapura. The histrolical place and pilgrimage centre of Renukamba. The place was earlier known as Chandragupta Pura, Chandragutti pete, Gutti pete. 16 Kms from Soraba taluka, 848 mtrs above mean sea level on a rocky mountain bed one can find this place.

Humcha - 54 kms from Shimoga city is a renowned Jain Pilgrimage centre. The main attraction of Humcha is the Padmavathi Amma's temple. The Panchakuta Basadi (Jain temple) of 10th & 11th Century and Jain Mutt are other places of interest.

Bhadravathi - The Lakshminarsimha temple, built by the Hoysalas in the heart of the town and the Rameshwara temple built on the banks of the river Tunga attract pilgrims from all parts of Karnataka and other states. Pilgrims frequent here for a darshans and a holy dip in the river. Bhadravathi is also most prominent Industrial centre in Shimoga district. The renowned Sir M Vishweshwaraiah Iron & Steel factory, The Mysore paper Mills and Sugar Factories were harbingers of Karnataka's industrial development.

Nagara - A 16th century place situated 19 Kms from Shimoga. This was also known as "Beendanoor"in the 16th century. This place was also capital of Keladi rulers and later on was captured by Hyder Ali. Other places of interest are Shivappanaika palace, Neelakenteshwara temple, Devagana tank and Gudde Venkataramana Swamy temple.

Bandalike - 35 Kms to the north of Shikaripura, a place famous for basadis and temples is Bandalika. Here you can find sculptures and writtings of Rastrakutas and Kadambas period. Other places of interest are Shantinath basadi, Sahasralinga Temple and Someshwara threemurthy temples.

Shivappa Naik Palace - Situated on the banks of river Tunga in the busy lanes of Shimoga city. Shivappa Naik of Keladi built the 16th century palace. A good architectural piece built with rose wood, the palace is equipped with a museum, which has several interesting and rare archaeological collections of stone carvings and antiques of Keladi period. Recovered idols of Hoysala and Chalukya period from the early 16th century to late 18th century are displayed here.

Saint Thomas Church - Situated in the heart of city. The church renovated and said to be the second largest church in India with an area of 18000 square feet area. Also equipped with a prayer hall with a capacity to hold 5000 people at a time.

Other Places of Interest -

Kanoor fort - situated in the dense forest 50 kms from Jogfalls on the way to Bhatkal. This Fort of Keladi dynasty was constructed by Kari Maneesena Rani Abbaka Devi (Spices queen).

Kavaledurga: This magnificent fort on a hill is 16 Kms from Thirthahalli.

Kubetoor: 25 Kms from Sorab is Kubetoor, has several old temples known for their architectural splendour, though now in a dilapidated condition, it still exemplifies the aesthetic sense of the dynasties that reigned. The Veerabhadra and Durgi are worth a visit. The Kedarashewara Temple is a Chalukyan architectural showpiece.

Talagunda: 5 Kms from Balligave lies Talagunda. Several ancient inscriptions are found here. The Pranseshwara temple is a must see. To the east of Talagunda is "Prabhudeva Gaddige".

Heggadu - 8 Kms from Sagar, a small village known for its Non-Government Drama training institute called NEENASAM initiated by K.V.Subanna. The institute is well equipped with an indoor auditorium known as 'Dr. Shivarama Karantha Rangamandira'. Regular workshops and training sessions, finds the place populated by renowned artists from all over the country.

Around Shimoga city - Ganapathi Devasthana located in Ramanna Shreste Park, Basaveshwar Temple located in Gandhi Bazar, Marikamba Devasthana , Kannika Parmeshwari etc are other temples located within the city limits. And it is said that there are 21 or more Ganapathi devasthanas around Shimoga city.

Water Falls & Dams

Jog Falls - The most thrilling spectacle in the entire western region of Karnataka are the world famous Jog Falls. Location - It is situated on the borders of Shimoga and North Kanara, 100 Kms from Shimoga city. The wondrous sight is that of river Sharavathi taking a spectacular leap into the chasm from a height of 900 feet to from the highest waterfalls in India. The river Sharavathi hurtles in 4 distinct cascades. The first of these falls is known as the 'Raja' - the grandest, an unbroken sheet of water, the Raja plunges into the vapour-shrouded pool 900 feet below. A few 100 feet way down, with a thunderous gush, 'Roarer' joins Raja. Leaping down with great speed in a series of cascades in the 'Rocket'. And gliding away in a feminine grace,'Rani'. The effect is greatly heightened by the wild and beautiful region around which is covered with a wealth of luxuriant vegetation. The steps cut into rocks will lead you to the very depths of the fall and shower you with vaporous spray that bounces off these rocks.

Around Jog - There is also the splendid view of the Linganamakki dam, which is 1819 feet above sea level built across the river Sharavathi. This dam is the main feeder reservoir of the Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric project in Shimoga.

Transport - The place is well connected by rail and road from Shimoga city and number of government & private buses ply between Shimoga and Jog Falls.

Best season to visit - July-January
Accomodation
Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa (KSTDC)
Jogfalls
Phone - 08186-344732
PWD Inspection Bungalow
Phone - 08186-344333

Vanake-Abbey Falls - Most common name given to waterfalls around karnataka. Shimoga is also proud to have one falls called abbey falls. The falls are situated 4 Kms away from Agumbe, The sunset point in Thirthahalli Taluka. Lush green trees and natural beauty surround the falls.

Achakanya Falls - 10 Kms from Thirthahalli on the way to Hosanagar near Aralsuruli you can find this eye catching waterfalls. The river Sharavathi takes a spectacular leap here to form this wonderfull falls.

Hidlamane Falls - This falls is situated near Nittur in Hosanagar Taluka. To reach the falls you have to trek the rocky hills surrounded by dense lush trees. Don't forget to carry your foodstuff.

Tunga Anecut -10 Kms from Shimoga city on the way to Thirthahalli, you can find a place called Gajanur. The Tunga dam is situated here. An ideal picnic spot for the people around. Presently the dam is closed for general public as the dam height is being increased and construction work is going on.

B.R.P Dam - Located 28 Kms from Shimoga city near Kuvempu university. The dam is constructed across river bhadra and the height of the dam is 194 ft. There are a number of islands created by the Bhadra river and you can enjoy the boat ride around this islands.

Linganmakki Dam - 6 Kms from Jog falls this dam is constructed across river Sharavathi. The height of the dam is 1819 ft above sea level. Linganmakki dam is the main feeder reservoir for the Mahatma Gandhi Hydro Electric Power unit.

Hill Station & Adventure

Agumbe - The spectacular sunset point.

Location - on the way to Udupi, 35 kms from Thirthahalli falls a small place with big name called AGUMBE. It is situated at 2725 ft above sea level.

Agumbe is also known as the "Cherrapunji" of South India because this place receives the highest rainfall in South India. This place attracts tourists during the summer and winter season because of its glorious sunset. Dense lush green forests, small streams and ghats surround the place. The place finds its charm at the time of sunset, the sun sets with different hues, colors, shapes.

Transport: To reach Agumbe you can catch any bus to Thirthahalli or bus to Udupi.

Best Season to Visit: November to May

Kodachadri - A glorious and enchanting mountain provides the perfect escape from the hectic pace of the humdrum of everyday life. Paradise for trekkers, the place attracts lot of trekkers around Karnataka state. Kodachadri is situated at 1411 ft above sea level and 115 kms from Shimoga city. A beatific hill abode that overlooks the panoramic Western Ghats. It is clothed with splendid evergreen forests. The first portion of the hill is very steep and difficult to ascend. On the west, the hill descends almost perpendicular for about 4026 ft, meeting the South Kanara forests that lie below. The sea appears quite close, and on clear day, you can also see the ships go by. The famous temple town of Kollur is 12 Kms away. The steep hills challenge the trekkers for an adventurous trekking experience. Reaching the hilltop makes you feel on top of the world.

Kundadri - On the way to Agumbe from Thirthahalli, 9 kms from Guddekeri near Begar you can find Kundadri hill. An adventurous place for trekking lovers. You can reach the hilltop by tar road also but it's a shaking experience if you walk up the mountain using the shortcut route. On reaching the top you can find the Parshwanath Chaityalaya, a stone structure. Kundadri hill is in fact a single gigantic monolithic rock formation with various outgrowths. A rough stone paved path leads one to the top of the hill. From the hill top you can see the twists and turns of the Thirthahalli-Agumbe road. This place is also a jain pilgrimage centre. Packing some light refreshments and moving on to ascend the hill would be a great idea.

Honnemaradu - About 25 Kms from Sagar town on the way to jog falls, a adventure place by name Honnemaradu welcomes the adventure loving people. The place is situated on the backwaters of Sharavathi River. The place maintained by Adventurers, Bangalore. You can enjoy Kayaking, wind water surfing and all other water sports. On payment of small amount you get accommodation, food and water sport equipments. One important point to be noted before visiting this place is not to carry any Alcohol, Gutka, and Non-Veg items. All this items are banned in this place.

Tyarekoppa Lion Safari: 10 Kms from Shimoga enroute Sagar town Lions, Tigers and other wild life animals roam around in the deep forests freely. The lion-tiger safari started way back in 1988 is an ideal picnic spot. The safari is spread around an area of 200 Hectares of dense forest. You can witness to the grace, diversity, colour and marvel of nature and catch enlivening glimpses of Lions, Tigers, Cheetah, Bear, Deer, and rare migratory birds as they amble around in luxuriant habitat. Regular recreation and sight seeing outings are organised by the forest department for visitors.

Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp: On the way to Thirthahalli from Shimoga, 14 kms away from the city you can hear elephants reciting their lessons. Yes its not a joke its fact that you can find here many elephants being trained by training professionals. Elephant from the adjoining forests bathe at this spot before they re-enter their forest abode. Every morning these majestic creatures waddle down to waters and after playfully cleansed their bodies and satiated their thirst, they leave the waters before the rays of the sun get stronger. They are off to deal with their day's routine only to return the following day. To catch a glimpse of these mammoths at play in the waters, get there before 9 a.m.

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary: 32 Kms from Shimoga city on the way to Thirthahalli you can hear the birds tweeting. This place is picnic spot for birds migrating from far places around the world. The place is surrounded by dense lush green forest and the flow of river Tunga has created a small island, which adds to the beauty. The dense trees on the island provide shelter to migrating birds. Birds like Egrets, Bellakki Cormorant, Darter, Snake bird etc immigrate from different parts of the world during may season for breeding A high platform is built on the edge of river Tunga for bird watching. Boats are available for a closer watch.

Guduvi Bird Sanctuary: This bird sanctuary is unique for many reasons but is the only sanctuary located in the midst of dense forest. Guduvi is one of the 5 famous bird sanctuaries of Karnataka. The place is 16 Kms from Soraba taluka of Shimoga district. This bird sanctuary is spread over an area of 73.68 Hectares. As per 1993 survey, it is told that 191 varieties of birds are found at this place. A natural lake and the trees gives shelter to these birds. Some important birds found are White Pebis, Stone Bill, Egret, Cormorant, Snake bird, Heron etc. Different birds come from other parts of the world in different seasons for breeding. A platform is built for a closer look of birds.

Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna is an island town encircled by river Cauvery. The temple of Lord Sriranganatha is said to have been built by the Chieftain Thirumalaiah in 894 AD. This was once the capital of Hyder Ali & his son Tipu Sultan, "The Tiger of Mysore". In the 18th century, Marathas attacked Srirangapatna & forced heavy payments. Hyder drew back the Marathas & saved the Kingdom. In 1799 Tippu fought a fierce Battle (Battle of Mysore) against the British & fell bravely defending his capital. Srirangapatna remains in a ruined state recalling the Battles fought & the past glory.

Access

Air - Bangalore which is 123 Kms is the nearest Airport.

Rail - The nearest railhead is Mysore, which is connected to other major junctions like Bangalore, Hassan & Arsikere.

Road - Srirangapatna is connected to Mysore (16 Kms) & Bangalore (123 Kms).

Accommodation

Ambelee Hotel Resort
Tel: 91-8236-52326

Hotel Mayura River View
Srirangapatna, Mandya

Fort View Resorts Pvt. Ltd.
Near Check Post, Bangalore-Mysore, Highway, Srirangapatna

Places of Interest

Sriranganatha Temple - This is one of the largest temples in the State & is of great local importance. Its God has given the town His name. It consists of a Mahadwara with a huge tower & a pillared hall built in three or four different stages, Sukanasi & Garbhagriha. There are many other shrines inside the enclosure. Inside the Garbhagriha (Cell) is a colossal image of Vishnu reclining on the huge coils of the great snake Anantha.

Daria Daulat Bagh - Tipu Sultan's Summer palace built in 1784 was his favorite retreat. Made of teak, this Indo - Saracenic structure has ornate and beautiful frescoes. It is now a museum and tells eloquent stories of Tipu's valor and his loosing battle with the British.

The Gumbaz - Here lie the bodies of Hyder, his wife & Tippu. It is an imposing structure in the midst of the lovely Lal-bagh garden, with a high rise platform & having a verandah of polished black basalt pillars all round. The other things of importance are the other dungeons, gates of the fort & flag-staff cavalier, Tippu's racket court etc.

Dungeons - Situated to the East of the Delhi Gate at a distance of 150 yards. The Dungeons are hidden by the view of the passers by, with a large oblong bastion in the fort wall.

Place of Tipu's Death - It is at a distance of about ? km to the northeast of the Ranganatha Temple.

Jumma Masjid - Situated close to the Bangalore Gate.

Tipu's Palace - About 150 yards east of the Ranganatha Temple is now to be seen the mound & ruined walls of the Lal Mahal which was once a magnificent palace inhabited by Tipu.

Fort - It is from here that Tipu started his attack against the British. An obelisk in the fort marks the place where he fell - betrayed by his own men. The fort holds within it a mosque and the Ranganathaswamy Temple. Outside the fort is the Gumbaz, Tipu's tomb with splendid ebony door inlaid with ivory.

Old Masjid - Situated to the West of the Railway Station.

Delhi Gate & Bridge - Situated at a distance of about ? km to the East of the Railway Station.

Jibi Gate - This is a small passage in the footwall leading from the temple area to the river.

Swinging Arch - Situated to the South of the temple at a distance of 100 yards. It is 122 feet in span & 3 feet in width. Now it has fallen down.

Narasimha Temple - Situated to the south east of Ranganatha temple at a distance of 100 yards.