Bhadravathi
Bhadravathi is an industrial town in the Shimoga District of Karnataka state,
Shikaripura
Shikaripura is a town and taluk headquarters of Shikaripura Taluk of Shimoga district in the state of
This is B. S. Yeddyurappa's costituency.
Shikaripura is also famous for the
Hosanagara
Hosanagara is a panchayat town in Shimoga district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is nested in western ghats of
Sagara
Sagara is a town located in the district of Shimoga of the Indian state of Karnataka. Located within the Western Ghats range, it is known for its proximity to
Sagara derives its name from Sadashiva Sagara, which is a lake. Sadashiva Nayaka, ruler of Keladi dynasty built a lake in between Keladi and Ikkeri. The
Sagara is surrounded by places of historical importance and natural beauty including the
Keladi
A Shiva temple of historical importance is located here. It is located at a distance of 6 km from the town. One has to take a diversion at
Ikkeri
This place is of historical importance due to the presence of a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. One has to take a diversion at
Kalasi
This is another historically important place with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at a distance of 8 km from the town and one has to travel along
Varadapura (Varadahalli/Vaddalli)
This place is situated 6 km from the town where one has to take a diversion from
Honnemaradu
Honnemaradu is situated on the banks of the backwaters of the Sharavathi river. A big water mass extends up to the Chakra dam. It is about 25 km from Sagara town towards Jog and 10 km from Talaguppa. Indian Institute For Adventure Applications is a training institute situated here which uses adventure as a platform for learning.
Holebaagilu
Holebaagilu is situated on the banks of the
Sigandooru
Sigandooru is a holy place of Goddess Chaudeshwari. A large
The world famous
Soraba
Soraba is a panchayat town in Shimoga district in the Indian state of Karnataka.
Sorab derives its name from its earlier name Surabhipura meaning Town of
Soraba is also nearest town to Banavasi other than Sirsi, Karnataka which was capital of Kadambas during 9th century and is more of historical interest to many enthusiasts who come under archeological survey.
Shimoga travel guide
Shimoga is located on the north western cost of Karnataka. It shares boundary with Uttara Kannada in the north, Udupi in the south and south west and Chikmagalur in the south, Davangere in the east and Haveri in the north and north-east.
District Headquarter: Shimoga
Distance: 274 km from Bangalore, 180 km from Mangalore and 205 km from Hubli
Journey time: Around 6 hours from Bangalore by bus or train.
How to reach there: On can reach there by bus, train or private vehicle. There are numerous buses available through out the day and late night from KSRTC bus stand Majestic.
Route: Bangalore – Tumkur – Birur – Kadur – Arsikere – Bhadravati – Shimoga (NH 206)
Where to stay:
1. Jewel Rock Hotel
Durgigudi, Shimoga
2. Vihangama Holiday Retreat, Bharathipura Post, Thirthahalli Taluk,Shimoga Dist. 577432
3. Hotel Mathura Residency
Mathura Arcade,
Balraj Urs Road,
Shimoga
4. Hotel Sundar Ashraya
Thirthahally Road,
Shimoga
5. Hotel Surya Comforts
Shimoga
6. Hotel Sanman Lodge
Garden Area, 3rd Cross
Nehru Road,
Shimoga
Where to eat:
Language spoken: Kannada, Hindi and English understood in the urban areas.
The name Shimoga is derived from two words Shiva (Lord Shiva) and Mukha (Face), meaning face of Shiva. In 2006, the erstwhile JDS government changed the name to Shivamoga. The lanscape of Shimoga is very beautiful with lush green forests, hills and water falls. The main occupation apart from the urban areas are agriculture. The present CM of Karnataka hails from Shimoga. A new airport is under construction there.
What to see:
1. Jogg Falls: Jog falls is the highest water falls in India formed by river Sharavathi falling from a height 253 meters (829 ft). It also know by other names like Gerusoppe falls, Gersoppa Falls and Jogada Gundi in Kannada. It located around 100 km from Shimoga city at the border of Shimoga and north Kannada district.The river breaks down into four distinct falls viz. Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer.
It is here the first hydro electric power generation started in Asia. At power generation takes place from Linganmakki Dam on river Sharavathi. The power station was earlier known as Krishna Rajendra hydro-electric project, later renamed as Mahatma Gandhi hydro-electric Project.
Best season to visit: July to September
Where to stay:
1. Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa (KSTDC)
Jogfalls
Phone : 08186-344732
2. PWD Inspection Banglow
Phone : 08186-344333
2. Tyarekoppa Lion Safari: Tyarekoppa Lion Safari comes on the way to Sagar town around 10 km away from Shimoga town. Here one can sight Lions, Tigers, Cheetah, Bear, Deer, and rare migratory birds in lush green deep forest.
3. Tunga Anecut: The Tunga dam, over river Tunga is located 10 km from Shimoga town on the way to Tirthahalli at Gajanur. It is a nice picnic spot.
4. Achakanya Falls: Achakanya Falls is formed when river Saravathi takes big leap. It is located around 10 km from Thirthahalli on the way to Hosanagar near Aralsuruli.
5. Hidlamane Falls: Hidlamane Falls is located near Nittur in Hosanagar Taluka. To direct motorable roads are available. One need to trek through lush green forest to reach there.
6. B.R.P Dam: This dam was constructed on river Bhadra around 29 km from Shimoga city near Kuvempu university. A number of small islands created by river Bhadra here. It is nice romantic place ideal for picnic and boat rides.
7. Vanake-Abbey Falls: Abbey falls is located 4 km away from Agumbe. The falls is surrounded by green forest.
8. Agumbe: Agumbe is one of the popular sunset point in Karnataka. Agumbe receives the highest rainfall in Karnataka and also known as Chirapunjee of Karnataka. It is located around 35 km from Thirthahalli on the way to Udupi and is 2725 ft above sea level. Agumbe is home to the only Rainforest Research Station in Indian in the form of Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. Agumbe is also known for its abundant sights of King cobra.
There are a number of falls to see:
1. Kunchikal Falls: This falls is formed by river Varahi.
2. Barkana Falls: This falls is formed by river Seeta.
3.Onake Abbi Falls
4. Jogigundi
Route: Bangalore – Tumkur (NH-4) – Shimoga (NH-206) – Thirthahall (NH-13)
Distance: 380 km from Bangalore
Best Season: November to May
Website: http://www.agumbe.com/
9. Kodachadri: Kodachadri is located around 114 km from Shimoga city and situated above 1411 ft above sea level. Kodachadri is very popular with trekkers. The steep rising hill pose a challenge to trekkers. I advise one should have certain experience in trekking to try trekking here. It is beautiful hill covered with lush green forest and gives panoramic view. One can hire a jeep to the hill or go for shared one.
10. Kundadri: On the way to Agumbe from Thirthahalli, 9 kms from Guddekeri near Begar you can find Kundadri hill. A adventurous place for trekking lovers. You can reach the hill top by tar road also but its 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.
11. Honnemaradu: Honnemaradu is a adventure sports site. Situated on the back waters of river Saravathy, it offers Kayoking, wind water surfing and various water sports. Accomodation, food and water sports equipment available on payment. It is located around 25 km from Sagar town on the way to Jog falls.
Mote: Alcohol, Gutka, Non-Veg items are not allowed.
12. Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp: Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp is located around 14 km from Shimoga city on the way to Thirthahalli. Here elephants are being trained. Also, elephants come to bath every morning and can have their playful sight bu coming here before 9 am.
13. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary: 32Kms 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 provides 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 .
14. 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 this birds. Some important birds found are White Pebis, Stone Bill, Egret, Cormorant, Snake bird, Heron etc. Different birds immigrate from other parts of the world in different seasons for breeding. A platform is built for a closer look of birds.
15. Ballegavi : Ballegavi is a place of historical importance located around 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.
16. 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.
17. Ikkeri : situated 76 Kms to the noth 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 guildings. 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.
18. Koodali : 16 Kms from Shimoga , a place where rivers Tunga and Bhadra embrace and flow together from here, hence the name Koodali. A cultural place with rich heritage and temples around. It has a 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.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. 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 darshans of 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.
22. 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.
23. 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.
24. Shivappa Naik Palace :Situated on the banks of river tunga in the busy lanes of Shimoga city. A 16th century place built by Shivappa naik of Keladi. A good architectual piece built with rose wood. The palace is equipped with 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.
25. Saint Thomas Church : Situated in the heart of city. The church renovated and said to be second largest church in India with an area of 18000 square feet area . Also equipped with an prayer hall with an 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: 5056 ft above sea level is this magnificent fort on the hill. It 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.
Koodli is the place where two rivers, the Tunga River and Bhadra River, meet to give rise to the Tungabhadra River.
# Kaveladurga is a trekking spot around 80 km from Shimoga.A fort built on the hill top and the enchanting view of the western ghats can be seen from this place.
# Mrugavadhe lies in thirthahalli taluk and is famous for its Mallikarjuna temple and its scenic beauty.
# Sigandhooru is 108 km from Shimoga in Sagar taluk.This place is famous for Sigandhoor sridevi temple and to reach this place one has to go in launch(Due to backwaters of sharavathi river) run by the state government.
# Sringeri is 105 km from shimoga.This place is famous for the Sharadha temple and sringeri mutt.
In Shimoga:
Gandhi park with aquarium, Guddekal temple, Kote anjeneya temple, Bheemeshwara temple, Mailareshwara temple, Raamanna Shreshti park Ganesha Temple, Ravindra Nagar Prasanna Ganesha Temple,Laxmi temple(vinobanagar) Shankar Mutt are notable ones and Basaveshwara temple in gandhi bazaar, Shivalaya beside veerashaiva kalyana mantapa, veerabhadreshwara temple.
Gajanur dam
Gajanur is a village 12 km from Shivamogga in the Shivamogga District of Karnataka, India. The Tunga River India
Birth Place of river Sharavathi
The Sharavathi is a river flowing through Karnataka state, India. The river originates at Ambuthirtha in Thirthahalli taluk, flows north-west through the Western Ghats forming the Jog Falls before joining the Arabian Sea at Honavar.
The hydroelectric power plants, Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric Power Station and the Sharavati Valley Project, are built on this river. These form a significant portion of the electricity supply for the state of Karnataka in India.
The Sharavathi river basin is rich in biodiversity. In a survey conducted in the basin, 23 amphibians belonging to the families of Bufonidae, Ichthyophiidae, Microhylidae, Ranidae and Rhacophoridae were recorded. Out of these 23 amphibians, 15 species are endemic to the Western Ghats.
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The hydroelectric power plants, Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric Power Station and the Sharavati Valley Project, are built on this river. These form a significant portion of the electricity supply for the state of Karnataka in India.
The Sharavathi river basin is rich in biodiversity. In a survey conducted in the basin, 23 amphibians belonging to the families of Bufonidae, Ichthyophiidae, Microhylidae, Ranidae and Rhacophoridae were recorded. Out of these 23 amphibians, 15 species are endemic to the Western Ghats.
Sanskrit speaking village of shimoga
 Scholars all: A new generation grows up speaking Sanskrit. A first-timer would love to classify Mathur, about 10 km from Shimoga in Karnataka, as yet another “sleepy village with lush green fields’. But, there is more to this village than stately arecanut farms, winding roads and friendly people. For more than 25 years now, the village has been in the forefront of a movement to keep spoken Sanskrit alive. And, you notice the difference from the minute you step into the village. “Suprabhatam!” greets M.B. Srinidhi, Karnataka South Secretary, Samskruta Bharathi. He is one of those spearheading the spoken Sanskrit movement. And, when he breaks into Sanskrit with spontaneous ease, you know he is not speaking just for effect “Tvam Kutra Gacchati?” (Where are you going?), he asks a fellow villager. “Aham Gramam Gachchami,” (I am going to the village) he replies. “Saavadhanena Gacchati,” (Be careful!) wishes Srinidhi before walking us around the village, home to over 3,000 people. Tradition-bound There is a slight drizzle in the air. But that does not deter the many scholars in the area from heading to the temple, a jar of holy water in hand. En route, Srinidhi happily converses with a two-year-old in Sanskrit, and she lisps back one-word replies without a second thought. The seed for change was sown in 1982, when the organisation got together a 10-day programme to teach the villagers spoken Sanskrit. And, people in this primarily agricultural society eagerly took part in the unique experiment. Now, Sanskrit has become the primary tongue for many of the residents. In the local Sharada Vilasa High School, Sanskrit is compulsory till Class VII. It is the first language from Classes VIII to X. So, the present generation too has learnt to speak it. And, it is not as if the village has not kept in touch with modernity. More than 150 of its young men and women are in IT and work outside. But, they have managed to retain their core values, says Srinidhi. The routine that has been absorbed by most minds from childhood may be a reason for this. Most of the villagers wake up at 4.30 a.m., bathe in the river, perform their daily puja and then tend to the fields rich with paddy and arecanut. The evenings are devoted to reciting the Vedas and other prayers. Sanathkumara, another scholar, who has done his doctorate in ancient Hindu law, says the values learnt at home are not forgotten easily. Which is why Srinidhi is sure that the forthcoming marriage of a girl brought up in London to a local boy working in Bangalore will be a success. Was it easier following the cause because they did not have to worry about bringing food to the table? “Yes. The fields have helped. But, what has really helped is the support our women give us at home,” he says. Linguistic heritage This village and the neighbouring Hosahalli are mainly populated by Sanketis, who speak Sanskrit at home. And, it is not just them who speak the language. The village has a fair share of people from other communities, and all of them are exposed to Sanskrit. Local teachers attribute the fluency to the dedication with which a “new language’ was learnt. Take Keerthana, Srinidhi’s daughter. She uttered her first word in Sanskrit when she was just two. And, though all she said was “maastu” (no), her father was delighted. “I like speaking in Sanskrit. It is part of my heritage, and I think we should not let it perish,” she states. Part of the reason for such devotion to the language may be that her father has made it a point to speak to her only in Sanskrit. And, surprisingly, the onslaught of television has not made a huge dent in the kids’ enthusiasm. You believe Ashwathanarayana Avadhani, headmaster of Samskruta Patshala, when he says that he and Girish T.N., the Sanskrit teacher, drive this movement in the school. They say kids pick up the language best when taught at home by their mothers. The second best method is teaching employing gestures, and the question-answer mode. Does the present generation not question these beliefs and practices? “They do. But, we teach them to understand the faith, and not question it. You try and find out why, but don’t let go of something because you don’t understand it,” says M.B. Bhanuprakash, 52, another resident. |
History of shimoga
History:
Shimoga has a natural history of about 2000 years. People lived here even before the pre-historic period. This fact is evident from the occurrence of the Neolithic (c.1700-800BC) and from the Iron Age Megalithic (c.900BC, 1st century AD) as well as the Early Historical (c.3rd century BC-2nd century AD) cultural remains traced in 1996 in Guddemaradi, about 2 kms. from Shimoga City.
The earliest reference to the name of this town, i.e., Shimoga is found in an inscription of 1079 AD from a nearby village Tattekere. In an inscription of 1121 AD, Mandli, a part of Shimoga town is described as a beautiful town of 4th century AD.
Jainism flourished here from 10th to 13th century AD. Later the city was under the Hoysalas (1000 to 1346 AD) and Keladi Nayakas (1500 to 1763 AD) till it was included in the old Mysore State.
According too "Thungabhadra Mahatmyam" Maharshi Durvasa performed penance here. The name of the city Shimoga (now Shivamogga) is derived from the Kamandalu (i.e. moga in vernacular Kannada) of this Rishi, containing the sweet liquid obtained by squeezing the tender green grass i.e. Shimoga as exclaimed by cowherds who tasted it.
Shimoga is a colorful district with attractive landscape, waterfalls, Green Forests, River Valleys and beautiful fields. The district is situated in the center of karnataka. The Rivers, Waterfalls and Hill stations in the district are famous in the Country. Tunga, Bhadra, Sharavathi, Varada and Kumadvathi rivers have made this district a rice bowl in the state. There are many places of architectural splendor in the district. Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas and Vijayanagar Kings ruled over this region. The Keladi Nayakas was the most important rule among the ruling families, which held high the roach of Hindu culture. Shimoga made the name in all over the world, because of having a falls called Jog Falls having a world record height of 900feet and one more attraction is of Sacred Heart Cathedral Church in Shimoga, it is the second tallest church in India, with a height of 180 feet.
The region has a long and colorful history dating back to the 3rd century A.D when it was controlled by the Satavahana dynasty. In the 6th century it was a part of the empire of the Chalukyas of Badami. In the 7th century it was under the rule of a Jaina chieftain, Santara Deva. From the Rashtrakutas who ruled in the next century, the region passed into the hands of the Hoysalas in the 11th century and then became part of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. Around the beginning of the 16th century, the Keladi Nayakas took over the area and remained in control till 1763 when Hyder Ali defeated them and their kingdom was annexed to Mysore. Hyder Ali, who had been a General in the Royal Army of the Wodeyars, began to regard the defeated kingdom as his own and spoke of it as the foundation of his subsequent glory. It was only in 1799, after the battle of Srirangapatna when the British defeated Hyder Ali’s son Tipu Sultan, that the rule of the Wodeyars was re-established. The history of the district then shares the history of the Rest of India in its struggle against British.
General Information:
Shimoga, one of the nineteen districts of the Karnataka State, is situated roughly in the mid-south-western part of the State. It had an eventful history and has rich cultural traditions. It is bestowed with abundant natural resources. The western area of the district consists of a mountainous terrain, while on the eastern side, there is a striking transition from malnad and semi-malnad to maidan. The western part is replete with fascinating natural beauty, being clothed with dense tropical forests stimulated by heavy rainfall. The eastern area consists of an open country with some fine lakes and stony making this part an eye-catching one.
Natural Divisions:
The greater part of the district lies in the malnad; it is the area all to the west of a line drawn from Shikaripur to Gajanur (the latter in Shimoga taluk). The eastern portion lies in the maidan region (bailu-seeme) which is an open country. While the Tirthahalli, Hosanagar, Sagar and Sorab taluks come under the malnad, the taluks of Shikaripur, Shimoga and Bhadravati form a semi-malnad area. The Channagiri and Honnali taluks lie in the maidan region. The western portion with its tropical forests and mountain wilds presents superbly enhanting natural scenes. "The view from the head of the descent to the falls of Gerusoppa is probably one of the choicest bits of scenery in the world". There are three ghats, namely, the Agumbe ghat in Tirthahalli taluk and the Hulikal and Kollur ghats in Hosanagar taluk. They provide outlets through the picturesque hill country down to South Kanara.
The features of the open country are the absence of rich forests and far less rainfall than in the malnad region; but there are several picturesque spots like those around Shantisagar (Sulekere) lake, river valley and stony hills which have their own charm.
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Shimoga has a natural history of about 2000 years. People lived here even before the pre-historic period. This fact is evident from the occurrence of the Neolithic (c.1700-800BC) and from the Iron Age Megalithic (c.900BC, 1st century AD) as well as the Early Historical (c.3rd century BC-2nd century AD) cultural remains traced in 1996 in Guddemaradi, about 2 kms. from Shimoga City.
The earliest reference to the name of this town, i.e., Shimoga is found in an inscription of 1079 AD from a nearby village Tattekere. In an inscription of 1121 AD, Mandli, a part of Shimoga town is described as a beautiful town of 4th century AD.
Jainism flourished here from 10th to 13th century AD. Later the city was under the Hoysalas (1000 to 1346 AD) and Keladi Nayakas (1500 to 1763 AD) till it was included in the old Mysore State.
According too "Thungabhadra Mahatmyam" Maharshi Durvasa performed penance here. The name of the city Shimoga (now Shivamogga) is derived from the Kamandalu (i.e. moga in vernacular Kannada) of this Rishi, containing the sweet liquid obtained by squeezing the tender green grass i.e. Shimoga as exclaimed by cowherds who tasted it.
Shimoga is a colorful district with attractive landscape, waterfalls, Green Forests, River Valleys and beautiful fields. The district is situated in the center of karnataka. The Rivers, Waterfalls and Hill stations in the district are famous in the Country. Tunga, Bhadra, Sharavathi, Varada and Kumadvathi rivers have made this district a rice bowl in the state. There are many places of architectural splendor in the district. Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas and Vijayanagar Kings ruled over this region. The Keladi Nayakas was the most important rule among the ruling families, which held high the roach of Hindu culture. Shimoga made the name in all over the world, because of having a falls called Jog Falls having a world record height of 900feet and one more attraction is of Sacred Heart Cathedral Church in Shimoga, it is the second tallest church in India, with a height of 180 feet.
The region has a long and colorful history dating back to the 3rd century A.D when it was controlled by the Satavahana dynasty. In the 6th century it was a part of the empire of the Chalukyas of Badami. In the 7th century it was under the rule of a Jaina chieftain, Santara Deva. From the Rashtrakutas who ruled in the next century, the region passed into the hands of the Hoysalas in the 11th century and then became part of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. Around the beginning of the 16th century, the Keladi Nayakas took over the area and remained in control till 1763 when Hyder Ali defeated them and their kingdom was annexed to Mysore. Hyder Ali, who had been a General in the Royal Army of the Wodeyars, began to regard the defeated kingdom as his own and spoke of it as the foundation of his subsequent glory. It was only in 1799, after the battle of Srirangapatna when the British defeated Hyder Ali’s son Tipu Sultan, that the rule of the Wodeyars was re-established. The history of the district then shares the history of the Rest of India in its struggle against British.
General Information:
Shimoga, one of the nineteen districts of the Karnataka State, is situated roughly in the mid-south-western part of the State. It had an eventful history and has rich cultural traditions. It is bestowed with abundant natural resources. The western area of the district consists of a mountainous terrain, while on the eastern side, there is a striking transition from malnad and semi-malnad to maidan. The western part is replete with fascinating natural beauty, being clothed with dense tropical forests stimulated by heavy rainfall. The eastern area consists of an open country with some fine lakes and stony making this part an eye-catching one.
Natural Divisions:
The greater part of the district lies in the malnad; it is the area all to the west of a line drawn from Shikaripur to Gajanur (the latter in Shimoga taluk). The eastern portion lies in the maidan region (bailu-seeme) which is an open country. While the Tirthahalli, Hosanagar, Sagar and Sorab taluks come under the malnad, the taluks of Shikaripur, Shimoga and Bhadravati form a semi-malnad area. The Channagiri and Honnali taluks lie in the maidan region. The western portion with its tropical forests and mountain wilds presents superbly enhanting natural scenes. "The view from the head of the descent to the falls of Gerusoppa is probably one of the choicest bits of scenery in the world". There are three ghats, namely, the Agumbe ghat in Tirthahalli taluk and the Hulikal and Kollur ghats in Hosanagar taluk. They provide outlets through the picturesque hill country down to South Kanara.
The features of the open country are the absence of rich forests and far less rainfall than in the malnad region; but there are several picturesque spots like those around Shantisagar (Sulekere) lake, river valley and stony hills which have their own charm.
Tourist places near shimoga
Shimoga
shimoga is locally called as shiva- mogga. The name shimoga is derived from the term shiva-mukha, literally meaning "Face of Shiva". Shimoga District is a part of naturally rich Malnad region of Karnataka. Shimoga is a true picture of nature's bounts- landscopes dotted with waterfalls, swaying palms and lush paddy fields make picturesque locales, shimoga is 273 Kms southwest of Bangalore.
Make your Tour to Shimoga Memorable by visiting these famous tourist near shimoga.
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shimoga is locally called as shiva- mogga. The name shimoga is derived from the term shiva-mukha, literally meaning "Face of Shiva". Shimoga District is a part of naturally rich Malnad region of Karnataka. Shimoga is a true picture of nature's bounts- landscopes dotted with waterfalls, swaying palms and lush paddy fields make picturesque locales, shimoga is 273 Kms southwest of Bangalore.
Make your Tour to Shimoga Memorable by visiting these famous tourist near shimoga.
- Tyarekoppa Lion Safari :
started in 1988, this lion safari is a ideal picnic spot, situated 10 km, from shimoga. You can sight a variety of Lions, Tigers, cheetah, Bear, Deer, and exotic Migratory Birds here.
- Kadachadri :
This is the highest peak in shimoga District. kadachadri is around 120 km from shimoga this beautiful hill station is nestled in the western Ghats.
- Achakanya Falls
10 kms from Thirthahalli on the way to Hosanagar near Aralsuruli you can find river Sharavathi takes a spectacular leap here to form this wanderful falls.
- Tunga Dam
10 kms from shimoga city on the way to thirthahalli you can find a place called Gajanur.
- Linganmakki Dam
6 kms from Jogfalls. This dam is constructed across river sharavati. The height of the Linganmakki dam is 1819 feet above sea level.
- Shivappa Naik Palace
This palace is situated on the banks of river tunga in the busy lanes of shimoga city. This palace was built by shivappa naik of Keladi in 16th century.
- Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp
Located 14km from shimoga, you can catch a glimpse of several elephants playing in the waters, by getting into this camp before 9am.
- keladi
The first capital of Keladi Nayakas, it has a large courtyard decked with the Rameshvara temple, Veerbhadreshvarb temble, and the Parvathi temple.
- Agumbe
This spectacular sunset point is also known as the Cheeranapunji of south india as it receives the highest rainfall in South india. This Picturesque landscope is renowned for it's glorious Sunset.
- Jog Falls
one of the highest waterfalls in india, jogfalls is situated 100 Km from Shimoga It is formed by the sharvathi River, Gashing down from a height of 253 meters.
- Ballegavi
Also known as Dakshina kedara, there are some important temples here like the Kedareshwara temple, Tripurantakeshvara temple, prabhudeva temple, etc...
- Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
Situated 32km from shimoga, this is a picnic spot set amidst. Lush green forest where birds migrate from far-off places.
Yellamavasye Jatre
Thirthahalli Taluk in Shimoga District of Karnataka is the home of many temples and Mutts of different faiths. Thirthahalli town houses an ancient and famous temple whose presiding deity is Lord Rameshwara. This temple is built of stone and stands on a high place on the bank of the river Tunga which flows majestically through this town. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple has the “Mood Linga ,” which is said to have been installed by Sage Parashurama. Outside the sanctum sanctorum there are idols of Durga and Ganapathy. This temple is a major Mujrai temple of this Taluk.
Legend has it that Sage Jamadagni married Renuka, a woman of great chastity and got five sons from her. Once Renuka went to the river for bathing and there saw Chitraratha, a Gandharva. She was fascinated by him and stayed there for some more time. It was late when she returned to the ashram. Jamadagni by his divine sight could know what had happened. He became furious and asked his four sons one by one to chop off Renuka’s head. But the sons were not ready to do so. Jamadagni asked Parashurama to chop off Renuka’s head. Fearing the displeasure of his father, Parashurama immediately carried out his father’s order. Jamadagni was highly pleased and asked Parashurama to pray for any boon. Parashurama prayed his father to bring his mother back to life, to make her never to recall that incident, to liberate his brothers from the curse and give up his anger, Jamadagni agreed to all his requests.
Then Parashurama undertook a long pilgrimage to wash off the blood stains on his Parashu (axe). He dipped his Parashu in many holy rivers. Still the bloodstain of the size of sesame remained. At last he came to this place on the New moon day of Margashira month and washed his Parashu in the river Tunga. What a miracle! Even the last trace of the bloodstain disappeared. The spot where he washed his Parashu obtained holiness and came to be called Ramatheertha.
Since then every year on the New Moon Day of Margashira thousands of devotees coming from places far and near take a dip in Ramatheertha very early in the morning braving the biting cold. On Padya, the first day of Pushya Masa, there is a car festival of Rameshwara. The idol of Sri Rameshwara is taken in a procession in a decorated chariot. On Bidige, the second day of Pushya Masa, Teppotsava is help for Sri Rameshwara in the river Tunga. These three days go by the name “Yellamavasye Jatra.”
There is also another legend which says that Parashurama traveled through the length and breadth of the country to destroy the enemies of mankind. Afterwards for the salvation of those who died at his hands he gave Theertharajapura. “Yellamavasya” is the celebration of that event.
Around Ramatheertha there are Chakratheertha, Shankatheertha, Gadatheertha and Padmatheertha. Near Ramatheertha, there is a stone mantap called “Rama Mantapa.” In front of this mantap there is a stone baser. Between Ramatheertha and Chakratheertha there is “Jogigudda” with a cave in it. It is said that Jogis (Wandering Ascetics) used to sit in this cave and meditate. Originally Thirthahalli was called Theerthahvali or Theertharajapura.
Opposite to Rameshwara there are two Agrahars 1) Sadashiva Agrahara. 2) Vyasarayana Agrahara. (Somashekara Agrahara) In Vyasarayana Agrahara there are two stone temples. One is Ramachandra Devaru Temple and the other is Sri Vittal Temple. Sri Ramachandra Devara temple is situated on the banks of the river Tunga in Somashekara Agrahara in Thirthahalli. It was a private Institution. The temple was constructed and dedicated to Sri Ramachandra by Samagodu Ramappaiah probably in the 18th century. The temple was constructed by Samagodu Ramappaiah to fulfill the wish of his father Sri Thimmappaiah who had a pious wish to construct a temple and dedicate it to Sri Ramachandra. In due course the temple came to be called Sri Kodandarama Temple. Later it was taken over by the Mujrai Department. Later since the construction of the temple, the descendants of Thimmappaiah have been worshipping in the temple and conducting other usual ceremonies.
Sri Vittal Temple. This temple was built by one Damarasa Pai, who was a minister during the rule of Ikkeri and Keladi Kings in the 15th Century. Since then the descendants of Damarasa Pai have been conducting poojas and other ceremonies in the temple. At present, Sri Raghavendra Bhat and his brothers are performing poojas in the temple.
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Legend has it that Sage Jamadagni married Renuka, a woman of great chastity and got five sons from her. Once Renuka went to the river for bathing and there saw Chitraratha, a Gandharva. She was fascinated by him and stayed there for some more time. It was late when she returned to the ashram. Jamadagni by his divine sight could know what had happened. He became furious and asked his four sons one by one to chop off Renuka’s head. But the sons were not ready to do so. Jamadagni asked Parashurama to chop off Renuka’s head. Fearing the displeasure of his father, Parashurama immediately carried out his father’s order. Jamadagni was highly pleased and asked Parashurama to pray for any boon. Parashurama prayed his father to bring his mother back to life, to make her never to recall that incident, to liberate his brothers from the curse and give up his anger, Jamadagni agreed to all his requests.
Then Parashurama undertook a long pilgrimage to wash off the blood stains on his Parashu (axe). He dipped his Parashu in many holy rivers. Still the bloodstain of the size of sesame remained. At last he came to this place on the New moon day of Margashira month and washed his Parashu in the river Tunga. What a miracle! Even the last trace of the bloodstain disappeared. The spot where he washed his Parashu obtained holiness and came to be called Ramatheertha.
Since then every year on the New Moon Day of Margashira thousands of devotees coming from places far and near take a dip in Ramatheertha very early in the morning braving the biting cold. On Padya, the first day of Pushya Masa, there is a car festival of Rameshwara. The idol of Sri Rameshwara is taken in a procession in a decorated chariot. On Bidige, the second day of Pushya Masa, Teppotsava is help for Sri Rameshwara in the river Tunga. These three days go by the name “Yellamavasye Jatra.”
There is also another legend which says that Parashurama traveled through the length and breadth of the country to destroy the enemies of mankind. Afterwards for the salvation of those who died at his hands he gave Theertharajapura. “Yellamavasya” is the celebration of that event.
Around Ramatheertha there are Chakratheertha, Shankatheertha, Gadatheertha and Padmatheertha. Near Ramatheertha, there is a stone mantap called “Rama Mantapa.” In front of this mantap there is a stone baser. Between Ramatheertha and Chakratheertha there is “Jogigudda” with a cave in it. It is said that Jogis (Wandering Ascetics) used to sit in this cave and meditate. Originally Thirthahalli was called Theerthahvali or Theertharajapura.
Opposite to Rameshwara there are two Agrahars 1) Sadashiva Agrahara. 2) Vyasarayana Agrahara. (Somashekara Agrahara) In Vyasarayana Agrahara there are two stone temples. One is Ramachandra Devaru Temple and the other is Sri Vittal Temple. Sri Ramachandra Devara temple is situated on the banks of the river Tunga in Somashekara Agrahara in Thirthahalli. It was a private Institution. The temple was constructed and dedicated to Sri Ramachandra by Samagodu Ramappaiah probably in the 18th century. The temple was constructed by Samagodu Ramappaiah to fulfill the wish of his father Sri Thimmappaiah who had a pious wish to construct a temple and dedicate it to Sri Ramachandra. In due course the temple came to be called Sri Kodandarama Temple. Later it was taken over by the Mujrai Department. Later since the construction of the temple, the descendants of Thimmappaiah have been worshipping in the temple and conducting other usual ceremonies.
Sri Vittal Temple. This temple was built by one Damarasa Pai, who was a minister during the rule of Ikkeri and Keladi Kings in the 15th Century. Since then the descendants of Damarasa Pai have been conducting poojas and other ceremonies in the temple. At present, Sri Raghavendra Bhat and his brothers are performing poojas in the temple.
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