INFORMATION ABOUT SHIMOGA

Shimoga is a true picture of nature's bounty-landscapes dotted with waterfalls, swaying palms and lush paddy fields make for picturesque locales. Shimoga, almost central on the Karnataka map is the rice bowl of the State. The rivers Tungabhadra, Sharavathi, Varada and Kumudavathi inundate the luxuriant greens of the region.Shimoga was ruled by the great Indian dynasties of the Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas, Keladi and Vijaynagar Kings. Shimoga ( Face of Shiva), was established by the Keladi rulers. It reached its pinnacle during the rule of Shivappa Nayaka around 1600 A.D. The Sahyadri ranges,part of the Western Ghats, feed the rivers round the year, and inundate the fertile alluvial soil, this nature's blessing makes it the bread basket of Karnataka. The Sharavathi Hydel Project and Varahi Project provide a substantial portion of the state's power needs. Today, Shimoga is more than just a tourist destination. Its rich tradition in education, fine arts and culture remain deeply etched in its people and place. The enchanting natural scenery of hills, hillocks and green dales, rivers and streams, dense forests, flora & fauna, forts, temples and historical places, sandalwood and spices, add to this mouth-watering cuisine and touching hospitality and you know you've got - HEAVEN ON EARTH

SHIMOGA HISTORY

Shimoga, as per traditional derivations ,the name pertains to Lord Shiva ( 'Shiva - Mukha' - Face of shiva , 'Shivana - Mogu' - Nose of shiva, 'Shivana - Mogge' - Buds of flowers meant for shiva ) . According to the legend, the place had the ashram of the famous sage 'Durvasa' who was noted for his sharpness of temper. He used to keep on the oven a pot boiling with sweet herbs. Once, some cowherds, who chanced upon it, tasted the beverage out of curiosity and called the place 'Sihi- Moge' (Sweet Pot) , Which was later called as 'SHIMOGA' .

SHIMOGA TOURISM

The Places of Interest and Sight Seeing



• 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. The falls are surrounded by lush green trees and natural beauty.



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



• Achakanya Falls :10 Kms from Thirthahalli on the way to Hosanagar near Aralsuruli you can find this eye catching water falls. 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 food stuff.



• 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. A 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.



• Wildlife : 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 a ideal picnic spot . The safari is spread around an area of 200 Hectares of dense forest. You can witness to the grace, diversity, color 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. 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.



• Agumbe :The spectacular sunset point.



• Kodachadri :A glorious and enchanting mountain provides the perfect escape from the hectic pace of the hum drum 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 challenges the trekkers for a adventurous trekking experience. Reaching the hill top 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. 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.

ACCOMODATION/STAY OPTIONS IN SHIMOGA

• JEWEL ROCK HOTEL


Search for More Hotels in Shimoga