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City in Karnataka, India
Photo: Bhavana Homecook, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Shimoga or Shivamogga is a town in the state of Karnataka. The name originates from Shiva-mukha i.e., face of Lord Shiva.
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Situated on the banks of the River Tunga in the busy lanes of Shimoga is a 16th-century place built by Shivappa Naik of Keladi. A good architectural piece built with rose wood. The palace has a museum which has several interesting and rare archaeological collections of stone carvings and antiques from the Keladi period. Recovered idols of the Hoysala and Chalukya periods from the early 16th century to late 18th century are displayed here.
Known for being one of the earliest railway stations in Karnataka. The second railway line of the Mysore Kingdom was a meter gauge line between Shimoga and Birur. Birur to Shivamogga line was launched on December 1, 1889, and the Shivamogga railway station received the first passenger train after it covered a distance of 37.92 miles on its inaugural run.
Situated in the heart of city, the church was renovated and is said to be second largest church in India with an area of 1800 m² (18000 square feet). Also equipped with a prayer hall with a capacity to hold up to 5000 people at a time.
This place comprises a zoo and animals in the wild. Not a safari in the true sense of the word because the lions and tigers are housed in fenced enclosures and a sighting is guaranteed. The buses are well covered and take you into the wild every 30 min. All cameras are allowed at a cost of ₹150-400 depending on the type. The park also has a mini zoo housing hyenas, bears, porcupines, pythons, and alligators. You can see animals like lion, tigers, and deer. The zoo is also great, highlights being cheetahs, bears and peacocks.
On the way to Thirthahalli from Shimoga, you can hear elephants reciting their lessons. Yes, it's not a joke, in fact, here, you can find many elephants being tamed by professionals, for log lifting and other such work. Elephants from the adjoining forests bathe at this spot, before they re-enter their forest abode. Every morning these majestic creatures waddle down to the waters, and after having cleansed their bodies and having 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 elephants at play in the waters, get there before 9AM.
you can hear the birds chirping. This place is a spot for birds migrating from 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.
a 12th-century Shiva temple in early Hoysala construction in simple Vesara style.
Birthplace of the renowned Kannada poet Kuvempu (Jnanapitha award winner). 18 km from Thirthahalii, it is a must-see place for its natural surroundings and well-kept house of Malnad architecture.
Birthplace of the River Sharavathi. This river forms a beautiful waterfall at Jog. Sharavathi River is the major source of hydro electric power in Karnataka.
Fort of Shivappanayaka, very close to Thirthahalli.
A 16th-century place situated which was also known as "Beendanoor" in the 16th century. This place was the capital of the 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.
the 'Cheerapunji of Karnataka' gets the state's highest rainfall, is around 2 hours away from Shimoga, is an amazing village known for its forest resource, sunset spots, trekking passes, lakes, mountains. This one is a must see.
a small town alongside a reservoir, is tucked away in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats along the Sharavati backwaters near Sagar. Encompassing an area of 50 km by 80 km, this reservoir stretches as far as the eye can see. Honnemaradu, or “Golden Lake”, has some of the most spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. Deep in a forest, without the slightest trace of civilisation, Honnemaradu is a haven for die-hard outdoors fanatics as well as those who want a complete break from the city. Hiking is permitted along roads only, and boats are available with a hired guide. Honnemaradu is 8km outside of Talaguppa. Some of the water sports activities here include coracling, canoeing, kayaking, and wind rafting. There are many travel groups who organise island camping and water sports.
The Chaudamma/Chaudeshwari temple in Sigandur in Sagara Taluk. Of note is the "launch" which is used to get across the backwaters of the Sharavathi river. This launch also transports vehicles, including cars and buses, and even people.
This bird sanctuary is unique for many reasons, but is the only sanctuary located in the midst of the dense forest. Guduvi is one of the 5 famous bird sanctuaries of Karnataka. The place is 16 km from Soraba taluka of Shimoga district. This bird sanctuary is spread over an area of 73.68 ha. 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. Different birds immigrate from other parts of the world in different seasons for breeding. A platform is built for a closer look of birds.
A glorious and enchanting mountain provides the perfect escape from the hectic pace of everyday life. A paradise for trekkers, the place attracts lot of trekkers around Karnataka state. Kodachadri is situated at 435 m (1411 ft) above sea level and 115 km from Shimoga. 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 1300 m (4026 ft), meeting the Dakshina Kannada forests that lie below. The sea appears quite close, and on a clear day, you can also see the ships go by. The famous temple town of Kollur is 12 km away. The steep hills challenge the trekkers for an adventurous trekking experience. If you want to stay, you can go to Kalyani Chowka in Nittur and from there to Nisarga Dhaama. Manjanna always will be there for your help.
A family-run resort in the middle of the Western Ghats on the bank of river Tunga.
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The guest accommodation lies on the river bank with rooms facing the Tranquil Tunga River. The region around farm is blessed with outstanding natural beauty, panoramic river views and lush greenery. The local tourist attractions are only a short drive away from Harakere Farm
By bus
There are ample buses from the state capital Bangalore during day as well as night time. There are various classes of buses which one can take as per their wallet size.
Hiring a cab is not a bad idea though, but the better choice is try to catch a person who can take you around. Autos are not metered, and the minimum fare is ₹20 for intra-city distances.
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