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Shimoga often spelt Shivamogga, is a city in the state of Karnataka. On the banks of the Tunga River, it serves as the administrative centre for the Shimoga district. The city is renowned for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, temples, and wildlife sanctuaries. It also has a long history and a vibrant culture.
Jog Falls, the second-highest waterfall in India, is one of Shimoga's most well-liked tourist destinations. The Sharavathi River created the falls, which provide breathtaking views of the surroundings. The Sakrebailu Elephant Camp, where tourists may see elephants being educated and cared for, is another well-liked destination.
Shimoga is also home to a number of national parks and animal sanctuaries, including the Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of species, including tigers, leopards, and wild boars, and the Gudavi Bird Sanctuary, a refuge for birdwatchers. For those who enjoy birds, the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a must-see.
Shimoga features a number of historic temples and forts for anyone who is interested in history and culture. The Shimoga Fort, which was constructed by the Keladi kings, is a well-liked tourist destination and provides sweeping vistas over the city. A well-liked picnic location is the Kote Kere Lake, which is close to the fort.
The city is also home to a number of temples, including the Shri Male Mahadeshwara Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, and the Kodachadri Temple, which honours the Hindu goddess Mookambika. On the banks of the Tunga River sits Rameshwara Temple, which is worth visiting.
Shimoga is renowned for its food, which combines traditional South Indian and Kannada delicacies. Idli, dosa, vada, and akki roti are a few of the widely consumed foods. Also, the city is home to a number of local eateries where visitors can enjoy the city's specialities.
Shimoga has excellent road and rail connections to other significant cities in Karnataka and surrounding states. Mangalore International Airport, which is roughly 200 kilometres from Shimoga, is the closest airport.
Shimoga is a fantastic destination for people seeking a healthy mix of the outdoors, understanding history, and even the culture of a place. Everyone can find something to enjoy in the city, which will leave tourists with lifelong memories.
Getting to Shimoga
- By air: Mangalore International Airport, located around 200 km from Shimoga, is the closest airport. You can take a taxi or a bus to Shimoga from the airport.
- By train: Shimoga Town Railway Station is the city's own train station. It has excellent connections to important Indian cities.
Shimoga is connected by road to important cities in Karnataka and surrounding regions.
When to go to Shimoga
The months of October through February are the ideal times to travel to Shimoga. The temperature fluctuates from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius during this beautiful time of year. If you like rain and lush vegetation, the monsoon season (June to September) is also a fantastic time to visit Shimoga.
The cost of a trip to Shimoga might vary depending on a number of factors, including lodging, mode of transportation, meals, and activities. An inexpensive weeklong excursion to Shimoga typically costs between INR 10,000 and 15,000 (about USD 135 and 200), while a more expensive journey may cost between INR 20,000 and 25,000. (approximately USD 270 to 340). The price of the trip could increase if you choose upscale lodging and transportation.
Here are seven places in and around Shimoga you must visit
1. Jog Falls
One of India's most well-known waterfalls, Jog Falls, is roughly 30 kilometres away from Shimoga. Sharavathi River creates the waterfall, which is a well-liked tourist attraction. A misty shower and a thunderous boom are produced as the water cascades down from a height of around 830 feet. Visitors can take in the scenery from the site's various vantage points and swim in the pool at the base of the falls. This is definitely a top place to visit in Shimoga. This is definitely a top place to visit in Shimoga.
2. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
The Gudavi Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of species including the painted stork, black-headed ibis, and Asian openbill stork, is situated about 16 kilometres from Shimoga. This is a very popular place to visit in Shimoga. The sanctuary features a tiny lake that is bordered by marshy terrain and trees, and it spans an area of 0.74 square kilometres. The refuge attracts migratory birds from all over the world between November and February, making this the ideal time to come. Definitely a place worth visiting in Shimoga.
3. Sakrebailu
About 15 kilometres from Shimoga, there is an elephant camp called Sakrebailu where several elephants live. The training and care of the elephants by their mahouts or keepers are visible to visitors. The camp also provides the chance to ride an elephant and get up close and personal with the creatures. Definitely, a must-visit place in Shimoga.
4. Kodachadri Hill
Kodachadri Hill is a stunning mountain peak situated approximately 115 kilometres from Shimoga. It is a well-liked trekking location and provides breathtaking views of the surroundings. The Adi Shankara Temple and the Mookambika Temple are only two of the several historic temples that can be seen on the hill and making this a must-visit place in Shimoga. Please visit this place in Shimoga!
5. Sharavathi River
Around 30 kilometres from Shimoga, the Sharavathi River is a significant river in the area. Boating is an option for visitors who want to take in the river's natural splendour. Other hydroelectric power plants, including the Linganamakki Dam and the Jog Falls Power Station, are also located along the river.
6. The Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum
The Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum is a well-liked place to visit in Shimoga and is situated in the centre of Shimoga. A palace constructed during the era of Shivappa Nayaka, an important figure in the Keladi dynasty, serves as the museum's home. Weapons, coins, and costumes, as well as other items important to the history and culture of the area, can be found at the museum.
7. The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is home to a number of bird species, including the Indian pond heron, little egret, and river tern. It is situated around 30 kilometres from Shimoga. The sanctuary contains a little island in the middle of the Tunga River and covers an area of 1.14 hectares. The island is accessible by boat, where visitors can see the birds in their natural setting. Many butterfly and reptile species can be found in this refuge. Must-visit place in Shimoga if you’re a bird lover!
While in Karnataka, you should definitely check out some of the amazing places that this state has to offer!