Shimoga Tourism | Shivamogga | Gateway Of Malenadu

image of 1140x530

Shimoga or Shivamogga is a beautiful district filled with greenery in the Malnad region of  Karnataka. It acts as a gateway to the hilly regions of the western ghats, hence it is also known as” Gateway Of Malenadu”. Adorned with stunning waterfalls, misty landscapes, lush green forests, mighty mountains, and amazing biodiversity, this place is sure to delight all the travelers. Along with it, there are plenty of rivers that flow here and add to the charm of this region namely Tunga, Sharavathi, Kumudavath, Tungabhadra, and Varada. In addition, these rivers make this land fertile and encourage agriculture, hence Shimoga is known as the ‘rice bowl of Karnataka \’.If you are roaming, you can mostly spot palm trees dancing and endless stretches of paddy fields throughout the Shimoga. This post will shed light on Places you can visit and Things You can do in Shimoga.

Not just that, Shimnoga also has a rich heritage, culture, tradition, and history attached to it. This untouched beauty was ruled by mighty empires of Karnataka like Chalukyas, Kadambas, Gangas, and Hoysalas. Yakshagana, a dance drama, is one of the art forms that are popular in Shimoga. Besides this, there are many local cultures and art forms that add feathers to the cap of tourist in Shimoga

No worries, if you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, history fanatic, adventure freak, shutterbug, or a religious traveler, Shimoga has something for everyone. You can experience fun activities like hiking, trekking, swimming, kayaking, Jeep safari, and bird watching. It is one such place which can be visited at any time of the year. But, if you want the best of everything then head to this place post-monsoon from September To February.

 Shimoga got its name from the word ‘Shiv-Mukha’ which means ‘Face of Lord Shiva’.

Sightseeing And Things To Do In Shivamogga 

Jog falls, Unchalli falls, Kunchikal falls, Magod falls, Hebbe waterfalls, Kodachadri Hills, Dabbe falls, andAgumbe are some of the must-visit places in Shimoga.

What To Eat In Shimoga (Malenadu Dishes)

The Staple food of Shimoga is rice, hence most dishes are made with the use of rice grains. You can see the influence of Udupi cuisines in their eating habits. For breakfast, you will be served with Akki Roti, Chapati, Bisi Bele Bath, Avalakki, Saaru, Paddu, Jolada Rotti, Sambhar, Idli, Vada, Benne Dosa, Masala Dosa, Uppittu, and Kesaribath.

Usually, a typical meal of Shimoga is served on a banana leaf and will consist of Kosambari, Palya, Pickle, Gojju, Dessert, Raita, Chitranna,  Happala, Sandige, Ghee, Rice and Thambli (masala buttermilk). Besides this, Appe Huli or Appe Rasa ( mango rasam) and Midi Kayi – Uppinakayi pickle made of tender mango are locals\’ favorite. 

When it comes to non-vegetarian dishes, you will be served with Keema Unde, Mutton Sukka, Kozhi Saruu With Suggi Kadubu, or Ragi Mudde.

Special Cuisines Of Shimoga

Dessert Or Popular Sweet Dishes In Shimoga

\"Holige

Some popular sweet dishes you can munch on are Chiroti, Obbattu, Dharwad Pedha, Holige, Mysore Pak, Gasagase Payasa, A Poppy Seeds Kheer, and Seeme Akki Payasa, 

Outside of this, there are some special local desserts without which your trip to Shimoga is not complete. In fact, Thotadevvu Using Sugarcane), Genesale, Halasina Hannina Kadubu (Using Jackfruit), Kayi Kadabu, and Kobbari Burfi (coconut) are the things you shouldn’t miss.

Snacks In Shimoga

You gotta try  snack items like Hesaru Kaalu Masala, Masala Mandakki, Benne Dose, Patrode( Sweet, Sour, Spicy), Halasina Kayi Papad, Kara Kadubu, And Mandakki Fry ( With Menasina Bajji).

Conclusion

Shimoga is a treasure of Karnataka that has something in it for all kinds of travelers. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip, book your tickets, and get ready to spend some time in the arms of nature.

 

Kundadri Hill Trek Near Agumbe

image of 1140x530

Standing tall at 826 meters. Kundadri is a hill that is stuck near Agumbe, amidst the western ghats of Shimoga. It is a lesser-known tourist destination, barring locals, no one is hardly aware of it. Maybe it is because of this very reason that this hill is still able to restore all its beauty and glory. On a clear day, Kundadri hill will host an amazing view of dense forests, paddy fields, a series of rolling green mountains, wandering streams, and meandering valleys. Above all,  the view of a never-ending sky filled with cotton candy-like clouds is sure to stun any individual. Last but not least, never miss an opportunity to witness the sunset or sunrise that offers a feast to the eye and soul.

Kundadri hill is home to a 17th-century Jain temple that is dedicated to Tirthankara. The 23rd Tirthankara “Parshwanath” is the main deity of this temple. There are many beautifully carved stone statues inside the temple. Besides this, there are 2 small ponds with emerald green water next to the temple beautifying the hills. Not just that, this is the place where Jain monk “Acharya Kundakunda”  meditated thousands of years ago. Hence, this place is known as the Kundadri hills.

\"Jain

As the dusk settles making way for the moon and stars, try pitching in your tents next to the temple. If you are camping, then collect firewoods and put up a bonfire, as nights are breezy and cold. You can settle down comfortably on the rocks and gaze at twinkling stars by forgetting all the bitterness that life threw at you.

Kundadri Hill Trek 

Trek to Kundadri Hill is a 7-kilometer long journey and it will take about 3 hours to reach the peak. You have to follow the rugged narrow path which will lead you to the summit, from the base of the hill. Moreover, there won’t be any confusion as the route is straightforward and easy.

In most parts of the trek, you will be hiking through wild vegetation, rugged terrains, small streams, and slippery rocks. In the midway, you will come across Varahi dam, where travelers usually make a stopover or break for lunch. While you are climbing the stunning view of natural landscapes and ever-changing sceneries is sure to keep you entertained.

Another best thing is you can drive or ride all the way up to the peak. It is an all-season road and roads are in great condition, so don’t worry about them. However, be careful while driving because the route is narrow, steep, and full of hairpin bends.

You will hardly find any shacks or shops that serve food near the temple. Moreover, if you are someone who can’t stay away from food for too long, then try carrying food or snacks.

How To Reach Kundadri Hills From Bangalore?

You can hop into frequently available government buses from Bangalore to Tirthahalli. Else you can take a train or bus to Shimoga and from there you can take another bus to Thirthahalli. From Thirthahalli hire an auto-rickshaw or jeep to drop you at Kundadri hills which is 30 Km away.

Kundadri Hills Information

Entry Fee: Free

Trek Distance:14 Km ( To And Fro)

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Difficulty Level: Easy

Camping: Allowed Near Temple

Location:  20 Km From Thirthahalli

Distance From Bangalore: 356 Km

Also, read:  Kavaledurga Fort Trek

Adventurous Hidlumane Falls Trek

image of 1140x530

Hidlumane falls is a series of stepped waterfalls that sits at the base of Kodachadri hills of Western ghats, Shimoga. As these falls are stuck deep inside the jungles of the Mookambika reserve forest, be prepared to undertake a small trek to reach this beauty.

There are about 7 waterfalls and each one cascades down at different heights ranging from 30 to 70ft. Despite being a series of waterfalls, the biggest specialty is, each one appears hidden from one another. Do not miss out on the secluded waterfall at the top which is the most scenic of all of them.

You can spot the white water sliding down the smooth rocks to form a natural pool at the foot. This cold water pool that is shallow is perfect to take a dip and get immersed in nature.

You need to hike through muddy roads, dense forests,  plenty of small streams, steep hills, cross huge slippery rocks, jump over dead trees, and paddy fields to reach the waterfalls.

While strolling through the forest all you can hear is the rustling sound of leaves and birds chirping around. However, once you get closer to Hidlumane thunderous sound of the gushing water is sure to put silence of the forest for a toss. In fact, you will find dead woods in unusually attractive shapes, due to the presence of wood termites in this region. Above all, trek to Hidlumane falls will be adventurous and it will surely awaken the adventurer in every individual.

Try to avoid this place during peak monsoon as the trail tends to get super slippery and currents are high.

Hidlumane Falls Trekking Routes

\"hidlumane

Since this place lies on the way to Kochadri peak, you can even take a jeep ride. But, the jeep will only go until a lonely house with a shop. After this, you need to trek for amidst paddy fields and forest for 1 km to reach falls.It is a beautiful trek that keeps throwing surprises all along the way.

Hidlumane Falls Trek Via Sampekatte Village

You can see a lot of travelers start their trek towards Hidlumane falls from Sampekatte. After Sampakatte and just before Nittur Village, there is a y junction. Here, you need to take a left turn to reach the jeep route of Kodachadri hills. You should continue in the same direction till you reach Kumble school and from here take the right deviation on the muddy road in front of the school. After a while, you will get another y junction and you should take an immediate right turn here. It is a muddy uphill road, continue in this for 5 km via Emme Honda School, until you get a lonely house with a shop.

You can relax here near the lonely house and buy some snacks and water bottles from the shop. From here, you have to walk through paddy fields and muddy tracks for 1 km to reach the falls.

Hidlumane Falls Trek Via Nittur Village

Usually, there is not much confusion in this route, hence people prefer this route more than other routes. After Nittur, take a 1 to 1.5 km walk on the main road towards Kollur. After you come across a small bus stop take a left turn. It is a jeep track, which will lead you to a lonely house with a shop. This is the same house you will find on the Sampekatte trek route.

It is a series of stepped falls. After you reach the first waterfalls., you need to climb up the rocks on which the stream is flowing. Otherwise,  take a parallel route along the falls to reach the scintillating one at the top.

Hidlumane Falls Trek Via Kodachadri Peak

In this case, you can either take an alternative trek route or take a jeep ride till the Kodachadri peak. From the peak, you can hike down to Hidlumane falls.which is 8 km away.

Eateries near Hidlumane(Lonely House With A Shop)

While you are trekking, just 1 to 2 km from waterfalls, you will find a shop that is attached to a house amidst a paddy field. You can request the people staying here to cook something for you, they will be ready to do it with a small amount. But be prepared to wait for at least 2 hours because they start to cook only after receiving the order. Mostly you will be served with hot rice, sambar, pickle, and buttermilk. In the shop next to the house, you will get snacks, water bottles, and cool drinks.

You can also reach this place through a 2 wheeler or a jeep. After this point, you need to trek to the falls.

Hidlumane Waterfalls Information

Entry Fee: Rs 25 / person

Trek Distance: 5 To 6 Km

Trek Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty  Level: Moderate

Best Time To Visit: September To February

Location: Base of Kodachadri Hills

Also, read: Dabbe Falls Trek In Shimoga

Dabbe Falls Trek In Shimoga

image of 1140x530

Dabbe Falls is a hidden gem that is stuck in the Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary near Hosagadde village, Shimoga. You can see water gushing down from a cliff into a rocky valley from about 110 meters. Dabbe falls is a stepped waterfall, where a pool in each step overfills and flows down to another one below it. This is a picture-perfect waterfall that is immersed in nature and it is bound to sweep any one of their feet with its beauty. Moreover, as this place is tucked deep inside the jungles of western ghats, be prepared to take a hard day\’s trek. When you are at the bottom of the falls, jump into the huge pool formed by the waterfall and take a chill pill.

Mostly you will be hiking through muddy terrains, dense forests, paddy fields, crossing many streams, and descending steep cliffs to reach the falls.

Dabbe Falls Trekking Trail

After you reach Hosagadde village, you need to take the road that is right next to the Forest Department Board. It is a 6 km trek and it can be divided into 3 phases. We would suggest you take a local guide, as it is extremely risky venturing into unknown destinations.

 In the first phase, you will mostly hike along the muddy jeep track inside the forest. It is an easy trek and it might take around 45 minutes. After you reach Hosagadde mane which is  3 km away from the start point, the first phase ends,

The next phase is a little tricky one, as you will be walking adjacent to a couple of streams amidst dense forests. In fact, you will come across 3 streams, all of it leads to Dabbe falls. It will be a herculean task to cross these streams during peak monsoon. It is better to take an experienced guide, who knows these places well. And after about 3 km, you will find a house amidst paddy fields. This house is popularly known as Dabbemane as the falls are just 1 km away from this spot. Here, you need to fill in your personal details, before you proceed further.

Dabbe  Falls Adventurous Phase

\"Dabbe

The final phase starts from Dabbemane and it is the toughest of all the phases. For instance, sometimes you will be required to hike down a steep cliff which is 80 degrees and it will be very slippery. Try taking a rope or make sure to grab onto tree branches or roots that are coming out of the earth, for safety purposes. Distance is about 1 km, but it will take at least 45 min to 1 hour to reach the foot of falls. Halfway through the last phase, you will be able to hear the sound of falls as well as see it. Moreover, if you want to take a dip or get closer to falls, you need to jump across huge rocky boulders that are slippery.

During monsoon as the water tends to rush with great force and the path gets extremely slippery. You will not be allowed after a certain point above the cliff, from where the waterfall is available.

While you are trekking you might come across birds like Kingfishers, hornbills, flycatchers, Asian bluebirds, herons, etc. Besides this, you can also spot a wide variety of wildlife like macaques, deers, giant squirrels, langurs, and many others.

As this is untouched by masses, you will not find any shops or eateries around the corner. Try carrying your packed food and water bottles.

How To reach Dabbe Falls

Dabbe is just 30 km away from the famous Jog Falls. If you are heading to this place on your own vehicle, then take Bhatkal Siddapura Highway towards Hosagadde village. You can park your vehicle near the Hosagadde Forest department board. Otherwise, you can take a government bus that runs on this route and get down near Hosagadde.

Dabbe Waterfalls Information

Trek Distance: 7 km one way

Trek Duration: 7 hours to and fro

Best Time To Visit Dabbe Falls: Post Monsoon(September to March)

Entry Fee: NA.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Location: Hosagadde Village, Sagara Taluk, Shimoga

Also, read:  Tannirbhavi trek

Places To Visit In Shimoga | Things To Do In Shimoga

image of 1140x530

Shimoga or Shivamogga is a beautiful district filled with greenery in the Malnad region of  Karnataka. It acts as a gateway to the hilly regions of the western ghats, hence it is also known as” Gateway Of Malenadu”. Adorned with stunning waterfalls, misty landscapes, lush green forests, mighty mountains, and amazing biodiversity, this place is sure to delight all the travelers. Along with it, there are plenty of rivers that flow here and add to the charm of this region namely Tunga, Sharavathi, Kumudavath, Tungabhadra, and Varada. In addition, these rivers make this land fertile and encourage agriculture, hence Shimoga is known as the ‘rice bowl of Karnataka \’.If you are roaming, you can mostly spot palm trees dancing and endless stretches of paddy fields throughout the Shimoga. This post will shed light on Places you can visit and Things You can do in Shimoga.

Best Places To Visit In Shimoga

Here is the list of numerous things you can do while you are touring Shimoga.

Trekking In Shimoga

Kodachadri Trek

\"Kodachadri

Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful and most celebrated trekking destinations in Karnataka. Standing tall at 1300 m, Kodachadri is the 10th highest peak in Karnataka. Sampekatte in Nittur Village is the trek base, it is at 20 km from Kollur. There are a lot of Jeeps available from Kollur which will drop you near the trek base. And there are jeeps that will carry you till the halfway mark of Kodachadri trek (i.e. near the temple) if you don’t like trekking or you want to take a bumpy adventurous off-road trail, then go for it.No need of any guide if you wish to trek as there is a proper pathway.

Waterfalls In Shimoga

Magod Falls

\"Magod

Magod is a group of falls set amidst the dense jungles of Western ghats, near Yellapur, Uttara Kannada. It is a 2 tier waterfall, formed by the rivers Bedti and Shalmala. You can see the water gushing down the rocky paths from a height of 200m (650 ft) with a loud roar. Later, the falls are split into 2 segments before joining a narrow stream at the bottom of the valley.

The path leading to these falls is beautifully set up with narrow roads and deciduous trees lined up all along the way providing shades. Typical bikers would love the ride as most of the journey would seem like off-roading on muddy patches.

Know More About:  Magod Waterfalls

Jog Falls

\"jog

Jog is a majestic Waterfall standing tall amidst varying hues of lush green forests of Western ghats in Sagara, Shimoga. Sharavathi river cascades down from a height of 253 meters (830 ft) to form the famous Jog Falls. Indeed, this is the 2nd highest waterfall in India after the Nokalikal falls in Meghalaya that plunges from 335 meters. These falls are also known as Gerosappa or Joga falls or Jogada Gundi by the localities.

Know More About:  Jog Waterfalls

Unchalli Falls

\"unchalli

Unchalli falls is a hidden gem that is nestled in the Sahyadri forest range of Western ghats near Siddapura, Uttara Kannada. Water tumbles down from a height of 116 meters and spreads along rocks forming a triangle before reaching the ground. Untouched river Aghanashini that originates in Sirsi town. gives rise to Unchalli waterfalls.

Above all, these places are popular for their frequent rainbow spottings, mist-filled forests, and an uphill trek.  In fact, this waterfall was discovered in 1845 by JD Lushington, the former collector of the Colonial British Government. Hence, Unchalli is also known as Lushington falls.

Know More About:   Unchalli Falls | Lushington Waterfalls Trek

Kunchikal falls

\"Kunchikal

Kunchikal falls the lesser-known beauty is one of the highest falls in India, Water gushes down the mountain effortlessly over the rocks at around 455 meters (1493 ft) height with a thunderous sound. These waterfalls are formed by the Varahi River and its tributaries. The whole surrounding seems enchanting with mighty mountains, scenic valleys, misty forests, tiny streams, and clouds running around to lose yourself amidst nature. Also known as Kunchikal Abbe, this fall is located near Masthikatte-Hulikal of Shimoga district in Karnataka. Kunchikal falls hold 116th position in the list of highest waterfalls around the World.

Know More About:    Kunchikal Waterfalls 

Conclusion

Shimoga is a treasure of Karnataka that has something in it for all kinds of travelers. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip, book your tickets, and get ready to spend some time in the arms of nature.

Please add the places you can not afford to miss while you visit Shimoga, in the Comment section below. We are happy to hear from you.

Also, read: Places To Visit In Kodagu

Kavaledurga Fort Trek In Shimoga

image of 1140x530

Kavaledurga is a hidden gem that showcases the rich history of Karnataka and it is located near Thirthahalli town, Shimoga. This Fort in western ghats is perched on top of a hillock at about 1,541 meters above sea level. It is a beautiful fort with architectures hidden behind misty clouds and pools filled with blueish water. Not just architecture, this place is also popular among nature lovers and trekkers who wish to get lost amidst nature. Kavaledurga is a short trek of 3 Km to the peak and it might take about 2 hours to reach the summit. Above all, in most parts of the trek, you will be walking through the thick mist-filled clouds.

Kavaledurga Trek 

\"Kavaledurga

Initially, you will be walking a few yards through a stretch of green paddy fields. After that, you will come across a wooden gate passed by a well-paved stone pathway that leads you to the fort entrance. All the walls of the fort are covered with green grass and patches of fungus. While hiking you will notice tiny waterfalls that join the streams beneath the hill.

After about 45 mins of the trek, you will enter the 4th entrance of the fort. And you will be stunned by the beauty of the ancient temple and the tiny pond behind it. If you move further up you will come across remains of a huge huge palace on the top of the hill. Most of the travelers don’t go beyond this point as it appears like a peak. Actually, that is not the case, the best surprise awaits you only beyond this point. 

You need to take a muddy track that is steep and narrow amidst thick forest trails to reach the peak. In fact, the view of the fort, wandering streams, panoramic view of the valley, a stretch of greenery filled rolling hills, and misty surroundings make this place look like heaven on earth.

No eateries or shops, except for a small shop near the entrance that serves snacks and water bottles. Hence, it is always better to carry your packed food when you are heading to Kavaledurga.

History And Architecture Of Kavaledurga Fort

\"Kashi

Kavaledurga fort acted as the fourth and last capital of the Keladi Dynasty.  This fort was built in the 9th century and was later restructured by Cheluvarangappa in the 14th century. In Total, there are about 7 entrances or gates to the fort. As you enter the gates What you can see are ruins and remnants of a long-lost kingdom that had rich cultural and traditional essence in the past.

There is a popular Kashi Vishwanatha Temple with two huge pillars on the top of the hill, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is built in a typical Keladi style of architecture. This temple has carvings of snakes, elephants, warriors, birds, sun, and moon on the outer walls. 

In addition to that, you can spot a lot of ponds filled with blueish-green water at various stages of Fort. In fact, these ponds were used to store water in the olden days. These ponds have well laid out steps, to make the process of water fetching easy.

You will even come across a cave that holds years of freshwater in it. Apparently, as per legends, Bheema of Pandavas during their exile period had dug the cave using his “Gadaa”.Hence, these caves are known as” Gadaa Theertha”.

Apart from this, you will also come across the ruins of a huge palace. You can witness remains of the palace in the form of hundreds of stone pillars that are widely spread over a large area. By observing it properly, you will be able to easily distinguish between darbar hall, ammunition room, jail, kitchen, pooja room, and swimming pool in the backyard of the Palace.

How To Reach Kavaledurga Trek Point

Thirthahalli is 18 Km away from Kavaledurga and it is the only major town near Fort. There are plenty of buses to Thirthahalli from Agumbe, Shimoga, or Udupi. After you reach Thirthahalli you can hire an auto-rickshaw or jeep to reach the fort.

Kavaledurga Trek Information

Entry Fee: NA

Timings:  7 Am to 5:30 Pm

Trek DURATION: 3 TO 4 Hours

Trek Distance: 6 Km( to & fro)

Camping: Not Allowed.

Location:  18 Km From Thirthahalli

Distance From Bangalore: 365 Km

Also, read: Hidlumane Falls Trek

Kunchikal Falls | Highest Waterfall In Karnataka

image of 1140x530

Kunchikal falls the lesser-known beauty is one of the highest falls in India. Water gushes down the mountain effortlessly over the rocks at around 455 meters (1493 ft) height with a thunderous sound. Kunchikal falls are formed by the Varahi River and its tributaries. The whole surrounding seems enchanting with mighty mountains, scenic valleys, misty forests, tiny streams, and clouds running around to lose yourself amidst nature. Also known as Kunchikal Abbe, this fall is located near Masthikatte-Hulikal of Shimoga district in Karnataka. Kunchikal falls hold 116th position in the list of highest waterfalls around the World.

This place is located near Agumbe which receives the highest rainfall in Karnataka and Kunchikal being a seasonal waterfall. It is best to visit this place from July to September when the Varagi river runs full-fledged. During Monsoon seasons these falls will turn wild and offer a spectacular view of white waters tumbling down the valley with full force. Chances of spotting a beautiful beaming rainbow are high on a rainy day. Besides this, do not miss the sunsets that are absolutely breathtaking from a sunset point nearby.

There is a prominent hydroelectric plant that is built up in waterfalls to generate high powers and is distributed to most parts of Karnataka. At about 2 to 3 Km from falls, you can find a beautiful reservoir Called Mani Dam amidst thick forest.

Also, read: Manjarabad Fort Trek