Gokarna - It Is known For Its Beautiful Beaches

GOKARNA

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KARNATAKA

Gokarna is a small town in the Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka. It is a famous pilgrimage center and also one of the top destinations of Karnataka Tourism because of its beautiful beaches. 

The prime attraction of the Gokarna is the Mahabaleshwar Temple which houses the Atmalinga. The Atmalinga was given to Ravana by Lord Shiva himself. Ravana was stopped here for his evening prayers while going back to Lanka. He had been instructed by Lord Shiva not to keep the Atmalinga on the ground, since it would be fixed wherever it touched ground. Atmalinga was a powerful weapon and devatas did not want Ravana to get such a powerful weapon, fearing destruction.

Lord Ganesh took the avatar of a boy and offered Ravana to hold the Atmalinga during his prayer. Ganesha then kept the linga on ground before Ravana comes back from prayer. Ravana, in extreme anger, tried to pull out the Atmalinga from the ground, breaking it in the process. These pieces then resulted in the establishment of various temples in Karnataka. Besides Mahabaleshwara temple, there are other prominent temples here including Maha Ganapathi temple, Bhadrakali Temple, Varadaraja temple and Venkataramana temple.

The name of the town Gokarna is derived from two words, Go and Karna, which means cow's ear. According to mythology, Lord Shiva appeared from a cow's ear, after he was sent to Patal Lok by Lord Brahma. Some believe, the town is located at the confluence of two rivers Aganashini and Gangavali, and the place where the rivers converge forms a shape that is similar to the ear of a cow, hence the name Gokarna. Gokarna was under the rule of the Kadambas, Vijayanagara kings and was later conquered by the Portuguese.

Apart from being a religious town, Gokarna is also known for its beaches. There are many beautiful beaches located close by, which have small shacks serving as accommodation along with many small shops and modern eateries. The Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Gokarna Beach, Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach are the five main beaches here. Gokarna Beach is the town's main beach and pilgrims gather here when they visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple. 

The Kudle Beach is the largest of the five beaches and it is crowded during the peak season November to February. Among the beaches in Gokarna, the Om beach is extremely popular among surfers. The beach gets its name due to the natural formation of the holy Om symbol.

Gokarna is considered to be the Mukti Stala, where Hindus perform funeral rites. Devotees visit Gokarna temple on large number during Mahashivratri and Kartika Purnima festivals. The entire town is decorated during the four days of the Mahashivratri festival and the temple deity is taken out in a procession. 

Best time to visit is Oct to Mar. It usually takes one full day to visit Gokarna.

Nearest Airport: Vasco Da Gama - Dabolim Airport (154 Kms)

Nearest Train Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station (9 Kms)

Karwar Railway Station (58 Kms)

Nearest Bus Station: Gokarna Bus Station (0 Kms)

Kudumari Falls - Beauty Of This Falls Truely Beckons The Adventure Lovers

KUDUMARI FALLS

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UDUPI

Kudumari Falls is in Chaktikal village in Kundapura Taluk of Udupi district in Karnataka.  The waterfall is also called Belligunndi and Chaktikal waterfall. The fall is one of the major attraction in Kundapura. The town of Kundapura is surrounded by mountain ranges giving it a picturesque grandeur. Kundapura is an ideal spot for adventure lovers to indulge in trekking, mountaineering etc.  The serene backwaters is also an ideal spot for boating.

The Kudumari Waterfalls are located deep in the forests bordering western Ghats. Hence to reach the waterfall one need to take a 3km long trek through the forests.  Amidst the gigantic western Ghats and the breathtaking view of the luscious greenery, the waterfalls stand amazingly. The splendid coastline of the Arabian

The splendid coastline of the Arabian Sea is also evident from the waterfall. The beauty of the place is quite inviting to all adventure seekers. The waterfall is around a height of 300 meters. It falls between the lush greenery. The waterfall looks elegant from the distance among the greenery. The beauty truly beckons the tourists and adventure lovers.

As the waterfall is situated deep inside the forest, one needs to take a walk into the forest to witness the beauty. The spellbound beauty of the dense forest can be perceived as one moves along the path through the luscious greenery. The thick forests is an easy way to the waterfall.

The waterfall can also be reached on an alternate route. The base of the waterfall is accessible by trekking along the stream. The route is approachable from the coastline. The route is safe during the post monsoon season. During monsoon season, the water level is quite high and hence the route is less traversed.

The trekking through the dense forest is truly enthralling. The walk around 4km distance through the dense forests of western Ghats keeps you enticed all along. The trekking covers all kind of rocky terrain. It would an adventurous and thrilling experience for any avid trekkers. The walk through the rocks and boulders towards the cascading waterfall is quite dangerous, yet magnificent. The waterfall looks like strips of silver amidst the bright green envelope of luscious green trees.

Monsoon is not the right time to visit, as the water level would be higher, causing difficulty for trekkers to trek to the waterfall. The time from November to January is the best time to visit.The trekking takes almost two hours trek one way.

Timing:  Mon- Sunday morning 8:00 to 5:00 pm

By Air

Mangalore Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 173 km. Tourists can reach Kudumari waterfalls by hiring a taxi or even take up buses that ply to Udupi.

By Train

Kundapura is the nearest railway station to reach Kudumari waterfalls. From Kundapura tourists can hire a taxi, or a bus to reach Chaktikal village.

By Road

Udupi is quite accessible by road from major cities like Bangalore and Mangalore etc.  From Udupi to Chaktikal village one can take up any means like a bus or rent a taxi which is just 93 km. Chaktikal to Kudumari waterfall is a two-hour long trek.

Source: karnataka.com

Omkareshwara Temple - King Lingarajendra 2nd Built This Temple For His Mental Peace In 18th Century

OMKARESHWAR TEMPLE

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MADIKERI

Omkareshwara Temple is situated in the middle town of Madikeri of Kodagu district in the Karnataka State of India. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shive.The speciality of the temple is that its construction reflects a mix of Gothic and Islamic styles, It is a popular religious destination of Coorg. The temple draws a large number of tourists and devotees regularly.

The Omkareshwara Temple was constructed by King Lingarajendra II in the 18th century. Legend has it that the temple was built by the king as a form of penance.The story goes around that the king had killed a Brahmin to fulfil his political ambitions. However, the king started to have nightmares for his cruel deed. In order to free himself from the nightmares, the King sought the advice of a few wise men. They asked the king to build a temple of Lord Shiva to regain his mental peace.

The king followed their advice and brought a Shivalingam from the holy town of Kashi and installed it at a newly constructed temple. It is said that the stopped having the nightmares king after the temple was built. This Shivalingam is worshipped as Omkareshwara.

The Omkareshwara Temple displays a unique style of architecture. The temple has a design that is quite similar to the ones seen in Muslim dargah. The structure of the temple comprises of a large central dome with four minarets standing at the four corners.

The interesting thing to note is that the temple lacks a pillared hall as is common in most temples of India. The Shivalingam is installed near the entrance door. The history of the temple has been inscribed on a copper plate and fixed on the entrance door frame.

The Omkareshwara Temple is a large and simple structure with a peaceful ambiance. A water tank exists inside the temple premises. The tank has a mantapa built in the centre. This mantapa is connected by a walkway. A large number of fishes can be seen playing in the water of the tank at any time. As such, the tank attracts the attention of the tourists and devotees who visit the temple.

Timings: 6:30 AM to 12:00 Noon; 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Best time to visit: between the months of October to March

Entry Fee: Free

Duration of Visit: 1 hour (approximately)

Temple Info

Abhisheka – 6:30 AM to 6:45 AM

Ganga Pooja – 7:00 AM

Maha Pooja – 12:00 noon

Maha Pooja – 8:00 PM

Every Full moon day – Mass Sathyanarayana Pooja

Every 1st Tuesday of the month – Mass Ganahoma at Kote Ganapathi temple

By Air

The Mysore airport is the nearest one to Madikeri as the small town has no airport. Mysore is connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hubli, and Dubai via Bangalore. The Mangalore International Airport at Mangalore can also be assessed to reach the town of Madikeri.

By Train

Madikeri does not have a railway station of its own. The nearest rail stations are located at Hassan, Kasaragod, and Kannur (each of which approximately 115 km away from Madikeri).Mysore and Mangalore are at a distance of 140 km from Madikeri and can be good alternatives to reach Madikeri through the train route.

By Bus

Madikeri is located near the Karnataka State Highway 88 that connects Mysore to Mangalore. This makes Madikeri a well-connected place by the road network.There are several public buses that ply from Madikeri to a number of places in Karnataka and Kerala. There are frequent KSRTC buses that connect Madikeri to Bangalore, Mysore, Virajpet, etc. The town can also be reached by private cars and hired cabs.

Talacauvery - It Has Healing And Miraculous Powers

TALACAUVERY 

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KODAGU

Talacauvery, the birthplace of the sacred river Cauvery, is located 44 km from Madikeri, on the slopes of Brahmagiri Hill. Besides being a pilgrimage center, Talacauvery is known for its natural beauty.Talacauvery is situated in the Brahmagiri hill which lies in the Kodagu district.  Talakaveri lies about 1276 metres above the sea level. The entire panorama is scenic and very beautiful and many tourists come here for a holiday. Bhagamandala is the meeting of three rivers and is also referred to as Triveni Sangam. Dakshin Kashi is another name given to Talakaveri temples.

On Tula Sankaramana day in the middle of October, thousands of pilgrims flock to the river’s birthplace to witness a sudden upsurge of water in a small pond, at a predetermined time. Devout Coorgs take a holy dip in a nearby pond and take home the holy water from the small pond to perform worship on the day of Cauvery Sankramana, the holiest national day for the Coorgs. Pilgrims from neighbouring districts and Tamil Nadu visit Talcauvery for a month after Tula Sankramana. The gushing of water from the small pond at an auspicious moment is considered a miracle. After the holy dip, the pilgrims take a flight of steps leading up to the summit of the Brahmagiri Hill, which offers a feast for nature lovers. 

There is a religious significance attached to the temple. It is said that if you take a dip in the holy river you will be healed of various physical and psychological miseries. The water here is supposed to have healing and miraculous powers. It is said that the Coorgies used the holy water and prayed to Goddess Cauveramma Devi Thayi.Talacauvery is about eight kilometres from Bhagamandala. There are many small temples here and many devotees visit this beautiful temple every year. The temple was constructed for Lord Agastheeswara.

The name Talakaveri implies the source of the river Cauvery. As per Hindu mythology, the river Cauvery is one of the most sacred rivers in India. It is about 4187 feet situated on the Brahmagiri hill slopes. Talakaveri is marked with Brahma Kundike or Tirth Kundike. A small spring of water originates from this place and hence it is referred to as Talakaveri.

There is a big tank and a shrine that have been constructed close to the Tirth Kundike at this holy place. The devotees take a bath in the holy waters of Talakavery. There are two temples, one of Lord Shiva which houses an ancient linga and the other of Lord Ganesha. The linga is supposed to have been installed by Sage Agastya.

The Tulasankaramma is celebrated in Talakaveri with great pomp and splendor. There is a water gush at the Brahma Kundike during this period and devotees come here in huge numbers to worship at the temple. The locals believe that this is a very auspicious occasion. The festival of Tulasankramma is celebrated in the month of October every year. The close by hills of Chambundi, Nilgiris, Kudremukh and Wayanad are good tourist spots. The best time to visit Talakaveri temple is from September to May. It is best to avoid going during the monsoon season. 

The closest airport is Mangalore which is about 194 kilometres away. Bangalore airport is about 310 kilometres away. You can reach Mysore station which is about 160 kilometres from here.

From Mysore if you wish to go on road the route would be: Mysore – Hunsur- Periyapatna-Bylekuppe-Koppa-Kushal Nagara-Cauvery Nishadharma – Hosakote – Suntikoppa – Madikeri- Abey Falls-Bhagamandala-Talacauvery

There are State Road Transport Corporation buses that operate between Karnataka and Kerala. Also private buses operate or connect Madikeri with other cities. The best time to visit this temple would be during Tulam Sankrama in the month of October.

Mullayanagiri Peak - It Is One Of The Best Trekking Place In Karnataka

MULLAYANAGIRI PEAK

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CHIKMAGALUR

Mullayanagiri located in Chikmagalur district is the highest peak in Karnataka with an altitude of 1950 meters. It is regarded as the highest peak between Himalayas and Nilgiris. Mullayanagiri is one of the best treks in Karnataka and among top sites for trekking places to visit in Chikmagalur.

The peak gets its name from a small temple at the summit, which is dedicated to a Tapasvi Mullappa swamy, who is believed to have meditated at the cave near the summit. For adventure enthusiasts, the location offers an opportunity to engage in activities like mountain biking, trekking and road biking. Being the highest peak in Karnataka, it offers some very interesting trails. 

The trek route to the peak begins from Sarpadaari, which is connected with Chikmagalur by road. This is 3 km long moderate level trek which is fairly steep and takes about 1.5 hrs to reach the peak. Direct road access is also available closer to the peak which needs less than 1 km trek and take about 20-30 mins.

The valley views from the top of Mullyanagiri are breathtaking. The landmarks on the trek path are a small stream, a Nandi statue and a cave with a small water source inside. The Sunset presents a spectacular view from the peak.

Other trekking trails from Mullayangiri are Baba Budangiri (12 km), Manikyadhara Falls (9 km) and Deviramma Temple (13 km). The path to Bababudanagiri is quite popular are relatively easy. The path behind the temple on Mullayanagiri peak towards the BSNL Tower on Eastern side leads to Baba Budangiri and Manikyadhara Falls. However, the charm of this trail lies in the Ridge Walk and Blade Walk along the linear hills of the Baba Budangiri ranges. 

The first stretch involves a steep descent downhill to meet the main road. The second part of the trail involves a gentle ascent uphill and a unique ridge walk. Usually, there is heavy fog and visibility challenges as one treks on the ridges.

The next stretch of this trail takes one to the BSNL tower which is a few kilometers before the peak. This trail entails the blade walk if one is able to get permission from the checkpost situated enroute as trekkers cross the main road. Blade walk is a truly adrenalin pumping rocky stretch with scaring drops on either side. 

After more than half an hour trek on a narrow path, one reaches the BSNL tower. A small lake near the tower offers refreshment. The final stretch of the trail takes you to Baba Budan Giri that lies about 2 km away from the tower. The route from BSNL tower to Bababudanagiri is clear and camping is allowed at Baba Budhangiri.

Manikya Dhara Falls is straight from the BSNL tower. Deviramma Temple is further 4 km trek from Manikya Dhara Falls. The best time to trek Mullayangiri is from September to February. There are no shops at the summit. Packed food and water is necessary for trekking. Temple authorities can help in camping and cooking. 

Incase of large crowd, vehicles to Mullayanagiri are stopped at Seethalayanagiri. From Seethalayanagiri, Mullayanagiri is 3 km and it is a simple trek.

Fees & Reservations: Rs. 250 to Rs. 300 at Forest Dept checkpost

Agumbe Hill Station - It Is Home To Several Rare Species Of Medicinal Plants

AGUMBE HILL STATION

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SHIMOGA

Agumbe is known for its scenic beauty and bio-diversity. Nestled on a plateau on top of Someshwara Ghat, it is located at a distance of 380 km from Bangalore. Situated in Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe gets its sobriquet because it receives 7,640 mm of mean annual rainfall, the second highest annual rainfall in India.

Agumbe is surrounded by rich biodiversity and the hill station borders one of the last surviving lowland rain forests. Since Agumbe is home to several rare species of medicinal plants like Garcinia, Myristica, Listsaea, Diospyrous, Hoiligarna, Eugenia and Ficus among others, it is also called ‘Hasiru Honnu’ which means ‘green is gold’. 

The whole area and the reserve forests around Kundapur, Shankaranarayana, Hosanagara, Sringeri and Thirthahalli are collectively referred to as the Agumbe Rainforest Complex and form one of the largest contiguous forest stretches left in India. During rains, Agumbe and the surrounding region come alive with several waterfalls; Kunchikal Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls and Jogigundi Falls are some of the popular ones.

Most tourists visit Agumbe to trek through its forests or to visit the waterfalls. Trekking to the Kudlu Theertha Falls or Nishani Gudda offers a once in a lifetime experience. (But also beware of the leeches that infest the forests.) The high points of the treks are the visual treats that Agumbe offers. Sunset Point, a gallery erected to view the sunset, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and even the Arabian Sea on a clear day. Remnants of temples dating back to the Hoysala Empire are also worth a visit.

Agumbe served as the setting for India’s most popular fictional town, Malgudi in the TV series Malgudi Days (that itself was based on the eponymous book by R K Narayan). Doddamane or the Big House, which Swamy lives in, is over 100 years old and still stands proudly here.

India’s sole permanent rainforest research station is based at Agumbe. It is also equipped with India’s first automatic weather station. The station exclusively monitors changes in rain forests. Agumbe is also called King Cobra capital because of the high number of snakes of the species being found here. Interestingly, despite the high density of King Cobras in the region, incidents of snake-human conflict are rare. The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station has pioneered the world’s first radio-telemetry project on the King Cobra. Insights gained from the ecological study are being put into practice into King Cobra management.

The best time to visit the place is during monsoon, when the hill station is full of sparkling streams and several waterfalls.

By Air

Mangalore is the nearest airport, 100 km away. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at the airport.

By Train

Shimoga, 90 km away and Udupi, 55 km away are the nearest railway stations to Agumbe. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at both railway stations.

By Road

Buses are available from Bengaluru and other places to Agumbe and Theerthahalli which lies on the National Highway NH-13 and then towards Agumbe

Mysuru Zoo - It Is One Of The Best Zoo In The World

MYSORE ZOO

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KARNATAKA

Mysuru Zoo (Chamarajendra Zoological Garden) was started in 1892 by chamaraja Wodeyar X, then the king of Mysuru.  It is one of the oldest and most popular zooz in India.Initially as a private Zoo, and was named as Khas-Bangale.  It was also called as Thamash Bangle.  The Zoo which has now spread over an area of 250 acres was initially ment for the exclusive visit of the royal family but public entry started as early as 1920.  It is located inside the city unlike many other Zoos in India and Mysuru Zoo is considered to be one of the best in the world.

The Zoo has about 1500 animals, ranging from the opossum to orangutan.  This Zoo houses a wide range of animals.  Mysuru Zoo was the first in the country to obtain gorilla and penguin’s. Many animals which are imported from countries like Africa, America, and Australian countries under conservation project due to the successful breeding of the white tiger.  It is also credited with achieving considerable break-through in captive breeding of many animals.  elephants also breed well in captivity in this Zoo.

The Zoo has a small museum which exhibits the stuffed animals.  A small library is also located in the Zoo. Painting and essay competitions are periodically conducted by the zoo authority the children to create awareness and love in them for animals.

Ms.Sally Walker (USA) started the friends of Mysuru Zoo (FMZ) in 1980.  At present there is a scheme for ‘Adopting’ an animal. Which means you can take care of the feeding expenses of an animal for a certain of time.  Karanji Lake is a part of Mysuru Zoo.  The lake attracts about 45 varieties of birds; some of the birds migrate here from too far aways places. The lake has been renovated recently and boating facility is also available.

Visiting hours: 8.30 am to 5.30 pm    Ph.0821 - 2440752, 2520302

Entrance Fee:   Adults Rs.25/-Children(5-12 yrs) Rs.10/- , Tuesday holiday.

Zoo Road, Near Mysuru Mall, Indira Nagar, Ittige Gudu, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010

Dandeli - It Is One Of The Best Natural Habitats In The World

DANDELI

Dandeli is a picturesque town on the banks of the River Kali in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Dandeli is one of the top destinations of Karnataka Tourism. It is quite famous for its gorgeous natural backdrop, wildlife and adventure activities. 

Dandeli has a dense forest cover and is one of the best natural habitats in the world. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. The sanctuary is crisscrossed by River Kaneri and River Nagajhari, tributaries of River Kali. The sanctuary is the natural habitat for several wildlife species such as tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur and languor.

Dandeli is one of the top white-water rafting destinations in India. Kayaking, canyoning, water rafting, overnight rafting or canoeing trips on the Kali River along with other adventure sports like cycling and mountain biking are some of the things one can indulge in here. Dandeli also offers crocodile spotting, nature walks, treks, boating, bird watching and angling trips.

Other popular attractions in Dandeli include the Ulavi Temple, Syntheri Rocks and Kavala Caves. Molangi, Syke's Point, Nagajhari Viewpoint and Supa Dam are other places of interest for travellers.

Hubli Airport is the nearest airport, which is about 66 km from Dandeli. The nearest railway station is Alnawar, which is 33 km from Dandeli. It has trains from Bangalore, Vasco Da Gama, Hubli, Delhi, Pune, Tirupati, Pondicherry, Hyderabad, Mysore, Mumbai, Mangalore and Tirunelveli. Dandeli is also well connected by bus with Bangalore, Hubli, Karwar, Davanagere and Udipi.

Dandeli has hotels for all budgets ranges from resorts, guest houses to lodges, camps and tents. Dandeli Jungle Inn, Kulgi Nature Camp, Pansoli Guest House, Hornbill River Resort, Vacation on White Water Resort, Old Magazine House, Bison Resort and Kali River Resort are the few accommodation options.

The best time to visit Dandeli is from October to March.

At a distance of 55 km from Dharwad, 73 km from Hubli, 89 km from Belgaum, 106 km from Karwar, 130 km from Panjim, 240 km from Shimoga and 462 km from Bangalore,

By Air

Nearest Airport: Hubli - Hubli Airport (66 Kms)

By Train

Nearest Train Station: Alnavar (33 Kms)

By Bus

Nearest Bus Station: Dandeli (0 Kms)

Shivanasamudra Waterfall - It Has Two Large Streams

SHIVANASAMUDRA WATERFALL

Shivanasamudra is a famous waterfall situated in Mandya District of Karnataka State. This is one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore and also among popular one day trip from Bangalore. These waterfalls are also known as Siva Samudram, literally meaning Shiva's Sea. Shivanasamudra is a segmented waterfall with several parallel stream formed adjacent to each other.

Situated on River Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is among the popular Tourist places in Karnataka. The island of Shivanasamudra divides Kaveri River into two parts that form two waterfalls, one is Gaganachukki and the other is Bharachukki. Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls are collectively called as Shivanasamudra Falls though Gaganachukki is most commonly represented as Shivanasamudra Falls. This place offers breathtaking sight in the peak monsoons.

Gaganachukki includes a huge horsetail shaped waterfall dropping from a height of 90 m and two large parallel streams that cascade down through a rocky bed from a height of over 320 feet. The currents here are quite strong and the gorge is quite deep. So, swimming is not permitted here. Asia's first hydroelectric power station was set up in the downstream of the falls in the year 1905. The power generated here was initially used in Kolar Gold Fields. The power station is situated near a Dargah, from where you can have excellent views of the other side of Gaganachukki.

Bharachukki is situated at distance of approximately one km from the Gaganachukki (Dargah point). The cascading edge of Bharachukki is a little wider and more popular than that of Gaganachukki. Barachukki is a cascading fall with a height of 70 m forming several streams through the wide rocky formations establishing superb natural beauty. 

There are well laid plight of about 200 steps that lead down to the waterfall. The way down to the waterfall is relatively safe as it fenced with railings and there are benches to sit on and relax. An interesting way to watch the beauty of the waterfall is to take a coracle ride to the mouth of the magnificent waterfall. Barachukki also has a section of waterfall where the water flows less in volume and an ideal spot to play and enjoy a bath under the waterfall in this area. 

Though geographically both the falls are adjacent, the viewpoints of these falls are about 15 km away. The Gaganachukki waterfalls are best viewed from the Shivanasamudra watch tower. There is another approach to the Gaganachukki falls from the Dargah Hazrath Mardane Gaib which provides the best view of the right branch of the falls. Reaching the bottom of the waterfall from the watch tower side is not possible as the area is fenced and no one is allowed to go near the water. There are also warnings posted near the fence that caution visitors against crossing the barrier and proceeding to the water from that side of the falls.

July to January is the best time while August to October is the peak season.

At a distance of 130 km from Bangalore & 81 km from Mysore,

By Air

Nearest Airport: Bangalore - Bengaluru International Airport (175 Kms)

By Train

Nearest Train Station: Mysore Junction (81 Kms)

Bangalore City Railway Station (130 Kms)

By Bus

Nearest Bus Station: Sivanasamudra (0 Kms)

Kemmanagundi Hill Station - Sunset View Is A Photographer's Delight

Kemmanagundi Hill Station - Sunset View Is A Photographer's Delight

Kemmanagundi is a hill station in Tarikere taluk of Chikmagalur district. At an altitude of 1434 m, Kemmanagundi is a beautiful and picturesque hill station, situated on the Baba Budan range. Kemmangundi derives its name from three Kannada words - kempu (red), mannu (soil) and gundi (pit) means a place with red soil. It is among the popular tourist places in Karnataka and an ideal weekend getaway from Bangalore.

Kemmanagundi is also popularly known by the name of KR Hills, named after the Mysore King Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. Mesmerized by the beauty of the place, he made Kemmangundi as his summer retreat. He later donated this resort to the Government of Karnataka. The Horticultural Department of Karnataka now develops and maintains the resort and its surroundings. The department grows a lot of ornamental plants here.

According to puranas, Kemmangundi was called Chandra Drona Parvatha. Water, gushing down through innumerable herbs and medicinal plants, is believed to cure many diseases, including the common cold and skin ailments. The region is covered with plantations of coffee and tea along with thick bamboo groves forming a dense forest cover.

Kemmangundi is a beautiful hill station with breathtaking views of the valleys amidst mountain streams and lush vegetation. The main attractions of Kemmangundi are Raj Bhavan, Z point, Rock garden, Hebbe Falls, Kalhattagiri Falls, Baba Budan Hill and Bhadra Tiger Reserve. The sunset view from the Raj Bhavan is a photographer's delight. Kemmangundi is popular among tourists for trekking routes, mountain trails and other adventure activities. Shanti Falls and Hebbe Falls are the two famous waterfalls located here that offer trekking opportunities.

Kemmangundi provides various accommodations in the form of homestays and resorts. Horticulture Department Guest House (known as Raj Bhavan), The Last Resort, Valley of Birds, Dhoopada Giri lodge, Kallahatti lodge, etc., are some of the places tourists can enjoy staying.

Mangalore airport is the closest airport which is 219 km from Kemmangundi. Birur (32 km) & Shimoga (68 km) are nearest railheads to Kemmangundi. Birur has trains from Bangalore, Mysore, Hubli, Kolhapur, Goa, Ajmer & Pondicherry. Shimoga has train connectivity from Bangalore, Mysore & Talguppa. Kemmangundi is well connected by bus services. Private and public transport buses connect frequently to Chikmagalur, Bangalore and Mangalore.

Kemmangundi offers a pleasant climate throughout the year. The best time to visit the destination is from September to May; avoid visiting during the monsoons. Usually it takes 1-2 days to explore the major places here.At a distance of 62 km from Chikmagalur, 41 km from Kadur, 121 km from Hassan, 68 km from Shimoga, 205 km from Mangalore, 213 km from Mysore and 246 km from Bangalore,

Bangalore Palace – Nineteenth Century Paintings Ornamented In The Inside Walls Of This Palace

BANGALORE PALACE

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BANGALORE

Bangalore Palace is situated in the Palace Gardens, at the heart of the Bangalore city of India. Built in the year 1887 by Wodeyar dynasty, it is adorned with magnificent woodcarvings and Tudor-style architecture on the inside. Infact, the palace is quite similar to the medieval castles that were built in Normandy and England.

The Windsor Castle of London left a great impression on King Chamaraja Wodeyar of Wodeyar dynasty, on one of his trips to England. Inspired by the Tudor style architecture, he got the Bangalore Palace built in the city.

Once surrounded by beautiful gardens, the palace has now lost much of its original charm. However, it still succeeds in attracting tourists. Fortified towers, Gothic windows, battlements and turrets lend a great degree of magnificence to the Bangalore Palace of India.

Mainly constructed of wood, it boasts of splendid carvings and paintings. Today the palace serves as the venue for various exhibitions, concerts and cultural programs held in the city. The ground floor of the Bangalore Palace comprises of a massive open square.

The square is full of granite seats that are adorned with fluorescent blue ceramic tiles. Along with the courtyard is a ballroom, where private parties of the King used to be held.

As we move to the first floor, the foremost thing that comes into view is an ornate room, known as the Durbar Hall. The King used this hall for addressing the assembly. Mounted on the hall is a colossal elephant head, while its walls are ornamented with exquisite paintings. One of the walls of the Durbar Hall has a set of windows that are decorated with stained glass.

There is an abundant use of the yellow color in the hall, with the walls as well as the sofa being of the said color. One end of the room houses a screen, which provided a veil to the ladies when they used to sit and watch the assembly proceedings.

There are also a number of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, a renowned artist in the palace. The inner walls of the Bangalore Palace are also festooned with paintings belonging to the mid-19th century. The other attractions of the palace include a dining table of the Diwan of Mysore, Sir Mirza Ismail.

The interior walls of the palace are adorned by old paintings belonging to the mid-19th century, including some Greek and Dutch paintings.

Entry fee:  Entry Fee for Indians : Rs.210 Entry Fee for Foreigners : Rs.450

Timings :    Visiting Hours - 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM

The palace is situated between Sadashivanagar and Jayamahal in the heart of Bangalore city. The city of Bangalore can be approached from any of the metro cities by road, rail or air. Many international flights also connect directly to the Bangalore city. After reaching Bangalore, one can take the metro, bus, or hired cars to reach the Bangalore Palace.

More Places To Visit In Bangalore


Hebbal lake – It Is Unique Place For Variety Of Colourful Birds

A Remarkable Milestone of 203rd Flower Show-Lalbagh Botanical Garden

TIPU SULTAN FORT

Cubbon Park - Banglore Is Named Garden City After Being The Park

Chennakesava Temple – It Has Large Number Of Pillars With Variety Of Beautiful Designs

CHENNAKESHAVA TEMPLE

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HASSAN

Chennakeshava Temple is the large temple in Belur and one of the most remarkable monuments from Hoysala times and region. It was commissioned by the Hoysala king himself to celebrate an important military victory in 1117 AD. This is exceptional, since nearly all other Hoysala temples were commissioned by rich officials or rich civilians.

The king obviously wanted an extraordinary temple because it has been built in an architectural style foreign to the region. Moreover the monument is exceptionally large and its decoration very lavish. Many of the decorations were added later in the 12th century by the grandson and successor of the founder.

The Cennakesava-temple stands in a compound with several smaller temples and a pond.Beautyful Belur the Quaint little town set elegantly on the banks of river Yagachi amidst lush surrounding was earlier Known as Velapuri. It was chosen as the capital of the Hoysalas, after the sacking and destruction of their capital at Dwarasamudra (Halebid), by the Delhi Sultans.

The Hoysalas Ruled this reigon between 44 th and 13 th centuries. They were great patrons of art and architecture and builts a number of magnificent shrines during their 300 years regin. The temples and monuments at Belur are indeed the best Hoysala creations, showcasing their amazing architecture and sculptures in full glory Belur was highly revered for its magnificient shrines and came to be Known as “modern vaikunta (heaven) of the earthe”.

The Hoysala temples are characterized by typical star shaped ground plan and are usually ste on a platform. They are compact, squat structures and are more human in scale as compared to other soaring shrines of the south. Ornately carved shrines indicate the music and dance were highly regarded by the Hoysalas and were used to express religious fervor.

The temples at Belur are carved out of soap stone (steatite), quarried from Tumkur, About 200 Kms away. This stone is extremely easy to chisel, but attains iron-like fitness when exposed to the atmosphere. To maintain the shine of the temple, the stone is treated with a chemical wash and then wax polished once in ten years.

Also the hall of the temple is very large and very ornate. Originally it was anBelur2.jpg (77954 bytes) open hall without full walls, it had a parapet-wall and a roof only resting on pillars. Its plan is not a square but a stepped diamond, which is usual in this kind of open halls. The parapet-wall is very high in this case, more than two meters, and is topped with a slanting seat-back.

This seat-back is decorated with panels showing mythological scenes. Below it are numerous horizontal bands with lavish sculptural decorations and depictions, some of them extremely delicate.

Today this small town basking in the warmth of its luxurious greenery and glorious past is regarded as “one of the jewels” of South India architecture. Its temple have become rich repositories of ancient Hindu culture and a must visit site on every tourist’s temple itinerary.

By Air

Nearest airport is Bangalore airport to Belur.

By Train

Hassan railway station is the closest for Belur.

By Bus

Frequently bus services available from Bangalore, Mysore, Hassan and Mangalore to Belur.

Mangaladevi Temple – Doing A Tour Of Mangalore Could Not Finish Without A Trip To This Temple

MANGALADEVI TEMPLE

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MANGALORE

Sri Mangaladevi Temple is a Hindu temple in the city of Mangalore District of Karnataka State of India. The temple is at Bolara which is about three kilometers from the City Centre. The temple is dedicated to the god Shakti who is in the form of Mangaladevi. This is where the name of the city, Mangalore, comes from. This temple has high significance among the locals and was built in the ninth century.

The history of the temple dates back to the tenth century when two sages came to visit Mangalore from Nepal. The sages were named Machhendranatha and Gorakanatha. Hearing about the arrival of the two sages, the ruling king came to meet them. He offered all help and patronage and paid his respects to them.

Delighted by the humility of the King, the sages asked him for a piece of land to build a temple. The King came to know about the temple built by Parshurama which was the Temple of Mangaladevi. The sages then took the King to all the places which had historical importance and asked him to dig the place and build a temple.

The King did as he was asked to and a grand shrine of the goddess stood at the holy place. Since then, the temple attained special significance and has become a part of the history of the city of Mangalore.

The temple has an architecture which reflects the style of Kerala and has most of the structure made from wood. The Hindu god, Mangaladevi is in a seated posture inside the temple. A rectangular wall around the temple encloses all the shrines located inside the temple boundary. The central shrine has the image of the deity which can be reached through five steps.

The temple has a two-storied tower and special pujas are performed during the Navaratri festival. Special pujas are performed on all the nine days of the festival. A large number of devotees gather at the temple of the day of Dasara which is the tenth and the last day of Navaratri festival.

On the day of Dasara, the decorated goddess is mounted on a chariot and the grand procession moves to Marnamikatte, where the god Mangaladevi and Shamivriksha are worshipped. The devotees believe that the worship of the goddess brings them prosperity and happiness. The Vedic Brahmins perform various pujas and rituals on a regular basis.

The temple has a rich heritage, Keralian style architecture and a historical significance. The temple has easy access through buses and autos. Travelling to the ancient city of Mangalore will not be complete without a visit to this temple.

Darshan Timings

Morning00 AM – 10.00 AM

Noon: 00 Noon 1.00 PM

Evening:00 PM -8.30 PM. (Fridays till 9.00 PM)

Daily Pooja timings

6.00 AM, 1.00 PM, 8.30 PM and 9.00 PM on Fridays

By Air

Mangalore International airport is nearest airport and from there you can avail taxis or buses

By Train

Mangalore railway station is the nearest railway station to reach the temple.

By Bus

The temple can be easily reached through the best transport system available here. Get into the bus number 27, 27A, and 29A, to reach the temple

Malpe Beach – It Is Bounded By A Number Of Islands

MALPE BEACH

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UDUPI

Malpe Beach in Karnataka is one of the unexplored beaches in India. Located at a distance of 66 kms from Mangalore and about 6 kms from Udupi, the Malpe Beach is an undefiled virgin beach.

The beach has a never-ending coastline, which is surrounded by three rocky islands on the western side. Earlier, Malpe was a port on the coast of Karnataka which is now an ideal destination for a holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The beach town is surrounded by four rocky islands are Daria-Bahadurgad Kari-Illada-Kallu, Daria-Gadara-Kalluthe,Mary’s Islands (thonse paar).Being the largest port in Karnataka, Malpe has a considerable population engaged in fisheries and tile manufacturing.

The Malpe Beach has a pleasant weather and clean white sand which makes it ideal for a variety of water sports activities. It is a hidden treasure that lies in the State of Karnataka.

The beach attracts water lovers to explore this virgin beach and indulge in some exciting activities. This beautiful beach is lined with palm trees and covered with a blue sky that provides a perfect picture for nature lovers.

The beach is one of a kind, you can lie down and enjoy the sunset or indulge in the water sports activities that will set your adrenaline pumping! There are a variety of resorts and restaurants located on the beach which give you a breathtaking view and also provide a remarkable experience.

The best time to visit Malpe beach is between October to January when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Avoid the monsoons and the hot summer months.

There are various places of interest at Malpe, the scenic beach is one of the biggest attractions for tourists, in addition, there is St. Mary’s Island, Ulall beach, Daria-Bahadurgad Fort, Malpe also houses the temples of Balarama and Ananteshwara.

Malpe offers a variety of adventure and water sports activities to indulge in. Bring out your adventurous side and make the most of these fun activities.

Jet Ski or Water Scooter Rides,Parasailing,Banana Rides,Speed Boat Rides,

Bumpi Rides,Speed Boat Cruise to St. Mary’s Island,Surfing.

By Air

Mangalore International Airport is 59 km from Udupi. The airport is well-connected with major Indian cities and a few Middle-eastern destination. Prepaid taxis can be booked from the counter located inside the arrival terminal.They take approximately 1.5 hours to reach.

By Train

Udupi is a major station on the Konkan railway route. There are connections with Mumbai and Mangalore. Major trains including Rajadhani Express stop at Udupi Railway Station. A night train is available from Mangalore to Bangalore, known simply as the Mangalore-Bangalore express

By Bus

Buses regularly ply from major southern cities to Udupi. Volvo (AC buses), Airbuses or KSRTC buses are available here, choose as per your budget. Udupi has excellent city bus services run by various private companies. Buses generally start and end at the main bus stand. Bus stops are located throughout the city.

Nagarahole National Park – It Is One Of The Well Preserved Park In India

NAGARAHOLE NATIONAL PARK

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KODAGU

Nagarahole National Park is a beautiful place, located in the Kodagu and Mysore districts of the state of Karnataka. Nagarahole National Park also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park.Nagarahole National Park is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park ranges the foothills of the Western Ghats spreading down the Brahmagiri hill. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which consists of a contiguous complex of Protected Areas.

Nagarahole was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955, and the Nagarahole wildlife sanctuary was declared as a National park in 1983. The total area of the park is about 643.39 Km2. This park was declared the 37th Project Tiger Reserve in 1999.The Nagarahole National Park derives its name from two Kannada words ‘Naga’ meaning ‘snake’ and ‘Hole’ meaning ‘stream’. Naga meaning Snake and Hole referring to streams, rightfully means the place with snake.

Nagarhole National Park is counted among the well maintained national parks in India. Nagarahole is one of the best places to see Asiatic Elephants.Nagarahole is truly a delightful spot, bubbling with the activity of some of the most magnificent animals and trees. The park is dotted with enchanting greenery and forest cover, coupled with waterfalls and a wide array of wildlife.

The Western Ghats Nilgiri Sub-Cluster of about 6000 Km2, including all of Nagarahole (Rajiv Gandhi) National Park, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a Word Heritage Site.Wildlife varieties are numerous in number. Some of the common predators that can be seen include tigers, leopards, sloth bears and wild dogs. Spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, four-horned antelopes, wild boars and elephants constitute the herbivores.

Elephants and bison are other prime attractions. One can also spot animal species like jackals, striped hyena, sloth bears, mouse deer, black naped hare etc. The park also has a wide variety of birds and amphibians.The Park is open throughout the year, the monsoon period is best avoided. The ideal time to visit the Park is between October and May.

Vehicle Safari – Timing

Morning – 05:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Evening – 03:00 PM to 07:00 PM

Boat Safari – Timing

Morning – 06:30 AM to 09:15 AM

Evening – 03:30 PM to 06:15 PM

Fee

Domestic Adult: 50

Foreigner: 150

Still Camera Fee: 50

By Air

Nearest airport is Mysore airport, about 96 Km from the Nagarhole National Park. Mysore airport is well connected by road to Nagarhole National Park. Bengaluru is the closest international airport from the park at a distance of about 268 km. Flights to major Indian and International cities operate from Bengaluru.

By Rail

Nearest railway station is Mysore railway station. Mysore railway station is well connected by road to Nagarhole National Park.

By Road

Nagarhole National Park is well connected to Major Cities and Places by road network. There are a number of government and privately operated vehicles that go to Nagarhole National Park at frequent intervals.