Shimoga is the main city of Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is a culturally sound city of Karnataka. The name is derived from the term ‘ Shiva -Mukhta’. Shivamogga is the other name of the place. It is a picturesque landscape with enchanting waterfalls and lush paddy fields. The district is renowned as the ‘rice bowl of Karnataka’. The city located about 273 km southwest of Bangalore.
The region was formed during the reign of Emperor Ashoka. Shimoga was ruled by different dynasties at different point of history. Hoysals, Chalukyas, Gangas, Kadambas, Vijayanagar Kings and Mysore Maharaja, all ruled the city and left their marks. From the late 17th century, Shimoga was the part of the Mysore kingdom until the independence.
This article talks about some intriguing places to visit in Shimoga.
The beautiful Shimoga is also called the land of hills. There are enough places to explore in Shimoga. The wonderful greenery and waterfall are its main claim to fame. The hills here are the parts of the Western Ghats. With tropical wet and dry climate, from June to early October the monsoon makes Shimoga alive. Shimoga looks gorgeous during monsoon.
Jog Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the country. Originating from the Sharavathi River, Jog falls drop from a height of 253 m. The Jog Falls is also known as Gerusoppe Falls. Agumba is a lively spot and it is famous for its amazing sunset view and heavy rainfall. Summers and winters are considered as the best time to visit Agumba and experience the spectacular sunset view. Kodachadri is the highest peak of Shimoga district. It is just 120 km away from the city and it is a hill station consisting the beautiful Western Ghats. Keladi is a place where you can witness the ancient Kadamba style temples. The museum in the are houses some of the rear collections of the Nayak period. Besides, this popular spots, Tunga, Shivappa Naik Palace, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, Linganmmakki Dams and some other spots will make your trip a memorable one.
Shimoga is an ideal place for any nature lover. It is a peace lover paradise as well. With awesome sceneries, wildlife safaris and temple visiting, Shimoga is a package of memory.
The best way to travel to the place is from Bangalore. Shimoga is well-connected to Bangalore by rail, road and air. Though car journeys are preferred by most of the travellers. But it is recommended to try Bangalore to Shimoga train for a unique experience. The way to Shimoga from Bangalore by train offers a great view of the surroundings. As soon as you step in the Shimoga district the colourful and fresh environment surrounded with the Western Ghat will win your heart. Shimoga is also one of the cultural hubs of the state. The architecture, art and heritage culture of the region is well-preserved and exhibited for public viewing. Researchers, scholars and general tourists from across the globe visit Shimoga to relish the diverse culture of Karnataka.