Originally Karnataka was known as the princely State of Mysore
Karnataka was formed on 1st November 1956 and is located in the South-Western region of India. Close to the Arabian Sea and the Laccadive Sea, Karnataka is known for its beautiful yet unpopulated beaches and rich culture. The land has also seen the reign of the ancient kingdoms of the south such as the Chola, Chera, Vijaynagar, Sathavahanas, Maurya, Hoysala and many more right upto the Mighty Tipu Sultan and subsequently the British. Kannada is the main language spoken here and picking up a few local words can often be very helpful while travelling. The state is famous for its natural, cultural and architectural heritage and there are plenty of places one can visit on his/her trip to Karnataka.
Karnataka District Map
About Karnataka:
Karnataka, the eighth largest State in India is one of the most beautiful states in the country. Both in area and population Karnataka is an enormous state. The states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala surround Karnataka from all sides.
The eastern and Western Ghats that fence Karnataka are the source of many east and west flowing rivers. The most important rivers that originate from these mountains are the Krishna, Kaveri and their tributaries. Karnataka is also considered as one of the most fast growing states in the Indian subcontinent.
Karnataka, the eighth largest State in India is one of the most beautiful states in the country. Both in area and population Karnataka is an enormous state. The states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala surround Karnataka from all sides.
The eastern and Western Ghats that fence Karnataka are the source of many east and west flowing rivers. The most important rivers that originate from these mountains are the Krishna, Kaveri and their tributaries. Karnataka is also considered as one of the most fast growing states in the Indian subcontinent.
Things To Do in Karnataka
| 1 | Aihole | Aihoḷe is a village having a historic temple complex in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka, India and located 510 km from Bangalore. It lies to the east of Pattadakal, along the Malaprabha River, while Badami is to the west of both. With its collection of architectural structures, Aihoḷe temple complex is on the pending list of UNESCO World heritage sites. It is known for Chalukyan architecture, with about 125 stone temples dating from 5th century CE, and is a popular tourist spot in north Karnataka. Three temples are referred to as the 'Kontigudi group of temples'. One of these is the Lad Khan temple (the oldest at Aihole is the Lad khan temple dating back to the fifth century), named after a mendicant that lived in this temple in the 19th century, another the Huchiappayyagudi temple and the Huchiappayya math. | ||
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| 2 | Badami | Badami, formerly known as Vatapi, is a town and headquarters of a taluk by the same name, in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka, India. It is famous for its rock cut structural temples. It is located in a ravine at the foot of a rugged, red sandstone outcrop that surrounds Agastya lake. It was the regal capital of the Badami Chalukyas from 540 to 757 AD. Badami has been selected as one of the heritage cities for HRIDAY - Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of Government of India. Landmarks in Badami include cave temples, gateways, forts, inscriptions and sculptures. A Buddhist cave in a natural setting that can be entered only by crawling on knees., The Bhootnath temple, a small shrine, facing the lake, constructed in 5th century., Upper Bhootnath Temple located opposite the Badami Caves., Badami Fort situated on top of the hill., Many Shivalayas including the Malegatti Shivalaya with 7th century origins., The Dattatreya temple., The Mallikarjuna temple dating back to the 11th century, built on a star shaped plan., a Dargah, a dome of an Islamic place of worship on the south fort side., Vista points on top of the North Fort for the view of the ancient town below., Temple of Banashankari, a Kuladevata (family deity) for many families, is located near Badami., Archaeological museum, that has collection of sculptures from Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal. Badami is famous for its sandstone cave temples. Cave temple 1 may be the oldest in Badami. It is made of red sandstone and has a hall with numerous pillars and a square shaped sanctum hollowed in the control back wall. There are paintings of amorous couples on the ceiling. Other features include Shiva and his wife Parvathi with a coiled serpent and the 18 armed lord Nataraja in 81 dancing poses. Cave temple 2 is dedicated to Vishnu (as Trivikrama) with one foot mastering the Earth and the other the sky. Vishnu is also portrayed as Varaha and Krishna. Cave temple 3 dates back to 578 AD. The façade of the cave is nearly 70 feet wide, with carvings of ganas on the plinth. It contains examples of Deccan art, illustrating the culture and clothing of the 6th century. There are high relief carvings of Vishnu with a serpent, Vishnu as Narasimha, Varaha, Harihara and Trivikrama. Cave temple 4 relates to 6th century Jainism. There is a carving of the Tirthankara Parshvanatha (with a serpent at his feet). Mahavira is depicted in a sitting posture. Tourism Badami Cave-I the first shrine has at its entrance Shiva’s door keepers; to the right inside is the figure of Shiva of about five feet height and in the tandava dancing pose with 18 arms. Beside him are Nandi, dancing Ganapati, etc. There is a neatly carved perfect figure of Mahishasuramardini and several other rock –cut dwarf images of kubja ganas, Nagaraja or snake king, Vidhyadhara couple, etc., are on the ceiling. | ||
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| 3 | Bangalore | Bangalore is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of about 8.42 million and a metropolitan population of about 8.52 million, making it the third most populous city and fifth most populous urban agglomeration in India. Located in southern India on the Deccan Plateau, at a height of over 900 m (3,000 ft) above sea level, Bangalore is known for its pleasant climate throughout the year. Its elevation is the highest among the major cities of India. A succession of South Indian dynasties, the Western Gangas, the Cholas and the Hoysalas, ruled the present region of Bangalore until in 1537 CE, Kempé Gowda – a feudal ruler under the Vijayanagara Empire – established a mud fort considered to be the foundation of modern Bangalore. In 1638, the Marathas conquered and ruled Bangalore for almost 50 years, after which the Mughals captured and sold the city to the Mysore Kingdom of the Wadiyar dynasty. It was captured by the British after victory in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799), who returned administrative control of the city to the Maharaja of Mysore. The old city developed in the dominions of the Maharaja of Mysore and was made capital of the Princely State of Mysore, which existed as a nominally sovereign entity of the British Raj. In 1809, the British shifted their cantonment to Bangalore, outside the old city, and a town grew up around it, which was governed as part of British India. Following India's independence in 1947, Bangalore became the capital of Mysore State, and remained capital when the new Indian state of Karnataka was formed in 1956. The two urban settlements of Bangalore – city and cantonment – which had developed as independent entities merged into a single urban centre in 1949. The existing Kannada name, Bengaluru, was declared the official name of the city in 2006. Bangalore is sometimes referred to as the "Silicon Valley of India" (or "IT capital of India") because of its role as the nation's leading information technology (IT) exporter. Indian technological organisations ISRO, Infosys, Wipro and HAL are headquartered in the city. A demographically diverse city, Bangalore is the second fastest-growing major metropolis in India. It is home to many educational and research institutions in India, such as Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Indian Institute of Management (Bangalore) (IIMB), National Institute of Fashion Technology, Bangalore, National Institute of Design, Bangalore (NID R&D Campus), National Law School of India University (NLSIU) and National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS). Numerous state-owned aerospace and defence organisations, such as Bharat Electronics, Hindustan Aeronautics and National Aerospace Laboratories are located in the city. The city also houses the Kannada film industry. With a gross domestic product (GDP) of $83 billion, Bangalore is ranked fourth in India by overall GDP contribution, after only Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. | ||
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| 4 | Belur | Belooru is a Town Municipal Council and taluka in Hassan district in the state of Karnataka, India. The town is renowned for its Chennakesava Temple, one of the finest examples of Hoysala workmanship. Home to the Hoysala temple complex. The Chennakeshava temple here was completed in 1116 by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana. The temple is 37 meters tall and is standing on a platform which has exquisite art work on its outer walls and bracket figures of dancing girls in various poses in perfect proportion. There are shrines of Kappe Chenniga Andal, Saumya Nayaki etc. The temple here is a classic example of Hoysala art, and Belur was one of the Hoysala Capitals. Halebidu: It is 16 km from Belur, was capital of Hoysala and it was formerly called as Dwarasamudra. It has one of the finest Hoysala temples said to have been started by Ketamalla, a commander of Vishnuvardhana in 1121. The twin Shiva Temples with a common platform and two garbhagrihas, one houses for Vishnuvardhana Hoysaleshwara Linga and the other for Shanthaleshwara Linga. In front of Hoysaleshwara is the Nandimantapa and behind that is shrine of Surya with a two-meter-tall image. Outer walls have rows of intricate figures narrating episodes from epics like Ramyana, Mahabartha, and Bhagavata. | ||
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| 5 | Belgaum | Belgaum is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. Officially known as Belagavi, and earlier known "Venugrama" or the "Bamboo Village". It is the administrative headquarters of the eponymous Belgaum division and Belgaum district. The Government of Karnataka has proposed making Belgaum the second capital of Karnataka, hence a second state administrative building Suvarna Vidhana Soudha was inaugurated on 11 October 2012. Belgaum has selected in first phase out of 20 cities, as one of the hundred Indian cities to be developed as a smart city under PM Narendra Modi's flagship Smart Cities Mission. Belgaum is 502 km from Bengaluru and 154 km from Panaji. Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats, it enjoys a cool, salubrious climate and is surrounded by natural beauty in the form of rivers, hills and dense evergreen forests. In the vicinity there are popular tourists places like Amboli, Sindhudurg district and Jamboti. A wide variety of historical sites, temples and churches exist in and around the city, most notably the Kamala Basti fort, Kapileshwar temple (South Kashi), the hills of Vaijyanath, Ramtirth waterfalls, Revan Siddeshwr Temple at Hunshevari in the valleys of Kakati, Siddeshwar Temple in Kanbargi, the aerodrome at Sambra,kittur fort,Suvarna soudha. Belgaum Fort, a huge construction in the centre of the town. It dates back to 1519. The foundation of the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha, a legislative administrative office complex, was laid in Belgaum in August 2007 to celebrate the golden jubilee celebrations of the unification of Karnataka. Kamal Basati is a Jain temple located within the walls of Belgaum fort.It has a Neminatha idol in black stone (idol found in a forest nearby) is deified on a stone carved pedestal here as Moolnayak. It was built in the Chalukyan style in 1204 AD.The pillars that support the roof with the lotus pendant are founded on plinths. Some pillars made of black basaltic stones (said to have magnetic characteristics) are highly polished. It is named as the Kamal Basadi since the tower of the temple depicts kamal (lotus) with 72 petals, which presently displays images of the past 24 Tirthankaras but can also depict the present and future thirthankars.Other idols seen in the temple are of: Bhagwan Sumatinath in the kayotsarga posture, Bhagwan Parshvanath under the shade of seven-hooded serpent (Nagaraj), Bhagwan Adinath in the padmasana posture and the Navagraha. Chikki Basadi though in ruins now, was once considered as a “remarkable piece of Jain architecture”. Hunshevari, the holy place of the "Shree Revan Siddeshwar Temple", in the valleys of Kakati village, 7 km from Belgaum on the Pune-Bangalore national highway. Siddeshwar Temple in Kanabargi village is a famous temple in a hill cave. Yellur Gad, on a hill surrounded by a circular wall, is a popular location visible from a long distance. The handloom cottage industries and silk weavers located in Vadgaon and Angol are known for exquisitely designed saris. The Belgaum Cantonment Area with its lush cover of greenery. The MLIRC (Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre) is also based here. Jamboti, 25 km south-west of Belgaum, is a popular tourist spot with its evergreen hilltop forests. Vajrapoha Falls on the Mandovi River are 26 km from Belgaum. Godchinamalaki Falls is a popular destination about 60 km from Belgaum. The falls are approximately 100 metres in length, with a stepwise fall every 30 metres. Gokak Falls is yet another resplendent waterfall 62 km from Belgaum and 6 km from Gokak town. Amboli hill station (Maharashtra) is a little known coastal highland area, around 70 km from Belgaum, popular during the monsoon season with its thick forests, curving misty ghats and shades of vibrant green. Asha Kiran Planetarium, School of Astronomy and Audio-Visual Education Research Centre, located in Ganeshpur. Dudhsagar Water Falls, around 80 km from Belgaum, is a scenic waterfall. The spot also provides various options for trekkers. The best time to visit is during or soon after the Monsoon. International Golf Course (18-hole) at Desur, 10 km from the city. Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary (Khanapur) Anshi National Park (Karwar, Khanapur) Swami Vivekananand Smarak a tourist place in Belgaum at a very peaceful location. Mal Maruti Temple, one of the best Hanuman temples, with a Udbhava Murty carving Kalavati Aai temple (Hari mandir) Siddeshwar Temple from Nagaramunnoli, which is very famous in Belgaum. Sulebhavi Mahalakshmi Temple is 20 km away from Belgaum. Military Hindalga Ganapati Templ, at Raichur–Vengurla Highway (State Highway 20 (Karnataka)) Veera Soudha, also known as congress well, is a beautiful memorial and garden within the city limits. Halasi near Khanapur is a historical place famous for its monuments and temple. One can also visit Buthramanhatti Park, Hidkal Dam, jungles, and many waterfalls quite close to the city. | ||
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| 6 | Basavakalyan | Basavakalyan is a town in Bidar District of the state of Karnataka, India, and was historically known as Kalyan. At Jalasangvi, Narayanapura and Shivapura there are temples of the Chalukya dynasty. Basaveshvara temple is at the centre of Basavakalyana. There are some Islamic monuments Moti Mahal, Hydari Mahal, Peeran Durga. And other religious places such as Gachchina Matha, Kambali Matha and Sadananda Matha. Basavakalyana Fort was constructed by Chalukyas. It includes Jain images on its walls. There is museum in a side fort and there are Jain idols of the 10th-11th century. | ||
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| 7 | Bidar | Bidar is a hill top city in the north-eastern part of Karnataka state in south India. The city is well known for its many sites of architectural, historical and religious importance. Bidar is symbolically described as City of Whispering Monuments. It is the headquarters of the Bidar District which borders Maharashtra and Telangana. It is a rapidly urbanising city which comes under Bidar Metropolitan area. Being located at the farthest of around 700 km (430 mi) from the state capital Bengaluru, it has been neglected by the state government for a long time. However, owing to its rich heritage, the city has a prominent place on the Archaeological Map of India. Picturesquely perched on the Deccan plateau, the Bidar fort is more than 500 years old and still standing strong. According to the book "Bidar Heritage" published by the state Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, of the 61 monuments listed by the department, about 30 are tombs located in and around Bidar city. This explains the nickname - The City of Whispering Monuments. The heritage sites in and around Bidar have become the major attraction for film shooting in recent years with Bollywood making visits apart from kannada film industry. Bidar is home for the second biggest Indian Air Force training centre in the country. The IAF Station Bidar is used for advanced jet training of prospective fighter pilots on BAe Hawk aircraft. Bidar city is known for its Bidri handicraft products, and its rich history. Bidar is also considered one of the holiest place for Sikh pilgrimage. Unlike other places in the region, Bidar is the coldest and wettest place in north Karnataka. For the year 2009-10, Bidar was ranked 22nd among the cleanest cities in India, and 5th cleanest in Karnataka. SH4 passes through Bidar and the whole city is integrated with 4 lane road. Ancient Karez System in the city have been recently discovered. The Karez (Qanat) is an underground network of aqueducts for water supply. The Bidar Karez, built in the 15th century, is more than 3 km (1.9 mi) long with 21 air vents. Underground canals, built to connect underground water streams, were meant to provide drinking water to civilian settlements and the garrison inside the Bidar fort. This was necessary in a city where the soil was rocky and drilling wells was difficult. The mountaintop town that served as the capital of medieval Deccan, has 98 monuments of which four national monuments are protected by the Archaelogical Survey of India and 14 by the State Archaeology Department, Karnataka. Bidar earned a place on the World Monument Watchlist 2014. Of the 741 proposals received from 166 countries, 67 sites from 41 countries were finally selected which were announced by WMF president Bonnie Burnham in New York on October 8, 2013. Along with "the historic city of Bidar", two other sites in India to figure in the list were the house of Sheikh Salim Chisti in Fatehpur Sikri and Juna Mahal in Rajasthan. The WMF in its current watch site for "the historic city of Bidar" says ″challenges to the site include a lack of integrated conservation and maintenance, environmental pollution, and the construction of new developments and roadways that encroach on the historic fabric. Current land use regulations also threaten the economic livelihood of many of the city's residents, and it is hoped that revised, context-specific planning policies would both protect Bidar's historic assets while also supporting the future of its local population. It is hoped that Watch-listing will spur documentation and analysis of the city's conditions, followed by policy development and applied conservation interventions that will reveal and maintain Bidar's rich heritage, as well as support a robust and sustainable tourist industry. Bidar has connectivity with Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Sainagar Shirdi, Aurangabad, Nanded, Manmad and Mumbai (according to railway budget 2014-15) Construction of the Gulbarga-Bidar link is in progress which is expected to be operational by the end of 2015. Bidar-Hyderabad inter-city train service became operative in September 2012. A Bidar-Yeshwantpur (Daily) express train[46] and Bidar-LTT Mumbai express train service has been started recently. | ||
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| 8 | Bijapur | Bijapur officially known as Vijayapura, is the district headquarters of Bijapur District of Karnataka state. It is also the headquarters for Bijapur Taluka. Bijapur city is well known for its historical monuments of architectural importance built during the rule of the Adil Shahi dynasty. Bijapur, the land of five rivers and the domain of different cultures, is an ancient city. The city established in the 10th and 11th centuries by the Chalukyas of Kalyani was known as Vijayapura (City of victory). Bijapur was the biggest district place of the state with 11 taluks, but after forming Bagalokote new district in 1997 Now it consists of five taluks viz. Basavan Bagevadi, Bijapur, Indi, Muddebihal and Sindagi. The city was established in the 10th-11th centuries by the Kalyani Chalukyas and was known as Vijayapura (City of victory). The city was passed to Yadavas after Chalukya's demise. The city came under the influence of the Khilji Sultanate in Delhi by the late 13th century. In 1347, the area was conquered by the Bahmani Sultanate of Gulbarga. By this time, the city was being referred as Bijapur. In an introduction to an album of Bijapur published in 1866, Philip Meadows Taylor wrote: “Palaces, arches, tombs, cisterns, gateways, minarets, ...all carved from the rich basalt rock of the locality, garlanded by creepers, broken and disjointed by peepul trees, each in its turn is a gem of art and the whole a treasury.” This is the most famous monument in Bijapur. It is the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah (ruled 1627-1657). It is the largest dome ever built in India, next in size only to St Peter's Basilica in Rome. A particular attraction in this monument is the central chamber, where every sound is echoed seven times. Another attraction at the Gol Gumbaz is the Whispering Gallery, where even minute sounds can be heard clearly 37 metres away. Gol Gumbaz complex includes a mosque, a Naqqar Khana (a hall for the trumpeters) (Now it is used as museum) and the ruins of guest houses. | ||
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| 9 | Devanahalli | Devanahalli is a town and Town Municipal Council in Bangalore Rural district in the state of Karnataka in India. With significant commercial and residential development in the area, real estate is in high demand in the region. Devanahalli was the birthplace of Tipu Sultan, popularly known as the 'Tiger of Mysore'. Devanahalli is just an hour's drive from Bangalore. There has been a growth of tourist traffic recently due to the impetus provided by the Bangalore International Airport. Devanahalli fort, spread over an area of 20 acres that includes twelve bastions is a magnificent reminder of the power that the ruling dynasties held since the 15th century. There are numerous temples with in the fort with impeccable architecture. Of all the temples, the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The courtyard is spacious. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. The temple is a protected monument under Archaeological Survey of India. Near by Siddhalingeshwara swami temple is equally popular. Chandramouleshwara temple, Nanjundeshwara temple, Veerabhadraswami temple, Ranganathaswamy temple, Kalamma temple, Raghavendraswamy matha, Mahantha Matha, Balagopala (old), Nagareshwara and Basaveshwara are other places of worship.[8][9] There is large pond known as Sarovara said to have been built by Deewan Purnaiah of Mysore kingdom and the Anjaneya in the Shrine near to it is called Sarovaranjaneya. Within the fort there is the house in which Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan called home, where Tipu was supposedly born. There is a memorial now at the birthplace of Tipu Sultan little outside the fort. It is about six feet tall with a pillared enclosure and square top and bears a stone tablet. It has an enclosure. The area called Khas Bagh, now contains many tamarind trees, a few mango trees and a small dried pond. It was once an enchanting spot, being Tipu's private park. | ||
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| 10 | Gulbarga | Gulbarga (officially Kalaburagi) is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka, India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Gulbarga District and a major city of the North Karnataka region. Gulbarga is 623 km north of the state capital of Bangalore and 220 km from Hyderabad. Previously it was the part of Hyderabad State, it was incorporated into a newly formed Mysore State (now known as Karnataka) through the States Reorganisation Act in 1956. Gulbarga is famous for toordal or Pigeon pea and the limestone deposits . As per data released by Govt. of India for Census 2011, Gulbarga is an Urban Agglomeration coming under category of Class I UAs/Towns. Gulbarga city is governed by Municipal Corporation and is in Gulbarga Urban Region. It is a rapidly urbanising city which comes under Gulbarga Metropolitan area. The city is well known for its many places of architectural, historical and religious importance. It is called one of the Sufi cities having famous religious places, like Khwaja Banda Nawaz Dargah and Ladle Mashak in Aland taluk of Gulbarga District. Every year during urs of hazrat banda nawaz people come from all India, far cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, etc. and it has many other famous places like Sharana Basaveshwara Temple and Buddha Vihar. It also has a fort built during Bahmani rule. Has many domes like Hafth Gumbad (seven domes together) and Chor Gumbad. | ||
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| 11 | Gokak | Gokak is a taluka headquarters in the Belagavi District of Karnataka state, India. Gokak is surrounded on one side by a range of hills, and on the other side by a vast plain of black soil. It is located around 70 km from Belagavi at the confluence of two rivers, the Ghataprabha and the Markandeya. The population of the town is according to 2011 census is approximately 135,773. The common language in use is Kannada. The river Ghataprabha flows from the north side of the city and cascades down through a cleft of 167 ft, to form Gokak Falls before flowing through the town. Since the colonial era, the a hydroelectric station under the waterfall has been used to power Gokak Mills, one of the largest manufacturers and exporters of yarn in India. The river Markandeya, a tributary of the Ghataprabha, dashes down through 43 ft step wise hill plates to form Goduchinamalaki Falls. Gokak is located 540 km from Bangalore and 190 km from Panaji. Nestled in the hilly terrain of the central Belagavi region, it enjoys a moderately warm climate and is surrounded by mountainous vegetation and rivers. The city is surrounded by number of historic buildings and Temples. | ||
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| 12 | Dharmasthala | Dharmasthala is an Indian temple town on the banks of the Nethravathi River in the Belthangadi taluk of the Dakshina Kannada district in Karnataka, India. Dharmasthala Temple is an 800-year-old religious institution. It is also a panchayat village, and it is the only village in its gram panchayat. The town is known for its Dharmasthala Temple which houses the shrine of Shiva, Manjunatha, Ammanavaru, Chandranath and the Dharma Daivas (guardian spirits of Dharma) namely Kalarahu, Kalarkayi, Kumaraswamy and Kanyakumari. The temple is unusual in that it is run by a Jain administration and poojas are conducted by Hindu priests of Madhva order. Lakshadeepa, the festival of lights, is the annual festival of Dharmasthala in November–December. On an average the flow of pilgrims is about 10,000 people a day. A mechanised kitchen provides free food for all pilgrims and there are guest houses with modern amenities. Dharmastala represents religious tolerance. A Jain Tirthankara is worshipped beside Daivas and Lord Manjunatha (Shiva). The priests are Vaishnavite Brahmins and the guardian of the temple a Heggade (Jain). To those who come here for justice, the Heggade dispenses judgements that are said to represent the will of the deities. | ||
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| 13 | Halebidu | Halebidu is located in Hassan District, Karnataka, India. It is home to some of the best examples of Hoysala architecture. Most notable are the ornate Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara temples. Halebidu (which used to be called Dorasamudra or Dwarasamudra) was the regal capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century. The city got the name "Halebidu" because it was ransacked two times during the invasion of Malik Kafur. The temple complex comprises two Hindu temples, the Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara temples and two Jain basadi. In front of these temples there is a large lake. The two Nandi images on the sides of the Hoysaleswara temple are monoliths. Soapstone (chloritic schist) was used for the construction of these temples. There is an archeological museum in the temple complex. The Hoysaleswara temple, dating back to the 1121 C.E., is astounding for its wealth of sculptural details. The walls of the temple are covered with an endless variety of depictions from Hindu mythology, animals, birds and shilabalikas or dancing figures. No two sculptures of the temple are the same. This temple, guarded by a Nandi bull, was never completed, despite 86 years of labour. The Jain basadi nearby are equally rich in sculptural detail. The Parshvanatha Basadi was built by Boppadeva in 1133AD during the reign of Vishnuvardhana by Boppana, the son of the famous Gangaraja who was a minister under Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana. There is an 18 ft tall Parshvanatha theerthankara statue inside the Basadi made of black granite stone. Sculpture of Yaksha Dharanendra and Yakshi Padmavati present in mahamandapa.[4] The Shantinatha Basadi was built around 1192 A.D., during the reign of Ballala II. There is an 18 ft. tall statue of Shantinatha. This temple is now being proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. | ||
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| 14 | Hampi | Hampi is a village and temple town recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed as the Group of Monuments at Hampi in northern Karnataka, India. It was one of the richest and largest cities in the world during its prime. It is located within the ruins of the city of Vijayanagara, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Predating the city of Vijayanagara, Hampi continues to be an important religious centre, housing the Virupaksha Temple and several other monuments belonging to the old city. According to statistics of 2014, Hampi is the most searched historical place in Karnataka on Google. The empire boasted a massive army comprising close to two million men. In around 1500 AD Vijaynagar had about 500,000 inhabitants (supporting 0.1% of the global population during 1440-1540), making it the second largest city in the world after Beijing and almost thrice the size of Paris. | ||
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| 15 | Kollur | Kolluru or Kollur is a small temple-town in Kundapur Taluk in Udupi district of Karnataka state, India. This village lies at the foot of the Western Ghats and is famous for the Mookambika temple, a Hindu pilgrim center. It is situated about 38 km from Kundapur town. Kollur also called Kollapura one of the important places of pilgrimage in Karnataka State, which has a temple dedicated to Mookambika. The goddess is called Mookambika as she is said to have slain the demon Mookasura. The goddess is described as in the form of a jyotirlinga incorporating both Shiva and Shakti. The panchaloha image of the goddess on Shri Chakra is stated to have been consecrated by Shri Adi Shankaracharya. The Divine Mother is said to be a manifestation of trigunas or triple forms. The shikhara of the temple which is well gilded with gold is said to have been donated by Sankanna Savantha. Around the chief shrine of Mookambika, there are many other shrines. The idol of Chandramaulishvara is said to have been installed by Shri Adi Shankara. The temple has been renovated by Keladi rulers. The temple of Mookambika and other shrines attract a large number of pilgrims from other states too. Kollur is an important seat of Shakti worship. The temple is rich in puranic lore. Legend goes that a Maharishi (monk) Kola was enchanted with nature’s beauty and decided to perform a penance on a rock near the Agnitheertham. Lord Shiva, delighted with Kola, appeared before him and blessed him. The Maharishi wished for the welfare of mankind and nothing else. The Lord, happy with Kola, granted him his wish. He assured that a swayambu (autogenetic) Linga would appear for his daily worship. However, Kola wanted to worship Devi also. So, a swarna rekha (gold line) appeared on the Lingam, signifying Shakti. Thus, Shiva and Shakti are worshipped together in the Lingam. Besides this, a unique feature is that the other Gods and Goddess of the Hindu pantheon also believed to reside in aroopa (non-form) in the Linga. It is thus believed to be an abode of the entire celestial congregation. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya had a vision of Sri Mookambika Devi and installed the deity here. The legend goes that Adi Shankara meditated at Kodachadri hills and Devi incarnated before him asking for his wish. He revealed his wish to install the Devi idol in a place in Kerala to worship where he wanted. Devi agreed but put forward a challenge that she will follow Shankara and he should not look back till he reaches his destination. But to test Shankara, Devi deliberately stopped the voice of her anklets when they reached Kollur whereupon Shankara turned and looked back because of doubt. Devi then asked Shankara to install her vigraha, just as he sees her, at that very location in Kollur. Another legend says that original temple is at Kodachadri peak,(1343 mt) which is at a distance of about 20 km from Kollur, also visible as a large mountain peak in front of the temple. There also a small temple dedicated to Mookambika near Kodachadri peak. Kollur is believed to be one of the seven pilgrim centres created by Parashurama, a Hindu mythological figure. The temple is devoted to the Hindu goddess Parvathi, wife of Shiva. While the other pilgrimages created by Parashurama are devoted to Lord Shiva, Lord Subramanya and Lord Ganesha, this one is devoted to goddess Parvathi. The temple is constructed on the banks of a tributary of Souparnika River and in the middle of a forest. Just in front of the temple, Kodachadri peak and mountain is visible, which is a delightful sight. It is believed that original temple is on top of Kodachadri peak, and to make it convenient for devotees to offer pooja, the temple is constructed at Kollur. Devotees from all over South India visit this temple. Many pilgrims from Kerala visit the temple and perform vidyaarambham during Vijayadasami here. | ||
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| 16 | Moodabidri | Moodabidri is a town in Dakshina Kannada district. It lies 34 km northeast of the district headquarters, Mangalore city, in Karnataka, India. Because of widely grown bamboo in ancient days, this place got named as Moodabidri. Moodabidri comes from two words: Moodu and Bidiru. Moodu means East and Bidiru means bamboo. | ||
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| 17 | Mangalore | Mangalore now officially known as Mangaluru, is the chief port city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It is known as Mangaluru in Kannada, Kudla in Tulu, Kodial in Konkani, Maikala in Beary. It is located about 352 kilometres (220 mi) west of the state capital, Bangalore between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghat mountain ranges. It is the administrative headquarters of the Dakshina Kannada (formerly South Canara) district in south western Karnataka. It developed as a port on the Arabian Sea—remaining, to this day, a major port of India. Lying on the backwaters of the Netravati and Gurupura rivers, Mangalore is often used as a staging point for sea traffic along the Malabar Coast. The city has a tropical climate and lies in the path of the Arabian Sea branch of the South-West monsoons. Mangalore's port handles 75 per cent of India's coffee and cashew exports. Mangalore was ruled by several major powers, including the Kadambas, Alupas, Vijayanagar Empire, Keladi Nayaks and the Portuguese. The city was a source of contention between the British and the Mysore rulers, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Eventually annexed by the British in 1799, Mangalore remained part of the Madras Presidency until India's independence in 1947. The city was unified with the state of Mysore (now called Karnataka) in 1956. Mangalore is the largest city in Dakshina Kannada district and is one of the most cosmopolitan non-metro cities of India. It is also the largest city in the Coastal and Malnad regions of Karnataka, besides being a leading commercial, industrial, educational and healthcare hub on the West Coast. Mangalore city urban agglomeration extends from Ullal in the south to Mulki in the north, covering a distance of over 40 km. The city's landscape is characterised by rolling hills, coconut palms, freshwater streams and hard red-clay tiled-roof buildings. Mangalore ranks amongst the cleanest cities in India. The city was ranked India's 13th and Karnataka's second most favourable destination for business. Mangalore will be developed as a smart city under PM Narendra Modi's flagship Smart Cities Mission. | ||
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| 18 | Madikeri | Madikeri is a hill station town in Karnataka state, India. Also known as Mercara, it is the headquarters of the district of Kodagu (also called Coorg). It is a popular tourist destination. Raja Seat: This is a small square viewing spot like a mantapa in brick and mortar of four pillars bridged by arches, enhanced by beautiful surroundings. This spot was a favourite place of recreation for the Rajas and hence was permanently associated with them. It is built on a high level ground with a commanding view of the cliffs and valleys to the west. Madikeri Fort: This fort was first built by Mudduraja in the last quarter of the 17th century. He also built a palace inside the fort. It was eventually rebuilt in granite by Tipu Sultan who named the site as Zafarabad. In 1790, Doddavira Rajendra took control of the fort. The British added to the fort in 1834. The palace was renovated by Linga Rajendra II between 1812 and 1814. In the north-east corner at the entrance are two life size masonry elephants, and a church is present in the south-east corner. There is a famous Lord Ganesha temple known as "Kote ganapathi" just at the main entrance of the fort. Omkareshwar Temple: Located at the heart of the Town, Omkareshwara temple was built by king Linga Rajendra II in 1820. The temple has both Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture, built around a central pool. It is said Linga Rajendra killed an honest and pious Brahmin to fulfill his political ambitions. That Brahmin became a "Brahmarakshasa" and started troubling the king. In order to purify himself for the killing of a Brahmin, he was advised to construct a temple to Lord Shiva. He brought a Shivalinga from Kashi, and the temple was built and named "Omkareshwara". St. Mark's Church: This dis-used church is located within the Mercara Fort, Coorg, India and was raised in 1859, by the officers and men of the East India Company and funded by the Government of Madras, under the Church of England in India, Diocese of Madras. The Church was closed after Indian independence, and taken over by the Government of Karnataka in 1971. The building now houses the Madikeri Fort Museum, managed by the Karnataka State Archaeological Department. Abbey Falls is a waterfall situated 6km from Madikeri town | ||
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| 19 | Shravanabelagola | Shravanabelagola is a city located near Channarayapatna of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. The Gommateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola is one of the most important tirthas (pilgrimage destinations) in Jainism, one that reached a peak in architectural and sculptural activity under the patronage of Western Ganga dynasty of Talakad. It is 158 km from Bengaluru, the capital of the state. Chandragupta Maurya is said to have died here in 298 BCE after he became a Jain monk and assumed an ascetic life style. Shravanabelagola is located at 12 km to the south-east of Channarayapatna in the Channarayapatna taluk of Hassan district of Karnataka. It is at a distance of 51 km south-east of Hassan, Karnataka, the district centre. It is situated at a distance of 12 km to the south from the Bangalore-Mangalore road (NH-48), 17 km from Hirisave, 78 km from Halebidu, 89 km from Belur, 83 km from Mysuru, 158 km from Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka and 233 km from Mangalore. | ||
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| 20 | Murudeshwara | Murudeshwara is a town in Bhatkal Taluk of Uttara Kannada district in the state of Karnataka, India. Famous for the world's second tallest Shiva statue, the town lies on the coast of the Arabian Sea and is also famous for the Murudeshwara Temple. Murudeshwara has a railway station on the Mangalore-Mumbai Konkan railway route. Murudeshwara is another name of the Hindu god Shiva. Murudeshwara Temple and Raja Gopura: This temple is built on the Kanduka Hill which is surrounded on three sides by the waters of the Arabian Sea. It is dedicated to Shiva, and a 20-storied gopura is constructed at the temple. The temple authorities have installed a lift that provides a breath-taking view of the 123-feet Shiva idol from the top of the Raja gopura. There is also a Rameshwara linga at the bottom of the hill, where devotees can do seva themselves. A Shaneswara temple has been built next to the idol of Shiva. Two life-size elephants in concrete stand guard at the steps leading to it. The entire temple and temple complex, including the 237.5-feet-tall Raja Gopura, is one among the tallest, was constructed to its present form by businessman and philanthropist R. N. Shetty. The temple is entirely modernised with exception of the sanctum sanctorum which is still dark and retains its composure. The main deity is Sri Mridesa Linga, also called Murudeshwara. The linga is believed to be a piece of the original Atma Linga and is about two feet below ground level. The devotees performing special sevas like Abhisheka, Rudrabhisheka, Rathotsava etc., can view the deity by standing before the threshold of the sanctum and the Linga is illuminated by oil lamps held close by the priests. The Linga is essentially a rough rock inside a hollowed spot in the ground. Entry into the sanctum is banned for all devotees. Statue of great Lord Shiva: A huge towering statue of Lord Shiva, visible from great distances, is present in the temple complex. It is the second highest statue of Lord Shiva in the world. The tallest Shiva statue is in Nepal known as the(Kailashnath Mahadev Statue). The statue is 123 feet (37 m) in height and took about two years to build. The statue was built by Shivamogga's Kashinath and several other sculptors, financed by businessman and philanthropist Dr. R.N. Shetty, at a cost of approximately Rs 50 million. The idol is designed such that it gets the sunlight directly and thus appears sparkling. | ||
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| 21 | Mysore | Mysore officially renamed as Mysuru, is the second most populous and also the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, India. According to the provisional results of the 2011 national census of India, the population is 887,446. Mysore City Corporation is responsible for the civic administration of the city, which is also the headquarters of the Mysore district and the Mysore division. Located at the base of the Chamundi Hills about 146 km (91 mi) southwest of the state capital Bangalore, it is spread across an area of 128.42 km2 (50 sq mi). Mysore served as the capital city of Kingdom of Mysore for nearly six centuries, from 1399 until 1947. The Kingdom was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty, except for a brief period in the late 18th century when Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan were in power. Patrons of art and culture, the Wodeyars contributed significantly to the cultural growth of the city. The cultural ambience and achievements of Mysore earned it the sobriquet Cultural capital of Karnataka. Mysore is noted for its palaces, including the Mysore Palace, and for the festivities that take place during the Dasara festival when the city receives a large number of tourists. It lends its name to the Mysore style of painting, the sweet dish Mysore Pak, the Mysore Peta (a traditional silk turban) and the garment known as the Mysore silk saree. Tourism is the major industry alongside the traditional industries. Mysore depends on rail and bus transport for inter-city connections. The city was the location of the first private radio station in India. Mysore houses Mysore University, which has produced several notable authors, particularly in the field of Kannada literature. Cricket and lawn tennis are the most popular sports in the city. | ||
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| 22 | Sringeri | Sringeri, also written as Shringeri is a hill town and Taluk headquarters located in Chikkamagaluru district in the state of Karnataka. Sringeri is home to a number of historic temples. Of these, Sri Sharadamba temple and Sri Vidyashankara temple and parshwanath jain temple are very prominent.Other historic temples nearby are Hornadu, Kollur and Kalasa. It is the site of the first maṭha (Sringeri Sharada Peeta) established by Adi Shankara, Hindu theologian and exponent of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, in the 8th century CE It is located on the banks of the river Tungā and also a historical Temple (1200 years). Sringeri can also be reached from Mangalore which is at distance of 105 kilometers by road via Karkala. KSRTC operates AC and Non AC luxury buses from Bengaluru. Other travels like SRS and Sugama operate buses from Bengaluru. Sringeri is situated at a distance of 86 kilometres from Chikmagalur by road. Chikkamagaluru is connected to Bengaluru and other cities through road and a rail line via Kadur. It is 95 km from Shimoga which is connected to Bengaluru through Bus and Rail routes. Private buses are operated from Sringeri to Shimoga with good frequency. Udupi is at distance of 80 km via Hebri and Agumbe. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport at Mangalore. | ||
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| 23 | Pattadakal | Pattadakal, also spelled Paṭṭadakallu, is an UNESCO inscribed World Heritage site. It is a village and an important tourist centre in the state of Karnataka and is located on the left bank of the Malaprabha River in Bagalakote. UNESCO in 1987 included Pattadakal in its list of World Heritage sites. The group of 8th century monuments in Pattadakal are the culmination of the earliest experiments in the vesara style of Hindu temple architecture. The town displays both Dravidian (Southern) and the Nagara (Northern) styles of temple architecture. It is 22 km from Badami, and about 10 km from Aihole, both of which are well known for Chalukya monuments. It is 514 km from Bengaluru. | ||
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| 24 | Bellary | Bellary is a historic city in Ballari district in Karnataka state, India. It is 306 kilometres from Bangalore, the state capital. Bellary Fort is located on top of Ballari Gudda ("Fort Hill"). The fort was built around the hill during Vijayanagara times by Hande Hanumappa Nayaka. Hyder Ali, who took possession of the fort from the Hande Nayaka family in 1769, renovating and modifying it with the help of a French engineer. The lower fort was added by Hyder Ali around the eastern half of the hill. Legend has it that the unfortunate French engineer was hanged for overlooking the fact that the neighbouring Kumbara Gudda is taller than Ballari Gudda, thus compromising the secrecy and command of the fort. His grave is believed to be located near the east gate of the fort, though some locals believe it to be the grave of a Muslim holy man instead. The fort was ranked as 1st class by the British Administration. This fort gave Bellary its ancient importance, and led to its selection by the British rulers as the site for a cantonment. The main building of VIMS ((Vijayanagar Institute of Medical Sciences)) Originally a part of the British cantonment's infantry barracks, this building was later converted into a military jail, called the Alipore (Allipura) jail, towards the end of the 19th century. The jail lodged prisoners of war from various First World War theatres, including France, Denmark and Turkey. Even the crown prince of Turkey was an inmate of the jail; his body was buried in Bellary's Turkish martyrs' cemetery. In 1920, this military jail became an additional civilian prison, Bellary Central Jail, when over 2,000 Mappilas from Travancore were imprisoned there. Famous personalities of the freedom movement were imprisoned, such as C. Rajagopalachari, V. V. Giri, Tekur Subramanyam, Kamaraj Nadar, Potti Sri Ramulu, Neelam Sanjiva Reddy, Bezawada Gopala Reddy, E.V. Ramasamy, O. V. Alagesan, Bulusu Sambamurti and Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao. This jail was closed (the only other in the subcontinent to be closed, apart from the Cellular Jail at Port Blair) in 1958 and the old buildings and the entire area of 173 acres (0.70 km2) was converted into a medical college campus in 1961. However, unlike the cellular jail, the entire Alipore jail with over 14 jail blocks was not considered for the status of a National Heritage Museum. The records pertaining to this historic jail in Madras Presidency were sent to the National Archives in Chennai. The jail blocks were assigned to the Government Medical College. All the blocks except one were converted into laboratories and hostels. Mahatma Gandhi spent about eight hours on 1 October 1921 at the City Railway station during his visit to Bellary. Situated in a naturally arid region with semi-desert flora, the city has slowly accumulated greenery over the past few decades due to the collective efforts of the city residents, the regional forest department and the municipal council/corporation. The following is a short list of major green spaces in the city: The Ballari and Kumbara rock hills These hills form the major natural lung spaces in the city, accommodating a host of flora including various species of ber, thorny acacias (latronum, nilotica , pennata, ferruginea, catechu, chundra, etc. locally classified as jaali in Kannada), and the interesting whirlnut (Gyrocarpus americanus jacquini – illustration), which is not found elsewhere in the city. Kuntegadda Park: Officially called the Golden Jubilee Park or the Dr. Rajkumar Park, this former slum area has been changed into a beautiful urban park due to the efforts of a succession of district commissioners starting with Ms. Gouri Trivedi and Ms. Manjula. The park features an artificial lake formed out of a disused granite quarry, a fountain with a daily musical show, a children's play area and a variety of garden flora. Bellary Zoo: Established in 1981, this zoo and children's park covers nearly 2.4 hectares and hosts a variety of fauna including blackbuck, spotted deer (chital), jackal, crocodile, Indian peafowl, cobra, python, bear, panther, boar, etc. This zoo is due to be relocated to a new facility. Kaategudda Park: This hill hosts a variety of trees and is famous for its resident flock of crows. This park is better known among the older residents of the city as 'kaage park' (kaage in kannada means crow). Bellary is well connected by road to different parts of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Goa. The city is served by the North East Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NEKRTC), offering travel services to almost all parts of Karnataka, many parts of Andhra Pradesh, Chennai, Pune and many parts of Maharashtra. Additionally, a sizeable number of private businesses offer travel services to important destinations. The main inter-city bus station is located in the now empty Lake or Tank basin. At the time of its construction, it was ranked second largest bus station in Karnataka. The old bus stand still serves the intra-city and rural buses. During British rule, Bellary was served by The Southern Mahratta Railway, connecting Bellary with Hubballi on the west and Guntakal on the east, and thus to Madras. Currently, two railway stations serve the city, both built during British rule. The city station (Bellary Junction) and the Cantonment station (Cantonment). The city is served by the Hubli–Guntakal line and the extended Bellary–Rayadurgam–Chitradurga line and falls under the jurisdiction of South Western Railway. Bellary is well connected by rail to Bangalore, Hyderabad, Raichur, Anantapur, Hindupur, Tirupati, Hubblli, Guntakal, Adoni, Guntur, Vijayawada, Howrah, Pune, Kolhapur, Visakhapatnam, Vasco, Bhuvaneshwar, Jaipur, Mysore, Shiridi, Tumakuru, Rayadurgam, Varanasi, Ajmer, solapur New Delhi, Sri Matha Vaishno Devi etc. Guntakal is an important junction near Bellary from where trains to Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai and most other places in India are available. Bellary Airport has no commercial air service. In the mid-2000s, Jindal Vijaynagar Airport in Toranagallu was instead used to serve Bellary because of its longer and wider runway. The airport once received Air Deccan flights from Bangalore and Goa, but as of March 2017 it is not served by any airline either. A new airport is being planned. The intra-city transport network is serviced by Bhuvana Vijaya Nagara Sarige a division of NEKRTC(North East Karnataka Road Transport Corporation) city buses connecting important points in the city The city is also served by private but unregulated auto rickshaw | ||
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| 25 | Gadag Betageri | Gadag-Betageri is a city municipal council in Gadag district in the state of Karnataka, India. It is the administrative headquarters of Gadag District. The original city of Gadag and its sister city Betageri (or Betgeri) have a combined city administration. Kanaginahal of Gadag is the birthplace of the first co-operative society in Asia. The twin city municipality is situated 80 km from Dharwad and 60 km from Hubli, and lies on the Gutti-Vasco National Highway. The Gadag style of Architecture marked by Ornate pillars with intricate sculpture originated during the period of the Western Chalukya (or Kalyani Chalukyas) king Someswara I, and it flourished for a period of 150 years (During 1050 CE to 1200 CE) during which about 50 temples were built. some of the examples are The Trikuteshwara temple (complex) at Gadag, Kasivisvesvara temple, Lakkundi, Doddabasappa Temple at Dambal, Amriteshwara temple at Annigeri. Gadag inscription: The 'Gadag inscription' of Vikramaditya VI, records that Taila took the head of Panchala by the terror of the pride of his arm in battle. The inscription reveals that the battle was fought on the bank of the Godavari & ocean river and a certain Kesava (son of Madhava), fought in the battle and won Taila’s admiration. At the command of Sattiga (Satyashraya) in 1006 A.D., a Lenka Keta fell fighting at the battle of Unukallu, probably against the Cholas. An inscription',[3] dated in Saka 930 (1008 A.D.) of the reign of Satyashraya refers to the siege of the agrahara Kaldugu in the Belvola 300 by Desinga and the destruction of the forces because of the treachery of king Perggade. The inscription of Ballala recounts his victory as And by force, he, the strong one, defeated with cavalry only, and deprived of his sovereignty, the general Brahmana whose army was strengthened by an array of elephants and who acquired 60 tusked elephants with a single tuskless elephant, when, on account of an insult, he was tearing the royal fortune from the family of the Kalachuris of Kalyani. Tourism: Saraswati temple at Trikuteshwara temple complex Gadag, Karnataka Trikuteshwara temple complex has triple shrines, once housing Shiva, Brahma and Surya. The Saraswathi temple has the finest shining decorative pillars, and the Saraswathi image, and is one of the largest examples of Chalukya art. Someshwara and Rameshwara temples, built in the Chalukya style, are also present. Veeranarayana temple dates from the Chalukya era. The great Kannada poet Kumara Vyasa composed his famous Mahabharatha (known as Kumaravyasa Bharata or Gadugina Bharata) in this temple. A 111-foot statue of Basaveshwara at the Bhishma Lake is not the tallest statue in the world. Here is the List of statues by height in the World.[4] Gadag also has a mosque dating from the Adilshahi era and a church. Betageri has many artistic hero stones dating from the ninth and tenth centuries. Durga devi tree, divotional tree worshipped by people near to ksrtc depot betageri. The tree called " Dandin durga devi". The story told about the tree from british rule. Visit nearest famous tourist places like Lakkundi, Mahadeva Temple (Itagi), Lakshmeshwar and Dambal. Magadi Bird Sanctuary - It is one of the Biodiversity hotspots of Karnataka. Binkadakatti Zoo - A Biggest Zoo set up in North Karnataka. | ||
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| 26 | Srirangapatna | Srirangapatna is a town in Mandya district of the Indian state of Karnataka. Located near the city of Mysore, it is of religious, cultural and historic importance. The town takes its name from the celebrated Ranganathaswamy temple which dominates the town, making Srirangapatna one of the most important Vaishnavite centers of pilgrimage in south India. The temple was built by the Ganga dynasty rulers of the area in the 9th century; the structure was strengthened and improved upon architecturally some three centuries later. Thus, the temple is a medley of the Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles of temple architecture. Tradition holds that all the islands formed in the Kaveri River are consecrated to Sri Ranganathaswamy, and large temples have been built in very ancient times dedicated to that deity on the three largest islands. These three towns, which constitute the main pilgrimage centers dedicated to Ranganathaswamy, are: Adi Ranga - at Srirangapatna, Madhya Ranga - at Shivanasamudra, Antya Ranga - at Srirangam. The presence of the Kaveri River is in itself considered auspicious and sanctifying. The Paschima Vaahini section of the Kaveri at Srirangapatna is considered especially sacred; the pious come from far and wide to immerse the ashes of the departed and perform obsequies to their ancestors in these waters. The town is famous for a very ancient temple dedicated to Sri Ranganathaswamy, a form of Lord Vishnu. There is also Kalyani Siddhi vinayaka temple in front of the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Other temples in Srirangapatna include the Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple,Jyothi Mahaswara Temple, Bidhcotta Ganesha Temple, Panduranga Swamy Temple, the Sathyanarayana Swamy Temple, the Anjunaya Swamy Temple, the Ayyapa Temple, the Gangadhareswara Swamy Temple, and RaganathaNagara Ganesha Temple,Lakshmi Temple, Sri raghavendra swamy mutt on old post office road, surrounding Srirangapatna in fort 8 Ganesh & Anjunaya temples. The Karighatta (Black Hill) and its temple of Lord Srinivasa is situated a few kilometres from the town. The deity is that of Kari-giri-vasa (one who resides on the black hill). The renowned Nimishambha Temple is located about 2 km from the town. Srirangapatna also hosts the summer palace of Tipu Sultan and his mausoleum. The Ranganthaswamy Temple – usually referred to as "Sri Ranganathaswamy" – is dedicated to Ranganatha, a manifestation of Vishnu. It is one of the five important pilgrimage sites along the river Kaveri for devotees of Ranganatha. These five sacred sites are together known as Pancharanga Kshetrams in Southern India. Since Srirangapatna is the first temple starting from upstream, the deity is known as Adi Ranga (lit; "first Ranga"), and the town of Srirangapatna, which derives its name from the temple, is located on an island in the river Kaveri. | ||
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| 27 | Bhadravati | Bhadravati is an industrial city and taluk in the Shimoga District of Karnataka state, India It is situated at a distance of about 255 kilometres (158 mi) from the state capital Bengaluru and at about 20 kilometres (12 mi) from the district headquarters, Shimoga. Bhadravati derives its name from the Bhadra River which flows through the city. It was earlier known as Benkipura (or Venkipura), and earlier Benki Pattana which in English means city of fire. Iron ore from the hill station of Kemmannugundi and water from the Bhadra River helped the establishment of an iron mill in 1918 and a paper mill in 1936. Hoysalas ruled the city. The Goddess "Halldhammadevi & Antargattamadevi" guard the city from past time. The sacred temples are still present in the city. Bhadravati lies in the central part of the Karnataka State, in the south-east corner of the Shimoga district. Bhadravati is at an altitude of 597 metres (1,959 ft) above sea level. The Bhadra River flows through the city, then flows into the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary south of the city. The Bhadravati Taluk has a total area of 675.08 square kilometres (260.65 sq mi), a population of 338,611, and a population density of 501.56 inhabitants per square kilometre (1,299.0/sq mi). The taluk borders five other taluks, the Shimoga Taluk to the west, the Honnali Taluk to the north, the Channagiri Taluk to the east, the Tarikere Taluk to the south-east, and the Narasimharajapura Taluk to the south-west. Two national highways pass through the city: NH-206 and NH-13; the two highways converge for a short length starting in Bhadravati and ending in Shimoga. Two state highways pass through the city as well. Buses that go from Bangalore to Shimoga stop at Bhadravati and take around six hours to complete the journey. The Shimoga–Bangalore train, the Birur–Shimoga train, and the Mysore–Shimoga train all go through Bhadravati.It is well connected by rail to the bengaluru city. The airport is under construction. The nearest airport is in Hubli, around 170 kilometres (110 mi) from Bhadravati. Another airport is under construction in Shimoga near Sogane. Lakshmi Narasimha temple, 13th century Hoysala architecture The Lakshmi Narasimha temple: This temple was built by the Veera Narasimha, The Grand Son of Vishnuvardhana belonging to Hoysala Dynasty in the 13th Century A.D. The temple has idols of Lord Srikrishna, Lord Purushottama, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Sharadamba along with lord Narasimha. Temple is built on a star shaped platform. Halladammadevi Temple is situated in heart of the city. This is the largest and modern temple in Malnad region. Jain Temple is also popular present near NST road. Largest Shiva Idol is Established near Lower Huttha recently. Sri Ranagatha Temple called Gudhe Ranganatha Honneguda near Bharadravati towards BR project Shree Chandika Durga Temple, Lower Huttha, is a popular temple located on the banks of river Bhadra. [Gondhi, Sunnadahalli, Kudli Mutt near Bhadravati A sharada peetha by Shankara Charya & Shankar-Sharada math are other sacred place built along the banks of River Bhadra.] Shree Rameshwara and subrmaneswara temple, Old town, is located on the banks of river bhadra,which was temple was built in the year 1910. A Shiva Temple which has been there for more than 80 years opp. Reliance Bunk is noted to have been there installed which is famous for the Shivratri that is performed here. Sri Sathya Sai Baba Mandir, & Sri Shiva Sai Krupa Dhama at Newtown are the popular places to visit and take part in the Pooja's and Bhajans that take place on every Thursdays & Fridays.... Wildlife sanctuaries[edit] Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was started in 1951 as the Jagara Valley Wildlife Sanctuary covering an area of 77.45 square miles (200.6 km2). In 1972, adjacent land was added to the sanctuary, bringing the total area to 492.46 square kilometres (190.14 sq mi). The reserve was renamed in 1974 to its current name. | ||
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| 28 | Gangavati | Gangavati is a town, municipality and taluk in the Koppal district of the Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the commercial hubs in the entire Hyderabad Karnataka region, it is also known as a largest city in terms of area and population when compared to any towns within Koppal district. It is often known as Rice Bowl city of Karnataka. Gangavati is a commercial centre and a major focal point for the rice milling industry, with its rural areas being important for Paddy cultivation – it is considered the "Rice Bowl" of Karnataka. Sugar production is prominent, with Gangavati Sugar Limited(now its Shut Down ), 10 kilometres (6 mi) from Gangavati, once the second biggest sugar plant in Asia. Notable places of historic importance near Gangavati are Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) south-west of the town, which includes the Virupaksha Temple, the villages of Kanakagiri and Anegundi, and gurus' tombs at Nava Brindavana. The village of Hemagudda is 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) away – it is the site of the 14th-century safe-haven Hemagudda Fort, and Dasara celebrations within a restored temple. Hampi presents the famous Ugra Narasimha statue. The spectacular stone chariot is yet another must visit site. Tungabhadra dam is located close to the city and channels her water to many of the villages that come under Gangavati. Within the town are the Kannika Parameshwari, Pampapathi, Muddaneshware and Neelakanteshwara temples. Gangavati is connected by road to Hampi, Hospet, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mantralayam, Hubli and Bellary. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs buses to chief towns and cities in Karanataka. The nearest major railway stations are at Hospet and Koppal. Gangavati town-wide transport includes auto rickshaws for hire. Gangavathi is also preparing to get connected through Railway Line connected from Gingera to Raichur. | ||
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| 29 | Ranebennuru | Ranebennuru is the City Municipal Council in Haveri district in Karnataka, India. It is situated 300 kilometres (190 mi) northwest of Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. Other nearby cities include Hubli (105 km), Shimoga (88 km), and Davangere (37 km). Ranibennuru is at geographical center of karnataka. One of Karnataka's most important rivers – the Tungabhadra – flows along the southern border of Ranebennur taluk. Another river, the Kumadvathi, which originates from Madagh Masur Lake flows from Hirekerur taluk, enters Ranebennur taluk, and joins the Tungabhadra river. The nearest airport is at Hubli, 108 km from Ranebennur. From there one can take flights to Bengaluru and Mumbai. The nearest international airport is 300 km away, in Bengaluru. Ranebennur is connected with most of the metros like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai through regular trains. Being on National Highway NH4, the city enjoys good bus services. It is a 1.5 hour drive from Hubli (105 km) and 5 hr drive from Bengaluru (300 km). Most buses travelling between North Karnataka and South Karnataka go via Ranebennur. The bulk of the population is engaged in agriculture and related activities. Cotton and jowar (sorghum) are very well suited to the semi-arid climate. Coconut, brinjal, maize, betel leaves, and tomatoes are the other crops grown here. Much of the agricultural output is dependent on the southwest monsoon and hence gets challenging at times. the Upper Tunga project, if completed, will be a boon for the farmers in this region. Sericulture (rearing of silkworms) is growing in popularity among the farmers. Mulberry plants are grown and silkworm larvae are fed cut-up mulberry leaves. This is a labour-intensive activity and hence well suited to this region. Ranebennur is home to a rich commodity market. Commodities like cotton yarn, cotton seed, oil seeds, red chilli, betel nut, and betel leaf are traded. Ranebennur has a seed multiplication industry. Several seed companies are located and operating in the city. Ranebennur is also known for its wholesale cloth market and all type of wholesale business. Sarees is also a very vast market at Ranebennur. Sha Sukhraj Mithalal Sarees and M/S Manohar Textiles on MG road is one of the biggest and oldest merchant of sarees and has a vast collection. Just when the village started expanding this store was established around the late twentieth century. | ||
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| 30 | Bhatkal | Bhatkal also known as 'Batecala' in some Portuguese historical texts, is a port town in Uttara Kannada District of South Indian state of Karnataka. The town of Bhatkal lies on National Highway 66 (India) running between Mumbai and Kochi and is one of the major railway stations along the Konkan Railway line running between Mumbai and Mangaluru. The closest airport is Mangaluru International Airport. In the early ages Bhatkal belonged to followers of Jain and Hindu religion and later acquired more religions and cultures. Bhatkal gets its name after the Jain Grammarian Bhattakalanka based out of Haduvalli Village. It is a town located on the shores of Arabian sea, with Sharavathi river few miles to its north. Bhatkal's location, although very strategic, was the main factor behind the country side's erratic history. Bhatkal witnessed the rise and fall of several dynasties and rulers. Bhatkal was a part of the Hoysala empire from 1291 to 1343 before falling into the hands of the Vijayanagara empire. After the disintegration of the latter, the much coveted town of Bhatkal was brought under the control of the Saluva (Jain) rulers of Hadwalli (a town on the State Highway towards Jog Falls). Numerous temples and basadis were constructed during the Saliva's reign. Vestiges of this period can be found in Mudbhatkal, where a few temples still stand as an old witness of that era. Chola emperors under Aditya I, his son Parantaka I and successor Sundara Chola also known as Parantaka Chola II initially invaded and conquered territories in the Kannada country between Gangavadi on the Mysore plateau and Bhatkal on the Sahyadri coast during 880-975 AD. As a sign of their victory in Kannada country, they built the Solesvara Temple in commemoration of their conquest. Inscriptions from successive kings from Parantaka Chola I to Kulothunga Chola III mention their generals as 'Lords of the Konkana' which included Bhatkal and of paying obeisance to Lord Solesvarar of Konkana. The Portuguese also made their presence felt here in the beginning of the 16th century. Krishnadevaraya allowed them to build a fort in 1510.[1] From the Keladi rulers, Bhatkal was passed on to Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan and later to the British Empire in 1799 after the death of Tipu Sultan. Bhatkal is connected by road and rail. The National Highway 66 (India) passes through this town and has a major impact on the development. It is well connected by rail as well, the Konkan Railway runs many trains running day and night. The railway station has two platforms paving way for smooth running of trains. The local economy depends mostly on tourism and fishing. Bhatkal also has imported goods markets, including the Dubai Market and the Mirchi Gully. | ||
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| 31 | Gokarna | Gokarna is a small temple town on the western coast of India in the Kumta taluk of Uttara Kannada district of the state of Karnataka. The main temple and deity is Lord Shiva, who is also known as Mahabaleshwara. This temple houses what is believed to be original image of Lord Shiva's linga (Atmalinga). There are many other temples all over this small town. Ankola and Kumta on National Highway 17 are the main towns near Gokarna and Bhatkal and Karwar are the main cities near Gokarna where almost all trains stops. Gokarna is known as one of the seven important Hindu pilgrimage centers. It is on what was once an unspoiled beach near the estuary of the river Aghanashini. Recently, due to the influx of tourists, the character of the town has changed; it is no longer just a centre of pilgrimage, though large numbers of devotees visit to offer prayers and worship to Lord Shiva. Due to its laid-back, unspoiled and rustic nature many younger western tourists started visiting Gokarna about a decade ago. The beaches around Gokarna were hardly used by the locals until these mainly western tourists started coming. Enterprising locals started stores, restaurants, and now the resorts also caters to wealthier tourists. Gokarna means Cow's Ear. It is believed that Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow (Prithvi, the Mother Earth) here. It is at the ear-shaped confluence of two rivers Gangavali and Aghanashini. View for Kudle beach seen from north: Gokarna is mentioned in the Shrimad Bhagavata Purana as being the home of the brothers Gokarna and Dhundhakari. In order that Brahma who out of arrogance arising out of his power to create the universe, sat penancing to redeem himself from curse of Shiva, Lord Shiva appeared in front of him from the ears of a cow. So the place came to be known as gokarna or ear of the cow. Hindu mythology says that when Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu created Kerala, it was from Gokarna to Kanyakumari. As per legend, Ravana was given Atmalinga by Lord Shiva and instructed that it would stay permanently where it is first placed on the land. But Lord Ganesha came in the form of a boy and planted it in Gokarna while Ravana was performing rituals. Once placed Ravana could not remove it from ground, but he removed some pieces of the Linga and threw them in different directions. The earliest history of the city is in Tretayuga, Ravana (Demon/Asura King of Lanka) reaches Kailasa and performed rigorous penance to get the "Atma Linga" from Lord Shiva, as Ravana's mother expressed a keen desire to worship the atmalinga of Lord Shiva. After a long penance, Shiva gave the Atma linga to Ravana as a boon and instructs Ravana to carry it home by walk, that he should never place it on the earth even for a short while failing which the linga would get eternally embedded at the place were he broke his commands. Lord Maha Vishnu learned that Ravana will become all powerful by worshipping the 'Atma Linga' and menace to the world and Ravana's conviction that nobody could defeat him, once he acquired the very power of Shiva. Maha vishnu devised a plan to install the linga somewhere and as he thought that Lord Ganapati was alone capable of doing it, he along with all the gods pleased Ganapati to execute the plan. Lord Ganapati accepts and reaches Gokarna as a Brahmin boy. As Ravana was nearing Gokarna, Maha Vishnu who had known well that Ravana was punctual in performing his periodical rites (Sandyavandhana), hides sun with his Sudarshana Chakra (Wheel). Thinking that it was time to perform the evening rites, Ravana finds a Brahmin boy and asked him to hold the Atmalinga in his hand till he came back after finishing the rites. Ganapati agreed to hold the linga on one condition that he would do so till he would be able to bear the weight of linga and that thereafter he would call Ravana three times and if failed to come to him by then he would place the linga on the earth. Ganapati calls Ravana three times when he was performing his rites and places the linga on the earth and he vanished. The Atmalinga at once got firmly entrenched in the earth. Ravana learned that he had been tricked by the Gods. The depressed demon king Ravana was deeply agitated and tried to pull up the linga, but the linga did not budge a little. It resulted in his throwing the coverings of the Linga to Dhareshwara, Gunavanteshwara, Murudeshwara and Shejjeshwar temples. Ravana was unable to lift the linga from the ground again and called the shiva linga as Mahabala, one with great strength, and ever since, the linga illustrious as Mahabaleshwara. Shiva learnt all these from Vayu Deva, the god of wind, and came on to Earth with Goddess Parvathi devi and his train of Gods, he visited these five places and worshipped the linga which had now taken five forms. He acknowledged that these five places would be his "Pancha Kshetras" (Five Holy Places) A sect of Brahmins fled from the Gomantak to escape forcible conversions by the Portuguese and British and settled in and around Gokarna in the 15th century. It was part of the Sodhe and Vijayanagar kingdoms. When the Konkan region — including Goa — was occupied by the Portuguese, it became part of their rule. A few temples were destroyed by the Portuguese in 1714, rebuilt in the 18th century, and under the supervision of Guru H. H. Shrimad Anandashram Swamiji in 1928. Gokarna is a temple town and a holiday destination. Gokarna is full of coconut, banana and other trees, blue seas and relatively clean sands. It is a laid-back town with two main streets lined with shops and traditional tile-roofed brick houses. The beaches near Gokarna have shacks (huts) for rent. Kannada is the main language spoken here; Konkani and English are spoken, too. Mahabaleshwara Temple, the main temple of the town, Gokarna town beach seen from south, Temple Chariot. Religious attractions: Gokarna is an important centre of Sanskrit learning and houses Bhandikeri Math and Toggu Math. It is a place where Sanskrit knowledge is passed down from generations in Brahmin families. Many Hindus perform the last rites here. Mahabaleshwara Temple (Maha: great, bal: strength) is a famous Shiva Temple and it houses the 'Atmalinga'. It was named after Ravana referred to the linga's great strength. It is at the western end of the main street. The 'Atmalinga' is between the Saligrama Peethaa. The idol of Lord Mahabaleshwara is called Nagabharana. It is so named because of the Lord rests under the head of Naga (serpent). The floor of the hall in front has an intricate engraving of a giant tortoise. Maha Ganapathi Temple built in honour of the boy Ganapathi, who deceived the demon Ravana by keeping Atmalinga on ground before Ravana returns from sandhyavandana. The deity here is two-armed, standing and at least 1500 years old. Kotitheertha is a man-made tank that is used for immersion of idols and ritual bathing. It is surrounded by temples. Shivaratri festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The temple has two chariots — named locally as 'Dodda Ratha' (Dodda for big in Kannada) and 'Sanna Ratha' (Sanna for small in Kannada). While Sanna Ratha is out in the open during winter and summer, the Dodda Ratha is brought out and made ready only during Maha Shivaratri. On the last day of the Shivaratri festival the Lord Mahabaleshwara idol is carried in Dodda Ratha in a procession through the town's big Car Street, while priests and pilgrims chant hymns in praise of Shiva. More than 100 people are needed to pull the chariots with thick ropes while priests conduct religious ceremonies inside. During the nine-day festival, the small town of Gokarna is visited by up to 20,000 pilgrims. Community festivals: Mahashivaratri, Kartika Mahotsava, Suggi Habba is the main cultural festival of halakki vakkaligas. The drive up the winding path that leads to Gokarna is scenic, with the rocky mountains and Western Ghats on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other. Gokarna is known for the beaches. The Gokarna main beach in town and Kudle beach are west facing. Om beach, Half moon Beach, Paradise Beach (also known as Full moon) and Belekan beach are south facing. The Gokarna beach forms the coast of the town and is followed by Main beach in northern direction while the other four beaches lie to the south. Gokarna Main Beach is mainly used by Indian pilgrims. Main Beach is a long open beach, known for surfing. Kudle and Om are around 6 km from Gokarna town along a muddy hill; they are accessible by rickshaw or foot. Half moon and Paradise are beyond Om beach and are accessible only by trekking or boat. Om beach is named so because it is shaped like the auspicious ? Om symbol. Om beach is a naturally Om-shaped beach,[9] it attracts local tourists on weekends. It has a few shacks and eateries, and also boat service to other beaches. Boating services seen in Om beach, 5km from Gokarna A tourist sun bathing in Om beach: Gokarna is about 238 km north of Mangalore, 483 km from Bengaluru and about 59 km from Karwar. It is between the Gangavali and Agnashini rivers along the Karwar coast by the Arabian Sea. It is 200 km north from the college towns of Suratkal and Manipal. Gokarna can be reached by buses and maxicabs from Kumta (30 km), Ankola (26 km), Karwar (59 km) and Bhatkal(88 km) on National Highway 17 (NH-17). Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs long-journey buses from cities like Panaji, Bengaluru and Mangalore. Private buses (Vijayanand Roadlines - VRL, Sugama, Sea Bird, etc.) operate night journeys from the capital city of Bengaluru to Gokarna daily. It can be reached by Konkan Railway on the Mumbai to Mangalore route or Goa to Mangalore route. The railway station (called Gokarna Road) is 6 km from the town. The station has a retiring room at a nominal price. Many important trains like Matsyagandha Express, KSR Bengaluru Karwar Express, Poorna Express, Marusagar Express and Mangalore Local and DEMU local are the Daily Local Trains halt here. The nearest airports are Goa International Airport at Goa and Mangalore International Airport at Bajpe, Karnataka are the nearest Airport's to reach at Gokarna. Neighbouring villages are Bankikodla-Hanehalli, Sanikatta, Tadadi, Torke, Madangere, Maskeri, Adigone, Nelaguni and Bijjur. | ||
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| 32 | Robertsonpet | Robertsonpet is a township in the city of Kolar Gold Fields in India. It is one of the first planned residential areas in modern-day India. The township was planned and built to accommodate the increasing population of the city of Kolar Gold Fields. The town hall popularly known as King George Hall is lavishly built in Victorian style with an impressive lawn and garden in front of it. Robertsonpet is a township located at the Kolar Gold Fields, India, established in 1902 and named after Sir Donald Robertson the British Resident of the Princely state of Mysore. It is considered to be one of the premier well planned townships in Modern India. History: In the late 19th and early 20th century, the mining industry expanded under the John Taylor and Sons Company. In its peak period, it employed 4500 employees, and the waste rocky terrain was developed into a township. The township was first established in 1901 as New Town, to house the population working in the KGF Mines. On 15 August 1903, the township was renamed as Robertsonpet. The Town got its name at the insistence of the Maharaja of Mysore, who named after Sir Donald Robertson the British Resident of Mysore. As the township grew, several tradesmen such as bakers, confectioners, jewellers, pawn brokers, barbers, timber merchants, tailors, etc. migrated and set up shop in Roberstsonpet. A town hall (similar to the town halls in country Australia) was built in the Victorian architecture with arches, canopies and large garderns, and was named as the King George Hall. The KGF Club in Oorgaum and the The King George Hall Cosmopolitan Club were established providing faculties for badminton, tennis, cards, carom, snooker, etc. Sir Donald Robertson: Sir Donald Robertson is credited with started the hydro-electric plant at Shivanasamudram, which supplied electricity to the KGF Mines. Sir. Robertson served as the British Resident of the Mysore Darbar in the 1900s, and during his tenure drafted the Constitution of the princely state of Mysore. He worked towards providing amenities to the population of KGF, even to those who were not employed by the mines, and is largely credited for establishing the KGF mining towns. In recognition of his services, His Highness, the Maharaja of Mysore Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV renamed New Town as Robertsonpet. After retirement from government services, Sir. Robertson joined the mining M/s John Taylor and Sons Company. He died on 13 October 1930. Tamil people form a majority at KGF, even though the Kolar district itself has a majority Telugu population. In the census of 1901, Tamil people constituted 61% of the population of KGF, and 58% in 1921, rising to 67.51% in 1971. In the mining towns of KGF, the Tamil population according to the 1971 census was at 81%. Most of the Tamil population trace their ancestry to the labourers brought in by the British from the North Arcot, Chittoor, Salem and Dharmapuri districts of the Madras Presidency, during the late 19th century. The migration was necessary, as the local villagers refused to work for the British. There is also a substantial Anglo-Indian population at KGF, descendants of the English mine supervisors. Roberstonpet is a melting pot of cultures with people of different communities -Anglo Indian, Tamil, Telugu, Marwari, Kannada Muslims, etc. living in the township. | ||
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| 33 | Channapatna | Channapatna is a city town and taluka headquarter in Ramanagara district Karnataka, India. The city is famous for its wooden toys and lacquerware. Channapatna is also called with name Town of toys "goMbegaLa nagara". These toys are manufactured in traditional and advanced small scale industries. Manufacturing and twisting of raw silk, rice, ragi and coconut is a major product of Channapatna taluk. | ||
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| 34 | Hospet | Hospet or Hosapete is a city in the Bellary District in central Karnataka, India. It is located on the Tungabhadra River, 12 km from Hampi. Hampi is a World Heritage site containing the ruins of the medieval city Vijayanagara, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Hospet was built in 1520 AD by Krishna Deva Raya, one of the rulers of Vijayanagara. He built the city to honour the memory of his mother Nagalambika. The city was originally named Nagalapura; however, people referred to the city as Hosa Pete, which meant "New City". The area between Hampi and Hospet is still called Nagalapura. This was the main entrance to the city of Vijayanagara for travellers coming from Goa and the west coast. The current MLA for this area is Anand Singh. The government approved a request to rename the city in October 2014, and Hospet was renamed "Hosapete" on 1 November 2014. Hospet is well connected to several important cities in India. Bellary, the regional capital, is located approximately 60 km away from Hospet. Hosapete Junction railway station lies on Hubbali-Guntakal railway line. Bengaluru is 330 km away. In addition, the city has a well-developed market area. Hospet is a well-known tourist destination, mainly due to the proximity of Hampi. Tungabhadra Dam is another asset that makes Hospet a popular destination for tourists. Hospet is also notable for its iron ore mining and steel plants. | ||
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| 35 | Sakleshpur | Sakleshpur or Sakleshapura is a hill station town and headquarters of Sakleshapura Taluk in Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. The town lies in the Malnad region on the magnificent hills of the biodiversity hotspot, the Western Ghats. It has a temperate climate surrounded with lofty green hills full of coffee, cardamom, pepper and areca plantations. These crops which contribute mainly to the economy of the taluk are grown in the surrounding villages and the entire taluk are brought to Sakleshapura city for sale. The town lies on the National Highway 48 (NH-48) which connects the port city of Mangalore, with the capital city Bangalore of Karnataka state. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport. Geography: It has an average elevation of 949 metres (3113 feet). Sakaleshapura taluk is bounded by Belur taluk to the northeast, Alur taluk to the east, Kodagu district to the southeast and south, Dakshina Kannada district to the west, Chikkamagaluru district to the northwest. The Western Ghats mountains extend along the western edge of the taluk, separating Sakaleshapura from Dakshina Kannada district. The rest of the district lies on the Deccan Plateau. The Hemavathi River, a tributary of the Kaveri, drains the eastern portion of the district, originating in Chikkamagalur district and flowing through Sakaleshapura town. Two rivers originate in Sakaleshapura taluk and drain westward through the Ghats. The Kempuhole River originates near Manjarabad Fort and flows westward to join the Netravati River, which empties into the Arabian Sea at Mangalore. The Kumaradhara River, another tributary of the Netravati, drains the southwestern portion of the taluk. These rivers form passes through the Ghats. The Bangalore-Mangalore Highway follows the Kempuhole River, as does the rail line linking Sakaleshapura to Dakshina Kannada. Bisile Ghat Road follows the Kumaradhara, linking the southwestern portion of the taluk to Kulkunda and Subrahmanya in Dakshina Kannada. Climate: Sakaleshapura receives very heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon. It is one of the places receiving the most rainfall in Karnataka. The places are like Agani (near Hanbal-here the average rainfall is believed to be more than that of Agumbe, which receives the highest rainfall in South India. History: The name Shakala is a Sanskrit word which means "Bhinnavada" or "Birukada". In the past a Shivalinga found in this town which was broken. The linga was called as Shakaleshwara which since then became Sakaleshwara in the tongue of the local people. A temple was also built at the entrance of the town. Later, the town was also called as Sakaleshapura. Sakaleshwara swami's ratha yatra is held on Purnima in February of every year. In front of the Shakaleshwara temple, a newly constructed Shiva temple called as "Holemalleshvara" is situated right next to river Hemavathi. During the rainy season, the temple is filled up with water and is as famous as the Shakaleshwara temple. Another theory is that the name Sakaleshapura evolved from sakala-aishwarya-pura, which in turn got condensed from sakala aishwaryagalinda kudida pura – literally meaning that the place is blessed with all kinds of wealth: Water (River Hemavati); Coffee; Spices – including Cardamom & Pepper; excellent Climate too – being a Hill Station that earned the sobriquet “poor man’s Ooty” during the British Raj; Education; Road links, and lately also a Rail head, etc. This, quoting local coffee planter of repute – the erudite erstwhile educationist & historian, head of department of Oriental Languages and Professor of Kannada at Mangalore’s St Aloysius College: Ligoury Bernard Pereira – who eloquently described the place with all its attributes of wealth – at the State Scouts & Guides Jamboree held in Sakaleshapur in 1978. The primary mode of employment in the Sakaleshapura region is agriculture. Crops grown include coffee, rice, pepper, cardamom, ginger and tea with coffee being dominant. Sakaleshapura coffee is shade grown on the slopes of the Western Ghats as the elevation is not high enough to enable the intensive cultivation practices followed in the Brazilian and Colombian highlands. But shade cultivation is acclaimed by environmentalists rather than sunlight cultivation followed in Ethiopia and other African Coffee growing nations, as western ghats runs through Sakaleshapura. Large timber yielding trees such as Rose wood and Jack trees provide shade for these coffee bushes. Coffee growers are typically small farm owners with plantation sizes ranging from 10 acres (40,000 m2) to 10,000 acres (40 km2) as in Kaadumane Estate. Of late, several corporations such as Tata, IBC Group and the TI group have adopted large scale cultivation. The larger plantations process and market the coffee themselves in the domestic and international markets. Sakaleshapura Taluk accounts for around a third of Indian cardamom production. Sakaleshapura is located in the Western Ghats, a mountain range that stretches from Kerala to Gujarat. The southern range, which includes Bisle Reserve Forest and the region around Sakaleshpura is listed as one of the 18 most diverse spots in the world in terms of flora and fauna. The sub-tropical climate and heavy rains during the wet season create an environment where several unique plant and animal species flourish. With people of Sakaleshapura being very hospitable, the tourism industry is increasingly embracing the Bed & Breakfast model and now offers several choices for a weekend getaway. Local flora of Sakleshapur include the reddish-orange pagoda flower (Clerodendrum paniculatum), locally known as ratha pushpa (blood flower). The Manjarabad fort is located just outside Sakaleshapura on National Highway 48. The fort is reputed to have been constructed by Tippu Sultan, the erstwhile ruler of Mysuru as a strategic defensive location as it commands the approach to the plateau beyond Sakaleshapura from the coast. It is also believed that he had constructed a tunnel from this fort to another fort in Srirangapattana near Mysuru. Jenukal gudda is the third highest peak in Karnataka, located at Maragunda 24 km outside Sakaleshapura. Raxidi Estate is around 1000 acre land of coffee estate in the city of Sakaleshapura. It has a temperate climate surrounded with lofty green hills full of coffee, cardamom & pepper. Large timber yielding trees such as Rose wood and Jack trees provide shade for these coffee bushes. The sub-tropical climate and heavy rains during the wet season create an environment where several unique plant and animal species flourish. Raxidi Estate is often swathed in mist as the cool temperate surroundings are met with warm air. Raxidi Estate is so beautiful spot, it is a place of mind relief, it is beauty of nature. 'Mookana mane abhi falls' is located in Athihalli village, which is 50 km from Sakaleshapura town, which seems to be most beautiful waterfall in Sakaleshapura taluku. Trekking: Trekking along this route no longer possible, as train services have resumed since 2007 The Green Route "Trek on the Railway Track", is a stretch of track from Sakleshapur to the Subrahmanya railroad station, which was suspended in 1996 to convert the gauge from meter to broad gauge. In the 2007 the train service was commissioned and nowadays many people use the train to reach Donigal. This track, that traverses some distance of the Western Ghats, had been abandoned, but now the track has been converted to broad-gauge. It forms a part of 56.80 km stretch from Sakaleshapura to Kukke Subrahmanya, dotted by 58 tunnels, 109 bridges and about 25 waterfalls. Since 2005 goods trains are carrying freight to/from the Mangaluru Port. It is recommended to trek after monsoon season i.e. during October. The passenger trains have started plying on the route since 2008. Currently, there are two passenger trains running on this route, one from Mysore via Hassan(daily), and another from Bengaluru, via Tumkur and Arasikere(alternate days). Another place to trek in Sakaleshapura taluk is Bisile ghat or Bisile reserve forest. The town itself makes for a pleasant halfway stop for travelers along National Highway 48—being the apex town in a long trail of road beginning in Bantwal near Mangalore, winding its way up the Western Ghats. As such, the town is often swathed in mist as the cool temperate surroundings are met with warm air from the coastal lowlands. The exit highway is equally picturesque with tall hedges lining both sides of the road, enclosing coffee groves within. Kumar Parvat, also called KP by trekkers is a challenging hike. Jenukal Gudda is less famous than other trekking spots. Trek on the Railway Track (2003). Trekking along this route no longer possible, as train services have resumed since 2007 Manjarabad Fort: The Manjarabad Fort was constructed by Pallada dore its a jail after Tippu Sultan accrued and invigorated this. It is located on the outskirts of Saklaeshapura on NH48. It has a star-shaped fort, with a hillock in the centre and eight corners. The climb to the hillock in the centre is difficult, but offers superb views. There is a hollow entrance in the centre, which is said to the entrance of a tunnel leading to Srirangapattana. There is a mural with the fort's map at the entrance which is in excellent condition. The fort is maintained by the Department of Archeology. | ||
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| 36 | Chitradurga | Chitradurga is a city and the headquarters of Chitradurga district which is located on the valley of the Vedavati river in the southern part of the Indian state of Karnataka. Chitradurga gets its name from Chitrakaldurga, an umbrella-shaped lofty hill found here. Chitradurga features bold rock hills and picturesque valleys, huge towering boulders in numerous shapes. It is known as the "stone fortress" (Kallina Kote). According to the epic Mahabharatha, a man-eating Rakshasa named Hidimba and his sister Hidimbi lived on the hill. Hidimba was a source of terror to everyone around while Hidimbi was a peace-loving rakshasa. When the Pandavas came with their mother Kunti in the course of their exile, Bhima had a duel with Hidimba in which Hidimba was killed. Thereafter Bhima married Hidimbi and they had a son named Ghatotkacha who had magical powers. Legend has it the boulders were part of the arsenal used during that duel. In fact, the boulders on which major part of the city rests belong to the oldest rock formation in the country. Timmana Nayaka, a chieftain under the Vijayanagar Empire, rose to the rank of governor of Chitradurga as a reward from the Vijayanagara ruler, for his excellence in military services,. This was the beginning of the rule of the Nayakas of Chitradurga. His son Obana Nayaka is known by the name Madakari Nayaka (1588 CE). Madakari Nayaka's son Kasturi Rangappa (1602) succeeded him and consolidated the kingdom to rule peacefully. As he had no heirs to succeed him, his adopted son, the apparent heir was enthroned but was killed in few months by the Dalavayis. Chikkanna Nayaka (1676), the brother of Madakari Nayaka II sat on the throne, and his brother succeeded him with the title Madakari Nayaka III in 1686. The unwillingness of Dalawayis to accept Madakari Nayaka III's rule gave an opportunity to one of their distant relatives, Bharamappa Nayaka to ascend the throne in 1689. He is known as the greatest of the Nayaka rulers. The subjects of Chitradurga did not experience a good reign of the successive rulers as they ruled on the throne for very brief periods. The Hiri Madakari Nayaka IV (1721), Kasturi Rangappa Nayaka II (1748), Madakari Nayaka V (1758) ruled this area but there is not much to mention of their rule. An opening in the rocks of Chitradurga fort that was used by Hyder Ali to send his soldiers. This attempt was defeated by Obavva. During the reign of Madakari Nayaka, the town of Chitradurga was besieged by the troops of Hyder Ali. A chance sighting of a woman entering the Chitradurga fort through an opening in the rocks led to a clever plan by Hyder Ali to send his soldiers through the hole. The guard on duty near that hole had gone home for lunch. The wife of that guard, Obavva was passing by the hole to collect water, when she noticed soldiers emerging out of this opening. Obavva was not perturbed. She was carrying with her an Onake (a long wooden club meant for pounding paddy grains). She killed Hyder Ali's soldiers one by one as they attempted to enter the fort through the opening and quietly moved the dead. Over a short period of time hundreds of soldiers entered and fell, without raising any suspicion. Obavva's husband, upon his return from his lunch was shocked to see Obavva standing with a blood stained Onake and hundreds of dead bodies of the enemy around her. Together both wife and husband beat up most of the soldiers. But as both of them were about to finish off all the soldiers of Hyder Ali, Obavva dies. The opening in the rocks still remains as a historical witness for the story, beside The Tanniru doni the well which Obavva was making her way to, when she found the soldieres of Hyder Ali. Though her brave attempt saved the fort on that occasion, Madakari Nayaka could not repel Hyder Ali's attack in 1779. In the ensuing battle, the fort of Chitradurga was lost to Hyder Ali. Obavva, like Kittur Rani Chennamma remains a legend, especially to the women of Karnataka. The climate here is considered to be a local steppe climate. During the year, there is little rainfall in Chitradurga. The Köppen-Geiger climate classification is BSh. The temperature here averages 25.3 °C. The rainfall here averages 576 mm. Chitradurga Fort was built between the 10th and 18th centuries by the kings various dynasties during that period which are Rashtrakutas, Kalyana Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar and Nayakas of Chitradurga. After Nayakas lost it to Hyder Ali in the year 1779, the fort was given its finishing touches by Hyder Ali along with his son Tipu Sultan. It comprises a series of seven enclosure walls in Kannada. On the upper part of the fort Eighteen ancient temples can be found and in the lower part of the fort there is one huge temple. Among these temples the oldest and most interesting is the Hidimbeshwara temple. The masjid was an addition during Hyder Ali's rule. The fort's many interconnecting tanks were used to harvest rainwater, and the fort was said to never suffer from a water shortage. This seemingly impregnable fort has 19 gateways, 38 posterior entrances, a palace, a mosque, granaries, oil pits, four secret entrances and water tanks. Chandravalli caves is located amidst three hills namely Chitradurga, Cholagudda and Kirubanakallu. These caves are a never-ending maze of steep steps that lead into passageways, rooms and ante-rooms where kings from the Kadamaba, Satavahana and Hoysala dynasties resided. And saints of the Ankali Math of Belgaum meditated in the temples. These caves are well ventilated but there is no light as its pitch dark inside the secret rooms that's why the kings used these rooms in case there was a threat of an intrusion. | ||
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| 37 | Karkala | Karkala is a town and the headquarters of Karkala taluk in the Udupi district of Karnataka, India. Located about 60 km from Mangalore, it lies near the Western Ghats. The town was called Pandya Nagari during the period of Jain rule, and later became known as Karikallu, then Karkal and finally to Karkala. Karkala has a number of natural and historical landmarks. It is located at the bottom of Western Ghats covered with greenery around the year. It is one of the major junction for the religious tourists. It is located strategically on the way to Sringeri, Kalasa, Horanadu, Udupi, Kolluru Mookambika and Dharmasthala. History and origin: Karkala dates back to the beginning of the 10th century. Black granite is abundant in the area, and is in wide use in the local architecture. The name of the town is derived from kari-kal, meaning black stone in Tulu. Some assert that the original name was 'Kari Kola' meaning 'elephant lake' which is the existing 'Anekere'. Tulu-speaking people call the town Karla. Kannadigas call it Karkala, and the Roman Catholics call it Karkol. Its alternative name, Jain Tirtha, is the result of 300 years of Jain rule. It was called Karkal by the English; later, it was called Karkala in Kannada. Karkala is on the top of a granite bed that is about 300–500 ft thick. The Alupas were the first to rule Karkala. Their rule was followed by the Santaras, who were the feudatories of Alupas for many years. Karkala, or ancient Pandya Nagari, attained political and cultural importance from the time of the Kalasa-Karkala kingdom that was established by Bhairarasa Odeyas between 13th and 16th centuries. The Bhairarasas appear to be the descendants of the Santara chiefs, who ruled the western ghats region around the 11th century AD. The royal family of Karkala shot to prominence right from the time of the Hoysalas. During the Vijayanagara period this family reached new heights of glory. Their kingdom extended over a wider area comprising Sringeri, Koppa, Balehonnur and Mudigere in Chikamagalur and most of the Karkala taluk. They were rich and maintained a large army. Despite engaging in wars, peace prevailed in the kingdom and this led to increased cultural activity and development. The first important king was Veera Bhairava, who constructed basadis at Karkala and endowed land and money to numerous temples and basadis. Ramanatha and Veerapandya were his two sons. Ramanatha died during his father's time. In his memory, a scenic lake called Ramasamudra was created, which still survives. King Veera Pandya, at the insistence of his Guru Lalitakeerti, the pontiff of Karkala Jaina Math, installed a large statue of Bahubali on the rocky hill of Karkala. The date of the installation has been ascertained as February 13, 1432. Veera Pandya also installed the Brahmadeva Pillar in front of the statue in 1436. Abinava Pandya ascended the throne next and it was he who installed a carving of manastambha in front of the Neminatha Basadi in Hiriyangadi in 1457 AD. An intricately carved 54-foot-high (16 m) pillar stands in front of the Basadi. The Neminatha Basadi was renovated in 1946. An oriental school with free boarding and lodging facilities is being run here by the Bhujabali Brahmacharya Ashrama. Abhinava Pandya's successor was Pandya VI. He built the Kere Basadi in the middle of a lake called Anekere in 1545 AD. It is in this lake that the king's elephants used to bathe. The Basadi and the lake still exist. Chaturmukha Basadi: The next important king was Immadi Bhairava (Bhairava II). He constructed the Chaturmukha Basadi on top of a small rocky hill in 1586 AD. The Basadi has four identical entrances from the four quarters leading to the Garbagriha and hence is popularly known as Chaturmukha Basadi. It is referred to as Tribhuvana Tilaka Jina Chaityalaya and Ratnaraya Dhama in some inscriptions. The Chaturmukha Basadi is built in the form of a square mandapa or hall with a lofty doorway and pillared portico on each of its four sides and a pillared verandah. The roof is flat and is made of massive granite slabs. It has lifesize statues of three theerthankaras on each side and small images of 24 Tirthankara. It took 30 years to construct this temple. In all, there are 108 pillars inside and outside the temple. This place also came under the rule of Tippu Sultan, known as the Tiger of Mysore. In addition to his role as ruler, he was a scholar, soldier, and poet. It was under him that some of the untold and disappearing landmarks of Karkala were made. One of the most imminent of the time was the Kotay kani moat made in front of the Karkal Kotay castle, which was used during his war against the East India Company. In this war against EIC, few of Indian Kingdom of Mysore's elite soldiers with huge contribution and service towards the land and kingdom were granted Title and Land in the township of Karkalla. One such title is Karkala Patayath(K.P). Second such marvel of the same regime is to discover the usage of a Gavi (or cave) route to travel to various surrounding location unseen through the mountains located near Shivati Kere (Lord Shivas lake). There are 18 basadis of antiquity, including Mahaveera Basadi, Chandranathaswamy Basadi, Adinathaswamy Basadi, Ananthanatha Basadi, Guru Basadi, and Padmavathi Basadi. However, the rulers of Karkala were tolerant towards other religions. Therefore, temples of other religions exist, including the temples of Anantashayana and Venkataramana, Mahamaya Mukhyaprana, and Adi Shakti. The St Lawrence Church was built in 1845 in a village called Nitte (Attur hamlet) where people of all religions congregate every year in January for the feast of St Lawrence. This section does not cite any sources. Please help improve this section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (September 2011) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) The Alupas were the first to rule Karkala. Their rule was followed by the Santaras, who were the feudatories of Alupas for many years. Karkala, or ancient Pandya Nagari, attained political and cultural importance from the time of the Kalasa-Karkala kingdom that was established by Bhairarasa Odeyas between 13th and 16th centuries. The Bhairarasas appear to be the descendants of the Santara chiefs, who ruled the western ghats region around the 11th century AD. The royal family of Karkala rose to prominence during the time of the Hoysalas. During the Vijayanagara period, they expanded their kingdom to cover Sringeri, Koppa, Balehonnur, and Mudigere in Chikamagalur and most of the Karkala taluk. The king Veera Bhairava constructed basadis at Karkala and endowed land and money on numerous temples and basadis. Ramanatha and Veerapandya were his two sons. Ramanatha predeceased his father, and in his memory, a lake called Ramasamudra was created, which still survives. Later, King Veera Pandya installed a large statue of Bahubali on the rocky hill of Karkala. The date of the installation has been ascertained as February 13, 1432. Veera Pandya also installed the Brahmadeva Pillar in front of the statue in 1436. His successor, Abinava Pandya, installed an intricate 54-foot-high (16 m) carving of manastambha in front of the Neminatha Basadi in Hiriyangadi in 1457 AD. Later, Pandya VI built the Kere Basadi in the middle of a lake called Anekere in 1545 AD. There are 18 basadis of antiquity, including Mahaveera Basadi, Chandranathaswamy Basadi, Adinathaswamy Basadi, Ananthanatha Basadi, Guru Basadi, and Padmavathi Basadi. However, the rulers of Karkala were tolerant towards other religions. Therefore, temples of other religions exist, including the temples of Anantashayana and Venkataramana, Mahamaya Mukhyaprana, and Adi Shakti. The St Lawrence Church was built in 1845 in a village called Nitte (Attur hamlet) where people of all religions congregate every year in January for the feast of St Lawrence. Karkala is a town of historical importance and a pilgrim centre for Jains. Jainism is widely practised here. The single stone 41.5 feet (13 m) statue Gommateshwara (Lord Bahubali) is located about 1 km from the center of the town and is the second tallest in Karnataka . There are about 18 Jain basadis here. This statue of Lord Bahubali was installed at Karkala on February 13, 1432 on the instructions of the pontiff of Karkala, Lalitakeerti. There are several other temples, mosques and churches in and around Karkala. Several jain temples were constructed namely Chaturmukha Thirthankara Basadi, Hiriyangaddi Neminatha Basadi, and Anekere Padmavathi Basadi. All of these sites mentioned are listed in Archaeological Survey of India, Government of India. The other statues of Bahubali in the state are at Shravanabelagola installed by Chavundaraya, which is 57 feet tall, at Venur installed by Timmaraja, which is 35 feet (11 m) tall, and at Dharmasthala installed by Dr. Veerendra Heggade, which is 39 feet (12 m) tall. Mahamastakabhisheka: Every twelve years, hundreds of thousands of Jain devotees congregate to perform the Mahamastakabhisheka, a ceremony where the Gommateshwara statue is bathed and anointed with milk, water, and saffron paste and sprinkled with sandalwood powder, turmeric, and vermilion. The last Mahamastakabhisheka was held in February 2002, and the next will be in January, 2015. An annual Rathotsava is held in February. Mahamasthakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali: The Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali at Karkala will be held during January 21–31, 2015 under the auspices of the Sri Bahubali Swamy Mahamasthakabhisheka Samithi. The towering 41.5 ft. granite monolith of Bahubali - also known as Gommateshwara - is built on an elevated platform on top of a rocky hill, known locally as Gommata Betta. Gommateshwara is also known as Gommata and Gomateshwara. The colossus was consecrated on 13 February 1432 A.D. by Veera Pandya Bhairarasa Wodeyar, scion of the Bhairarasa Dynasty, feudatory of the Vijayanagara Rulers. The Mahamastakabhisheka (ceremonial anointment) of the statue is done once every 12 years, a Jain religious rite that dates back to ancient times. The ceremonial anointing will be done customarily from the top of a specially constructed scaffolding, when water from 1008 kalashas (pots) will be poured over the Gommata, as a purification rite. The abhisheka (ceremonial bathing) then begins to the heralding of bugles and the beat of drums. Milk from kalashas and large containers is poured on Gommateshwara, followed by clouds of white rice powder. Next, the statue is anointed with coconut water and sugarcane juice. Liquid turmeric and red sandalwood paste then cover the Gommata in hues of amber and mahogany. Next comes the libation of ashtagandha - a combination of eight scented substances - followed lastly by a shower of flower petals. The splendid ceremony ends with the washing of the Gommata with the clear waters of the poorna kumbhas and the arathi of lit lamps. This unique event draws thousands of pilgrims from all over the country as well as across the world, who are enriched by the cultural experience. Jainism was introduced in Karnataka by Lord Mahaveera in the 6th Century B.C during the course of his travels, when he converted Jivandhara, the king of the Hemangada Country into Jainism. Foretelling a major famine, Monk Bhadrabahu, a leading figure of the Jain religion in the kingdom of Magadha in the 3rd century B.C, led a major migration to Karnataka with Emperor Chandra Gupta Maurya and attained samadhi in the area now known as Shravanabelagola. By the 10th Century, Jainism had become a powerful force in the coastal regions of Karnataka and centres were established all along. With the ascendance of Hinduism, the influence of Jainism waned in the country, though Karnataka still has active Jain pilgrimage centres. Mahamastakabhisheka, held once every 12 years and Attur Fest, held once a year are some festivals of Karkala which attract major crowd from all over the country. Landmarks: Karkala is a pilgrimage location for Jains and it attracts tourists. There are several Hindu temples, Jain Basadis, Mosques, Churches and lakes in Karkala. Padutirupathi Karkala: Padutirupathi is a temple dating back to the 14th century when the Jain Bhairarasa Odeyars ruled Karkala and surrounding place. It still serves as a gathering place for the people of Karkala today. St. Lawrence Shrine: St. Lawrence Shrine, or Attur church, was built in the 18th century by Christians who fled Tippu Sultan rule in India. It is a Catholic church dedicated to St. Lawrence, and serves the Christian population of India. | ||
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| 38 | Sirsi | Sirsi is a city in the Uttara Kannada district in the Indian state of Karnataka. Sirsi was also known as Kalyanapattana during the Sonda Dynasty. It is a tourist destination with a population of 95,574. It is the largest city and main commercial centre and business hub in Uttara Kannada district. The city is surrounded by forest and the region is popular for a large number of waterfalls. Hubli and Shimoga are the nearest large cities. The main businesses around the city are mostly subsistence and agriculture based. Adike (Supari) (Areca nut) or (betel nut) is the primary crop grown in the villages that surround the city, making it one of the major trading centres for Arecanut. The nuts grown there are transported all over India, and also exported abroad. The region is also popular for many other spices like cardamom, pepper, betel leaves and vanilla. The major food crop is paddy and rice is the staple food of the people. Sirsi is about 425 km from Bangalore. The nearest airport is located in Hubli, about 102 km from Sirsi. River Aghanashini begins at a place near Sirsi called "Donihalla" and flows towards the Arabian Sea in the West. The river also creates many waterfalls along its path. Yana is a village located in forests of the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, which is known for the unusual rock formations (karst) or (asteroid). It is located in the Sahyadri mountain range of the Western Ghats, about 60 kilometres (37 mi) from Karwar port, 40 kilometres (25 mi) from Sirsi, and 31 kilometres (19 mi) from Kumta. The two unique rock outcrops near the village are a tourist attraction and easily approachable by a small trek through 0.5 kilometres (0.31 mi) of thick forests from the nearest road head. The climate in Sirsi is strongly influenced by the monsoons, and the climate is tropical, moderated by proximity to the sea. During the monsoons, the region receives one of the heaviest rainfall in the world. As a result, the region also has a large variety of wildlife. The vegetation in the region is mainly moist deciduous, and valuable timber wood is commonly found in the forests of the region. Owing to the rich flora and fauna, deforestation and poaching have been causes for concern in recent years. The climate of Sirsi is moderate with winter temperatures rarely dropping below 13 degrees Celsius. Summers can get uncomfortable due to the proximity to the ocean. The best time to visit Sirsi is during winter, when the humidity is lower and the nights can get slightly chilly. The highest temperature recorded here is 40 degrees Celsius and the lowest is 5.8 degress Celsius respectively. By road: Sirsi is linked to other parts of the state many state highways. Couple of National Highways are sanctioned by the Ministry of Transport, Government of India passing through Sirsi namely Yellapur-Sirsi-Talguppa and Kumta-Sirsi-Haveri which will be developed and maintained by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Sirsi is linked to neighboring district headquarters of Dharwad, Udupi, Haveri, Belaaum, Shimoga and Mangalore. The state corporation has a network of buses to all major cities and towns in Karnataka, Maharashtra and Goa. VRL, SRS,Seabird, Shreekumar travels and Sugama Transport are the major private bus operators. By train: The nearest railhead is at Talguppa. Talguppa is 54 km from Sirsi. Talguppa railway connects Bengaluru city via Sagara. Major railhead is Hubli, which is the Zonal Headquarters of South Western Railways. By air: The nearest airport is in Hubli and the other is Belgaum which are about 2.5 hrs and 5 hours drive from Sirsi respectively. Hubli is connected to Bangalore, while Belgaum is connected to Bangalore, Mangalore and Mumbai by air. Bedara Vesha artist: Yakshagana is a classical dance drama popular in the state of Karnataka mainly in the districts of North Kanara, Shimoga, Udupi, South Kanara and Kasaragod district of Kerala. There are several Yakshagana artists in and around Sirsi and it is being regularly played in Sirsi. Traditionally, Yakshaganas used to start late in the night and run entire night. Bhagavatha along with background musicians who play Chande and Maddale forms himmela. The actors who wear colorful costumes and enact various roles in the story forms Mummela. Yakshagana is sometimes simply called as Aataa in both Konkani and Kannada (meaning play). Yaksha-gana literally means the song (gana) of a Yaksha. Yakshas were an exotic tribe mentioned in the Sanskrit literature of ancient India. In Sirsi Holi is celebrated with a unique Carnival. Folk dance called "Bedara Vesha", Which is performed during the nights beginning five days before the actual festival day. The festival is celebrated every alternate year in the town which attracts a large crowd on all the five days from different parts of the India. Dollu Kunitha is also another folk dance of Sirsi performed during Bedara Vesha and Marikamba Jathra. Shri Marikamba Temple: Sirsi is famous for the Marikamba temple, built in 1688 and renovated at periodic intervals. The 'Marikamba Jaathre', commemorating the goddess Marikamba, is held by the temple authorities every alternate year. Nearly a lakh Hindu devotees from all parts of the country attend the fair, making it one of the biggest festivals in the region. Sodhe: Sodhe or Sonda or Sonda or Swadi flourished during the Vijayanagara Empire and is a considered to be a sacred place by both Hindus and Jains. Sonda is famous for Shri Vadiraja Matha, Shri Swarnavalli Matha and is about 15 km from Sirsi. Jain Matha: A Jain Matha exists there and it is headed by Bhattaraka Swasti Sri Bhattakalanka. The Sonda Jain Matha is also known as the Swadi Jain Matha. Churches: St. Anthony's church is in Sirsi and is situated in the center of the town, and is the main church for the minority Christian population in the region. Another church is St. John Bosco Church situated on Hubli Road. One more beautiful church is Infant Jesus Church in Agasebagil. St.Paul's Mar Thoma Church is situated near the Zoo Circle. Prominent places in the Taluk of Sirsi: Banavasi, the capital of an ancient kingdom in Karnataka (state) ruled by the Kadamba Dynasty is 24 km away from the Sirsi town center. Banavasi is considered as the "first" capital of Karnataka state, with the current capital being Bangalore. Although most of the ancient grandeur of the dynasty in Banavasi has been lost, an ancient temple for Madhukeshwara (Lord Shiva) is still largely intact, and has been declared a monument of historical importance by the Archaeological Survey of India. Sahasralinga (Sanskrit for a thousand Shiva (deity) lingas) is another place of significance, where Shiva's sculptures carved out of stones thousands of years ago can be found in the middle of a flowing river. The river is surrounded by lush green forest; the place is about 10 km from the town center. The place is quite secluded, except during "Maha Shivaratri" celebrations when it receives a sizeable number[clarification needed] of pilgrims from the surrounding areas. Sonda, famous for its Sri Vadiraja Matha, and Swarnavalli Mutt are about 15 km away from Sirsi. Unchalli Falls, (also known as Keppa Joga, referring to the other more famous waterfall nearby, Jog falls) is situated about 30 km from Sirsi, and is one of the biggest tourist attractions near Sirsi. The waterfall is a 116-meter drop and offers spectacular views at all times of the year. Yana, known for the unusual rock formation. It is located 40 kilometres (25 mi) from Sirsi. Nature and terrain: Sirsi is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers alike, owing to its idyllic location in the middle of the Western Ghats. Many viewpoints and mountain peaks provide spectacular views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges. The region is also popular for numerous medicinal plants used in the traditional Ayurveda system of medicine, and there are protected reserves near Devimane Ghats for the conservation of medicinal species and biodiversity in the region. | ||
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| 39 | Dandeli | Dandeli is a town in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, in the Western Ghats region. A significant part of Dandeli's population consists of economic migrants from all over India, especially the north/south Indian states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Andhra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and many districts of the Karnataka state. The official and predominant language of communication is Kannada. The diversity of its population is reflected in its culture, and the Dasara, Ramleela, Ganesh Chaturthi and Deepavali festivals are all celebrated. Old Dandeli: As per the 1930 census, the population of Dandeli was only 515 and predominantly worked in the forestry department and government saw mill. Most residents belonged to the Konkanis, Devali, Marathas, Kuruba, Lambani, Negro, and Muslim communities. The settlement was located on the bank of the Kali river and developed into an industrial town with the establishment of a number of companies, including Indian Plywood Mill, Lalbhai Ferro-manganese Factory, West Coast Paper Mill, Indian Saw Mill, and a number of small industries around the Dandeli and Karnataka Power Corporation which were engaged in the construction of several power-generating dams at different places along the Kali river. The place was later called Old-Dandeli. There was no school in the small town until in 1936, when Shivaji Narvekar, Pundalik Pai, Sadanand Gopal Nadkarni, Balappa Chavan and Bapshet together contributed to build a one-room school in a hut on the nearby hill where now the government Urdu school is situated. Ramachandra Ganapat Nayak migrated from Sanikatta near Gokarn to run the school. The school started with merely 18 students, three of whom were older than their teacher, R.G. Nayak. In 1939 the school was recognised by the British government. Name: A local legend states that the city is named after Dandelappa, a local deity, a servant of the Mirashi landlords, who lost his life because of his loyalty. An alternative legend states that a king named Dandakanayaka passed through the forests and named them after himself, and the city is believed to stand on the place where Dandakaranya stood when he named the area. It has an average elevation of 473 metres (1,552 ft) and has received heavy rainfall during August to November (see chart below). Because of good forest cover and moderate elevation, the location has a tropical highland climate, averaging about 27 °C (81 °F) in summer and 18 °C (64 °F) in winter. Dandeli is a natural habitat for wildlife, including tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur, deer, antelopes, and bears. It is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka and was designated as a tiger reserve in 2007. The jungle is also home to several varieties of reptiles and almost 300 varieties of birds. The rapid expansion of industry has raised fears of ecological damage to the area, and local volunteer groups have formed to address the issue. Dandeli resorts have become an attraction for wealthier, mobile residents from India and elsewhere. The biodiversity in the forest has attracted sufficient tourism to support a number of resorts in the vicinity of Dandeli. The government has promoted eco-tourism with proper planning of the healthy breeding of wild animals. The natural beauty of the area attracts tourists from other parts of India and abroad. It is an adventure sports destination, and a white-water rafting destination in South India. It is one of the few locations where rafting is possible even in peak summer months of March to June. Temples and Matha: 1) Shiva Mandir 2) Datta Mandir 3) Nagadevata Mandir (Ambewadi) 4) Ram Mandir 5) Balamuri Gnaesh Mandir (Ganesh Gudi Road) 6) Raghavendra Swami Math (Town ship) 7) Shankaracharya Math (Town ship) 8) Mrutyunjay Math (Bank Of Kali River) Dandeli is surrounded by natural, historic, and religious landmarks: the River Kali, the caves of Kavla, the Syntheri Rocks, the Ulavi temple, Sykes point and the Supa hydroelectric dam. Karnataka's power corporation is situated in Ambikanagar (18 kilometres or 11 miles from Dandeli), where electricity is generated through hydro-power. Nagajhari power house is also there. The sanctuary provides rafting opportunities at the Virnoli Rapids connected to the Kali River. Other tourist activities include nature walks, boating, bird watching, crocodile spotting and angling. Nearby tourist spots include Ulavi, Syntheri Rocks, Anashi National Park, and Moulangi. | ||
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| 40 | Karwar | Karwar is a city in Uttara Kannada district in the South Indian state of Karnataka and the administrative centre of Uttara Kannada district. Karwar lies on the west coast of Southern India at the mouth of the Kali river. Its geography creates a natural harbour with protection against monsoon weather. Being a port town, Karwar is a centre for agriculture, manufacturing and tourism. Kot Siveshvar, another fortress, was built near Karwar (in Siveshvar village) by the Sultan of Bijapur to counterattacks from the north. At the ruins of Fort Siveshvar are a Muslim graveyard and a tunnel at the eastern gate. Portuguese traders knew Karwar as Cintacora, Chitrakul, Chittakula or Sindpur. In 1510, the Portuguese captured and burnt a fort at Karwar. They called it Fort Pir, Forte de Piro or Pito due to the presence of a Muslim Dargah (tomb of a Sufi saint, Shahkaramuddin). In the 17th century, refugees from Portuguese rule in Goa moved to Karwar. Marathas: Having marched from Bednore in the south, visiting on his way the sacred temple at Gokarna, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj seized Ankola and the next day came to Karwar (then known as Kadwad).[1] Both the East India Company and Sher Shah, the sardar of Bijapur, were very much alarmed at this sudden development. They collected huge amount and offering it to Shivaji, prayed that they may be spared. Satisfied at the recognition of his authority, Shivaji crossed the Kali River and conquered Sadashivgad on 21st Feb 1665; In 1638 the English trading Courteen Association established a factory at Kadwad village, 6 km east of Karwar and traded with merchants from Arabia and Africa. The common commodities were muslin, black pepper, cardamom, cassier and coarse blue cotton cloth. In 1649 the Courteen Association merged with the British East India Company, and Karwar became a company town. The East India Company built fighting ships in the Karwar harbour. For example, the Britannia (1715) which had 18 guns was built to defend Bombay from attacks by Maratha admiral Kanhoji Angre. In the 1700s Karwar was part of the Maratha Empire. In 1784, at the time of the Treaty of Mangalore between Tipu Sultan and the East India Company, Karwar and Sadashivgad were spelt Carwar and Sadasewgude, respectively.[4] After the defeat of the Marathas in the Third Anglo-Maratha War, Karwar fell to the British. The Bengali poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, who visited Karwar in 1882, dedicated a chapter of his memoirs to this town.[5] At 22 years, Tagore stayed with his second brother, Satyendranath Tagore, who was a district judge in Karwar. From 1862 to the re-organisation of the states, Uttara Kannada district was part of the Bombay Presidency. During this time, major public works carried out included improvement of roads, building of a wharf, wharf road and a sea wall at the Karwar port as well as the construction of a multi-floor storage building, staff housing, a post office, kutcheri (kutcherries or zamindar's offices) and a Christian burial ground. During World War II Karwar was an Indian Naval training site. Local bird, Malabar starling(Sturnia blythii). Karwar is rich in flora and fauna Karwar is a seaside city on the west coast of the Indian peninsula. To the east are the Western Ghats. Karwar is situated on the banks of the Kali river (Kali nadi) which flows west to the Arabian sea from its headwaters at Bidi village in the Western Ghats. The Kali river has a length of about 153 km and is the main source of irrigation for Karnataka. Karwar is 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) south of the Karnataka - Goa border, 273 kilometres (170 mi) north of Mangalore and 519 kilometres (322 mi) north-west of Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka. Baitkhol port at Karwar is a natural harbour with land side hills and ocean side islands protecting it from cyclonic weather. The four fathom mark lies close to the shore. The tidal range is 1.2 to 2.5m. Biodiversity: Several small mangrove covered islands lie off the Kali river estuary including Anjadip Island and Devagadaguda Islands. The sub-tidal regions of the islands have a high biodiversity, although the waters off Karwar have recorded higher than normal faecal coliform counts.[8]:248 Tagore beach: "The sea beach of Karwar is certainly a fit place in which to realize that the beauty of Nature is not a mirage of the imagination, but reflects the joy of the Infinite and thus draws us to lose ourselves in it. Where the universe is expressing itself in the magic of its laws it may not be strange if we miss its infinitude; but where the heart gets into immediate touch with immensity in the beauty of the meanest of things, is any room left for argument?" - Rabindranath Tagore Karwar is known for its seafood cuisine. Fish curry, with cashews, coconut and rice is a staple dish. Karwar curries use ginger and turmeric but not always garlic.[17] Kurumgad jatra: Sao Jao, where garlands of freshly picked fruits leaves and flowers are worn and people jump into wells, ponds, rivers, and lakes. Anjediva Island Church Feast On 2 February (But Years Back This Church Feast Has Been Discontinued Because Of Indian Navy Acquired The Island. This Was The First Church Built In India By Portuguese Before Coming Of St: Francis Xavier In India. Karavali Utsav, an annual three of four day festival at Tagore beach, Rabindranath. It is organised by the Uttara Kannada District Administration as a cultural and social event. Many shops and stalls are installed at Tagore beach. People from all parts of the district and from all over the state and neighboring Goa state attend. Many cultural events are held in the evenings where regional, national and international artists including Bollywood stars, Kannada film stars, Goan artists and local artists perform. Karwar Utsav, in summer season where local artistes and celebrities come and perform. | ||
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| 41 | Udupi | Udupi also known as Odipu, is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is the administrative headquarters of Udupi District. Udupi is notable for the Krishna Temple, Tulu Ashtamathas and lends its name to the popular Udupi cuisine. It is also known as Lord Parashurama Kshetra, and is famous for Kanakana Kindi. A centre of pilgrimage, Udupi is known as Rajata Peetha and Shivalli (Shivabelle). It is also known as the temple town. Manipal is a locality within Udupi city. Udupi is situated about 60 km north of the industrial hub Mangalore and about 422 km northwest of state capital Bengaluru by road. Yakshagana in Udupi: Bhuta Kola, Aati kalenja, Karangolu, and Nagaradhane are some cultural traditions of Udupi. The residents celebrate festivals such as Makara Sankranti, Krishna Janmashtami, Navaratri, Deepavali, Eid al-Adha, Eid al-Fitr and Christmas. Folk arts like Yakshagana are also popular. Rathabeedhi Geleyaru and Kalavrinda are local non-profit organisations, founded to encourage creative pursuits, especially those that keep alive the traditions of the region. Its primary focus has been historic dramas. There are several festivals during which huge crowds of locals as well as outsiders gather in Udupi. During the biennial Paryaya festival, the temple management is handed over to the next Matha. Each of the Ashtamathas (eight mathas) is headed by a Swami, who will be in charge of the pooja or worship of Lord Krishna, not to mention, the temple, during his 'Paryaya'. The Paryaya ceremony is held on 18 January on even years (like 2012, 2014 and so on), starting early in the morning at around 3 AM. During this festival there are representative tableau which gather near the entrance of the town (called 'Swagata Gopura' meaning the arc of welcome). Festivals like Makara Sankranti (the day the idol's prathisha was done), Ratha Sapthami, Madhwa Navami (the day on which the Acharya Madhwa disappeared while he was teaching his disciples, the exact place of which is still marked and visited by devotees, near the matha), Madhwa Jayanti (the birthday of the great saint Madhwacharya), Vijaya Dashami, Hanuma Jayanthi, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Navaratri Mahotsava, Naraka Chathurdashi, Deepavali, Geetha Jayanthi, Daasara aradhanas, etc. are celebrated with grandiosity by the Paryaya Mutt every year. Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated every year. During this festival groups of men wear 'Pili Vesha' (in Tulu; Huli vesha in Kannada), which literally means 'tiger costume'. They visit houses and shops around Udupi, to perform a rather unusual dance. There is a lot of enthusiasm among the participants and public. A yet another signature celebration is the Bhajana Saptaha Mahotsava, held in Sri Laxmi Venkatesha Temple, by the Goud Saraswat community. 'Saptaha' means 7 days and throughout these 7 days, Bhajans are sung, day and night by devotees. This event takes place every year during the month of August, starting from Nagara Panchami till the next Dwadashi. Rathothsava (Chariot Festival) is held in almost all occasions around Rathabeedi. A ratha (chariot) carries a 'utsava moorthi' of Lord Krishna. This chariot is pulled by devotees around Rathabeedi. Though, Rathothsava is common in the Hindu form of worshiping, Udupi is known for the multiplicity and beauty of the chariots and festivals. Masala Dosa is a part of Udupi cuisine: The term Udupi (also Udipi) is synonymous with vegetarian food now found all over world. The origin of this cuisine is linked to Krishna Matha (Mutt). Lord Krishna is offered food of different varieties every day, and there are certain restrictions on ingredients during Chaturmasa (a four-month period during the monsoon season). These restrictions coupled with the requirement of variety led to innovation, especially in dishes incorporating seasonal and locally available materials. This cuisine was developed by Shivalli Madhwa Brahmins who cooked food for Lord Krishna, and at Krishna Matha in Udupi, the food is provided free of cost. Restaurants specialised in Udupi cuisine can be seen widely in most metropolitan and large cities around the length and breadth of India. A three-screen cinema multiplex Inox Movies has started in the newly built Central Cinemas in the foothills of Manipal; it is located in Udupi-Agumbe State Highway 65 near Syndicate Circle of Manipal. Apart from this, other cinema theaters in the city are Alankar, Ashirvad, Diana, Gitanjali and Kalpana. Kalpana is near old Diana restaurant circle. Alankar, close to Kalpana theater, is in the mid-city nearby Udupi bus terminus. Gitanjali, close to Alankar, is in Maruti Vithika nearby junction of SH 37 and 65. Diana theater is near Chitpadi and Kukkikatte on Udupi-Subrahmanya State Highway 37 and Ashirvad is placed in Santekatte on the Edapally (Kerala)-Panvel (Maharashtra) National Highway near Robosoft Technologies Pvt Ltd and PVR Cinemas are planning to open cinemas in Udupi. Kaup beach on the shore of Udupi : Udupi is known for the Krishna Mutt (Temple of Lord Krishna) and as the native place of the Vaishnava saint Shri Madhvacharya, who founded the (Dvaita) sect of Vaishnava Hinduism and the Udupi Krishna Mutt (in the 13th century). He is known as the third form of Mukhya praana (literally meaning 'primary life source'), after Hanuma and Bheema. For Vaishnavas and Dvaitas all around the globe, including ISKCON, Udupi is a significant place. It is of historic importance due to it being the birthplace of a new branch of philosophy and of a great philosopher and saint. The Krishna Matha is known throughout the world for its religious customs, traditions, and learning in Dvaita philosophy. It is also the center of Daasa Sahitya, a form of literature that originated in Udupi. Transport: National Highway NH 66 passes through Udupi. Other significant roads include the State Highways to Karkala and Dharmastala and to Sringeri. The NH-66 provides a link to Mangalore and Karwar via Kundapur. Private as well as government buses connect Udupi to parts of Karnataka. Udupi has a railway station on the Konkan Railway. The nearest International Airport to Udupi is Mangalore International Airport, which is 50 km away. City and suburban transport is available for travel within Udupi and suburbs. The buses originate from the suburban bus stand (City Bus Stand). There are different route numbers. The nearest harbour/port to Udupi is Malpe, which is 5 km away, and Gangolli (Byndoor), which is 36 km away. The New Mangalore Port is 50 km away from Udupi. Udupi railway station is managed by the Konkan Railways. It is about 4 km from Udupi city and is on the Kanyakumari-Mumbai rail route. Direct trains are available to Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi, Amritsar, Chandighar, Pune, Ajmer, Jaipur, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Okha. Cities like Mysore, Belgaum, Jodhpur, Agra, Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kollam(Quilon) etc. also connected with Udupi. Konkan has a beautiful scenic view throughout its way. | ||
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| 42 | Davanagere | Davanagere, also spelt Davangere, is a city in the heart of the southern indian state of Karnataka. It is the sixth largest city in the state, and the administrative headquarters of eponymous Davangere District. Hitherto being a cotton hub and hence popularly known before as the Manchester of Karnataka, the commercial ventures of the city is now dominated by education and agro-processing industries. Davanagere became a separate district in 1997, when it was separated from the erstwhile undivided district of Chitradurga for administration conveniences. Davanagere is known for rich culinary traditions which encompass the diversity of entire Karnataka's dishes due to its geographical position in the state as its epicentre. Notable among them is its aromatic benne dose that is associated with the name of the city. Davanagere has been selected as one of the hundred Indian cities to be developed as a smart city under PM Narendra Modi's ambitious flagship Smart Cities Mission. It even went on to be featured in the list of first 20 cities to be developed under the mission by Urban development ministry, released on 28 January 2016, after being scrutinised stringently for several parameters. It is believed that the Chalukyas were used to halt at this place to rest after a long horse-ride. A lake ("kere" in Kannada language) was excavated for them to quench their thirst. The place thus came to be known as "Devan giri" (an abbreviation of 'danivina kere' for lake for the exhausted and the thirsty) and eventually "Davanagere". However no lake exists as of today, and no concrete historical and literary evidences exist to prove this theory apart from unconfirmed verbal folklores. Another popular theory that revolves around, is the name of the city being derived from its previous name of Devanagari, meaning the city of divines. Davanagere has been a pioneer in municipal administration with the city attaining the status of a municipality as early as 1870. The Imperial Gazetteer of India (1911) says that the receipts and expenditure of the municipality, during the ten years ending 1901, averaged Rs 14,200 and Rs 12,600 respectively. The civic administration of the city was managed by the Davangere City Corporation (Davanagere Mahanagara Palike), before it was established as a municipality on 7 August 1951. It now has the status of a City Corporation, and gained this on 6 January 2007. It is headed by a mayor, assisted by commissioners and council members. The city is divided into 41 wards, and the council members (corporators) are elected by the people of the city. History: Davanagere was originally an obscure village, forming one of the suburbs of Bethur. Sultan Hyder Ali gave it as jagir to a Maratha chief named Apoji Ram, who encouraged merchants to settle there. While Apoji Ram died without heirs, the place continued to grow, favoured by Tipu Sultan. Till the 1980s, Davangere used to be popularly referred as the Manchester of Karnataka due to its numerous cotton mills, many of which were of national and international repute. Availability of cotton led to the establishment of many cotton mills from prominent business families of the city. This fame was lost in time as cotton mills were shut down gradually. The city however continues to be a major trading centre of agricultural commodities. Irrigated paddy fields near Shamanur Davanagere is the "Heart of Karnataka". Davanagere is surrounded from Chitradurga, Ballari, Shivamogga, Chikkamagalur and Haveri districts. Davanagere lies in the Maidan region on the Deccan Plateau. The district is bounded by Shivamogga (Malenadu) Area of Hills, Haveri, Chitradurga, Chikkamagalur and Ballari districts. The southern and western parts of the district are irrigated by the waters of the Bhadra reservoir. Davanagere has mixed communities with majority being Hindus. Though the city experienced religious riots in the 1990s,the communities have made efforts to bridge the misunderstanding and demonstrating solidarity towards maintaining peace. Languages Spoken: Kannada is the major language spoken.The Kannada particular to Davangere has mild regional influences. Davanagere is well-connected by road to Bengaluru, Hubli, Pune, Goa, Mangalore and Chennai through National Highway 4 (India) (previously Pune-Bengaluru Highway and now Mumbai-Pune-Bengaluru-Chennai Highway). Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation, has a divisional office situated in Davanagere City. The city is well-connected to Bengaluru and other cities in the state by KSRTC buses. Many privately operated buses offer overnight services to other places within the state. The city's railway station comes under South Western Railway Zone (India) and was constructed during the British period and has been renovated recently. The station code is DVG. The railway station is quite conveniently located in the centre of the city. Regular train services are available to travel towards Bengaluru, Hubli and Mysore. The nearest airport to Davanagere is Hubli Airport (IATA:HBX), which is 143 kilometres (89 mi) from the city. The ubiquitous Autorickshaws are the backbone for travelling within the city. The city bus services are operated by both private as well as state owned buses. The aromatic and the delicious Davangere benne dosa Davangere has mixed blend of South and North Karnataka food patterns. Jowar Roti which is common in Karnataka and Ragi mudde Chapathi, Rice, Akki Rotti, which is common in South Karnataka are seen in Davangere. Davangere benne dosa is arguably the most well known contribution to the culinary world and it has found a well-deserved place in the menu cards of all well-known restaurants in Karnataka. There are a few restaurants in Singapore and USA that serve this specialty of Davangere. in Davanagere specialfor benne dose hotel is "Nammu Dose" which is situated at #190 3rd Main,P.J Extension. The second most popular snack eaten by the local population is spiced puffed rice called 'Nargis Mandakki'( puffed rice in Kannada) especially eaten with hot chilli Bhaji (Fritters). Another unique sweet dish called “Guladiki unde" is quite popular. most popular benne dose hotels are SAGAR BENNE DOSE hotel located near jayadeva circle A new University has been established in 2008 at Davangere named as Davangere University. All degree colleges in Davangere district, and Chitradurga district come under Davangere University. | ||
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| 43 | Kolar | Kolar is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is the headquarters of Kolar District and is known for gold mining. Kolar is popularly known as the land of silk, milk, and gold. The town is famous for the Someshwara temple and the Kolaramma temple. Kolaramma is considered as Grama devathe for Kolar. It is located at a distance of about 70 kilometres (43 mi) from Bengaluru and 50 km from Bangalore International Airport 32 kilometres (20 mi) from Kolar Gold Fields. The city is located on the southern maidan (plains) region of Karnataka. The Ammerallikere, a tank, forms its eastern boundary. To the north is the Kodikannur tank, the main source of water supply to the city. The nearest railway junction is Kolar. Kolar is having good road transportation than, Rail amenities. It is situated on the Bengaluru - Chennai National Highway-75. Kolar is also The gateway for Tirumala Via National Highway 75 History of Kolar: Mostly the two unknown kings of Kolar were King "Indra Teja"and "The king Keshav Krishna Bahadur Bam" They were also known for their anonymous friendship. They ruled Kolar from (1797-1834) their death is still a mistery The Western Gangas sovereignty lasted from about 350 to 550 CE, initially ruled from Kolar as their Capital City. The founder of the Western Ganga dynasty was Konganivarman Madhava, who built Kolar as his capital around 350 and ruled for about twenty years. He succeeded by his son Madhava I. Kolar, the headquarters of the Kolar district, was earlier known as Kuvalalapura, also known as Kolahala Pura. Historically, Kolar is said to be associated with the epic age, which recalls many legends associated with Avani in Mulbagal Taluk, which was also called Avani Kshetra. It was once known as Avantika- Kshetra, a sacred place in Kolar district in Karnataka State. It was famous for its religious establishments from ancient times. It was once known as Aavanya which was under the Ganga prince Madhava Muttarasa, who governed several districts. In about A.D 890, its earliest grant relates that Tribhuvana Kartara Deva, who held the title of Kali Yuga Rudra, ruled over the Avaniya Thana for 40 years. During this period he constructed 50 temples and two large tanks. Maharshi Valmiki, author of the epic Ramayana, lived here. The legend goes further to establish that Seetha Devi, after being sent to exile, gave birth to her twins Lava and Kusha at Avani. The Avani continued to survive as a religious establishment from the 9th to 11th centuries. There are temples dedicated to Lord Rama. Antharagange: The hill to the west of Kolar, called the Shatasringa Parvata or 'Hundred-Peaked Mountain' is 'Antharagange', associated with the story of Parasurama and his fight with King Kartaviryarjuna over Surabhi, the divine cow. As the story goes, King Kartavirya Arjuna (Sahasrarjuna) and his army visited Jamadagni, Parasurama's father, when the king demanded the magical cow from Jamadagni. When Jamadagni refused, the King sent his soldiers to take the cow, but Parashurama killed the entire army and the king with his axe. In return, the princes beheaded Jamadagni. Thus, Parasurama took an oath to behead the entire Kshatriya race, which is said to have taken place on the hills. It is said that the 'kolahala' on the death of Kartaviryarjuna gave its name to the town, which later become Kolar. Kannada is the main languages spoken in the district of Kolar. Telugu is also spoken. Gangas built beautiful temple of Sri Uttameshwara temple in Uttanur Mulbagal Talluk Antaragange: Antaragange is one of the tourist attractions Of Kolar. It is also known as "Dakshina Kashi Kshetra". In the temple is a pond which gets a continuous flow of underground water from the mouth of a Basava (stone bull). There is a steep, narrow path to the top of the mountain. There are seven villages on this mountain, including Therhalli, papanayakana halli, Kenchegowdana Halli and several others. On the occasion of full moon day, the cultural association called AADIMA arranges, cultural activities. Which is attended by many notable scholaras and artistes of Kannada drama industry. The mountain consists of granite rocks and lot of caves around. Antaragange is 4 Kilometers away from Kolar and 71 Kilometers away from State capital Bangalore. You can scale the heights of this mountain or hill by your own feet or Govt. of Karnataka laid a road to provide transportation facility to villagers who lives in the villages of hill and for the tourists. In the hill you can find a Dargah also. Nowadays Antharagange became hotspot for reality sector. The prices of the land in the hill shoots up to several millions/lakhs per acre. At the top of the hill you can find many more interesting things, which you can't expect somewhere else in the world. Indra Tej is famous in Kolar. The major temples in the town are the Kolaramma Temple and the Someswara Temple. Someswara Temple is a fine example of the Vijayanagara style, complete with a massive pillared Mukha Mandapa, heavy Prakara walls, ornate Kalyana mantapa, a Devi Shrine and a lofty Gopura with fine stucco figures on the tower; while the door frame is carved in the typical Vijayanagara style, with dwarapalas, etc. The temple has a large tank (Kalyani) also. There are Vijayanagara inscriptions on the wall of the store room and the yagashala, dated to the 15th century. Kolaramma Temple: This "L"-shaped temple has two shrines, one for Durga (Kolaramma) and the other for the Saptamatras. Both have a common vestibule. The Durga Shrine has a wagon-roof tower. The stucco figures in the Saptamatras shrine are unusually large. The temple is of Dravida Vimana Style, built in the Ganga Tradition (11th century). The Mahadwara has imposing pavilions in the inner side. The temple contains several Chola inscriptions, the earliest belonging to Mr. Yendeti (1012-1045). Hyder Ali Tomb is also found. Islamic religion also plays a very important role. Many Dargahs are also found like Khutub Gowri Dargah in heart of the city, A Dargah above the Antaraganga Hill, etc., Number of mosques are also found all over Kolar. In Kolar you can find both the streams of Christianity, like Roman Catholic and Protestants. Both have their own church. Catholic Church is located near mekke Circle and Methodist or Protestant church located exactly opposite to Shri T. Chennayya Rangamandir or T. Chennayya Auditorium. Transportation: Kolar has transportation amenities such as Buses, Taxis, and Auto Rickshaws. Kolar also has a local transportation facility " Antaragange Kolara Nagara Sarige" which was inaugurated in July 2012. Railways: The district headquarters has a railway station connecting two destinations: 1. Bangalore - Via Bangarpet 2. Chikkaballapura - Via Srinivaspura | ||
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| 44 | Dharwad | Dharwad is the district headquarters of Dharwad district in the state of Karnataka, India. It was merged with the city of Hubballi in 1961 to form the twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad. The word "Dharwad" means a place of rest in a long travel or a small habitation. For centuries, Dharwad acted as a gateway between the Malenaadu (western mountains) and the Bayalu seeme (plains) and it became a resting place for travellers. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word 'dwarawata', 'dwara' meaning "door" and 'wata' or 'wada' meaning "town". A different theory suggests that during the Vijayanagara rule of Dharwad there was a ruler by name "of Dharav" (1403), and Dharwad got its name from him. There are some inscriptions that refer to Dharwad as Kampana Sthana. Inscriptions found near Durga Devi temple in Narendra (a nearby village) and RLS High School date back to the 12th century and have references to Dharwad. This makes Dharwad at least 900 years old. Also, there is an inscription at Hanuman Temple at Bokyapur lake near Garag (a village about 18 km from Dharwad). The Chalukyas ruled Dharwad during the 12th century. A stone inscription indicates that there was a ruler by the name of BhaskaraDeva in 1117. In the 14th century, the district was first overrun by the Bahmani Sultanate, after which it was annexed to the newly established Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar, an official of which named Dhar Rao, according to local tradition, built the fort at Dharwad town in 1403. After the defeat of the king of Vijayanagar at Talikot (1565), Dharwad was for a few years practically independent under its Hindu governor; but in 1573 the fort was captured by the sultan of Bijapur, Adil Shah, and Dharwad was annexed to his dominions. Adil Shah built a fort in an area later called Manna Killa, and later Nazratabad. With this fort, the strategic importance of Dharwad increased and it thus attracted the attention of subsequent conquerors, including Aurangzeb, Shivaji, Aurangzeb's son Mu Azam, Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and finally the British colonizers. In 1685, the fort was taken by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, and Dharwad, on the break-up of the Mughal empire, fell under the sway of the Maratha Peshwa of Pune. In 1764, the province was overrun by Hyder Ali of the Mysore, who in 1778 captured the fort of Dharwad. The fort was retaken in 1791 by the Marathas. After the final defeat of the Peshwa by the British in 1818, Dharwar was incorporated into the territory of the British East India Company's Bombay Presidency. During the early 19th century, when the British were expanding their domains, they faced a lot of opposition from local rulers, including Baba Saheb of Naragund and Kittur Chennamma. Dharwad was the home to the movement to unify Kannada speaking areas that eventually became Karnataka state. Dharwad was peaceful for most of the late 19th century. During those times, the British started an English medium school in Dharwad in 1848. Later, in 1863, the Basel Mission organization started another school. In 1867 the British opened another school, Varmal school, which later on became known as a training college. In 1883, the municipality area included Sidapur, Lakamanhalli, Haveri Pete, Bagtalan, Madihal, Galaganjikop, Malapur, Kamalapur, Narayanpur, Saptapur, Atti kolla and Hosayellapur. The British government also established a railway station in 1888. The town had a station on the Southern Maratha railway. By 1901, the town had a population of 31,279 and was home to several cotton gina, a cotton mill, and two high schools, one maintained by the government and the other by the Basel German Mission. After India's independence in 1947, the Bombay Presidency was reconstituted as India's Bombay State. In 1956 the southern, Kannada-speaking districts of Bombay State, including Dharwad, were added to Mysore and renamed Karnataka in 1972. Dharwad is home to the Karnataka UniversityKarnataka University and the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) as well as numerous other colleges the town is also home to B.V.Bhoomaraddi College of engineering and Technology which in the year 2015 was converted into KLE's Technological University. In 1941, Dharwad had a population of 47,992. In 1961, the town merged with the adjacent town of Hubballi to become a single municipality, Hubballi-Dharwad. The population of the twin cities is the second-largest in Karnataka, after Bengaluru. Hubballi-Dharwad's population increased 22.99% between 1981 and 1991, from 527,108 to 648,298, and by 21.2% between 1991 and 2001. In the year 2008, a Circuit bench of the High Court of Karnataka was established in Dharwad. In 2013, along with Gulbarga circuit bench, Dharwad circuit bench was upgraded to a permanent High Court bench after president's approval. Very soon the city is going to have a branch of Karnataka Administrative Tribunal (KAT) covering the entire North Karnataka state. Dharwad is situated on the edge of Western Ghats and hence is a hilly town. Spread over seven small hills at an average altitude of 750 meters above sea level, the city enjoys a salubrious climate amidst thick vegetation. Years ago, Dharwad was known for its lakes but several have now dried out. The lakes that still exist are Sadhankeri, Kelgeri (a man made lake created during British rule, almost 100 years old), Navalur, Hosayallapur and Nuggikeri. The city still has a few more small lakes left, in spite of rapid urbanization. Dharwad sits at the cusp of two distinct geographical divisions - Malenadu (hilly, forest land with red soil) and Belavalanaadu (Deccan plains with black soil). Dharwad has plenty of green cover. Karnatak University's Botanical Garden is a sanctuary for many rare plants, trees and birds. Kelgeri, Sadhanakeri, Navalur and Nuggikeri are also homes for water birds. Climate The climate is mildly hot during the summer (April–May), and pleasant during rest of the year, as it is at an altitude of about 750m, plus still has a lot of greenery round. Dharwad is well known as a quiet and pleasant city popular with students and pensioners. The average yearly rainfall is 838mm Dharwad is known as Chhota Mahabaleshwar due to its excellent climate throughout the year. Summers are mildly hot with occasional thunderstorms, lasting from late February to early June. They are followed by the monsoon season, with moderate temperatures and a large amount of precipitation. Temperatures are fairly moderate from late October to early February, with virtually no rainfall. Culture: Dharwad is famous for its contributions to Indian classical music and to Kannada literature. It has prestigious educational institutions as well as the main campus of Karnataka University. The Dharwad pedha - a milk-based sweet - from this town is very popular. Music: The Dharwad region has contributed some of the greatest exponents of Hindustani classical music including Sawai Gandharva, Mallikarjun Mansur, Bhimsen Joshi, Basavaraj Rajaguru, Madhav Gudi, Kumar Gandharva and Gangubai Hangal. Currently active artists include Jayateerth Mevundi and Pandit Venkatesh Kumar. Dharwad is an unlikely outpost of the Kirana Gharana. Ustad Abdul Karim Khan was a frequent visitor to Mysore Darbar, where he had been conferred the title of Sangeet Ratna. On the way to Mysore, he used to stay with his brother in Dharwad, where he taught his most famous disciple, Sawai Gandharva. Sawai Gandharva in turn was the guru to Gangubai Hangal, Bhimsen Joshi and Basavaraj Rajaguru. Dattatreya Temple: Dharwad is also known for the best of its social activities such as Bharat Scouts and Guides, District Headquarters, BS&G, in Karnatak, even at national level. This association is wholly operated / managed by the eminent personalities Such as Shri. Malhar M. Londe and, District Commissioner for Scouts and Guides with support of Mrs. Prabha M. Londe and this association is fully governed, monitored under the guide lines by the Hon. District Collector, Govt. of Karnatak. Bus: Dharwad is well connected by road, rail and air. NWKRTC (North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation) is a state run corporation headquartered at Gokul Road, Hubballi. There is excellent inter-city transportation between Hubballi and Dharwad as NWKRTC and Bendre Nagara Sarige (a consortium of private bus-owners) healthily compete to cater to the large number of commuters between Hubballi and Dharwad daily[citation needed]. Bus services from the twin-cities exist to every part of Karnataka and neighbouring states and other popular destinations. There are many private bus operators who render services for overnight travel between Dharwad and Bangalore, Mangalore, Pune, Mumbai, Hyderabad. A BRTS project is also proposed to connect the twin cities of Hubballi and Dharwad more efficiently. Rail: Several express and passenger trains ply between Dharwad and Bengaluru every day. Hubballi is an important railway junction. Dharwad has daily trains to Gadag, Bagalkot, Vijayapura, Solapur, Ballari, Belagavi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Davangere, Pune, Delhi, Visakhapatnam Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Vijayawada, Mysore, Tirupati and weekly services to Chennai, Howrah and Thiruvananthapuram. 12725/Siddhaganga Intercity Express terminates in Dharwad Station. Air: Hubballi has an airport on Gokul Road IATA code: HBX. AirCosta provides flights to Bangalore and Mumbai. Chandramouleshwara Temple: Chandramouleshwara Temple A temple of Chalukya times, dedicated to god Chandramouleshvara (another name of Shiva), with impressive architecture can be seen in Hubballi. Nrupatunga Hill: A hillock which serves as a picnic spot for the citizens of Hubballi-Dharwad. Unkal Lake: A pictorial water spot with a magnificent sunset view, this perfect picnic spot has green garden, recreational facilities for the children, boating facilities, etc. The lake is 6 km from Hubballi. Indira Gandhi Glass House Garden: This is a public garden with recreational amenities maintained by city municipality. It houses a large glass building resembling a similar structure in Lalbagh of Bengaluru. Indira Glass House has been renovated into a more beautiful park. The entry fee here is ? 10 for elders and ?5 for children. Inside the park is a small toy train in which you can get on and enjoy the park. The most beautiful and interesting thing to be watched here is the 'musical fountain' performance, that is arranged on every weekend i.e. Saturday and Sunday and on Governmental holidays without any extra charge. Dharwad Regional Science Center- Near Karnatak University Campus, Dharwad, is the Science and Cultural, a museum in Dharwad which is well organised and maintained with full of information about the science / technology and knowledge about the ancient history of Indian villages/culture. It is really wonderful place to see as sight seeing spot for the Dharwad-ians and outsiders who wish to visit Dharwad on tourism or a day picnic, too. It is really very educative/entertainment interactive museum for the students from 1st Standard to 10th Standard. Banashankari Temple Amargol Utsav Rock Garden: It is a unique sculptural garden with depicts the life of rural Karnataka. It is the first of its kind in Karnataka where you can find more thousands of sculptures depicting the lifestyle of rural Karnataka. It is located near NH4, Gotagodi village, Shiggaon taluk, Haveri District, Karnataka. Utsav Rock Garden | ||
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| 45 | Koppal | Koppal is a town in Koppal district in the Indian state of Karnataka. Koppal is surrounded on three sides by hillocks and was an important town in the history of Karnataka, popularly known as Kopana Nagar. It contains historical locations such as Koppal Fort, Gavimath(a religious shrine) and the Male Mallappa Temple. Koppal is known as Jaina Kashi meaning sacred place for Jains, named because there were more than 72 Basadis (also called Basti)-Jain Prarthana mandir. Mahadeva Temple at Itagi in the Koppal district, 1112 CE, an example of Karnata-Dravida articulation with a nagara superstructure Most notable of the many buildings dating from the time of the Western Chalukya Empire are the Mahadeva Temple at Itagi in the Koppal district, the former capital of Vijayanagar emperors, Anegondi, the Kasivisvesvara Temple at Lakkundi in the Gadag district, the Mallikarjuna Temple at Kuruvatti, and the Kallesvara Temple at Bagali. The last two are both in the Davangere district. Other monuments notable for their craftsmanship include the Siddhesvara Temple at Haveri in the Haveri district, the Amruteshvara Temple at Annigeri in the Dharwad district, the Sarasvati Temple in Gadag, and the Dodda Basappa Temple at Dambal, both in the Gadag district. The Mahadeva Temple: The Mahadeva temple at Itagi dedicated to Shiva is among the larger temples built by the Western Chalukyas and perhaps the most famous. Inscriptions hail it as the 'Emperor among temples'.[6] Here, the main temple, the sanctum of which has a linga, is surrounded by thirteen minor shrines, each with its own linga. The temple has two other shrines, dedicated to Murthinarayana and Chandraleshwari, parents of Mahadeva, the Chalukya commander who consecrated the temple in 1112 CE. Soapstone is found in abundance in the regions of Haveri, Savanur, Byadgi, Motebennur and Hangal. The great archaic sandstone building blocks used by the Badami Chalukyas were superseded with smaller blocks of soapstone and with smaller masonry. The first temple to be built from this material was the Amrtesvara Temple in Annigeri in the Dharwad district in 1050 CE. This building was to be the prototype for later, more articulated structures such as the Mahadeva Temple at Itagi. The 11th-century temple-building boom continued in the 12th century with the addition of new features. The Mahadeva Temple at Itagi and the Siddhesvara Temple in Haveri are standard constructions incorporating these developments. Based on the general plan of the Amrtesvara Temple at Annigeri, the Mahadeva Temple was built in 1112 CE and has the same architectural components as its predecessor. There are however differences in their articulation; the sala roof (roof under the finial of the superstructure) and the miniature towers on pilasters are chiseled instead of moulded. 9th century old Kannada inscription at Navalinga temple in Kuknur, Karnataka The difference between the two temples, built fifty years apart, is the more rigid modelling and decoration found in many components of the Mahadeva Temple. The voluptuous carvings of the 11th century were replaced with a more severe chiselling. Kuknur: In Karnataka their most famous temples are the Kashivishvanatha temple and the Jain Narayana temple at Pattadakal, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Other well known temples are the Parameshwara temple at Konnur, Brahmadeva temple at Savadi, the Settavva, Kontigudi II, Jadaragudi and Ambigeragudi temples at Aihole, Mallikarjuna temple at Ron, Andhakeshwara temple at Huli, Someshwara temple at Sogal, Jain temples at Lokapura, Navalinga Temple at Kuknur, Kumaraswamy temple at Sandur, at Shirival in Gulbarga and the Trikunteshwara temple at Gadag which was later expanded by Kalyani Chalukyas. Archeological study of these temples show some have the stellar (multigonal) plan later to be used profusely by the Hoysalas of Belur and Halebidu.[14] One of the richest traditions in Indian architecture took shape in the Deccan during this time and one writer calls it Karnata dravida style as opposed to traditional Dravida style. Hideout for Balkrishna Hari Chapekar: Domical ceiling in Mahadeva Temple at Itagi, the Koppal district In the year 1897 Balakrishna Hari Chapekar, one of the three Chapekar brothers, involved in the shooting of Ryand and Ayrest in Pune,[16] was arrested by one Mr. Stephenson in the district of Raichur. For this arrest the Hyerabad Police received a reward from the Government of Bombay. Balakrishna Hari Chapekar seems to have stayed for more than six months in the hills between Koppala and Gangavathi which were then in the district of Raicur. He attracted a great deal of sympathy from the local people. In spite of the enquiries made by the Government of Bombay, the Hyderabad Police refused to reveal the names of the informers who were responsible for the arrest of Balakrishna Hari Chapekar. Their names have not been mentioned, in the statement of the distribution of rewards. This demonstrates the strong sympathy among the local population for the Chapekars and how deeply were the informers afraid of the revelation of their names. The arrest of Chapekar, which took place at the end of 1898, reveals the movements of Maratha revolutionaries in the State of Hyderabad. | ||
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