Shimoga, located in the state of Karnataka is a true gift of nature and scenic landscapes. The stunning hill station getaway has something to offer for everybody. Hence, the places to visit in Shimoga are as varied and diverse as the landscape itself. With a pleasant climate and mesmerizing sceneries, these best places to visit in Shimoga will make sure you have a refreshing holiday out there. So, check out the places you would like to visit :
1. Dabbe falls
Dabbe Falls, nestled within the lush green folds of Saravathi Wildlife Sanctuary, is a hidden gem in the Shimoga region of Karnataka. The word ‘dabble’ translates to ‘steps’ in the native language. Therefore, the reason behind such a name is the streambed of the Dabbe falls which resembles steps or to be more precise. Its a kind of terrace jutting out from the steep wall of the cliff. The waterfalls and pools in each step before it overfills and forms a cascading wall of water down to the next step. However, this continues making Dabbe one of the most picturesque scenes to behold in the region.
2. Jog Falls
The view from “Jog Falls Falling Point” is located near the Kodakani village of Siddapura, Uttara Kannada. However, Jog Falls is also called by the names such as Gerusoppe falls, Joga jalapatha and Jogada Gundi in regional language ‘Kannada’. It is the 2nd highest plunge waterfalls in India. Additionally, it is a segmented waterfall which depends on rain and season becomes a plunge waterfall. The falls are major attractions for tourists and are ranked 13th in the world by the waterfall database.
3. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small picturesque island located in the River Tunga. Nearly 32 km from Shimoga town on the way to Thirthahalli. Indeed, the perfect time to explore the island is from July to October. Adding which the island is visited by a plethora of migratory birds such as darter, egret, snake-bird, cormorant, etc.
4. Gajanur Dam
Located 12 kilometers from Shimoga, popularly known as ‘The gateway of Malnad’, is a small village- Gajanur. This small town is enthroned with River Tunga’s presence and is home of many beautiful birds. Therefore, the Gajanur Dam is built across the River Tunga and is one of the scenic picnic spots for the tourists. Surrounded by lush green fields, plantations, and forest, the dam is a feast to the eyes.
5. Barkana Falls
Barkana Falls is one of the ten highest waterfalls in India. The waterfall is located in Balehalli forest area, at a distance of about 7 km from the Agumbe village in Shimoga district of Karnataka. The waterfall has a height of about 850 ft. It is located at a height of about 259 meters above sea level. It originates from the Seeta River that flows through this region.
6. Tyavarekoppa
A popular picnic spot rich in fauna; Tyavarekoppa is located about 10 km from Shimoga town. Whereas, covering a huge area of 200 hectares, the place is renowned for its Lion and Tiger Safari which commenced in the year 1998. Apart from safari, the place also inhabits animal like the leopard, deer, sloth, etc. Meanwhile. a zoo and a children’s park can also be enjoyed at Tyavarekoppa.
7. Koodli
Koodli is the place where two rivers, the Tunga River and Bhadra River, meet to give rise to the Tungabhadra River. Indeed, the rivers are worshipped and considered sacred. At the confluence, there is a 12th-century Rameshvara Temple with Hoysala era architecture. Additionally, there is also a popular Sri Chintamani Narasimha Swamy Temple here. There are two mutts in the Koodli, One is Shankara mutt & another one is Akshobhya Thirtha Mutt.
8. Linganamakki Dam
Linganamakki Dam is one of the largest human-made water reservoirs of the country. However, the length of the dam is a mere 2.4 km but owing to the width, its water storing capacity is much higher than any other dam. The scenery here is exhilarating with magnificent views of forested islands and hills covered in dense foliage. Indeed it has resulted in beautiful backwaters, dotted with myriad islands. The islands are rich in biodiversity, and it is a lot of fun hopping from one to another on a kayak.
9. Nagara Fort
Travelers are recommended to visit Nagara Fort, popularly known as Bidanur Fort, on their trip to Kodachadri if time allows. Whereas, this fort is located at a distance of about 25 km from the mountains of Kodachadri. Belonging to Keladi Dynasty, this fort was erected during the 18th century. However, some parts of the site are now in a ruined state while the rest have been rebuilt
using red bricks.
10. Kunchikal Falls
Kunchikal Falls located on the Shimoga- Udupi highway in Karnataka is India’s highest waterfalls situated on River Varahi. Additionally, there is also a hydro-electric plant installed on the waterfalls to generate electricity. Situated amidst the dense lusty woods, the waterfalls are also a popular trekking spot.
So, if your next trip to Adventure is Shimoga then you are Awesome.
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