KARNATAKA :
Karnataka is situated on the western edge of the Deccan plateau and its neighbours are Maharashtra and Goa on the north, Andhra Pradesh on the east, Tamil Nadu and Kerala on the south, and on the west it opens out to the Arabian Sea. The area of this state come to 191,791 sq km. Bangalore, the Garden city, is also nicknamed as the Silicon Valley of India, is the Capital of this southern state.

The state has the history of more than 2000 years. Apart from it being subjected to the rule of the Nandas, Mauryas, and the Satavahanas, Karnataka came to have indigenous dynasties like the Kadambas of Banavasi and the Gangas from the middle of the middle of the 4th century AD. The Chalukyas, the Rashtrakutas and others also once ruled over it.

The state is divided into 27 districts, and is well connected by roads, railways, air and waterways. Bangalore, Belgaum, Mangalore and Hubli are the main airports. New Mangalore Port is the main all-weather seaport in Karnataka which mainly handles cargo vessels. It has a sea coast of nearly 400 km (300 with inundations).

Karnataka, the eighth largest state of the Indian Union is a compact treasure chest encompassing a dazzling array of tourist delights. Ancient monuments, modern cities, teeming wildlife, friendly people, towering hills, endless beaches. A kaleidoscope of exciting experiences to delight the senses. Each spot in Karnataka has something special to offer. Come, delve into the delights that this state has to offer.

Karnataka is a land of fragrance - fragrance of enchanting perfume of sandal and agarbathis, the aroma of fresh roasted coffee beans, the head fragrance of the Mysore Mallige and thousands of roses blossoming. The Kannada-speaking state of Karnataka formerly known as Mysore, has a finely balanced mix of natural attractions and superb historic architecture.

The capital, Bangalore, is the centre of India's science and technology industry and is one of the fastest growing cities in Asia.

Karnataka, the "Lofty land" is bounded by Andhra Pradesh in the east, Maharashtra in the north and Tamil Nadu and Kerala in the south. A long coastline hedged by miles and miles of tall, waving, palmgroves frames this pretty land. The majority of the Karnataka state lies on the Deccan Plateau. Bangalore is the state capital.

Karnataka boasts a diverse flora and fauna, which make it a nature tourist's paradise. The state's long and colourful history, and the many forts, temples, mosques, and churches make Karnataka a great place to explore.

Garden city Bangalore, Jog Falls,the beaches of Karwar and Malpe, Golgumbuz in Bijapur, the stone temples of Belur and Halebid, Mysore Palace, the list is endless.

General Information.

Area: 191,791 Sq. Kms.

Capital: Bangalore.

Population: 52 Million.

Language: Kannada.

Literacy: 39%.

Best time to visit: October to February.

Airports: Bangalore, Mangalore & Belgaum.

The Geography:

Situated on the western edge of the Deccan plateau, it is bordered by Maharashtra and Goa on the North, Andhra Pradesh on the east, Tamil Nadu and Kerala on the South and the Arabian Sea on the West.  As it is on the dividing line between the North and the South of the continent, Karnataka is the state where the North and South truly meet.  The name Karnataka is derived from the Kannada word Kannadu, literally, lofty land and is situated on high plateau land.  The most important river systems of Karnataka are the Krishna and its tributaries in the North and the Cauvery and its tributaries in the South.  Both these rivers flow eastward into the Bay of Bengal, the Krishna passing through Andhra Pradesh and the Cauvery through Tamil Nadu.

The Western Ghats, called Malnad or hill country, have beautiful dense forests with water falls, wildlife parks and crops of teak, Sandal wood and Coffee.  Although parts of Northern Karnataka are barren, rocky and covered with shrub, the state has a lush coastline with exquisite beaches similar to those up north in Goa, but quieter and more relaxed.  The local sport of buffalo racing is conducted with great enthusiasm in the water logged paddy fields along the coast.

Highlights of Popular Places:

 

Temples:  Aihole, Belur, Halebid, Pattadakal & Sravanabelagola.

Beaches: Kundapura, Kudle & Malpe.

Hill Stations: Kodagu (Coorg), Kudermukh.

Wildlife Sanctuaries:  Bandipur & Mudumalai.

Historical Sites:  Hampi ruins.

Cities of Karnataka:- Bangalore, Hampi, Hassan, Mangalore, Mysore.

BANGALORE:

Capital City of Karnataka.

Bangalore often referred to as the Garden City for its numerous parks and avenues of jacaranda, gulmohar and cassia is the sixth largest and one of the cleanest cities in India.  World – class technological excellence has earned it the sobriquet, India’s Silicon Valley and today it rivals Chennai as the most important metropolis in the South.  Thanks to India’s booming computer software industry most of which are based in Bangalore.

 

Founded by Kempa Gowda in 1537 and a British garrison town for about 50 years from 1831, the dramatic growth of the city in the last 3 decades has almost completely destroyed its architectural heritage.  The colonial style bungalows with big gardens in the front have almost all given way to high rise commercial buildings and apartments.  Only the High Court and the Bangalore Club have survived till date.

 

Although often noisy and crowded with frequent traffic jams, Bangalore’s affluence and cosmopolitan nature has bred a pub culture similar to those in western countries but unique India.  Flashy bars, well – lit discos, pubs serving draught beers and a number of exclusive nightclubs frequented by the well-heeled youngsters and office goers make Bangalore surprisingly different from the more laid back cities of the South.  Excellent shops and cinemas, a variety of places to stay and dine, a convenient transport network, salubrious climate, all contribute to making a couple of days stopover at Bangalore well worth its while.

 

Bangalore at a Glance:

Population: 4.5 Million.

Main Language: Kannada.

Best time to Visit: November to April.

 

Getting There:

 

Air : All major domestic and International Flight operate to Bangalore.

 

Rail: There are two Railway Stations in Bangalore:  Bangalore City & Cantonment. 

Some of the major destination connected by train from Bangalore are: Chennai, Delhi, Ernakulam [Kochi], Hospet, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Mysore and Thiruvanthapuram.

 

Road:  Bangalore is well connected by roads within itself and to the rest of the Country.  There are regular bus services by both private and government agencies, which connect Bangalore day to all major destinations of the Southern state and to Goa, Mumbai & Hyderabad.

 

Places of Interest in Bangalore:

 

Vidhana Soudha – Located at the Northern end of Cubbon Park, which house both the houses of the State Legislature and the Secretariat.  Built in 1954 in the neo-Dravidian style of architecture, it is one of Bangalore’s most impressive structures.

 

Cubbon Park & Museums – This 120 hector park laid out in 1864, is the main ‘lung’ of the city and provides a pleasant escape from the surroundings urban chaos and is especially popular with local people fro morning walks and exercises.  It has beautifully laid out lawns, grassy expanses, flowering trees, children’s play ground, bandstand and a restaurant.  The neoclassical red buildings that house the Public Library and the High Court are located within the Park. The Government Museum here is the oldest in India and was established in 1886.  It contains a collection of Stone Carvings, Pottery, and Weapons etc from all over Karnataka.

 

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens – Located in the southern suburbs of Bangalore city is this beautifully laid out 96-hectare landscaped botanical garden, founded in the 18^th century by Hyder Ali and developed by his son Tipu Sultan.  It contains centuries' old trees that are labelled for easy identification, lakes, lotus ponds, flower beds, a deer park, fountains and a rare collection of tropical and subtropical plants.  Horticultural shows are organised twice a year in February and August.

 

Bull Temple – Built in the 16^th century by Kempa Gowda, this Dravidian style temple on Bugle Hill in Basavangudi is the oldest in Bangalore.  It houses a massive granite monolith of Nandi – Lord Siva’s bull vehicle.  It is beloved to have grown is size and is maintained by polishing it with a mixture of charcoal and groundnut oil.

 

City Market – A twenty-five minute walk away from the City Railway Station is this typical Indian bazaar with tarpaulin covered fruit and vegetable market, a spice market, plenty of garland sellers, cloth shops and an entire street lined with tailor shops.  Although it is not a major tourist attraction, the vendors are friendly and it is worth a quick visit.

 

Fort & Tipu Sultan’s Palace – Close to the City Market area is the site where Kempa Gowda built a mud-brick defence structure in 1537.  In the 18^th century Tipu Sultan rebuilt it in stone as a proper fort.  Unfortunately, much of it was destroyed during the wars with the British.  Nearby is Tipu Sultan’s summer palace.  This two storied ornate structure is noted for its elegant teak pillars.  It was begun by Hyder Ali and completed by Tipu in 1791.

 

Ulsoor Lake – It is indeed a pretty picnic spot in the heart of the city.  There are motorised dinghies and row boats available here for hire.  Once of Kempa Gowda's watchtowers stand sentinel nearby and there is also a public swimming pool here.

 

EXCURSIONS:

 

Whitefield – About 20 Kms from the city centre is this small township where a number of farms and holiday homes of the upwardly a mobile are located.  This quite place is home to Sai Baba’s summer ashram ‘Brindavan’ and the recently operational state-of –the-art Information Technology Park where the offices of many multinational computer software giants are located.

 

Bannerghatta National Park – Located 21 Kms south of Bangalore is this modest National Park, which is home to a small population of leopards.  A ‘safari’ is staged here where you can see Lion, Tigers and Elephants in a fenced-in-area.  There is also a snake and crocodile farm here.

 

Nrityagram - Set up under the auspices of the late Odissi dancer Protima Gauri to revive Indian Classical dance forms, this village 30 kms northwest of Bangalore was designed by award-winning Goan architect Gerard Da Cunha. Recently bough out by the Taj Group of Hotels, the village welcomes visitors.

 

Nandi Hills – Located about 68 Kms out of Bangalore off the Hyderabad Highway is this truly scenic hill, once a favoured summer retreat of Tipu Sultan and later the British colonists. At about 1615 m above sea level, it offer’s a truly majestic view of the plains, and is open on all days from morning till dusk.

 

Antharganga Hill – This is one of the best places for hiking and breathtaking scenery. Located at Kolar, 70 kms away from Bangalore, there are steps all the way to the top.  There is a temple on the way and at the end of the climb you arrive at a delightful plateau where you can enjoy the undisturbed birdlife and explore the small village located here.  It is easy to make a day trip here from Bangalore.

 

 

SOUTHERN KARNATAKA

 

MYSORE

 

Situated 140 Kms away from Bangalore is the former princely city of Mysore with its magnificent palaces, and a myriad of historical sites.  This charming and easy-going city with beautiful parks and shady avenues has always been a favourite with travellers.  It enjoys an equable climate and is renowned for its silk, sandal wood and incense industries.  Mysore is Karnataka’s second largest city.

 

Local Information:

The Railway Station is on the north-western fringe of the city, just about a kilometre from the main shopping street, Sayaji Rao Road.  The Mysore Palace occupies the entire south-eastern sector of the city centre.  The central bus stand is on Bangalore road and the Chamundi Hills is an ever-visible attraction on the southern horizon.

 

Getting There and Around.

 

Air: There are not flights to Mysore.

 

Rail: Mysore is well connected by frequent trains to Bangalore, Arisikere, Hassan, Mangalore and Chennai. Passenger train connecting Mysore and Bangalore stop at Srirangapatnam.

 

Road: Mysore is well connected by roads within itself and to the rest of the Country.  There are regular bus services by both private and government agencies, which connect Mysore to all major destinations of the Southern state and places likes Mangalore, Ooty, Kannur and Cochin.

 

 

Dussehra Festival.

The 10-day festival of Dussehra is the most important here and it is celebrated as a state festival during the month of October every year.  The entire city, during this time is gaily decorated and illuminated and cultural programs are arranged for the public in the palace ground. This is an excellent time to visit Mysore.  On the last day of the festival, the former Maharaja leads one of the most colourful processions in India, complete with richly caparisoned Elephants, liveried retainers, cavalry and gaudy garlanded images of deities.  The procession makes its way through the thoroughfares accompanied by sound of Jazz and Brass bands in clouds of incense.

 

Places of Interest:

The Mysore Palace: Henry Irwin the then consulting architect of the colonial government of Madras designed this beautiful Indo – Saracenic palace, the seat of the Maharajas of Mysore after a fire burnt down the Old Wooden Palace.  It was built at a cost of over Rs. 4.2 Million and was completed in 1912.  The former maharaja is still in residence at the back of the palace.

 

One of the largest palaces in the country, inside it is a kaleidoscope of stained glass, mirrors, guilt, wall paintings and ivory inlaid doors.  The solid gold throne studded with jewels is put on display only during the Dussehra festival.  This superbly maintained palace has even a selection of temples within its grounds including the Shweta Varahaswamy Temple. On Sunday nights and during the entire Dussehra festival, 97,000 electric bulbs illuminate the building in a spectacular display between 7 and 8 pm.

 

Jaganmohan Palace & Art Gallery: The Jayachamerajendra Art Gallery is housed in the Jaganmohan Palace since 1875 just west of the Mysore Palace.  It has collection of Wodeyar memorabilia, including fascinating musical machines, rare instruments and paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Nicholas Roerich.  It was originally built in 1861 as a royal auditorium.  It is also illuminated on Sundays between 7 and 8 pm.

 

St. Philomena’s Cathedral: Built in the neo-gothic style between 1933 and 1941, it is one of the largest churches in India.  Although gloomy to look at from the outside, it is white washed and airy inside with beautiful stained glass windows.

 

Mysore Zoo:  The Mysore Zoo is particularly interesting for Children.  Established in 1892, it is set in a landscaped garden, well maintained and houses a good collection on animals, Lion, Tigers, Kangaroos, Hyenas, Deer, Elephants, Swan, Snakes, Crocodiles etc. 

 

Museums:  Located east of the train station is the Rail Museum.  A Maharani’s saloon carriage complete with a royal toilet and built in 1899 is displayed here.  The Museum is opened on all days except on Tuesday. At the Mysore University campus is the Folklore Museum that houses a collection of weaponry, jewels, folk toys, utensils etc.

 

The Art and Archaeology Museum is also located here at the PG Department of Ancient History. Collections include antiques, sculpture inscriptions and coins.

 

The Medical College Museum houses botanical paintings, charts, models and weapons.

 

Devaraja Fruit & Vegetable Market: Stretching along the Sayaji Road is one of the most colourful bazaars in India.  It is indeed well worth a visit and is provides an excellent subject material for photographs.

 

Sandalwood Oil & Silk:  With prior permission, you can visit the government owned Sandalwood factory.  It produces more than half the countries total output of Sandalwood Oil.  You can see how the oil is extracted and how incense is made. 

On Manathandy road is the Silk factory where you can get to see weavers produce the world-renowned Mysore Silk Saris.

 

EXCURSIONS:

 

Chamundi Hill :  10 Kms uphill on the summit of Chamundi hill is the Sri Chamundeswari Temple dedicated to the favoured deity of Mysore, goddess Chamundi who is believed to have slain the demon Mahishasura here and brought peace to the world.  It makes a pleasant half day excursion.  It is accessed both by road and by about 1000 plus steps, which devotees are supposed to climb to fulfil their karma.   About two third of the way down is the famous 5m high and 7.6m wide massive monolith stature of Nandi, Lord Siva’s bull vehicle, similar to the one at Basavangudi in Bangalore.

 

Brindavan Gardens:  These tranquil ornamental gardens are located about 19 kms away from Mysore below the magnificent Krishnaraja Sagar dam.  The dam owes its origins to Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar who built it to provide continuous water supply for the Sivasamudram Power Station. It is one of the biggest dams in the country and forms a 130 sq km lake. 

 

The gardens are popular picnic spot and crowds come every night to see the illuminated dancing fountains, which rise and fall to the rhythm of music, making it a spectacular sight to behold.  There is a small boating lake, bathing pool and plenty of food and drinks stands.

 

Srirangapatnam:  About 16 Kms northeast of Mysore, on the Bangalore road, Srirangapatnam is an island town surrounded by the Cauvery.  Here stand the ruins of the fort capital from which Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan ruled during the 18^th century.  The defeat of Tipu referred to as the “Tiger of Mysore” by the British in 1799 marked the beginning of British territorial expansion in southern India. 

 

The famous Sri Ranganatha Temple originally built in the 9^th century is located within the fort.  Dedicated to an avatar of Lord Vishnu after whom the town is named, the inner hall of this wonderful temple is the most impressive.  Supported by massive pillars, it offers a clear view of the reclining deity in the sanctum.  There are a number of historic sites including the Dungeon where Colonel Baillie was defeated, the Water Gate where Tipu met his end, the Daria Daulat Bagh, the magnificent summer palace of Tipu and the impressive Gumbaz or mausoleum where Tipu was buried.  Conveniently located between Mysore and Bangalore, Srirangapatnam is easily accessible by both road and rail from Mysore.

 

Somnathpur:  This is a tiny village 33 kms east of Mysore and 32 kms southeast of Srirangapatnam, built by the Hoysala King Narasimha III in 1286, is famous for its remarkable Keshava Temple and the only complete one of about 80 Hoysala temples in Mysore.  It has three sanctuaries and stands in the middle of a courtyard with cloisters containing 64 cells around it.  The eastern gateway offers a superb view of the temple standing on a raised platform in the form of a 16 pointed star, with an ambulatory.

 

Talakad & Sivasamudra:  50 kms southeast of Mysore is Talakad on the banks of the River Cauvery.  Here lie the remains of the 4^th & 5^th century Ganga dynasty now largely buried under sand.  The ruins of a few buildings including a 12^th century Hoysala Temple can be seen.  Sivasamudra, which means ‘Sea of Lord Siva’, is 25 kms downstream, where the Cauvery plunges over 100m into a series of wild and inaccessible gorges best seen immediately after the monsoons.  The first Hydro Electric project in India was commissioned here in 1902.

 

Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary: Stretching over 540 sq km, this sanctuary located at 1350m above sea level among the Biligiri Rangana Hills is hard to reach, but cool and scenic.  The best time to see wild life here is between the months of June to October, when animals come out for water at the end of the dry season.  There are wild elephants, sloth bear, barking deer, sambar and wild dogs apart from about 60 different species of birds.  On the highest peak of the hills is the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple the focus the Ratha Festival every year in April. The BRT Sanctuary is about 90 kms from Mysore via Chamrajanagar. 

 

Bandipur National Park:  Established in 1931, the Bandipur National Park forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is joined to the Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu.  It is mainly pristine moist deciduous forest with over 50 species of trees and over 200 varieties of flowers.  There are tigers, jackals, sambar, barking deer, mouse deer, wild dogs, flying squirrels, including a large number of monkeys apart from wild elephants and over 200 different species of birds including the great Indian horned owls.

 

The best time to visit is between March and April although the most comfortable time is between November and February. Hiking is not permitted inside the park.  Bandipur is very easy to reach and you can even come here for a day visit from Mysore, which is about 80 kms drive.

 

Sravanabelagola:  One of the most important centres of Jain pilgrimage, Sravanabelagola is located 90 kms from Mysore.  It is the sire of the huge 17m-high naked statue of Gomateshwara, the world’s tallest monolithic statue.

 

Belur & Halebid:  The Hoysala temples at Halebid and Belur located 16 kms apart are very similar to the one at Somnathpur, east of Mysore.  They are considered to be the best examples of Hindu architecture in India, with their sculptural decorations rivalling those of Khajuraho and Konark. Belur is located 157 kms from Mysore.

 

MADIKERI  [MERCARA].

 

Madikeri is the capital town of Kodagu district.  This elevated charming town formerly known as Mercara is an excellent base to enjoy Kodagu countryside.  Kodagu, which means dense hill country, is the smallest district in Karnataka and is spread over a        delightful area in the Western Ghats, with rolling hills, forest, coffee plantations and hiking opportunity. 

 

The Kodagu’s ir Coorgi’s, as they are better known have a unique culture and are fiercely independent.  They are best know for their coffee, beautiful women and high-ran king military officers. Believed to be descendants of migrating Persians and Kurds they are proud of their martial traditions and are very hospitable.  They also have a distinctive cuisine, in which pork curry [ Pandhi Curry] and rice dumplings [ Kadumbuttu] are all time favourites.

 

Getting There & Around:

Madikeri is well connected to all major places in this part of the country although there are no air or rail services to this town. It is easy enough to walk around.

 

Places of Interest :

 

Madikeri Fort :  This small stone building with its three stone gateways, was built by Lingarajendra Wodeyar between 1812-14, and it situated on the high ground dominating the wotn.  This former palace of the Kodava Kings now houses local government offices including a library and the St. Mark[‘s Church, which is converted as the Government Museum.  The museum houses an interesting collection including British weapons, a boomerang and a stuffed leopard.  The museum is open on all days except Mondays and alternate Saturdays.

 

Omkareshwara Temple : Built in 1821, it is dedicated to both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.  It has an interesting blend of architectural designs with tiles roofs typical of Kerala Hindu architecture with a dome in the centre of a square lake with minarets at each corner that depict Islamic architectural influences.  It is only walking distance from the town and is open all days.

 

Raja’s Seat :  This small garden, built for the enjoyment of former rulers, offer a panoramic view especially at day break or dusk.  Nearby is the miniature train called Baba Sahib Express, which offers you a five-minute ride.  The tombs of the former Kodava kings known as Raja’s Tombs are located in the norther suburbs of the town in a unfenced and permanently open site.

 

Abbi Falls :  Near the Raja’s tombs, about 8 kms out of town in a private coffee estate is this lovely and popular picnic spot.  It is a good place to hike up to from the tombs.  The best ime to visit is immediately after the monsoons between June and September.

 

Kakkabe : Kakkabe has some of the larget farms in Asia and is located beneath the highest peak in Kodagu, the Tadiandamol [1745].  About 2 kms noth of Kakkabe is perhaps the most important temple in Kodagu, the Padi Iggutappa Temple.  The Honey Farm nearby is well worth a visit.  The horticultural gardens and children’s camp site at the Nalanda Palace built in 1791 as a hunting lorge is yet another interesting sire for a visit.

 

Irpu Falls :  The 60m magnificiant Irpu Falls in the remote stretches of southern Kodagu is another excellent palace for hikes.  The trail starts from behind the Shri Rameshwarma Temple on the Lakshmanthirtha River.  Half way up the falls is a pond that is excellent for a very refreshing swim.  The trail leads right up to the very top of the falls from where the view all around is breathtaking.

 

NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK

 

Facts & Figures

Area  16,579 sq km 

Languages  Kannada, Hindi, English 

Best Time to Visit September to May 

 

Introduction

Nagarhole National park derives its name from the combination of two Kannada words-'Nagar,' meaning snake, and 'hole,' meaning streams. True to its name, quite a few serpentine streams fork through the rich tropical forests of the park. Nagarhole Park was set up in 1955. In 1975, its area was increased to include a greater expanse of forest reserve. The original forest was once an exclusive hunting ground for the erstwhile Maharajas of Mysore. The park has been recently renamed as Rajiv Gandhi National Park after the late Prime Minister of India.

 

Nagarhole Park is counted among India's best wildlife parks. It has a large elephant and bison population. It also hosts a variety of animal species along with approximately 250 species of birds. On its northern confines is the Kabini River and on its southern fringes is the Bandipur national park. A dam on the Kabini River and its picturesque reservoir demarcates the two national parks. During the dry season (February-June), this artificial lake attracts a large number of animals, making it an ideal spot for sighting wildlife.

 

Best Time To Visit

The summer (March-May) temperature does not cross the 33°C mark. The brief winter, which lasts from November to January, has temperature plummeting to 14°C. Monsoon is erratic, but it generally rains from June to September.

 

Tourists Attractions

Today Nagarhole Park comprises of Arikeri, Hatgat and Nalkeri reserve forests, along with adjoining Mysore reserve forests. The topography is undulating with several permanent and seasonal streams and tanks. The forest cover generally consists of a moist deciduous thick jungle with a thirty-meter high top. The rich tropical forests, flourishing green swamps and numerous water resources make Nagarhole National Park an ideal habitat for wildlife.

 

The forest is home to animals like the four-horned antelope, sloth bear, jungle cat, civet, spotted deer, elephant, wild dog, flying fox, tiger, panther, gaur (Indian bison), sambhar, wild boar, black-naped hare, bonnet macaque, and pangolin. Cobras, crocodiles, kraits, pythons, vipers, and several species of lizards are also found here.

 

Among the 250 bird species found here, the prominent ones are the common babbler, bee-eater, bulbul, dove, crested serpent, hornbill, Malabar pied, alexandrine, peacock, woodpecker, warbler, great Indian reed, eagle, crested hawk, golden-back parakeet, and the southern tree pie. Nagarhole is worth visiting at the height of the dry season, when wild animals can be spotted in large numbers near sources of water.

 

Vehicles and guides are available to take you around the Nagarhole National Park. If this natural heaven awakens the 'spirit of adventure' in you then consider heading for the Brahmagiri Mountains-an inviting destination for those who wish to go trekking. Prior permission is required from the authorities before embarking on a trekking trail.

 

Places Around Nagarhole

Madikere, a place 93 km from Nagarhole, is a scenic locale famous for its coffee and orange plantations. Madhumallii (also Mudumalai), Wynad and Bandipur National Park lie near Nagarhole forest.

 

How To Reach

Nagarhole National park is well connected to adjoining areas of Karnataka. Motorable highways link the park to the towns of Madikere (90 km) and Mysore (96 km) where state transport buses and taxis are freely available. The journey from both places lasts approximately 2 hours. The nearest well-connected railway junction is Mysore, while the nearest international airport is Bangalore (220 km). Various airlines link Bangalore to the rest of the nation.

 

COAST & WESTERN GHATS.

 

MANGALORE.

 

Mangalore district is a panorama of palm-fringed beaches,lush green fields and enchanting forests. It is sheltered by the soaring western ghats on the east and the mighty Arabian sea roaring along its western shores.With an important port,this coastal town is a major commercial centre.The lifeline of the district, the National Highway No 17 almost runs parallel to the sea for over 95 kms in the district. Nowhere does the distance between the highway and the sea exceed more than a few kilometers.

 

Mangalore,the district headquarters, has a long history of maritime trade. Though developed as a business and commercial centres Mangalore still retains its old world charm-old tile-roofed buildings amidst coconut groves, fishing boats silhouetted against the darkening skyline, fishermen hauling in rich catch of fish,sea food served in spicy coconut curries. Mangalore is a remainder of the good times of life. The district offers a wide range of interesting places for both pilgrimage and pleasure tourists such as Dharmasthala, Subramanya, Kollur, Udupi, Karkala, Venoor and Moodabidri.

 

Mangalore has been an important port on the Arabian coast for centuries.  In the 14^th and 15^th century, it traded with Persian and Arab merchants.  It was a ship building centre during the reigns of Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan.

 

The modern port, 10kms away from the city centre is today India’s 9^th largest cargo handling zone and is the major centre for the export of cashew nuts and coffee.  The completion of a deep-water port in 1976 couples with the influx of large industries including petrochemical and power plants has made this once quite hilly city into a bustling metropolis and one of the fastest growing cities of Southwest India.  However, Mangalore has a nonchalant and relaxing stopover between Goa and Kerala.

 

Getting There:

Air :  All major Domestic airlines flies daily to Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore, which is at a distance of 20 kms away from the city. 

Rail :  The railway station on the southern fringe of the city connects to all major destinations in South India.

Road : Mangalore is well connected by National Highways to Bangalore, Kerala and Goa. 

 

Places of Interest.

 

St. Aloysius Chapel : This century old edifice houses breathtaking paintings and frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings of the chapel. The famous Chapel is situated a kilometer away from the main city - Hampankatta. It was in the year 1880 that the Jesuit order from Rome arrived on the banks of the river Nethravathi. A year later saw the foundation of the St. Aloysius College in a private home in Kodialbail at first and then to the lofty buildings on Light House Hill that presently houses the College. The walls of the Chapel have sprawling paintings of the artist Antony Moshani of Italy. It?s open from 0830-1000 hrs, 1230-1400 and 1530-1800 hrs.

 

Gokarnethwswara Kudroli Temple : Kudroli Gokarnatheshwara Temple at Mangalore is the only Temple in Karnataka set by Shri Narayana Guru, the great Philosopher , saint and social reformer from Kerala. The temple was renovated in the Chola Gopuram style from the Kerala Style in the year 1991 at a cost of Rs. 1 crore with 500 labourers working day and night for one & half years. The main deity of this temple is Shiva ? the Shiva Linga is carved out of Amruthasile meaning ?marble? brought by Shri Narayana Guru from a place called Gokarna where he got it under water. The Navarathri Utsava is a famous annaul festival of this temple. the ninth day which is symbolic with agrand procession of Durga is on the likes of the Mysore Dassara.

 

Shri Mangaladevi Temple : The name Mangalore has originated from the Mangaladevi temple built in memory of a famous princess of Kerala by the same name. The sculpture of Goddess Mangaladevi is perhaps the earliest of the Durga sculpturesin the district, this temple was later rebuilt by one of the Ikkeri Nayaka (Bidanoor). The pious people even today believe that worship of Mangaladevi brings them prosperity and happiness. The Goddess is worshipped as "Shakti" The temple has a special significanec for the maidens. It is believed that maidens who observe Mangala Parvati Vrata will have their wish of having a suitable match fulfilled. Those who celebrate their wedding in this holy place will have a happy married life.

 

Albuquerque Tile Factory : Mangalore is synonymous with its roof tiles, which is very famous in and out of the country. They are known for their quality, utility, and perfect finish. It is also the largest tile factory in the country and their main area of production is building materials. They began exporting tiles and decorative items in the early 1950?s to countries as far as Australia, Malaysia, Ceylon, and East Africa. Presently they export their products mainly to the Middle East Countries.

 

The Souza Cashew Factory : The Souza cashew factory was begun around 15 years ago by the industrious Souza family. Just as Mangalore is synonymous with its roof tiles, so is it with cashew. Situated in Kulshekar, on the Karkala highway, this factory provides employment to 325 people. This unit mainly deals with the processing of cashew nuts. In the process of production, cashew kernels, cashew shells, cashew husk and cashew rejection are obtained. Oil is then produced at the oil mills out of the cashew shells, which are in turn used by the paint industry. It is exported mainly to countries like U.S.A., Germany etc.

 

Thousand Pillar Temple - Moodabidri : A Holy Shrine of the Jains, the thousand pillar temple is dedicated to Shri Chandranath, a Jain Saint. Jains spread all over India travel to this place to offer worship at the several Basadi's dedicated to different Theerthankaras The temple is intricately carved and has architecture that is peculiar to Nepal. There are a total of 18 temples in Moodibidri. The 1000 pillar temple is around 569 years old and was built over a century. The history of the temple is carved on the walls and pillars of the temple. No two pillars in the temple are alike. It has got an elegantly carved wooden cieling and a wooden screen with intricate carvings. The Basadi is a treasure house of art and architecture. No where in Karnataka, a Basadi of so much grandeur and so much magnificence as this could be found.

 

Gomateshwara Statue : Jainism is a religion of renunciation and non violence, which is as old as Buddism. Jainism was founded by Lord Mahaveer around 500 B. C. The statue of Bahubali was sculpted around 400 years ago from a single stone. Bahubali was one of the saints who came before Lord Mahaveera. The statue is 42 feet high and is made out of granite. It was made elsewhere and then transported here. There are 212 steps to climb up to the summit.

 

Pilikula Nisargadhama : Legend has it, that tigers and Dakshina Kannada were synonomous, because the word "Pilikula" when translated means "Pond of tigers in Tulu" situated on the Mangalore - Karkala highway, Pilikula spans over a splendid 100 acres of land.

 

Around Mangalore

Moodabidri: It is a Jain Shrine pilgrimage called "Jain Kashi". Pilgrims from different places and countries come here to worship the Thirthankara in different basadis. It is 35 km from Mangalore. 5 centuries ago a Basadi called "Saavira Sthamba Basadi" was built here. It still appears very magnificent.

 

Service / express busses takes approximately one hour from the service bus stand at Nehru maidan in Mangalore. Costs about Rs. 15-20 depending on the route taken by the bus. Around 35 kilometers from Mangalore to Moodabidri, taxis too will take you there. By taxi it cost about 300 - 350 Rs. for a round trip. Karkala on the other hand is about 50 kilometers from Mangalore and the charges by taxi are about 500-750. Read On

 

Karkala : It is 52 kms northeast. The 452 ft tall monolithic statue of Bahubali and the St. Lawrence Church are the main attractions here.

 

Varanga : Nearby, is an important Jain pilgrim Center 16 kms from Karkala.

 

Kateel Durga Parameshwari Temple : Kateel is located about 5 kilometers from the Bajpe Bus stand. As such going to Bajpe, using the Kavoor- Marakada Route is the most convenient as the road is well maintained since it is also the access route to the Mangalore Airport. Further the winding roads amidst green hills and valleys make it a very pleasant and memorable experience. Once in Bajpe town, take the straight road leading north to go to kateel.

 

Jamalabad: It is 40 kms east. The fort here was built by Tippu Sultan and named after his mother Jamalbee.

 

Udupi : 60 kms north, this town has the famous Krishna Temple with the Golden Chariot. It is here that the saint Madhwacharya lived and preached 700 years ago. The famous Masala Dosa has its origin here. Now, it is the district head quarters of the newly formed Udupi District.

 

Polali: About 34 Km from Mangalore an ancient Temple dedicated to the Goddess Rajarajeshwari is situated, with an image of 12ft height, worshiped with the idols of Badra Kali, Shanmuga with Ganapathi, on either side. Every year a car festival lasting for a month is held and it is called as polali chendu. During the period of polali chendu, a football tournament is held as an important event of the festival.

 

Mulki Temples: In the north direction of Mangalore on the N.H 17 highway road at a distance of 28 Km, on the riverbank of Shambavi is situated a famous temple of Shri Venkatramana. The temple belongs to 1277 A.D. In the temple the images of Venkatramana, Bindu Madhava, Vittala and Ugra Narasimha are worshiped. The history of the place indicates that Shri Vijayendra Yathi of Kashimutt installed the image of Ugra Narasimha belonging to Vijayanagar here in 1565. Mulki was earlier known as Mulikapur. In course of time Mulikapur changed to Mulki. Samantha kings who had donated "Inams" to this temple ruled this place. Now one can see the palace and the old ruins of the fort of Samantha Kings. The Bappanadu Durga Parameshwari Temple and twin temple of Somanath and Narayana are the other shrines of the Mulki. A buffalo race called "Arasu Kambala" also annually held here.

 

Dharmasthala: On the bank of the River Nethravathi at about 74 km from Mangalore and at a distance of 3 km from the bank, the Holy Place Dharmasthala is situated. With green vegetation and the hills environment with the river flow creates a calm serenity to the visitors. It is a pilgrimage to Hindus where the charity is the most predominant. The speciality of the temple is that the Lord Shiva is worshipped by Shivites called deity called "Manjunatha" and the priests are Madhwa Vaishnavas. A Jain family called the Heggade according manages the place. Food is served free here to the visitors. The management also extends the lodging facility to the visitors as service.

 

Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade is the present Dharmadhikari, who is responsible for the installation of a Monolithic statue of Gommata sculptured at Karkala by Renjal Shenoy, a great sculpture, on a near by hill near to the temple. The name Dharmasthala was given by a Yathi Shri Vadiraja Swami of Udupi Sodemutt. A museum, Car Museum, Lalithodyana, an Aquarium park, yakshagana training center are the main attractions here.

 

Subramanya: A well-famed temple, inside the dense forest bordering the Western Ghats, is situated and is called Subramanya. The original name was Kukke as "Kukke" or basket by the priest of the temple had covered the Kukkelinga. Now this linga is inside the inner courtyard of the Subramanya Temple. The temple cart is nearly 150 years old. On the bank of river Kumaradhara a small shrine of Subramanya called "Mooladevaru" is also situated. It is a sacred pilgrimage to Hindus.

 

Venur: 45 km from Mangalore a monolithic statue of Gommata 38 ft. height is situated. The place is called Venur. Veera Thimmappa Ajila 4 installed this Gommata in 1064 A.D. There are also a few Jain basadis.

 

Malpe Beach : It is 66 kms north of Mangalore. The pristine beauty complemented by peaceful surroundings, make this beach a favorite holiday spot. The St. Mary’s Island, another delightful holiday hangout, is just a boat ride away.

 

Maravanthe : It is 110 kms north of Mangalore and has a scenic beach.

 

Baindur : Is a hamlet, 45 kms from Maravanthe. It has a beautiful beach nearby. Ottanane near Baindur is famous for its glorious sunset.

 

Kollur : Is 140 kms north. The famous Mookambika Temple here attracts thousands of devotees.

 

CHIKMAGALUR

 

This small town is at the centre of one of India’s major Coffee growing areas.  Chikmagalur literally means ‘younger daughter’s town’ as it was the legendry dowry for the daughter of a local chieftain.  In addition to the Hoysala style Kondandarama Temple, there are mosques, a Roman Catholic Cathedral and a Fort accessed over a moat.

 

Between Chikmagalur and Shimoga based around the huge Bhadra reservoir is the 425 sq km Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.  Most of the park is a mixture of dense moist and dry deciduous forest with plenty of bamboo and teak.  Wildlife here includes elephant, panthers, wild boars, striped hyenas, flying squirrels and a variety of birds.

 

The best time to visit is between October and May.

 

EXCURSION:

 

Kemmanagundi : (54 km) An ideal retreat of solitude and natural beauty, located in Baba-Budam range. Placed at a height of 4,702 ft. above sea level, Kemmanagundi has a bracing climate, mineral-enriched water and a tranquil verdant mountains cape. The two waterfalls Kalahasti and Hebbe are ideal picnic spots. Bababudan Mountains, 30 km from Kemmanagundi, are the loftiest range of hills with a stupendous ridge. The Dattatreya Peetha here is a well Known pilgrimage shrine both for the Hindus and the Muslims.

 

 

Sringeri : (98 km) This well-known pilgrim centre is situated on the banks of Tunga  river. Adishankara, exponent of the Advaita philosophy had founded this monastery.The chief attraction being the 12 zodiac pillars in the Vidya Shankara temple, which are so arranged that the Sun's rays fall on the particular pillar corresponding to the month.

 

Kudremukh : 95 kms south-west of Chilmagalur is the secluded hill station of Kudremukh. Situated 1894 mabove sea level, the Kudremukh hills overlook the Arabian Sea and are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. There is rich flora and fauna here, waiting to be discovered. Caves asking to be explored. Ruins and traces of old civilization inviting a study. Lonely, unspoilt places to camp can any trekker resist Kudremukh. This place is also rich in iron-ore deposits.

 

KARWAR.

Karwar is 520 kms west of Bangalore. Karwar has one of the most beautiful beaches in the country which is said to have  inspired Tagore to pen his first drama. The drive of 160 km from Hubli takes one through hills first and valleys covered with dense tropical jungles and plenty of wildlife. The Kalindi river flows through the town into Arabian Sea. Motor launches are availale for boating up to the Kali river. Karwar is also known for its fine muslin. The muslin industry was started in 1638 by Sir Willam Counten who had opened a factory here.

 

You can make boat trips up the spectacular Kali Nadi from the bridge three km north of town. A stroll to the bridge to witness the sunset and the spectacular shades of light in the surrounding Ghats is about as exciting as the local entertainment get.

 

EXCURSIONS:

 

Gokarna : 60 kms south, is of Karwar, this coastal town has, among other things, an ancient temple with the Atmalinga. Gokarna is also a famous center for Sanskrit learning. The Om Beach and the Kutle Beach nearby, are also worth a visit.

 

Bhatkal : 135 kms south, is a historical township. The ancient port town has temples of vijayangar times and many interesting Jain monuments. 16 kms away is the scenic holy place of Murdeshwar. The temple here attracts a lot of devotees and tourists. The Pigeon Island is off the Nurdeshwar coast. The beaches at Goanna, Bhatakal and Murdeshwar are undiscovered and thankfully unspoilt.

 

Banvasi : 140 kms from Karwar, is a temple town mentioned in the Hindu epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

 

Shivganga Falls : 140 kms away, amidst scenic surrounding, the river Souda falls into a deep valley from a height of 74 m to from the falls.

 

Dandeli : 93 kms from Karwar, is a popular holiday resort. The wildlife sanctuary here abounds with a variety of rare animals. The cave with shivalinga-like laterite formations is also well worth a visit.

 

Magod Falls : A few kms from Karwar, is a scenic delight. The Bedti river plunges into a 180 m rocky valley in two leaps.

 

 

CENTRAL KARNATAKA

 

HAMPI:

Hampi, are one of the most fascinating historical sites in south India. The superb ruins are set in a strange and beautiful boulderstrewn  landscape which has an almost magical quality. Hampi has become a thriving travelers center and most people stay at least a couple of days to soak up the atmosphere and explore the area. If you're in a hurry, you can see the main sites in one day, either by bicycle or on foot. Signposting in some parts of the site is inadequate, but you can't really get lost. It's not wise to wander around the ruins alone at dawn or dusk, since occasional muggings occur. There are two points of entry to the ruins. Hampi Bazaar and the small village of Kamalapuram to the south. Most people prefer to start in Hampi Bazaar and walk of cycle to the main sites and then visit the museum at Kamalapuram. From Kamalapuram there are buses back to Hampi Bazaar (and to Hospet), or you can walk back along the road to Hampi Bazaar in about 40 minutes. There are restaurants in Hampi Bazaar and Kamalapuram, as well as a few soft drink and snack vendors at key monuments.

 

Hampi is the world’s largest open-air museum. Hampi was the capital city of the powerful South Indian Vijayanagar Empire. Founded by Harihara and

Bukka in 1336, it fell to the Muslim rulers of North India in 1565 after the disastrous Battle of Talikota and subsequently lapsed into decline and abandonment. The once-proud city of victory is now a city of desolation. However, the ruins of these

historical monuments have stood the ravages of man and time and still evoke memories of the grandeur of a bygone era.

 

Places of Interest :

 

Virupaksha Temple : The 15th-century Virupaksha Temple is located in the Hampi Bazaar area. It is one of the oldest monuments of the town. The top of the temple rises about 50 m from the ground and the main shrine is dedicated to Virupaksha, a form of Lord Shiva.

 

The Virupaksha is also called the Pampapati. While the construction belongs to the later Vijayanagar period, there are many shrines inside the temple that are much older. At the eastern end, there is the large Nandi in stone; on the southern side is the larger-than-life Ganesha. Large single stone carvings seem to have been the fashion of the day in Hampi, for there is a large image of Narasimha (6.7 m high), the half-lion half-man incarnation of God, as well as a huge linga. This phallic symbol now has its base in water.

 

Vittal Temple : Two kilometres east of Hampi Bazaar, the traveller can see the Vittal Temple, built in the 16th century, and now a World Heritage monument. The carvings on this temple give an insight into the architectural splendour achieved by the artisans of Vijayanagar Empire. In the Vittal Temple, the columns are so balanced that they have a musical quality.