Located on the banks of River Tunga, Shimoga, or Shivamogga, in Karnataka attracts travellers with its mesmerising waterfalls, verdant hills, age-old temples, lush forests, incredible wildlife, museums, and more. The word Shimoga means the face of Lord Shiva. The temple town is blessed with rich heritage and culture, and untouched scenic beauty. By Karan Kaushik
Also known as the gateway to Malnad, the city makes for a refreshing and offbeat trip to the hills. Here’s how to make the most of your trip to Shimoga.
Must-visit places in Shimoga
Jog Falls
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A trip to Shimoga gives you the wonderful opportunity to explore the magnificent Jog Falls. Also called Jogada Gundi or Gersoppa Falls, Jog Falls is India’s second-highest plunge waterfall. Encompassed by lush greenery, the waterfalls personify bliss. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, the falls get their water from the Sharavathi River. The four cascades of the waterfall are interestingly named Raja, Rani, Rocket, and Rover.
Trek to Kodachadri Hills
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Lovers of the great outdoors must try and embark on the trek to Kodachadri Hills, one of the must-visit places in Shimoga. A part of the Western Ghats, the Kodachadri Hill is the 10th-highest peak in Karnataka. A trek to the hilltop takes you through enchanting waterfalls, lush meadows, and rolling hills. The place enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year and offers incredible sunrises and sunsets.
Honnemaradu
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Sequestered along the backwaters of River Sharavathi, Honnemaradu is popular among adventure enthusiasts. When here, you can indulge in a range of thrilling activities like kayaking, canoeing, hiking, swimming, camping, and other water sports. Honnemaradu is also famous among avid birdwatchers, who come here for their love for nature and photography. The word Honnemaradu has been taken from the name of a native tree called Honne, which stands for Golden Lake.
Keladi
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If history and architecture excite you, head out to the temple town of Keladi. The prime attraction here is the 12th-century Rameshwara Temple. A fine specimen of the Hoysala and Dravidian styles of architecture, the temple boasts imposing carvings and ornamental pillars. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built from soapstone, the temple is a monument of national importance and is looked after by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Kundadri
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Another popular hill around Shimoga is Kundadri Hill. Famous for the Jain Temple of Parshwanath, the temple is located amidst the thick forests of the Western Ghats. The 17th-century temple is dedicated to the 23rd tirthankara of Jains Lord Parshwanath. It is believed that the revered Jain sage Kundakunda Acharya had spent some time at this spot thousands of years ago.
Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary
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Wildlife lovers can’t miss a safari in the jungles of the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best places to spend time in Shimoga. Home to animals like sloth bears, elephants, jackals, spotted deer, langur, leopards, and the majestic tiger, the sanctuary is one of the most unexplored wildlife havens in India. There are two separate lion and tiger safaris available at Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
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Located on the Tunga River, the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary attracts birdwatching enthusiasts from all corners of India. The pristine island is 30km from Shimoga and attracts migratory birds. Commonly-spotted species here include little cormorants, snakebirds, darters, and median egrets. You may also club your visit with the Gajanur Dam and Sakrebyle Elephant Training Camp.
Sacred Heart Church
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Renowned as the second-largest church in India, the Sacred Heart Church in Shimoga sprawls across an area of 18000 sq ft. The church was established in 1988 and stands as a specimen of the Roman and Gothic styles of architecture. The pièce de résistance here is the large statue of Jesus Christ at the church.
Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum
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If you want to delve deep into the rich history and culture of Shimoga, do visit the museum at the Shivappa Nayaka Palace. Named after the 17th-century Keladi Nayaka ruler Shivappa Nayaka, the museum is housed inside a palatial bungalow that dates to the 18th century. On display here are antiquities like Hindu and Jain sculptures, inscriptions, and hero stones.
Malgudi Museum
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Relive your childhood nostalgia by paying a visit to the Malgudi Museum at Shimoga’s Arasalu Railway Station. Showcased here are relics, paintings, photographs, artefacts, and informative panels about the Malgudi Days team. The iconic show was shot in Shimoga and this museum is a tribute to the great story by R.K. Narayan. The main highlight of the museum is the statues of Swami, Rajam, and Mani.
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