Located
on the banks of Tunga River, the fertile land of Shimoga had been a
coveted booty for most of the great kingdoms of Karnataka. The name of
the city is derived from the term Shiva-Mukha, meaning Face of Shiva.
Throughout its history Shimoga had played host to most of the great
kingdoms of South India including the Kadambas (4th century),
Rashtrakutas (8th century), Kalyani Chalukyas (9th century), Hoysalas
(11th century) and the Vijayanagara rulers (15th century). Shimoga rose to prominence during the patronage of the Kalyani Chalukyas who overthrew the Rashtrakutas. When the Kalyani Chalukyas faded into oblivion, the Hoysalas annexed this area. After overpowering the Vijayanagar Empire in the battle of Tallikota, the native Keladi Nayakas ruled as an independent kingdom for about two centuries until they were finally absorbed into the Kingdom of Mysore.
Due to the copious agriculture production, Shimoga is known by the sobriquet 'the rice bowl of Karnataka.' The meandering streams originating from the Western Ghats and the numerous lakes, ponds and water bodies make the Shimoga land very suitable for agriculture.
Shimoga Excursions
The Jog falls is created by the Sharavati river tumbling down from a height of 829ft. (253m) in four distinct cascades - known locally as Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket. Regarded the highest waterfall in Asia, Jog falls is one of the major tourist attractions in Karnataka.
How to Reach Shimoga
Shimoga city is the administrative headquarters of the district. Located at a distance of about 276 km from Bangalore, it is easily accessible by all the modes of transport. While traveling to Shimoga by rail or road is the most preferable route, tourist can also take a flight. With the completion of the construction of Shimoga Airport, the city of Shimoga would be all the more accessible.
Jog Falls
The grandest among Karnataka waterfalls, Jog falls is created by the Sharavati River tumbling down from a height of 829ft. (253m) in four distinct cascades - known locally as Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket. Regarded the highest waterfall in Asia, Jog falls is one of the major tourist attractions in Karnataka.
Tourist Attractions
Also known as Dakshina Kedara, Ballegavi was the capital of Banawasi rulers in the 12th century. Abode of several eminent Veershaiva saints like Allama prabhu, Akka-Mahadevi, Animishayya and Ekantada Ramayya, Ballegavi has a number of prominent temples. The Kedareshwara temple hewn out of soapstone is a fine example of Chalukyan temple architecture.
Things to Do in Shimoga
Situated on the banks of Tunga River in the central region of Karnataka, Shimoga is one of the most picturesque cities in Karnataka. It is located at a distance of 274 Km from the Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. The city of Shimoga offers tourists a number of options, when it comes to indulging in fun activities.
Shimoga Weather
During summers, the hot, seasonally dry tropical weather of Shimoga takes a toll on the people. The summer months of April and May are hot and the onset of monsoon in June results in a slight drop in temperatures. The monsoon season from June to September results in heavy downpours.
