Places To Visit in Shimoga to Explore Waterfalls to Wildlife

Looking for a destination that’s surrounded by lush greenery and offers a perfect blend of history and nature? Look no further than Shimoga! Experience the best of tourism at its top sights, from ancient temples to picturesque waterfalls. Discover Shimoga’s treasures and book your trip today.

About Shimoga

Shimoga, also known as Shivamogga, is a city located in the central part of the Indian state of Karnataka. The city is situated on the banks of the Tunga River and is surrounded by lush green forests and hills. The history of Shimoga dates back to the ancient times when it was ruled by various dynasties such as the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas, and the Vijayanagara Empire. During the colonial period, Shimoga was under the rule of the British East India Company, and after India gained independence, it became a part of the state of Mysore, which later became Karnataka. Today, Shimoga is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors with its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage.

Architecture of Shimoga

Shimoga is a city located in the state of Karnataka, India. The city has a rich history and culture, which is reflected in its architecture. The architecture of Shimoga is a blend of various styles, including traditional Indian architecture and modern architectural styles.

One of the most prominent examples of traditional architecture in Shimoga is the Gajanur Dam, which was built in the early 20th century. The dam is a popular tourist destination and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.

Other notable examples of traditional architecture in Shimoga include the Kote Anjaneya Temple, which is known for its ornate carvings and intricate details, and the Sacred Heart Church, which is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.

In recent years, modern architecture has also made its mark in Shimoga. The city boasts several modern buildings and structures, including the Shimoga Institute of Medical Sciences, which is a state-of-the-art medical facility, and the Shimoga Airport, which is a modern and efficient airport that connects the city to other parts of the country.

41 Places To Visit in Shimoga

1. Jog Falls: Located about 100 km from Shimoga, Jog Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and a popular tourist spot.
2. Koodli: Koodli is an ancient village located on the banks of the Tunga and Bhadra rivers. It is known for its rich history and beautiful temples.
3. Agumbe: Agumbe is a small village located in the Western Ghats, known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and biodiversity.
4. Gajanur Dam: Gajanur Dam is a popular picnic spot located on the banks of the Tunga River, about 15 km from Shimoga.
5. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary: Located about 30 km from Shimoga, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers, with over 300 species of birds found here.
6. Kuppalli: Kuppalli is the birthplace of the famous Kannada poet Kuvempu. It is a beautiful village located in the Western Ghats.
7. Sakrebailu Elephant Camp: Sakrebailu Elephant Camp is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Located about 14 km from Shimoga, the camp allows visitors to interact with elephants.
8. Kavaledurga Fort: Kavaledurga Fort is a hill fort located about 18 km from Thirthahalli. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
9. Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari: Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari is a popular tourist destination located about 10 km from Shimoga. Visitors can take a jeep safari and see lions and tigers up close.
10. Tunga Anicut Dam: Tunga Anicut Dam is a popular picnic spot located on the banks of the Tunga River. The dam is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful getaway from the city.
11. Mandagadde Natural Bird Sanctuary: Mandagadde Natural Bird Sanctuary is located on the banks of the Tunga River. It is home to a variety of birds, including the rare and endangered long-billed vulture.
12. Keladi: Keladi is a historical village located on the banks of the Sharavathi River. It is known for its beautiful temples and rich history.
13. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.
14. Honnemaradu: Honnemaradu is a beautiful village located on the banks of the Sharavathi River. It is known for its water sports and adventure activities.
15. Koodalasangama: Koodalasangama is a historical town located at the confluence of the Krishna and Malaprabha rivers. It is a popular pilgrimage site for the Lingayat community.
16. Bhadravathi: Bhadravathi is an industrial town located about 20 km from Shimoga. It is known for its iron and steel industries.
17. Lion Safari Park: Lion Safari Park is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. Visitors can take a safari and see lions up close.
18. Sri Sigandur Chaudamma Temple: Sri Sigandur Chaudamma Temple is a popular temple located on the banks of the Sharavathi River. It is a popular pilgrimage site for the locals.
19. Kundadri Hill: Kundadri Hill is a beautiful hill located about 20 km from Shimoga. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
20. Kodachadri: Kodachadri is a beautiful mountain peak in Shimoga.
21. Onake Abbi Falls
22. Sringeri
23. Bhadravathi
24. Kalasa
25. Bandalike Balancing Rock
26. Kodangala
27. Tunga Dam
28. Humcha
29. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
30. Shettihalli Rosary Church
31. Kavaledurga Trek
32. Mandagadde Trek
33. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
34. Tunga Anicut Dam
35. Kavishaila
36. Kudli Bhagavathi Temple
37. Sigandur
38. Sri Rameshwara Temple
39. Honnemaradu
40. Agastya Lake
41. Sigandooru.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Shimoga

Shimoga experiences a tropical climate, with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit Shimoga is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 15°C and 30°C. The monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to visit as the region receives good rainfall, making the waterfalls and natural scenery more spectacular. However, heavy rain can sometimes cause flooding and landslides, so it is important to check the weather forecast before planning a trip during the monsoon season. The summer months from April to May can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 38°C.

How To Reach Shimoga

Shimoga is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. Here are some ways to reach Shimoga:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Shimoga is Mangalore International Airport, which is approximately 190 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Shimoga.
2. By Train: Shimoga has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in Karnataka and other parts of India. Some of the popular trains that run to Shimoga are the Matsyagandha Express, Karwar Express, and Sharavati Express.
3. By Bus: There are regular buses that run from Bangalore, Mangalore, Hubli, and other nearby cities to Shimoga. The KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) operates a fleet of buses that connect Shimoga to various parts of the state.
4. By Car: If you are traveling from Bangalore, you can take NH 75 to reach Shimoga. The distance between Bangalore and Shimoga is approximately 280 km, and the journey takes around 6-7 hours.

I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any more questions.

Accommodation Options in Shimoga

Shimoga offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

1. Hotels: Shimoga has a variety of hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular hotels in Shimoga are the Royal Orchid Central, Green View Clarks Inn, and Jewel Rock Hotel.
2. Resorts: If you are looking for a relaxing getaway, there are several resorts in Shimoga that offer comfortable accommodation and a range of facilities. Some popular resorts in Shimoga are the Jog Falls Resort, River Tern Lodge, and The Gateway Hotel.
3. Homestays: For a more authentic experience, you can opt for a homestay in Shimoga. There are several homestays in and around Shimoga that offer comfortable accommodation, home-cooked meals, and an opportunity to experience the local culture.
4. Guesthouses: If you are traveling on a budget, you can consider staying at a guesthouse in Shimoga. These guesthouses offer basic amenities and are a good option for backpackers and solo travelers.
5. Camping: For a unique experience, you can also consider camping in Shimoga. There are several camping sites in and around Shimoga that offer tent accommodation and a range of outdoor activities.

I hope this information helps you choose the right accommodation option for your trip to Shimoga!

Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Shimoga As per Users Reviews

Here’s a brief on the top 10 hotels to stay in Shimoga as per user reviews and ratings:

1. Royal Orchid Central: This is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Shimoga, offering comfortable rooms, excellent service, and a range of facilities such as a rooftop swimming pool, gym, and spa. Users have rated this hotel highly for its location, cleanliness, and helpful staff.
2. Green View Clarks Inn: This hotel is located near the Tunga River and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Users have rated this hotel highly for its location, cleanliness, and value for money.
3. Jewel Rock Hotel: This is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Shimoga railway station, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Users have rated this hotel highly for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and location.
4. Royal Orchid Central Akota: This hotel is located near the Shimoga bus stand and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a range of facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, and spa. Users have rated this hotel highly for its location, cleanliness, and helpful staff.
5. Akash Inn: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Shimoga and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Users have rated this hotel highly for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and value for money.
6. Sri Durga International: This hotel is located near the Shimoga railway station and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Users have rated this hotel highly for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and location.
7. Sagar Residency: This is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Shimoga bus stand, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Users have rated this hotel highly for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and value for money.
8. Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa: This hotel is located near the Jog Falls and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Users have rated this hotel highly for its location, cleanliness, and helpful staff.
9. Royal Orchid Resort & Convention Centre: This is a luxurious resort located near the Tunga River, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a range of facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, and spa. Users have rated this resort highly for its location, cleanliness, and excellent service.
10. Sri Krishna Residency: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Shimoga and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Users have rated this hotel highly for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and value for money.

I hope this brief overview helps you in choosing the right hotel for your stay in Shimoga.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Shimoga

Sure, here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Shimoga:

1. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Shimoga is between October to March when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon is over.
2. Clothing: As Shimoga is a religious and cultural hub, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious places.
3. Local Transport: The local transport in Shimoga includes buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Make sure to negotiate the fare before you board any of these modes of transport.
4. Food: Shimoga is known for its cuisine, which includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Make sure to try the local delicacies such as Akki rotti, Ragi mudde, and Fish curry.
5. Places to visit: Shimoga is a beautiful destination with several places to visit such as Jog Falls, Gajanur Dam, Kodachadri Hill, and Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary.
6. Safety: Shimoga is a relatively safe city, but it is advisable to be cautious and keep your belongings safe while traveling.
7. Language: Kannada is the primary language spoken in Shimoga, but most people understand and speak Hindi and English as well.
8. Cash and ATMs: It is advisable to carry cash as there are limited ATMs in Shimoga.
9. Climate: Shimoga experiences a tropical climate with high humidity, so make sure to carry light cotton clothes and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

I hope these tips help you plan your trip to Shimoga and have a safe and enjoyable experience!

Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Shimoga

Sure, here are some travel mistakes to avoid when visiting Shimoga:

1. Not carrying enough cash: It is advisable to carry enough cash as there are limited ATMs in Shimoga, and some places may not accept credit cards or digital payments.
2. Not carrying appropriate clothing: As Shimoga is a religious and cultural hub, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious places. It is also important to carry light cotton clothes as Shimoga experiences a tropical climate with high humidity.
3. Not researching the local culture: It is important to research the local culture and customs before visiting Shimoga. This will help you understand the dos and don’ts and respect the local culture.
4. Not planning your itinerary: Shimoga has several places to visit, and it is important to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your trip. This will help you save time and avoid missing out on any of the popular tourist attractions.
5. Not negotiating the fare with local transport: When using local transport like taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses, it is important to negotiate the fare in advance to avoid any misunderstandings or overcharging.
6. Not tasting the local cuisine: Shimoga is known for its cuisine, and it is important to try the local delicacies like Akki rotti, Ragi mudde, and Fish curry.
7. Not carrying a map or GPS: Shimoga is a relatively small city, but it is easy to get lost without a map or GPS. It is advisable to carry a map or use GPS to navigate your way around the city.
8. Not keeping your belongings safe: Shimoga is a safe city, but it is important to be cautious and keep your belongings safe while traveling. It is advisable to carry your valuables with you and not leave them unattended.

I hope these travel mistakes to avoid will help you plan a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Shimoga.

Best Places for Shopping in Shimoga

Shimoga is known for its traditional handicrafts and textiles. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Shimoga:

1. Gandhi Bazaar: Gandhi Bazaar is a popular shopping destination in Shimoga, known for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. The bazaar is also known for its fresh fruits and vegetables.
2. City Central Mall: City Central Mall is a modern shopping mall in Shimoga, known for its branded clothing, accessories, and electronics.
3. Shivamall: Shivamall is a popular shopping center in Shimoga, known for its traditional silk sarees, salwar suits, and dress materials. The mall also has a range of jewelry and footwear stores.
4. Kallappa Textiles: Kallappa Textiles is a popular textile store in Shimoga, known for its traditional silk sarees, cotton sarees, and dress materials.
5. Rajesh Textiles: Rajesh Textiles is a popular store in Shimoga, known for its traditional sarees, dress materials, and textiles.
6. Spandana Handicrafts: Spandana Handicrafts is a popular store in Shimoga, known for its traditional handicrafts like wooden toys, bamboo handicrafts, and pottery.
7. Sanjeevini Handicrafts: Sanjeevini Handicrafts is a popular store in Shimoga, known for its traditional handicrafts like wooden carvings, brassware, and paintings.

These are some of the best places for shopping in Shimoga, where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and other local products.

Food To Eat in Shimoga

Shimoga is known for its delicious cuisine that includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Here are some of the must-try foods in Shimoga:

1. Akki Rotti: Akki Rotti is a popular breakfast dish in Shimoga made with rice flour and mixed with vegetables and spices.
2. Ragi Mudde: Ragi Mudde is a traditional dish in Shimoga made with finger millet flour and is usually eaten with sambar or chicken curry.
3. Fish Curry: Shimoga is located near the coast, so it is not surprising that fish curry is a popular dish in the region. The curry is usually made with coconut milk and a blend of spices.
4. Bisi Bele Bath: Bisi Bele Bath is a popular rice dish in Shimoga made with lentils, vegetables, and spices. It is usually served with a dollop of ghee and papad.
5. Jolada Rotti: Jolada Rotti is a traditional dish in Shimoga made with jowar flour and is usually eaten with brinjal curry or sambar.
6. Pandi Curry: Pandi Curry is a popular pork curry in Shimoga made with a blend of spices and is usually eaten with Akki Rotti.
7. Holige: Holige is a sweet dish in Shimoga made with jaggery and coconut filling wrapped in a dough made of wheat or maida.

These are some of the must-try foods in Shimoga, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Things You Can Buy as a Tourist

Shimoga is famous for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and food products. Here are some things you should buy as a tourist in Shimoga:

1. Arecanut: Arecanut is one of the main crops grown in Shimoga, and it is known for its high quality and taste. You can buy fresh arecanut or its products like supari, betel leaves, and pan masala.
2. Silk Sarees: Shimoga is known for its traditional silk sarees like Ilkal sarees and Kanjeevaram sarees. These sarees are made with pure silk and come in a range of colors and designs.
3. Handicrafts: Shimoga is home to several traditional handicrafts like wooden toys, bamboo handicrafts, and pottery. You can buy these handicrafts as souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones.
4. Spices: Shimoga is known for its aromatic and flavorful spices like pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon. You can buy these spices in the local markets or spice stores.
5. Sandalwood Products: Shimoga is famous for its sandalwood, and you can buy sandalwood products like incense sticks, soap, and oil.
6. Honey: Shimoga is home to several honey farms, and you can buy natural and organic honey from these farms.

These are some of the things you can buy as a tourist in Shimoga. Don’t forget to bargain when shopping in local markets. As mentioned earlier, Shimoga is famous for its handicrafts, and here are some of the popular handicrafts you can find in the region:

1. Wooden Toys: Wooden toys are a popular handicraft in Shimoga and are made with eco-friendly materials like teak wood and rosewood.
2. Bamboo Handicrafts: Shimoga is known for its bamboo handicrafts like baskets, trays, and furniture.
3. Pottery: Shimoga is home to several pottery villages, and you can find pottery products like vases, plates, and bowls.
4. Brassware: Brassware is a popular handicraft in Shimoga, and you can find items like lamps, statues, and wall hangings.

These are some of the traditional handicrafts of Shimoga, which are worth buying as souvenirs or gifts.

Nightlife in Shimoga

Shimoga is a relatively quiet town, and the nightlife scene is not as vibrant as other cities. However, there are a few places where you can enjoy a drink or two in the evening. Here are some of the best places for nightlife in Shimoga:

1. Hotel Jewel Rock: Hotel Jewel Rock is a popular bar in Shimoga, known for its selection of cocktails and mocktails. The bar has a relaxing ambiance and is perfect for a casual evening out with friends.
2. Citi Bar: Citi Bar is another popular bar in Shimoga, located near the bus stand. The bar serves a range of drinks and snacks, and the ambiance is lively.
3. Kava Lounge: Kava Lounge is a cozy lounge located in Hotel Green View. The lounge serves a range of drinks, including cocktails and mocktails, and is perfect for a relaxing evening.
4. Sathwik Bar and Restaurant: Sathwik Bar and Restaurant is a popular place for locals to hang out in the evenings. The bar serves a range of drinks, including beer, and the restaurant offers a variety of dishes.
5. Shimoga Club: Shimoga Club is a members-only club located in the heart of the city. The club has a bar, restaurant, and recreational facilities like a swimming pool and a gym.

These are some of the places where you can enjoy nightlife in Shimoga. Do keep in mind that the legal drinking age in India is 21, and it is mandatory to carry a valid photo ID proof to enter bars and clubs.

Activities and Things to Do in Shimoga

Shimoga is a picturesque town located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, and there are several activities and things to do that can make your trip memorable. Here are some of the popular activities and things to do in Shimoga:

1. Visit Jog Falls: Jog Falls is one of the most popular attractions in Shimoga and is one of the highest waterfalls in India. The view of the waterfall is stunning, and there are several viewpoints from where you can enjoy the view.
2. Trekking: Shimoga is known for its scenic trekking trails, and there are several options for trekkers of different skill levels. Some of the popular trekking trails in Shimoga are Kodachadri, Kudremukh, and Tirthahalli.
3. Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries: Shimoga is home to several wildlife sanctuaries like Gudavi Bird Sanctuary, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. These sanctuaries are home to several species of birds, animals, and plants, and are perfect for nature lovers.
4. Explore Historical Places: Shimoga has a rich history, and there are several historical places you can visit like the Keladi Museum, the Shivappa Nayaka Palace, and the Ikkeri Fort.
5. Enjoy Water Sports: Shimoga is located near several rivers and water bodies, and there are several water sports activities you can enjoy like kayaking, canoeing, and white water rafting.
6. Visit Temples: Shimoga has several temples that are worth visiting like the Kodachadri Temple, the Koodli Temple, and the Sharavathi Temple.

These are some of the popular activities and things to do in Shimoga. The town is also famous for its coffee plantations and waterfalls, so do take some time to explore these attractions as well.

Lesser Known Facts About Shimoga

Shimoga is a beautiful town located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka and is known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and coffee plantations. Here are some lesser-known facts about Shimoga:

1. Shimoga is also known as ‘Gateway of Malnad’ as it is the entry point to the Malnad region of Karnataka.
2. The name ‘Shimoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Shivamogga’, which means ‘the face of Lord Shiva’.
3. Shimoga is home to the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, which is the only bird sanctuary in India that is located on an island.
4. Shimoga is the birthplace of the famous Kannada poet Kuvempu. The Kavishaila memorial, dedicated to Kuvempu, is a popular tourist attraction in Shimoga.
5. The Gudavi Bird Sanctuary in Shimoga is home to several migratory birds like the Siberian Crane and the Grey Pelican.
6. Shimoga is famous for its handicrafts like the ‘Kasuti’ embroidery and ‘Ilkal’ sarees.
7. The Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary in Shimoga is home to several endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque and the black panther.
8. The Shimoga district is the largest producer of arecanut in India.
9. Shimoga is home to several waterfalls like Jog Falls, Barkana Falls, and Kunchikal Falls, which are some of the highest waterfalls in India.
10. The ancient temple town of Sigandur, located near Shimoga, is only accessible by boat as it is located on an island in the backwaters of the Sharavathi River.

These are some of the lesser-known facts about Shimoga, which make it a unique and interesting place to visit.

FAQ About Shimoga

Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about Shimoga, along with their answers:

Q: What is Shimoga famous for?

A: Shimoga is famous for its natural beauty, waterfalls, coffee plantations, trekking trails, and wildlife sanctuaries.

Q: How far is Shimoga from Bangalore?

A: Shimoga is approximately 280 km away from Bangalore, and it takes around 6 hours to reach Shimoga by road.

Q: What is the best time to visit Shimoga?

A: The best time to visit Shimoga is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool.

Q: What are the popular tourist attractions in Shimoga?

A: Some of the popular tourist attractions in Shimoga are Jog Falls, Kodachadri Hill, Gudavi Bird Sanctuary, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, and Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary.

Q: What are the adventure activities one can do in Shimoga?

A: Some of the adventure activities one can do in Shimoga are trekking, camping, white water rafting, kayaking, and canoeing.

Q: What are the famous food items in Shimoga?

A: Some of the famous food items in Shimoga are Akki Roti, Jolada Roti, Kesari Bath, Mysore Pak, and Filter Coffee.

Q: What are the popular festivals celebrated in Shimoga?

A: Some of the popular festivals celebrated in Shimoga are Ugadi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Diwali, and Dussehra.

Q: What are the accommodation options available in Shimoga?

A: Shimoga offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, homestays, and guesthouses.

Q: How can one reach Shimoga?

A: Shimoga is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, and the nearest railway station is Shimoga Town Railway Station.

Q: What are the famous handicrafts of Shimoga?

A: The famous handicrafts of Shimoga are Kasuti embroidery, Ilkal sarees, and wooden toys.