Karnataka Tourism Place,Mangalore

Mangalore

Ensconced on the coast, this maritime city makes a pleasant and convenient stop between Goa and Kerala. With its narrow, winding streets fringed with coconut palms, quaint houses with terracotta-tiled roofs, beautiful beaches, temples and churches, and the aroma of spicy coconut curries, it has preserved its old-world charm. Mangalore was a major seaport and ship-building centre in Hyder Ali's time. Today it is a business and commercial centre and Karnataka's major port for the export of coffee, spices and cashew.

The Someshwar Temple overlooking a rocky promontory, the ancient 10th century Mangala Devi Temple dedicated to the Goddess Mangala Devi, and the 11th century Kadri Manjunatha Temple with its exquisite bronze images of Lokeshwara co-exist with splendid churches and mosques. Among the more remarkable mosques are the Jumma Masjid in Bunder, built centuries ago by the Arabs, and the Idgah Mosque at Lighthouse Hill whose construction is attributed to Tipu Sultan at the end of the 18th century. The St. Aloysius College Chapel with its magnificent Biblical frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings is worth a peek. Equally impressive is the Shreemanthi Bai Memorial Government Museum with its wonderful collection of objets-de-art, archaeology, ethnology, porcelain, and wooden carvings. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Pilikula Nisagardhama, a sprawling 300-acre park, 12km from Mangalore, which has boating facilities, wildlife safari, mini aquariums and a science centre.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Kaup

Kaup

Situated 12km south of Udupi, on the coastal belt that passes through the West Coast National Highway, Kaup has a lovely beach, a ruined fort and an old 100ft. high lighthouse. The two temples of Goddess Mariamma in Kaup are famous. The Jain basadis here are in ruins, but are worth a visit.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Malpe

Malpe

At the mouth of the Malpe river, about 6km from Udupi, is the natural harbour of Malpe, an important fishing centre that enriches Karnataka's coastline with its fabulous beach. The endless stretch of golden sand, graciously swaying palm trees, clear blue sky, and the gentle murmur of the sea set the perfect mood for an idyllic holiday. Across the bay is the island of Darya Bahadurgarh. Be sure to visit the Balarama Temple and Malpe's oldest tile factory, set up by the Basel Mission.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar will help you rediscover your love for solitude. Seat yourself at a vantage point on a hillock and watch the relentless waves crash against the rock. Murudeshwar will woo you with its beaches,Shiva Temple and the tallest Shiva statue in India.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,St.Mary's Island

St.Mary's Island

About 6km from the Malpe coast into the Arabian Sea, one gets to see the palm-fringed St. Mary’s Island which bears the cross that Vasco Da Gama placed when he landed here in 1498. The island is 300m long and 100m wide. It is famous for its unique salt rock formations. Due to this geological importance, St. Mary’s Island is declared as a National Geological Monument. It is also rated among India’s top 7 Natural Wonders by Jet Wings Magazine (November 2009).

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Marawanthe

Marawanthe

Take in the spectacular views at Marawanthe, a seaside town where the West Coast Highway cruises alongside the Arabian Sea on one side, with the picturesque Kodachadri Hills forming a backdrop to the Sauparnika river on the other. Marawanthe wears the look of a fairyland at sunset when the sky turns crimson and the golden rays of the sun are reflected in the sea as well as the river. Water sports promise an action-filled holiday. Visit Baindur, a hamlet 45km from Marawanthe with a lovely beach close by. Near Baindur is the scenic Ottinane with its overhanging cliffs, an ideal place for viewing the sunset. A further drive will take you to the Belaka Theertha Falls near Baindur.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Gokarna

Gokarna

With its narrow streets, traditional houses and temples, the nondescript town of Gokarna has become the favourite haunt of Hindu pilgrims, Sanskrit scholars and beach buffs. Locals believe that Gokarna derives its name from a legend in which Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow. Literally meaning 'cow's ear,' this village is formed by the ear-shaped confluence of two rivers. Adventurous travellers must be prepared for a bit of cliff-scrambling in this coastal town. Om beach, one of Gokarna's five famed beaches, takes the shape of an 'Om,' a spiritual symbol. The other beaches, wedged between gigantic cliffs that protrude like delicate fingers into the sea are Gokarna, Kudle, Half Moon, and Paradise.

The drive up the winding path that leads to Gokarna is a scenic delight with rocky mountains and the Western Ghats on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other. Here, you can experience the famed Karnataka hospitality in friendly guesthouses run by local families.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Kurumgad

Kurumgad

4km from the mainland, this tortoise-shaped island is renowned for the hilltop Narasimha Temple, which attracts thousands of devotees during the annual jatra held on Pushya Purnima every year in early January. Kurumgad is steeped in history, complete with the remains of a fort with cannon holes. Enjoy the panoramic view of the sea, sand, and the neighbouring islands from the tableland of the island, or indulge in activities such as trekking, fishing, dolphin and seal-spotting, boat rides to neighbouring islands, diving, snorkelling, treasure hunts, guided tours, or star-gazing.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Just outside Srirangapatna, near Mysore, the Cauvery river meanders around a string of tiny islets, which together form a splendid nesting site for waterfowl. Experience the excitement of a boat ride that takes you within touching distance of the birds as marsh crocodiles bask in the sun. Delight in watching the winged visitors making happy forays into the water. You could also test your powers of observation by trying to spot flying foxes hanging on the highest branches of the tallest trees at dusk.

 

Location and Area

   

Mandya District; 0.67 sq km.    

     

Flora and Fauna

   

Riverine forests and some deciduous forests, bamboo, eucalyptus, figs, jamun, and acacia.

     

Mammals and Reptiles

   

The flying fox, bonnet macaque, common otter, common mongoose, palm civet, and marsh crocodile are some of the mammals and reptiles found here.

     

Birds

   

The bird life here includes the little cormorant, large cormorant, shag, darter, white ibis, spoonbill, openbilled stork, painted stork, egret, heron, river tern, great stone plover, kingfisher, Indian cliff swallow, and the lesser whistling teal. Best Season: June to November.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

Tucked away amidst mountains, valleys, a mighty river, jungle sounds, and lush greenery, the sanctuary is an idyllic getaway where anglers and nature enthusiasts can get a whiff of raw adventure and a view of the majestic Cauvery as it bounces over jagged rocks. Here, you can trek to the top of the hill to get a panoramic view of the Cauvery flowing through the picturesque valley below. You could also visit the ruins of the magnificent sculpted Shiva temple, a place of worship for the local Soliga tribes, raft down the rapids of the Cauvery, or even indulge in game fishing.

 

Location and Area

   

Districts of Mysore, Bangalore and Mandya; 526.96 sq km.    

     

Flora and Fauna

   

Riverine and dry deciduous forests with some patches of scrub forest.

     

Mammals

   

These include the tiger, leopard, elephant, wild boar, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, four-horned antelope, Malabar giant squirrel, grizzled giant squirrel, common otter and hare.

     

Reptiles

   

The marsh crocodile, turtle, python, cobra, Russell’s viper, and banded krait are found here.

     

Birds

   

The Sirkeer cuckoo, green-billed malkoha, white-browed bulbul and pigmy woodpecker are found here.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,B R Hills Sanctuary

B R Hills Sanctuary

A unique blend of hill resort and wildlife sanctuary, the hills take their name from the ancient Ranganatha Swamy Temple that sits at the edge of a granite precipice with a drop of more than 1000 ft. into a dense forest. Find inner peace at the foot of the great champak tree (Dodda Sampige), believed to be more than 2000 years old and worshipped by the Soligas, the tribals of that area. Don't miss the coffee estates, the tribal hamlets and the Vivekananda Girijana Kalyana Kendra which displays preserved tribal information and the biodiversity of the region. There are many trekking trails here, including one that leads up to Honnamati, the highest point of the range.

 

Location and Area

   

Chamarajanagar District; 539.52 sq km.    

     

Flora and Fauna

   

The vegetation ranges from dry scrub jungle to evergreen forests, and high altitude shola grassland habitat.

     

Mammals

   

These include the elephant, tiger, leopard, wild dog, jungle cat, sloth bear, civet, mongoose, Malabar giant squirrel, porcupine, common langur, bonnet macaque, wild pig, gaur, sambar, spotted deer, and four-horned antelope.

     

Birds

   

The Malabar whistling thrush, yellow throated bulbul, paradise flycatcher,racquet tailed drongo, and crested hawk eagle are some of the birds found here. There is also an amazing variety of exotic butterflies.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Rajiv Gandhi National Park

Rajiv Gandhi National Park

Explore the environs of Nagarahole, Kannada for 'Snake River.' The Rajiv Gandhi National Park derives its name from the winding course of the river that flows through the forests. Nagarahole has an astonishing abundance of wildlife, especially the Asiatic elephant. The backdrop of the distant misty blue Brahmagiri Mountains, the natural sounds of the jungle, the gurgling of streams and rivers, and the twittering of the birds make Nagarahole a memorable experience.

 

Location and Area

 

Kodagu and Mysore districts; 643.39 sq km.

   

Flora and Fauna

 

Covered mainly by moist and dry deciduous forests, and dominated by teak, rosewood and dry deciduous forests in the eastern limits of the park.

   

Mammals

 

These include the elephant, tiger, leopard, wild dog, sambar, barking deer, sloth bear, wild boar, Indian bison, mouse deer, spotted deer, slender loris, black-naped hare, jackal, langur, wild pig, porcupine, Malabar squirrel, striped hyena and fourhorned antelope.

   

Birds

 

Herons, storks, egrets, ducks, kites, eagles, falcons, partridges, peafowl, lapwings, sandpipers, woodpeckers, sunbirds, wagtails, warblers, babblers, shrikes and owls are some of the species found here.

   

Reptiles

 

The marsh crocodile, star tortoise, common Indian monitor, chameleon, rat snake, Russell’s viper, common krait and Indian python can be seen here.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park

Tread the path of the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore with a visit to Bandipur, about 80km south of Mysore on the Mysore-Ooty Road. The reserve is a playground for wildlife, with elephants taking the lead role. Be prepared for an unforgettable experience - you might see a tiger prowling amidst the mix of deciduous, evergreen forest and scrubland vegetation. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the enchanting Niligiri mountains with its mist-covered peaks, Bandipur was once the Mysore Maharaja's private hunting ground. It was brought under Project Tiger in 1973. This is one of the best game sanctuaries in India to observe and photograph wildlife in close proximity. A temple perched atop Himad Gopalaswamy Hill, the highest peak in the Bandipur range, is worth a visit.

Location and Area

   

Chamarajanagar District; 874.2 sq km. Bandipur is flanked by Karnataka’s Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarahole) to its northwest, Tamil Nadu’s Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary to its south, and Kerala’s Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to its southwest. Together, these constitute the Niligiri Biosphere Reserve.

     

Flora and Fauna

   

Deciduous and evergreen forest, and scrubland vegetation.

     

Mammals

   

These include the tiger, leopard, elephant, gaur, sloth bear, Dhole (wild dog), sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer and the slender loris.

     

Reptiles

   

The common rat snake, Russell’s viper, common krait, Indian python, flying snake and the cobra can be seen.

     

Birds

   

Over 200 species of birds have been identified making it a bird-watchers paradise. Some of the most notable ones are the heron, stork, egret, grey jungle fowl, partridge, quail, green pigeon, hornbill, lapwing, and peafowl.

   

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Nandhi Hills

Nandhi Hills

This popular weekend getaway is just 60km from Bangalore. The bracing air and serene environs of Nandi Hills, perched at a height of 1455m above sea level, provided Tipu Sultan and the British with an idyllic summer retreat. Here, you can take leisurely strolls or experience the spine-chilling thrills of paragliding. Two ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva grace the hill, one at the foot and the other at the peak. Nandi Hills shot into prominence during the visits of Queen Elizabeth II in the 1960s and the heads of SAARC countries in the 1980s.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Kodachadri

Kodachadri

Situated 100km from Shimoga and 36km from Hosanagara is this enchanting mountain which overlooks the vast Western Ghats. Kodachadri is famed for its glorious sunrises and sunsets. The peak of Kodachadri (at an altitude of 1343 m above sea level) can be reached by a five-hour trek. On the western side, the hill descends steeply for about 1220m, meeting the forests of Udupi district. The famous temple town of Kollur is 12km away. These hills (4411ft.) constitute one of the largest forest areas in Karnataka, and part of this region forms the Mookambika Nature Reserve. Kollur is an ideal base to explore the hills. The Mookambika Nature Camp is 4km south of Kollur. 

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Kundadri

Kundadri

Located on Theerthahalli-Agumbe road, about 12km from Theerthahalli, Kundadri Hill is a gigantic monolithic rock formation. Surrounded by dense evergreen forests, it is a lovely place for trekking. A rough, stone-paved path leads to a Jain temple perched atop the hill. Camping in the open at Kundadri Hills on a full moon night is an exhilarating experience.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Kemmangundi

Kemmangundi

The picturesque hill station of Kemmangundi is located at a height of 1434m above sea level. This was the summer retreat of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. Ringed by the Baba Budangiri Range and blessed with silver cascades, mountain streams and lush vegetation, Kemmangundi's beautifully laid-out ornamental gardens, enchanting mountains and valley views are a treat to the eye. The spectacular sunset view from the Raj Bhavan is a photographer's delight. For the adventurous at heart, Kemmangundi offers many peaks to scale and intricate jungle paths to explore.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Agumbe

Agumbe

If you enjoy spectacular sunsets, sparkling streams, verdant village vistas, and an unspoilt rustic ambience, Agumbe is the place for you. Situated at an elevation of 826m in Shimoga district, Agumbe provided the perfect setting for R. K. Narayan to film his novel Malgudi Days. Agumbe and its environs are full of exciting trekking routes. Forested trails lead from here to a jungle pond called Emkal Kere, a hillock called Nishani Gudda, and to Barkana Falls. Agumbe is also known as the Cherrapunji of South India. You can also stop by the 14th century temple with Hoysala-style sculptures dedicated to Lord Gopalakrishna. The sunset as seen from Agumbe is a spectacular sight and many visitors come here to watch it, especially between November and January. A microwave tower, a significant landmark of Agumbe, is located at this point.

 

Permission for trekking must be obtained from the Forest Department. Contact DFO, Shimoga Division, or Range Forest Officer, Megaravalli, Agumbe Range. 

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur

Nestled in the Baba Budan hills, Chikmagalur is a calm, serene town full of surprises with hills, valleys, streams and coffee plantations. Coffee seed was planted here for the first time in India. Chikmagalur is a trekker's delight due to its rugged mountain trails, numerous hills, valleys and fresh water streams. Explore the rare wildlife sanctuary, ancient temples and forts. Take a stroll through the coffee plantations or catch a magnificent sunset. Experience the best of Western Ghats in Chikmagalur. For an enriching experience on the world of coffee, visit the Coffee Museum.

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Karnataka Tourism Place,Coorg

Coorg

Madikeri is the picturesque capital of Kodagu (also called Coorg) the land of coffee, cardamom, colonels and the Cauvery. The capital of Kodagu district is located in a beautiful hilly setting surrounded by the forested slopes of the Western Ghats. Here, time seems to have stopped. Dotted with a cluster of red-roofed dwellings and a bustling bazaar, the town, situated at an elevation of 1525m, has a charming old-world look. Madikeri provides access to some excellent picnic spots.

Not much is known about the early history of Kodagu. From 1600 A.D. onwards, the Lingayat rajas ruled over Kodagu and established their capital at Madikeri where they built a mud fort. The Kodavas, as the people of Kodagu are called, troubled the Mysore rulers Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan through sporadic rebellions. Finally, in 1785 A.D., Tipu marched into Kodagu with a large army and devastated the little kingdom.

Four years later, with the help of the British, Kodagu regained its independence and Raja Veerarajendra set about the task of reconstruction. In 1834 A.D., the British took over power in Kodagu. 

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