Things to Do in Shimoga

Known For : The Honnemaradu Reservoir Dabbe Falls Rafting in Honnemaradu

Honnemaradu is a small cosy village by the Honnemaradu Reservoir. The site is set in the middle of a valley, and a weekend getaway to this place is nothing less than an adventure camp. . Camping, canoeing or even just relaxing by the lake, Honnemaradu is perfect for a quick getaway. 

Best Time: October to December, March to Apr

10 Honnemaradu Attractions

The second-highest plunge waterfall in India, Jog Falls is a major tourist attraction in Karnataka and is the highest waterfall in the state. Second, to the Nohkalikai Falls of Meghalaya, Jog falls drop about a huge 253 m (850 ft. ) in a single fall. 

Best Time: July to December

9 Jog Falls Attractions

In the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe is a small village often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of South India". A one-of-a-kind experience in perhaps one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world, the Sita Nadi river rafting is an unparalleled experience.

Kodachadri Hills serve as a stunning backdrop of evergreen forests to the town of Maravanthe. Located in the Western Ghats at 4411 feet above sea level amidst Karnataka’s Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, they also prove to be one of the good trekking trails, beginning at the South Kanara Forest.

Locally known also as "Sigandooru", the city is well known for its Shri Chowdeshwari Temple, which is dedicated to the Goddess Chowdeshwari. Present on the banks of the Sharavati River, the temple is a must-visit for many devotees worldwide. 

The Barkana Falls is located between Agumbe and Shimoga and derive their name from ‘Barka’, the mouse deer, a shy creature that inhabits this particular region. The trek route runs through the dense rainforests of the Western Ghats. 

Located 10 km from Shimoga, a thick cover of forest is situated there inhabiting tigers and lions moving freely in its deep parts. A lion and tiger safari began there in 1988, across a huge area of 200 hectares.

Tucked away from the prying eyes of the world, the Jogigundi Falls are situated amid the dense forests of Western Ghats.  Unlike traditional waterfalls, they do not fall from a height instead they originate from a cave and run through a hill. 

Situated in the village of Aralasurali in Shimoga, Karnataka, Achakanya Falls is one of the town's best-kept secrets. The 6-7 feet high waterfalls is a popular picnic spot for the locals and an ideal trekking spot.

Linganamakki Dam is one of the largest human-made water reservoirs in the country.  The scenery here is exhilarating, with magnificent views of forested islands and hills covered in dense foliage.

The Onake Abbi falls is one of the many waterfalls in Shimoga. The trek to the top of the fall is relatively short covering a distance of about 4-5 kilometres. The trail runs through a dense forest that is rich in flora and fauna. The summit of the trek offers a breathtaking view of the entire waterfall as it cascades from a height of 500 feet.

Best Time : November - February

Time Required : 1 day

The beautiful Nagara Fort has located 84 km from Shimoga, built on a small hill near a lake, and is a popular place known for its scenic views. The fort has a well-developed system to circulate water and also comprises a large Darbar Hall and two tanks known as Akka Thangi Kola.

Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp is where one can see herds of Elephants being trained. It is a popular spot among tourists at a distance of nearly 14 km from the town of Shimoga. This eco-tourism centre has elephants trained by skilled mahouts. 

The second-largest church in India, the Sacred Heart Church is a fine example of Church architecture in Shimoga. However, a statue of Jesus at the church is the salient feature of here attracting people in large numbers.

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small picturesque island located in the River Tunga, nearly 32 km from Shimoga town. The perfect time to explore the island is from July to October, during which the island is visited by many migratory birds such as darter, egret, snake-bird, cormorant etc. 

The Bhadra dam is constructed on the river Bhadra, which is a tributary of the River Tungabhadra. The dam is surrounded by lush greenery and is a majestic place. The river has many small islands home to migratory birds like the red spurfowl, emerald dove, black woodpecker and green imperial pigeon.

A paradise for ornithologists, Gudavi Bird Sanctuary, is spread across an area of nearly 0.75 sq km.  It is a popular destination in the region and inhabits various species of migratory birds like white ibis, little cormorant, Indian cormorant, pariah kite, little grebe, jungle fowl etc. 

Situated about 12 km from Thirthahalli, Kundadri is a hillock known for the Jain Temple perched at the top of it. Blessed with bounteous natural beauty and an amazing view of the mountains in the backdrop, the place is a trekker’s haven and a paradise for nature lovers.

These pristine falls in the Shimoga district are not polluted due to them being hidden in the mountains and not warranting much tourist activity. A major trek through a valley leads to these falls.

Keladi is a village in the Shimoga District known for its rich past and culture. Once served as the first capital of the Keladi Nayaka Kingdom, today this prime location is adorned with two popular attractions i.e. Keladi Rameshwara Temple and Keladi Museum.

Located 12 km from Shimoga en route to Thirthahalli, Gajanur Dam is a perfect picnic spot. The landscape, its plantations and lush forests surrounding the massive dam make it a popular attraction. This calls for plenty of photo opportunities.

The Mahatma Gandhi Park is one of the oldest parks in Shimoga. It comprises of a swimming pool, a path for joggers, a play area for kids and a small train that runs in the park. Different flower shows are also conducted here.

A very famous tourist destination in Karnataka, Shimoga also has a storehouse of stuff to offer its shopaholic visitors. It is mainly famous for handicrafts, rosewood carvings, sandalwood, sarees with Kasuti work and wooden toys laced in lacquer.

Also known as the Keladi Kote, this fort is located in the Shimoga district and is named after the Keladi dynasty that ruled this place.  All visitors must carry food and tents on their way here. It is not directly accessible by road, one has to walk to reach the fort. 

Kavaledurga is an ancient hill fort situated near Shimoga in Karnataka that is perched at a height of 1541 metres. Although in ruins right now, the hill fort is still considered to be one of the most scenic and enchanting places in the state. Engulfed in greenery, the fort is surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats. 

Shimoga is a getaway with tourist pouring in large number. Being located in South India one may expect the South Indian cuisine to be predominant in the area. Paayasa, Thambli, Avalakki are some of the popular dishes in Shimoga.