Places To Visit In Shimoga

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  • Waterfall (11)
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1. Kodachadri

Kodachadri
Top Attraction 3.4 /5

75 km
from city center
1 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Situated about 115 km away from Shimoga town, Kodachadri is a peak in Western Ghats packed full of flora and fauna.

2. Jog Falls

Jog Falls
Top Attraction 3.4 /5

88 km
from city center
2 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

One of the most sought after attraction and natural wonder in the region, Jog Falls is located nearly 100 km from Shimoga town. Lying in Sagara, it is the 11th highest waterfall in India created by Sharavathi River.

3. Agumbe

Agumbe
Top Attraction 4.0 /5

65 km
from city center
3 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

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.

4. Honnemaradu

Honnemaradu

4 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

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.

5. Keladi

Keladi
3.1 /5

2 km
from city center
5 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

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 spots i.e. Rameshwara Temple and Keladi Museum.

6. Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari

Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari
3.1 /5

9 km
from city center
6 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

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.

7. Sakrebailu Elephant Camp

Sakrebailu Elephant Camp
3.1 /5

15 km
from city center
7 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp is a place where one can see herds of Elephants being trained. Situated at a distance of nearly 14 km from the town of Shimoga, it is a quite popular spot among tourists.

8. Dabbe Falls

Dabbe Falls
Top Attraction 3.6 /5

92 km
from city center
8 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

These pristine falls in 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.

9. Kundadri

Kundadri
3.1 /5

60 km
from city center
9 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Kundadari is a place for trekkers, situated about 12 km from Thirthahalli. A paradise for trekking lovers, it offers a good trail with a Kundadri Hill which is huge single rock formation and many protrusions.

10. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary

Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
Top Attraction 3.4 /5

82 km
from city center
10 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

A paradise for bird watchers, Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is spread across an area of nearly 0.75 sq km. The sanctuary is located in the town of Sorab in the proximity of Shimoga on the banks of Gudvi Lake.

11. Bhadra Dam

Bhadra Dam

26 km
from city center
11 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

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 to be at. The river has many small islands which are home to migratory birds like the red spurfowl, emerald dove, black woodpecker and green imperial pigeon.

12. Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari

Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari
3.1 /5

9 km
from city center
12 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

A popular picnic spot rich in fauna, Tyavarekoppa is located about 10 km from Shimoga town. Covering a huge area of 200 hectares, the place is renowned for its Lion and Tiger Safari which commenced in the year 1998.

13. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
Top Attraction 3.4 /5

25 km
from city center
13 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small picturesque island located in the River Tunga nearly 32 km from Shimoga town on the way to Thirthahalli.

14. Gajanur Dam

Gajanur Dam
Top Attraction 3.4 /5

14 km
from city center
14 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Located 12 km from Shimoga en-route Thirthahalli, one can witness a perfect picnic spot in a way of Tunga Dam built over River Tunga. An Elephant Camp where elephants are trained can also be enjoyed there by visitors.

15. Barkana Falls

Barkana Falls
Top Attraction 4.0 /5

69 km
from city center
15 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

The Barkana Falls are 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. During monsoons, the regions start buzzing with life as new streams begin to emerge and the canopy of vegetation gets dense enough for any traveller to lose orientation. The best time to visit these falls are in the early days of winter.

16. Onake Abbi Falls

Onake Abbi Falls
Top Attraction 4.0 /5

71 km
from city center
16 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

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.

17. Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum

Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum
3.1 /5

10 km
from city center
17 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Lying on the banks of River Tunga, the Shivappanaika Palace is a popular attraction located within the Shimoga town. A very much sought after destination among tourists, the palace was established by Shivappa Naik of Keladi during 16th century and was crafted brilliantly out of rosewood.

18. Sacred Heart Church

Sacred Heart Church
3.0 /5

59 km
from city center
18 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

The second largest church in India, the sacred Heart Church is a fine example of an architectural marvel of Shimoga. It is a Catholic Church spread over an area of 18000 sq ft.

19. Hosahalli

Hosahalli
3.0 /5

6 km
from city center
19 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

A unique village that merges ancient India with modern civilisation, the village of Hosahalli, along with its twin village Mattur, is known across the world as the only place where the ancient Sanskrit language is still spoken on a day-to-day basis.

20. Mattur

Mattur
3.0 /5

6 km
from city center
20 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

A tiny village in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, the quaint little Mattur, along with its twin village Hosahalli, is famous across the world for being one of the few existing locations where the ancient language of Sanskrit is used colloquially and in routine conversation.

21. Nagara Fort

Nagara Fort

59 km
from city center
21 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

The beautiful Nagara Fort is located 84 km from Shimoga and is 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 of a large Darbar Hall and two tanks known as Akka Thangi Kola, apart from a cannon.

22. Kunchikal Falls

Kunchikal Falls

65 km
from city center
22 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Kunchikal Falls located on the Shimoga- Udupi highway in Karnataka is India's highest waterfalls situated on River Varahi. There is also a hydro-electric plant installed on the waterfalls to generate electricity. Situated amidst the dense lusty woods, the waterfalls are also a popular trekking spot. It ranks 116 in the list of highest waterfalls in the world. Unlike many waterfalls in Shimoga, Kunchikal Falls is accessible by road and visitors just have to walk a few meters from the parking to view the falls.

23. Tunga Anicut Dam

Tunga Anicut Dam
3.2 /5

88 km
from city center
23 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

This is the most popular picnic spot near Jog Falls, with lush green paddy fields surrounding it. One also finds Teak jungles, all around the dam.

24. Kanoor Fort

Kanoor Fort
3.2 /5

102 km
from city center
24 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Also known as the Keladi Kote, this fort is located in Shimoga district and is named after the Keladi dynasty that ruled this place.

25. Linganamakki Dam

Linganamakki Dam
3.6 /5

82 km
from city center
25 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Constructed by the Karnataka State Government in 1964, The Linganamakki Dam is a 2.4 km long structure stretching across the Sharavathi river. Situated about 6 kms from Jog Falls, the Dam is located in the Sagara taluk of the state. The Dam receives water mainly from rainfall and also from the Chakra and Savahaklu reservoirs, which are linked to the Linganamakki Dam through a canal. When the Dam's sluice gates are closed, the Jog Falls get reduced to a mere trickle. However, they become magnificant once the gates are opened. The Dam, being quite large in size, offers a breathtaking view.

26. Unchalli Falls

Unchalli Falls
3.7 /5

103 km
from city center
26 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Unchalli Falls also known as Lushington Falls, is a waterfall created by a 116 metres (381 ft) drop in the Aghanashini river. The fall is located near Siddapur in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, India. The falls are named for J. D. Lushington, a District Collector for the British Government, who discovered the falls in 1845.

27. Shivaganga Falls

Shivaganga Falls

130 km
from city center
27 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Shivganga Falls located near Sirsi in Shimoga in the state of Karnataka is a haven for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Swimming is allowed here. The water cascading down several cliffs amidst dense woods and plenteous vegetation is also a popular trekking spot. The waterfalls are surrounded by several forests and overlook the valley. Another popular attraction here is the Ganeshpal Island which has a small Ganapathi Temple here. The falls are not accessible by road but rather by trek only, which brings the element of adventure here.

28. Jogigundi Falls

Jogigundi Falls
Top Attraction 4.0 /5

70 km
from city center
28 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Tucked away from the prying eyes of the world, the Jogigundi Falls are situated in the midst of the dense forests of Western Ghats. The unique feature of these falls is the point of origin. Unlike traditional waterfalls they do not fall from a height, instead they originate from a cave and run through a hill. The falls are not accessible by road and it requires a trek to reach the falls.

29. Sigandur Chowdeshwari Temple

Sigandur Chowdeshwari Temple
Top Attraction 4.2 /5

77 km
from city center
29 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Sigandur or Sigandooru is a small village located in Sagara Taluk, Karnataka, India. The village is surrounded on three sides by back waters of the Linganamakki Dam formed on the Sharavathi River. The place is well-known for the Sigandur Chowdeshwari Temple, which attracts many hundreds of people every day, both locals and visitors.

30. Koodli

Koodli
3.5 /5

5 km
from city center
30 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

The Varanasi of South, Koodli, is amongst the holiest places of Southern India and the site of confluence of two holy rivers Tunga & Bhadra.

31. Pongal in Shimoga

Pongal in Shimoga
3.1 /5

77 km
from city center
31 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

If you are travelling to the city in mid January, you will be quite lucky to participate in one of the most awaited festival not only in Shimoga but also in whole state. Pongal is celebrated to honor The Sun God or Surya devta. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and vigor. A special dish is prepared with rice, cardamom, jaggery and cashew nuts and is consumed on the festival day.

32. Shiva Temple, Shimoga

Shiva Temple, Shimoga

3 km
from city center
32 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

The Shiva Temple, also known as Kedareshwara Temple in Shimoga is an ancient stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in 11th century in the Shilahar kingdom, the beautiful temple is situated on the bank of river Krishna in the village of Khidrapur. It also houses a Swarg Mandap, which means a room without a roof.

33. Shopping in Shimoga

Shopping in Shimoga
3.0 /5

0 km
from city center
33 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Shimoga is a popular destination offering some amazing products to take back as souvenir. Handicraft items, different type of spices and sandalwood are some of the popular items you would like to while visiting the town.

34. Gandhi Park

Gandhi Park

1 km
from city center
34 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

The Mahatma Gandhi Park is one of the oldest parks in Shimoga, and is used widely by the locals. 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.

35. Hidlumane Falls

Hidlumane Falls

74 km
from city center
35 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Located in the dense Mookambika forests, Hidlumane Falls is a series of 6 - 7 mesmerising waterfalls in the district of Shimoga, Karnataka. All of these waterfalls are hidden from view of one another and the most gorgeous one is situated at the top and is the last of the series. The pool is shallow and hence you find a lot of visitors swimming here. But swimming is prohibited here during the monsoons as the currents get harsh.

36. Achakanya Falls

Achakanya Falls

0 km
from city center
36 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Situated in the village of Aralasurali in Shimoga, Karnataka, Achakanya Falls is one of the town's best kept secrets. The waterfall is formed over River Sharavathi in the dense woods of the Western Ghats. The 6-7 feet high waterfalls is a visual delight to the eyes, a popular picnic spot for the locals and also an ideal trekking spot.

37. Kavaledurga

Kavaledurga

54 km
from city center
37 out of 37
Places To Visit in Shimoga (Shivamogga)

Kavaledurga is 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. The heritage spot is a hidden secret in the region and therefore is devoid of the typical tourist crowd. The fort can be reached through a trek uphill that might be a little tiring but the view at the top will make it all worthwhile.

FAQs on Shimoga (Shivamogga)

What are the top sightseeing places in Shimoga?

The top sightseeing places in Shimoga are Dabbe Falls, Kodachadri, Jog Falls, Agumbe, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, Gajanur Dam.

How can I commute within Shimoga?

Shimoga as a town is a small place which also serves as the district headquarters. Commuting with the city is quite easy with taxis, although you might want a guide to explore the place. Auto rickshaw is other option which charged minimum of Rs. 20 for commuting from one city to another. However, bargaining might come as a useful tact.
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Can you suggest an itinerary for Shimoga?

Shimoga is a small place that can be explored in 1-2 days. It is better if you stay for two days. On the first day, you can start by visiting the Sakrebyle Elephant camp early in the morning. Then you can visit the Mangadde bird sanctuary during the afternoon, and end the day by an evening safari at the Tyavarekoppa Lion & Tiger sanctuary. You can try authentic south Indian food at night.

The next day, you should start early morning and visit the Jog falls which are a must visit. If you are interested in trekking, you can opt for the Kodachadri trek; or you can try your hand at river rafting, kayaking, and canoeing in the Sharavathi Nature trails. On your way back, you can visit the Shivappanaika Palace Museum and the Gajanur dam. 

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