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The Hoysala Kings ruled most part of Karnataka, the Southern state of India from 10th to 14th century. These Kings were great patrons of Art, Architecture and commissioned some of the best stone temples ever built. Belur-Halebidu, in Hassan district of Karnataka, go together like twin cities. Separated only by a short drive, both were home to the Hoysala dynasty for three centuries (mid-11th to mid-14th century). The Belur and Halebidu temples are cut from the soft stone called chloritic schist. It allowed for very fine detailing, evident in the intricately carved temple walls. As representations of South Indian styles they are comparable only to the temples at Khajuraho. Of special interest are the engineering techniques used in assembling the temple, particularly the locking systems that used grid locks, interlocks, and the pin & socket system. They were used for attaching separately carved panels onto the walls and ceilings, achieving a continuous and inseparable appearance ...

Melukote in Karnataka, southern India, is one of the sacred places of the Hindu religion. The place is also known as Thirunarayanapuram. It is built on rocky hills, known as Yadugiri, Yaadavagiri and Yadushailadeepa, overlooking the Cauvery valley. Melukote is about 51 kms from Mysore and 133 kms from Bangalore. Melukote is the location of the Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple. On the top of the hill is the temple of Yoganarasimha. It is believed that the image of Yoga Narasimha temple was installed by Prahlada himself. Krishnaraja Wodeyar III presented a gold crown to Lord Yoga Narasimha. Many more shrines and ponds are located in the town. Melukote is home to the Academy of Sanskrit Research, which has collected thousands of Vedic and Sanskrit manuscripts. Early in the 12th century, the famous Srivaishnava saint Sri Ramanujacharya, who hailed from Tamil Nadu, stayed at Melukote for about 12 years. It has thus become a prominent centre of the Srivaishnava sect. The raja gopuram (e...

Shravanabelagola is a Jain pilgrim destination located in the Hassan district of Karnataka state, Southern India. It is at a distance of 157 kms from Bangalore and is a popular day outing spot. There are ancient monuments in and around Shravanabelagola. There are monuments of rare excellence and skill, executed by the illustrious Gangas and Hoysalas who had a profound sense of duty and ardent devotion to religion. The finest monuments are found in two sacred hills, Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri. The town is small and you can easily walk between the major attractions. Vindhyagiri hill is about 150 m (470 feet) above the ground and is one solid rock. It must be climbed barefoot. Most tourists use the main steps from the town consisting of triple flights of about 660 steps to the top, cutout in the rock. People of all ages climb these steps; however they are steep and it can be a hard climb. The 17 m (58 ft) high monolithic stone statue of the Lord Gommateshwara, also referred to as Ba...

Bagalkot or Bagalakote is a city in Karnataka state of India. It is situated on the branch of River Ghataprabha about 530 kms northwest of state capital Bangalore. The legendary Chalukya Dynasty ruled Bagalkot District once upon a time, in northern Karnataka. Occupying a distance of 6593 sq. km, Bagalkot District is flanked by Bijapur district in the north and Gadag district in the south. Bagalkot presents itself as a gateway to a number of day trips – notably to Badami Caves (covered earlier in this blog). Others include Kudalasangama and Almatti Dam. Kudalasangama is an important center of pilgrimage for Lingayats. It is located about 15 kilometres from the Almatti Dam. The Krishna and Malaprabha rivers merge here and flow east towards Srisaila (another pilgrim center) in Andhra Pradesh. The holy resting place of Basavanna, the founder of the Lingayat sect of Hindu religion along with a Linga, which is believed to be self-formed, is here. A temple has been built here in Chaluk...

Bijapur, officially known as Vijayapura, is the district headquarters of Bijapur District of Karnataka state of India. It is also the headquarters for Bijapur Taluka. Bijapur city is well known for its historical monuments of architectural importance built during the rule of the Adil Shahi dynasty. Bijapur is located 530 km northwest of the State Capital Bengaluru and about 550 km from Mumbai, and 384 km west of the city of Hyderabad. A historic city epitomizing the Deccan’s Islamic era, dusty Vijapura tells a glorious tale dating back some 600 years. Blessed with a treasure house of mosques, mausoleums, palaces and fortifications, it was the capital of the Adil Shahi kings from 1489 to 1686, and one of the five splinter states formed after the Islamic Bahmani kingdom broke up in 1482. Despite its strong Islamic character, Vijapura is also a centre for the Lingayat brand of Shaivism, which emphasises a single personalised god. In an introduction to an album of Bijapur published ...

Not many people know that Karnataka, India has two UNESCO world heritage sites – Hampi & Pattadakal – both located in North Karnataka. Pattadakal, together with Aihole and Badami Caves are major centers of historically important Chalukya monuments. The Chalukya empire ruled from Aihole, Badamai and Pattadakal and you can see architectural marvels in Red sandstone. The beginning of temple architecture in India may well have started from here. Aihole (pronounced “Eye-ho-lé”), also referred to as Aivalli, Ahivolal or Aryapura, is a historic site of ancient and medieval era Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments in north Karnataka dated from the fourth century through the twelfth century CE. Located around an eponymous small village surrounded by farmlands and sandstone hills, Aihole is a major archaeological site featuring over one hundred and twenty stone and cave temples from this period, spread along the Malaprabha river valley, in Bagalakote district. Aihole is 22 miles (35 km) f...

A church that drowns every monsoon and emerges back during the summers… the Shettihalli Rosary Church located around 22km from Hassan in Karnataka, India is a structure that is in ruins, yet a wonderful piece of art that has stood the test of time. This Gothic church was built in 1860 by the French missionaries. Later, in 1960s Gorur reservoir was constructed so that the water of Hemavathi river can be used in a better way. Subsequently, the collateral damage during the process led to submersion of around 28 villages around the river in flood. Though all the inhabitants were relocated to nearby villages, the church was abandoned forever. This roofless structure is located at a barren field, and is an unexplored location. Though not many travel here, it is visited by research scholars, architecture students and explorers. Today, the church is home to some birds and is a silent place where you can spend a lazy evening after a hectic week at work. Every year, the monsoons fill up the...

At a distance of 110 Kms from Bangalore (via Kanakapura), 107 Kms from Mysore, Sangama and Mekedatu are two lovely places situated nearby. This is one of the famous weekend getaways from Bangalore. Mekedatu is a location along Kaveri in Kanakapura Taluk. Sangama is the place where Arkavati merges with Kaveri. From this point, about 3.5 kilometers downstream, the river Kaveri flows through a deep and narrow gorge. Mekedatu means ‘goat’s leap’ in Kannada. The name comes from an incident which is believed to have been witnessed by herdsmen in that area a long time ago. It is said that a goat being chased by a tiger made a desperate attempt to save its life by leaping from one side of the gorge and managed to cross over the raging river below, whereas the tiger did not attempt to replicate this feat, and abandoned the chase. The point where the goat leapt has widened since then from erosion caused by the river Cauvery. There is also some mythological significance to this place (both San...

An ancient metropolis, Hampi is one of the most frequently visited places in India by history buffs. If one has to short-list the best heritage sites in India, then Hampi would definitely be in the top 3. Imagine an entire city dating back to the 16th century, preserved in a pretty decent condition. The time required to explore these ruins can vary anywhere from a single day to even a week. It all depends on one’s interest and patience to keep on exploring. From palaces to market streets, it is a fascinating place to visit and has the right mix of history, nature and culture to suit even the most discerning traveller. If one is looking for a weekend getaway from Bengaluru, this is the place to be! Hampi is a village and temple town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed as the Group of Monuments at Hampi in northern Karnataka, India. It is located within the ruins of the city of Vijayanagara, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Predating the city of Vijayan...

Mysore served as the capital city of the Kingdom of Mysore for nearly six centuries, from 1399 until 1956. The Kingdom was ruled by the Wadiyar dynasty, with a brief period of interregnum in the 1860s and 70s when Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan were in power. Patrons of art and culture, the Wodeyars contributed significantly to the cultural growth of the city and the state. The cultural ambiance and achievements of Mysore earned it the sobriquet Cultural Capital of Karnataka. Mysore is noted for its heritage structures and palaces, including the Mysore Palace. It is also famous for the festivities that take place during the Dasara festival when the city receives a large number of tourists from across the world. It lends its name to various forms arts and culture – like Mysore Dasara and Mysore Painting. Dishes like the sweet dish Mysore Pak and Mysore masala dosa, Brands like Mysore Sandal Soap, Mysore Ink. Styles and cosmetics like Mysore Peta (a traditional silk turban) and the Mysor...

Nandi Hills, near Bengaluru, India, serve as a great trekking destination and one of the most popular one-day getaway for people in the metro. The hills are blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year. It’s picturesque location featuring the misty mountains and the brilliant sunrise. With its attractions comprising of religious sites, Nandi Hills is also a nature lover’s as well as an adventure enthusiast’s haven with trekking and other activities, amongst the dewy hillocks and exotic flora & fauna. There are many stories about the origin of the name Nandi Hills. During the Chola period, it was called Ananda Giri meaning The Hill of Happiness. Another story is that Yoga Nandeeshwara performed penance here, and so it was named after him. A temple of Yoga Nandeeshwara is situated on top of the hill. Nandi is also commonly called Nandidurga (Fort) because of the fort build here by the ruler Tippu Sultan. It is also perhaps called because the hill resembles a sleeping bull...

Ranganathittu is a bird sanctuary that can be visited throughout the year by bird lovers. Easily accessible from Bangalore, enroute to Mysore, visiting this place is a great option for both children and adults. Visitors experience the excitement of a boat ride that takes them within touching distance of the birds as marsh crocodiles bask in the sun. It’s a delight watching the winged visitors making happy forays into the water. November heralds in the winter migrants who stay put until March, adding to the already numerous varieties of birds one can see here. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is about 40 acres and comprises six islets on the banks of the Kaveri river. Ranganathittu is located three kilometers away from the historic town of Srirangapatna and 16 kilometres north of Mysore. The process of the formation of this sanctuary started in 1648, culminating with the noted ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali observing that the isles there formed an important nesting ground for birds,...

The Biligirirangana Hills (B R hills) along with the Male Mahadeshwara Hills (M M Hills) range forms a distinctly unusual ridge running north-south amidst the plains of Bangalore. B R Hills is a hill range situated in south-eastern Karnataka, India. Being at the confluence of the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats, the sanctuary is home to eco-systems that are unique to both the mountain ranges. The hills are famous for the temple of Lord Ranganatha or Lord Venkatesha which is situated on the highest peak of the hill range, on the ‘white cliff’ which gives the hill its name. Nearby, the ancient and sacred temple of Sri Male Mahadeshwara (M M Hills) is a very popular Shaiva pilgrim centre. It draws lakhs of pilgrims from the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Amidst dense forest, the temple attracts not only the pilgrims but also nature lovers. The height of the hill is about 3000 feet above sea level.

Pyramid Valley is located near Bangalore, India. It is the biggest pyramid shaped meditation hall in the world. It is also the largest pyramid in Asia. It stands above 102 feet. It can accommodate 6000 people at a time. Various statues of Buddha, Gandhi, Osho, Shiva and Lobsang Rampa adorn the place. Built in 2005, the Pyramid is the ideal place for meditation. There is also a dormitory near the Pyramid which can accommodate 200 people at a time. It is believed that meditation in this Pyramid is about three times more effective than normal meditation. Hundreds of people visit the Valley regularly, every day, to meditate in this high energy Pyramid. The interiors and exteriors of the Pyramid have been designed in such a way as to provide the most conducive environment for meditation. The Pyramid is complete with murals, paintings and statues of Lord Buddha. It provides the perfect ambiance for peaceful and undisturbed meditation. Good greenery around and water bodies sandwiched b...

Shivamogga, located around 350 KMS from Bengaluru in Karnataka state, is a popular weekend getaway especially during the monsoon season. Shivamogga is popularly nicknamed as the “Gateway to Western Ghats”. Day trips to several beautiful places are done with Shivamogga as the base. Jog Falls – a 2 hour drive from Shivamogga gets you to Jog Falls, the second highest plunge waterfall in India (830 ft) and ranked 13th in the world by the waterfall database. It can be viewed from the top view point as well as from the bottom. Jog Falls is created by the Sharavathi River. While visiting Jog Falls, it is best to pack your own food or have it at Sagar town near the falls. Tyavarekoppa Tiger & Lion Safari – located en route to Jog Falls, you are put into caged jeeps and taken around on a safari to spot tigers & lions roaming in the wild! Beautiful experience. There is a mini zoo as well. Ikkeri Temple – located close to Jog Falls, Ikkeri temple dedicated to the God Shiva was...

The largest Tibetan settlement outside of Tibet is at Bylakuppe in Coorg District. It is located near Mysore, Karnataka State of India. The Namdroling Monastery, also known as Golden Temple, is situated here. The work on the pagoda of the Monastery is amazing. The 3 gigantic golden idols measuring 18 meters in height in the Golden Temple takes one’s breath away. His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche established the Monastery in 1963. It has now grown into a full-fledged town housing the largest Tibetan population outside of Dharamsala in India. It is the largest teaching center of Nyingmapa – a lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. There are around 5000 monks & nuns propagating the teachings of Buddha. The name “Namdroling” was conferred by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A long, leisurely visit to the Namdroling monastery would take up almost half a day, though Bylakuppe has more to offer in terms of places to see. If adventure and thrill is what you seek, Bylakuppe might not be the best ...

The Art of Living Foundation is a volunteer-based, humanitarian and educational non-governmental organization (NGO). It was founded in 1981 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The Bangalore Ashram is the Foundation’s International headquarters. The ashram is spread over 65 acres and was established in 1986. The highlights of the grounds are a lake and a central meditation centre, the Vishalakshi Mantap. A very peaceful and calm place. In the midst of nature away from the busy city, this place gives a great peace to mind. The fresh breeze and nature is relief from the smog and pollution of the city. Spend few hours here to gain some spiritual solace.

Shivanasamudra is a small town in the Mandya District of the state of Karnataka, India. It is situated on the banks of the river Kaveri, which forms the boundary to the Chamarajanagar and Mysore Districts. It is the location of one of the first Hydro-electric Power stations in Asia, which was set up in the year 1902. The Shivanasamudra Falls is on the Kaveri River. After the river has wound its way through the rocks and ravines of the Deccan Plateau, it drops off to form waterfalls. This is a segmented waterfall. There are two falls – Gaganachukki falls and Bharachukki falls which is few miles away. The falls have an average width of 305 meters, a height of 98 m. The World Waterfall Database ranked Shivanasamudra falls as world’s top 45 waterfalls among the world’s 100 waterfalls.