Karnataka India
Karnataka is a state in southwest India with Arabian Sea coastlines. The capital, Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore), is a high-tech hub known for its shopping and nightlife. To the southwest, Mysore is home to lavish temples including Mysore Palace, former seat of the region’s maharajas. Hampi, once the medieval Vijayanagara empire’s capital, contains ruins of Hindu temples, elephant stables and a stone chariot.
The Hoysala dynasty’s 12th-century landmarks include Belur’s Chennakesava Temple and Halebidu’s Hoysaleswara Temple, with ornate carvings. Shravanabelagola draws Jain pilgrims to its hilltop, 17m-high Gomateshwara statue. Another pilgrimage town, Gokarna, is home to Om Beach, with 3 interconnected bays. In Karnataka’s far north, Badami’s cave temples, cut out of sandstone cliffs, date to the 6th century. The walled city Vijayapur (Bijapur) has 2 grand medieval Muslim mausoleums, Ibrahim Rauza and Gol Gumbaz. Near Mysore, Bandipur and Nagarhole national parks are tiger reserves. Jog Falls is a plunge waterfall reaching 250 meters.
Nestled near Madikeri, Abbey Falls stands surrounded by a blanket of greenery. It is also known as Abbi Falls. To reach the waterfall, you will have to drive up to its entrance and then cover a short distance on foot.
As you make your way to the waterfall, you will be greeted by lush plantations of spice and coffee. The roar of the water along with the aroma of the plantations is a delight in itself. The brilliant view of the waterfall from the hanging bridge running opposite to the waterfall is a sight to cherish. Guarded by tall trees with pepper vines for a company, Abbey Falls sparkles as if a stream of white pearls is running down a green wall at a great speed. But if you happen to be standing on the hanging bridge right after the monsoons, the voluminous waterfall will leave you soaked by its spray of water.
Dubare Elephant camp is a project undertaken by forest department and Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd. This camp has plenty of elephants which are trained under naturalists. A trained Naturalist is at hand to explain the various aspects of Elephant history, ecology and biology. The visitor can not only observe and learn but also participate in various activities involving Elephants.
The Tiny Tibetan colony in here is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The enclosed calm and the spiritual ambiance of the place welcomes all the visitors. The Tibetan Monastery is located around 6 km from Kushalnagar.
This Place is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. There are around 16000 refugees and nearly 6000 monks and nuns in this monastery. This Tibetan settlement at Bail Koppa or Bylakuppe is the the second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet After Chinese took over Tibet the refugees were settled at Bylakuppe near Kushalnagar.
The Monastery was re-established in the year 1972. Young Tibetans seeking enlightenment and education come to this place.
Talakaveri is said that when Shiva and Parvati were getting marries at Kailash Parvat, everyone went there to witness the wedding. As a result, the earth started tilting there. So, Agastya Rishi was sent to South to maintain the balance of the earth. He was reluctant, and said, where will he get Holy Tirtha or Holy water for his daily rituals. Shiva filled the holy water in his Kamandal and said – here take it with you and go. So, Agastya Muni came down south. He sat on the Brahmgiri hill to meditate with his Kamandal carrying the holy tirtha.
In the parallel universe, Indra had to hide himself in a lotus stalk and needed some Holy Tirtha to get back his form and kingdom. Closest Tirtha was in Agastya Muni’s Kamandal. When Indra prayed to Ganesha for help, Ganesha took the form of a crow and sat on Agastya’s Kamandal. When he tried to shoo away the crow, Kamandal tripped and the water flowed. Agastya chased the crow till it took the form of a small boy and the Ganesha. In another story from Skanda Puran, Kaveri is the river incarnation of Lopamudra, the foster daughter of Rishi Kaver. She was married to Agastya Rishi.
Nisargadhama is a breathtakingingly beautiful island off the state highway, two km from Kushalanagar town and 28 km from Madikeri.
Mallalli Falls is situated in the northern region of Kodagu District, Karnataka. The Kumaradhara River is the main watercourse for this waterfall. The Kumaradhara later flows through Kukke Subrahmanya and merges with the Netravati River at Uppinangadi, which then empties into the Arabian Sea at Mangalore.
Distress yourself by trekking over the Brahmagiri peak and take a selfie with the clouds and post it on your Instagram profile. Are you a bird lover and ancient culture freak? If yes, then don't miss out this chance. While trekking explores the various rare and forest birds which are envelope over your head. Also, visit various small villages while on trekking and trend the Kodagu culture. Plan this weekend with your group and get 25% off on your trekking package. Also, check Coorg Homestay base camps at Pushpagiri peak.
Chelvara Falls is a natural waterfall formed by small stream, a tributary of Kaveri River. It drops from a height of about 150 feet into a big pool. The pool has a depth of more than 50 feet. The waterfall is locally known as Embepare, which means tortoise in local Kodava language. The rock over which the water cascades is shaped like a tortoise and hence the name Embepare.
The water fall is really a wonderful site as the water gushes from the rocks amidst the green coffee plantations. The enchanting natural beauty and the tranquility of the place attract tourists and nature lovers. This waterfall is seasonal and it offer wonderful views in rainy season. Entering the water is very dangerous and has proven to be fatal for many over the past few years. The tourists are advised not to get into the water.
The waterfall is close to the motor able road (autos can be hired at Cheyyandane) and needs 10 minutes' walk to reach the falls. Chomakund Hill is another renowned tourist spot which is about 2 km away from the falls. Tourists visiting Chelavara Falls will also visit Chomakund hill. Chomakund is an awesome place surrounding with lush green shrubs and trees and is almost covered in fog most of the time.
Tadiandamol or Thadiyandamol is the highest mountain of Kodagu district, Karnataka, India. It is the third highest peak in Karnataka. It is located Western Ghats range, and reaches an elevation of 1,748 m. The mountain has patches of shola forests in the valleys.
Located in the Hudgur village near Kushalnagar, Harangi dam also makes for an interesting visit. The dam has been built across the tributary of River Cauvery and has a height of 47 meters and length of 846 meters. It is one of the popular picnic spot with mesmerising natural setting and relaxed atmosphere. Located at a distance of approximately 36 km from Madikeri, Harangi dam is the first Dam to have been built across River Cuavery.
The place is comparatively less crowded and thus is perfect for those looking for some seclusion and private time with the nature. Soothing environment with gentle breeze greets as you enter the area around the dam. The best time to visit the dam is during the months of August to September. During this time, the reservoir is completely filled with water creating for a picture perfect setting.
Karnataka India
Chikmagalur is a hill station in Karnataka, a state in southwest India. To the north is