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Places to visit in Karnataka

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Hampi

Hampi is a small city in Karnataka that partly hosts a group of monuments and is declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is dotted with several ruins of temples and historical landmarks belonging to the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi was a part of that empire’s capital, Vijayanagara, back in the 14th century. But its existence is believed to predate even that rule, with its mentions being in the ancient epic, Ramayana. It has been a prime centre of Karnataka tourism in the state since the 1960s, attracting both casual tourists and history enthusiasts from all over the country and the world. It used to be an offbeat tourist attraction due to the lack of proper infrastructure. However, with hundreds of remarkable places to visit in Hampi, it has now become a prominent spot for tourism in the state. 

Since this ancient city emerged as a tourist attraction within Karnataka, it has been a prime spot for sightseeing and motorbikers, who would gather on the Hampi tourist places or hills in the region and host spiritual retreats. During a visit, individuals can learn a lot about the ancient Vijayanagara Empire, everything ranging from culture to architecture. There are tons of places to visit in Hampi, including hundreds of historical monuments, bastions, street markets, etc., belonging to the Vijayanagara Empire. Besides this, tourists can also indulge in a variety of activities during their trip. Some other fun things to do in Hampi include cycling, rock climbing, coracle rides, boating, shopping, etc.

Location

The magnificent town of Hampi is located within the district of Vijayanagara in the state of Karnataka, India. It lies along the banks of the Tungabhadra River, surrounded by valleys and hills near the eastern state border. Hospet City, one of the best places near Hampi to visit, is about 13 kilometres to the southwest of this heritage site. The group of monuments at Hampi is also located within the town. Its official address is Hampi (town), Vijayanagara District, Karnataka, India. As for its distance from other major cities in the state, Hampi is 340 kilometres from Bengaluru, 61 kilometres from Ballari, 168 kilometres from Hubballi and 140 kilometres from Davanagere. 

Language spoken in Hampi 

Kannada, the state’s official language, is predominantly spoken in Hampi and its surrounding region. Apart from this, tourists may also come across individuals speaking other languages, such as Urdu, Telugu and, sometimes, a little bit of Hindi. If tourists are unfamiliar with the local languages, they can try conversing in English with the residents and the tourist-driven local enterprises. Even though it sort of works as the unofficial prime medium for interactions, not everyone may understand it. Hence, it is best to hire a tour guide from the local villages, who will be able to help you convey your thoughts and explain the stories about the ancient attractions in the region.

Known for

A lot of factors are responsible for making Hampi a prominent tourist site within Karnataka. Here’s what the town is famous for:

  • Ancient ruins: The history of Hampi stretches back thousands of years, and most of it is still evident through the remnants of over 500 ancient monuments, treasury buildings, glorious temples, bastions, and other structures. The majority of them date back to the historic Vijayanagara Empire, which it used to be a part of. The intricately carved temples and palaces are examples of the immaculate architectural brilliance of that era and are the main highlights of the place. Examples of tourist attractions and places to visit in Hampi include Virupaksha Temple, Vithala Temple, Lotus Palace, Hampi Bazaar, etc. 
  • Hampi Utsav: The Hampi Utsav, also known as the “Vijaya Festival”, is one of the biggest festivals hosted in the ruined city of Hampi. This historic event has been celebrated since the time of the Vijayanagara Empire and is currently organised by the State Government. It is marked by traditional dance and music events, water sports, exuberant processions, live performances, rangoli competitions, food stalls, and much more. It is a major tourist attraction in the region. 
  • Natural getaway: Nestled amidst the valleys and hills of Karnataka, Hampi acts as a peaceful getaway. Being far from bustling city life, it offers a space where tourists can relax and soak in the beauty of nature alongside picking up on regional history. The Tungabhadra riverside is one of the best Hampi places to visit where tourists can enjoy Coracle rides. The boulders of varying sizes lying across the town are mysterious themselves. One can get a phenomenal view of the surrounding area by climbing on top of the Matanga Hills, which is one of the must-visit Hampi tourist places.

Type of place

The ancient city of Hampi is where history and nature collide in the most beautiful way. It is a place where tourists can not only spend time amidst the serene natural landscapes but also witness and learn about the ancient Vijayanagara Empire through the ruins. From monolithic structures and palaces to elephant stables and ruins of fortified walls, there’s a lot to see in Hampi. The place can also be considered a spiritual getaway, as most of its attractions are religious shrines, like Virupakhsa Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Badavilinga Temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, etc.

How to get to Hampi?

For individuals planning on visiting Hampi in Karnataka for a trip, here are some transport options to consider:

By air

There are a lot of options for tourists planning on visiting Hampi via flight. Even though the temple town doesn’t have an airport of its own, there are several located in close proximity. For example, Bellary Airport is 60 km away, the JSW Vidyanagar Airport in Toranagallu is 40 km away, and the Hubli Airport is 143 km away. However, Bengaluru Airport is the best option in terms of wide connectivity and availability of frequent flights from reputed airlines. Once at the airport, individuals can easily cover the rest of the journey to Hampi via road or take domestic flights from Bengaluru to Hubli or Bellary and then hire a cab to reach the temple town.

By rail

Hampi doesn’t have its own rail connectivity, and the nearest train station to the city of ruins is Hospet Junction (HPT). Even though travelling by rail is a fast and economical option, tourists should know that there are only a few trains that pass through this station. It is advised to book tickets in advance as they get sold out quickly, especially during peak tourism season. Once at the Hospet Junction, individuals can opt for a bus, auto or cab to Hampi and cover the remaining 13 kilometres in less than 30-40 minutes.

By road

Hampi has decent road connectivity, linking the heritage site to major cities in the state as well as the rest of the country. Individuals can drive to the town in their private or rental cars, which makes up for an exciting road trip. Hampi also has its own bus station, located near the Bazaar area. So, individuals can go for intercity or interstate buses to reach the town from places like Bangalore, Hubballi, Pune, Mumbai, etc.

Interesting facts about Hampi 

Hampi is a place full of historical wonders and mysteries. Here are some interesting facts about the ancient town that you should know about:

  • The original name of Hampi was “Pampa-Kshetra''. It was named after Pampa, one of the names of the Hindu Deity Goddess Parvati. On the other hand, the gorgeous Tungabhadra River flowing adjacent to the ancient town was called the Pampa River. It is also believed that Goddess Parvati used to reside within the Hemkunt Hills of Hampi as a Yogini, in order to convince Lord Shiva to marry her. 
  • Despite being popularly associated with the Vijayanagara Empire, the historical roots of Hampi stretch thousands of years. It is also closely linked to the ancient Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to the legends, Hampi is believed to be the land of the monkey kingdom Kiskindha. The Hanuman Temple in North Hampi is among the most popular Hampi places to visit as it is believed that Lord Hanuman used to reside there. 
  • Hampi, under Vijayanagara Empire, was one of the world’s largest international trade centres in the 14th-15th century.  
  • The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi is among the world’s oldest living Hindu temples. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was initially founded in the 7th century and later developed under the Chalukya era. It is one of the most popular Hampi places to visit. 
  • The Vittala Temple in Hampi is an architectural marvel of the bygone era. It houses 56 melodic columns, known as musical pillars or SAREGAMA pillars, which are quite popular among tourists. These pillars generate soothing melodies when tapped lightly. The Vittala Temple is among the top Hampi Karnataka tourist places you can check out. 
  • The Hazara Ram Temple in Hampi houses a number of unique and rare relics. These are believed to be from the era of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama. It is one of the most beautiful places to see in Hampi.
  • Due to the invasions led by Deccan Sultans in 1565, the glorious city of Hampi was left in ruins. However, a number of Hampi places still stand in perfect shape to date and are remarkable records of ancient times.
  • The landscape of Hampi is a mysterious work of nature itself. History, science and mythology have their own explanations behind these formations. 

Why is Hampi recommended? 

Hampi is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Karnataka for individuals interested in history. It is home to hundreds of ancient monuments, most of which are in ruins while others still stand tall in pristine condition. The place not only paints an immaculate picture of the rich regional past but also talks a lot about the architectural brilliance and diverse culture of a glorious empire. Remnants of palaces, royal baths, elephant stables, etc., the site has a lot of interesting things to fuel curious minds. 

Most of the ancient monuments in Hampi are religious shrines, including several Hindu temples, six Jain temples and a Muslim mosque and tomb. The intricate carvings and phenomenal architecture of these monuments are true works of wonder. So, besides history buffs and casual tourists, individuals interested in spiritual tours from the bygone era can also visit Hampi during their Karnataka holidays. Other than Hampi sightseeing, the ancient city is also a great spot for explorations and adventures. If bike riding, rock climbing, Coracle rides, shopping, etc., piques your interest, make sure to spend a day or two in Hampi.

Operating hours 

Hampi, the city of ruins, is perfect for a visit around the year. Generally, the Hampi Archaeological Ruins are open to tourists from 6 AM to 6 PM. Tourists can visit the site any day of the week, however, it should be noted that the attractions within the site may have different operating hours. 

Chart for Hampi 

Name

Operating hours

Ticket Price

Vittala Temple

6 AM to 6 PM

INR 30/- per person (Indian)

INR 500/- per person (Foreigners)

Entry fee free for children (up to age 15)

Virupaksha Temple

Sunrise to Sunset

INR 2/- per person

INR 50/- for a still camera

Archaelogy Museum in Kamalapura

10 AM to 5 PM

INR 5/- per person

Entry fee free for children (up to age 15)

Heritage Museum in Hampi Bazaar

10 AM to 1 PM

3 PM to 6 PM

No entry fee

Queen’s Bath

6 AM to 6 PM

No entry fee

Zenana Enclosure, Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stables

6 AM to 6 PM

Vittala Temple ticket is valid for these locations

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Wonderla

Probably one of the best  amusement parks India has ever produced, Wonderla is the place for fun, frolic and endless hours of fun. With the range of adventurous rides it offers, Wonderla is exciting, challenging and extremely thrilling to be in. Located at around 30 kilometers from Bengaluru, Wonderla is the place flocked by IT professionals, college students, families and groups of friends from around the country. Be it the rides that offer a freefall, rollercoasters, or the more daunting Maverick, the park ensures you have a great time with your close ones.

 

Location:

28th km, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109

For:

Families with kids and groups of friends

Difficulty:

Easy to moderate

Approximate Cost:

There are two types of tickets you can get at Wonderla – fasttrack tickets and regular tickets. While the regular tickets cost approximately Rs. 800 and 1000 for kids and adults respectively, the fasttrack tickets cost approximately Rs. 1800 and 1500 for adults and kids.

Why you should do it?

You can call it the Universal Studios of India thanks to the range of rides and thrills it offers. It is also one of the safest and well maintained amusement parks in India, making Wonderla a must visit attraction in Karnataka.

Tips:

Weekends can become very crowded due to the proximity to Bengaluru. If you are in Karnataka during the weekdays, take a day off for Wonderla and go during the weekdays, when you can access all the rides without having to stand in line for long.

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Bandipur National Park

When you are in Karnataka, you cannot miss the opportunity to witness the wildest of animals roaming majestically in their territories. Nestled between the idyllic Western Ghats, the Bandipur National Park is one of the better managed wildlife parks in the country. It is home to several indigenous species of the mountains and is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Some of the wild animals you can get to see up, close and personal include gaurs, chital, mouse deer, wild dogs, four-horned antelopes, sloth bear, Malabar giant squirrels, jackals and more. Bandipur National Park is also home to commendable number of tigers. The park also offers accommodation amidst the locale for a more adventurous stay amongst the animals.

 

Location:               

Gundlupet, Chamarajanagar District, Bandipur, Karnataka 571126

Known for:

Housing significant number of tigers and indigenous species of Western Ghats. It also houses a 14th century temple of Himavad Gopalaswamy.

How to Reach:

Bandipur can be easily reached from Bengaluru and Mysore. From there you can either rent a cab, take the train or bus depending on your convenience and budget. If you are taking the train, Mysore is the closest railway station and takes around one hour and 30 minutes to teach the reserve park. KSRTC operates buses to Bandipur from Mysore and takes just 2 hours and 30 minutes with tickets approximately costing Rs. 100. Cabs can take you from Mysore and will charge you approximately Rs. 2,500.

Approximate Cost:

The entry to Bandipur National Park costs approximately Rs. 300, which includes entrance fees and safari charges. If you are taking a camera, you have to pay an additional Rs. 200 (approximately) at the counter.

Operating hours:

9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Any Precautions:

 Being a wildlife region, it is best to listen to the instructions the safari guide and have a peaceful trip. Do not wear dark clothing and never throw plastic inside the reserve. You are in their territory as a guest. If possible, turn off the flash and try to capture the place and animals with natural light.

Type: 

Animal Sanctuary

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Meghana Foods

If you are a fan of authentic Andhra cuisine and happen to live in Bengaluru, Meghana foods is a name you've definitely heard. Despite having 5 branches spread all over the city, the taste and quality of their food is consistent and just plain finger-licking delicious. If you plan to travel to Bengaluru, make a trip down to any of the Meghana foods branches and sample their food to understand why this place is a local jewel! 


Highlights of Meghana Foods:

  • Meghana foods has been in business for 13 years. 
  • Their menu is quite extensive with many vegetarian, non vegetarian and seafood dishes served. 
  • Their Indira Nagar restaurant can host a banquet style party for about 150 to 200 people in. 


Recommended for:

The Andhra food chain Meghana foods is perfect for everyone from office goers to college students and families. They cater to anyone who loves eating delicious food made with love. 


About Meghana foods:

Meghana Foods is a restaurant chain that specialises in Andhra cuisine. Apart from that, you will see north-Indian cuisine on their menu as well. It has 5 branches in Bengaluru with plans to expand further in the future. The first restaurant was opened in 2006 in Koramangala. After 10 years of success, they added a centralised kitchen to their business to maintain control over the taste of all their dishes and ensure consistiency, which people love. 

Address : Meghana Foods has five branches in Bengaluru. Here are the addresses and contact numbers of all the 5 restaurants. 

1. Jayanagar : 52, 1st Floor, 33rd Cross, Near Cafe Coffee Day, 4th Block, Jayanagar 080-22448080

  • Bengaluru : 8880609609, 080-22448080

2. Marathahalli : Above Sony Centre, Opposite Park Plaza, Outer Ring Road, Marathahalli 080-41738999

  • Bengaluru : 8880609609, 08041738999

3. Residency Road : 57/1, 1st Floor, Jayalaxmi Chambers, Next to Old Galaxy Theatre, Residency Road 7022902913

Bengaluru : 8880609609, 7022902913

4. Koramangala : 124, 5th Block, Near Jyothi Nivas College, 1st Cross, KHB Colony, Koramangala 080-41463738

  • Bengaluru : 08041463738

5. Indiranagar : 544, First Floor, Near Indiranagar Metro Station, CMH Road, Indiranagar 080-41135050

  • Bengaluru : 080-41135050 

Timings:

All of Meghana Foods branches are open 7 days a week. However, there are timing differences to keep in mind. Here is a schedule for the 5 branches:

  • 1. Jayanagar – 12 pm to 4 pm and 7 pm to 11 pm 
  • 2. Marathahalli – 12 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm
  • 3. Residency Road – 11:30 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm
  • 4. Koramangala – 11:30 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm
  • 5. Indiranagar – 12 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm


Price

The average cost for 2 people is Rupees 600 approximately. Most dishes are around the bracket of Rupees 200 to Rupees 300. For seafood, the prices start from Rupees 300. 

Dying to sink your teeth into something delicious? Explore our travel packages to Bengaluru and head down to Meghana Foods for a feast!  

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Nandi Hills

For those who come to Karnataka, or especially Benguluru, their trips are never complete without a visit to the gorgeous Nandi Hills. Located at a convenient distance of approximately 65 kilometers from Bengaluru, the Nandi Hills is a place every Karnataka tourism guide will recommend you. Known for its picturesque setting and stunning views, the hill stands overseeing the city, offering a chance for tourists to soar up the clouds. It has an elevation o approximately 1,500 meters and can give you shivers when you reach the top. The views, the small parks and the restaurants on top make it a perfect place for family and friends get together.

 

Known for:

Its unparalleled views of sunrise. Visitor start from their places as early as 2:00 AM in the morning to see the sun peacefully rising from the horizons sipping a cup of coffee. Your profile pictures for the next six months can be from Nandi Hills.

How to Reach:

Though there are direct buses from Bengaluru to Nandi Hills and frequently, you cannot witness the sunrise from the mountains. For best views and shivers, rent a two wheeler or a self-drive vehicle from your place and reach within a couple of hours. You can rent two wheelers starting from approximately Rs. 500 and self-drive vehicle depending on their pricing. Cabs from Bengaluru will cost you approximately Rs. 2,500 for one way and can increase depending on the size of the car.

Approximate Cost

The cost to enter Nandi Hills is approximately Rs. 5. If you are taking a vehicle, parking charges do apply.

Operating Hours

6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Any Precautions

Carry sweaters or pullovers when you are going there to witness the sunrise. It gets really cold out there in the mornings. After 8:00 AM, when the sun comes out, the temperatures become normal. But to survive the temporary frost, carry heavy clothing. Also, start early if you want to avoid the crowd in the morning. The place is really crowded during the weekends.

Type

Landmark

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Mysore Palace

Grand, majestic and out of the world are the three words that best describe this amazing architecture and palace belonging to the Wadiyar dynasty. During Dusherra, the gorgeousness of the palace multiplies manifold and leaves you in awe of the intricate architecture, carvings, paintings and just the finesse of workmanship. It is one of the best things to do in Karnataka and if you are visiting Mysore, you cannot leave back without coming to the Mysore Palace. The best part about the palace is its innumerable measures for tourists.

There are battery operated vehicles that take tourists around the palace, free wheel chair facilities, restrooms, Braille guide, and other conveniences that allow visitors to understand and cherish the palace better. If you want to get to know how the royals lived and about their everyday life, Mysore Palace is the place you need to head to.

 

Known for

Marvelous architecture, illumination during the festival and a source of information of the heritage of Karnataka

How to Reach

Located at a prime location in Mysore, you can reach the palace via buses and local autos or cabs. It takes less than 10 minutes from the city center to reach the palace and can cost you approximately Rs. 100 if you are taking an auto or a cab. If you are taking a bus, the price can be approximately Rs. 15 per person.

Approximate Cost

Approximately Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 30 for kids. You can book your tickets online from the official website of the palace.

Opening Hours:

10:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Any Precautions:

Since it is really crowded on all days, the only thing you need to be careful about is your belongings. Also take care of your kids and do not leave them alone. Visitors are not allowed inside the palace during the festival. The place is well illuminated in the evenings and there are light and sound shows happening every day. Stay back and enjoy.

Type: 

Monument

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Sakleshpur

A pristine land clad in sheer serenity, Sakleshpur is a hill station that lies in the lap of the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Filled with abundant coffee, tea, and spice plantations; Sakleshpur gives you an experience of a lifetime amidst all the blissful aromas. It boasts many historical monuments and temples that make it the perfect destination for all the art and architecture lovers. Hushed away from the eyes of the travellers, this place is a heaven on Earth that you must definitely visit. Apart from getting a glimpse of nature, you can also use this time to feel at peace with your loved ones. Right from the waterfalls to the viewpoints, Sakleshpur is a place that you ought to visit to experience the best of Karnataka during winters!

 

Location

It is located in the Western Ghats that stretch from Kerala to Gujarat. This is in the southern part of the Ghats in the state of Karnataka.

Address: Sakleshpur, Malenadu, Hassan, Karnataka 573134

Hours: It is open 24/7

 

Timings

The monsoons are the best time to visit this place. However, there would be a lot of rains, and hence it is advised to visit during the winters when the weather would be pleasant to experience the place.

 

Places to visit in Sakleshpur

 

Name of the place

Distance from city centre

Approximate cost 

Manjarabad Fort

5-6 km approximately

INR 5-10 for Indians and INR 100-110 for foreigners

Sakaleswara Temple

3-4 km approximately

No entry fee

Bisle ViewPoint

28-29 km approximately

No entry fee

 

Manjarabad Fort: Built by the famous Mysore ruler, Tipu Sultan, the Manjarabad Fort is an important historical construction that you need to visit at any cost. It is made in the shape of a star and was built to set up a protective area. 

Sakaleswara Temple: Dating back to more than 600 years, the Sakaleswara temple is a dedication to Lord Shiva. This temple was built by the Hoysala Dynasty and is one of the most historic places to visit in Sakleshpur.

Bisle View Point: The Bisle viewpoint offers stunning views of the lush rainforests in Sakleshpur. It is believed to be the most glorifying viewpoint that gives a mesmerising look of the stunning flora and fauna of Sakleshpur.

 

Highlights

  • Facilitates bird watching in and around the areas of Sakleshpur that are known for the most diverse flora and fauna
  • Perfect place to go for a small trek and enjoy the glimpses of nature
  • It also has some gorgeous waterfalls that are sure to attract your attention
  • It features Manjarabad Fort that is constructed by the historic Tippu Sultan; this fort is shaped in the form of a star.
  • The Kukke Subrahmanya Temple in Sakleshpur is believed to be the abode of Lord Subramanyeshwara.
  • It boasts the second highest peak in Karnataka which is named as Jenukal Gudda which means Honey-stone mountain.

 

Recommended for

This fantastic hill station is recommended for everyone who wants to escape from the scorching heats of Southern India. The temperatures of this place are always maintained at a moderate level and are the best to enjoy a relaxed and laid-back vacation.

 

How to get to Sakleshpur

By Air: There are direct flights from Bangalore to Sakleshpur. Each flight’s duration is about 1 hour, and you can also pre-book cabs to reach your destinations in Sakleshpur. Apart from Bangalore, the Mangalore airport is the closest to Sakleshpur.

By Rail: It takes 3 hours to travel on the train from Bangalore to Sakleshpur. There are regular trains that run from the city to Sakleshpur.

By Road: You can either opt for a bus ride or a car ride from Bangalore to Sakleshpur. There are regular bus services from Bangalore to Sakleshpur that would help you reach the destination. Apart from buses, you can also hire a cab or can drive a rented car on your own.

Nevertheless, the ideal way to reach Sakleshpur is by road to experience the lush greenery and the fantastic roads that fall along the way. If you want to reach quickly, then flights are the best options.

 

About Sakleshpur

Located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, Sakleshpur is a quaint yet decent hill station in the Southern part of India. This beautiful town is a perfect destination to disconnect from the city and reconnect with nature. Home to various kinds of vegetations, Sakleshpur boasts a wide range of lush green plantations that are a treat to watch. This area receives a significant amount of rainfall owing to its temperate climate. Due to these favourable conditions, there is ample scope for exotic plantations like tea, coffee, cardamom, and pepper. Hence, undoubtedly, this region stands at the production of about one-third of the cardamom plantation in India. 

Primarily located in the Western Ghats that stretch from Kerala to Gujarat, this southern part of the range is home for the Bisle reserve forest and the places around Sakleshpur are listed to the most indifferent spots concerning flora and fauna throughout the world. People in the area of Sakleshpur believe that a broken Shivalinga was found in the town which was called as Sakaleshwara. Based on this Shivalinga, they built a temple at the entrance of the city which was named as Sakaleshapura, which eventually turned out to be Sakleshpur.

Sakaleshpur is most famous among the tourists for trekking and various picnic spots that attract people from across the world. Apart from this, there are many mountains and various religious and historical sites that are a perfect place to experience true art and culture of the country.

 

Interesting facts about Sakleshpur

  • It is known to be the home for one of the Shivlingas in the country.
  • One of the most stunning spots to view the lush green rainforests.
  • The south-west monsoons hit this place at the earliest, giving them abundant and quick monsoon every year.
  • Wide variation in flora and fauna in the city
  • Attracts a lot of people within the country and abroad due to its solitude and perfect weather that helps you relax.

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Dandeli

Dandeli is a fascinating and adventurous city situated on the Western Ghats in Uttarakhand popular for its lush dense deciduous forests, deep valleys, wildlife sanctuaries, bird watching, water sports, river side fishing, trekking on hilly terrains, mountain biking, night camps and scenic beauty. It is a mélange of astounding nature and exhilarating adventure that allures vacationers, making it a top tourist destination.

The best season to visit Dandeli is between October to May when the climate is pleasant for the water and other activities and also to spot the animals. Monsoons is best avoided due to heavy rainfalls making it unsuitable to enjoy the spots.

Location

https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Dandeli,+Uttarakhand+249146/@30.3126298,78.4664002,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x39091cb4d34f487b:0xefc1d674ac6a9a54!8m2!3d30.3117573!4d78.4766152

 

Some of the prime attractions are:

1.Kavala Caves - The exotic limestone Kavala caves is visited by tourists and especially by devotees of Lord Shiva to see an incredible creation of shivlinga formed by the volcanic activities. The cave is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites and to visit the inner sanctum one has to descend down 375 steps and carry a torch as the cave is pitch dark.

Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Daily.

2.Shiroli Peak – The highest peak in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, it offers a glorious view of the Western ghat’s Sahyadri range, picturesque sunset and is a good route for trekking as well. An ideal spot for nature and adventure seekers.

3.River Kali – River Kali offers a myriad of water activities, attracting majority of the adventure enthusiasts to Dandeli. Mercurial in nature, it caters to the excitement for both amateurs and professionals. White water rafting in Kali river is an enthralling experience of rafting through grade 2, 3 and 4 rapids over a 9 kilometer run under the supervision of an expert. Besides rafting, kayaking and canoeing are other activities that one can indulge in. Coracle boat riding, a saucer-shaped ‘boat’ made of bamboo and tanned buffalo hide is a beguiling experience to watch crocodiles in the water, and hornbills hovering in the sky. Moonlight boating is another activity for nature lovers to ride at night with night vision binoculars to see the nocturnal animals in the surrounding jungle which is home to deers and boars amongst others.

4.Kayaking - Kayaking activities are conducted in the Supa reservoir, which is a man-made reservoir that spreads over a huge area surrounded by teak plantations. There are small islets in between where one can camp in absolute privacy since the entire area is uninhabited.

5.Canyoning-  Canyoning is a variant form of rappelling conducted in the Sathkonda Canyon near Dandeli. A challenging activity, it is the current rage and an adrenaline pumping experience of rappelling down steep rocks under the gushing waterfall (safety harness attached) using a combination of jumping, abseiling and natural water slides.

6.Rappelling -  Climb the steepest rocky cliffs of Sahyadri mountains and careen down suspended on a rope. A thrilling activity conducted under the supervision of an expert, it is a must.

7.Wildlife Sanctuary – In an area of 834.16 sq km, it is second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka and was declared as one in 1956. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary offers a plethora of excitement for nature lovers and adventurers:

8.Flora - The entire forest area is covered with thick vegetation punctuated with bamboo and teak plants.

9.Fauna- Visitors are likely to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Malabar giant squirrels, barking deers, elephants, bisons, black panthers, Indian pangolin, Indian jackal, etc.

10.Birds – A haven for bird watchers, it is a thrill to see pied hornbills, bar winged flycatcher shrikes, crested serpent eagle, pompadour green pigeons, kingfisher, woodpecker, cuckoo, blue headed ground thrush, yellow browed bulbuls and many more.

11.Jungle Safari and Trekking – Explore the vast sanctuary in an open jeep safari, trekking on foot or mountain biking and feel the rush of spotting the wildlife amidst the lush green forest.

12.Camping – Indulge in overnight and outdoor camping for a different experience. Sync with nature as you camp at the banks of river Kali under the stars and with a spectacular view of the resident birds hovering in the sky.

 

Highlights

  • Dandeli is an ideal destination for engaging in myriad of water sports such as white water rafting, kayaking, canoeing, coracle boat riding etc.
  • Bathe in the river Kali’s rapid’s that provide an effect of a natural Jacuzzi bath.
  • The Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers as it’s a residence for diverse range of bird species especially the Malabar Pied Hornbill.
  • It offers an exciting opportunity to sync in with nature by camping amidst the luxurious verdant forests and wildlife.
  • The Syntheri Rocks close to the Ulavi temple is a must visit site to witness a massive structure of imposing rocks made of granite. A sheer breathtaking sight to behold.
  • The Shivaji fort 22km away from Dandeli warrants a visit. Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji, it boasts of ingenious warring techniques and strategies implemented by the warriors to win wars and protect the fort.
  • Skyes point – 23 km from Dandeli, is famous for the spellbinding views of river Kali and lush green topography during the mesmerizing sunset.

 

 

Recommended For

An ideal retreat for an exciting adventure packed holiday amidst lush evergreen nature.

 

How to get to Dandeli

Flight: The nearest airport is Belgaum Airport, Karnataka about a distance of 90 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to Dandeli.

Train: The closest station is Alnaver railway station at a distance of 35 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to Dandeli

Road: Dandeli is well connected to major cities of India and several private and state buses ply to to the city. Private car and taxi can also be hired.

 

Interesting Facts About Dandeli.

A local legend states that the city is named after Dandelappa, a local deity, a servant of the Mirashi landlords, who lost his life because of his loyalty. An alternative legend states that a king named Dandakanayaka passed through the forests and named them after himself, and the city is believed to stand on the place where Dandakaranya stood when he named the area.

 

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Wonderla

Probably one of the best  amusement parks India has ever produced, Wonderla is the place for fun, frolic and endless hours of fun. With the range of adventurous rides it offers, Wonderla is exciting, challenging and extremely thrilling to be in. Located at around 30 kilometers from Bengaluru, Wonderla is the place flocked by IT professionals, college students, families and groups of friends from around the country. Be it the rides that offer a freefall, rollercoasters, or the more daunting Maverick, the park ensures you have a great time with your close ones.

 

Location:

28th km, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109

For:

Families with kids and groups of friends

Difficulty:

Easy to moderate

Approximate Cost:

There are two types of tickets you can get at Wonderla – fasttrack tickets and regular tickets. While the regular tickets cost approximately Rs. 800 and 1000 for kids and adults respectively, the fasttrack tickets cost approximately Rs. 1800 and 1500 for adults and kids.

Why you should do it?

You can call it the Universal Studios of India thanks to the range of rides and thrills it offers. It is also one of the safest and well maintained amusement parks in India, making Wonderla a must visit attraction in Karnataka.

Tips:

Weekends can become very crowded due to the proximity to Bengaluru. If you are in Karnataka during the weekdays, take a day off for Wonderla and go during the weekdays, when you can access all the rides without having to stand in line for long.

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Meghana Foods

If you are a fan of authentic Andhra cuisine and happen to live in Bengaluru, Meghana foods is a name you've definitely heard. Despite having 5 branches spread all over the city, the taste and quality of their food is consistent and just plain finger-licking delicious. If you plan to travel to Bengaluru, make a trip down to any of the Meghana foods branches and sample their food to understand why this place is a local jewel! 


Highlights of Meghana Foods:

  • Meghana foods has been in business for 13 years. 
  • Their menu is quite extensive with many vegetarian, non vegetarian and seafood dishes served. 
  • Their Indira Nagar restaurant can host a banquet style party for about 150 to 200 people in. 


Recommended for:

The Andhra food chain Meghana foods is perfect for everyone from office goers to college students and families. They cater to anyone who loves eating delicious food made with love. 


About Meghana foods:

Meghana Foods is a restaurant chain that specialises in Andhra cuisine. Apart from that, you will see north-Indian cuisine on their menu as well. It has 5 branches in Bengaluru with plans to expand further in the future. The first restaurant was opened in 2006 in Koramangala. After 10 years of success, they added a centralised kitchen to their business to maintain control over the taste of all their dishes and ensure consistiency, which people love. 

Address : Meghana Foods has five branches in Bengaluru. Here are the addresses and contact numbers of all the 5 restaurants. 

1. Jayanagar : 52, 1st Floor, 33rd Cross, Near Cafe Coffee Day, 4th Block, Jayanagar 080-22448080

  • Bengaluru : 8880609609, 080-22448080

2. Marathahalli : Above Sony Centre, Opposite Park Plaza, Outer Ring Road, Marathahalli 080-41738999

  • Bengaluru : 8880609609, 08041738999

3. Residency Road : 57/1, 1st Floor, Jayalaxmi Chambers, Next to Old Galaxy Theatre, Residency Road 7022902913

Bengaluru : 8880609609, 7022902913

4. Koramangala : 124, 5th Block, Near Jyothi Nivas College, 1st Cross, KHB Colony, Koramangala 080-41463738

  • Bengaluru : 08041463738

5. Indiranagar : 544, First Floor, Near Indiranagar Metro Station, CMH Road, Indiranagar 080-41135050

  • Bengaluru : 080-41135050 

Timings:

All of Meghana Foods branches are open 7 days a week. However, there are timing differences to keep in mind. Here is a schedule for the 5 branches:

  • 1. Jayanagar – 12 pm to 4 pm and 7 pm to 11 pm 
  • 2. Marathahalli – 12 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm
  • 3. Residency Road – 11:30 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm
  • 4. Koramangala – 11:30 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm
  • 5. Indiranagar – 12 pm to 4 pm and 6:30 pm to 11 pm


Price

The average cost for 2 people is Rupees 600 approximately. Most dishes are around the bracket of Rupees 200 to Rupees 300. For seafood, the prices start from Rupees 300. 

Dying to sink your teeth into something delicious? Explore our travel packages to Bengaluru and head down to Meghana Foods for a feast!  

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