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Things to Do in Shimoga

The best things to do in Shimoga range from downright adrenalizing to profoundly religious. Shimoga, nestled in the Sahyadris, is an abstract canvas painted by the deep browns of the surrounding mountain ranges, the azure of the high skies, the periwinkle of the limpid waters and the happy colours of flocks of birds decorating the skyline.

Shimoga is most popular as a serene trekking and hiking destination. Adventure tourists from across India, come here to enjoy the weekend. Infact, Shimoga is an ideal weekend locale close to the city of Bangalore and Bangalore Adventure Club often organises trekking and camping trips to Shimoga. The Kodachadri Peak is a fulfilling trek that offers a panoramic view of the beautiful district. In addition, Shimoga is home to the famed Jog Falls, which is truly a sight to behold.

However, Shimoga is not all nature. The grand Keladi Temple near Honnemardu, the nearby museum and Nagara Fort, together narrate Shimoga rich history through art and architecture.  

A few miles from Shimoga is the town of Honnemardu, which is a world by itself. Known best for its water-sports, Honnemardu is also a birding-friendly location. It is also frequented by trekkers and hikers alike.

Shimoga is also blessed with luxurious flora and fauna. It has sanctuaries for tigers and lions in addition to conservatory parks for migratory birds. You can spot a sloth bear in the forests of Shettihalli, while here.

The cuisine of Shimoga has a distinct flavour of its own. While it is typical Kannada food, it has a touch of its own. Do not forget to taste the mango pickle of Midigayi Uppinakai and Avalakki, which is ground rice. There is a dessert special to Shimoga and it’s called Halasina Hannina Kadubu. Genesale is another delicacy if you have a sweet tooth.

Finally, the village of Heggodu has a personality of its own. Witness a tribal dance performance and see a local play on your visit here, which should make it to your list of best things to do in Shimoga!

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What are the best things to do in Shimoga

Below mentioned are some of the best things to do when in Shimoga:

  • Trekking

Hike up the contours of the Western ghats while in Shimoga. Trek your way up to the Kodachadri Peak and enjoy the scenery, replete with several waterfalls among misty green valleys.

  • Jog Falls

One of the highlights of your Shimoga trip is going to be a visit to the resounding Jog Falls. While the fall is at its lushest during monsoon, it splits up into four cascades of Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer at other times of the year.

  • Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary

Take a thrilling safari through the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, teeming with various species of birds and home to the sloth bear, leopard, tiger and elephant.

  • Keladi

Lose yourself in the grand architecture of Keladi, especially if you are a history buff or a religious person. The monument is an example of Dravidian and Hoyasala architecture. The temple inside is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

  • Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

Engage in some birdwatching at the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, which conserves populations of birds in their natural habitat. The place is chirping with the sounds of Median Egrets, Darter, Snakebird and Little Cormorant.

  • Honnemaradu

Honnemaradu is an ideal site for a plethora of watersports. It is a quaint village located in the neighbourhood of the Sharavathi River backwaters.

  • Nagara Fort

Explore the ruins of Nagara fort, which still houses relics from the 16th Century.

  • Gajanur Dam

Pack a picnic and head to Gajanur Dam, constructed on River Tunga. You can enjoy an idyllic boat ride while here.

What are the adventure activities to in Shimoga?

Nestled in the lap of the Sahyadris, Shimoga combines the best of mountain and river based adventure activities. Some of these are:
  • Trekking

With its close proximity to the Ghats, Shimoga is an ideal trekking and hiking destination. A trek up to the Kodachadri Peak can be deeply fulfilling. The venue offers a stunning view of Shimoga, adorned with streams, waterfalls and lush greenery. In addition, you can even trek your way to Jog Falls. Some people also enjoy Honnemardu as a hiking destination.

  • Water Sports

Honnemardu offers a host of water sports. These include canoeing, kayaking, coracle rides, windsurfing and kayaking.

  • Elephant Camp

Sakrebailu Elephant Camp is located 15 kms from Shimoga. Watch elephants play around and enjoy a decadent mud-bath while here.

Which are the best destinations for wildlife safari experience in Shimoga?

The best destinations for wildlife safari experience is mentioned below:

  • Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary 

Home to the tiger, leopard and sloth bear, a safari through this park can be a worthwhile experience.

  • Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari

If you are a lover of big cats, a trip here is a must. The forest is sprawling with 200 hectares of land traversed by majestic lions, tigers, sloth bears, deer and leopards. The jeep safari is organised by the forest department.

  • Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

A visit here is a must if you have an interest in birding and birdwatching. It is also a heaven for photographers as it’s replete with picturesque views of the surrounding greenery and waters. Find exotic species of birds such as Median Egrets, Snakebird and Darter, at this conservation park.

Which are some famous campsites near Shimoga?

Famous campsites near Shimoga include:

  • Kodachadri

The Bangalore Adventure Club frequently hosts camping and trekking trips to the unspoiled gem of Kodachadri.

  • Kundadri Peak

Kundadri is located 80 km from Shimoga and is known for its untainted beauty. One of the highlights of camping here is a visit to Jain Temple and the Sharavathi backwaters.

  • Honnemardu

This village, with a splendid view of the ghats and the nearby river, is an ideal destination for camping.

Which are the most adventurous places for trekking in Shimoga?

The most adventurous places for trekking in Shimoga include: Kodachadri Peak, Jog Falls, Honnemardu, Nagara Fort, Kundadri Peak and also the sanctuaries of Shettihalli and Mandagadde.  

Where can I do birding in Shimoga? What are its famous destinations?

The ecosystem of Shimoga is rich in a diversity of bird species. Some of the best destinations for birding here are:

  • Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

Located across the Tunga river, is the scenic Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary. Home to Median Egrets, Pied Kingfisher, Night herons and Open-bill Stork, this sanctuary is a laudable conservatory effort for birds especially migratory avians.

  • Maidaan, Agumbe

Another vast area conducive to bird watching is the Maidan in Agumbe. Find yourself in a pandemonium of chirpy sounds made by the Malabar Hornbill, shrieks and lapwings, while here.

  • Lakkawalli

A little further from Shimoga, Lakkavalli is a bird-lover’s paradise. Alive with the sounds and hues of river terns, spot-billed ducks and the white-breasted kingfisher, Lakkavalli boasts an eclectic mix of birdlife.

In addition, Honnemardu is also a bird-watching delight.

Where can I enjoy Kayaking in Shimoga? What are its charges?

The best spot for kayaking in Shimoga, is Honnemardu, hands down. Jog Falls is another popular destination for kayaking here. It can cost you anywhere between Rs. 500-1500/person. It is advisable to take a kayaking lesson before you set sail.

Which are the best locations for rafting in Shimoga? What is the best time for it?

Below mentioned are the best locations for rafting in Shimoga:

  •    Sita Nadi

Flowing through the dense greenery, River Sita is an ideal spot for white water rafting in Shimoga. In fact, it offers the best rafting experience in South India. Located in Agumbe, an area known as Cherrapunji of the South, Sita Nadi receives abundant rainfall and its waters are conducive to rafting.

  •    Honnemardu

Located on the backwaters of River Sharavathi, Honnemardu is another popular tourist spot for watersports including river rafting.The best time for rafting is during monsoon, ie from June to October, when there is plenty of rain.

 

How far is Honnemardu village from Shimoga? What are the things I can do there in Honnemardu village?

Honnemardu is a tiny hamlet, located along River Sharavati. It is about 100 Km from Shimoga district.

The area is an adventure haven. It offers various options of thrilling activities such as trekking, camping and hiking. In addition, it is also an offbeat bird-watching spot, not known to many. Honnemardu is most famous for its wide range of water sports. These include kayaking, canoeing, rafting, wind surfing, joy fishing and swimming. The nearby Ikkeri town here has a beautiful Shiva mandir. Keladi, which is known for its 16th century architecture is also nearby.

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Shimoga Things To Do Reviews

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Ram Charan
Reviewed: 24 Dec 2019
5.0/5
It was an impulsive decision which turned out to be an exhilarating experience. I was planning to go on a trek from long back but could not get a chance. But with Thrillophillia, it was made into reality. I was a part of the trekking group which visited Kodachadri on 20/12/2019 which turned out to ... Read More
Ram Charan
Ram Charan
Ram Charan
Ram Charan
Ram Charan
Ram Charan
(5+)View All
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Ganesh Bhat
Reviewed: 04 Dec 2019
5.0/5
"Fantastic experience , trek to kodachadri is one of the greatest experience for each one of our group. most of the people from our group was first time trekkers though the Mountains were tough to climb host Kiran and dixit kept us motivated. took very good care of us. we were group of 8 members who... Read More
Ganesh bhat
Ganesh bhat
Ganesh bhat
Ganesh bhat
Ganesh bhat
Ganesh bhat
(3+)View All
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Anjana Shashidharan
Reviewed: 25 Nov 2019
5.0/5
Trek to Kodachadri is one of the best experiences in my life. Killer view, challenging terrain and amazing trails. The sunset and hidlumane waterfalls are to die for. Our trek was organised well and I am really thankful to Jay Prakash and Rahil ( our trek leads as well) for the constant help, for ke... Read More
Anjana Shashidharan
Anjana Shashidharan
Anjana Shashidharan
Anjana Shashidharan
Anjana Shashidharan
Anjana Shashidharan
(1+)View All
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Rajesh
Reviewed: 31 Dec 2018
4.0/5
1)Best trek to do in Karnataka. 2)Trek level- moderate 3)Total distance is 12kms 4) Hidlumane falls en-route is extremely beautiful and great to have a bath. 5)First half of trek is tough.Second half is easy. 6) The peak is really beautiful and mesmerizing. 8)There is jeep facility available w... Read More
Rajesh
Rajesh
Rajesh
Rajesh
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Jai Pandey
Reviewed: 14 Mar 2020
5.0/5
We had climbed other peaks of Karnataka as well but this Kodachadri Trek was best till date, as the views in this trekking are incomparable to any other trek here. The waterfall and the lush greenery makes it more amazing to go for.
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Chandrakin Varma
Reviewed: 08 Mar 2020
5.0/5
I visited there with my cousins and we had such a thrilling experience there. We bonded a lot during this trekking and had taken a lot of pictures throughout the trek. The view from the summit is breathtaking and Thrillophilia organized it very well.

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