Anegundi- Cradle Of The Glorious Krishnadevaraya Empire

One of the oldest villages in Karnataka, Anegundi is a village older than the town of Hampi, a settlement that dates back to the erstwhile Chalukyas and Nayaka kings. Anegundi is located at the Northern banks of the Tungabadra river. The word Anegundi means 'Elephant Pit in Kannada' and is believed to be the place where elephants of the Vijayanagara kings were placed, opposite the majestic Capital of the Vijayanagara empire. According to popular legend, this settlement is also the monkey kingdom of Kishkindha, or the forest where numerous monkeys reside, in the revered Ramayana epic. Other places of interest are the Anjanadri Hill, birthplace of Hanuman, the monkey-god and the mountain Rishimuka, also an important part of the Ramayana. Anegundi is home to one of the oldest plateaus on the planet, estimated to be over 3,000 million years old.

Adding to its historical significance is that Anegundi is also the cradle of the glorious krishnadevaraya dynasty, most famous ruler of the Vijayanagara age. One can visit Anegundi via flight, road or rail. Visitors can fly to Lellary-Torangally from Bangalore and drive to Anegundi. Tourists can also avail state transport buses from Gadag and Hospet to Anegundi.

The closest railway station is Hospet, about 18 kilometres from Anegundi where tourists from Bangalore, Hubli and Bijapur can alight. Anegundi requires tourists to alight at Hospet, drive to Talawarghatta and cross the Tungabadra river on a coracle.

The best time to visit Anegundi is between October and March. Some of the popular tourist destinations in this village are as follows.

Anegundi Fort

Attraction: Battle station of the Vijayanagara empire The fort has many gates, with a Durga temple at the entrance to one of the gates. The Anegundi fort also houses tombs holding the royal family, courtiers, soldiers and other important members of the King's court. One can also visit the famous Ganesha cave temple.
It is believed that the Vijayanagara Kings and soldiers used to pray at the Ganesha temple before every battle. One can also visit the Pampa Sarovar and the Lakshmi temple. Descendants of the royal Vijayanagra empire still reside in the village of Anegundi, close to this fort.

Navabrindavana

Attraction: Island, housing the tombs of the Madhava saints Located at the Tungabhadra River, in close proximity to Anegundi in the Koppal District of Karnataka, Navabrindavana is famous for the nine Brindavanas or tombs of the nine famous Madhva saints, including that of venerable Vyasatirtha.
	Tourists can reach Navabrindavana on a coracle from Anegundi by crossing the River Tungabhadra. Nimvapuram is a village located close to the Island and is believed to have the cremated remains of the monkey King Bali.

The Archaeological Museum

Attraction: Sculptures and artefacts from the Vijayanagara dynasty This museum, like other edifices in Karnataka houses a collection of finely carved sculptures and artefacts from the ruins of the Vijayanagara palaces, forts and temples and houses neolithic tools, sixteenth century weaponry and a large floor model of the of the Vijayanagar ruins.

Hanuman Temple

Attraction: A unique temple dedicated to the Lord of monkeys, Hanuman Perched on top of the prominent Anjanadri Hill, the Hanuman temple is a sacred structure dedicated to the monkey God Hanuman. One can witness fine architecture and carvings depicting scenes from the life of the Lord of monkeys. Visit Anegundi for an enriching and fun-filled vacation with friends and family.

Bidar- The Land Of Unique Handcrafted Bidri Art And Persian Grandeur

Located on the Deccan Plateau, Bidar is situated in the North-East region of Karnataka. Famous for monuments and temples, Bidar rivals the North in architectural beauty and splendour. This city is best known for historical monuments dating back to the Bahmani era. This historical city also has temples, Masjids and monuments from an array of Kingdoms and ruling emperors including the Adil Shahi, Pre-Kaktiya, Bahamani, Tughlaq, Nizam and  Mughal periods. This city is popular for fusion architecture where Hindu, Turkish and Persian craftsmen have created architectural marvels with elements of different architectural styles to offer visitors breathtaking structures, exclusive to the city. Bidar offers tourists and pilgrims ample proof of its rulers' architectural prowess.

One can reach this destination via road, rail or air with the nearest airport at Hyderabad. Karnataka state transport offers buses that ply from major cities in the state to Bidar. Those travelling by train can alight at Hyderabad, which also has the closest railway station. Outlined below are important tourist destinations in Bidar.

Bidar Fort Attraction: Battle-station and an aesthetic structure Bidar Fort is one of the most formidable and robust forts in the country. Built on the brink of the Deccan plateau, the fort served as a battle-station for warriors protecting the city. Bidar fort has five gateways for entry into the fort. Reliable historical sources reveal that several  engineers and eminent architects were employed to design and build the fort.

Bahamani Tombs

Attraction: Mausoleums at Ashtoor

Tourists travelling to Bidar must visit the famous Bahamani tombs, huge sepulchres and mausoleums located at Ashtoor, about 4 kilometres east of Bidar.  These are grand structures built in honour of the departed rulers and warriors of yesteryear, to honour their years in service or as a ruler.  There are twelve tombs placed in a row making for an impressive sight. These are massive structures with grand arches, lofty domes and niches. The interior of these monuments is well decorated with beautiful paintings.

Jharani Narasimha Cave Temple

Attraction: Temple with a canal One of the ancient Hindy temples, this cave temple is dedicated to the revered Lord Narasimha. The temple has been excavated in a tunnel, an architectural marvel and a rare structure in all of India. According to legend, the Lord Vishnu slew the giant Jharasura after destroying Hiranyakashyap. To visit the deity, one must wade through a canal that is 91 meters long, with a continuous water flow, a depth of about 1.4 meters. The temple attracts devotees from all over the world.

Solah Khamb Mosque

Attraction: Largest mosque in India This mosque is the largest in the country with magnificent columns, domes and arches. Also called the Zanana Masjid, this edifice is located in the Zanana enclosure of Bidar. It is supported by 16 grand pillars in the front, making for a beautifully designed structure.

 Papnas Temple

Attraction: Holy pilgrim centre housing a large cistern

Papanash is Kannada signifies the annihilation of all sins and evil. This temple is a popular pilgrim spot, built to destroy evil in the South. At its foot is a cistern measuring 16 feet by 14 feet, fed by a natural spring throughout the day. To the North of the temple is a small tank, believed to be in existence since the Ramayana times.

Bidri Ware

Attraction: Rare art form in Bidar Bidri ware is an integral part of the Bidar Heritage. This signifies a special style of work called "Damascending"in Silver. This fantastic art form was developed in Bidar, after its introduction to the city from Iran around 1422 AD. The art involves a sharp contrast between a black oxidized background and lustrous silver carving in-laid to lend a rare beauty to Bidri Ware. Articles traditionally crafted using this art form include hookahs, water jugs, candle sticks, wash basins, crockery, dishes, cosmetic boxes and flower vases.

Entry Fee :

No entry fee.

Visit Bidar for a wonderful trip filled with fun and frolic with your family and friends. 

Gadag- Witness Exquisite Architecture Steeped In Spellbinding History At Gadag

Gadag- Witness Exquisite Architecture Steeped In Spellbinding History At Gadag

This idyllic temple city is dotted with exquisite monuments and temples showcasing the grandeur of the age of the Chalukyas. The temples in the city were built between the eleventh and twelfth centuries during the Kalyani-Chalukya period. Gadag is famous as a Jain stronghold. Among the many revered temples are the two most important structures that draw thousands of pilgrims every year - The Jain temples dedicated to Mahaveera and Parshvanatha Thirthankara. One can visit Gadag by road or rail. Visitors to Gadag can avail Karnataka state transport buses or take the train from Bangalore, Hospet and Hubli to the Gadag railway station.

 Some of the popular tourist destinations in and around Gadag are as follows. 

Trikuteshwara temple complex

Attraction: Architectural finesse of the Chalukya reign

Bearing witness to the grandeur and grace of Chalukya architecture, The Trikuteshwara temple is a marvellous structure dedicated to the Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning and knowledge. This temple was built between the sixth and eighth century by the Chalukyas and is known all over the South for its beauty and majesty.

Veeranarayana Temple

Attraction: Holy Pilgrimage centre

This temple draws thousands of devotees from all over the country. Built in the early eleventh century, the temple also has a Matha founded by the Saint Tontada Siddalingeshwar Swamiji who was an accomplished Yogi. The Matha was built in the twelfth century.

Jumma Masjid

Attraction: Exquisite Islamic monument

The Jumma Masjid is a finely constructed monument where over six hundred Muslim devotees can offer prayers to the Lord. The masjid was built during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries when Gadag was ruled by the Mohammadean Kings before the reins were passed on to the Marathas and later the East India Company.

Lakkundi

Attraction: Famous for 101 stepped wells

Lakkundi is located about 12 kilometres from Gadag. Once the grand Capital city of the Chalukya empire, this city is famous for its 101 stepped wells known as Pushkarni or Kalyani. Lakkundi is also famous for a multitude of beautiful temples and the famous Jain Basadi. The  Archaeological Survey of India has maintained a rich collection of sculptures from the age of the Chalukyas in the sculpture gallery.

Magadi Bird Sanctuary

Attraction: Biodiversity and bird watching

Magadi Bird Sanctuary is one of the most popular biodiversity spots in the South. It is located about 26 kilometres from Gagad, created at the Magadi tank. Besides lush flora and fauna, one can also indulge in bird watching, a popular hobby for nature enthusiasts. Gadag is home to remarkable migratory and non-migratory birds and is a hotspot for spotters and bird enthusiasts. The sanctuary is well maintained and offers tourists and interesting visit when on a trip to this pretty city.

Entry Fee:

Citizens of India and visitors from the nations of  SAARC  which include Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan and Afghanistan and BIMSTEC Countries including Thailand and Myanmar are charged Rs. 5/- per head. Visitors from other countries are charged US $2 or Indian Rs. 100/- per head. Also, Gadag provides free entry for children up to 15 years.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of Gadag, home to beautiful Chalukya temples and monuments.

Gokarna - Pilgrim's Paradise At The Beaches Of Gokarna

A picturesque town in North Karnataka, Gokarna is a popular tourist destination as well as a pilgrim's paradise, as it is well endowed with temples and shrines dedicated to various deities. Bordered by coconut groves, palm trees, sandy shores and sapphire waters, this town is a beautiful destination to relax, unwind and indulge in local history and culture. One can visit Gokarna throughout the year. It is better to avoid the beaches during the rainy season. One can reach Gokarna via rail from Ankola, Karwar, Hubli, Kumta, Mangalore and Margao. For those looking to reach Gokarna by road, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation operates tourist buses from Hampi, Hospet, Bangalore and Mangalore. One can also drive down from Goa. Private buses also operate from Hampi and Hospet.  One can also choose to drive down from Goa. The nearest airport is in Goa, the Dabolim airport. 

Tourist places of interest in Gokarna include the following destinations.

Mahabaleshvara Temple

Attraction: Pilgrim Center The Mahabaleshvara Temple is one of the largest in Gokarna and is a popular pilgrimage spot for those travelling through Karnataka on a religious trip. The temple is located towards the Western end of town, towards the beach offering visitors to the temple a scenic view amid calm waters and sandy shores.

  

Maha Ganapati Temple

Attraction: Temple in honour of Lord Ganesha The Maha Ganapati Temple is a few metres away from the Shiva temple, constructed in honour of Lord Ganesha for his part in procuring the AtmaLinga from Ravana. For domestic and foreign tourists not familiar with the custom, one visits the Ganesha temple before the Shiva temple.

Koti Tirtha

Attraction: Artificial water tank

The Koti Tirtha is an artificial water tank used by pilgrims and priests for ritual bathing as it is considered holy by the locals. This sacred tank can be approached from the Venkateshwara temple, from the West.

There are five beaches in Gokarna, the Gokarna beach, The Om beach, the Kudle beach, Paradise beach and the Half-moon beach. While all the beaches are stunningly beautiful, the Gokarna beach is popular with pilgrims and the Kudle beach and Om beach is more popular with tourists. The Gokarna beach is a long narrow strip of sand, rock and sea, situated towards the edge of town. Kudle beach is a popular tourist spot offering visitors an idyllic vista of the deep blue waters of the Arabian sea, with five star hotels and resorts offering guests a fabulous view of the sea.

Om beach is further along the coast from Kudle and is christened for its unique shape , the auspicious Indian 'Aum', created by the rocky terrain of the beach. This beach can be visited throughout the year, except in the rainy season. One must be wary of strong currents while visiting these beaches. Om beach offers tourists budget yet cosy accommodation in the form of Bamboo or concrete beach huts. Half moon beach is a small but idyllic tourist destination, accessible through the Om beach. One is offered budget accommodation in the beach, with small huts and restaurants for guests visiting Half-Moon beach. Paradise beach is the farthest from the town of Gokarna. A beautiful tourist destination, ideal for honeymoon couples and those on an intimate getaway as this beach is very private and offers only basic facilities for those looking to soak up the sun and take a break from the daily hustle of civilization. There is no accommodation on the beach.

Entry Fee

No entry fee.

Plan a holiday in the picturesque town of Gokarna for a vacation you will never forget!

Hampi- Travel Back In Time To The Glorious Vijayanagara Empire At Hampi

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi is one of the most famous historical spots across the globe. This town in Karnataka has featured in popular English movies for its exquisite architectural offering, the pride of the vastly wealthy and advanced Vijayanagara empire. Hampi is located near Hospet town in Karnataka and served as the Capital of the revered Vijayanagara empire, a stronghold of the Kings of the age. Besides its main attraction, the superbly carved temples, the vast stretches of hills forming a magnificent backdrop to the temples adds beauty and splendour to this heritage town. Hampi is sanctified town and is revered in the eyes of devout Hindus as it is the Pampakshethra - home of Lady Pampa, daughter of Lord Brahma and venerable wife and companion to Lord Shiva. During the glory days of the old, Hampi was a thriving commercial hub of the Empire with an abundance of precious stones and gems, most popular for trading horses and diamonds!

A visitor's haven, this idyllic town is bordered by lush green valleys and rocky hills bordering the most beautiful temples in the South. Other important tourist spots include royal pavilions, treasury buildings, ancient markets, the palace remains, aquatic structures including public baths, bastions and public platforms. October to March is the best season for tourists looking to witness the splendour of this former Vijayanagara stronghold.

One can visit Hampi via air, road and rail. The nearest airport is Hubli which is connected to major cities across the country. The closest railway station is the Hospet junction about thirteen kilometres away from Hampi with frequent trains like Hyderabad, Goa and Bangalore arriving at this junction. One can reach Hampi by road through State transport buses that ply between Hampi and Hospet. Within Hampi, one can commute through taxis, motorcycles, cars and rickshaws.

Tourists can visit popular sightseeing spots and temples that include the Virupaksha temple, an exquisitely carved temple devoted to Hindu deities, the Vijaya Vittala temple dedicated to the Vijayanagar empire, the gigantic Queens Bath, a renowned public structure, the beautiful Lotus Mahal, the sacred Elephant stables, the world famous Hazara Rama temple demonstrating the architectural prowess of the craftsmen of the age, Archaeological museum, the storehouse of local artefacts and marvellous sculptures, the Ganesha sculptures, Pushkarni, the Lakshmimarasimha and the Badavalinga.  

Among the most famous temples in Hampi is the splendid Vijaya Vittala temple, known the world over not only for its magnificent carvings and sculptures but for the 56 musical pillars created to emanate 56 different musical notes covering different musical instruments! A battalion of archaeologists have yet to uncover the secret of this unique temple, catapulting this remarkable temple to the list of the  world's most incredible historical edifices.

The golden rays from a glorious sunset turn the temples of Hampi to creations of pure gold, a breathtaking sight for tourists and first time visitors.

Among the famous places to visit in Hampi include the Lakshmi Narasimha, a monolithic structure, the exquisite Stone chariot and the massive Ganesha statues.

Entry Fee:

For Indian citizens the rate is Rs. 10/- per head and there is no entry fee for the children below 12 years. 

For foreigners: $5 per head. This ticket is valid for one day to visit three monuments of the Vittala Temple, the Elephant stables and the Zenena Enclosure.

Entry fee to the Archaeological Museum is Rs.5/- per head.

Hampi is one of the most beautiful spots to visit in the South. Plan a visit to the majestic temples to appreciate fine art and architecture, not found anywhere else in the world!