Shimoga district, located almost centrally on the map of Karnataka, is a beautiful sight, dotted with waterfalls, swaying palms and lush paddy fields. Known as the rice bowl of the state, the luxuriant greens of the Shimoga district are inundated by the Tungabhadra, Sharavathi, Varada and Kumudavathi rivers. Shimoga was established by the Keladi rulers, and it has subsequently been home to some of the greatest Indian dynasties, including the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Gangas and others. Shimoga today is much more than a mere tourist destination. Its rich tradition in education, fine arts and culture remain deeply etched in its people and place. It is an enchanting place that welcomes people with the beautiful natural scenery of hills, hillocks and green dales, rivers and streams, dense forests, flora and fauna, forts, temples and historical places, sandalwood and spices, and tops it up with its mouth-watering cuisine.
Location of Shimoga District
Shimoga district is situated in the Malnad region of Karnataka state. It is bounded by the Sahyadri Ghats, and surrounding it on the North, East, West and South are Haveri, Davangere, Udupi-Karwar and Chikmagalur respectively. Shimoga district stands at a mean elevation of 640 metres above MSL. The district is spread over an area of 8477 Sq. Kms and ranks ninth in size among all the districts of the state. The district is just 274 Kms away from Bengaluru.
History of Shimoga District
Shimoga has been ruled by many famous Indian dynasties, including the Kadamba dynasty, the Ganga dynasty, the Chalukya dynasty, the Rashtrakuta dynasty, the Keladi and Vijaynagar Kings. It reached its pinnacle during the rule of Shivappa Nayaka around 1600 A.D. According to the legend, the place had the ashram of the famous sage `Durvasa` who was noted for his sharp of temper. He used to keep on the oven a pot boiling with sweet herbs. Once, some cowherds, who chanced upon it, tasted the beverage out of curiosity and called the place `Sihi- Moge` (Sweet Pot), which later came to be known as Shimoga.
Geography of Shimoga District
Shimoga district is situated between 13 degrees 27 minutes and 14 degrees and 39 minutes North latitude, and between 74 degrees 37 minutes and 75 degrees 52 minutes East longitudes. The eastern part of district comes under the semi-malnad zone with plain topography and occasional chains of hills covered with semi-deciduous vegetation. Shimoga is the origin of the Kali River and the Gangavathi, Sharavathi and Tadadi rivers. The other major rivers which flow through the district are the Tunga River, the Bhadra River and Varada. The rivers Tunga and Bhadra meet at a place called Koodalgi in Shimoga district. Agumbe, a small place, known for its highest rainfall (8000 mm per annum) in Southern India is part of this land. The major crops grown here are paddy, coconut, ragi, pepper, areca and sugarcane. Shimoga district is rich in flora and fauna, with dense forest and green shrub jungles.
Education in Shimoga District
Educational scenario is bright in Shimoga District. There are many educational institutions which cater to the educational needs of the District. Each habitation with a population of 200 or more has a primary school. There are There are Higher Primary Schools, High Schools and Junior Colleges which are easily accessible from the rural areas also. Each taluk headquarter has a Degree College as well. For the purposes of higher and technical education, there is found here an Engineering College, Dental College and Polytechnic. A University centre is also situated in the district.
Tourism in Shimoga District
Shimoga district abounds in a number of places of natural beauty, and is a hotspot for tourists visiting the state. Located here is the world famous Jog Falls, the most thrilling spectacle in the entire Western region of Karnataka and the highest waterfall in India. The sight of the Sharavati taking a leap into the chasm from a height of 900 feet is most spectacular. Other places of interest here include the Vanake-Abbey Falls, Achakanya Falls, Hidlamane Falls, Tunga Anecut, B.R.P. Dam and the Linganamakki Dam.
How to Reach Shimoga District
Shimoga is well connected by road and rail to the major cities of Karnataka and neighbouring states. One can travel either by air or surface. By Air, the nearest point would be Mangalore Airport. From here on one will have to travel by road to reach Shimoga. There is also a way to reach Shimoga by rail route from Bengaluru, Mysore and Hubli.
By Air- Mangalore Airport is the nearest Airport - 200 Kms
By Rail- Shimoga is connected by Rail to Bengaluru, Mysore and Hubli
By Road- Shimoga city is well connected by road to all major cities, towns and important cities of neighbouring states.
