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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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 16^th century architecture is also nearby.