Shimoga, presently known as Shivamogga, is the administrative headquarters of Shimoga district. Scenic hills, valleys, water bodies, dense forests, flora and fauna, forts, temples and historical places adorn Shimoga, making it a perfect tourist destination.
Shimoga district covers an area of about 10548 sq. kms. The western part of the district has superb tropical forests and some very pretty hilly areas. The eastern region is less dense but has several lakes and river valleys. The traveller to this district can enjoy trekking on the challenging landscape and visit to the historically rich spots.
The region has a long and colourful history dating back to the 3rd century AD when it was under the control of Satavahana dynasty.
In the 6th century it was a part of the empire of the Chalukyas of Badami. In the 7th century, it came under the rule of Jaina chieftain.
Shimoga is a colorful district with attractive landscape, waterfalls, green forests, river valleys and beautiful fields. The district is situated in the center of karnataka. It is located at a distance of 275 Kms from Bangalore, nestling at an altitude of 640 m above sea level. Tunga, Bhadra, Sharavathi, Varada and Kumadvathi rivers have made this district a rice bowl in the state.
According to history the name is derived from 'Shiva-Mukha' - Face of Shiva , 'Shivana-Mogu' - Nose of Shiva, 'Shivana-Mogge' - Buds of flowers meant for Lord Shiva. It is also believed that Sage Durvasa lived here, he is known for his temper. He used to keep on the oven a pot boiling with sweet herbs. Once, some cowherds happened to taste the sweet herbs, and called the place 'Sihi-Moge' (sweet pot).
Shivamogga is known as cultural capital of Karnataka.
Shimoga (meaning Face of Shiva), established by the Keladi rulers, enjoyed its golden days during the rule of Shivappa Nayaka in around 1600 AD.
In 1881, two early stone-age tools were discovered in a Shingle bed at Nyamati, at a short distance from the Tungabhadra river. They were bi-facial pebble tools made of quartzite, one with a rounded working edge and the other with a pointed working edge. Some Neolithic sites were noticed and also uncovered.
Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas and Vijayanagar Kings ruled this region. The Keladi Nayakas was the most important ruler among the ruling families. Shimoga became famous all over the world. From the late 17th century onwards, the city was a part of the Kingdom of Mysore until the independence of India in 1947, when Mysore merged into the Republic of India.
Air: The nearest airport is the Mangalore Airport (200 km).
Rail: Shimoga is connected by rail to Bangalore, Mysore and Hubli.
Road: Shimoga is well-connected by a network of roads to all major cities and towns of Karnataka, and important cities of nearby states.
Enjoy a comfortable stay while on a Tour to Shimoga at the hotels in Shimoga, offering a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity. Some of the major hotels in Shimoga are, Jewel Rock Hotel, Hotel Navarathna International, Sundar Ashraya, Hotel Mathura Residency, etc.
Sundar Ashraya, Boarding & Lodging, NT Road.
RN & Co., Shimoga.
Hotel Chandrika, BH Road, Shimoga.
PWD Inspection Bungalow And PWD Guest House.