Places To Visit Near Thirthahalli: Your Ultimate Guide To Secret Gems Nearby

View of Tunga dam, on of the best places to visit near Thirthahalli, Karnataka

In the Karnataka, India, district of Shimoga, there is a Panchayat Town called Thirthahalli. As the seat of the taluk, it is situated on the bank of the Tunga River. The town is well-known for its temples, educational facilities, and scenic surroundings. There are multiple places to visit near Thirthahalli and it is renowned for its Rama Thirtha temple. Thirthahalli is a well-liked pilgrimage destination. Numerous well-known Kannada writers reside in the town, which boasts a strong cultural legacy. For people who are interested in literature, history, or the outdoors, Thirthahalli is a must-see location. The town is surrounded by hills and lush, green forests, and it enjoys a favourable temperature.

10 Places To Visit Near Thirthahalli

The charming town of Thirthahalli in Karnataka is encircled by a wide range of sites that combine adventure and natural beauty. Here are the 10 best places to visit near Thirthahalli:

1. Nagara Fort

 View of Nagara Fort,  surrounded by lush greenery

Photo: Aravind Nagaraj / Wikimedia Commons

Nagara Fort is a historic village in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India. It is 17 kilometres from Hosanagara or 84 kilometres from Shimoga. The fort is built on a small hill, surrounded by lush green forests and a lake. The fort is said to have been built by the Keladi rulers in the 16th century. The fort is also known as Nagara Kote.

Major Attractions: Remains of the palace, Guard rooms, Wells, Storage facilities, Watch tower,
Best Time To Visit: October and November.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Sagara City Railway Station

2. Shivamogga Zoo And Safari

Tiger spotted at Shivamogga Zoo and Safari, a place to visit near Thirthahalli

Photo: Harikrishnan18 / Wikimedia Commons

Close to Thirthahalli in Shimoga is the wildlife refuge area, where lion and tiger safaris are experienced. It covers 250 hectares and is home to many creatures such as tigers, leopards, and lions. Take a guided tour to witness the creatures in their native environments. The safari, which opened in 1988, has expanded and now includes amenities like food and drink.

Major Attractions: Lion and Tiger Enclosures, Leopard Enclosures, Guided Tours, Wildlife Viewing, Natural Habitat
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip To Visit: 4 – 5 hours
Nearest Airport: Huballi Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Shimoga Town Railway Station

3. Tunga Anicut Dam

Tunga Anicut Dam, a place to visit near Thirthahalli, offers pretty sunset views

Photo: Haxplorer / Wikimedia Commons

In Karnataka, in the district of Shimoga, there is a gravity dam called the Tunga Anicut Dam on the Tunga River. It was constructed in 1953 and is a major irrigation and hydroelectric power source. The dam has a storage capacity of 4.37 billion cubic metres and measures 244 metres in length and 134.5 metres in height. Travellers frequent this location, particularly in the monsoon season and during sunset to witness stunning views of nature.

Major Attractions: The creation of hydroelectric power, boating, sports irrigation, scenic beauty
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip To Visit: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Shimoga Town Railway Station

4. Gajanur Dam

Scenic view of the Gajanur Dam, one of the best places to visit near Thirthahalli

Photo: Hareesh ks / Wikimedia Commons

The Gajanur Dam is a gravity dam on the Tunga River in the Shimoga district. It was constructed in 1984 and is a major irrigation and hydroelectric power source. The dam has a 1.25 billion cubic metre storage capacity and measures 62.5 metres in height and 442 metres in length. With its picturesque views and water sports, it’s a well-liked tourist destination, particularly in the monsoon season.

Best Time To Visit: November to February
Ideal Trip To Visit: 1 – 2 days

5. Kuppalli

The famous Kuvempu House at Kuppalli, an offbeat attraction for an escape

Photo: Chaitra. B. H. / Wikimedia Commons

Kuppalli is a scenic village in Shimoga district, Karnataka, India. It’s situated on the banks of the Tunga River and is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. The village is surrounded by lush green forests, hills, and waterfalls, making it a popular tourist destination. Kuppalli is also the birthplace of the renowned Kannada poet, Kuvempu, and is home to the Kuvempu Museum, which showcases his life and works.

Major Attractions: Kuvempu’s House, Kuvempu Museum, Tunga River, Waterfalls
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip To Visit: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Shimoga Town Railway Station

6. Koodli

A temple at Koodli, an ancient palace to visit near Thirthahalli

Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons

Koodli, which is a small mediaeval village in Karnataka’s Shimoga District, is also spelled Kudli or Kudali. The place is situated where the Tunga and Bhadra rivers converge to form the Tungabhadra River and is officially the Sangam Point. Prior to the fourteenth century, the settlement was a significant town and a site of pilgrimage, but it was devastated during the Islamic invasion of the southern regions.

Major Attractions: Ancient Temples, Koodli Sangameshwara Temple, Scenic Surroundings, Cultural Heritage, Tunga River
Best Time To Visit: December to February
Ideal Trip To Visit: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Shimoga Town Railway Station

7. Kavaledurga

 The ruins of a Jain Temple at Kavaledurga are surrounded by lush greenery

Photo: KGBedits / Wikimedia Commons

The Nineteenth-century Kavaledurga Fort is located near Thirthahalli, Shimoga, Karnataka. It served as the Keladi kingdom’s fourth and final capital. The fort is encircled by thick forests and is located 1541 metres above sea level. It has a watch tower, temples, a ruined palace site, and three lines of fortifications. September through January is the ideal time of year to visit.

Major Attractions: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Queens’ Bathing Pond, the Old Palace Ruins, the Watch Tower on a Little Hillock, the Fort Walls, and the Architecture
Best Time To Visit: September to January
Ideal Trip To Visit: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kundapura Railway Station

8. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

Avian Species at Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary,ideal spot for wildlife lovers

Photo: Karunakar Rayker / Wikimedia Commons

In the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India, the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small, lovely island in the River Tunga that is about 30 to 32 kilometres from Shimoga town. During the peak season, a variety of migrating species visit the island, making it a popular place for bird viewing. This place is a prominent bird watching area and is surrounded by a forest. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is an important bird nesting site and has more than 5000 bird species.

Major Attractions: Elephant camp, Numerous bird species
Best Time To Visit: July to October
Ideal Trip To Visit: Day excursion and overnight stay
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Bhadravati Railway Station

9. Jog Falls

 Cascading water at Jog Falls, one of the majestic places to visit near Thirthahalli

Photo: Arkadeep Meta / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Jog Falls, also called Gerosoppa Falls, is a magnificent waterfall. With a drop of 253 metres, it is one of India’s tallest waterfalls and is situated close to the Western Ghats. The Sharavathi River formed the falls, which are encircled by verdant trees. The monsoon season, when the falls are at their peak and produce an amazing display, is the ideal time to go.

Best Time To Visit: July to September
Ideal Trip To Visit: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Talguppa Railway Station

10. Agumbe

A peaceful road to Agumbe surrounded by forest

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

The village of Agumbe, located in Karnataka’s Shimoga district, is well-known for its abundant rainforests and rich wildlife. Because of its heavy rains, it is frequently referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India”. The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, which carries out studies on the area’s distinctive ecology, is located in the settlement. Agumbe is a well-liked location for trekking and photography due to its picturesque scenery and varied fauna.

Major Attractions: Onake Abbi Waterfalls, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Jogi Gundi Falls, Kundadri Hill, Kudremukh National Park, Achakanya Falls, and Sunset View Point
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Ideal Trip To Visit: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station

There are multiple places to visit near Thirthahalli, like the tranquil Sri Rameshwara Temple, the storied Kavaledurga Fort, and the gorgeous Mani Dam. Savour the regional cuisine, have fun on your vacation, and enjoy the stunning views of the Western Ghats. Now encourage your loved ones to arrange a trip to Thirthahalli by telling them about your experiences there. Make a reservation now, with a Package of TripXL.

Cover Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

There are multiple places to visit near Shimoga. The Shivappa Nayaka Palace and Museum is one of Shimogga's numerous fascinating attractions.
Jog Falls, Kunchikal Falls, and Barkana Falls are a few of the well-known waterfalls close to Thirthahalli.
The city has a rich past, and some of the most well-known sites are the temples of Keladi and Ikkeri. Other noteworthy sites are Aghoreshwara and Kedareshvara.
Popular trekking destinations close to Thirthahalli are Kavaledurga Fort and the Kodachadri Hills. These are ancient sites and must-visit spots near Thirthahalli.
The Linganamakki and Bhadra dams are two of the well-known dams close to Thirthahalli. It is recommended to watch sunsets and sunrises at this place.

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